The Central Bucks Parent Network is a CB Cares initiative that promotes and encourages communication between parents and their children. The goal is to help mobilize a community-wide commitment to cultivate positive values and behaviors in our youth by building awareness, connecting families, educating the public, and conveying a consistent message about the risks of substance abuse.

The CB Parent Network provides parent support and education through:

• The Backpack Newsflash, CB Cares’ monthly newsletter
• parent discussion groups such as Parent Rap and Guiding Good Choices
• Parent Connetions Educational Cable TV Programs and
• Parent Education Workshops

Through these programs and other activities, CB Cares and its partners are working together to improve family communication, thus helping to build competent, caring, and resilient youth.

Programs
The Backpack Newsflash
Parent Rap
Guiding Good Choices
Parent Connections Cable TV Programs (CBTV)
Parent Education Workshops

The Backpack Newsflash
This monthly newsletter is “The Voice of CB Cares.” Each month over 14,000 copies are printed and distributed to all elementary and middle school students in the Central Bucks School District. High school students and their parents read it electronically on the CBSD website or their own school’s website. This now-familiar newsletter contains information about all of CB Cares programs and additionally includes information about other
family-oriented community programs. Monthly parenting tips and
information on local and national youth issues and trends also appear in the Newsflash.
For current and back issues, click here!
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Parent Rap
Parent Rap is a monthly parent discussion group facilitated by a local Psychologist, Dr. Barry Ginsberg, with a CB Cares staff member and local law enforcement representative in attendance as co-facilitators. Parent Rap is a “drop-in” meeting, where parents can bring their current parenting issues/questions and get answers and suggestions from all present. This discussion group takes place at CB Cares offices.
To view upcoming Parent Rap sessions, click here!
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Guiding Good Choices
Guiding Good Choices, a researched-based, 5-session program for parents of children in grades 4-8 (ages 9-14), focuses on developing strong families. Parents learn specific strategies for promoting healthy behaviors in their children, thus reducing risks that correlate with adolescent health and behavior problems. Parents learn how to strengthen family bonds, set a clear position on drugs, teach children skills they will need to make healthy choices, and increase children’s involvement in the family. This program is offered in CB Cares offices several times a year.

Says one recent attendee: "Guiding Good Choices was an excellent first step in readying us for the approaching teenage years. We now have the tools to address important issues with our son (and a few years later, our daughter). And it's not all about major issues and crises - this class showed us the importance of regularly communicating the small, daily stuff. For if we fail to keep a close relationship with our kids now when things are fairly easy, it will be that much more difficult to communicate when it really counts. The sessions definitely provided practical guidelines."
New sessions coming in Spring 2009!
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Parent Connections Educational Cable TV Programs (CBTV)
Parent Connections, a program of CB Cares and The Central Bucks School District, has been shown on a local Comcast cable channel since July, 2005. Shows are taped at Central Bucks South High School under the supervision of Mr. Jim Bunn, with high school students serving as the crew. Shows take various forms, including a host-guest format, demonstrations, and roundtable discussions. All shows, though, focus on parenting or youth issues. Shows are shown multiple times throughout a given month and at various times of the day. This cable tv medium is a great way to reach many individuals who might not be able to attend some of the other CB Cares parenting
programs. Parent Connections is currently broadcast on Comcast Channel 28 and Verizon Fios Channel 40.

Where:  Your Family Room - turn to Comcast 28 or Verizon FiOs 40

When:   Tuesday evenings, 7:30 and 9:30 p.m.                Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. or Sundays at 1:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Topic:    CB Drug Free Project and the new “Don’t Pollute Yourself” art mural; CB Cares wrap-up of the year and a sneak peek of the year ahead.

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Parent Education Workshops
CB Cares offers Home and School Associations, school counselors, and other community organizations a selection of parent education programs, ranging from drug and alcohol issues, to stress reduction in the family, discipline, backpack safety, homework tips, etc. These offerings are 45 minutes – 1 hour in length and are presented by professionals and agencies from our community. Sessions can take place at HAS meetings or other times of the day. A nominal fee is charged for these programs.

Parent Education Workshops 2008-2009

PARENTING 
Should I Be Concerned?
Effective Communication 
Men, Women, and Money: Can't we all just get along? 
Authoritative-Reciprocal Parenting: A Constructive Approach 
Discipline That Works 
Structuring for Success 
Using Positive Psychology to Be the Best Parent That You Can Be 
50 Wonderful Ways to Be a Single Parent Family 
Stepping Together: How to Make Second Marriages Work 
Adolescence Today is Nothing Like it Was: A Workshop for Parents 
Advanced Parenting Skills for 21st Century Kids 
The Secret Life of the Teenage Brain 
Cyber Bullying 
Keeping Kids Safe – Talking About Touching 
Sticks, Stones and Words Can Forever Hurt Me: Understanding Relational Aggression 
Protecting Our Children from Sexual Predators 

DRUG & ALCOHOL ISSUES
Talking to your kids about drugs 
Underage Alcohol Use 
Prescription Drug Misuse 
Inhalants 
What Happens if My Child Gets Cited for Underage Drinking

Parent Resources

HEALTH & WELLNESS
Men, Women, and Stress: Why are we so different? 
Lifting the Grey Cloud - Preventing Youth Suicide 
Self-mutilation 
The Choking Game 
Is It Safe? Identifying and Managing Concussions in Active Youth 
Backpack Safety 101  
You, or Someone You Know 
Friend or Foe? Talking To Your Children About Healthy Friendship 
Controlling vs. Caring: Do You Know Who Your Child is Dating? 

EDUCATION / SCHOOL
40 Assets: 101 
College Funding Strategies: Make funding college a non-issue and enjoy the life you deserve 
SAT/ACT Prep: Prepare/ Achieve / Succeed 
Meeting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted Child 
Homework- A Parent’s Survival Guide 
Creating a Bully-Free School   

PRESENTER BIOS
Individuals
Organizations


PARENTING

Should I Be Concerned? 
Parents often question what is “normal” development versus a “phase,” versus behavior that indicates a more serious problem in their children and adolescents. This workshop is designed to give parents tools they can use to help answer these questions and steps they can take if follow-up appears warranted. Presented by Reb Brooks, Psychologist.
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Effective Communication  
This workshop covers specific techniques for trying to communicate with children/ adolescents (workshop adjusted to audience interest area). It covers such areas as when to push and when to back off and how to avoid endless lectures that get nowhere. Effective limit setting will also be addressed. Presented by Reb Brooks, Psychologist.
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Men, Women, and Money: Can't we all just get along?   Everyone knows that couples fight about money. In fact, it is the number one cause of arguments in marriage.  The stress and tension this causes can easily have a trickle down effect on children, what we are teaching them about money, and what they will then bring into their own relationships.  Men and women approach money issues differently based partially on some basic gender differences in how we think, plan, learn, and react.  Learn how to more effectively communicate with your spouse about money and finances in a productive, rather than contentious, way.  Presented by Pamela J. Ginsberg, Ph.D., Psychologist.
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Authoritative-Reciprocal Parenting: A Constructive Approach We want our children to feel good about themselves, be responsible, respectful of themselves and others, have good relationships, be successful in what they choose to do in life, and be good family members. Find out about Authoritative-Reciprocal Parenting. It is one of the best approaches according to the research. Presented by Dr  Barry G.Ginsberg , Psychologist.
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Discipline That Works  
Discipline is a frequent topic of conversation for parents. Take home principles and methods that work.  Presented by Dr. Barry G. Ginsberg, Psychologist.
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Structuring for Success  
Too often parents invoke rules and consequences when the problem may lie in our unrealistic expectations. Structuring for success achieves far better results. Presented by Dr. Barry G. Ginsberg, Psychologist.
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Using Positive Psychology to Be the Best Parent
That You Can Be  
Recent research has made it clear: positive psychology is the way to go. Learn how to implement these principles in your parenting and your life. Presented by Dr. Barry G. Ginsberg, Psychologist.
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50 Wonderful Ways to Be a Single Parent Family  
So often single parenting is seen negatively when it can be a joy for all family members. This workshop is drawn from my book: 50 Wonderful Ways to Be a Single-Parent Family (New Harbingers, 2003). Let’s explore these wonderful ways! Presented by Dr. Barry G. Ginsberg, Psychologist.
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Stepping Together: How to Make Second Marriages Work   Second marriages are difficult especially when children from the first one are involved. Learn how to avoid the traps. Presented by Dr. Barry G. Ginsberg, Psychologist.
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Adolescence Today is Nothing Like it Was:
A Workshop for Parents  
This workshop is a collaborative pursuit on how to cope with an overwhelming experience--raising teens-- with a few guidelines to help us. Since clear answers are often elusive, we will work together to find ways to stay grounded. Presented by Dr. Barry G. Ginsberg, Psychologist.
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Advanced Parenting Skills for 21st Century Kids  
Today’s children require a different parenting approach than what our parents (or their parents!) used. This workshop discusses effective approaches that will bring peace and harmony to your home! Presented by Dr. James Stone, Clinical Neuropsychologist and Certified School Psychologist.
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The Secret Life of the Teenage Brain  
Do you ask yourself, “Where did my child go?”  The teenage years are a time of tremendous growth, eating and sleeping! Why the sudden change? How can we all survive this? Come learn about brain development in your teen and how to live to see the other side. Presented by Dr James Stone, Clinical Neuropsychologist and Certified School Psychologist.
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Cyber Bullying   
Do you know about MySpace.com or other social networking sites?  How many people know your child’s password?  Has someone impersonated your child online? Has your child been entered into a poll or contest without his/her knowledge? The Internet has transformed the landscape of children’s social lives.  Cliques are moving from lunchrooms to live chats and blogs.  Interactive technologies are being used to bully peers, and strangers now have a new format to access students.  Cyber Bullying teaches parents effective responses and strategies to help their children handle this form of bullying. Presented by Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA). *financial contributions may be made to their organization.
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Keeping Kids Safe – Talking About Touching 
This program discusses with parents how to appropriately talk with their child about strategies to reduce their risk of crime, personal invasion, and handling any dangerous situation involving strangers and people they know.  Presented by Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA). *financial contributions may be made to their organization.
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Sticks, Stones and Words Can Forever Hurt Me: Understanding Relational Aggression
Secret-divulging, rumor spreading, backstabbing, ignoring, manipulating friendships and exclusionary tactics are acts of relational aggression that are common among girls in schools. Relational aggression is used to describe a type of emotional bullying primarily used by pre-adolescent and adolescent girls to victimize other girls. Often covert, this form of aggression uses relationships as weapons to inflict emotional pain thus making it difficult for school personnel and parents to identify and control. The loss of friendships and isolation can be devastating for the victim. This workshop will provide parents with an understanding of relational aggression, its consequences, prevention and intervention.  Presented by Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA). *financial contributions may be made to their organization.
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Protecting Our Children from Sexual Predators
The mainstream media frequently covers the topic of sexual predators. However, there is rarely advice about what parents can do to help protect their children. This program is for parents of children ranging from toddlers to young teens and examines preventative steps recommended by leading experts. Dr. David Hall, Ed. D.
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DRUG & ALCOHOL ISSUES

Talking to you kids about drugs 
No matter how good school and community anti-drug efforts are, research clearly shows that a parent’s prevention campaign is still the most powerful. Therefore, the Bucks County Schools Intermediate Unit provides a program for parents to empower them with strategies and tools for talking to their children about drug use. The program is facilitated by a prevention education specialist and can be tailored to meet the needs of the affiliated parent group or school.
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Underage Alcohol Use  
The use of alcohol by minors is the single largest drug abuse problem facing our youth.  This talk will familiarize parents with the current statistics on UAD in this area, will discuss prevention strategies parents can employ, and provide concrete suggestions on talking to youth about alcohol use. Presented by Bucks County Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (BCCADD).
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Prescription Drug Misuse 
In recent years the misuse of prescription drugs has grown rapidly among all age demographics, but particularly among adolescents.  The presence of the internet as a staple of everyday life has contributed to the easy access of prescription medications for illicit purposes.  This presentation will advise parents of the latest trends in prescription drug misuse and how parents can address this issue preventatively with their children. Presented by BCCADD.
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Inhalants  
This talk is a general overview of the issues related to inhalant abuse and would include some basic information about the scope of the problem, the range and availability of products, warning signs and symptoms, physiologic effects, and intervention options.  Presented by BCCADD.
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What Happens if My Child Gets Cited for Underage Drinking Parents, unfortunately at some point, might be faced with the news that their child has been cited for underage drinking. Listen to the perspective of law enforcement, represented by Chief Duane Hasenauer of the Plumstead Township Police Department, and the judicial system, as represented by Judge Philip Daly of a local district court. Learn about the law in this area and the path that can be taken in dealing with this problem.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Men, Women, and Stress: Why are we so different? 
Gender differences in stress response will be discussed with an emphasis on a better understanding of one another to resolve our differences and reduce our stress. Any reduction in stress within a parent or between parents will profoundly influence all family relationships. Presented by Pamela J. Ginsberg, Ph.D., Psychologist.
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Lifting the Grey Cloud - Preventing Youth Suicide
Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Bucks County Youth and prevention of youth suicide begins with knowledge. Learn about youth depression and suicidal thinking, and what a caring adult can do to help identify and respond to a potentially suicidal youth. Office of Safe And Drug Free Schools, Bucks County Schools Intermediate Unit.
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Self-mutilation  
The prevalence of self-mutilation has drastically increased over the past several years. This workshop is designed to help parents/ professionals identify what self-mutilation is (as compared to “normal” tattoos and piercing) and to understand some on the emotional factors related to it. It also addresses how self-mutilation has taken on a “fad” quality with some teens but can develop into a more chronic problem. Treatment will also be discussed. Presented by Reb Brooks, Psychologist.
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The Choking Game  
This PowerPoint presentation by local police officers describes the health effects and dangers of playing this “game”. They started this program after learning that some local teens were involved in, and dying from this activity. The program includes a pictorial of victims from across the United States and identifies signs parents can look for in their child to see if they are involved in this risky behavior. The officers actively interact with the audience throughout the presentation, introducing their own personal experiences. This program is for late-elementary aged students through high school. Presented by Sergeant J.R. Landis and Officer Stephen Thomas of the Buckingham Township Police Department.
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Is It Safe? Identifying and Managing Concussions
in Active Youth
Has your child ever had their "bell rung", gotten "dinged" or been "knocked for a loop"? Chances are, they've had a concussion.  Most concussions are mild and recovery is relatively quick and uncomplicated.  However, there are circumstances when recovery is complicated, confusing and concerning, especially in children.This workshop will explain what concussion is, how to recognize it and what important steps you need to take to ensure your child's safety, manage their educational needs and determine when it is safe for them to return to activities, such as sports. Presented by Dr. James Stone, Clinical Neuropsychologist and Certified School Psychologist.
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Backpack Safety 101  
Backpacks are a practical and popular way for children to carry schoolbooks and supplies. When used correctly, they can be a good way to carry the necessities of the school day. Improperly used backpacks may injure muscles and joints and cause posture
problems. Come out to learn guidelines for backpack safety. Dr. Jon Gindhart, Chiropractor.
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You, or Someone You Know  
One in four women in the U.S. will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. It’s you – or someone you know. Learn about the dynamics of abuse and the barriers to leaving an abusive relationship, how to support someone living with domestic violence, and how to access domestic violence services and support in our community. Presented by A Woman’s Place.
* financial contributions may be made to their organization.
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Friend or Foe? Talking To Your Children About Healthy Friendships  
From toddler to teen, and every age in between, your child's friendships will shape their lives. Learn when to step in or stay out, how to help your child identify healthy boundaries and more. Presented by a Woman’s Place. *financial contributions may be made to their organization.
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Controlling vs. Caring: Do You Know Who Your Child is Dating?  
One in three teenagers will be in an abusive relationship before they graduate high school. Support your child's choices in dating by learning to recognize the signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships. Presented by A Woman’s Place. *financial contributions may be made to their organization.
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EDUCATION/SCHOOL

40 Assets: 101 
For over 12 years, the 40 Assets (www.search-institute.org) have been part of our Central Bucks community. These developmental assets are concrete, common sense, positive experiences and qualities essential to raising successful young people. Review the 40 Assets with an expert in the field; explore resource material from the Search Institute  which helps in their promotion. Learn about how we, as parents and community members, can cultivate these critical assets. Presented by CB Cares staff.
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College Funding Strategies: Make funding college a non-issue and enjoy the life you deserve.
Come hear a college financial consultant speak about ways to save and pay for college in the most cost-efficient manner. Learn about the numerous ways to use  “other people’s money” to fund college. Presented by David Emery, Vice President, Senior Financial Advisor, Univest National Bank and Trust.
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SAT/ACT Prep: Prepare/ Achieve / Succeed  
A practical workshop for parents of college-bound students designed to guide them through the college application and selection process.  Presented by the Huntington Learning Center of Doylestown.
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Meeting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted Child
Is your child exceptionally bright? Do they have difficulty handling frustration? Do they expect most things to come easily to them? Do they have trouble relating to their age-peers and gravitate more to adults? This presentation will discuss the emotional needs of exceptionally bright children and instruction on how to help them develop the skills they need. Presented by Dr. James Stone, Clinical Neuropsychologist and Certified School Psychologist.
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Homework- A Parent’s Survival Guide
This practical workshop style discussion will offer proven strategies and tactics for dealing with the most difficult homework issues. Bring your friends and join other parents to learn the secrets to making homework a less stressful, more productive and more efficient experience for both you and your children. This workshop will be led by the Huntington Learning Center of Doylestown.
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Creating a Bully-Free School  
Victims of bullying are more likely to suffer physical problems such as common colds and coughs, sore throats, poor appetite and night waking.  Journal of the American Medical Association, 2003

This program is designed to help elementary school parents assist their children in reducing the effects of this social cruelty.  Focus is placed on positive, proactive strategies for risk reduction and how to encourage peer support to stop the bullying.  Presented by Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA). *financial contributions may be made to their organization.
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PRESENTER BIOS

Individuals

Reb Brooks is a licensed psychologist who has been practicing in Central Bucks County since 1979. He provides individual, marital and family therapy in his practice in Doylestown and is certified in treating co-occurring disorders of mental illness and substance abuse. In addition to his practice, he provides workshops and trainings to both professionals and the community and has taught psychology related courses at Delaware Valley College for over 20 years.
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Philip J. Daly is a Magisterial District Judge who serves Doylestown Borough, Doylestown Township, and Warrington Township. He was elected in 2002.
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David Emery is Vice President, Senior Financial Advisor, Wealth Management and Trust, Univest National Bank and Trust Co. in Doylestown.
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Dr. Jon Gindhart is a Chiropractor who enjoys educating others about the importance of spinal care. Dr. Gindhart's technique does not involve any twisting or turning of the head, neck, or back. Dr. Gindhart's office is in Buckingham, PA.
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Barry G. Ginsberg has practiced child and family psychology for more than 30 years. He is the Executive Director of the Center of Relationship Enhancement, an education and training center, and Ginsberg Associates, a child and family psychology practice. Parenting has been a central interest of Dr. Ginsberg since his first child was born in 1962.  Dr. Ginsberg is the host of  Parent Connections, a cable TV interview program on today's important issues for parents and families. He has conducted many parenting seminars and trained thousands of parents.
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Pamela J. Ginsberg, Ph.D., is a licensed Psychologist and Life Coach with a private practice in Doylestown, PA. She has been a practicing Psychologist for over 14 years.  She specializes in Women’s Issues, Women’s Health and Wellness, Stress Management, Life Balance, Self-Esteem, Grief and Bereavement, and Relationship Issues.
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Dr. David Hall, Ed. D., provides trainings for schools and corporations. His doctorate is in human sexuality education. He has won teaching and humanitarian awards at the national, state, and local level. Dr. Hall presents at national conferences on a wide array of issues. He has written a manual, Protecting Our Children from Sexual Predators, The Research and Information You Need to Protect Your Children.
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Duane E. Hasenauer, Chief of Police in Plumstead Township, has been Police Chief since 2000. He has been with Plumstead Township Police Department since 1984, for 23 years.
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Sergeant J.R. Landis joined the Buckingham Township Police Department in 1985 as a patrol officer and since that time has held several positions including narcotics investigator, bike patrol supervisor, and patrol corporal. He has received commendations for valor, heroism, and merit. In 1992 he was named Bucks County Police Officer of the Year.
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Dr. James J. Stone is a Clinical Neuropsychologist and Certified School Psychologist who specializes in the assessment and treatment of neurological, behavioral and learning challenges.  He is in private practice at The Center for Neuropsychology and Counseling, PC ("The Center") in Warrington. He is also on staff at Doylestown Hospital and serves as consultant to Brighton Place in Chalfont and the Community Skills Program of Counseling and Rehabilitation, Inc. in Wyomissing, PA. Dr. Stone also provides consultation, training and professional speaking services to schools, businesses and other organizations. 
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Patrolman Stephen Thomas joined the Buckingham Police Department in 1996. He holds an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice and is currently assigned to the patrol division. Steve achieved the “Police Officer of the Year” Award in the second year of service.
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Organizations

Bucks County Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (BCCADD) is a private not-for-profit human services agency serving Bucks County, Pennsylvania for the last 28 years.    The mission of The Council is to provide resources and opportunities to reduce the impact of addiction and to improve related health issues for the entire community. This mission is accomplished through prevention, consultation, education, advocacy, assessment, intervention, and treatment services.
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The Huntington Learning Center in Doylestown has been in our community since 2004. Huntington Learning Centers help students of all ages build the skills, confidence and motivation to attain better grades. Each student receives a personalized program of individual instruction designed specifically to meet that student’s needs. This custom-designed approach applies, as well, to SAT and ACT exam prep instruction for college-bound students.
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NOVA (Network of Victims Assistance) supports, counsels and empowers victims of sexual assault and other serious crimes and works to eliminate violence in Bucks County through advocacy, community education and prevention programs.
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Office of Safe and Drug Free Schools. The Bucks County Schools Intermediate Unit, Office of Safe & Drug Free Schools, strives to provide high quality prevention programs to assure that schools are a safe and drug free environment conducive to learning. The office works together with community efforts to provide resources and technical assistance to Bucks County Schools to assist with their prevention efforts in the area of alcohol, tobacco, drugs and violence.
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To visit our calendar of events, click here!