Upper Bucks Free Press • April 2024

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

ONGOING:

Now to April 15 – Beautiful Oil Paintings of outdoor scenes by Christine McHugh of Upper Bucks County and ‘Antique Zithers’ collected by Matt Koch. Richland Library hours: Wed. 1pm-4pm and Sat. 9am-12noon at 44 S Main St, Quakertown. Handicap access.

April 28 to May 26 – 48th Bucks County Designer House & Gardens at Sycamore Lane Farm, 1421 Rt 113, Perkasie. $40/advance, $45 at door. BucksCountyDesignerHouse.org, 215-345-2191

FRESH CONNECT Bucks County free farmers mkt for eligible Bucks County residents every Wed 11am-1pm at Quakertown Memorial Park, 600 W Mill St. Walk Through Method. FMI: 215-536-0353

FRESH CONNECT Bucks County free farmers mkt for eligible Bucks County residents 10am-12noon every 1st & 3rd Thursday at Palisades Middle School, 4710 Durham Rd, Kintnersville. Drive Through Method. FMI: 215-536-0353

March 29

“Suffragette” Free Movie Matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm. Peanut-free crunchy snacks/ beverages in lidded containers are welcome. Perkasie Free Library, 491 Arthur Ave. 215-257-9718

Order Hoagies by today for pickup April 8 at Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 n Main St. To order call Karen at 267-372-1404

Easter Egg Hunt 1pm for ages 2-10 at Springfield Church of the Brethren, 920 Passer Rd, Coopersburg. 610-282-1834, SpringfieldBrethren.com

March 29 to 31

Easter Flower Sale on Honor System at Haycock Fire Co, 850 Old Bethlehem Rd, Quakertown. Drop exact amount in cash/check into a secure box. No change. $4/for 4.5”pot, $8/for 6” pot, $15/ 8” pot of tulips, $20/mixed garden dishes. Haycockfire.org

March 30

Egg Hunt 10am at Trumbauersville Veterans Park, 140 Woodview Dr, Quakertown. Hosted by Trumbauersville Lions Club

Hoppy Easter Eggs-travaganza 11am-4pm at Trolley Barn, 108 E Broad St, Rt. 313, Quakertown. Easter Bunny, Egg Hunt, Face Painting. Craft vendors begin at Noon.

Easter Egg Hunt 10am for ages 2-10. Four age groups with 3 prize eggs in each group. All kids receive a craft from the Easter Bunny. Enjoy hot dogs after each hunt. Trinity Great Swamp UCC, 9150 Spinnerstown Rd, Spinnerstown.

March 31 Easter

No-Cost Easter Dinner 12noon at St. Michael’s Lutheran, 25 Church St, Sellersville. Volunteers needed, please call. Deliveries may be possible for shut-ins. RSVP 215-651-3949

April 1

Hoagie Sale at Upper Bucks Activity Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown. MUST ORDER/PAY by April 4 for Pick-up April 18 from 1pm-3pm. Fresh 12” hoagies $7 each. Italian, turkey, ham! Sara 215-536-3066 or stop in to order.

April 2

“History & Community of Durham Furnace” by Kathryn Clark, Bucks County author. Perkasie Historical Society Dinner Meeting 6:30pm at St. Stephen’s UCC, 110 N 6th St, Perkasie. $15/dinner. Reserve: 215257-9624. Perkasiehistory.org

Quakertown Rotary meets 7:30am-8:30am at John's Plain & Fancy Restaurant. FMI: Todd Baringer at 610-360-9572.

April 3

‘So You Think You Can Cook’ 6pm-8:30pm at Perseverance Fire Co, 266 N 2nd St, Souderton. Fun culinary event filled with good food & friendly competition. Sign your team up to compete or come w/friends to taste & vote favorites. Sytycc.telfordhappenings.com Free Line Dancing Open House 7pm-9pm in Event Rm 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Hosts: Joanie & Jenny. Starting Apr 26, we’ll have monthly Line Dancing Night!

April 5, 6, 7

“The Unfinished Adventures of Stinky Feet Pete” live performance at DCP Theater, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Rollicking and interactive play with the audience. Fri 8pm, Sat/Sun 1pm & 4pm. Tickets: $17 online. 215-234-0966.

April 6

Tax Form Pickup Day at Craig Staats’ District Office, 10 S Third St, Quakertown. Tax forms will be available for pickup.

Quakertown Girls Flag Football ‘Dine & Donate’ 5pm-9pm at Yards Flatbread Pizza in The Trolley Barn, 116 E Broad St, Quakertown. 15% of all orders will be donated back to the team.

Coopersburg Historical Society presents Bob Swaim and his unique human powered toys. FREE program 1pm at Coopersburg Town Hall, 5 N Main St. When was the last time you played with toys that didn’t require batteries?

11th Annual Gala for Last Chance Ranch

Animal Rescue’s 25th Anniversary, 5pm-10pm at Homewood Suites in Center Valley. Music, dinner & drinks. Biggest fundraiser of year. Ticket Info: lastchanceranch.org

Cash Bingo Fundraiser for Pennridge Community Center, 146 E Main St, Perkasie. Opens 11:30am, games 1pm. Lots of different prizes. Selling hot food, etc. Tickets $30/each. Call 215-453-7027 or stop by Center to buy tickets. Pennridgecommunitycenter.org

Household Hazardous Waste Collection 8:30am-2pm, rain/shine at Bucks County Community College, 225 Swamp Rd, Newtown. Check Buckscounty.gov/recycling or 215-345-3400 for what you can or cannot bring to the event. Indian Valley Library Used Book Sale 10am-4pm at 100 E Church Ave, Telford. ivpl.org/book-sales

Free Line Dancing Open House 7pm-9pm in Event Rm 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Hosts: Joanie & Jenny. Starting Apr 26, we’ll have monthly Line Dancing Night!

Drive-thru $15 Roast Beef Dinner 4pm-6pm at Frieden’s Lutheran, 2451 Saucon Valley Rd, Center Valley.

April 7

Designer Bag Bingo, open noon, bingo 1pm. Tickets: $25/advance, $30/door. Basket Raffle, food available at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown. Daubers for sale if needed. 610-428-3349 or email QCHSalumniboard@ gmail.com

27th Annual Bucks-Mont Antique Bottle Show. $10 for Early Buyers 8am. $3 regular admission 9am-2pm. Tylersport Fire Co, 125 Ridge Rd, Tylersport. Info: 267-718-2695 or cadklong@verizon.net

Community Hymn Sing! 3:30pm at Saucon Church, 6639 N Main St, Coopersburg. Come to sing, play along with your instruments, meet new people. Refreshments after.

April 8 Solar Eclipse

Eclipse can be viewed in PA starting 2pm to 4:30pm. Totality will occur in northwest region of the State. 90%-99% in the rest of the State.

April 10

Woman’s Club of Indian Valley meets 1pm at Telford Community Building, 125 Hamilton Ave, Telford. Relaxing fun time playing board games, card games, etc. Visit Woman’sClubofIV.com or call 862-251-3076. Prospective members welcome.

April 12 & 13

“The Unfinished Adventures of Stinky Feet Pete” live performance at DCP Theater, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Rollicking and interactive play with the audience. Fri 8pm, Sat 1pm & 4pm. Tickets: $17 online. 215-234-0966.

April 13

Last Chance Ranch Spring Gift Card Bingo. Open 5pm, Bingo 6pm at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry St, Quakertown. Tickets: $30 in advance. $100 gift cards. BYOB and Food. Lastchanceranch.org

Perkasie Indoor Farmers Market 9am12noon at Perkasie Fire Company Fire Hall, 100 N 5th St.

Antiques “Roadshow” style Appraisal Day 12noon-2pm at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Spectators welcome! Appraisals are $20 cash for 2 items maximum at door. No jewelry or sports card collections.

20th Annual Perkasie Stream Clean-up!

9am-12noon: Volunteers collect trash along waterways, roads, parks, open spaces. Noon3pm: those with trucks/trailers take trash to donated dumpsters. Contact Jessie for details at jkemper@perkiomenwatershed.org

April 14

“Shep & Jim” Free Music 10am-2pm in the Q-Court, exit 19 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Enjoy a wide variety of classic rock music.

18th Annual Spring Basket Bingo, open 11:30am, games 1pm, Sellersville Fire Dept, 2 N Main St. Longaberger products filled to top! Many extras! Tickets: $25/adv, $30/door. All MUST have ticket. LadiesAux@sellersville. com or leave message at 215-257-4028 Ext 6.

Open House 1:30pm-4pm w/presentation at 2pm. Keith Schaffer demonstrates how to find water with a dowser. You can also try dowsing on your own at Strassburger Farmstead, 407 Keystone Dr & Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville. 267-614-9174, hilltownhistory.org

April 15

Free Take-out Dinner at Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. Pick up at 5:30pm. If you need more than 4 meals, call 215-249-3689. Held the 3rd Monday of each month.

April 16

Quakertown Rotary meets 7:30am-8:30am at Johns Plain & Fancy Restaurant. FMI: Todd Baringer at 610-360-9572.

April 18

Pennridge Career Expo 8am-9:45am at Pennridge High School, White Gym, 1228 N 5th St, Perkasie. CareerPathways@pennridge. org, 215-453-6844 ext 113071

April 20

3rd Saturday Indoor Craft Show 9am-4pm, Rm 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Local artists/crafters with handmade items.

“Vices Inc.” 12noon-2pm free on the Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Pop Punk/Alternative/Emo band based out of Portland, Maine.

Spring Craft/Vendor Show 9am-3pm at Children’s Developmental Program, 995 Doylestown Pike, Quakertown. Handmade items by local people. To register or for info, call 215-536-7800, arichter@cdpchildren.org

Sellersville’s 150th Car Show 9am-2pm at Sellersville Fire Dept, 2 N Main St. To preregister: send $10 to Good Time Motorvators, P O Box 373, Sellersville. Register day of show 9am-11am for $15. R/D April 21

Spaghetti Dinner 4pm-7pm at Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 N Main St. Advance tickets, call Jen 215-989-0909. $12/ adult, $6/age 5-10, $12/Takeout. Tickets at door $2 more. Call Jen 215-989-0909.

Free Shredding Event 10am-12noon at Grasse Elementary School, 600 Rickert Rd, Sellersville. Stay inside car, staff will remove from your car, no more than 2 boxes per car. No businesses please, residents only.

April 21

Spring Craft Fair 11am-4pm at West End Fire Co, 1319 Park Ave, Quakertown. Some food & drink available for purchase. Also raffle baskets & 50/50.

Low Cost Vaccines, Microchip & Heartworm Prevention Clinic 11:30am1:30pm for Logan’s Heroes Animal Rescue at Hometown Pet Center, 702 W State St, Coopersburg. 610-282-5435.

“Double Trouble” Elvis Tribute 4pm-7pm at Trinity UCC Downstairs Social Hall, 101 S Main St, Telford. Opens 3pm. $40 ticket includes buffet dinner by Ristorante Toscano. Tickets: 267-377-9216 or 215-723-3889. Not wheelchair accessible.

April 22 Earth Day

April 24

Rags to Riches 7pm. Author Julie Henning shares life story from growing up in poverty in South Korea to living at Pearl S Bucks Estate. Speaker for Amerasians. “A Rose in a Ditch” book available to buy at Hilltown Twp Building, 13 W Creamery Rd & Rt. 152. Free, donations appreciated. Hilltownhistory.org

April 26

Senior Key Photo Day 10am-3pm at Craig Staats’ District Office, 10 S Third St, Quakertown. Must be age 65 on or before October 27, 2023. Bring photo ID for proof of age. Phone 215-536-1434 for an appointment.

Line Dance Night 7pm-9pm in Event Rm 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. $8/admission. Receive $5 Market Bucks with paid admission. Come learn to line dance on our wooden dance floor.

April 27

4th “Sellebrate” Sellersville Clean-Up Day 9am-12noon. Volunteers meet at American Legion Post, 75 N Main St, Sellersville. Volunteers provided w/trash bags, gloves and safety vests. Hot dogs & water provided after the clean-up. Call the Borough at 215-2575075 to pre-register.

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

Spring Clean Up Day 8am. Volunteers meet at Quakertown Pool Parking Lot across from Memorial Park on Mill St. Planting trees, weeding, mulching, painting, etc.

'Hold On You Matter' Spring Walk at Bucks County Community College, Upper Bucks Campus, One Hillendale Rd, Perkasie. Contact: HoldOnYouMatter@gmail.com

“Our Neighborhood” In-Person Walking Tour. Meet 1pm at Perkasie Historical Society Museum, 513 W Walnut St. perkasiehistory. org Suggested donation $5.

Perkasie Indoor Farmers Market 9am12noon at Perkasie Fire Company Fire Hall, 100 N 5th St.

‘Make & Take’ Fabric Crafts, 10am-2pm at Schwenkfelder Heritage Center, 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. Free, no registration. Drop in to Stauffer Education Room. Younger kids may need an adult to assist them. 215-679-3103

Flea Market 9am-2pm at Dublin Fire Co, 194 N Main St. Breakfast/lunch available outdoors by Ladies Auxiliary. $20/space. Bring own table. Reservations must be made: 215-249-3089. r/d May 4

April 28

“Country Jades” free live country music 10am-2pm in Event Rm 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd.

Paddle Raffle Fundraiser at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry St, Quakertown. $10/one paddle and one door prize entry. Doors open 12noon. FMI: BPWQuakertown@gmail.com

Food Festival fundraiser 12noon-4pm at Sellersville Firehouse, 2 N Main St. Food trucks, Vendors, Raffles, Face painting, DJ, more. www.rampacks.com

May 3

Order Hoagies by today for pickup May 13 at Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 N Main St. To order call Karen at 267-372-1404

May 4

Richland Twp Police Dept ‘Drug Takeback’

10am-2pm, r/s at Police Dept, 229 California Rd, Quakertown. Drug Takeback Bin located in lobby. Bin is available Mon-Fri from 8:30am-4:30pm. NO syringes or inhalers!

Indoor Flea Market/Craft Show/Soup Sale

10am-2pm at Tylersport Fire Co Aux, 125 Ridge Rd, Telford. 8’ Tables $25, Soup $10/ qt. Chicken Noodle, Vegetable, Split Pea. Call 215-257-5900 ext 7. Leave name & message, we’ll call back.

7th Annual Locally Grown Showcase

10am-3pm at Upper Salford Park, 559 Salford Station Rd, Schwenksville. Local food/farm products, crafts/artists, raffles, kids’ fun, music, entertainment, food trucks. r/d June 1.

STBPW.ORG

Create a Spring Wreath by Just One More Plant at 1pm, Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 N Main St. Advance tickets only. $55 includes all supplies. Must be purchased by April 19. Contact Ecarr58@gmail.com

May 4 & 5

Mother’s Day Fashion Show of Costumes & Afternoon Tea, 12noon-4pm at DCP Theatre, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Tea/Fashion show $40, Fashion Show only $15. Advance tickets only! Dcptheatre.org/mother-s-day-fashion-show-tea

Baby Boomers Dominate Homeownership, Especially in PA

Recent Studies have found older Americans continue to dominate homeownership with 53.6% of current homeowners being baby boomer age, according to an analysis by Construction Coverage using U.S. Census Bureau data.

The 55 and older folks have dominated homeownership for years. At the onset of the Great Recession in 2008, Americans in this group owned 44.3% of homes. In 2021, that percentage had increased to 54.2%. In 2022, homeownership for those 55 and older finally decreased, albeit slightly, to 53.6%. Homeowners under 35 made up 12.2% and homeowners ages 35-54 made up 34.2%.

Pennsylvania had the 12th most baby boomer homeowners by state with 39.4% of homeowners being boomers (1,440,431 boomer-owned households). For further context, boomers made up 23.0% of the state’s overall population and the median Pennsylvania home price was $256,703.

Nationally, baby boomers dominated homeownership in many New England states in 2022, especially in New

Hampshire (42.5%), Vermont (42.0%) and Maine (41.7%). Delaware led the country with the most boomer homeowners (42.7%), and warmer states to the south and the west also had more older homeowners. In comparison, Midwest homes were significantly less likely to be owned by boomers. At the time, boomers (then ages 58-76) made up just over 20% of the country’s population.

It’s a growing trend for older Americans to age in place, which can partly account for their continuing majority share in homeownership. According to AARP, 77% of Americans over the age of 50 would prefer to remain in their current home instead of moving in with family, to a nursing home or to an assisted living facility as they age. This may contribute to low inventory issues for new buyers as existing homes owned by boomers stay off the market.

If you want to talk more about this topic, call me, I’d love to chat with you!

Sue Deily haS been a RealtoR foR oveR 35 yeaRS, ReSiDeS in the uppeR buckS county aRea anD enjoyS SeRving heR clientS in buckS, lehigh, anD MontgoMeRy countieS contact heR at SueSellShouSeS@gMail coM

Pursuing your retirement dreams is challenging enough without making some common, and very avoidable, mistakes. Here are eight big mistakes to steer clear of, if possible.

No Strategy: Yes, the biggest mistake is having no strategy at all. Without a strategy, you may have no goals, leaving you no way of knowing how you’ll get there—and if you’ve even arrived. Creating a strategy may increase your potential for success, both before and after retirement.

Frequent Trading: Chasing “hot” investments often leads to despair. Create an asset allocation strategy that is properly diversified to reflect your objectives, risk tolerance, and time horizon; then make adjustments based on changes in your personal situation, not due to market ups and downs.1

of tapping your savings so you’re not selling stocks when prices are depressed.3

Retiring with Too Much Debt: If too much debt is bad when you’re making money, it can be deadly when you’re living in retirement. Consider managing or reducing your debt level before you retire.

It’s Not Only About Money: Above all, a rewarding retirement requires good health, so maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, stay socially involved, and remain intellectually active.

"Some people can't be fooled on April Fool's Day because they were fooled too many times during their entire lifetime." - Akash B Chandran

Ponderings by Palma

BY PALMA MOYER, RN

It has often been said life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’ll get. I say it’s all candy. This is how I feel about being a foster parent.

When I was younger, I had a foster child. I came in to this by accident. My husband at the time was a social worker, and worked with children to keep them safe. One night around 6 PM he came home with a 6-month-old baby boy. He said the emergency home was full and he didn’t know what to do with him so he brought him home . Not being prepared for a baby I had to go to Walmart and get supplies. The baby was thin, pale, with a big belly, and signs of malnutrition. I took him to our doctor who said he was malnourished, had rickets, and needed vitamins and good food. After a while my oldest son said, what is wrong with Keith’s head? Sure, enough it was bigger on one side. Back to the doctor. It was discovered that he had a hairline fracture and was leaking cerebral fluid. Nothing to do but keep him from falling. It seemed

that his 6-year-old sister was trying to care for him and dropped him down the stairs.

After we had all his issues under control, Keith became the most beautiful child ever. He had blond curly hair, chubby rosy cheeks and big blue eyes. People laughed when they saw him with my two boys who had dark brown hair and mediterranean features. They all asked where he came from. We were all one happy family. When his case worker asked if we would mind if Keith were to be adopted with his biological brother, we thought it was in his best interest to be with his brother, and let him go. It was a hard choice but the experience of being there to jump start the little fellow was rewarding.

I wish to encourage anyone who is considering becoming a foster parent to do it. It is a great feeling to know that you can help a child have a better life.

~ As Always, Palma Moyer, RN

palMa iS a 1957 gRaDuate of teMple univeRSity hoSpital School of nuRSing. She ShaReS heR expeRienceS anD peRSpectiveS on nuRSing anD on life. She enjoyS heaRing fRoM you at DonthelpMeMoyeR@aol coM

Not Maximizing Tax-Deferred Savings: Workers have tax-advantaged ways to save for retirement. Not participating in your employer’s 401(k) may be a mistake, especially when you’re passing up free money in the form of employer-matching contributions.2

Prioritizing College Funding over

Retirement: Your kids’ college education is important, but you may not want to sacrifice your retirement for it. Remember, you can get loans and grants for college, but you can’t for your retirement.

Overlooking Healthcare Costs: Extended care may be an expense that can undermine your financial strategy for retirement if you don’t prepare for it.

Not Adjusting Your Investment

Approach Well Before Retirement: The last thing your retirement portfolio can afford is a sharp fall in stock prices and a sustained bear market at the moment you’re ready to stop working. Consider adjusting your asset allocation in advance

1. The return and principal value of stock prices will fluctuate as market conditions change. And shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Asset allocation and diversification are approaches to help manage investment risk. Asset allocation and diversification do not guarantee against investment loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

2. Under the SECURE Act, in most circumstances, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plan in the year you turn 73. Withdrawals from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plans are taxed as ordinary income, and if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty."

3. The return and principal value of stock prices will fluctuate as market conditions change. And shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Asset allocation is an approach to help manage investment risk. Asset allocation does not guarantee against investment loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

thiS aRticle waS SubMitteD by bob poDRaza of RobeRt jaMeS inveStMentS at 1313 weSt bRoaD StReet, QuakeRtown he can be ReacheD at 215-583-5013 oR at RobeRtjaMeSinveStMentS coM

Regina MaRie BaRkanic, 72, of Coopersburg, passed away at home on March 18, 2024. She was born in Darby, PA on February 24, 1952 to the late William and Claire (Smith) Daloia. She was the loving wife of John Anthony Barkanic for 12 years and were together for 33 years.

Regina worked for UKM for over 20 years. She enjoyed going to the beach with her family. Regina loved traveling, seeing new places, and trying the food in all those new places. She followed along with all of her grandchildren, supporting them in their various endeavors, especially sports, dance, and chorus. Regina is survived by her husband; children Stephen Mattai, Vanessa (Corey) Lentz, Michael (Lauren) Barkanic, and Dana (Jerry) Hildebrand; 7 grandchildren, Devon, Olivia, Cayden, Ty, Jimmy, Kylee, and Ben; brother William (Margaret) Daloia; and many other loving family and friends. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

kathleen "kathy" (tRoxel) BaRth, 82 of Quakertown PA, peacefully entered our Lord's arms on March 4, 2024, in the care of family.

~Obituaries~

by all the locals, especially when it was apple cider time.

Kathy worked for decades as a bus driver for Levy School Bus company in Trumbauersville, PA, driving special needs students. She was a long-term resident and always active in the Quakertown Community, participating in many parades with her horse, Shonie. She enjoyed traveling with her husband across the country, playing cards and yard sales. She got joy in seeing and riding trains, sharing this passion with her oldest son. She also regularly stopped by Casey's Place and Brick Tavern. She loved the Lord, her husband and her family. She maintained a tight-knit circle of lifetime friends with whom she regularly kept in touch. She would always be there for anyone who needed help (or a hug). She will be remembered for all the love she shared and will be missed dearly.

Kathy was an active member and a Eucharistic minister at Saint Isidore Catholic Church in Quakertown PA for over 50 years.

ShiRley a. BaRtMan, 87 of Quakertown died Thursday March 14, 2024, in her home.

Born in Trumbauersville, she was the daughter of the late Daniel Sevison and the late Jennie (Markley) Hillegas.

Before her retirement she was a sewing machine operator for the former AG Pants Factory in Perkasie.

Shirley was an avid reader and enjoyed playing cards with her friends at the Grundy House. She was a dog lover and truly missed her late Minnie Pincher, Cody. She is survived by three daughters: Bonnie Lane of Cookeville, TN, Sherry Sentiwany (Jack) of White Haven, PA, and Debra Winkler of Easton, PA. Her siblings Arthur Hillegas (Janet) of Quakertown, PA, Leonard Hillegas (Susan) of Allentown, PA and Joan Hillegas of Telford, PA. Nine grandchildren Sandra, James, John, Nicole, Julie, James, Richard, Deborah, and Jamie and numerous great and great great grandchildren.

ing her famous fried fish, grits, and biscuits. Leah will be dearly missed by her children, Rodney Blanks Jr. (Toni Albanese), Helen Blanks, Keith Blanks (Sharon), Garth Blanks (Lisa), and Kim Blanks; 9 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

DoRothy a. DRuMhelleR, AKA Dottie or Snookie, 82, of Quakertown, passed away on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at St. Luke's Hospice House, Bethlehem.

Born on November 9, 1941, in Niantic, PA, she was a daughter of the late Russell and Mary (Moser) Drumheller.

Dottie spent much of her time tending to the small family farm, as she loved being surrounded by the horses, goats, dogs, cats, and other animals. She also enjoyed cooking, baking, sewing, and listening to country music. Above all, though, she loved spending time with her grandchildren.

Kathy was born in Lansdale PA, December 7, 1941 to the late Stephanie (Satek) Troxel and Wilmer Jacob Troxel.

She graduated from Lansdale Catholic High School in Lansdale, PA. Upon graduation, she worked for Bell Telephone as a switchboard operator. She's always loved animals and kept many horses throughout the years.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, H. Edward "Ed" Barth. After marriage, they lived in Guam while Ed served in the Airforce. They later settled in the early 1970s at their farm in Quakertown, PA where they raised their three boys. Over the years, she kept pigs, had several horses and a large garden, where she grew sweet corn, pumpkins and tomatoes. Her roadside stand was favored

Kathy is survived by her sister Annette (Troxel) Tustin and sons, David Barth and his wife, Rachel, Brian Barth and his wife, Kristen Demshock, Christopher Barth and his partner, Toni Becker, and grandchildren Annika, Amelia, Bree and Megan. Her grandchildren referred to her as 'Mom Pop".

A mass will be held on Friday, April 19 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Isidore's Catholic Church, 2545 W. Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown PA 18951. Call from 9:30am to 10:30am at the church.

Interment will be in Quakertown Union Cemetery.

Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to Last Chance Ranch 9 Beck Road Quakertown PA 18951. 215-538-2510. www.lastchanceranch.org/donate/

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by two grandchildren Dawn and Jeremy and her siblings Terry Hillegas, Geraldine Shearer, Judy Cressman, Marilyn Bosschetto and Mary Allem.

Graveside services were held Friday March 22, 2024in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery Ridge Valley, 910 Allentown Rd. Sellersville PA 18960.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in memory of Shirley can be made to the Salvation Army, 560 S. Main St., Quakertown, PA 18951.

Arrangements in the loving care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown, PA.

leah M. BlankS, 85, of Whitehall, PA, passed away on March 11th, 2024, in her home. Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late John Bishop and the late Helen (Greene) Bishop. Leah is predeceased by her husband, Rodney Blanks Sr. and her siblings, Evelyn, Sarah, Shirley, Doris, John, and David. Leah grew up in Sellersville, PA, and attended Pennridge High School. She later went on to work at Ametek US Gauge and retired in 1984. Leah was a woman of strong faith. Leah enjoyed going on walks, fishing, traveling, and cook-

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husbands: Artie H. Snyder, Jr., who passed away in 1997, and Edward C. Deschler, who passed away in 2014; two brothers: Frederick Bilger and Russell Drumheller; two sisters: Katheryne Raysor and Stella Mentzer; one sister-in-law Jeanette Drumheller and three brothers-in-law: Harold Raysor, James Darrah and Richard Mentzer.

Dottie will be lovingly remembered by her daughter: Sherry Holzerman (Ken); four sons: Lee Deschler (Pam), Bruce Deschler, Tyrone Deschler (Lonna), and Wayne Snyder; two brothers: William Drumheller and John Drumheller (Margie); one sister: Mildred Darrah; one sister-in-law: Marian Bilger. Additional survivors include eleven grandchildren: Christopher, Alyssa, Emily, and Nicholas Deschler; Bruce Deschler, Jr. and Derrick Deschler; Kristie, Stevie, Tyrone, Jr., and Leona Deschler; and Taylor Snyder; eight great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Per Dottie's wishes, services will be private. Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

~Obituaries~

RoBeRt lee Finch, 92, of Upper Black Eddy, PA, passed away on March 3rd, 2024, at his home.

Born in Pittsburg, PA, Robert was the son of the late George (Green) Rutherford Finch and the late Ida (Cunningham) McGinnis.

Robert is predeceased by his wife, Suzanne Finch, together they shared 70 years of marriage; and his three brothers, Russel, Irwin, and Tom.

Robert attended Dobbins Vo Tech School in Philadelphia and it was there he met his wife, Suzanne. He then continued his education at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts where he received his Bachelor’s degree. Robert was head of the Art Department at The Haverford School and was dedicated to teaching his students. Robert will be dearly missed by his children Richard (Pam), Susan (Michel), and Amy; six grandchildren; and two great-grandsons.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

kevin neil FReeD, of Tylersport, formerly of Telford, passed away suddenly on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at his residence. He was 62. Born in Sellersville, he was the son of Joan D. (Wimmer) Freed, of Tylersport, and the late Calvin H. Freed. Kevin was a graduate of Souderton High School. Kevin was a machinist, who had been employed at various local machine shops over the years. Most recently, he had worked in the lawn care and landscaping field.

A former member of the Tylersport Volunteer Fire Company, Kevin was also active with Great Swamp Fish and Game, of Quakertown. An avid outdoorsman, Kevin especially loved hunting and fishing. As a younger man, he had also enjoyed snowmobiling and weekend getaways at his cabin at Promised Land State Park, Greentown.

In addition to his mother, Kevin is survived by his sister, Sandy Davis, of Arizona; a niece, Crystal Davis, of Center Valley; and several cousins.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a nephew, Christopher Cupchak. His memorial service was held on March 16 in Ridge Valley United Church of Christ, Sellersville. Interment was in Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery, Perkasie. Memorial donations in Kevin’s name may be made to Ridge Valley United Church of Christ, 905 Allentown Road, Sellersville, PA 18960 or to the Tylersport Volunteer Fire Company, 125 Ridge Road, Tylersport, PA 18971.

Betty Meier Steeley Funeral Home, Sellersville. www.steeleyfuneralhome.com

hoMeR J. hall of Quakertown, PA, died peacefully on March 1st, 2024, at the age of 85.

Homer is survived by his wife, Donna J. Hall, who he was married to for 41 years. He is also survived by his 5 children, Steven Hall and wife, Dana; Scott Hall and wife, Becky; Sherrill Miller and husband, Mike; Robert Smith; and Kimberly Smith Hamada. Homer was dedicated to his 9 grandchildren; Chase, Chad, Lauren, Lindsay, Cassidy, Chloe, Luke, Eric, and Morgan. Homer is also survived by his siblings, Dale Hall and Dorris Buchanan.

Homer was born on January 30, 1939, to Jay and Mabel Hall of Hartsville, PA. He graduated from William Tennent High School in 1956. He was employed by Merck & Co., West Point, PA, for 36 years, after which time he retired from his position as Fire Chief.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

Janet v. kReSge, 88, of Quakertown, passed away in her home on Sunday, March 24, 2024, surrounded by family.

Born on February 3, 1936, she was a daughter of the late Andrew E. and Pauline (Ulmer) Walker.

A graduate of Palisades High School’s Class of 1953, Janet went on to work for her father’s fuel company, Walker, Inc., where she served as a secretary until her retirement in 1995. She was a member of Zion Hill Evangelical Lutheran Church.

In her spare time, she found joy in phone conversations, cheering for the Phillies, com-

pleting Word Search puzzles, embroidery, and watching the birds in her backyard.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband: Leroy Kresge, who died on August 13, 2018; one son: Andrew A. Kresge, who died on May 18, 2018; her sister: Loretta DiFrancesco; and her son-in-law: William Batcsics, Jr.

Janet will be lovingly remembered by her son: Timothy S. Kresge; two daughters: Cynthia L. Desris (Joseph) and Sandra L. Batcsics; one brother: Andrew Earl Walker; five grandchildren: Joey Desris (Alissa), Fawnia Celone (Joe), Shawna Kresge, Kenneth Batcsics (Steph), and Derek Batcsics (Liz); and eleven great-grandchildren: Joseph, Paige, Cayden, Teagyn, Shealyn, Greyson, Brice, Ryleigh, Landon, Connor, and Madelyn.

A visitation will be held at the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., 821 West Broad Street, Quakertown, on Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 9:30am until the time of the service, in the funeral home, at 11:00am.

Interment will follow in St. John’s Lutheran Church Cemetery, Spinnerstown. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Zion Hill Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2966 Old Bethlehem Pike, Zion Hill, PA 18981.

MaRie RoSe lococo, 94, of Quakertown, passed away on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at LifeQuest, Quakertown.

Born on April 6, 1929, in Manhattan, New York, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary Marino.

Marie will be lovingly remembered by her husband: Thomas Lococo; son: Joseph Lococo (Sureya); daughter: Francine Blatz (Stephen); four grandchildren: Jennifer Connolly, Joseph Lococo, Marie Blatz, and Stephen Blatz; and two great-grandchildren: Parker James Connolly and Cayden Thomas Connolly.

A private entombment was held on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, in Woodbridge Memorial Gardens, Woodbridge, New Jersey.

Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

RoSeMaRy PatRicia Mcveigh, 74, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on March 8, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Philadelphia, Rosemary was the daughter of the late Francis McVeigh and the late Rosalie (Sampson) McVeigh.

Rosemary grew up in North Philadelphia and graduated from Cardinal Dougherty High School in 1969.

She worked at and later retired from Greene Tweed. Rosemary loved to travel and take road trips across America.

In her free time, she enjoyed listening to music, gardening, walking her dogs, and watching the Eagles and Phillies.

Rosemary will be dearly missed by her lifelong friend, Diane; her siblings, Jim (Susan) and Margaret (Kelton); and her nieces and nephews, Spencer (Nathalie), Sarah, Chase, Madison, Joanne and Heather.

Rosemary is predeceased by her brother, John.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Rosemary's name to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

leRoy g. MoRgan JR., 79, formerly of Sellersville, passed away, with his daughters by his side, on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024, at St Lukes Hospice in Bethlehem.

He was married to the love of his life, Judith A (Dedrick) Morgan for 32 years until her passing in 2007.

Born in Philadelphia on January 28, 1945, he was the son of the late LeRoy G. Morgan Sr. and Margaret J. (McCurdy) Morgan.

Lee is survived by his two daughters: Jennifer Romendio (Vincent, Kimbralee Haberle (Christian); five grandchildren: Xander and Xavier Romendio; Austin, Brice, and Colt Haberle. He is also survived by his sister, Mary (Morgan) Batchelor, his niece, Robin and nephew, Ray, along with his sister-in-law, Linda Dedrick and nephew Joseph.

Lee was predeceased by his parents, “Buzz” and Peggy, his wife, Judy, his granddaughter, Willow Ann Romendio and his brother-in-law, Ron Batchelor.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

RoBeRt ‘BoB’ alan PePkowSki, 77, of Perkasie, passed away on March 11, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Doylestown, Bob was the son of the late John Pepkowski and the late Ethel (Fretz) Overdorf.

Bob grew up in Point Pleasant and later moved to Souderton. He graduated from Souderton High School in 1964. Bob enlisted in the Army National Guard and proudly served for 12 years.

Bob was passionate about coaching, and he was his grandchildren’s biggest fan, and he was always at their sporting events, supporting and cheering them on.

Bob will be dearly missed by his wife, Nona, together they shared 57 years of marriage; his children, Matthew (Kimberly), Erica (Kevin), and Trevor (Melissa); his grandchildren, Austin, Matthew Jr., Makenna, Morgan, Carter, Kamryn, Taylor, and Peyton. Bob is predeceased by his brothers, Charles, and John II.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

RoBeRt Michal RaPkin, known to all as Bob, was born on January 14, 1940 in the Bronx to Rose (Suprin) and Bernard Rapkin. He attended East Orange high school. He went to Lafayette College, where he majored in English. He then attended medical school at Tufts University. He completed his internship at Mt. Auburn Hospital and his residency in Psychiatry at Boston State Hospital, where he met the love of his life, Bonnie Stark Rapkin who predeceased him.

He is survived by his daughter Meredith Rapkin, son in law Neil Toensmeier, and beloved grandson Isaac. He is further survived by his son Jonathan Rapkin and daughter in law Elaine, along with many friends and extended family who loved him dearly. His ashes will be buried alongside Bonnie in the North Jackson Cemetery in Susquehanna County, PA.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

PatRicia ann "Pat" SchneiDeR, 87, of Perkasie, passed away on March 18, 2024. She was born in Doylestown, PA on March 29, 1936 to the late H. Kenneth and Alice (Slaughter) Shelly.

She was the loving wife Paul J. Schneider Jr. for over 45 years until his passing in 2005.

Pat worked for Doylestown Hospital for over 20 years. She was a kind and loving person and kept active with numerous organizations. Pat was an avid gardener and maintained her plants right through her last years at home.

Pat is survived by her daughters Susan (William Buckley) Michael and Sharon (Nick) Basciano; grandchildren Greg (Ashley), Tim, Olivia, and Alice; great grandchildren Sophia, Claire, and Charlotte; brother Frank Shelly; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; husband; son Paul J. Schneider III; and granddaughter Morgan Basciano.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

RoSeMaRy ShulMan, 75, of Coopersburg, passed away at her home on February 26, 2024.

She was born in Detroit, MI on June 2, 1948 to the late Squire and Victoria (Roberts) Johnson.

She was the loving wife of Jeremy Shulman for 46 years.

Rosemary just wanted to love and be loved by those around her. She was a fantastic wife and mother. She spent most of her life in healthcare as a nurse and EMT. In her downtime she always enjoyed reading.

Rosemary is survived by her husband Jeremy; and daughters Nicole Shulman and Sasha Shulman.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Rosemary's name can be made to Habitat for Humanity.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

kathRyn teReSa SteckeR, 82, of Easton, PA, passed away on March 10, 2024, at St. Luke’s Anderson Hospital.

Born in Quakertown, PA, she was the daughter of the late Lovenna “Jeff” Scholl and the late Henrietta (Siegrist) Scholl.

Kathryn graduated from Quakertown High School in 1961. She grew up with horses and loved going on rides. She went on to work at American Olean Tile in Quakertown.

When Kathryn was younger, she loved to go out and dance. In her free time, she enjoyed spending time with her dogs.

Kathryn will be dearly missed by her children, Terri (Richard); Robert Jr., (Melissa), Heidi (Richard), and Eric (Amy); her 19 grandchildren; her 16 great-grandchildren; her partner, Eric Benner; her dogs, Sophie and Molly; and her extended family.

Kathryn is predeceased by her daughter, Robin and her siblings, Billy and Grace.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

claiRe JuDith SzakacS-ciccaRone a woman with a heart of gold, an old soul who was loved by all especially her family, died March 20, 2024, in St. Luke’s HospitalBethlehem Campus.

An animal advocate, proud Hungarian American, bold Capricorn, and world traveler. You would hear her first before you saw her, always putting others first and was a mom to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. A rockstar who enjoyed spending time in nature and being her kids and grandsons #1 fanespecially her favorite, the family dog Kahlua. Claire was an enthusiast enjoying her favorite holiday, Halloween.

She is survived by her husband Frank of 35 years this August, her oldest daughter Daniella, sons Michael (Carolyn) and Phillip (Karena Homan), two grandsons Thomas Ciccarone to whom she was known as “Gum Gum” and Giovanni Ciccarone.

She is united with her youngest baby Lillian, who will meet her in heaven as they dance together to Led Zeppelin.

Services will be private. Arrangements in the loving care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Last Chance Ranch, 9 Beck Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951, in honor of Claire’s unwavering commitment and passion for all animals no matter how big or small.

helen PatRicia theyS-Mallick (nee Johnson) of Quakertown, PA, passed away at her home on March 1st, 2024, at the age of 73. Born on October 14th, 1950 to the late Cora and Charles Johnson, she was a loving daughter, wife, and friend.

Helen is survived by her husband, Frank Mallick; and special friends, Stephanie Carney, Mary Meck, and Laura Craig.

Helen graduated in 1968 from Emerson High

School in Union City, NJ. She also studied at Laboratory Institute of Merchandising in 1971. After working various jobs, Helen found a home with Rite-Aid and worked for many years as a pharmacist assistant. She also worked as a union steward for UFCW.

Helen enjoyed reading romance novels and books on holistic medicine. Her greatest joys in life were helping to solve people’s problems and working with the union negotiating for her union family.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

Paul M. weiSBRoD, 62, of Quakertown, passed away on February 26, 2024.

Paul was the caring son of Marie Vandegrift Weisbrod and Paul Weisbrod Sr. Brother to Linda Rae (Tony) Seroski, James (Cheryl) Weisbrod, Debra (Kurt) Ghering, and George Weisbrod. Paul is also survived by many

nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Paul was a very kind and generous man, welcoming friends to share his home whenever someone needed help.

He was an avid fisherman and hunter. A funeral was held on Friday, March 1 at Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 135 W. Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951 Interment at Zion Hill Cemetery followed. In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Luke's Hospice House, 2455 Black River Rd., Bethlehem, PA 18015.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

D. RichaRD “Dick” wiMMeR, JR., age 79, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, passed away on March 11, 2024, at Phoebe Richland Cottage.

He was the husband of Rosemary (Nee Shuhler) Wimmer, with whom he shared nearly 48 years of marriage.

Born in Sellersville, PA, he was a son of the late Donald Richard Wimmer Sr. and the late Beatrice Weaver Wimmer.

Richard graduated from Quakertown High School in 1962.

He honorably and proudly served our country in the United States Naval Construction Battalions, better known as the Navy Seabees during the Vietnam War.

In addition to his wife Rosie, he is survived by two sons, Michael Wimmer and his wife, Lisarose; and Jason Wimmer and his wife, Corey; one brother, Dennis Wimmer and his wife, Barbara; and five grandchildren, Audra, Olivia, Callen, Ryan and Marleah.

He was predeceased by a brother Roger.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

Township for U.S. Air Force Maj. Donald Richard Kemmerer, an Upper Bucks airman who was lost with his plane during the Vietnam War.

A member of the 390th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Kemmerer was flying an attack mission Aug. 6, 1967, in the Quang Binh Province of Vietnam when his F-4C Phantom II aircraft was struck by ground fire and crashed into the sea. The 26-yearold's remains were never recovered, and he was declared missing in action.

“On behalf of my fellow Commissioners, we are honored to dedicate our first bridge of 2024 to Quakertown native Maj. Kemmerer, who went MIA in 1967,” said Commissioner Chair Diane EllisMarseglia. “It is our hope, through these solemn dedications to the Bucks County men we lost in the Vietnam War, that their sacrifices will never be forgotten, and their legacies will live on forever in the places they called home.”

The bridge named for Kemmerer crosses Tohickon Creek along Erie Road just outside Quakertown Borough.

Kemmerer, a native of Quakertown,

State University where he participated in the ROTC program. He graduated college in 1963 and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force.

The Air Force promoted Kemmerer to major after he was declared missing. Kemmerer left behind a wife and son.

The bridge in Richland Township is the seventh county-owned bridge since 2022 to be named for a local soldier lost in the Vietnam War. The dedications are part of the County’s Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bridge Program, which honors the 136 Bucks County residents lost in the Vietnam War. The County administers the program in partnership with Bucks County-based veterans’ advocate Ed Preston and the Pennsylvania Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (PAVVMF).

To learn more about the program and the men it is meant to honor, visit BucksCounty.gov/MemorialBridges.

Naomi Naylor Named Quakertown BPW 2024 'Rising Star'

SZAKACS-CICCARONE continued from page 7

photos by andrew hemark

Congratulations to Quakertown Alive! executive director Naomi Johnson-Naylor who is the inaugural recipient of the Quakertown Business and Professional Women’s Rising Star Award. Naomi received $500 to donate to a non-profit organization of her choice. She, of course, chose Quakertown Alive!

QCSD Cuts Ribbon on New Multi-Purpose Athletic Field

Quakertown Community School District’s new multi-purpose athletic field was celebrated during a ribbon cutting event on March 22.

Students, athletes, parents, school board members, administrators, and local government officials attended the event at the field next to the Sixth Grade Center on the corner of S. 9th Street and Main Street in Quakertown Borough.

Head varsity baseball coach Jonathan Pallone thanked the district for prioritizing the creation of the new much needed field, calling it “a place [for athletic programs] to call their own during those crucial months of March and early April.”

Superintendent Dr. Matthew Friedman

Times of our Lives

Recently a whole new thought came to me with the re-birth of the urge to educate the persons living in and around this historic area of Upper Bucks and my lifelong interest in educating people of the “whole story” of why the Fries Rebellion occurred.

Was it my first job as a teenager or graduating from QCHS or my first job at Berman Sales Company, meeting my future wife, marriage----the list goes on. Each of these milestones in a life now spanning 8 decades has a special meaning. I really can not justify ranking any of these as more important or least important. As a person born in a rural area (at the time), educated in schools that were known as one-room schools at first.

Working for Jim Scully, a mentor of my life, getting married to my wonderful wife, Nina, and sharing such great events

that I never would have ever imagined, who could pick one event over another? These are all cherished and were part of the life of many born during the Second World War or shortly thereafter. Did we really live in the best of times? I wish to think so, but every generation states the same. When we first were able to vote and just prior to that, politicians ACTUALLY discussed issues and possible solutions instead of how bad the other person is! I still have in my “Kids remembrance box in that attic a wrapped bubble gum cigar with the wrapper saying “I like Ike.”

All the memories stated above are the building blocks for a successful life for most people. I am proud to say that I am a veteran of military service. On March 27th a little driven over bridge between Elm Street and the former Flatland Mennonite church and cemetery on Thatcher Road was dedicated and named the Donald R. Kemmerer Memorial Bridge. Major Kemmerer graduated from Quakertown

a few years before me and was an F-4c Phantom pilot in Vietnam. On a mission lst Lt. (at the time) Kemmerer, pilot, and Major (Caption at the time) Albert L. Page, JR, aircraft commander was hit by enemy fire over North Vietnam, hopefully ejected, and their aircraft crashed at sea. They were casualties and are still among those MIA (Missing in Action.) Donald Kemmerer missed out on those “Normal” joys of those my age. This brings me back to the subject of “Times of our Lives”. Being a veteran and called to service right at the start of a conflict somehow will always stand out as something entirely different. I will always remember Steve Harris who shared a 8 man tent with me, they were so overwhelmed with draftees and volunteers in May of 1965 they didn’t even have barracks for us for basic training. We went on to Ft. Knox, for Armored Intelligence training (Forward Observer). He was killed 16 August 1966. He too missed out on these normal joys in life. How can this not be something that will always be burned into my heart and soul as a special time in my life!

I am writing this on a rainy Saturday prior to March 27th. I hopefully wish that there will be a good attendance for the dedication that Wednesday morning.

Regretfully with rainy weather predicted and people’s memory of Vietnam is dimmed, probably attendance will be light. Veterans will be there! We will never forget! So sometime after you read this, I ask a favor of you—sometime when you are in town go out Elm Avenue, go over the new bridge that replaced the “Humpty” bridge near towns and continue towards the Stoneback Farms. At this little-known bridge, STOP and render thanks for the life of this local hero

Donald R. Kemmerer! Remember he is still listed as MIA. Never forget them. Even though Vietnam is now a major actor in world trade and manufacturing, do they still have those we honor as MIA?

as we remember “Those times of our live” let us not forget the True History of those who served be it John Fries back in the time of our countries Revolutionary War or Donald Kemmerer who stepped forward to keep us safe and free! I, as a veteran, will always honor and respect them, knowing the feelings in my heart of Duty, Honor, Country. Now and forever! This certainly was a special time of my life!

Dick helM iS a long tiMe QuakeRtown aRea ReSiDent anD RegulaR contRibutoR heRe at ubfp. Reach hiM at Rbh9@veRizon net

Quakertown Community School District celebrated the unveiling of its new multi-purpose athletic field with a lively community grand opening and ribbon cutting event. The Board of School Directors threw the ceremonial first pitch, followed by the first home game of the season by the Panthers varsity high school baseball team. submitted photos

QCHS Alumni Spotlight:

Cheryl Stoneback, Class of 1963

BY RAY FOX '66

It is indeed a pleasure to write this Spotlight Article about Cheryl Stoneback, Class of 1963. I must admit that I have never met Cheryl and unfortunately the suggestion of writing about her did not come until after she passed away. I want to thank longtime friend and former QCHS administrator James Newcomer for recommending that I write about her. I also want to thank another former QCHS ad ministrator, Douglas Fraley, for some of the quotes I will use. The person who de serves special thanks is her nephew Barry Stoneback, a current QCHS teacher.

I will start by saying that, as I did the research for this article I kept thinking, how could it be that I never met her. More importantly is the thought that I wish I had met her. Cheryl’s life was full of so many wonderful events due to her compassion for others, her intellect, and her commit ment to making life better for everyone she met.

relationship with anyone at any time. She loved the Eugene Poem about Wynken, Blyken and Nod. I recommend reading the poem but will not print it here. Although viewed by most people as a lullaby for children, there is a much deeper meaning to the poem as it can be understood in a much more adult way. The in-depth way of interpreting it is that it gives us a glimpse into how to live life. It can help with dealing with the struggle of aging

Cheryl graduated from QCHS in 1963. During high school she was a genuine scholar and an all-round athlete. She contributed her literary talent to the school newspaper, Quaker Challenge, and the Recall where she was the editor of the Senior section. Her activities also included student government, three years of basketball, field hockey, and softball. She was a three-year member of Tri-Hi-Y, mixed chorus, a home room treasurer, and a member of the National Honor Society.

After high school Cheryl graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Ursinus University and a master’s degree from Temple University. This launched her into her first career. She had a thirty-plus year career as a social worker and then director of the Bucks County Agency on Aging. It was here that her tremendous empathy for others was a great asset. Her nephew, Barry, said, “she was the most caring and empathic person I have ever known.” Throughout her life, in both her careers and beyond, she was always a giver, not a receiver. Atter her “retirement” from her county position, she returned to school and attended the Moravian Seminary obtaining a second master’s degree as a stellar student.

This brought her to her second career in the ministry. She was an extremely committed member of First UCC in Quakertown where she was in the choir and served as a musician as well. Fellow parishioner, Doug Fraley, remembers her as “a very faithful and devoted member of the church.” He said, “she is the nicest person I have ever met.” She loved her immediate family and her church family. As a pastor at her church in Sumneytown she was known as a terrific speaker and orator. She officiated at many services, weddings, and funerals until she retired for the second time in 2015.

There are many things that Cheryl loved in life. One of them was the ability to know and care for people in both of her professions. She was always known as a great listener who could develop a

Another favorite of Cheryl’s was giving gifts to others. One of her favorite gifts was giving a wide variety of lights to people. Lights of all kinds were included as gifts to others but one of her favorite lights to give was Christmas lights. I cannot help but think that, just as she shared the light of these gifts to others, she was also a bright light in the world of caring about others. Another favorite of hers was fishing. She loved any kind of fishing including ice fishing and deep-sea fishing. She kept a fishing pole in her car and at her front door in hopes that the opportunity to go fishing would present itself. Some people like to go fishing but struggle to catch much. She was known as an incredibly talented and successful fisherman. Her picture, included with this article, show one of her many successful fishing trips. Again, I cannot help but draw an analogy between her fishing and her “fishing for men” as a pastor. Seems like she just had a gift to be particularly good at both kinds of fishing. Cheryl’s love for music and her keen memory allowed her to share these talents with friends and relatives. Cheryl had quite a library at home which specialized in articles and information about the Quakertown area.

In conclusion, I write this article as a tribute to a life well lived. She made a difference in the lives of so many people. This is especially true of her nieces, nephews, and their children. Hers was a life of service to others, friendships, ministry, mentoring, counseling, and commitment. Her impact on others will be felt for many years to come.

The Quakertown Community Alumni Association encourages alumni to participate in the Association activities. Its mission includes fundraising to provide scholarship opportunities each year for graduating seniors. Please check out our Facebook Pages “Quakertown High School Alumni Association” and the Alumni pages of the QCSD.org website for more information. We are a 501C3 organization and always welcome any contributions toward our scholarship endeavors. If you are interested in donating, please email Qchsalumniboard@gmail. com and you will receive instructions on how to do so. Comments and ideas for future articles can be sent to Ray Fox at rdefox@msn.com.

The Alumni board is a group of dedicated people who strive to support the students and alumni as much as we can. You could say that we “bleed blue” but more importantly, that we embody the commonly known Quakertown mottos: “Enter To Learn; Leave To Serve.”

“April is the cruelest month, breeding lilacs out of the dead land, mixing memory and desire, stirring dull roots with spring rain.” - T.S. Eliot, The Waste Land

The answers to the puzzles on this page are found elsewhere in this issue.

Think Local.

Play Local. Be Local.

Have something to share with your community? Send it to us! UBFP • 582 S. West End Blvd, Ste 2 • Quakertown, PA 18951 info@ubfp.org • fb.com/ubfreepress • www.ubfp.org

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Kathy Babb Honored for 50 Years of Service as Haycock Twp. Supervisor

I would like to publicly express my sincere thanks to Jim Hopkins and Springfield Township for honoring me in such a wonderful way at the Haycock Township Board of Supervisor's meeting on Monday, March 5th. Jim presented me with a citation from Springfield Township recognizing my support in serving Springfield Township and my commitment to the Bucks County community for my longterm involvement and leadership in the Bucks County Association of Township Officials. At the same time, on behalf of Congressman Brian K. Fitzpatrick, Jim presented me with a copy of a

Congressional Record formally adopted at a Congressional proceeding held on December 11, 2023 recognizing me for my service to Haycock Township, to the Bucks County Association of Township Officials, to the Pennsylvania Association of Township Officials and for my dedication to local government. I was also honored with the presentation of a U.S. Flag flown over the United States Capital in recognition of over 50 years of service to our Community and Haycock Township. This is something for which I am both humbled and truly grateful and something that I will treasure forever. ~

Kathy Babb

Quakertown Parks & Rec Department to Host 55th Annual Halloween Parade

The Quakertown Borough Parks and Recreation Department is excited to announce the hosting of the 55th Annual Quakertown Halloween Parade on Sunday, October 20, 2024. The parade, formerly hosted by the Quakertown Lions Club for over a half century, will kick off at 2:00 pm, following its traditional route from 3rd & Juniper Streets to 11th Street, proceeding along 11th Street from Juniper Street to Broad Street, continuing down Broad and concluding at 3rd Street.

As always, attendees can expect a delightful array of flights, costumes, and festive music weaving through the streets of Quakertown.

“We are thrilled to continue the longstanding tradition of the Halloween Parade, which holds a special place in our community’s heart. We are committed to upholding its spirit while adding fresh

elements to ensure this year’s parade is memorable and enjoyable for everyone,” stated Ashton Miller, Director of Parks & Recreation.

One notable update for this year’s parade is the introduction of online registration for participants, available at Quakertownrec. com, making participation more accessible and efficient for all.

The Parks & Recreation Department is actively seeking sponsors to support this community event. Businesses and organizations interested in becoming sponsors of the 55th Annual Halloween Parade are encouraged to visit Quakertown. org/HalloweenParade for more information and sponsorship opportunities. General information and participant registration can also be found there, or contact the Parks and Recreation Department at parksrec@ quakertown.org with questions.

Bible Baptist Church

Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship

Meets at HIghland Park Dining Hall

415 Highland Park Road

Sellersville, PA 18960

484-523-3333

www.biblebaptistcares.org

Pastor: Tom Harris

Bible Study Hour 9:30 am, Morning Worship 10:30 am, Services interpreted for the deaf

Christ Church United Church of Christ 101 N. Main Street

Trumbauersville, PA 18970

215-538-0142

christchurch10@verizon.net

www.christchurchisalive.org

Pastor: David Heckler

A friendly, welcoming church. Change fear into hope, doubt into faith. God is calling. Join us at 11am Sunday. Halleleujah!

Christ’s Lutheran Church

218 East Broad Street

Trumbauersville, PA 18970 215-536-3193

christselca@verizon.net

www.christslutheran.com

9:00am Worship, 10:15 Sunday School, Handicapped accessible, Family Friendly Church. Find us on Facebook!

Church of the Incarnation

44 S. 8th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-3787

Ardores@verizon.net

www.IncarnationQuakertown.org

Pastor: Most Rev. Thomas J. Kleppinger

Traditional worship, Biblical faith Sunday 10:30am, Holy Days as announced. Emmanuel Episcopal Church

560 S. Main Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-3040

emmanuelchurch11@yahoo.com

www.emmanuelquakertown.org

Sunday service at 10am, Visitors and new members always welcome!

First United Church of Christ

151 S. Fourth Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-4447

info@firstUCC.net

Facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertown

Senior Pastor: Rev. Jon C. Bauman

Min. of Visitation & Pastoral Care: Elaine Ely Join us in person Sundays 9:15am Join us online at www.firstUCC.net. Community Lunch

Good News Church

424 Juniper Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-4393

Pastor: David Markey, Jr.

An alternative to the ultra-contemporary Sunday Worship and Children’s Church 10:30 am, Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm, World Evangelism Fellowship affiliate. Grace Bible Fellowship Church 1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N. Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-6096

grace@quakertownbfc.org

www.quakertownbfc.org

Sr. Pastor: Ron Kohl

Sunday School for all ages. 10:10am Morning Worship, Small group meetings 2nd & 4th Sundays 6:30pm; Tues: Ladies Bible Study 9:45am; Wed: AWANA (2 yrs - 6th grade) & Teens for Christ 6:30pm, Adult prayer meeting 6:45pm

Juniper Street Bible Church

317 Juniper Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

267-373-9115

Pastor: Derrick Thompson

www.juniperstreetbiblechurch.org

Worship Sunday 10 am; also live on Facebook and Youtube. Bible study Tuesday 7 pm. We pray you will join us in worship and study.

Morning Star Fellowship

429 S. 9th Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-529-6422

Pastors: John & Theresa Decker

www.mstarqtown.org

Sunday Services at 9 am and 11 am. Our cafe is open with free coffee. Children’s Ministries provided. Celebrate Recovery on Tuesdays at 7 pm. Student Ministries on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. Weekly Connections. For updates and schedule changes, check our website.

Pennridge Christian Fellowship

720 Blooming Glen Rd, Blooming Glen 18911

215-257-7309

pastor@pennridgecf.org

www.pennridgecf.org

Pastor: Thomas Vargis

Multicultural Charismatic church worshipping God in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Our service consists of song service, testimonies, and teaching of the word. Live Spanish translation

Quakertown United Methodist Church 1875 Freier Road

Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4992

barb@qumc.com

www.qumc.com

Pastor: Rev. Richard K. Brown II

Sunday schedule: Worship 8:30 am, Sunday School 9:45 am, Worship 11 am

Communion first Sunday of each month.

St. Isidore Roman Catholic Church 2545 West Pumping Station Rd Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536-4389

Pastor: Rev. Kenneth C. Brabazon

izzyparoff@comcast.net

www.stisidores.org

Sunday Masses - 5:00pm Saturday evenings; 7:00am, 9:00am, & 11:00am on Sunday mornings; 1:00pm in Spanish Sunday afternoons

St. John’s Lutheran Church 4 South Main Street • PO Box 458 Richlandtown, PA 18955 215-536-5027

Admin@stjohnsrpa.org

www.stjohnsrpa.org

Pastor: Rev Dr. David A Genszler

In person worship service Sunday at 9:30 am, Watch our Worship Service anytime on stjohnsrpa.org/sermon or on Facebook. Activity Center Rentals Open, Capacity 125, call 215-536-5027 to book.

St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown 1565 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Spinnerstown 18968 (GPS Quakertown 18951)

215-536-0734

stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com

www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org

Worship Service: 9:30 a.m. Service also is live-streamed on Facebook (St. John’s Lutheran Church, Spinnerstown, PA) and video available on the church website.

PASTOR JON BAUMAN

"He is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed!" is the chant we make every Easter Sunday.

The message of Easter Sunday, or Resurrection Sunday, is a profound and life-changing truth: Jesus Christ rose from the dead; His Body that was dead came back to life. This was no metaphor, this was not a ghost, or a spirit, but a body.

He then spent 40 days with his disciples, and then ascended into heaven. Churches will sometimes dwell on the 40 days of Lent, in dwelling on repentance and preparing ourselves for the message of the Cross and the Resurrection. But what about those 40 days when everything that the disciples thought about life and death, and what comes after...

How can we, as believers in Christ's resurrection, seek to dwell with God differently in these next 40 days?

How does the resurrection of Jesus change how we live, today?

It's the beginning of Spring. Resurrection is happening all around us. The deadness

St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley 910 Allentown Road, West Rockhill Twp 215-257-9643

stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com www.stjohnsridgevalley.com

Pastor: Rev. Lauren Bruno

8:30am Traditional - 10:15am w/praise band. Grape juice & gluten-free wafers available. Adult Forum 9:40, Handicapped accessible. All invited and welcome to Share the Joy! St. John the Baptist Parish 4050 Durham Road, Ottsville 18942 610-847-5521 pastor@stjohnsottsville.org www.stjohnsottsville.org

Pastor: Selvaraj Lucas, MSC

St. John the Baptist, the first Catholic parish in Bucks County, has served the pastoral needs of Catholics since 1743.

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Applebachsville

837 Old Bethlehem Road, Quakertown 215-536-5789 stpaulsqtown@gmail.com www.stpaulsqtown.org

Pastor: Rev. David Heckler

We believe in sharing God’s love in joyful service. Come and see. All are welcome. St. Paul’s United Church of Christ 104 Green Street Sellersville, PA 18960 215-257-7268

Pastor: Rev. Trudy Irving secretary@stpaulsucc.net www.stpaulsucc.net

Sunday Worship 10:15 in Sanctuary Springfield Mennonite Church 1905 Pleasant View Road Coopersburg PA 18036 267-999-1404

Pastor: Rev. Joseph Wames pastorjoe@springfieldmennonite.org www.springfieldmennonite.org

Join us at 10:15a Sunday Mornings for a Blended Worship Service, Multi-generational, loving congregation. Biblically and Doctrinally Sound.

Trinity Lutheran Church 102 N. Hellertown Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536.4345 www.trinityquakertown.org

Pastor: Dayle Malloy

9 a.m. Traditional service, 11 a.m. Contemporary Service, 10: 15 a.m. Sunday School, Handicap accessible, Family Friendly, Dynamic Music Ministry, Living God’s Love for All

of winter is reversed by the buds that we see on the trees, or by the flowers blooming from the soil, once hard and frozen. Ducks and other birds are beginning to lay their eggs and raise their young. This is a season of New Life. How will it be a season of New Life for us who believe that Jesus' teachings did not remain in a tomb, but were proven true by his Resurrection?

How will it be a season of New Life in our households as we commit to not just celebrating the Resurrection on a singular day, but embodying it through how we seek to spend time with God?

How will it be a season of New Life in our church?

How will it be a season of New Life in our town and community?

How will our lives change as we seek to worship a God that is not dead, but is surely alive?

Holy God, may we seek to live our lives in accordance to the New Life that you have brought to the World. Amen. jon bauMan iS the SenioR paStoR at fiRSt uniteD chuRch of chRiSt in QuakeRtown he can be ReacheD at jbauMan@fiRStucc net

On March 1st, members of the Quakertown Community School District staff played a rollicking game of basketball against the Harlem Wizards to raise funds for Quakertown Elementary’s Parent-Teacher organization, PIE, which stands for Partners Involved in Education.

Team QCSD is pictured above. top row: Ryan Wieand, Jeff Palen, Brenden Keller, Laura Olchewsky, Tim Wolfe, Kelly Hays, Alicia Bolks, Dan Cymerman, Michael Zackon, Greg Lesher bottom row: Karen Hearn, Eileen Bruchak, Debbie Schmolk, Kirsten McNamara, Melissa Riedi, MacKenzie Baver, Christa Held, Jenny Tyrpak and Suzanne Altner. Ozzy is down in front. above and bottom left photos by michele buono, bottom right photo submitted

Indian Valley Chamber Presents Annual Awards

The Indian Valley Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the 2024 annual award recipients who were honored at our recent Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon. The annual luncheon is when we gather to celebrate our businesses and community organizations and to honor those making significant contributions to the region.

Kenneth Byler was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Byler was recognized for his long career in education and leadership coaching. In 2002, he co-founded Higher Ground Consulting Group, LLC. The firm is known for its quality leadership development and coaching programs. Ken has worked with hundreds of leaders in dozens of regional and national companies. He has facilitated classroom and virtual learning events, coached and mentored in one-onone sessions, and has been a workshop speaker at a variety of industry events.

In 2016 Ken was named program director for LEAD Indian Valley, this chamber’s well-known leadership development program. During his tenure, LEAD IV has graduated 143 persons (including this year’s cohort of 29).

Excel Communications World wide received the 2024 Pillar Award for large business of the year for their continued contributions to building a thriving local economy. Excel leverages over two decades of experience to provide expertly integrated, diverse, state-ofthe-art telecommunications solutions for

a growing list of clients across diverse business lines and industries – from design to installation, to implementation, to responsive service.

Franconia Café & Market received the 2024 Cornerstone Award for small business of the year for their dedication to the local community and connection. Franconia Café & Market is a gathering place for the community. Through 23 years of restaurant business, they have employed over 600 people from the community. They have taught young teens the importance of hard work and communication and have savored the senior staff that have worked alongside of them helping them to grow.

Emmanuel Lutheran Church received the 2024 Charles H. Allebach, Jr. Community Service Award for their ongoing E-Meal Ministry that started with the COVID lockdown and has become an important safety-net program in the Indian Valley. This program has “handed up” over 536,000 meals, raised over $200,000 in funds, and now serves over 250 families each week.

Chamber President Steven Hunsberger introduced John Duerkson, Executive Vice President at Univest, as the Chamber’s new Chair. Leslie Wheeling, the Organizational Development Manager at Clemens Food Group, was honored as the retiring Chamber Chair. Ms. Wheeling will be facilitating the Chamber’s LEAD Indian Valley program beginning later this year.

Employment Opportunities

Would you look at the new ride that I got for my Birthday? No longer will I have to squish myself in next to Maisie. My birthday was April 1st. Yes, I am an Aprils Fool Day baby. My human said the new carriage was needed because the wheels were falling off the old one but I know she really got it for me. It’s a wagon stroller. That’s like putting

your kids in a station wagon car instead of a VW bug. It’s all decorated for our Easter visit to the nursing home. I don’t know if you can tell in this picture but Miss Michelle at Groomingtails gave me a shave and grooming job yesterday so I won’t shed as much. Hope to see you all out at our local events soon.

~ Love Peanut

Jr. Community Service Award; Pam and Andy Brunner, Franconia Café & Market, Cornerstone Award; Derek Loux, Excel Worldwide Communications, Pillar Award; Ken Byler, Lifetime Achievement Award; Steve Hunsberger, Chamber President photo by michele buono

American Legion Post 242 April Update

BY DICK HELM

If you haven’t stopped by for our Friday Night Special dinners that are open to the public in a smoke free environment, you are really missing something. Before Valentine’s Day, we had the best Filet Mignon dinner or a Shrimp Scampi dinner that was comparable to many fine-dining eateries, at a diner price. I went to the Cheese Steak night when my wife was away with some friends that weekend. I brought half the sandwich home for the next day along with some of the delicious fries. Cost was $10.00 for this combo offering the cheese steak choice of 2 toppings out of 4, and a generous portion of fries. The Sons of the Legion offers this special. Stop in sometime, you will be a regular Friday night eating patron in no time!

Shortly we will be sending out our raffle tickets offering 49 chances to win some cash. We have two such raffles a year. One to support our Youth Programs and the other to help our fellow veterans. This raffle will be for funds to help Veterans. Keep an eye out for these tickets in the next few weeks and send in your lucky tickets early.

Better yet,

Join us the night of the drawing and help draw tickets while enjoying a delicious free feed! Our post is family friendly and smoke free, so please come to share a meal or special event.

What is a Master Watershed Steward?

The Master Watershed Steward (MWSS) program provides extensive training in watershed management to volunteers who, in return, educate the community about watershed stewardship based on university research and recommendations.

The Penn State Master Watershed Steward program was established to strengthen local capacity for management and protection of watersheds, streams, and rivers, by educating and empowering volunteers across the commonwealth.

knotweed and replant the area with native trees and shrubs. Over the past three years, the neighborhood, with the help of the Master Watershed Stewards, has continued to remove invasive vegetation and plant new trees and live stakes. Restoring the streambank with deep-rooted native trees and shrubs helps prevent erosion and supports the local ecosystem.

Our adjutant filled me in with some important details. We are 96% on renewals for 2023/2024. If you are a member for a long time it is a shame to miss that consecutive membership record – so please send in your renewal ASAP. We only have 2 months left for this period’s membership. Charley said that a team went out on a very rainy Saturday to Camp Quabosco (the camp we are in charge of by inheritance), to review needs to make this beautiful area along the Tohickon Creek a functioning facility for the youth of our area. Their findings will be reviewed at our meetings and hopefully plans can be made for a money appeal or fundraiser to raise these funds so we have a safe and outdoor activities functional place for camping of youth groups.

In late March we hosted a Veteran’s benefit function. This service is one of many we offer to you, our members. As always we encourage the public to attend any informational meetings involving Veteran’s Benefits.

Time is moving on and in no time it will be late May. One of our main public events is our Memorial Day Parade and Service. It takes a team to make this event a success. If you, as a member, can help in anyway please call our Post and leave a number you can be reached so committee chairman, Tony Michael can get in touch with you. We can certainly use your help!

Our honor guard team is still very busy. One of the services we participated in was a local stream bridge dedicated to a local pilot MIA (possibly killed) during the Vietnam War. Read about him in my Remembrance Column in this issue. We will NEVER FORGET or give up hope!

God Bless America and the Troops who protect us, ~Dick Helm

Bucks County Master Watershed Steward Jim Walter Inspires Environmental Action

Jim Walter, a retired chemical engineer, was part of the first Bucks County Master Watershed Steward training class in 2015. He since has taken on a leadership role in the program.

From facilitating the planting of thousands of trees to developing an innovative procedure to help pinpoint and address streambank erosion issues, Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward volunteer Jim Walter has inspired environmental action in Bucks County and beyond.

serving on the county's advisory council. This council consists of dedicated program volunteers who organize annual meetings, create program budgets, and monitor project requests and fundraising needs. Walter also participates in the Buckingham Township Environmental Advisory Council and is a founding board member of the Neshaminy Watershed Association.

I

"In Bucks County, we face significant surface water problems, including erosion and flooding during hurricanes," said Walter. "Part of our work focuses on slowing the flow of surface water and preventing streambank erosion to protect homes from being washed away. The Master Watershed Steward program has helped me work with townships, conservation districts, and other organizations to address these issues."

Walter implemented a simple and effective citizen science tool to measure streambank erosion, originally used by academics, that volunteers in several counties now use. The procedure involves inserting rebar into the streambank, leaving an inch exposed, and measuring it monthly to record the change in erosion. Walter trained many volunteers to conduct these measurements, creating a database of erosion issues to share with local conservation districts, townships, and watershed associations. Walter’s method has gained popularity, as people from other states have shown interest in learning how it works.

A project Walter found particularly meaningful was a streambank restoration on Watson Creek in Bucks County. Once a historic trout stream, the creek had become infested with Japanese knotweed. This invasive plant is difficult to eradicate, as it spreads rapidly along waterways, blocking native plants and providing little habitat for wildlife, Walter explained.

The Master Watershed Steward volunteers collaborated with community members and neighbors to remove the Japanese

"Jim's enthusiasm for the program, his concern for the environment, and his patient ways are driving forces encouraging fellow volunteers to participate in projects that are making a big difference in the community," said Kathleen Connally, Master Watershed Steward coordinator for Penn State Extension in Bucks County.

Walter was instrumental in promoting the use of live staking for streambank restoration, Connally noted. This process involves taking cuttings from dormant native shrubs and trees and installing them into the banks of eroding streams, ponds, or lakes. The stakes quickly form a dense root mat to help secure the bank and prevent erosion. Since 2021, Walter has helped coordinate the installation of more than 6,000 live stakes in Bucks County through on-site training programs where volunteers learn the process by taking part in it.

"Jim is an excellent trainer and presenter, capable of simplifying complex topics and communicating effectively," Connally said. "His approach is friendly and approachable, and people feel comfortable asking him questions."

In 2022, Walter urged the Bucks County Master Watershed Stewards to set a goal of planting 2,022 trees to increase carbon sequestration, shade, oxygen levels, habitat, and property values. He helped develop opportunities to obtain and plant trees. The program more than doubled its goal by planting more than 4,500 trees in Bucks County.

"This is the one thing you can do to change the environment locally," Walter observed about the program. "When you think about the big problems of the world, such as climate change and pollution, they're almost intractable as an individual. But fixing streams and planting trees is something everybody can do to make an impact on the environment. Those trees will be there for the rest of your life."

Connally pointed out that the program's volunteer opportunities cater to a wide range of skills and abilities, encompassing hands-on tasks such as streamside plantings, stream monitoring, and cleanups, educational events such as rain barrel workshops, and supporting roles such as fundraising through native tree and plant sales.

"Anyone interested in the environment and the water we drink, and who is willing to learn more and make a difference in their community, will find a great deal of personal satisfaction by joining the program," Connally said. If you are interested in joining the program email or call the number below.

references: Live staking for stream restoration (Psu edu) master Watershed steWard Program (Psu edu) Our Home Garden/Watershed hotline is active! Emails are still being answered by our trained Master Gardeners and Master Watershed Stewards. You can call or email. Hotline Hours are M-F 9-12, 1-3:30

Phone: 267-483-2020

Ask a Master Gardener/Watershed Steward

Penn State Extension Bucks County

Email: BucksMG@psu.edu

Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!

A Tale of Two Ships

I told you about the American submarine Squalus (UBFP, Dec. 2022 issue). She sank off New Hampshire on May 23, 1939. Quakertown son, Alexander Biggs Keagan, died on her. A sister-sub, Sculpin, located the Squalus, communicated with her, and stood by. The world anxiously ‘watched’ as deep water rescue techniques made leaps forward and 26 of 59 onboard were saved. Sculpin-(SS-191), and Squalus-(SS-192), were state-ofthe-art Sargo-class subs, their keels laid at Portsmouth, NH in 1937, September and October respectfully. In the following months, Squalus was refloated, refurbished, and renamed Sailfish. Both she and Sculpin saw action in WWII. A few years later the two ships’ fates intertwined again and resulted in another historic, if ironic and tragic event.

Squalus was refloated with much effort on September 13th, then was towed into Portsmouth and decommissioned. Sculpin, and other ships, escorted her. Overhauled and recommissioned Sailfish on May 15, 1940, the salvaged sub was sent the Pacific, arriving Pearl Harbor early March, 1941. To steady crew moral, Captain Morton Mumma issued standing-orders: anyone who said the word “Squalus” would be marooned at the next port-of-call. Court marshals were threatened when sailors started calling her “Squal-fish”. Sailfish was soon reassigned to the Asiatic Fleet and operated from Manila, the Philippines.

When war began, Sailfish/Squalus saw no action on the five patrols she executed by August 1942. After an Allied defeat in the Java Sea she encountered a destroyer, made an unsuccessful attack, and survived a severe depth charge barrage. That night, while lurking in Lombok Strait, Sailfish fired four torpedoes at what they believed was the Japanese aircraft carrier, Kaga, scoring two hits and leaving the ship afire and adrift. [It was latter recognized as the aircraft ferry, Kamogawa]. Sailfish survived 40 depth charges over the next 90 minutes but escaped with her first victory.

After an overhaul in California in early 1943, Sailfish returned to Pacific duty, patrolling off Honshu, Okinawa and in the Formosa Straits. On December 4th, she encountered an enemy convoy that included the aircraft carrier Chuyo. In three separate attack runs, Sailfish put six torpedoes into the prize target and sunk her. It was an historic ‘kill’. Sailfish was the only U.S. submarine to sink a Japanese carrier during WWII. The famously resurrected ship had risen from sunken depths to top of the fleet.

Meanwhile, sister-ship Sculpin, did East Coast and Caribbean patrols after the Squalus recovery. Next assigned to the Pacific she operated from Pearl Harbor for 18 months. Transferred to the Philippines in October 1941, Sculpin was on local patrol when war broke out. Strong weather prevented action against Japanese landings on Luzon and the submarine fleet fled to Java.

Sculpin patrolled Indonesia earning credit for two cargo ship ‘kills’ then, as the war went poorly, she re-based in Australia. Directed by Navaho Code Breakers, she participated in several chases but scored no hits. Mark-14 torpedoes and Mark-VI detonators were frustratingly unreliable. Depths and runs were inconsistent and hits often failed to explode. Sculpin’s experiences epitomized the problems. She suffered several damaging depth charge attacks while escaping empty-handed.

Sculpin did receive credit for sinking a transport and a tanker while patrolling the South China Sea, Bismark Archipelago, and off Truk Island. In January, 1943 she returned to San Francisco for overhaul.

In the autumn 1943, Sculpin, now commanded by Fred Connaway, was ordered to join Searaven and Apogon as a ‘wolf pack’ to support the upcoming Tarawa invasion. Aboard Sculpin was ‘pack’ commander, Capt. John Cromwell. He carried with him Tarawa invasion plans and an Ultra, the Japanese code breaking machine. When the ‘pack’ was ordered into action on November 29, Sculpin did not respond, nor did she respond 48 hours later. On December 30, she was presumed lost then stricken from the Register on March 25, 1944.

After V-J Day, liberated survivors told of Sculpin’s last mission. On November 19, 1943, she was discovered while tracking a Japanese convoy. Depth charges knocked out her depth gauge so, when she came to periscope depth she accidently breached and was spotted again. Another attack damaged her sonar, sent her beyond safe-depth where she sprang multiple leaks. To give the crew a chance of survival, Captain Connaway surfaced and died in a shootout with the destroyer. Surviving senior officer, Lt. George Brown, ordered Sculpin abandoned and scuttled. Fearful he would reveal secrets under ‘questioning’, Captain Cromwell and his intelligence went down with the ship. He received the Medal of Honor for his sacrifice.

Forty-two Sculpin survivors were picked up by the Japanese, though a badly wounded Wm. Henry Welsh was tossed back overboard because of his condition. The men were ‘questioned’ for ten days on Truk Island then shipped to Japan in two aircraft carriers. Twenty-one of them were transported in the hold of the carrier, Chuyo.

While enroute to Yokohama, on December 4, 1943, the Chuyo took six torpedoes from an American submarine and sank. 1,250 Japanese sailors and 20 American prisoners died. George Rocek was the only Sculpin crewman to survive. He grabbed a ladder dangling from the side of a passing Japanese destroyer and climbed aboard. He was reunited with the other Sculpin’s survivors, ‘questioned’ again, then worked in the Ashio copper mines for the war’s duration.

The submarine that sunk Chuyo was Sailfish, formerly Squalus, the same ship Sculpin helped rescue four-and-a-half years earlier. Though none of the crews were the same, the ships were sisters. A great victory came with a tragic and ironic price. In achieving America’s greatest submarine victory of WWII, the two ships’, relationship ended.

Sailfish fought on, earning four kills, and 13,200 tons. She rescued downed pilots under fire, scored many more damaging hits and survived many more depth charge attacks. Decommissioned in 1945, then targeted for A-bomb tests she was rescued. Ultimately, Sailfish/Squalus was stricken from the Registry on April 30, 1948, and sold for scrap in Philadelphia. Her conning tower was salvaged and stands at Portsmouth in recognition of the ship’s unique history and as memorial to those who died on her, including Alex Keegan of Quakertown, PA.s.

jack Schick iS a long tiMe QuakeRtown

Take your Dog Shopping?

In many parts of the world, dogs are welcomed everywhere. All the stores are dog friendly including restaurants.

That's not the case for the United States. But surprisingly, a number of our local businesses allow well-behaved dogs into their stores. Most of us know we can bring our dogs into large chain pet supply stores. Lots of wineries, breweries & restaurants with outside seating allow dogs. But have you ever thought of going shopping for clothes or picking out paint with your faithful friend?

Here are some do's and don'ts tips so you can enjoy your shopping experience with your canine friend.

1. Use safe appropriate equipment, a short strong leash (4 to 6 ft.) with a wellfitted collar or harness. This means no retractable leaches!

2. Keep your dog next to you on a short leash as you are rewarding your dog with high value treats when you enter the building. Sliding automatic doors can be a little unnerving to your dog. Stand back and watch the doors open and close a few times before entering.

3. Carry poop bags and cleaning wipes, accidents happen.

4. Only one dog per handler. You may be able to walk three dogs easily with no distractions. Unpredictable situations can happen very quickly. Now, try keeping

three dogs in control when something unplanned pops up!

5. Look to see if this location is a good match for your dog's personality and training. I typically have taken my dog to Lowe’s with no problems. Well, an enormous brightly lit and loud Halloween display was just too overwhelming for my pup. She had her tail tucked down below her legs, ears pinned back, and she was ready to get out of Dodge! We quickly moved away from the display.

6. Avoid shopping at peak hours. Crowds of people, lots of noisy carts and loud overhead speakers can be overwhelming for your pup.

7. If you're comparison shopping for something in particular, you may need to consult a salesperson for help. You can’t be watching what your dog is doing if you're consulting with a salesperson. Don’t bring your dog unless he or she can wait and lie quietly while you chat.

Here are some friendly dog shopping stores: Lowe's, Tractor Supply Company, Harbor Freight, Ace Hardware, Home Depot, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, Dick's Sporting Goods, T.J. Maxx, Nordstrom, Macy’s, The Gap, Victoria's Secret.

SubMitteD by MaRion c o’neil cpDt-ka, ctDi, owneR anD inStRuctoR foR MolaSSeS cReek Dog tRaining, llc, QuakeRtown anD tRaineR foR Runaway faRM pet hoSpital, pennSbuRg She can be ReacheD at MolaSSeScReek@veRizon net

Make Plans for April 8 Solar Eclipse

With Pennsylvania one of only 13 states in the “path of totality” for the April 8 total solar eclipse, residents and people planning to travel to the state are being encouraged to plan ahead for viewing this rare astronomical event. The path of the eclipse will impact Pennsylvania starting at approximately 2 p.m. as the moon travels in front of the sun. At approximately 3:16 p.m. to 3:20 p.m., totality will occur in the northwest region, including Crawford and Erie counties, as well as portions of Mercer and Warren counties. At the same time, the remainder of the state will see the moon covering 90% to 99% of the sun. The eclipse will conclude at approximately 4:30 p.m.

UBCTS Hosts Bunny Breakfast to Benefit Future Farmers of America

Shopping

This morning, I went to the supermarket to pick up a few things. Also had to use the bathroom. As an old guy, it takes me a while, so luckily, no one lined up behind me at the urinal.

I don’t need the stress, and I sometimes suffer from anxiety.

As I walked around, (after washing my hands and using the tornado force hand dryer) I noticed how unhappy everyone looked. The first person I saw was one of the cashiers, ringing up someone, and looking absolutely miserable. No chatting with the customer, just head down scanning.

There are over twenty neck muscles that support one’s head. Perhaps in a freak accident, all of this woman’s muscles were severed, and that’s the best she can do. Probably unlikely, and then I saw a few other employees, all with that same sad look on their faces. Oy.

Normally, when I see unhappy workers, I assume that management is poor, perhaps doesn’t thank them for a job well done, or some of the other items that cause people to not like what they do. I feel sorry for them. Most of us work a very long time, and it’s a shame if one Is unhappy throughout those many years.

But then I looked at the customers. WTH? They all look miserable too!

As a house husband, I do almost all of the food shopping, and it’s really not a bad chore. Certainly, better than picking up dog poop from the yard, and

not bad enough to make me look like I have starch in my shorts! What’s up with that? It’s just food shopping for chrissakes.

In his song, Everywhere I Go, Jackson Browne sings about shopping… “Rocking in the aisle to my inside song

People staring at me think I got a Walkman on”

C’mon people! Rock to your inside song!

But then I went outside, and as a friendly person I like to say hello, or good morning to the people that I pass. Sometimes they say hello back, oth er times a grunt, and many times I’m ignored.

It doesn’t stop me. I enjoy people, I’ll keep on doing it!

Today the politicians seem to be trying to outlaw everything, but hopefully being friendly to someone you meet on the street will not be one of them. Yet every time I see one of these political types on TV, they seem angry and red faced, yelling about most everything and everyone. How can you hate everything?

I just don’t get it. Calm down Senator… You’re paid way too much, and work way less than most Americans…you should have trouble NOT smiling!

Maybe they’re the ones with starch in their shorts…

john SchaningeR iS a lifelong of pennSylvania anD haS liveD black eDDy foR oveR 14 yeaRS. R M12StRing@aol coM

A Fun Filled Day at Annual Upper Bucks Celtic Fest

The Upper Bucks County Technical School recently hosted their annual Bunny Breakfast fundraiser to benefit the Future Farmers of America. Dozens of families attended the event featuring a visit from the Easter Bunny, egg hunts in a balloon pit, crafts and activities, and a delicious breakfast buffet served up by the students. photo by michele buono

b uckygrams : forsythia, daffodils, tulips, crocus, green grass, budding bushes, flowering trees, warm breezes, sunny days, chirping robins, birds nesting, April showers h idden m essage Time to open your windows. b ucky b lock : Travel overseas.

2024 Toyota Crown AWD

Toyota has another winner in its stable of fine cars. The debut of their Crown semi full-size sedan may be the best alternative to buyers who prefer an AWD sedan to an SUV and an EV.

The Crown replaced the long-running Avalon full-size sedan. And Toyota included added incentives such as AWD for Snowbelt driving and a hybrid powertrain for miserly fuel economy no SUV can match. Added to this, Crown has an eye-grabbing exterior design with a pleasing, classy leather interior.

Crown is offered in XLE, Limited and Platinum that we were privileged to test.

Crown has a pleasing and comfy interior. With a raised stance (5.8 inches of ground

clearance) and doors that open wide, ingress/egress is easy and similar to most crossovers or SUVs.

A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen is streamlined across half the dash and includes the digital gauge cluster. It serves a host of functions such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto connectivity, rearview camera with surround and revolving views, navigation, JBL audio, HVAC selections to supplement the traditional array of switches, and some voice control that includes asking questions similar to an Alexa home assist system.

Heated front seats (and steering wheel) are nicely supportive and comfy. The console houses a slim 6-speed automatic gear selector that is supplement with paddle shifters. They’re joined with a wireless phone charger and mode switch for Custom, Sport, Sport Plus, Normal, Comfort and Eco modes. The cupholders even have removeable partitions and Crown’s center console box/armrest lid opens from both sides for driver/passenger access.

Crowns’ gauge cluster includes a power gauge in place of a traditional tachometer and it shows when the hybrid system is operating most efficiently and when heavy throttle is less efficient. Toyota designers thought of everything and included all the latest technology including Safety Sense 3.0 that

offers radar cruise control, lane departure alert w/steering assist, lane tracing assist, proactive driving assist, advanced park (Crown parks itself), blind spot monitor and more.

Heated rear seats are equally as comfy as the fronts with decent leg room (38.9 inches) and ample head room for two adults. A third passenger would have to be a youngster with short legs as the transaxle hump is somewhat high.

Crowns’ trunk is spacious and is rated at 15.2 cubic feet that has 45.5 inches of loading depth. Flip the 60/40 rear seatbacks and loading depth extends to 77 inches. Beneath the trunk floor is a space saver spare tire along with a tray for small item storage. With the Platinum trim model, it comes with a 2.4L turbocharged Hydra Max 4-cylinder that produces a combined 340 net horsepower and 400.4 lb/ft of combined net torque. So powered, Crown gets most impressive EPA mileage estimates of 29 city, 32-highway mpg.

The XLE and Limited produce 236 net horsepower with a CVT automatic transmission. When coupled to the conventional 6-speed automatic, the Crown Platinum can do 0-60 in a quick 5.7 seconds. There’s certainly no want for power as equipped. And in Sport and Sport Plus modes, acceleration is even quicker and instantaneous with no discernible turbo lag.

Shod with tall 21-inch Bridgestone tires and adaptive suspension, Crown rode quietly and smoothly with excellent road manners. In tight turns or curves, it remained planted with virtually no discernible body lean.

As the top-line model, Crown Platinum had a base price of $52,350 with only two options of premium paint ($425) and two-tone paint ($550). Those took the bottom line to $54,420 with delivery. The XLE carries an MSRP of $40,050 while the Limited’s is $45,650.

Crown comes with a 3 year/36K general warranty and a 5/60K powertrain. Hybrid batteries are covered for 10 years or 150K miles and includes complimentary scheduled maintenance and roadside assistance for two years or 25K miles.

Added to this, the Institute for Highway Safety awarded Crown a top safety pick.

Toyota’s Crown is a crown jewel as it has something for everybody who doesn’t want an EV or an SUV. It’s a compelling compromise, along with Toyota’s quality build.

nick hRoMiak iS an autoMotive enthuSiaSt anD fReelance wRiteR we look foRwaRD to bRinging you hiS new coluMn each Month he can be ReacheD at nhRoMiak@veRizon net