2 • Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2023
Now to December 14 Upper Bucks Sertoma Charity Raffle! Three Prizes will be drawn on Dec 14. (1) Scenic plane ride, (2) Dinner at Sette Luna & State Theater tickets, (3) Park’n Fly to airport plus 1 night at hotel. Tickets are $5 ea or 5 tickets for $20. Visit upperbuckssertoma.org for details and tickets.
Now to December 20 Bucks County YMCA Free In-Person & Virtual Wellness Opportunities. Learn more about trying the Y for free at: ymcabhc.org/ membership/here-for-community Exhibit: Joan Isaac-Etchings on display at Richland Library, 44 S Main St, Quakertown. Varied subjects! (Wed 1pm-4pm) (Sat 9am12noon) Handicap accessible. Now to January 7-Festival of Trees at Pearl S. Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. Tour times/prices: pearlsbuck.org or 215-249-0100
December 1 Trumbauersville Fire Co Hoagie Sale (order by Dec 1, pickup Dec 11) Fire Company, 142 N Main St. Call Karen Gallie 215-536-0988 “Eddie the Eagle” Free movie matinee every Friday at 2pm at Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St. 215-536-3306 “Arsenic and Old Lace” Free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome. 215-257-9718 Christmas Tree Lighting Festival 5:30pm8pm in Downtown Quakertown. Santa & Mrs Claus arrive 7pm by Fire Truck. Carolers, Gift & Food Vendors, Kid’s Train Rides, QCHS Varsity Singers, Alpacas, Live Nativity, Carriage Rides. 215-536-2273 House Decorating Contest (Sellersville residents ONLY) Register by Dec 4 at Sellersville@sellersvilleboro.org Include name, address & phone number. Sign MUST be displayed in front of your property as an entry. Money prizes! Dublin Holiday Gathering 5:30pm-8:30pm at 123 N Main St, Suite 215, Dublin. Santa lights the tree at 5:45pm, Horse & Carriage Rides, Gingerbread House competition, Live Nativity.
December 1 & 2 Holiday Craft Show (Woman’s Club of Quakertown) with apple dumplings, bake sale, food court, raffle & more. (Fri 4pm-8pm) (Sat 9am-4pm) at Quakertown Fire House, 505 W. Broad St.
December 1 to 3 Holiday Shoppe (Fri/Sat 9am-4pm) (Sun 12noon-4pm) at Good Shepherd Church, 1634 Hilltown Pike, Hilltown. Snack Bar, Gifts, Raffle Baskets, Baked goods, Huge kid area. Goodshepherdhilltown.org PA German Christmas (Fri 10am-3pm) (Sat 9:30am-9pm) (Sun noon-4pm) at Schwenkfelder Heritage Center, 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. Five Montgomery Co sites with Markets, displays, historic house tours. PaGermanChristmas.org Holiday Craft Show, 10am-4pm at Pearl S. Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. Gifts, food, jewelry, apparel, more. Admission: $5. A tradition for three decades. 215-249-0100 or pearlsbuck.org
December 2 Santa Photos every (Sat 11am-7pm) (Sun 11am-5pm) thru Dec. 23. $5 each or 3 for $13 in Event Room 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd Holiday Slot Car Extravaganza 9am-2pm in Event Room 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd Winter Breakfast 9am-11am at Upper Bucks County Technical School, 3115 Ridge Rd, Perkasie. $10/adults, $6/kids 3-9yrs, free/ kids 0-2yrs. Santa, Holiday Crafts, Letters to Santa. Bring your camera. 215-795-2911 Christmas in Quakertown 7:30pm at First UCC, 151 S 4th St. Quakertown Band, Festival Choir, Sanctuary Handbells,
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks? December 13 Quakertown HS Varsity Singers. Live performance and streamed on Facebook. Freewill Offering accepted. Firstucc.net ‘The North Pennsmen Barbershop Chorus’ Holiday Concert 2pm at Souderton Mennonite, 105 W Chestnut St. Book tickets at: northpennsmen.org/holiday-show-2023 5K Reindeer Run & Walk, 8am start. Generations of Indian Valley in Souderton. Tickets for Basket Raffles worth $100-$200 each will be sold at front desk thru Dec 1. Winners chosen at the Reindeer Run/Walk. FMI: generationsofiv.org Christmas Café 4:30pm-6:30pm at Trinity Lutheran, 19 S Fifth St, Perkasie. Free food, Nativity, Crafts, Photo booth, Holiday music. Come visit before the Tree Lighting at Town Center. 215-257-6801 115th Perkasie Tree Lighting 5pm-8pm, (carousel 12noon-5pm) at Town Center and Menlo Park, Perkasie. Santa arrives 7pm to light the tree. Free tractor rides, Fire Dance Show, Costumed characters, more. Events@perkasieborough.org “Christmas in Perkasie” and operating model train display at Perkasie Historical Society Museum, 513 W Walnut St, Perkasie. Open 12noon-4pm. Perkasiehistory.org Sellersville Belles Softball Bingo. $35. Open 5:15pm, start 6pm Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry St, Quakertown. moyer1110@gmail.com Nativity Open House 10am-2pm at Grace UMC, 295 S Main St, Telford. View 100+ nativity scenes for free. Refreshments available. telfordgrace.org Minsi Trail Flower Club – Kiffels & Krafts 9am-3pm at Passer Community Center, 2580 Richlandtown Pike, Coopersburg. Crafts, baked goods and our famous Kiffels (while they last) Cash/checks only. Lunch available.
December 2 & 3 Santa Paws Pet Photos, $6 each (bring pets in and out of Exit#18) at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd 18th Christmas Bazaar/Craft Fair (Sat 9am-3:30pm) (Sun 9am-2pm) Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, 100 Broad St, Hilltown. Vendors, Food, 50/50, Bake table, Basket Raffle, Santa visit, Jewelry, Book Nook, Parish Raffle. Alpaca Christmas at Harley Hill Farm, 451 Kellers Rd, Quakertown. 10am-4pm. Complimentary hot cocoa, Christmas trees, Holiday music. Warm up at the Barn’s fireplace. Shop for alpaca gifts. 215-536-2841 Christmas Market (Sat 9:30am-4pm) (Sun 12noon-4pm) at Schwenkfelder Heritage Center, 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. Crafts, folk art, books, etc. Activities available, holiday music. Free admission. 215-679-3103
December 3 Holiday Basket Bingo (open 11:30am, games 1pm) Sellersville Fire Department, 2 N Main St. Filled Longaberger Baskets. Raffles, 50/50, more. $25/adv, $30/door if available. All must have a ticket. LadiesAux@sellersvillefd.com or 215-257-4028 x 305. Leave message. ‘Quakertown Christmas House Tours’Reception with refreshments 2pm at Raymour & Flanigan, 110 S West End Blvd. House Tours 3pm-6pm. Tickets: $25/advance, $30/at door. QuakertownAlive.com or 215-536-2273 Holiday Concert 3pm (open 2:30pm) Music by Craig Thatcher & Nyke Van Wyk. $10 suggested donation. Quakertown United Methodist, 1875 Freier Rd, Quakertown
December 5 “Pennridge High School Chamber Choir” performance by an auditioned ensemble of students who perform collegiate-level repertoire. Membership Dinner Meeting 6:30pm ($15 reserve: Pat 215-257-9624), St. Stephen’s UCC, 110 N 6th St, Perkasie.
December 6 Coffee Club 9am at Robert James Investments, 1313 W Broad St, Quakertown.
Park in rear of building. Use Quakertown Historical Society entrance. All welcome. Must RSVP 215-583-5013 ‘Storytime with Mrs. Claus’ 5pm-8pm at Braveheart, 430 Main St, Hellertown. Also raffles to support Hellertown Area Library.
December 7 ‘Toys for Tots’ final pickup day at EAS Water, 571 Richlandtown Pike, Richlandtown. Drop off NEW toys here. ‘Make & Give Christmas Ornament Crafts’ 5pm-7pm, Schwenkfelder Heritage Center, 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. Crafting and holiday tunes. Free. Register to ensure enough supplies. meredith@schwenkfelder.org or 215-679-3103
December 8 “Little Women” Free movie matinee every Friday at 2pm at Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St. 215-536-3306 “West Side Story” Free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome. 215-257-9718 ‘Sweet Sing Along’ w/Jackie & Friends 3pm (or just listen). Hot chocolate/cookies served. A donation (suggested $5) to cover program/refreshments. Register by Dec 6 at 215-723-5841. Generations of Indian Valley, 259 N 2nd St, Souderton
December 8 & 10 “Scrooge Comes to Life” performances (Fri 7pm) (Sun 10:30am) at Community Baptist, 7350 Elementary Rd, Coopersburg. Free admission, free-will offering. Also nursery available. 610-928-0275.
December 8 to 16 “Twas the Night Before Christmas” & “Can the Toys Save Christmas?” at DCP Theater, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. (Fri/Sat/ Sun performances only) Call DCP Theatre for ticket availability 215-234-0966.
December 9 QMPO Holiday Fest/Craft Fair 9am-2pm, Quakertown High School, 600 Park Ave. Music from students, 140+ crafter/vendors, scavenger hunt, food, raffles, much more. FMI: qmpo.org/craft-fair Sellersville Annual Winterfest 4pm-7pm. Tree lighting downtown, Laura Williams, Santa arrives, S’mores , Crafts/games throughout town, transportation on Main St. Holiday passport, special menus & sales. Check FB or sellersvilleboro.org Perkasie Indoor Farmers Market (locally made, healthy food) 9am-12noon at Perkasie Fire Company Fire Hall, 100 N 5th St. Perkasie Historical Society Christmas House Tour 3pm-8pm.Tour is self-guided (self drive or ride our Special Event trollies). Pick up tour booklet & wristband at the Society’s Museum. Reservations are online. Downtown Perkasie Gingerbread House Contest. Age 12 & under, 13-18, age 18+. Prizes $100, $50, $25. Judging during the Gingerbread Extravaganza 10am-3pm. Sign up at Perkasieptia.com
December 10 Storytime Santa & Letters to Santa 1pm in Room #201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. (also on FB) “Twas the Night Before Christmas”. Drop off letters now thru Dec 17. Include self-addressed stamped envelope with your child’s name. Old-Fashioned Christmas Concert 4pm Tachyonmetry, Joanna Mell & Dulcimer Boys(prelude 3:40pm) Coffee/cookies follow. Perkasie Mennonite/Patchwork Coffeehouse, 320 W Chestnut St. 215-257-3117. Accepting non-perishable food for FISH food pantry Community Holiday Party 3pm-5pm. Complimentary tour of Festival of Trees at Pearl S. Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. Light refreshments & visit from Santa. 215-249-0100 or pearlsbuck.org
Take a Photo with Santa Clause, the Waterboy & a Firetruck, 7pm-8:30pm at EAS Water, 571 Richlandtown Pike, Richlandtown. Stop by for Hot Chocolate & Giveaways! Bring your camera and family! Quakertown Business & Professional Women’s Club and Upper Perkiomen BPW Holiday Gathering at John’s Plain & Fancy, Rt 309, Quakertown. 5:30pm networking, 6pm dinner. Entertainment! Cost $35. FMI/reserve by Dec 10. Linda 215-536-1325 ‘Merry Christmas Lunch Party’ 11:30am, Upper Bucks Activity Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown. $16/person. DJ & dancing 12:30pm-2:30pm. Surprise guest! Must buy by Dec 7 at 215-536-3066. ($8 dancing only pay at door).
December 15 “Fargo” Free movie matinee every Friday at 2pm at Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St. 215-536-3306 Paint Night Fundraiser for Adam Schwegel, 6:30pm-10pm at PA Dutch Gardens, 524 Dublin Pike, Dublin. $45/adults, $20/kids. For full story visit theartoasis.net/adamstrong “A Raisin in the Sun” Free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome. 215-257-9718
December 16 Grinchmas Celebration 11am-2pm in Downtown Perkasie. Pet & Family photos with Grinch, Whoville Carolers, Shopping, Community Dog Walk, Storytime, Kids Crafts, Grinchy Food & Drinks. Drive-thru Cookie Sale 9am-12noon or sold out. $12/lb (variety of flavors) for Community Outreach. Cash only. St. Stephen’s UCC, 110 N 6th St, Perkasie. 215-257-6460
December 16 & 17 4th Annual Holiday Market (Sat 10am4pm) (Sun 11am-4pm) at The Farm Bakery & Events, 2475 W Zion Hill Rd, Quakertown. 20+ Vendors with variety of goods & gifts. 215-645-9343 Holiday Indoor Craft Show 9am-4pm. Local crafters with homemade items at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd
December 17 ‘Drink Cocoa & Do Good’ Fundraiser for Quakertown Code Blue Homeless Shelter. 2pm-4:30pm at Caleb's Cocoa Cafe in front yard (yellow tent) at 207 N Ambler St, Quakertown. Hot Cocoa (free toppings) & Baked Goods. Everything is $1.00. Friendly Grinch Photos with Santa. $6 each. 12noon-2pm in Event Room 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Holiday Centerpiece-making Class w/Mark Bryan Designs at Pearl S. Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. $75 covers cost of all supplies. Register: pearlsbuck.org/centerpiece. 215-249-0100 or pearlsbuck.org
December 20 Festive Holiday Feast 12noon ($20 holiday surf & turf meal) includes entertainment (Sinatra, Christmas tunes, dance floor open after the meal). Registration required by Dec 14 at 215-723-5841. Generations, 259 N 2nd St, Souderton.
December 21 Winter Begins Spirit Journeys: The Longest Night, 7pm at Generations of Indian Valley, 259 N 2nd St, Souderton. Brief community ceremony followed by light refreshments. Time for quiet, self-reflection. FREE, register 215-723-5841
December 22 “Christmas Vacation” Free movie matinee every Friday at 2pm at Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St. 215-536-3306 “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” Free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanutfree crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome. 215-257-9718
December 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 3
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks? December 23
December 29
Iconic Zone Toy Show (collectibles, action figures, comics, funko pops and more) Event Room 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd
Entertainer Peter Moses 11am at Quakertown Library on Mill St. Get ready for music & song. Good for kids & grownups. 215-536-3306 “The Thing” Free movie matinee every Friday at 2pm at Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St. 215-536-3306 “Dr. Strangelove” Free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome. 215-257-9718
December 25 Christmas Day Free Community Christmas Dinner, 12noon at St. Michael’s Lutheran, 23 E Church Rd, Sellersville. Take-outs & deliveries possible. RSVP 215-651-3949
December 27 Meet live snakes and other reptiles 2pm in an interactive event great for all ages. Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. 215-257-9718
December 28 Abby London 11am at Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St. Join us for a performance for kids & grownups. Dinosaurs? Puppets? Magic? 215-536-3306
December 30 Countdown to Noon, 11am at Quakertown Library on Mill St. Crafts, Dance Party and a fun-filled countdown to 12noon. All ages. 215-536-3306
December 31 New Year’s Eve
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.
Have something to share with your community? info@ubfp.org • 215-529-8915 www.ubfp.org • fb.com/ubfreepress 582 S. West End Blvd • Quakertown, PA 18951
4 • Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2023
Quakertown BPW Supports Keystone Human Services
Safe Howlidays! Be cautious when putting up your Christmas tree this season. The reason? “Happy Dog Tail Syndrome.” This syndrome will wipe out all decorations on the lower branches of your tree. Try keeping the good ornaments higher while saving the sturdier ones for the bottom. Last year my dogs knocked the tree down three times within two days. The first time I strategically redecorated the ornaments, lights and garland on the tree. By the third time, it was a convoluted mess. I just threw everything on the tree and called it done. Needless to say, my guests never commented on my tree last year. My teenrover Kelce (big Eagles fan) has a diabolical windmill of a tail, otherwise known as the “Preeminent Happy Dog Tail Syndrome.” I have taken extreme precautions this year! Ten howliday safety tips for your dog: 1. Christmas trees attract dogs. Pine needles (even artificial) are indigestible. Try keeping your dog away from the tree by using a baby gate in the doorway. You can use an exercise pen around the tree. Secure it so it can’t be knocked over. 2. Be careful using water preservatives in live trees. It can be toxic to your dog. Cover the stand with a tree skirt 3. Do not use edible ornaments or fragile, easily breakable glass decorations to trim
the tree. Your dog may knock over the tree trying to get to them, and your dog may decide they’re toys and cut herself trying to play with them. 4. Don’t use angel hair. It’s made of spun glass and can cause irritation on contact 5. Make sure electrical cords are out of reach. Chewing on wires may cause burns or pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs), which can be fatal. 6. Don’t use wire ornament hooks that can easily snag an ear or a tail, or, if swallowed, can lodge in the throat or intestines. Instead, fashion loops of yarn, ribbons or light weight twine. 7. Gift wrappings can cause obstruction of the small bowel. 8. A careless swish of a tail can be disastrous for unattended burning candles. 9. Alcohol and chocolate are toxic to dogs. Dark and unsweetened baking chocolate are the most dangerous! 10. Turkey bones are irresistible but can lodge in your dog’s throat or block the intestinal tract. Carefully place the string and foil in a secured trash receptacle. Have a safe holiday season! 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.
The Quakertown Business and Professional Women’s Organization is supporting the 202324 BPW/PA Project called Keystone Human Services. The members heard from David Kunicki, Director of Intellectual Disability Services. He shared that they provide services on five different levels. Keystone Human Services is a nonprofit organization that provides community-based services and support for individuals throughout Pennsylvania with intellectual disabilities, autism, and other related conditions. They offer programs that encourage house stability, job opportunities, technical assistant and service dogs. The Co-Presidents, Linda Moskal and Jeanne Schlicher, presented him with a check for $1500 as a donation from the local organization. It was also noted that the Quakertown BPW received the distinguished Eleanor Knoke Award as the most outstanding club in District Eleven at their Fall District Meeting. District Eleven is comprised of Central Montgomery County, Greater Conshohocken, Quakertown,
Souderton Telford and Upper Perkiomen. It is based on leadership on the local, district and state levels, participation in BPW events, and helping community outreach groups with time and funds.
The Quakertown Business and Professional Women’s Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at John’s Plain & Fancy Diner, Route 309, Quakertown. Networking at 5:30 p.m. and dinner at 6:00 p.m. Please contact Linda Moskal, Co-President, if interested in learning about us. 215-536-1325.
(top) Linda Moskal and Jeanne Schlicher received the Eleanor Knoke Award at the Fall District Eleven Meeting. (bottom) Dave Kunicki, Director of Intellectual Disability Services, is presented a check for $1500 by BPW Co-Presidents Jeanne Schlicher and Linda Moskal. submitted photos
December 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 5
Everyone Should Have These Four Basic Estate Planning Documents BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ. Regardless of your health, age or net worth, everyone should have these four basic estate planning documents in place:
Will
Should You Sell your Property During the Holidays? Selling a property in December can offer some distinct advantages to consider. Less Competition: Many sellers choose to wait until after the holidays or the start of the new year to list their homes. This means fewer properties on the market, potentially leading to more attention from serious buyers for your listing. Serious Buyers: While there might be fewer buyers actively searching during the holiday season due to personal commitments or travel, those who are looking tend to be serious. They might be relocating for work, taking advantage of year-end tax benefits, or seeking a deal before the market gets more active in the new year. Motivated Buyers: Some buyers are motivated to close a deal before the end of the year for financial reasons, like wanting to secure a home for tax purposes or before year-end bonuses are distributed. Festive Atmosphere: Decorated homes during the holiday season can create an inviting and warm ambiance, potentially appealing to buyers' emotions. A well-decorated home can showcase its potential for buyers to envision themselves living there. Tax Benefits: Buyers might be motivated to close before the end of the year for tax deductions related to homeownership, such as mortgage interest and property tax deductions.
Relocation Timing: Some individuals and families prefer to relocate during the holiday season due to school schedules or job transfers. Your property might align perfectly with their timing requirements. However, it's essential to consider potential drawbacks as well: Limited Availability: Real estate agents, potential buyers, and other professionals involved in the process might have limited availability due to the holiday season, potentially slowing down the transaction process. Buyer Distraction: Some buyers might be preoccupied with holiday-related activities, which could affect their focus on property searching and decision-making. Weather Challenges: Depending on your location, weather conditions during December might make property showings more challenging, especially in areas with harsh winters. Ultimately, while December presents opportunities for sellers, success often depends on various factors such as local market conditions, the property's appeal, pricing strategy, and the willingness of both buyers and sellers to navigate the nuances of a holiday season sale. Consulting with a local real estate agent familiar with your area's market trends can provide valuable insights and help you decide if selling in December aligns with your goals. 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.
For most people, a will is the estate plan center piece. A will distributes your property according to your wishes after your death. If you die without a will (intestate), the state will distribute your property according to their intestacy laws, and the people receiving your property may not be the people you intended. A will can also be used to name a legal guardian for minor children. If you and the child’s other biological parent die in the same incident (i.e. car crash) or you are a single parent, this function is extremely important. Additionally, a will can also be used to create certain types of trusts.
Advance Healthcare Directive You have the right to decide the type of healthcare you receive. In the event that you become unable to understand, make or communicate decisions about medical care, an advance healthcare directive allows your medical care wishes to be followed. An advance healthcare directive is a written set of instructions expressing your wishes for medical treatment. It may also contain a healthcare power of attorney, where you name a person called a “healthcare agent”, to make medical decisions on your behalf in the event that you are unable to do so yourself. An advance healthcare directive may also contain a living will, where you inform your healthcare agent and healthcare providers your choices regarding the initiation, continuation, withholding
or withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment and other specific medical directions.
Durable Power of Attorney
A durable power of attorney is a document that helps protect your property and assets in the event you become physically or mentally unable to look after your own finances. If there is no one ready to look after you finances, all of your hard-earned assets could go to waste. A durable power of attorney allows you to authorize someone else to act on your behalf. They will be able to do (among others) things like pay your bills, collect checks, monitor and manage your investments and file your taxes. You can execute two types: an immediate POA (which is effective immediately) and a springing POA (which is not effective until you have been deemed incapacitated, usually by certification from a medical professional).
Letter of Instruction
A letter of instruction (sometimes also referred to as a Letter of Testamentary Intent) is an informal document that typically accompanies your will. This letter is your way of expressing your thoughts and directions (typically regarding your burial/cremation instructions and where to find other important documents). While a letter of instruction is not an official legal document, it is often the most comforting document for the family members that you leave behind. Robert E. Fravel, Esq. is a Bucks County attorney located at 123 N. Main Street, Suite 101B, in Dublin, Pennsylvania. He specializes in estate planning & administration, civil ligitation, and business law. To set up a consultation, call his office at (267) 227-9138 or visit his website at www.fravel-law.com
Tails of Valor Founder Addresses Quakertown Woman's Club
Heather Lloyd, the founder of “Tails of similar needs as so many Veterans they have Valor,” located in Bucks County, addressed been helping. To read Veterans’ stories about The Woman’s Club of Quakertown at its how the dogs and this program have truly monthly meeting at the Spinnerstown Hotel empowered them to improve their lives, visit on November 7, 2023. Heather spoke about www.tailsofvalor.org. For information about the goals and achievements of her nonprofit The Woman’s Club of Quakertown, email organization. She was accompanied to the spindler115@comcast.net. meeting by “Fitz,” a 16-week-old miniature Labradoodle, just beginning service dog training in the program designed to help Veterans deal with the stress of war and to enable them to lead a better quality of life. The program trains service dogs for Veterans with PTSD, TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) and physical disabilities. Costs involved are 100% funded, including providing all dogs in the program with dog food for life. All the dogs participating in this program are named after fallen soldiers. Fitz was named in honor of Theodore D. Fitzhenry, a U.S. Navy Seal, who died in 2004. Since its inception, 70 dogs have gone through the program, with nine Veterans actively engaged with their service dogs currently. The program has just begun to extend its services to a retired policeman with Program Committee Member Stephanie Simak holding “Fitz,” Heather Lloyd of “Tails of Valor” photo by evelyn gerhart
6 • Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2023 Edith M. Alcaro, age 95, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on November 27, 2023 at Independence Court in Quakertown PA. She was the spouse of John Zimmerman, with whom she shared 13 years of marriage. Born in Philadelphia, PA she was a daughter of John Alcaro and Edith Alcaro of Philidelphia PA. Edith graduated from high school in Philadelphia, PA. She was a member of the Catholic church. She was the Insurance Adjuster for Prudential. She is survived by John Zimmerman (Son), Virgina Wydonminic (sister), and Phylliss Alcaro (half-sister). Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Eugene G. Appel, Jr. It is with great sadness, Chief Master Sergeant Eugene “Gene” G. Appel Jr., 80, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on November 8th, 2023, at home surrounded by his loving family. Born in Philadelphia, PA, Gene was the son of the late Eugene Appel Sr. and the late Emma (Ruth) Appel. Gene was predeceased by his sister, Lorraine Minissa. Gene attended Neshaminy High School. After high school, he served four years in the Navy from 1960-1964 as a Plane Captain. Followed by Civil Service and 30 years in the Air Force Reserves ending as a Master Sergeant and a flight engineer. Gene will be dearly missed by his wife, Judy, together they shared 60 years of marriage and raised their four children, Brent Appel, Cindy Appel, Dorene Appel Chapman, and Amy Appel; 8 grandchildren; and 5 greatgrandchildren. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). John Charles Bickley, 66, of Sellersville passed away on November 12, 2023. He was born in Abington on March 2, 1957 to the late Charles and Mary (Kavanaugh) Bickley. He was the loving husband to Joanne "Jodie" (Hickman) Bickley for 32 years. John loved working outside, being up in the mountains, and was an avid gardener. He always had a special place in his heart for his dog Wyatt. For the last year John started learning to play guitar, fulfilling a lifelong dream. John is survived by his wife Jodie; sister Bonnie (Roger) Mullock; and many other loving family and friends. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Rogelio Garcia, 76, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, passed away on November 7th, 2023, at Complete Care at Harston Hall. Born in Laredo, Texas, he was the son of the late Eusebio Garcia and the late Sarah Garza. He was a truck driver and worked as a construction worker for many years. Rogelio will be remembered as a funny, kind and caring man, who always helped anyone in need. In his free time, he enjoyed going for car rides, working on cars with his son, crossword puzzles, drinking coffee, and watching old TV shows. Rogelio’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with his family, friends, and his grand-dog Lulu. Rogelio will be dearly missed by his partner Rosemary Riccio, they were together for 35 years, his children, grandchildren, and his sister, Aurora Garcia. Rogelio was predeceased by his brother, Eusebio (Pelon) Garcia. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Mary A. Gillespie, 98, of Hatboro Pennsylvania, formerly of Upper Darby Pennsylvania, passed away on November 14, 2023. Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Mary Agnes Protesto (nee Feldkircher) and Robert V. Protesto. Mary’s life was marked by a profound love of family. She was one of seven children. Blessed with six grandchildren, she took great joy as an active participant in their upbringings and left an indelible imprint on each, sharing the values she gained growing up in a large family during the Depression, best expressed through her generosity, patience and empathy. Mary was also an athlete, attaining accolades as a teenager for her ability as a pitcher in
~Obituaries~
both slow and fast pitch softball leagues and maintaining a lifelong love of the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles. She was an avid bowler and bridge player, a member of a weekly card club that gathered for 35 years. Before retiring in 1992, Mary worked as a bookkeeper for Suburban Dunlop Tire in Warminster Pennsylvania. She was a member of St. Catherine of Sienna Parish in Horsham Pennsylvania, loved animals, and was also a big fan of ice cream and Minnie Mouse. Predeceased by her husband Joseph G. (Jay) Gillespie, siblings Christian Protesto, Robert Protesto, Jr., Mildred Stickley, James Protesto and Edward Protesto, she is survived by her son Jerry Gillespie, daughters Mary Kay Burns and Robin McKee (Scott), grandchildren Amanda McKee, Daniel Burns, Thomas McKee, Julie Duffy (Ryan), Colette RuppGillespie and Antonio Rupp-Gillespie, as well as her sister Catherine Pearson. Interment is at St. Peter and Paul Cemetery, 1600 Sproul Road, Springfield, Pennsylvania. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Artman Lutheran Home Benevolent Fund or the Dementia Society of America. Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
Carol Gene Hetrick, 76, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on November 17th, 2023, at Cedar Crest Hospital. Born in Quakertown, PA, Carol was the daughter of the late Robert Fox and Marian (Fox) Moyer. Carol graduated from Quakertown High School. She then went on to work at Quakertown Elementary School as a lunch lady. Carol’s greatest pleasures in life included going to the beach, cooking, and spending time with her family and friends. Carol will be dearly missed by her husband, George Hetrick Jr., together they shared 54 years of marriage; her children, George Hetrick III (Nicole), Steven Hetrick (Dawn), Matthew Hetrick, Johnathan Hetrick, and Melissa Hetrick; her grandchildren, Loni, Alexis, Grace (Raoul), Brandon, Jocie, David, and
Nick; her great-grandchildren, Ava, Isabella, Marcella, Mia, and Armonie; her daughter-inlaw, Rose Hetrick, and her siblings, Barbara Hartman (Greg) and Bobby Fox. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Norma E. Holmes, 83, of Sellersville, PA, passed away on November 17th, 2023, at LifeQuest Nursing Center. Born in Norristown, PA, Norma was the daughter of the late John “Bob” Bookheimer and the late Ada (Gehman) Sheppard. Norma loved to read, play games on her tablet, and watch movies. Norma enjoyed going on cruises with her family and friends, where they made unforgettable memories. Her chihuahua, Star, was always by her side or on her lap. Norma will be dearly missed by her children, Deborah McQuaid (Brian) and Robert Holmes (Nancy); her grandchildren, Jason Erb (Laura) and Brian McQuaid Jr.; her great-grandson, Jaxson Erb; her sister, Fran Bowers (Steve); and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Norma is predeceased by her parents, John "Bob" Bookheimer and Ada (Gehman) Sheppard; her brother, Robert “Bookie Bookheimer; and her nephew, Earl Bookheimer. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Betty J. Huber, 96, of Richlandtown, passed away on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, at Belle Terrace. Born on December 26, 1926, in Milford Square, PA, she was a daughter of the late Albert Edward and Pearl (Rosenberger Keiser) Hacker. A graduate of Quakertown High School’s Class of 1944, Betty was self-employed running an in-home cleaning service. Outside of work, Betty was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Quakertown, where she was very active for several years.
For leisure, she was an avid reader, enjoyed crossword puzzles, and took great joy in attending the Philadelphia Orchestra with her son. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her first husband: Michael Ewaniuk, who passed away in 1974; her second husband: Clarence Huber, who passed away in 2006; one son: John P. Ewaniuk, who also passed away in 2006; and two brothers: Floyd Hacker and Ray K. Hacker. Betty will be lovingly remembered by her son: David M. Ewaniuk, and his wife Paula; two brothers: Roland E. Hacker and Ernest L. Hacker; two sisters: Mary Emma Shelly and Janice Swartz; two grandchildren: Jonathan Landis, and his wife Beth; and Jennifer (Landis) Woods, and her husband Scott; four great-grandchildren: Matthew and Daniel Landis and Megan and Kara Woods; and several nieces and nephews. A graveside service was held on Saturday, November 25, 2023, in Quakertown Union Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Quakertown. Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
Bernadette “Bernie” Jones, 88, of Doylestown, PA, passed away on November 26th, 2023, at Park Creek Place Nursing Home. Born in Lambertville, NJ, she was the daughter of the late Norman Wood and the late Gladys (Ford) Wood. Bernadette is predeceased by her husband of 33 years, Courtland Jones, and her siblings, Richard Johnson, Joseph Johnson, Ronald Wood, Wayne Wood, and Lewis Wood. Bernadette graduated from New HopeSolebury High School. One of Bernadette’s true passions included volunteering at Doylestown Hospital, where she made an enormous impact in every life she touched. In her free time, Bernadette enjoyed watching the Phillies and baking pies. Bernadette will be dearly missed by her children, David Jones (Rosemary), Steven Jones, and Cathy Leopold (Matt); her grandchildren, Scott Jones (Leah), Courtney Jones, Danielle Bogage (Jacob), Mia Leopold, and Abigail Leopold; her siblings, Norma Reimer and Edward Wood. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Charles Richard Koenig, 92, of Coopersburg, passed away on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at Quakertown Center. Born on September 2, 1931, in Sellersville, PA, he was a son of the late Christopher and Stella Koenig. Charles was the proud owner and operator of Koenig Electric-he would often talk about his work. In addition to his parents, Charles is preceded in death by his wife: Joan Koenig, who passed away in 2017; one daughter: Joann Weikel; one son-in-law: Daniel Ziegler; and one brother: James Koenig. Charles will be lovingly remembered by three daughters: Bonnie Ziegler, Kathy L. Stoudt (Merrill), and Debbie L. Kurlowich (Edward); one brother: Robert Koenig (Garnet); eight grandchildren: Dan Ziegler, Doug Stoudt, Dawn Milligan, Tiffany Schantzenbach, David Weikel, Jimmy, Casey, and Heather Swinney; ten great-grandchildren: James Swinney, Jr., Xavier and Cody Swinney, Kelsey and Kyle Milligan, Austin Stoudt, Brandon Batcsics, and Carter, Ella, and Jayson Weikel; one great-great grandson: Damon Oscar; and several nieces and nephews. A viewing will be held at the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., 821 West Broad Street, Quakertown, on Friday, December 1, 2023, from 10:00am until the time of the funeral service, in the funeral home, at 11:00am. Interment will follow in St. Paul's Blue Church Cemetery. Sharon Lucier, 67, of Quakertown, passed away on November 24, 2023. She was born in Quakertown on December 18, 1955 to the late Charles Keeler and Edna Weil. Sharon spent the last 9 years with her loving partner Donnie Cunningham. Sharon was a wildlife enthusiast, loved bird watching (especially hummingbirds), and was always at her happiest outdoors. She was an avid reader. Sharon loved her family and would
December 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 7
regularly spend time with her grandchildren. Sharon is survived by her partner Donnie; children Lucas (Julianne) Lucier, Leta Lucier, and Nicolaus Lucier; grandchildren Hunter, Caydyn, and Memphis; siblings Barry Keeler, David (Kathy) Keeler, and Tim Keeler; best friend Linda Cardell; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; and brothers Charles Keeler, Pete Keeler, Ralph Weil, Robert Weil. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Madeline Frances "Maddy" (Mathews) Matthias, 88, of Hilltown passed away at Hidden Meadows on November 14, 2023. She was born in Abington on August 7, 1935 to the late Raymond Garis and Madeline Kathryn (Wermuth) Mathews. She was the loving wife of the late John Matthias for over 50 years until his passing in 2008. Madeline held several different positions over her lifetime. She was an avid knitter creating beautiful sweaters, blankets, and baby clothes for friends and family. Madeline is survived by her children John (Susan) Matthias and Richard (Taylor) Matthias; grandchildren Katie (Ryan) Lennon, Kelly (Brent) Bevenour, Mark (Meaghan) Matthias, and Eric Matthias; great grandchildren Avery, Callan, Dillon, Olivia, Caleb, and Sadie; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; husband John; daughter Debbie; and siblings Raymond, Dolores, and Janet. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Michael David Morlando, affectionately known as Mike, 58, of Royersford passed away from cancer on November 5, 2023 in Royersford, PA. Mike was born in Elkins Park, PA on September 12, 1965. He attended Quakertown High School. Mike worked as a mason and then a security guard. He was a music lover who played classical music on the piano and enjoyed playing the drums. He was an active member at Royersford Church of the Nazarene. He volunteered for Meals on Wheels and Illumination Community Outreach for many years. Mike is survived by his son Mike Fischer, his sister Collette Dierolf, and his brother David Morlando. He was a devoted uncle to his brother’s son, David Morlando as well as his sister’s sons Anthony, Joseph, and Tyler Ketterer. In addition, Mike is survived by six grandchildren, as well as six great-nieces and great-nephews (Avelio, Emma, and Emilio Morlando, and Kai, Runa, and Khalilah Ketterer). Mike is preceded in death by his parents Raymond Morlando and Charlotte Senavitis. Mike's family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to Grane Hospice; the doctors and nurses at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital; the staff at Parkhouse; and the support provided by Suburban Cremation Service. Memorials may be mailed to Royersford Church of the Nazarene, 445 Washington Street, Royersford, PA 19468. Eugene Franklin “Gene” Ortt, 101, of Quakertown formerly of Trumbauersville passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on October 28, 2023, at his residence at Independence Court in Quakertown. Born in Allentown, PA he was the son of the late Melvin S. & Alice M. (Miller) Ortt. Before his retirement he worked for the former Bethlehem Steel Administrative Department. In Gene’s early years he took dance lessons from the late Arthur Murray and continued enjoying dancing throughout his lifetime. He was also a bass singer for the Zion Choral Society and the Senior Center Choir, he also enjoyed performing in the Senior Center Musicals. He was a fiddler for the former Happy Rangers Band and played the violin in the Senior Citizens Impossibles. He was an avid bowler bowling in many different leagues. Gene was known as a proficient speller winning many spelling bee contests. He was a lifetime member of the Trumbauersville Fire Company and a lifetime active member of Christ Lutheran Church in Trumbauersville
~Obituaries~
where he was a member of the choir and bell choir. He is survived by his 103-year-old sister Evelyn Smoll of Quakertown and a sister Diane C. Landis (Jerry) of Quakertown; nieces and nephews Richard Smoll, Betty Smoll Christian, Cheryl Yeakel, Todd Besch, Karen Kuehne, Wayne Taylor, Kathy Orrok, Christine Ortt Shollenberger, 19 great nieces and nephews; and 22 great great nieces and nephews. Predeceased by a brother Clair and a sister Elizabeth “Betty” Taylor. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown. Memorial contributions can be made to the Christ Lutheran Church PO Box 569 Trumbauersville, PA 18970.
Robert “Neal” Petenbrink, 76, Army Veteran and Retired Police Detective, loving father and grandfather passed away on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at his home in Quakertown with his longtime companion and high school sweetheart Sue Hale by his side. Born in Wellersburgh, PA, he was the son of the late Robert Dale Petenbrink and Yvonne (Witt) Petenbrink. Neal was a graduate of Wilson High School and a veteran of the Army where he served 4 ½ years. Neal began his service in Georgia where he was studying to be Military Police. He was the youngest Captain, at the time, at the age of 21. He served a tour of duty in Fairbanks, Alaska and was a former member of the Fairbanks Police Department and a graduate of the Fairbanks State Police Narcotics School. Returning to Pennsylvania to be near his family Neal graduated from the State Police Academy, Hershey and joined the Pottstown Police department in 1971 where he began as a patrolman. During his tenure with the Police Department, he attended Penn State University where he pursued a degree in criminal justice. As a Detective Neal served as the head of the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Municipal Drug Task Force. During his career he received many awards including commendations for “Astute patrol, superior ability and professional technique,” for, “superior performance in administering justice” and unit citations. Neal was always active, starting the American Dream Corvette Club In the 1970’s. He was very proud of the accomplishments of the club such as running a Car Show at Sunnybrook and promoting the Big Brothers and Big Sisters Association. He also had an entrepreneurial spirit by opening and running Coventry Hobbies and Bear Motors for several years with his second wife Gloria. After retiring from the Police Department where he served for 25 years, he worked for Weiss Markets in Loss Prevention for several years. During the last 13 years Neal owned and operated Toys Are Fun with his Partner Sue, which began at Zern’s Farmers Market in Gilbertsville and then relocated to Quakertown Farmers Market. Neal was an avid deer hunter and enjoyed playing cards with his family. He was a devoted grandfather to his grandchildren; they affectionately called him Pop. He held a special bond with one of his grandsons who has severe autism. They were very close and enjoyed sharing in collecting Dragon Ball Z. He enjoyed trips to McDonald’s and Pizza with all his grandchildren. He recently enjoyed attending the wedding of his oldest grandson and was looking forward to meeting his great granddaughter. He is survived by his daughters, grandchildren, great grandchildren, 3 siblings, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is predeceased by a stepdaughter and great grandson. Burial will be held privately by the family. Emma Jane Richards, 85, of Quakertown, passed away on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at home surrounded by family. Born on April 25, 1938, in Milford Township, she was a daughter of the late Clayton R. and Helen V. (Meyers) Roth, Sr. Fondly referred to by many as "The Flower Lady" or "The Plant Lady," Emma owned and operated Richard's Plants in Quakertown for thirty-eight years. Although she retired
in 2008, she would lend a hand and expertise whenever called upon by her daughter. Outside of work, she was very active, spending much of her time outdoors and in her own gardens. She also belonged to Golden Agers of Pennsburg and Bally Senior Citizens. She was a long-time member of West Swamp Mennonite Church, Quakertown. Emma will be remembered as a generous and kind person who always thought of others before herself. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by six brothers: Clayton, Jr., Arthur, Kenneth, Samuel, Robert, and Clarence Roth. Emma will be lovingly remembered by two sons: Dean R. Richards, and his wife Donna, of Lititz; and Daniel R. Richards, and his wife Tracy, of Madelia, MN; one daughter: Roxie Richards, and her husband Mike, of Quakertown; two sisters: Ruth Pringle, of Levittown, and Betty Warnke, of Quakertown; ten grandchildren: Amber, Nicholas, Brittany, Krystal, Candice, Cameron, Daniel, Jr., Donald, Dennis, and Devin; and two greatgrandchildren: Delaney and Milo. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Interment is in West Swamp Cemetery, Quakertown. Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
Joan C. Ryder, 76, of Quakertown formerly of Bryn Mawr died November 14, 2023 in her home. She was the wife of the late John P. Ryder, Sr. Born in Bryn Mawr, PA she was the daughter of the late Jack & Catherine Cox. She worked in Environmental Services at Grand View Hospital, Sellersville retiring after 31 years of service. Joan enjoyed vacationing and volunteering at the Upper Bucks County SPCA. She loved all her pets especially her current cat Miss Hazel. She was a member of St. Isidore’s Catholic Church in Quakertown where she attended Mass regularly. Joan is survived by a son John P. Ryder and a brother Jim Cox. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Upper Bucks SPCA 60 Reservoir Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951. Bonita Marie Salamanca, age 89 of Doylestown, PA, passed away Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at her home. She was born on February 8, 1934 in Tacoma, WA, daughter of the late J. Manley and Bonita Carlisle. Bonnie was a graduate of Stadium High School where she was President of the Art Club, Hike Leader, Honor Roll, World Staff Leader, and member of the Royal Fins water ballet. She was also a member of the Tacoma Figure Skating Club and performed in many Ice Reviews and Ice Cycles. After high school, Bonnie left Tacoma for a 5-day train ride to Parris Island, SC where she completed USMC boot camp. Her first duty station was Cherry Point, NC where she worked officer’s records. Her next duty station was Camp Elmore, Norfolk VA where she met her first husband, a Naval officer and was discharged. From 1954 to 1975 she was a Navy officer’s wife and mother of two children. Stationed with VR-24 squadron at Port Lyautey, Morocco and Rota, Spain, she participated in Officer’s Club activities, traveled throughout Europe and the Near East, and served as Girl Scout Leader. Upon return from overseas in 1966 to Doylestown, PA, Bonnie taught swimming and water safety to the Red Cross. In addition to her love of swimming, she was an avid tennis player, artist, gourmet cook, master knitter, played piano and was long-time member of the Doylestown Methodist Church choir. She was a member of the Doylestown Tennis Club. And she volunteered many hours at the Pearl Buck Foundation and Meals on Wheels. In 1975, Bonnie reenlisted in the U.S Marine Corps Reserve as the USMCR’s oldest Lance Corporal. After meritorious promotions to Corporal, Sergeant and Staff Sergeant, Bonnie entered the Warrant Officer program. At age 65 she retired at the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4. Memorable assignments
included teaching combat swimming, serving on promotion boards, duty in Okinawa, Japan, serving as General’s aide, and participation in numerous joint exercises. All told, Bonnie had 22 years of service to her beloved Corps. In 2012, Bonnie was predeceased by her second husband of nine years, R. Wayne Bailey. In 2021, she was predeceased by her 1st husband of 30 years, Raymond J. Salamanca, from whom she was divorced. She is survived and dearly missed by her daughter Beth Salamanca and spouse Norma; her son, Ronald Salamanca; grandchild, step children and grandchildren and great step grandchildren. Interment of ashes was held November 10, 2023 (Marine Corps Birthday!) at the National Cemetery at Washington Crossing, PA. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Bonnie Salamanca’s memory can be made to the Woman Marine Association and the Bucks County SPCA.
Robert Dean Shuck, Sr., 53, of Quakertown, passed away on Sunday, November 19, 2023, surrounded by family at St. Luke's Hospice House. Born on August 16, 1970, in Bristol, PA, he was a son of Jack and Linda (Sailor) Shuck. A graduate of Harry S. Truman High School's Class of 1989, Robert went on to enter the workforce. He was a longtime truck driver for Rosenberger’s Dairies. Outside of work, he loved cheering on the Chicago Bears, spending time with his family, eating, and taking scenic drives. Robert loved his children and his granddaughter, Willo. Robert is preceded in death by his brother, Matthew Shuck. In addition to his parents, Robert will be lovingly remembered by his wife of thirty years: Jill (York) Shuck; two sons: Robert Shuck, Jr., and his wife Brooke; Bradley Shuck, and his girlfriend Jamie; one daughter: Samantha Shuck, and her fiancée Jonathan; one granddaughter: Willo; one grandson due in December: Hudson and his dog Ella. Services details will be announced online at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown. Linda Margaret Stackpole, 84, of Perkasie, Pennsylvania, passed away on October 31st, 2023, at her home surrounded by her loving family. Born in San Jose, California, she was the daughter of the late Edward Chaney and the late Lucy (Harrison) Chaney. Words do little justice to encompass Linda's loving, creative, and artistic spirit. She was generous with her talents and gifted a large majority of her beautiful creations. Linda will be dearly missed by her children, Priscilla Martin (Greg Martin), Deirdre Horton, and Brendan Stackpole; her daughterin-law, Maile Stackpole; her grandchildren, Chelsea Horton (Jonathan Labud), Kyle Martin (Ivelisse Nieva Feliciano), Misty DuFrain (Finn), Samuel Horton (Sara GaarnLarsen), Sheridan Stackpole (Carley), and Caolinn Martin; her great-grandchildren, Elijah DuFrain, Wren DuFrain, Oaklynn Stackpole, and River Stackpole; her siblings, Phyllis Gombert (Karl) and Carolyn Pickering; and her close friends, Susan Esparcia and Beth Rose. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). John Gebhardt Tuck Sr., 83, of Quakertown, passed at his home surrounded by family on November 10, 2023. He was born in Coatesville, PA on August 8, 1940, to the late Jack Pratt Tuck and Helen Ruth (Gebhardt) Tuck. John was a US Army veteran and loving husband to Jeri L. (Chavers) Tuck for 57 years. John was a 3rd generation clothier, a lifelong boater, and a car enthusiast. John is survived by his wife Jeri; children Stephanie (Joseph) Chinnici and John (Lynn) Tuck; grandchildren Zachary (Angelia) Mullen, Tyler (Taylor) Mullen, Samantha Tuck, Jacquelyn Tuck, Nicholas Chinnici, and Abigail Chinnici; and many other loving family and friends. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
8 • Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2023 continued from page 7
~Obituaries~
Norma Irene Weaver (nee Carlson) passed away at the age of 93 on Nov. 11 at Phoebe Homes in Richlandtown, PA. She was born on Nov. 5, 1930 in Worcester, Massachusetts to the late Howard Carlson and Irene Tarkiainen Carlson. Norma graduated from Commerce High in Worcester and worked throughout her life as a legal secretary. Norma always took pride in growing up in Worcester among her large extended family and friends. She was well known for her sense of humor, her sweet personality and her gift of gab. Norma was also a very talented accordionist; delighting many with her music. She even played at her 85th birthday party! Norma married Roy A. Weaver, Jr. in 1952, raising four children in Hopedale, Ma. When Roy's textile job moved to Spartanburg, South Carolina in 1976, they lived there until Roy's death in 2010. No matter where they lived, they were always dedicated workers in their local church. In 2012 Norma moved to Phoebe Homes in Pennsylvania to be near her daughters. She is survived by her daughter the Rev. Dr. Susan Weaver Ellis (David) of Quakertown, Kathy Nigro (Tom) of Randolph, N.J. and son, Donald R. Weaver (Wanda) of Columbia South Carolina. Norma had seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Roy, and her brother Howard Carlson (2010) and 2 daughters: infant daughter Sandra (1954) and Judith Weaver Moore (2022). Graveside Services will be in Hopedale Village Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Norma's family would like to extend our appreciation to the staff at Phoebe Homes in Richlandtown for their exceptional care of their mother. Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
Manley Keith Zacca, the son of Lera Morris and Lacelle Zacca, was born on September 2, 1936 in Cambridge, St James Jamaica. He is predeceased by his sister Doris Watts, his brothers Marcel, Phillip, and Lloyd. He is survived by his sisters Brenda, Lorna, and Allison. Manley was frequently described as a classy gentleman, he was always jovial, caring, and loving. He is survived by his wife Pat, his two natural sons, Nasciff Colton Zacca married Karen Zacca & Edward Tennyson Zacca engaged to Monyca Hill, and his ‘adopted’ son Kenny McGuire married to AnnMarie McGuire. His three grandchildren, Hannah Roman married to Frank Roman, Asher Zacca married to Courtney Zacca, and Matthias Zacca as well as his two great grandchildren Raylie and Zadie Roman. He will be mourned by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Robert “Bob” Michael Zurfluh Jr., 77, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on November 12th, 2023, at St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Hospital. Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Robert Zurfluh and the late Anita (Flynn) Zurfluh. Bob proudly served in the United States Navy from 1963-1967. Throughout his life, he worked for several warehouses as a millwright. Bob was a truly talented and artistic craftsman. Bob’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with his family and friends. Bob will be dearly missed by his wife, Mary Lee Zurfluh, together they shared 43 years of marriage; his children, David Zurfluh (Roslyn) and Erik Zurfluh; his stepchildren, William Deal and Matthew Deal; his grandchildren, Emma, Kyle, Alex, and 8 other grandchildren; and his siblings, John (Grace), Nancy, Joan, and Connie. Bob was predeceased by his sisters, Anita and Alice. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Ponderings by Palma BY PALMA MOYER, RN It has come to my attention that in this country senior citizens are tolerated, but not always respected. In some cultures the elderly are revered and respected for their knowledge and wisdom, and are treated with great dignity. The young are happy to visit with them and listen to those who made and lived history. It seems as if in this day and age that many seniors are lonely and yearn to have visits with their children and grandchildren. Seniors are often overheard saying they understand that children have to live their
lives and get ahead in a competitive world. Wouldn't it make everyone happy if the younger generation could learn from the past and build a better future for themselves and the world? I feel that this could happen by spending quality time with seniors. Itsalso important to teach children to respect and dignify the elderly for all the contributions they have made during their lives. Time to realize just because there is snow on the roof, doesn't mean the fire is out. Palma Moyer Palma is a 1957 graduate of Temple University Hospital school of nursing. She
The Flag
I remember a cold blustery day about 5 years ago, standing in formation at a cemetery East of Quakertown, waiting for the hearse to arrive for an interment. The thin linen dress pants of my honor guard uniform left the chill hit my legs as if I was wearing Bermuda Shorts. The hearse arrived and the flag draped coffin was placed next to the place of interment. The regular Armed Services team removed the flag, folded the flag, and gave the flag to the Veteran’s wife. Our Honor Guard fired three volleys, I rendered the playing of taps, and after gathering 3 spent cartridges representing “Duty, Honor, Country,” I presented those rounds to his widow. My legs no longer had a chill and I left the cemetery along with my fellow Honor Guard members with a special warm feeling in my heart despite the chill. As a youth, I remember my dad getting a 48 star flag out of the cedar chest on special days made of cloth with bold stitched stars and seeing him reach high on our front porch to attach that flag to honor those who served. I also remember the day I stepped forward in Philadelphia on May 7, 1965 when I pledged my LIFE to protect that flag and what it stood for at a time of pending warfare. I now remember a recent incident I experienced on our hunting trip to South Carolina just a few weeks ago. The day we arrived back in October of this year, we sat outside on a rather warm day after settling in to our rooms at a new hunting outfitters wonderful lodge. One of our hunting party associates, Tom Seifert, and myself noticed that a flagpole between the lodge and the outfitters home had two flags flying. One was the flag that his son Captain Christopher Seifert gave his ALL for, the American Stars & Stripes. We did not know the other flag below it. Old Glory showed signs of many strong winds and was tattered at the ends. This bothered Tom and myself. When we met with the outfitter/owner that evening to receive our instructions on our first day hunt, I mentioned to him that Tom and I would
like to purchase a new flag so the present one could be retired and proper honor given to the Stars and Stripes. In between the morning hunt and afternoon stand assignment we went to a local general merchandise store in the small town nearby and found nothing. When we returned from our morning hunt on the second day the outfitter asked me if I would come with him to the lodge kitchen window after we had our warm midday meal. I did so. He told me to look out and there on the very top of the flagpole was a deluxe brand new American Flag flying! I did not harvest a hog or deer, but I met a patriot. He thanked Tom and I for calling this important fact to his attention explaining how sometimes when you pass by something everyday things are unnoticed. We were not far (about 70 miles) from where the Civil War’s first shots were fired. Being the historian I am, I was always amazed how the flags of both sides and their regimental flags were so important in their type of warfare. Can you imagine being a flag carrier with no firearm at the front of the regiment waving the flag so the soldiers could move on in battle? They must have known that they were the first targets of the enemy as the enemy wanted to capture that banner and also cause the regiment to have confusion in the heat of battle. In many instances, when one flag carrier dropped, another soldier would drop his arms and pick it up to continue the charge. Now we were in the heart of what was once fierce fighting on our soil and a possible offspring of one of those soldiers who was on the “Other side” went out of his way to replace a tattered flag that flies over a UNITED States of America. The old flag will be presented to an organization that has an annual flag burning service. This is the America that the outfitter and I represent. Even though I came home from our hunt empty-handed of pork or venison, I feel that this small experience of a tattered flag being replaced was worth the trip. God Bless America! Dick Helm is a long time Quakertown area resident and regular contributor here at
UBFP. Reach him at rbh9@verizon.net.
“Seeing is believing, but sometimes the most real things in the world are the things we can’t see.”
- The Polar Express
shares her experiences and perspectives on nursing and on life. She enjoys hearing from readers at donthelpmemoyer@aol.com.
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.
So here we are at the season where we give thanks for the good things and people in our lives and we show people we care about them. My friend Coco is happy to be with his family again. I’m surprised I have to point this out to you humans but when you find a dog or cat, please notify the local SPCA or pound in your town. You don’t have to take it into them but they need to know where it is so if the owner calls, they can reunite them. Also stop by a vet for a microchip check. They do it for free. Not everybody does Facebook. Posters didn’t go up right away and you have to be in that area to see them. A phone call to the SPCA is easy. My human said she would have to be sedated if we ever went missing. I want to acknowledge my boxer friend Brandi. It wasn’t a happy outcome for her human but she sure brought a community together in the search for her. I’m asking all my 4 footed fans
out there to stay close to your humans. They need our help to stay focused on their lives. They are also the safest place you can be so run to them not off on an adventure. Merry Christmas! ~Love Peanut
Buckygrams: It’s A Wonderful Life, A Christmas Story, Elf, The Santa Clause, Holiday Inn, The Grinch, Little Drummer Boy, Frosty the Snowman, Scrooged, Prancer, Home Alone, Jingle All The Way Hidden Message: Wishing Holiday Blessings to All! Bucky Block: Try to understand.
December 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 9
American Legion Post 242 Update
BY DICK HELM The Veteran’s day service held at Strayer Middle School here in Quakertown was again a huge area success. Unfortunately, I noticed fewer Veterans in attendance this year than we had in other years. On a personal note, two persons I always looked forward to seeing at this function William Dietz and Clifford Wenhold were missing. They both recently answered their final “Taps.” I was glad to see the wonderful ladies that accompanied them in past years attending this service to honor Bill and Cliff. We Vietnam Era Veterans and those serving in the period of hostilities shortly after World War II known as the Korean conflict, are now the “Old Soldiers.” When called on this year, no World War II veteran’s were in attendance. Most of these Veterans that remain are now over 100 years old. I remember my dad speaking of seeing Veterans of the “Civil War” march in parades when he was a child. As long as the combined Veteran’s Organizations and interested Political Figures can have the fantastic support of our schools in Upper Bucks, we will hold these important Veteran’s Day Services! I feel that these services are for the children as well as honoring the Veterans. Patriotism is alive and well among “All of us” (Children, Veterans, & general public that
attend.) Our youth are our future and at these services on this special day, I see as a positive future for our unique society. Our Adjutant, Charles Wismer, informed me that the Youth Drawing event held on November 18th was again a great success. I missed going for a wonderful buffet as part of the benefits of those in the drawing as I was upstate closing up my Summer Home. He told me that they expect net receipts in the area of $3000.00 after expenses for this worthy cause. During the drawing two police officers stopped by to be presented with a check for $1050.00 to be used in the annual benefit named, “Shop with a Cop!” These funds are made possible as part of the net earnings on drawings such as these. As always I ask you to keep checking our new electronic sign for events happening at this family oriented organization. Remember to support our Sons of the Legion breakfasts that are open to the public one Sunday a month. Also don’t forget our Friday night specials! This evening I am planning to take my wife to the “Legion” for a Friday night special of Salisbury Steak Dinner. This is just one example of a great meal at a great price! Always remember to take time out to “Thank a Veteran” for their service to our great nation. ~ FOR GOD & COUNTRY, Dick Helm
Fritz own poop. That’s insane!
This week, a guest column from our blind dog Fritz. If you would like to follow Fritz’s commentaries on life, please read his commercial free blog at www.blindfritz.blogspot.
com. Last week, we had people come to visit and have dinner. They talked to me and petted me. They were super friendly, but no one gave me anything to eat. Not even the strangers, whoever they were! I know they ate. I could smell it. What the hell? You know, mom and dad never feed me when they eat. They always say they made too much and will save it for tomorrow or freeze the leftovers. What about me? Again, what the hell? Every now and again mom makes something on the stove and gives me some fried-up egg whites, or a piece of bacon on the weekends. Woof Woof…big deal…bacon and eggs a few days apart! I’m not too crazy about egg whites, but a dog has to take what a dog can get. I’ve even heard stories of some dogs that eat their
I don’t know why, but when I go out to pee, I’m given a treat. They switched to a smaller size because I was supposedly getting fat. I felt a little chunky, but since I’m blind, how would I know? I don’t think I’m fat. Maybe they have excessively high expectations, or dad is projecting his extra belly weight onto me. I don’t know, I’m happy with me the way I am. Shouldn’t everybody be? But I go out to pee a lot so I can come in and get another snack. Sometimes I don’t even pee. I go around the corner and wait a bit, then come back to the door. Fooled ‘em again! Most days, mom takes me for a very long walk. People often stop to talk with her. I lay down. They always seem very friendly, but yesterday some lady drove past, yelled at her, and said a bad word for no reason. Mom gave her the finger. Maybe I should learn to give the paw. John Schaninger is a lifelong resident of Pennsylvania and has lived in Upper Black Eddy for over 14 years. Reach him at m12string@aol.com
How the Federal Reserve Works
Have you ever taken a close look at paper money? Each U.S. bill has the words "Federal Reserve Note" imprinted across the top. But many individuals may not know why the bill is issued by the Federal Reserve and what role the Federal Reserve plays in the economy. Here's an inside look. The Federal Reserve, often referred to as "the Fed," is the country's central bank. It was founded by Congress in 1913 to provide the nation with a safer, more flexible, and more stable monetary and financial system. Prior to its creation, the U.S. economy was plagued by frequent episodes of panic, bank failures, and limited credit.1 The Fed has four main roles in the U.S. economy.
Economy Watch In addition to its other duties, the Fed has been given three mandates with the economy: maintaining maximum employment, maintaining stable price levels, and maintaining moderate, long-term interest rates.1 It's important to remember that the Fed cannot directly control employment, inflation, or long-term interest rates. Rather, it uses a number of tools at its disposal to influence the availability and cost of money and credit. This, in turn, influences the willingness of consumers and businesses to spend money on goods and services. For example, if the Fed maneuvers shortterm interest rates lower, borrowing money becomes less expensive, and people may be motivated to spend. Consumer spending may stimulate economic growth, which may cause companies to produce more products and potentially increase employment. When shortterm rates are low, the Fed closely monitors economic activity to watch for signs of rising prices. On the other hand, if the Fed pushes shortterm rates higher, borrowing money becomes more expensive, and people may be less motivated to spend. This may, in turn, slow economic growth and cause companies to decrease employment. When short-term rates are high, the Fed must watch for signs of a decline in overall price levels.
Supervise and Regulate
The Fed establishes and enforces the regulations that banks, savings and loans, and credit unions must follow. It works with other federal and state agencies to ensure these financial institutions are financially sound and consumers are receiving fair and equitable treatment. When an organization is found to have problems, the Fed uses its authority to have the organization correct the problems.
Financial System The Fed maintains the stability of the financial system by providing payment services. In times of financial strain, the Fed is authorized to step in as a lender of last resort, providing liquidity to an individual bank or the entire banking system. For example, the Fed may step in and offer to buy the government bonds owned by a particular bank. By doing so, the Fed provides the bank with money that it can use for its own purposes.
Banker for Banks, U.S. Government The Fed provides financial services to banks and other depository institutions as well as to the U.S. government directly. For banks, savings and loans, and credit unions, it maintains accounts and provides various payment services, including collecting checks, electronically transferring funds, distributing new money, and receiving and destroying old, worn-out money. For the federal government, the Fed pays Treasury checks; processes electronic payments; and issues, transfers, and redeems U.S. government securities. Each day, the Fed is behind the scenes supporting the economy and providing services to the U.S. financial system. And while the Fed's duties are many and varied, its focus is to maintain confidence in banking institutions. A Decentralized Central Bank The Federal Reserve System consists of 12 independent banks that operate under the supervision of a federally appointed Board of Governors in Washington, D.C. Each of these banks works within a specific district, as shown below. 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
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.
10 • Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2023
December 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 11
QCHS Production of Dracula Sets Bar Higher for Drama Program Last month, the Quakertown Senior High School drama program brought audiences to a land dark and old. Theatergoers were bid safe tidings on their journey through the darkened English streets to the ominous forests of Transylvania. So much of our lives circle our ability to control, establish order, and assert our agency. But in the dark, in those corners of existence where that control reveals itself to be nothing more than an illusion, that is where fear lives. Jonathan Harker has been tasked to travel across Europe, beyond the Carpathian Mountains, to a mysterious castle. There, he must finalize the sale of a Carfax estate to Count Dracula, a reclusive relic of a dying idea of the past, a remnant of royalty that steals away in the forgotten woods of Transylvania. But Harker’s stay proves more than tiresome, and his friends back home in England grow restless with concern. Among them, the young solicitor’s fiancé, Mina, will lead an unlikely group to discover the Count’s true intentions and thwart his evil plan. This story may be different from the tale you are familiar with. Against certain evil, our characters must learn to depend on each other and that despite society’s expectations, a hero, a true heroine, can come from anywhere. This story is dark; at times, it is violent. It shows us things we ought not to see. But where there is darkness, there is light to hold against it. Audiences traveled with Mina and Van Helsing to save those they love and stamp out this ancient evil. High school teacher and director Tyler Kitchenman remarks, “[Playwright] Laramie Dean provided a new take on the classic hero with this version of Dracula. Within my vision, I wanted to offer my understanding of the struggle many of us face as we grow and make mistakes. The drama program here at Quakertown has been growing over the past year, and I wanted to push our students' creative limits in response to this maturation. I wanted to show them they had what it took to create a genuinely memorable dramatic experience. I asked our young actors to see the imperfections within these characters and asked what we could learn from them. The result only furthered our growth as a program and a creative family. I cannot wait until next time when our incredible young artists once again grace the stage here at Quakertown.”
Approximately 600 tickets were sold to see the performance which was presented three times, a larger than usual audience for the program. Ticket sales netted over $7800 which is about twice what last Fall’s excellent performance, Alice in Wonderland, brought. Kitchenman spoke on his plans for the drama program’s future, “We plan to continue to grow. I want this program to become renowned in this area and beyond. The students here have the talent, the work ethic, and the determination to accomplish shows on a professional level, and I plan to facilitate that. We have yet to settle on a Fall drama for next year. This Spring, we will work with the music department to stage The Addams Family.”
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He continues “I am incredibly proud of this production. It has been a highlight of my creative career. I set out with a simple goal in mind. To push boundaries and be dramatic in a forum that has long since been lighthearted. I wanted to do so, in a sense, as a question. Could we pull it off? These performers did not disappoint. I can only hope that this experience provided them with lifelong memories and an arena to explore new parts of themselves, their abilities, and their understanding of what it means to be both an artist and a person.” Read more about the cast, crew, and the production at www.quakertown.net/dracula.
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12 • Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2023
Elizabeth Pederzani Named UBCTS Student of the Month
Elizabeth is a student at Upper Bucks County Technical School in the Automotive Technology program and a Quakertown Community High School senior. In addition to excelling in her studies, since May 2023, she has been in our cooperative education program at Cunningham's Automotive Repair in Ottsville, where she has made a significant impact in her role as a “Service Advisor.” Elizabeth greets the customers and writes up the repair orders for their vehicles that are in for service. After the technicians inspect the cars, she gets the repair order back, prepares an estimate, calls the customer, and sells the necessary repairs. Her time in the auto shop turning wrenches gives her the wmechanical knowledge to explain the required repairs to the customer adequately. Liz's dedication and commitment to her craft are evident in her impressive list of industry certifications, including: Subaru Level One Certified Mopar CAPS Level 0 Valvoline Motor Oil Credentials SP2 Communication Skills Training OSHA 10 Certified Lift It Right Training Her classroom and workplace achievements showcase her remarkable skills and potential. Liz's aspirations extend beyond the automotive industry, as she is determined to pursue a business degree while continuing her career in this field.
Liz's passion, work ethic, and ambitious
goals make her a shining example of the talent and drive within our student body. She has become a role model for other students and always offers help to anyone who needs
it. UBCTS proudly recognizes her as the November’s Student of the Month for her exceptional achievements and bright future. Mark Cunningham said, “She is an asset to the company and is great with the customers and, best of all, has been a fast learner.”
The future of Quakertown Elementary School hangs in the balance while the QCSD school board weighs its options for the continued use of the building as an elementary school or otherwise.
QCHS Alumni Spotlight:
What is the Fate of Quakertown Elementary? BY RAY FOX '66 As readers know, almost all my articles have been about QCHS graduates. I want to thank those who have told me how much they enjoy these articles. In January, I intend to come back to the traditional approach of having these articles focus on QCHS graduates. This month, I have chosen to go in a different direction and have chosen a topic that is especially important to former Quakertown School District graduates, educators, current students, and their families. The topic is the “repurposing” or “closing” of Quakertown Elementary School on seventh street in Quakertown. Many readers may recall the school, which was built in the late 1920’s, as where they went to High School, or Junior High School, or Elementary School. Yes, it is the oldest building owned by the Quakertown School District. There are two cornerstones on the building. The original one is 1928 and the building addition was done in 1967. You may be like my family where my father graduated from this school as his high school, I attended this school as a junior high school, my son, daughter, and grandson all attended this school as an elementary school. Some District history may be helpful here. Under the direction of former school boards and the leadership of former Superintendent Dr. Harner, QCSD sold Haycock Elementary School, Milford Jr. High/Middle School, and Tohickon Valley Elementary School. The school now being considered by the School Board for what they are calling “repurposing” is the present Quakertown Elementary School. The idea is to change the school from being an elementary school into the District Office. Among the issues is that the building is not air conditioned and may need some repairs. It is interesting to note that air conditioning may be a concern if adults move into the building but it is not a concern for the students already there. I must admit that some of my personal feelings and opinions may enter this article but I will do my best to stay with the facts. The first time I knew this idea was being considered was last January. In February, The Alumni Association drafted a letter in support of keeping QE as an Elementary School. All Association Board members signed that letter and it was sent to each School Board member. On February 23, 2023, Shannon Miller attended the School Board meeting and presented the Association's position on this topic. She was not the only one who spoke that night in support of keeping “QE” as an elementary school. Others spoke about the importance of keeping a neighborhood school in the Quakertown Community. On March 29, this topic was again on the School Board agenda. It was only three days before that meeting that it became known the Board scheduled the meeting not only to discuss the issue, but to vote on the issue. The Board of Directors of the Alumni Association discussed this prior to the meeting and again decided that we would support the idea of keeping it as an elementary school due to its importance to the children who attend the school. That March 29 meeting was extremely well attended with standing room only. Over twenty people including: present faculty, family members of current students, former students, and myself all spoke about the need to keep QE as an elementary school. It was obvious at that meeting that the School Board members are not in agreement on the issue. It is also a fact that, for some reason, the School District solicitor was not in attendance at the meeting. The School Board, with great difficulty in wording a motion, decided to table this issue and keep QE as an elementary school through the 2023-2024 school year. The feeling seemed to be that this would give the Board time to decide on a plan. To date, unless the School Board has been discussing this in private session, they have not come up with a plan. Soon we will be half way through the 2023-2024 school year.
After doing some research we found that the staff of the school and the children in that School have a wonderful relationship with each other and tremendous pride in the school. There are many outstanding things happening there. It seems that the issue comes down to two points of view. 1. The School District could sell the current District Office on John Freis Highway (Route 663) and possibly raise enough money to convert QE into the District Office. The big question with this is, where do the K-5 students go during this time of renovation and beyond. This approach seems to say that money is more important than what is best for students. There are many rumors floating around about this issue. One rumor has it that the students at Quakertown Elementary would be moved to the current Sixth Grade Center at the corner of Ninth Street and Main Street. Also, the current sixth grade students would be moved to the current Strayer Middle School, which is currently a grade seven and eight building. Some people I have spoken to believe that there is not enough room for three grades at Strayer Middle School. It is likely that either one of those buildings will need an addition, and it is even possible that both would need an addition. Another rumor is that, after all of this, Quakertown Elementary will also be renovated and then students will move back to the current configuration. As with any school construction, this either means sending students elsewhere during the construction or doing the construction by working around the students. There are surely pros and cons to both approaches. 2. The other side of the argument is to keep QE as an elementary school. This supports the idea that students are more important than money. Interestingly enough, at least one candidate for the School Board in the November election ran with a campaign promise of 'No More School Closings.' That candidate was voted in as a first time School Board Director and will be inducted at the December 9 meeting. I have spoken to some staff of the Quakertown Community School District about this issue. Sadly, my conclusion is that they are afraid to come out and take a position, but that their position would be to keep this elementary school open. To date, I have not heard where the new Superintendent, Dr. Freidman, stands on this issue. I am sure there are many points of view on this issue. I simply ask you to think about where you might stand on the issue and keep an eye on the School Board in the near future. You may need to come out to their meetings to show support for your feelings. It is likely that this whatever plan comes about, it will be discussed first by the Facilities Committee and then by the Board. One thing is sure, this controversial issue is not going to simply go away. 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 me 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.” Please note that this is the motto at the main entrance to Quakertown Elementary School.
December 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 13
Upper Bucks Students Present Devices to NASA They Made for Space Station Six senior students from Upper Bucks County Technical School (UBCTS) met with NASA representatives on Thursday, October 26 to present tang devices they manufactured for use on the robotic arm of a NanoRack CubeSat Deployer, which will launch 4-inchsquare satellites from outside the International Space Station. The project is part of the NASA HUNCH (High Schools United with NASA to Create Hardware) program, which was founded as a means of giving high school students new educational experiences by producing hardware training items for the International Space Station. The small satellites contain experiments for universities and businesses. NASA provides drawings, and the students manufacture the parts, which must meet standards within thousandths of an inch. Along with receiving the final products, NASA is provided with complete documentation including the materials and chemicals utilized to produce the devices. “Working with NASA has raised our standards and is opening doors that we never expected,” said Everett Cupak, a senior at UBCTS. After having their work inspected and approved, the students had the opportunity to sign the locker top of the CubeSat Deployer. “Teachers participating in this process have gone the extra mile to ensure students produce excellent, precision hardware for NASA,” said Florence Gold, Ed.D., NASA HUNCH Implementation Project Manager. “I would like to recognize Upper Bucks County Technical School for their outstanding work in making exceptional tang parts for Cube Satellite Deployers. Students in Mr. Canceliere’s precision manufacturing class are contributing to and helping NASA meet its requirements and goals of space exploration.”
“We are incredibly proud of our partnership with NASA, which exemplifies the extraordinary dedication, talent, and innovation cultivated within our educational community,” says Dr. Michael Herrera, Executive Director, Upper Bucks County Technical School. “In a groundbreaking achievement, our students successfully manufactured tang parts tailored
for the NanoRack CubeSat Deployer, a first in our nation's history for high school students to manufacture. Their names will forever be written on the Single Stowage Locker top, serving as a testament to their unwavering commitment to advancing science and technology. Today, we enthusiastically celebrate their remarkable accomplishments as they aim for the stars and contribute to the limitless possibilities of our future.”
“You can teach a student a lesson for a day; but if you can teach him to learn by creating curiosity, he will continue the learning process as long as he lives.” - Bill Beattie
14 • Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2023
Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship Bible Baptist Church 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 2nd Saturday Drive through pickup 9am. Community Dinner 3rd Thursday 5:30pm (eat in).
BY PASTOR JON BAUMAN Tis the season for lights, candles, car karaoke to old favorites, our delightful and hallmark-like tree lighting ceremony in town, and all of the Christmas and Holiday traditions that our families have passed on, or built fresh! It’s also the season for good memories of what used to be, or of who used to be with us, and hard realizations as we know that this year is different from the last. For some, it’s a season of joy, and nostalgia, and for others, it’s a season that they have feared to come; a season that used to be the best part of the year, but is now a reminder of who they have lost to celebrate it with. But even in the moments of uncertainty, or grief, the season speaks into our lives more than the Christmas lights and happy carols would make us believe. At all times, we can Praise God for advent, and for the true message of the Birth, and the coming, of Christ. Advent… that’s a churchy word, I suppose. A word that we use, but we may not know; at least to Know enough to explain it confidently.
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: Bob Stevenson 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. Palisades Community Bible Church 8730 Easton Road Revere, PA 18953 610-847-2637 secretary@pcbchurch.com www.pcbchurch.com Pastor: Rev. Corbin Seltzer, Jr. Sunday School (all ages) 9:30am, Sunday Morning Worship 10:30am, Tuesday Prayer Meeting 7:00pm, Men & Ladies’ Bible Studies - see website. “Walk by Faith.” II Cor. 5:7
But advent simply means “coming”. Specifically, it precedes the coming, the arrival, of an important person, thing, or event. And the season of advent, well… that’s a season of preparing for the arrival of who is, and who was, and who is to come. It is a season of acknowledging that whether we put up a Christmas tree to bring back the elation felt as children, or whether we gather around a table with missing chairs, the God of joy, hope, AND peace and love has come, is with us, and will come again. And Christmas, the day when Christ came to the world, is much more than a birthday celebration, isn’t it? It’s the fulfillment of the Hope of people who were denied understanding and justice, and who were given a leader who would experience the hardship they felt, and point them, and the world, to a better way. It’s the disturbance that the presence of Christ brings to a world that is so often alienating, self-serving, directionless, and hopeless.
“Freshly cut Christmas trees smelling of stars and snow and pine resin ~ Inhale deeply and fill your soul with wintry night.” - John J. Geddes
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 & children’s service at 10:30 Sunday worship. 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.
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
It’s the answer to so many prayers that had seemed to go unanswered; the answer to so many questions like wondering if God was there, and if he was…did he care? For we don’t have to ask, “what if God was one of us?” , because he has already been one of us when Christ dwelt among us. And Christmas, that glorious day, is proclaiming Joy to the World! Why? Because the Lord has come! Let earth receive her King! Christmas is God’s answer to our struggle, our pain, our longing, our sadness, our cries, and our doubt. Christmas is God proclaiming that our sorrow, and our longing for a better tomorrow, will not go ignored, but is heard by the God of all Creation. Christmas is gathering the saints of God, with Candles lit, and lights dim, as we sing silent night, holy night, when all was calm, and all was bright! For behold, we read, a
virgin shall conceive and shall call his name, Emmanuel. Because God Is with Us. So, whether you are already in the Christmas spirit, or whether it takes longer for you to feel it, may you know that the seasons of Advent and Christmas are seasons that acknowledge both your joy, and your struggle to find joy. For we can have hope amidst our silent nights because Jesus Christ is Born, the Holy Spirit is with us, and Christ WILL come again. Believing in this hope, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and I invite you to celebrate and observe this special day with your Church family, wherever you go to church, or may you use this season to begin the search for a church home if you do not attend one presently. And may we all rejoice that Christ is the Lord, as we praise his name forever! Amen. Jon Bauman is the senior pastor at First United Church of Christ in Quakertown. He can be reached at jbauman@firstucc.net.
Livestream: fb.com/pennridgechristianfellowship
December 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 15
2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid SUV Honda’s CR-V has been the top selling compact SUV in America for over a quarter century. And their hybrid variant represents over 53 percent of total model sales. To say CR-V is a popular SUV, is an understatement. It’s been around and proven. And you see lots of them on the roads. CR-V for 2023 is offered in FWD and AWD and in LX, EX, Sport Hybrid, EX-L Sport-L Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid. We had the privilege of testing the completely redesigned 2023 AWD CR-V Sport Touring Hybrid with a bit larger dimensions for added interior space and comfort. It sports a new bold, attractive styling and a new hybrid system that features a more advanced two-motor hybridelectric powertrain for added spunk and quiet operation.
Aside from its bold new exterior, CR-V’s interior is equally new with nicely supportive, ventilated leather seating that’s adorned with contrasting trim, a vivid 9-inch touchscreen with voice recognition, digital gauge cluster, paddle shifters, large HVAC controls that can be operated with gloved hands, and many more. The touchscreen offers several apps including Honda Link connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi Hotspot, navigation, a rearview camera with three different views plus satellite radio and Bose audio. CR-Vs console houses a robust gear selector plus a mode switch for Eco, Snow and Normal modes. Residing there as well is a wireless phone charger pad along with receptacles for wired charging. With a low 18.5-inch step-in, the back seats are sumptuously padded and can accommodate three tweens with good legroom (up to 41 inches) because the transaxle hump is very low and almost flat. The cargo area is especially spacious for a compact SUV. With the rear seatbacks upright, it offers a generous 39.3 cubic feet of space that measures 36 inches deep, 41.5 wide and 32.25 high. Flip the seatbacks and space expands to 76.5 cubic feet for 70 inches of cargo loading depth. Beneath the cargo floor is
a deep and large bin to stow items out of sight. The 2023 CR-V Hybrid gets its grunt from a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder in conjunction with the dual motors, produces a combined 204-hp and 247 lb/ft of torque. Coupled to a CVT automatic transmission, the CR-V Hybrid received EPA mileage ratings of an impressive 40 city, 34-highway mpg. Performance wise, acceleration is exhilarating and more so in Sport mode.
CR-V parks easily with its standard electric power steering and a tight 37.3 foot turning radius. It rides smoothly and quietly on Continental 19-inch tires that are 8 inches wide for good traction is snow and on wet roadways. Actually, the CR-V rides more like a midsize SUV. And with an 8.2-inch ground clearance, it can handle modest snow depths and semi-rugged off-roads. And the Sport Touring came with Hill Descent Control that operates at speeds from 2-12 mph which saves the brakes from wear and overheating instead of having to ride them down a steep grade. Safety-wise, CR-V Hybrid came standard with vehicle stability assist, rear cross traffic assist, rear cross traffic alert, driver attention monitor, blind spot monitoring and a nifty feature is the walk-away auto lock feature. Along with standard sunroof, heated front seats and steering wheel, the only extra cost was for delivery of $1,245 that took the base price of $38,600 to $39,845. The CR-V Hybrid offers a lot of content at a competitive price. And of course, it comes with Honda’s proven quality build and reliability. CR-V Hybrid carries a basic new car warranty of 3 years or 30,000 miles while the powertrain is covered by a 5/60K warranty. The hybrid battery itself offers an 8/100K warranty. All in all, the CR-V Hybrid is the perfect alternative to a fully electric SUV if you’re not sold on the EV concept. It offers impressive utility features, has miserly fuel economy, is family friendly and is simply enjoyable to drive. 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.
Quakertown to Dump Meters and Install Digital Parking System
ParkMobile, the leading provider of smart parking and mobility solutions in North America, will soon be modernizing parking in the Borough of Quakertown. Beginning January 3, 2024, the ParkMobile app will be available for on-demand parking at 1,209 on-street and offstreet parking spaces throughout the town. Once launched, users can pay for parking digitally via ParkMobile by entering the zone number posted on nearby signage directly into the app or mobile web browser. “For over 15 years, ParkMobile has been the trusted mobility management platform for cities across North America. We’re working toward our goal of making cities more livable by enabling cities to better manage their curb space to create improved flow and accessibility,” said David Hoyt, Managing Director of ParkMobile. “Through the adoption of our mobile app, Quakertown’s residents and visitors will be able to enjoy a seamless parking experience to spend more time enjoying the offerings downtown has to offer.” ParkMobile is focused on expanding its footprint for users across North America. By providing solutions to create an easier parking
experience, ParkMobile makes traveling throughout the country more convenient and streamlined. The smart parking and mobility company currently serves over 3 million users in Pennsylvania, with availability in Philadelphia through the MeterUp app and Pittsburgh. “The Borough is excited to announce our partnership with ParkMobile, a pivotal step towards transforming our parking system. We envision a community where residents, visitors, and downtown businesses can navigate and park seamlessly, free from the hassles of traditional parking systems,” said Borough Manager Scott McElree. “Together with ParkMobile, we hope to create an experience that not only prioritizes convenience but also boosts the vibrancy of our downtown.” ParkMobile has 50 million users across North America, is available for both iPhone and Android devices, and can also be accessed on a mobile web browser. To pay for parking via the ParkMobile app or website, users will enter the zone number or scan the QR code found on the signs located within the parking lot, choose the duration of time they wish to park and touch the “start parking” button.
Employment Opportunities
Think Local. Work Local. Be Local. G. Talley Carpet & Floor in Milford Square, a family-owned business, is hiring an experienced, reliable, highly motivated team member. Tasks include deliveries, must be able to lift material 50 lbs. plus, warehouse duties, knowledge of general construction & assisting installation crews. Top pay / based on experience. 8 am to 4:30 Monday - Friday. Must be able to pass a background check. Have a valid driver’s license. Call Meg Talley at 267-347-4841
support.
16 • Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2023
Childhood Holiday Vehicles
“The spirit of Christmas is the spirit of love and of generosity and of goodness. It illuminates the picture window of the soul, and we look out upon the world’s busy life and become more interested in people than in things.” - Peggy Toney Horton
No matter your age, getting a new vehicle as a holiday gift is always exciting. New automobiles, motorcycles, or bikes are tried and true holiday offerings that will thrill a close friend or family member. While these vehicles stir the senses, two other modes of transportation say “holiday” like no other. What are the vehicles that prompt both childhood and holiday memories? Sleds and wagons. Originally, sleds were among the most efficient ways to transport loads in snowy parts of the world. Sleds facilitated the movement of goods and people on frozen surfaces dating back many centuries. Distinguished by their long and narrow runner blades, sleds reduced friction and were able to carry heavy loads across the miles. Today, sleds are not used as much anymore for transport, but they are a symbol of wintery fun. More likely, sleds are used by students on snow cancellation days or sleds are transported from the garage to the front porch as part of a winter-welcoming decoration for the house’s exterior. Many of us recall our favorite wintertime pastime of racing down the hills of our neighborhood on our fastest sleds. Looking back, the tradition of painted sleds which boasted hand-colored images of running horses, reindeer packs, or Santa Claus debuted in the Victorian era, circa mid to late 1800s. These handsome sleds were used for fancy winter trips for children and adults. Around 1800, a sled for the purpose of carrying people was invented. It was known as a cariole. A cariole featured enclosed sides, a sturdy back, and a partially covered top or hood. On the secondary antiques market, special 19th Century examples of hand painted sleds with metal runners and cariole sleds range in value from $250 to $2,500. Over time, sleds were used for recreational purposes with variations on the basic form. One of the first sled patents was obtained by the S. L. Allen Company of Philadelphia, PA in 1889. When it comes to the engineering behind recreational sleds, most had flat runners until about 1907 and then, wooden bumpers emerged. An articulated bumper for steering was introduced in 1928 and straight runners were all the rage until the mid 1930s. One model, called the Lightning Speedster, had a rounded wooden front for easy turning by children sledding during its time of manufacture, circa 1939-1942. By the mid-20th Century, speed was king as indicated by the Speed King and Radio Flyer sleds were all about fast moving wintertime fun. In the American suburbs of the 1950s thru the 1970s, many companies introduced cool sleds for hilltop exhilaration. For instance, in the 1970s, the Radio Flyer Company marketed the Ski Sled which was intended for adults. The sled had a hand brake for safety, which made parents happy, but kids rarely used, and two skis beneath the raised seat for a ride that simulated skiing. The two skis allowed for edge turns and the sled gave a ride that was like experiencing the giant slalom. Where sleds offered speed, wagons provided comfort. Wooden wagons were some of the most inviting vehicles for children of the 20th Century. Wagons allowed kids to carry their
most important treasures with them wherever the holidays took them. Toys, security blankets, teddy bears, and even baby sisters were hosted in a child’s new and preferably red holiday wagon. First originating in the early years of the 1900s, Radio Flyer’s little red wagons remain a favorite with kids. The company was started by Antonio Pasin, an Italian immigrant. Pasin started the firm with the introduction of the Liberty Coaster wagon named for the Statue of Liberty. His firm grew throughout the 20th Century to make Radio Flyer wagons known to millions of children. Radio Flyer’s red wagon became a popular favorite and common gift at holiday time for good girls and boys. Today, they show up at yard sales, estate sales, and auctions and bring good market value from collectors and sentimental shoppers.
Pictured: Vintage oak sled, circa 1960s-70s Steiff wagon with logo, circa 1950-60s
By the 1950s, the red wagon became an iconic American toy vehicle. At that time, Radio Flyer wagons were marketed to specialty audiences like the Mouseketeers from the Mickey Mouse Club or adventurous kids that wanted to ride in a Davy Crockett style wagon. Steiff, the popular German toy and teddy bear manufacturer, manufactured wagons featuring their teddy bear logo to accommodate every child’s holiday gift haul of toys. This marketing strategy helped the collectibles market for the wagons prompting many collectors to add them to a long list of must haves. By the end of the 1960s, Radio Flyer had turned fifty and introduced the Skat Racer to a dedicated audience. The Skat Racer was a new children’s vehicle that offered innovations where the earlier pedal cars fell short. Kids of the trendy 1960s and 1970s could, in a Skat Racer, enjoy a lightweight design, a safe ride, and a sleek new look. This vehicle was a perfect addition to the host of cool kid toys parked in many suburban America garages. Move over pedal cars, sleds and wagons are making a comeback. Happy holidays! Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning media personality, Dr. Lori presents antique appraisal events nationwide, appears on Netflix’s King of Collectibles, History channel’s The Curse of Oak Island and Pawn Stars do America. Visit www. DrLoriV.com, watch videos on www.YouTube. com/DrLoriV or call (888) 431-1010.
“If you want to experience the true meaning of Christmas, give something to someone who can offer nothing in return.” - Toni Sorenson
December 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 17
Bradley Palmer Named Pennridge Schools Assistant Superintendent
The Pennridge School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Bradley Palmer as Assistant Superintendent. With a solid educational background and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Mr. Palmer is anticipated to contribute significantly to our district's continued success. Bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role, Mr. Palmer has consistently demonstrated success as an administrator through innovative approaches, transformative leadership, and a profound understanding of various educational initiatives. His dedication to providing students with a high-quality education aligns seamlessly with the values and goals of the Pennridge School District. Mr. Palmer is replacing Dr. Anthony Rybarcyk, who is resigning after nearly nine years at Pennridge to take a new position in another school district. Mr. Palmer will oversee, supervise, and assist all K-12 Principals in our Pennridge schools and support Superintendent Angelo G. Berrios III in a new vision and mission at Pennridge. Mr. Palmer explains, “I am honored to join the Pennridge School District. I look forward to joining the district’s long tradition of excellence. I look forward to collaborating with the administrators, teachers, families, students, and community members to provide a worldclass educational experience for our students.” Mr. Palmer is a graduate of Temple University, has earned a B.S. in Science Education and an M.S. in Education, and is currently completing his Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Arcadia University. His area of research focuses on STEM education and inquiry-based science instruction. Together with a collaborative team, Mr. Palmer has been an important part of the success at Abington Senior High School serving as a Chemistry and Physics teacher as well as the Science Department Chair. He has assisted in district initiatives in the areas of STEM, Advanced Placement (AP) course implementation, development of Career Pathways Model, grade reconfiguration, and block scheduling. Mr. Palmers is an assistant principal at Abington Senior High School. Superintendent Angelo Berrios of Pennridge enthusiastically welcomed Mr. Palmer's appointment, expressing, "We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Palmer into the Pennridge family. His substantial experience and commitment to academic excellence make him a perfect fit for the Assistant Superintendent position. With a proven track record of achievements and an innovative leadership style, we view him as an invaluable addition to our district. I am confident his leadership abilities, when fused with the experience of Assistant Superintendent Dr. Kathy Scheid, and each member of our administrative team, will drive our future
growth and student outcomes.” Dr. Scheid added, “I am looking forward to partnering with Mr. Palmer to lead the Pennridge School District to its highest potential.” Mr. David Reiss, President of the Pennridge School Board, also expressed excitement
QMFA Cheer Team Places at Regionals about Mr. Palmer's appointment, stating, "We are thrilled that Mr. Bradley Palmer is now part of our educational leadership team. His experience perfectly fits the Assistant Superintendent role with his teaching and administrative background and strong dedication to maintaining academic standards. I firmly believe Mr. Palmer will greatly enhance our district's success and development." Mr. Palmer also brings a strong sense of connecting the community to our school staff. He looks forward to working with Pennridge’s Director of Communications and Community Relations, David Thomas, on future Pennridge School District initiatives similar to his experience in the Abington School District. Namely, Mr. Palmer served on the Executive Board of ACT, the Abington Community Taskforce, led by district leaders and local law enforcement to provide support and programs to support students involved in scouts, local churches, and other charitable organizations. This experience will couple well with Pennridge’s soon-to-be-launched “RAMPP” (Ram Partnership Program), which was founded with similar goals to Abington’s ACT. Within the next year, the Pennridge School District will empower teachers and the regional community through the PEF (Pennridge Educational Foundation) by providing teacher grants and supporting innovative instructional programs, including classroom technology, arts and music, and STEM initiatives while working with community groups, local businesses, and donors to support our fundraising community events. Mr. Palmer has been the co-chair of the AEF, the Abington Educational Foundation for several years.
Generations of Indian Valley Celebrates 50 Years of Meals on Wheels
This year the QMFA PeeWee Silver cheer team placed second in their division at regionals in Trenton which qualified them to attend nationals in Orlando in early December. This is a team comprised of some cheer veterans but also many new athletes. submitted photo
18 • Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2023
The answers to the puzzles on this page are found elsewhere in this issue.
Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.
The Penn State Extension Master Gardener Program services all of Pennsylvania’s counties statewide. The Primary source for funding is the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Each year the Master Gardener Program reports its yearly accomplishments to the NIFA. Here are a few highlights from the report. Master Gardeners answered 29,251 questions from the public in the 2022 to 2023 year • In 2023 Master Gardeners volunteered over 19,000 on the Garden Hotline. • Of the total disease and insect questions, approximately 93% and 05% respectively were answered by Hotline volunteers with less than 7% and 5% respectively forwarded to the University, providing the public with timely high-quality responses to plant health issues. The Seed to Supper Program has had outstanding evaluations from participants • 67% strongly agreed that the program helped them to grow their own food. • 58% strongly agreed that it helped them learn more about resources available to them in their community. • 90% strongly agreed that it connected them more within others in their community. The Pollinator-Friendly Habitat Certification Program has now certified 1156 PollinatorFriendly Habitats across 59 counties. The Master Gardeners in partnership with the Pesticide Education Program (“Mr. Yuk”) educated 18,087 students in 280 schools in 48 counties across the state.
The Bee Monitoring Project (in collaboration with the Lopez-Uribe Lab) now has 20 specially trained Master Gardeners who dedicated 1,660 hours to bee population monitoring and public outreach • Over the course of the project Master Gardeners and researchers have collected over 6,000 bees across 30 counties in Pennsylvania. • The project earned First Place in the research category of the David Gibby International Search for Excellence Awards, presented in June at the 2023 International Conference in Kansas City. Individual Bucks County data is currently being compiled and will be available in 2024. (This information was provided by the Master Gardener Leadership Team: Erin Kinley, Andy Faust, Val Sesler, and Lori Wallace; Relayed by Joan Pavlica, MG/MWS If you would like information on any of the above programs contact the Bucks County Hotline Team. Our home Garden/Watershed hotline is still open! Emails are still being answered by our trained Master Gardeners and Master Watershed Stewards. For fastest service use email. You can still call if you prefer. Leave a message and we will return your call. “Ask a Master Gardener/Watershed Steward” Penn State Extension Bucks County BucksMG@psu.edu • Phone: 267-483-2020 576 Penns Park Road, Newtown, PA 18940 Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!
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UBFP • 582 S. West End Blvd, Ste 2 • Quakertown, PA 18951 info@ubfp.org • fb.com/ubfreepress • www.ubfp.org
Astro Balto Bambi Bolt Bugs Clifford Copper Daffy
Droopy Eeyore Garfield Goofy Gromit Krypto Lady Marmaduke
Odie Piglet Pluto ScoobyDoo Simba Snoopy Sylvester
Thumper Tigger Tramp Trusty Tweety Wishbone Yogi
December 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 19
Autumn Along Tohickon Creek Autumn is my favorite season. From its warm, colorful start through Halloween, then into hunting season with things all turned brown, on to crisp, misty mornings with ice-filmed streams reflecting gray December skies; I like all parts of autumn. Growing up on the border of Quakertown and Richland Township open country beckoned from my window. Across open fields, behind a far tree-line, ran the ‘famous’ Tohickon Creek. It had history, had grown myths and drew me. But the Tohickon was deep, murky, and off-limits until I could swim. Then, I spend much time there, adventuring. From Tohickon Ave/Rte. 212. Bridge, downstream past Erie and Thatcher Rds. to old Dragon Hill Quarry on Axhandle Rd., that mile-and-a-half of stream was my realm. It was a land of horse and cow pastures, brambles, hedges, woods, and croplands. Hunting, fishing, arrowhead hunting, exploring the crumbling farmstead and trash dump, occupied me. I rafted and row-boated on Tohickon Creek. I skated and played hockey on shoveled rinks while forming history myths of my own. The Tohickon is the second largest stream in Bucks County, PA. Surpassed only by the Neshaminy, it is 29.5 miles (47.5 km), long. ‘Tohickon’ is a Lenni-Lenape place name. Its origin and meaning are disputed. Some say it derives from To-hick-han (or To-kickhanne) pronounced similarly in English. It means “Piece of Wood Area” or “Where we cross the stream on driftwood.” Other studies of the Unami dialect of the Lenape’s Algonquin language suggests Achtuhhu ing (pronounced Awk-too-who ing), meaning, roughly, “Deer’s Place”. Today, an accepted translation of Tohickon is “Deer-bone Creek.” The Tohickon’s source is in Springfield Township a half-mile from the Lehigh County Line. It arises in Rocky Valley from a cleft between two high hills, the northern one rising to 880ft., the southern to 740ft. A rivulet accumulates from the outflow of several small springs on these hills and is labeled ‘Hickon Creek’ on 18th century maps. The stream flows southeastward and crosses into northern Richland Township about a mile and a half northwest of the village of California. Before flowing past old McCoole’s mill and hotel in that hamlet, the Tohickon is joined by a tributary that crosses Rte. 309 from the west, and is nearly as large as the mainstream. From California, the Tohickon continues southeasterly across Richland Township. It crosses Cherry Rd., E. Pumping Station Rd., Rte. 212/Tohickon Ave., Erie Road and Thatcher Road. Just east of Quakertown, within a quarter mile of its course, the Tohickon is joined by several creeks that drain the old Great Swamp region. This multi-stream confluence has been populated for many thousands of years. Some of the best and most abundant evidence of aboriginal cultures in the region have been found along the Upper Tohickon. Tohickon tributaries include: Richlandtown Creek, and a sister-stream that cross Raub Road, combine, then cross Erie Road in a famously flood-prone area. It then follows a tree-line and pasture to a lazy confluence. Licking Run, runs lengthwise through Quakertown and absorbs Beaver Creek’s flow near E. Broad and Franklin St. It then parallels Rte. 313, curving eastward out of Quakertown past the sewer plant*. After another quarter-mile
of fields and woods Licking Run joins the Tohickon. Morgan Creek drains The Swamp from lower Milford Township. It crosses Rte. 309, Old Bethlehem Pike, and Rte. 313 north of Thatcher Road. It joins the Tohickon within sight, upstream from Axhandle Bridge. *[Quakertown’s wastewater plant is permitted to discharge daily several million gallons of treated sanitary sewer water into the Tohickon Creek. The outfall is between the Erie and Thatcher Rd. bridges. Disinfected effluent substantially increases the creek’s flow, increases the dissolved oxygen content, and generally improves water quality. Regular DEP/EPA testing assures that Clean Water Act regulations are met. Winter waterfowl love the warm water discharge, too]. Bog Run, which traverses the Quakertown Swamp Preserve, also joins the Tohickon. It crosses Rte. 313 south of Paletown Rd., and merges a half-mile downstream from Axhandle Bridge. The Tohickon then turns northeastward, taking an arcing path into Haycock Township. It crosses Richlandtown Rd. then Covered Bridge Rd. before turning southward again. It’s joined by another rivulet before being encountering Hasken’s Dam at Weisel Park Youth Hostel. The “original” Tohickon overflowed and followed a rocky path past a grist-mill and stone quarry. It was joined by Three Mile Run near the village of Weisel (Lake House Inn), and abruptly turned northeastward, again. The steream then flowed down a fertile valley, past Keller’s Church. Haycock Creek joined it in the shadow of the Mountain and the Tohickon continued into Nockamixon Township. Today, however, a large part of the Tohickon Valley is beneath the waters of Lake Nockamixon, which was flooded in the early 1970’s (see Haycock Historical Society publications on the flooded areas). After overflowing the dam, the creek now follows a rugged, winding path, and crosses Rtes. 113, 611 and Dark Hollow Rd., enroute to the Delaware. Joined by Deep Run along its route to the Delaware forms boundaries between Haycock, East Rockhill, Bedminster and Tinicum Townships. At Ralph Stover Park, the Tohickon cuts through a deep, rocky gorge, the north side of which is High Rocks State Park. Tohickon Canyon is a nationally renowned white-water kayaking course and rock-climbing destination. The creek then passes under River Road/Rte. 32 and a Delaware Canal viaduct before emptying into the Delaware River at Point Pleasant, PA. Besides by Nockamixon State Park lands, the Upper Tohickon is protected by preserves such as Quakertown Swamp and Weisel Park. Abutting Open Space properties, secured by the county and various private organizations, add to the protected acreage. Local zoning and National Flood Insurance regulations add to protection in low-lying and developed areas. The Lower Tohickon is monitored by the Delaware River Commission, the Pennsylvania Canal System, County and State Park Systems, and the DEP/EPA. Efforts are underway to have several Colonial Era bridges still crossing the Lower Tohickon declared a State Historical District. So, now you know something about the ‘famous’ Tohickon Creek and how it has become, especially in autumn, an important part of the myth my life is. Jack Schick is a long time Quakertown
Upper Bucks Chamber Presents Awards The Upper Bucks Chamber of Commerce is proudly announces the 2023 Chamber Award Winners. The awards were presented at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Roast & Toast event at their offices in November.
New on the Scene Award Rob Loughery, Dublin Town Center Chamber Impact Award Kara Guerra, ServPro of Upper Bucks Excellence in Business Award Brian Benner, Weiss Insurance Agency
area resident and regular contributor here at
UBFP. Reach him at sjckschc@aol.com
Vets Honored, Students Educated at Upper Bucks Veterans Day Event
The Upper Bucks Veterans Organization's 35th Annual Veterans Day program was held Friday, November 10th at Strayer Middle School in Richland Township. Veterans spoke to students about service and their time in the armed forces and those Veterans were honored
for their sacrifices in theirs calls to duty. Middle School students from Quakertown, Palisades, and Pennridge were in attendance. State Representative and Navy veteran Craig Staats led the program.
(l-r) Rob Loughery, Kara Guerra, Brian Benner, and UBCC Executive Director Danielle Bodnar photo by michele buono
20 • Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2023
29th ‘Quakertown Cares’ Campaign Off to Good Start! BY JANE THOMPSON-SMITH ‘QUAKERTOWN CARES’ COMMITTEE MEMBER
It’s Thanksgiving. A time to reflect upon all of the things for which we can be thankful. Family, friends, home, health. For many, there is much for which to be thankful. For others, it is hard to see past the struggles in order to have gratitude. This Thanksgiving, let’s try to slow up and notice that for some, everyday life can truly be a fight for survival. A fight for basic necessities, such as shelter, sustenance and much needed healthcare. These struggles are not new. They are a fact of life. And they are everywhere. Even in little old Quakertown. Just take the time to look around you, and you will see. Quakertown is a special place. It’s a place where community is still important. Rich, poor and in-between, many Quakertonians do take the time to see. And that is why I can proudly announce to you that in the early weeks of the 2023-24 “Quakertown Cares” campaign, $34,083 has been collected for local families (including members of Head Start),
seniors and veterans in need. Because of the caring and generosity of those who are able to give, “Quakertown Cares” has been able to help more than 300 individuals and families, in addition to giving $50 Giant cards to 145 recipients during its Holiday Turkey project. And, three vital "angel" contributors have already given to the campaign! The Zeigler Family Foundation, with an incredible $15,000 donation, has supported “Cares” for well over two decades, as has an anonymous Quakertown business ($10,000), and an anonymous Quakertown area family foundation ($2,500). Literally thousands of our neighbors in need have benefitted over the years from these amazing leadership contributions. To give you an idea of the difference “Cares” is able to make in the lives of community members, let me share that one past recipient wrote to let campaign leaders and those who give know that she (a single mother) and her children now have a secure, subsidized apartment to call home. "Thank you for your help when we were first homeless, it
really helped,” she said. “Quakertown Cares” is truly a personal campaign. And we have come to know that those in need are far from a stereotypical group. Life is anything but predictable. Literally anyone could find him or herself in need of help. “Cares” has aided several homeless senior citizens in recent months, one living in her car and experiencing food insecurity. In such situations, a supermarket gift card seems a godsend and is deeply appreciated. And the need doesn’t end with the flip of a calendar. As we transition from Thanksgiving to the winter holidays, the helping will continue. “Cares” will partner with the Salvation Army to provide Target gift cards to school families. To receive help from “Quakertown Cares,” recipients must live within the area of the Quakertown Community School District. Contributions to “Quakertown Cares” are tax-deductible, as the fund-raiser is a 501(c) (3) charity. Every dollar contributed goes to neighbors in need, as “Cares” has no
administrative expenses and no employees. It is run by volunteers, several of whom have been leaders of the campaign for all of its 29 years. The following are our latest contributions: $15,000: Zeigler Family Foundation; $10,000: Anonymous local business; $2,500: Anonymous family foundation; $1,500: Classic Staffing Services; $700: Janice and James Newcomer; $450: Hutchinson, Gillahan & Freeh; $400: Anonymous Richland Township residents; $300: Anonymous Milford Township residents and Evelyn and Darwin Gerhart; $250: Michael and Virginia Post; $200: David and Ginger Woodbury and Reverend Cheryl Stoneback; $125: Robert Myers; $100: Wm. Pitt Hartzel, Joan and Richard De Tuccio, Fay Oeltjen Bruns, Steven and Linda Cardell, Anonymous Haycock Township resident; $50: Carol Hauff, Anonymous Richland Township resident; $35: Anonymous Quakertown Borough and Hellertown residents; $25: Anonymous Richland Township and Quakertown Borough residents
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