June 2014 Newsletter

June 11, 2014 – Plumsteadville Grange

  • Monthly Meeting – 7:30 p.m. at the Grange Hall

Program
– Madison Ochoco, will describe her experiences during her year as Middletown Grange Fair Queen. Sydney Ochoco will present “Strawberry Fields Forever” her entry in the 4-H demonstration contest during A-Day.

June 28, 2014 – Bucks Co. Pomona Grange

  • Saturday Luncheon Meeting – 12:00 noon
  • Presentation of Donations to local service organizations from Pizza Booth Proceeds
  • Memorial Service in memory of members who have passed away during the year
  • ALL Grangers are welcome and encouraged to attend.

July 9, 2014 – Plumsteadville Grange

  • Monthly Meeting – 7:30 p.m. at the Grange Hall

Program
Presentation of 2014 Ellen Elaine Crooke Scholarships

Plumsteadville Grange Farm Market

May 31 – Opening Day – First Saturday there will be a tree planting demo by Bedminster Land Conservancy. Tree to be planted in memory of Ellen Elaine Crooke.

June 7 – Carol Stranahan -singer/ guitarist

June 14 – Alyssa Neiman – singer/ guitarist

For the latest news on demos, entertainment, vendors and special events Visit our Face book page

Keystone Grange Fair – June 27-28

“Keystone Grange #2 in Trappe would like to invite everyone to their 42nd annual fair. This year’s fair will be held at the Montgomery County 4H Center on Route 113 in Creamery.  The dates will be Friday June 27 from 3 pm until dusk and Saturday June 28 from 9 am till dusk.  Friday will feature a pet show, a pageant to select the Grange Fair Queen, bar-be-que from Bigg Dutts and many more activities.  Saturday will feature opening ceremonies at 11 am, music, children’s activities, commercial exhibitors, antique tractors, plenty of food and various groups from 4H showcasing their talents.  Please stop by the Keystone Grange booth and say hello from Plumsteadville Grange! For additional information call Keystone Grange at 484-948-6916, by email at [email protected].  They also have a Face book page and website www.keystonegrange2.org.”

Middletown Grange Fair – Snack Bar

Save the date to help us for our major fundraiser of the year – August 13-17, 3014. More details next month.

From the Desk of Marguerite Quinn

State Representative, 143rd Legislative District

Harrisburg Agriculture Update

One of the most brutal winters on record is finally behind us; spring has sprung, and with it comes hope and optimism for a bountiful growing season in Pennsylvania. In Harrisburg, law makers and state officials are working on updates to existing laws, and introducing other legislation and programs that will hopefully make it easier for those of you working the soil to make the most out of our Commonwealth’s agricultural resources. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture puts out an informative email each month and I would like to share the latest edition with you. It includes a message from Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Agriculture, discussions of how to take more of our products into global markets and other tips to help you thrive this spring and summer. As always, do not hesitate to reach out to my district office at call (215) 489-2126 for further assistance or questions regarding agriculture related legislation and issues, and you can always find me at RepQuinn.net.

Message from George Greig Secretary of Agriculture. Teamwork moves our state forward. I’ve mentioned the importance of partnering with our ag orgs, but as I head for China this afternoon, I’d like to highlight the importance of working with our sister agencies. Whether it’s working with DCED to open new markets for our agribusinesses or DEP to strike the right balance for ag and the environment, teamwork ensures PDA, and the rest of state gov’t, is putting its best foot forward. It also saves taxpayer dollars. On Tuesday our Bureau of Food Safety staff joined Gov. Corbett as he announced $650 million in cost-saving efforts that also improve services and eliminate inefficiencies. Last year our staff partnered with the PA State Police for Operation Code R.E.D., which made it easier to inspect refrigerated food trucks. State Police flagged down the trucks and learned from our food sanitarians as they identified food code violations and helped ensure the safety of our food supply. From electronic filing of paper work to field computers that save staff time and boost productivity, PDA and other state agencies are serving Pennsylvanians more efficiently than ever.

Sec. Greig Embarks to China to Expand PA Markets. Through a trade mission to China, Sec. Greig hopes to help develop and encourage new export markets for PA ag products. Today through Monday, May 12, he will meet with Chinese buyers and gov’t leaders to establish connections and determine potential trade partnerships with PA companies. Yesterday he met with the CEO of China’s Stanley Fertilizer Company at the PDA office in Harrisburg, ahead of his visit to their Chinese operations next week.

Sec. Vilsack Announces Farm Bill Initiatives in Adams County. Applications for two new NRCS conservation initiatives created in the 2014 Farm Bill are now being accepted. During a visit to Kuhn Orchards in Orrtanna, Adams Co., USDA Sec. Tom Vilsack announced the Ag Conservation Easements Program and the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program. The programs will provide up to $386 million to help farmers restore wetlands, protect working ag lands and support outdoor rec activities.

Chester Co. Business Leaders Host Ag Roundtable. Sec. Greig and DEP Sec. Abruzzo were guests Tuesday at the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry’s ag roundtable discussion. Local ag industry professionals had the opportunity to discuss with the secretaries about PDA and DEP and their work with ag and businesses in the county.

 

Farm Bill Funding for Cooperatives, Small Producers. Nearly $9 million in 2014 Farm Bill funds are available for developing rural coops and businesses and providing tech assistance for small farmers. The Rural Coop Development Grant Program will provide up to $5.8 million to coop development centers to support start-ups, expansions or operation improvements. The Small, Socially Disadvantaged Producer Grant program assists those farmers, with $3 million available for market research, product or service improvement, feasibility studies, training and implementing business plans. Contact PAgrows at 717-705-9513.

When Buying Seeds, Ensure You Get What You Pay For. A quick look at the labels on seed bags can save you the headache of buying the wrong product. PDA’s Bureau of Plant Industry Seed Program verifies that seeds sold in PA are tested for quality and labeling accuracy. Check the label for varieties in a mix, germination percentages and weed or undesirable seeds. If you suspect a problem with your seeds or have questions about labeling, contact the seed lab at 717-787-4894.

Did You Know? From the 2007 ag census to the 2012 edition, PA’s livestock and animal products increased in value by 17 percent to $4.62 billion, while crops and hort products increased by 48.9 percent to $2.78 billion.

Plumsteadville Grange Minutes –

The minutes for the May 2014 meeting as recorded by Don Moss (for Karen Moss), secretary, are included in their entirety. Plumsteadville Grange #1738 met Wednesday, May 14, 2014 at 7:30 p..m. Present: Men – 9 Women – 7 Total – 16.

OPENING: The Grange opening ceremony was led by Jim Diamond, followed by the roll call of officers and committee members. Minutes of the previous meeting of April, 2014 were mailed with the monthly newsletter. A motion was approved to accept them (as written)/

GUESTS: Nancy Stevenson and the 4-H Teen Council weeded and mulched the flower beds. They received much thanks from the Grange.

NEW MEMBERS. Larry Kling of Ottsville joined the Plumsteadville Grange.

STANDING COMMITTEES REPORTS:

Deaf Activities/ Fish Fry. The Fish Fry activity this spring raised $1781.00. With costs of $831.00 the event made a profit of $950.00.

Farm Market. The Farm Market will open on May 31, 2014. The hours will be from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

Fair Snack Booth. Steve Byrnes has met with the Middletown Grange Fair and has submitted our menu. It is the same as last years. The proposed addition of Lamb Barbeque is on hold waiting for input from the Lamb Council.

Correspondence/Communications: State sent information concerning Pomona Scrapbooks and Family Activities Contests (Quilting).

The Bucks County Bee Keepers Association donated $100.00 to the Ellen Crooke Scholarship Fund in memory of Harold Steely.

Pomona, National & State Reports: The Secretary reported all reports have been filed. The Plumsteadville Grange paid $932.00 to State for 115 registered members.

The Grange has not heard from Jeanne and Roy Snyder or Christine Crook concerning continued membership. Any updates would be appreciated.

Treasury Report:Income For April: $3,924.12, Expenses for April: $1,967.26

NEW BUSINESS:

A motion was made to donate $1000.00 to the Bucks County Intermediate Unit for hearing related functions. The motion passed.

A motion was made to increase the scholarships to $1000.00 this year since we only have two entrants and we have $2000.00 in the scholarship fund. It was decided to leave the scholarship at $500.00 each for this year and review a possible change for next year.

A motion had passed earlier this year to plant a tree in the Grange lawn in remembrance of Ellen Crooke. Meg Lomax recommended suggested that we plant the tree during the May 31, 2014 Farm Market. She will investigate which tree would be appropriate.

Bucks County Pomona has decided not to run the Pizza Booth. Middletown Grange will find another vendor to take over. They will also donate their portion of the proceeds to community groups.

The meeting closed with the traditional Grange closing ceremony.

Did You Know?

  • According to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Weekly Newsletter, PA is home to 1.6 million total cattle valued at nearly $1.6 billion on 25,189 beef and dairy operations. It ranks second in the nation in veal production – just one way to enjoy PA’s bountiful supply of beef during the summer grilling season.
  • According to the “Weekly News From Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture,” proximity to major highways, population centers and quality ag commodities makes PA a prime location for food manufacturers. PA exported nearly $2 billion worth of food products last year, bringing profits back to PA’s communities.

Happy Birthday

To all Plumsteadville Grange members who have a birthday in JUNE 2014. They say you lose your memory as you grow older. I say “forget about the past” and live life to the fullest today and the many tomorrows. Start your day with ice cream.
Happy Birthday!

Update On State Grange Efforts To Eliminate Taxes On Grange Properties

According to Versant Strategies has indicated that a priority issue of the PA State Grange has been the elimination of taxes for Grange properties. Unfortunately, there are two roadblocks to resolution of the issue. The Grange is not organized as a 501c3 which is required for organizations to be eligible for exemption as charities in the tax code. Also, deep in the tax code, there are two lines which state that agricultural and fraternal organizations may not be given tax exempt status. Even with these seemingly insurmountable obstacles, we have friends in the House and Senate who are looking to help. While this issue will not likely be solved during this session, MeeCee Baker feels confident there is momentum to continue to investigate ways to provide tax relief. In the meantime, the county comptrollers make the decision on a county to county basis. When making the ask on a county level, being prepared with a detailed list of the good works Granges do can be helpful. Let us know if we can assist you.


Satellite imagery boom for farming

 

 

By David Hest, Farm Industry News

In 2014, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) may deliver actionable images every week on every crop acre across the America’s heartland could come to fruition. When combined with crop imagery from manned aircraft and ground-based sensor systems like Trimble’s GreenSeeker and Ag Leader’s OptRx, U.S. crop producers will have a wealth of imagery sources to help improve management of their crops.

With little fanfare, GEOSYS, the French-based satellite imagery company bought by Land O’Lakes in late 2013, began delivering weekly satellite crop images to U.S. farmers through WinField-affiliated ag retailers in April. Satshot, another major satellite imagery provider, says it will begin providing weekly crop images beginning in 2015. For 2014, it has increased the frequency of its 5-meter resolution crop images to every three weeks, up from every four weeks in 2013. Meanwhile, UAVs could begin delivering real-time anytime crop images for the 2016 crop season – assuming federal regulators hold to their fall 2015 schedule for releasing regulations governing commercial UAVs – or recent legal challenges to FAA regulations don’t speed up the timetable.

Use of the Grange Hall

:
If you know of a group needing a meeting place, or to inquire about hall rental for an event, contact Meg Lomax at Meg Lomax at 215-766-9801 or [email protected]

2014 Quilt Raffle

Quilt raffle tickets are available at all Grange events – $2 each or three for $5 – who wouldn’t want to win this beauty!

Sales have been brisk so far – let’s keep the momentum going.

 

Like us on Facebook

– We welcome members, friends and market vendors to post your comments. Search for “Plumsteadville Grange” or “Plumsteadville Grange Farm Market”

Newsletter

If you have something to share in the newsletter, or to get it via email, please contact Jane Birk at
610-657-7668 or [email protected].

Dates To Remember

31 May 2014
Opening of 2104 Plumsteadville Grange Market

11 June 2014
Plumsteadville Grange Meeting, Plumsteadville Grange

28 June 2014
Bucks Co. Pomona Grange Meeting at Plumsteadville

9 July 2014    Plumsteadville Grange Meeting, Grange Hall, Plumsteadville

12-14 Aug 2014
Ag Progress Days, Penn State University

13-17 Aug 2014
66th Middletown Grange Fair

10-17 Jan 2015
99th Pennsylvania Farm Show, Harrisburg

 

 

Plumsteadville Grange Farm Market

Opening Saturday, May 31 at 9:00 a.m.

Tree Planting Demonstration
by Bedminster Land Conservancy

 

Buy LOCAL and FRESH

Vegetables – Fruit – Eggs – Honey – Preserves – Jams – Pickles

Baked Goods- Cheese -Flowers – Crafts – Art Pottery -Alpaca Products

Dog Biscuits – Woodwork – Tea Room – Knitting Workshop

Try your hand at pottery with Gloria Kosco

Continues every Saturday till Oct 25th – 9 a.m. -12:30 p.m.

 

 

Plumsteadville Grange # 1738

Box 335, 5901 Easton Rd.
Plumsteadville, PA 18949

www.plumsteadvillegrange.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

May 2014 Newsletter

May 14, 2014 – Plumsteadville Grange

  • Monthly Meeting – 7:30 p.m. at the Grange Hall
  • Program to be announced

June 4, 2014 – Bucks County Pomona Grange

  • Monthly Meeting – 7:30 p.m. at the Grange Hall
  • Program to be announced

June 11, 2014 – Plumsteadville Grange

  • Monthly Meeting – 7:30 p.m. at the Grange Hall

Program
– Madison Occhoco, will describe her experiences during her year as Middletown Grange Fair Queen. Sydney Ochoco will present “Strawberry Fields Forever” her entry in the 4-H demonstration contest during A-Day.

Help Needed for Grange Dinner

The Grange will be catering the following private dinners – please volunteer to help prepare, serve and clean up. Pies are also needed – contact Annette Crooke 610-470-6602 if you can help or provide a pie or two.

  • May 10 – Pt. Pleasant Baptist Church

These dinners help raise fund for our Grange programs. Your help and support are needed and much appreciated!

Keystone Grange Fair – June 27-28

“Keystone Grange #2 in Trappe would like to invite everyone to their 42nd annual fair. This year’s fair will be held at the Montgomery County 4H Center on Route 113 in Creamery.  The dates will be Friday June 27 from 3 pm til dusk and Saturday June 28 from 9 am till dusk.  Friday will feature a pet show, a pageant to select the Grange Fair Queen, bar-be-que from Bigg Dutts and many more activities.  Saturday will feature opening ceremonies at 11 am, music, children’s activities, commercial exhibitors, antique tractors, plenty of food and various groups from 4H showcasing their talents.  Please stop by the Keystone Grange booth and say hello from Plumsteadville Grange! For additional information call Keystone Grange at 484-948-6916, by email at [email protected].  They also have a Facebook page and website www.keystonegrange2.org.”

From the Desk of Marguerite Quinn

State Representative, 143rd Legislative District

LIHEAP Help Extended

Many of us are doing all we can to forget about the winter we endured in Bucks County, but the reality is for many of our friends and neighbors, the costs of this winter will hurt pocketbooks for the rest of the year. To help ease this burden, Governor Corbett announced an extension of LIHEAP benefits. Now Pennsylvanians struggling to pay home heating bills will have extra time, through April 18, to apply for financial help through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The federally-funded program was slated to end April 4.

“Pennsylvania has had a difficult winter, and programs like LIHEAP have helped our most vulnerable households to endure the cold temperatures,” Corbett said. “By providing this extension, our Department of Public Welfare is able to give individuals additional time to apply for home heating assistance so they can keep warm for the remainder of the season.”

Since the beginning of the LIHEAP season on Nov. 4, the department has processed approximately 357,000 applications for cash assistance to help low-income households pay for home heating fuel. It has also granted more than 107,000 crisis grants, which assist with heating emergencies such as a furnace failure or unexpected fuel shortages.

Cash grants are based on household income, family size, type of heating fuel and region. In addition to proof of income and household size, applicants must provide a recent bill or a statement from their fuel dealer verifying their customer status and the type of fuel used.

Individuals can apply for a LIHEAP grant online at www.compass.state.pa.us or in person at the Bucks County assistance office, located at 1214 Veterans Highway in Bristol. You may also call the Bucks County office at 215-781-3300, or the statewide toll-free hotline at 1-866-857-7095 with questions about the program.

For more information about LIHEAP, visit www.dpw.state.pa.us

Mark Your Calendars

Shredding Event – I am hosting a free paper shredding event to give all residents of the 143rd Legislative District the opportunity to safely destroy personal paperwork. The event, which will feature an on-site industrial paper shredder, will take place on Saturday, May 3, from 9-11 a.m., in the parking lot of the Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company, 5064 Stump Road in Plumsteadville. You will have a chance to shred a maximum of two file boxes full of paper, and watch your documents be shredded on site.

“Golden” Anniversary Tea – I would like to honor couples living in the 143rd District who have been married for 50 years or more by inviting them to a “Golden Anniversary Tea” later this year. If you, or a couple you know are interested in participating in this special recognition, please call my district office at 215-489-2126 to register. You will be asked to provide the names of the anniversary couple, address, phone number and date of marriage. A personal invitation will be sent via mail to those who register.

Plumsteadville Grange Minutes – March

The minutes for the March 12, 2013 meeting as recorded by Donel Moss (Acing secretary) are included in their entirety. Plumsteadville Grange #1738 met Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. Present: Men – 6,     Women – 5. Total – 11

OPENING: The Grange opening ceremony was led by Overseer Don Steeley, followed by the roll call of officers and committee members. Minutes of the previous meeting of February 11, 2014 were mailed (emailed) with the monthly newsletter.

PROGRAM: The subject of the program was “BC PA Strong Networking”, a form of Time Banking. The presentation was made by Dr. Julie Fagan. Geared to both individuals and organizations, time can be entered when a service is performed and time can be withdrawn when a service is required. The network becomes a way of trading time.

STANDING COMMITTEES REPORTS:

Deaf Activities: The Fish Fry held on March 7 served 54 meals and made approximately $300.00.

Farm Market: The first farm market will be held on May 31, 2014.

SPECIAL COMMITTEES:

Ray Gross Memorial: It was decided that the display case as a memorial to Raymond Gross would also be a memorial for Harold Steely.

Pomona, National & State Reports: The Secretary reported all reports have been filed.

Treasury Report: Income for the period was $4519.55 and expenses were $4032.77. It was noted that the cost of snow plowing this year was more than doubled from last year.

NEW BUSINESS:

State Grange has released a Quilt Raffle. Tickets are available from Karen Moss.

Plumstead Township is looking for volunteers to serve on the new Plumsteadville Village Committee. Interest was shown at the meeting to having the Grange offer to serve. Don Moss will follow-up.

The meeting closed with the traditional Grange closing ceremony.

Respectfully submitted, Acting Secretary, Don Moss

Plumsteadville Grange Minutes –April

The minutes for the April 2014 meeting of the Plumsteadville Grange as recorded by Karen Moss, secretary, are included in their entirety. Plumsteadville Grange #1738 met Wednesday, April 9th t 7:30 pm.

Present Men – 7, Women – 11, Total – 18.

OPENING: The Grange opening ceremony was led by Master Jim Diamond, followed by the roll call of officers and committee members. Minutes of the previous meeting of March 2014 were not mailed/ emailed with the monthly newsletter and will be presented in next month’s newsletter for approval.

ROLL CALL OF OFFICERS: Present were Master Jim Diamond, Overseer Don Steeley, Lecturer Darlene Quiring, Chaplain Tony Townsand, Treasurer Jim Lomax, Secretary Karen Moss, Greeter Katie Graham, Ceres Ruth Steeley, Pomona Toni Kellers, Flora Jane Birk, Musician Betty Diamond.

GUESTS: Members of the Steeley family, Jim & Joyce Stauffer and Mary & Charlie Mann.

PROPOSALS FOR MEMBERSHIP: Kevin Kinney

PROGRAM: The charter was draped in memory of Harold Steeley, followed by shared memories of his friendship.

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES:

Deaf Activities/Fish Fry: Reported by Jim Lomax that the last Fish Fry for the spring season will be held this coming Friday, April 11th. The previous Fish Fry had 85 guests and to date the Fish Frys have raised $400 for our Deaf Activities fund.

Farm Market: The Farm Market will open May 31st. A clean up date will be announced. Meg Lomax is trying to coordinate the Dairy Princess crowning with the opening. In August there will be an exhibit and activities presented by the Bee Keepers Association.

Quilters: Reported that since 2004 they have raised $7,556.

Building and Maintenance & Grounds: Brandon Byrne has raked and leveled the area between the Grange building and barn to restore it after winter damage.

There was a shortage of parking reported at the last Fish Fry. It was suggested that volunteers for this event and our other dinners park behind the barn to free more spaces for our guests.

The sewer grinder (in the barn parking lot) has been installed, backfilled and marked with caution signs. This was installed under the direction of Bucks County Water Authority to correct the problem of excess water flowing into the storm sewers and prevent backup of waterand sewage into the apartments and Grange.

Agriculture: Honey bees have been sighted gathering nectar. Trauger’s has sweet corn started in the green house and 100 pounds of peas planted outside.

REPORTS OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES:

Ray Gross Memorial: Don Moss has presented plans for the display cabinet and it is planned     that it will be ready for dedication at the November meeting.

Ellen Crooke Scholarship Fund: Has received an addition $1,180 in donations in memory of Harold Steeley.

COMMUNICATIONS: Received a thank you from Ruth Steeley.

TREASURER’S REPORT: For the period 3/1/2014 through 3/31/2014 we had income of $3,978 and expenses of $4,557 with our biggest expenses for the month being for snow removal and building maintenance.

NEW BUSINESS: Limiting the number of programs presented during the year was discussed, found acceptable to those present, but it will be left to the Lecturer to make the final decision on the number of programs and dates.

Meg Lomax reported that the Food Shed Alliance is considering presenting workshops on Food Preservation at the Grange during Farm Market hours in September. Jim Diamond will repeat his Sauerkraut workshop in October. Cabbage will be available – bring your own crock.

During the month of March there has been a display at the Doylestown Branch of the Library about our Plumsteadville Grange. It was designed by Meg Lomax and Betsy Wertz, assembled by the quilters. Meg Lomax reported that it was well received.

The same display will be used on May 31st at an all-day event celebrating the opening of Hanusey Community Park in Plumstead Township. The park entrance is off Route 611 on Gordon Road. The event will open at 10 am, continue all day with the movie “Frozen” being shown, under the stars at 8pm. The park includes sports fields, basketball courts, tot lot, pavilion, walking trails and an indoor community center. Here’s a sneak peek…

MEMBERS SICK OR IN DISTRESS: Lillian Shull is having a heart operation at Doylestown Hospital this coming Friday.

Respectfully submitted, Karen Moss, Secretary.

Did You Know?

Plant Merchants Must Be Licensed this Growing Season Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture George Greig has announced that as part of PDA’s work to safeguard PA’s plants against pests and diseases, all plant growers and merchants must be certified and licensed. Consumers can use the PaPlants portal to find a nearby nursery or plant dealer and producers and businesses can use it to manage their certifications.

PA Hardwood Forests According to Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture George Greig, the USDA Forest Service estimates that Pennsylvania’s nation-leading hardwood forests cover nearly 16.8 million acres with 114 billion board-feet of standing saw timber. They contribute to healthier ecosystems, provide recreation and clean the air while remaining the world’s highest-quality supply of hardwoods.

Schedule for 2014 All-American Dairy Show

The 51st All-American Dairy Show is Sept. 13-18 at the PA Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg. The show features 23 shows in six days, including four full days dedicated to youth activities and nearly 2,800 animals from more than 1,200 exhibitors from across North America. The 11th annual Premier National Junior Events run in conjunction with the show from Sept. 13-16.

PA Fruit Production According to Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture George Greig, “PA ranks in the top six nationally for five major fruit varieties – apples, grapes, peaches, pears and tart cherries. In 2012, total production on more than 40,000 acres was valued at more than $180 million.”

Dog Wardens Checking for License, Rabies Compliance. According to Pennsylvania Department off Agriculture, PA’s dog wardens are canvassing homes throughout PA to ensure that all dogs owners have current licenses and rabies vaccinations for their dogs. All dogs three months or older must be licensed by Jan. 1 of each year. Licenses may be purchased through county treasurers, at issuing agents or online

Members Sick or in Distress

Do not under estimate the power of prayer. Please keep the following Plumsteadville Grange members and Grange friends in your prayers.

  • Lillian Shull
  • Anne Bailey

Your Vote Counts

PA Primary election day is Tuesday May 20

2014 Quilt Raffle

Quilt raffle tickets are available at all Grange events – $2 each or three for $5 – who wouldn’t want to win this beauty!

Sales have been brisk so far – let’s keep the momentum going.

 

 

Use of the Grange Hall

:
If you know of a group needing a meeting place, or to inquire about hall rental for an event, contact Meg Lomax at Meg Lomax at 215-766-9801 or [email protected]

May 31 – Two Great Events

Grange Farm Market Opening Day

9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m..

Joseph E Hanusey III Community Park

Opening Ceremony – 10 a.m.
Events continue throughout the day
Plumsteadville Grange will have a table display – stop by to visit or help spread the word about us

Visit www.plumsteadvillegrange.org

or our facebook pages for updates

Like us on Facebook

– We welcome members, friends and market vendors to post your comments. Search for “Plumsteadville Grange” or “Plumsteadville Grange Farm Market”

Newsletter

If you have something to share in the newsletter, or to get it via email, please contact Jane Birk at
610-657-7668 or [email protected].


 

 

Plumsteadville Grange # 1738

Box 335, 5901 Easton Rd.
Plumsteadville, PA 18949

www.plumsteadvillegrange.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

April 2014 Newsletter

April 9, 2014 – Plumsteadville Grange

  • Monthly Meeting – 7:30 p.m. at the Grange Hall
  • Draping of the Charter in memory of Brother Harold Steeley
  • Program to be announced

May 14, 2014 – Plumsteadville Grange

  • Monthly Meeting – 7:30 p.m. at the Grange Hall
  • Program to be announced

Help Needed for Grange Dinners

The Grange will be catering the following private dinners – please volunteer to help prepare, serve and clean up. Pies are also needed – contact Annette Crooke 610-470-6602 if you can help or provide a pie or two.

  • April 6 – Lamb/Wool Pool
  • April 26 – Pineville Horse Company
  • May 10 – Pt. Pleasant Baptist Church

These dinners help raise fund for our Grange programs. Your help and support are needed and much appreciated!

Last Fish Fry Before Easter – April 11

This is your last chance to get our delicious fish ‘n chips with all the fixings before Easter. Volunteers are also needed to help prep, serve, and clean up. Contact Jim Lomax 215-766-9801for more info.

 

Our previous fish dinners were successful – Let’s keep up the good energy to achieve our goal of $1,000 to be donated to the Bucks County Intermediate Unit to benefit local deaf children and their families.

 

Ellen Elaine Crooke Scholarships 2014

Sponsored by Plumsteadville Grange

Application Deadline May 1st 2014

  • Scholarships for 4H members, alumni, and children of Plumsteadville Grange Members
  • Two scholarships of $500 each will be offered. One will be Agriculture related and one will be for a study of the student’s choice.
  • Students can reapply for study year 2 if they have maintained a grade point average of 2.5 or above, but they will compete with new students applying for year 1.
  • Agriculture students may apply in year 2 for a subject of their choice.
  • Students to apply to Plumsteadville Grange on the 4H/Plumsteadville Grange application form available from Nancy Stephenson at the county Extension office.

 From the Desk of Marguerite Quinn

State Representative, 143rd Legislative District

Residents Concerned with Spikes in Electric Bills

Within the past few weeks, numerous residents have called my office about recent increases in electric bills – brought on by the variable rate charged by your electric generation supplier.

The House Consumer Affairs Committee will be looking into this matter by holding a public hearing on Thursday, March 20, in Harrisburg. From testimony gathered at that hearing, we’ll be able to see if legislation would help correct this situation.

In the meantime, here’s a short explanation of why this is happening: Competitive electric generation suppliers are not public utilities and their rates are not subject to government regulation. These suppliers operate in a competitive, free market environment. The terms and conditions of service offered by a competitive supplier are contained in the contracts it offers to customers. 

When a consumer signs up for service from a competitive generation supplier, it is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of service, which contain important information regarding the type of rate (fixed or variable), how the rate is determined, if the rate includes taxes and fees, and if the contract is subject to early termination or cancellation fees.

Under fixed rate contracts, consumers are charged the same price for electric generation for the duration of their service contract with a competitive generation supplier. However, variable rate contracts are generally subject to a promotional rate period, followed by fluctuating monthly rates based on wholesale electric prices.

I cannot stress enough that variable rates change based on wholesale market conditions. While these types of contracts may work for some consumers, anyone considering a variable rate contract for electric generation should be aware that the rates are market based, and that dramatic rate increases may occur. Market prices for electric generation are constantly in flux – and greater demand for energy, as evidenced by our cold winter – is one of those factors.

Unfortunately, consumers with variable rate contracts are impacted by these record-breaking wholesale prices, and have seen or will see increases in their monthly bills as a result. However, a large increase in a variable rate does not, on its own, point to inappropriate conduct by an electric supplier.

Customers on a variable rate plan are encouraged to contact their supplier on a regular basis to find out the rate the supplier is charging for that day/month. Customers should also be aware of any early termination or cancellation fees associated with their contracts. If switching to another supplier, please be aware that it takes one or two billing cycles for the switch to be completed. During this time, you will continue to be a customer of the “old” supplier.

We have all been told before, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. I look forward to the Consumer Affairs Committee’s findings on this subject, and will push for any relevant legislation that will protect consumers from any unfair business practice in the future.

Happy Birthday

To All Plumsteadville Grange Members Who Have A Birthday In April 2014
 Birthdays are good for you, the more you have the longer you live .  Happy Birthday!

Did You Know?

PA’s trout producers raised more than $13.5 million worth of PA-grown fish in 2012 for commercial, conservation and recreational use, placing the state third in the nation and ensuring happy anglers during trout season.

Youth can create 4-H projects in more than 100 categories and exhibit them at fairs throughout PA.  In 2013, 103,000 PA youth participated in more than 1,400 4-H clubs in all 67 counties across the state.

PA is home to 39 historical markers honoring ag like the Doylestown Ag Works in Doylestown, Bucks Co. The factory produced farm machinery and iron works sold around the world from 1867-1937.

7 March Issue of Inside PDA, Weekly News from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

PA is home to 10 percent of the nation’s hardwood lumber supply and exports $1.2 billion in hardwoods yearly. Help keep this supply safe by taking care to prevent wildfires

14 March Issue of Inside PDA, Weekly News from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

Bedminster Township Newsletter & Website

The Township’s new website is now up and running at www.bedminsterpa.com. .

On the home page, at the bottom, there is a place to subscribe for news alerts (e-blast); the Township will be sending out a monthly newsletter with upcoming events and notices to all members that subscribe.  Please let people know that this is available. 

 If you know of any upcoming non-profit events that you would like included on the monthly newsletter, please contact us ([email protected]  &   [email protected]  .

Pharmaceutical Drop Off

State Representative, 143rd Legislative District

Did you know medicines in the home are a leading cause of accidental poisoning? Just as disturbing are the alarmingly high rates of prescription drug abuse among teens. A National study, conducted last year by The Partnership at Drugfree.org and the MetLife Foundation, found that 49 percent of teens who misuse or abuse prescription medicines get them from a family member or friend. More often than not, these drugs are found in our medicine cabinets. 

This year’s U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) National Prescription Take-Back Day will be held on Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Temporary drop-off boxes will be set up throughout or communities on that date to help you safely dispose of medications. For the convenience of Plumsteadville Grange members following are some drop off sites that will be available in your respective communities:

Bucks County Courthouse  55 E. Court Street  Doylestown, PA 18901  215-348-6000 

Doylestown Township Police  425 Wells Road  Doylestown, PA 18901  215-348-4201 

Dublin Borough Police   119 Maple Avenue  Dublin, PA 18917  215-249-0272 

Hilltown Township Police  13 West Creamery Road  Hilltown, PA 18927  215-453-6000 

Pennridge Regional Police  200 Ridge Road  Sellersville, PA 18960  215-257-5104 

Perkasie Borough Police  311 S. 9th Street  Perkasie, PA 18944  215-257-6876 

Plumstead Township Building   5186 Stump Road  Plumsteadville, PA 18949  215-766-8741 

Take Precautions When Applying Manure

Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Greig urged PA farmers to follow state laws when spreading manure this spring to reduce the risk of groundwater contamination. All farms that generate or use manure are required by state law to have a Chapter 91 Manure Mgm’t Plan or Act 38 Nutrient Mgm’t Plan. Contact your local conservation district for more details.

Members Sick or in Distress

Do not under estimate the power of prayer. Please keep the following Plumsteadville Grange members and Grange friends in your prayers:

  • Betty Diamond
  • Lillian Shull
  • Margaret Moyer
  • Harold Keeler & family
  • Family of Raymond Gross
  • Family of Harold Steeley

     

Like” us on Facebook

– We welcome members, friends and market vendors to post your comments. Search for “Plumsteadville Grange” or “Plumsteadville Grange Farm Market”

Use of the Grange Hall

:
Many groups that use our hall, making it truly a community center. If you know of a group needing a meeting place, or to inquire about hall rental for an event, contact Meg Lomax at Meg Lomax at
215-766-9801 or [email protected]

Newsletter

If you have something to share in the newsletter, or to get it via email, please contact Jane Birk at
610-657-7668 or [email protected].

THINK SPRING …

Farm Market Opens

May 31st

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FISH FRY DINNER

 

Fish, fries, Salads, Coleslaw, Dessert

EAT IN OR TAKE OUT

FRIDAY April 11
5 to 7pm

Adults $8 under 12 years $5

Proceeds to benefit the

Doylestown Intermediate Unit for deaf children

Jim Lomax 215 766 9801 www.plumsteadvillegrange.org