You can't claim the value of your wages for hours spent helping out at your favorite nonprofit. Nor can you deduct the value of a project you created, such as a poster you designed for the charity. But you CAN deduct other costs associated with charity work. This includes mileage in connection with the group's work (claim on Schedule A at the rate of 14 cents/mile). Read more ...
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Know someone in your neighborhood like Kate?
This video called "Cup of Sugar" was a Finalist in this year's American Red Cross MOFILM competition. It shows a generous neighbor - a woman named Kate - who people always come to for things like a cup of sugar. Are you like Kate? Do you know someone like her?
Love the line at the end, "Help out before we run out."
Monday, March 28, 2011
Our Chapter's Disaster Services - Always on the ready!
American Red Cross disaster assistance is always free of charge. Victims pay nothing. That is why donations to our chapter are critical. It is only with gifts from our generous friends and neighbors that we are able to provide immediate aid to help families take the first steps toward recovery. By making a gift today, you can help us be ready to respond the minute tragedy strikes.
CLICK here to give now!
On behalf of those we serve, thank you.
Your American Red Cross Lower Bucks County Chapter
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Honoring Heroes in Our Community
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| Miss Pennsylvania was even on hand to join in the celebration. |
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
She's A Real Hero! Meet Marnie Wolk
Animal Rescue Hero: Marnie Wolk
Furlong, Pennsylvania
Throughout 2010, Marnie has operated Save The Cats, Inc., an animal rescue group for cats and kittens. Undeterred by practical hurdles, she is the driving force behind the organization and make sure each rescued cat has food, water, medical care and is properly socialized. Marnie partnered with the PetSmart in Newtown, Pennsylvania to guarantee each cat receives a loving home.
Marnie’s indelible spirit and kind heart truly makes her a Real Hero in the community. Save The Cats, Inc. is proud to have her as their leader and Centennial School District is fortunate to have her as a teacher.
Marnie has been rescuing animals since the age of nine. When not working with Save the Cats, Marnie is a mom to two beautiful girls, wife to Gary and 3rd grade teacher.
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| Our Chapter's Real Heroes Breakfast will be held Thursday, March 24, 2011 at the Belle Voir Manor in Benselem. If you'd like to attend and help us honor local heroes, please visit our web site and where you can order tickets - http://www.redcrosslbcc.org/index.html |
Monday, March 21, 2011
Mitch Shapiro is a Real Hero!
Good Samaritan Adult Hero: Mitch Shapiro
Warminster, Pennsylvania
On March 7, 2010, Mitch was watching his son play in the Warminster Basketball Association’s championship game when he saw Coach John Cochrane collapse and fall backwards. Mitch ran to the Coach and began CPR when he remembered seeing an Automated External Defibrillator in the hallway of the school. Mitch rushed to the AED, ran back to the gym and began attaching the leads. A heart surgeon later said that Mitch had attached the leads in just the right spot and just in time.
Mitch’s quick action truly makes him a Real Hero in the community. Warminster Fire Company is proud to have him as a member.
Mitch is currently the Chief of the Warminster Fire Company and enjoys karate and coaching baseball.
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| Our Chapter's Real Heroes Breakfast will be held Thursday, March 24, 2011 at the Belle Voir Manor in Benselem. If you'd like to attend and help us honor local heroes, please visit our web site and where you can order tickets - http://www.redcrosslbcc.org/index.html |
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Meet Today's Youth Hero: Zayyan Saunders
Good Samaritan Youth Hero: Zayyan Saunders
Bristol, Pennsylvania
On March 13, 2010, Zayyan was enjoying a Saturday morning in his home when he noticed his grandmother lying on the bed, unconscious. When Zayyan couldn’t rouse her, he immediately called 9-1-1 and explained the situation to the dispatcher. The paramedics arrived on scene and were able to treat his grandmother’s diabetic shock.
Zayyan’s clear-headed demeanor and calmness in the face of a scary situation makes him a Real Hero in the community. Bristol Township School District is proud to have him as a student.
Zayyan is in 2nd grade and enjoys playing basketball.
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| Our Chapter's Real Heroes Breakfast will be held Thursday, March 24, 2011 at the Belle Voir Manor in Benselem. If you'd like to attend and help us honor local heroes, please visit our web site and where you can order tickets - http://www.redcrosslbcc.org/index.html |
Saturday, March 19, 2011
We're At Oxford Valley Mall Today!
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| Our information desk is on the first floor of Oxford Valley Mall, near the escalators |
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| Michael, volunteer - standing in front of our information desk |
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| Gina C., volunteer |
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| Erwin M., volunteer |
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| Free handouts |
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| More free handouts |
Watch this video to see what our volunteers at the information desk have to say. And thanks to all who stop by or will stop by.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Friday's Heroes
Fire Rescue Hero: Southampton Fire Company No. 1 - Engine 2
and Northampton Township Volunteer Fire Company - Rescue 73 and Tower 3
Richboro, Pennsylvania
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| Southhampton |
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| Northhampton |
On March 24, 2010, a home on Carolyn Drive was on fire. As the first unit on the scene, Rescue 73 began search and rescue operations. They proceeded to the second floor of the home with a 1 ¾ hose line to begin interior fire suppression efforts. Along with Tower 3 and Engine 2, the crews were able to find a 17 month old infant and four year old toddler, both in cardiac arrest. After removing the children to safety, they returned to the rapidly deteriorating home to search for others. The cres found the children’s mother, while facing extreme smoke and heat conditions, and were able to also remove her from the home.
These courageous actions and teamwork, in extreme circumstances, makes each member a Real Hero in the community. Northampton Township is proud to have Russell Davis, Ed Gorton, Ryan Hunsicker, Ken Moore, Nick Pasqualone, Thomas Richmond, Robert Sutherland, Steve Szymanski, Greg Waters and Steve Young on call with the Northampton Township Volunteer Fire Company. Southampton Township is proud to have Harold Card, Kenneth Kline, William Martin, Glenn McKenney, Mark Rivera and Mark Showmaker on call with the Southampton Fire Company No. 1.
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| Our Chapter's Real Heroes Breakfast will be held Thursday, March 24, 2011 at the Belle Voir Manor in Benselem. If you'd like to attend and help us honor local heroes, please visit our web site and where you can order tickets - http://www.redcrosslbcc.org/index.html |
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Meet Thursday's Real Hero: Joseph MacAdams
Good Samaritan Adult Hero: Joseph MacAdams
Bensalem, Pennsylvania
On December 15, 2010, Joseph was traveling with his grand-daughter when he saw flames coming out of a home. Upon hearing that a woman was trapped inside the burning structure, Joseph jumped into action by knocking down the fence to gain access to the rear door. He reached through a broken window, suffering personal injury, before finding the door was dead bolted. When the injured homeowner handed him the key, he valiantly entered the home and helped her to safety.
This courageous act makes Joseph a Real Hero in the community. Bensalem Township is proud to have him as a resident.
Joseph has been married to his wonderful wife, Eileen, for 43 years! They have 3 children and 9 grandchildren. Joseph enjoys fishing, hunting, golf, gardening and woodworking.
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| Our Chapter's Real Heroes Breakfast will be held Thursday, March 24, 2011 at the Belle Voir Manor in Benselem. If you'd like to attend and help us honor local heroes like Rick and Daniel, please visit our web site and where you can order tickets - http://www.redcrosslbcc.org/index.html |
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Meet Wednesday's Good Samaritan Youth Hero: Sal Luongo
Good Samaritan Youth Hero: Sal Luongo
Warrington, Pennsylvania
On September 27, 2010, Sal noticed Jonathan Cooper, a fellow student, was in respiratory distress. Sal recognized the signs of an asthma and kept Jonathan calm and encouraged him to breathe. Upon returning to the school, Sal carried Jonathan off the bus to medical personnel.
On December 6, 2010, Jonathan was having another asthma attack while riding the school bus. Sal gained control of the bus, put Jonathan in his lap, sat Jonathan straight up, and assisted with the inhaler. While pulling into the school parking lot, Jonathan stopped breathing. Sal carried him to the waiting ambulance.
Sal’s calm demeanor and maturity truly make him a Real Hero in the community. Pen Ryn Catering is proud to have him as an employee and the community is thankful he is a responsible student at Tamanend Middle School.
Sal enjoys skateboarding, snowboarding and hanging out with his friends. He hopes to be a professional skateboarder or join the Army after graduating high school.
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| Our Chapter's Real Heroes Breakfast will be held Thursday, March 24, 2011 at the Belle Voir Manor in Benselem. If you'd like to attend and help us honor local heroes like Rick and Daniel, please visit our web site and where you can order tickets - http://www.redcrosslbcc.org/index.html |
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Dynamic Duo: Meet Rick J. Hazelett & Daniel Regan
Good Samaritan Adult Heroes: Rick J. Hazelett & Daniel Regan
Langhorne, Pennsylvania
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| Rick J. Hazelett |
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| Daniel Regan |
On May 1, 2010, Rick and Dan were enjoying an evening with friends when they heard a loud noise and saw an explosion. Rick grabbed a fire extinguisher and both he and Dan ran to the car accident. Inside the overturned vehicle, they saw hands pressed against the windows and heard screams for help. After quickly assessing the situation, Rick tried to contain the fire while Dan smashed the rear window with a tire iron and removed the passengers. The duo then provided first aid until local emergency services arrived.
These courageous acts make Rick Hazelett and Daniel Regan Real Heroes in the community. Peruzzi Motors is proud to have them as employees and the community is thankful they are part of the Langhorne-Middletown Fire Company.
When not fighting fires, Rick enjoys sports, fishing and working out. He has been a member of the Langhorne-Middletown Fire Company since 2004. Dan enjoys sports and going to the gym.
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| Our Chapter's Real Heroes Breakfast will be held Thursday, March 24, 2011 at the Belle Voir Manor in Benselem. If you'd like to attend and help us honor local heroes like Rick and Daniel, please visit our web site and where you can order tickets - http://www.redcrosslbcc.org/index.html |
Check back tomorrow on our blog for more Real Heroes ...
Monday, March 14, 2011
A Hero A Day: Officer Thomas DiCampello
Monday's Law Enforcement Hero is ... Officer Thomas DiCampello
Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania
On January 17, 2010, Officer DiCampello’s quick action and determination saved the life of Heather Carr who was trapped in her vehicle. He quickly answered the call, noticed the driver side of the car engulfed in flames, climbed through the passenger window and removed the driver. Moments later the entire vehicle was in flames. As a result of this courageous act, the community is honored to recognize Officer DiCampello as a law enforcement Real Hero and is thankful for his service to the Penndel Borough Police Department.
When not working, Tom enjoys quading, fishing, snowboarding and spending time with his wife, Danielle.
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| Our Chapter's Real Heroes Breakfast will be held Thursday, March 24, 2011 at the Belle Voir Manor in Benselem. If you'd like to attend and help us honor local heroes like Office Thomas DiCampello, please visit our web site and where you can order tickets - http://www.redcrosslbcc.org/index.html |
Check back tomorrow on our blog for more Real Heroes ...
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Photo From The Recent Flooding in Our Area
This photo is from our Chapter's friend, Patricia Sims. It's shows flooding from the recent rains on West College Ave and River Road in Yardley, Pa. Thanks for sharing, Patricia. We're glad you're ok.
Remember:
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
The American Red Cross Urges Lower Bucks to Prepare Now for Floods
The American Red Cross of Lower Bucks County encourages the public to stay informed about flooding in their area, and to take precautions before flooding occurs.
• How to prepare for flooding:
• MAKE A PLAN so you know where to go if you need to evacuate. Plan ahead for the possibility of becoming separated from your loved ones by choosing an out-of-town contact that each person can contact should a disaster occur. Plan on using the Red Cross Safe and Well web site, accessible through www.redcross.org.
• STAY INFORMED. Know what to do if flooding occurs
• Be ready with an EMERGENCY SUPPLIES KIT, which includes:
o First aid kit and essential medications.
o Battery-powered NOAA Weather radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.
o Canned food and can opener.
o Bottled water (at least one gallon of water per person per day to last at least 3 days).
o Family documents (wills, passports, insurance policies, deeds, etc.) in a portable, waterproof and fireproof container as part of your kit.
• Heeding Flood Warnings: Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated flood information. A flood WATCH means flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area. A food WARNING means flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.
o When a Flood WATCH is issued – Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home. Fill your car’s gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.
o When a Flood WARNING is issued – Listen to local radio and TV stations for information and advice. If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible. Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment’s notice.
o When a Flash Flood WARNING is issued – or if you think it has already started, evacuate immediately. You may have only seconds to escape. Act quickly! Move to higher ground. Do not drive around barricades. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground. If you experience flooding and need help, call your local authorities immediately.
• Relocating During Flood Warnings: Stay away from flood waters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankle, stop, turn around and go another way. If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.
“By preparing together for floods, we can make our families safer and our communities stronger,” said Steven Huizar, Director of Emergency Services for the American Red Cross Lower Bucks County Chapter. “We can help you and your family create a flood preparedness plan now, before our community is threatened by excessive rainfall.”
For more information on flood preparedness, contact the Lower Bucks County Chapter of the American Red Cross at (215) 946-4870, visit www.redcross.org or www.cruzrojaamericana.org or call 1-800 RED CROSS. We urge you to share these Red Cross flood preparedness tips with every member of your household, because the best protection is to be prepared ahead of time.
About the American Red Cross Lower Bucks County Chapter: The American Red Cross Lower Bucks County Chapter shelters, feeds and counsels victims of disaster; provides blood for area hospitals; teaches lifesaving skills; supports military members and their families; and operates the County’s only emergency homeless shelter. The American Red Cross is a charity, not a government agency, and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its humanitarian mission. Donations to support these vital services can be mailed to American Red Cross-Lower Bucks County Chapter at 1909 Veterans Highway, Levittown, Pa 19056 or by calling Jane E. Ward, Director of Development at 215-946-4870 ext 101 or via our Web Site www.redcrosslbcc.org.
Help people affected by disasters like the potential flooding, by donating to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. On those rare occasions when donations exceed Red Cross expenses for a specific disaster, contributions are used to prepare for and serve victims of other disasters. Your gift enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling, and other assistance to victims of all disasters. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P. O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org.
Plan To Give, Give To Plan
This mission statement guides all Red Crossers, whether volunteers or staffers. But how does it apply to our donors, the life-blood of our organization?
The simple act of including American Red Cross Lower Bucks County Chapter in your estate plan follows the 3 “Ps”: Prevent, Prepare and Provide.
Merely by taking the time to formulate an estate plan, which typically includes a will or trust, you prevent your loved ones from additional distress at a difficult time. Knowing your wishes can be of help and comfort to those most dear to you. As the sad events of Hurricane Katrina and the Bucks County Yardley floods have shown us, it is not only the elderly who need to concern themselves with an estate plan. Our Red Cross family service workers hear daily of the added anguish a spouse suffers because the young couple just never got around to making a will.
Be prepared. It’s not only the Boy Scout motto. Preparation for the distribution of our estate and the care and support of dependants is something we can all accomplish. We have learned as a country how crucial it is to be prepared for all types of emergencies and disasters. Take this to heart on a more personal level and place “Review and/or make a will” on your 2011 To Do list.
Provide for loved ones and trusted organizations, like your local American Red Cross Lower Bucks County Chapter. All Red Cross assistance is free of charge through the generosity of the American people. Planned gifts, such as a bequest in an estate plan, help our chapter provide relief and sustain our operations and services. A gift at death can often be at a more significant level than one during life, when the demands on income are unknown.
Prevent, prepare, provide. A thoughtful gift in your estate to our Chapter can fulfill the mission of the American Red Cross right here in Lower Bucks County.
For additional information, please contact Jane E. Ward, Director of Development and Planned Giving at 215-946-4870 ext 101.
Monday, March 7, 2011
This is our NEW Blog!
This blog is currently under construction. The first post will be coming soon!
Thanks for stopping by. Before you leave, become a Follower so you'll receive our posts as soon as they start and be up to the minute with the American Red Cross Lower Bucks County Chapter.
In the meantime, you can visit our web site to learn more about our chapter, how you can get involved, and upcoming events.
Thanks for stopping by. Before you leave, become a Follower so you'll receive our posts as soon as they start and be up to the minute with the American Red Cross Lower Bucks County Chapter.
In the meantime, you can visit our web site to learn more about our chapter, how you can get involved, and upcoming events.
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