The din of the cicadas’ song has been dying out for a week as I write this, and I can’t say I’m sorry to see them go. It hasn’t been too bad for us at the light in Ferndale, but our friends up the hill have had to endure an absolute racket since about mid-June. I’m sure we’re all glad it’ll be another 17 years before we have to think about those little visitors again.

Our condolences go out to the parents, family and friends of 17-year-old Jim Friendly of Spinnerstown. He got caught in the river’s undertow last week and didn’t make it. His body was recovered on Saturday about 175 yards from where he was last seen, near the intersection of Hwys. 611 and 212 at the lock. Thanks to all the emergency personnel and search-and-rescue units who gave their all to help find the lost boy.

A reminder to everyone that June is, historically, a particularly deadly month on the Delaware. It’s a deceptive river, calm and gentle on top, but with rocks and deep spots all over the bottom that cause swirling and suction you just can’t see. According to Martin Focazio, a volunteer with the Upper Black Eddy Fire Dept., the river claims an average of 3-5 people annually. Please, everyone: use some kind of approved flotation device and a bit of common sense. The most dangerous thing we can do is to take the river for granted and believe it holds no secrets.

On a lighter note, kudos to the Palisades football teams, who won their competition at the Bucknell Summer Football Camp, and who held a successful softball tournament fundraiser for their Florida trip this past weekend. The weather cooperated beautifully, as it also did for graduation ceremonies on June 18th. Sandy Weber reports that the student speakers were eloquent and moving. We all wish our new grads the very best for positive, productive and happy futures.

Parents of students just starting out at The River Valley School in Upper Black Eddy will be able to attend two pre-K and Kindergarten open houses, on July 17 and August 14 from 9:AM-11:AM. Children are welcome to attend. The school is currently accepting registrations for their Summer Arts Camp to be held this August 2-13 from 9:00 AM-3:30 PM. After-care is available until 5:PM. This year's camp will explore Hispanic culture, featuring activities in music, drama and pottery. The camp is open to 5-12 yr olds. Please call the school for more information or to register for these programs at 610-982-5606.

Arlene Eichlin says the free concert and classic car cruise-in sponsored by the Nockamixon Historical Society on Sunday was lots of fun, and reminds us that two more are scheduled for July 25th with the Daisy Jug Band, and August 15th with the traditional brass sound of the Quakertown Band. More information is available in the new Township newsletter, available at the Township building in Ferndale.

Happy Birthday to Helen Nast of Ferndale and Bud Weber of Kintnersville, and congratulations to Bessie Kimenour of Ottsville on celebrating 40 years of volunteer service to the Ottsville Fire Company Auxiliary. Helen reminds us that St. Luke’s Church in Ferndale has their Peach Festival coming up from 3-7 PM on Sunday, August 1. don’t miss out on the fun and great food!

Sending wishes to Annalisa Lyons to get well soon. Her mom, Liz Lyons, reports the little girl has come down with chicken pox. That’s no fun, especially in summer. Perhaps she’ll feel better with a bowl of ice cream from the American Grill in Kintnersville, which Bob Mitchell says should open today.

Lt. Michelle Turk visited the township meeting with the advice to stay alert for increased burglary activity. She says to be especially aware of keeping things locked and out of sight while you’re away from home. More information is available at the Dublin State Police Barracks or by calling 215-249-9191. Whatever you all are doing, please have a fun, happy and safe summer. Send your news and event notices for this column to notes@thewordforge.com.