Upper Bucks Free Press • February 2023

Did

We mail small batches to different zip codes every month to help spread the word to people who may not know what they’re missing! Please pick up your next

at any of the many locations listed

QUAKERTOWN AREA

A-Pl Mini Ma ke

Bab hka’

Bo o gh Hall

C C Confec on Cai l n Cod

Cla ic S affing

Dai Q een

Econo Lodge

F iendl Book S o e

Gian Food Ma ke

G oce O le

G nd Ho e Ham on Inn

Holida Inn E e Inde endence Co

Jame Michene Lib a

Libe Th i� S o e

Mi acle Ea

Mo gan E en al

Mo e Shoe

Penn Comm ni Bank

Pe Bo ( e ice lobb )

Q ake Cleane

Q ake o n Ali e!

Q’ o n Fam Re a an

Q’ o n Fa me Ma ke

Q ali Inn

QNB Bank

Re . C aig S aa office

Sal Pi a Randa

Sine

S . L ke Bone Join

S . L ke Ho i al

S ing Hill S i e

Tohickon Cam g o nd

U e B ck Chambe

UBFP Office (R e )

TELFORD Indian Valle Lib a Landi S e ma ke

TRUMBAUERSVILLE

Bo o gh Hall

Ea l P b G ill

Fino Pi e ia

S o Gene al S o e

RICHLANDTOWN

Se en-Ele en

Phoebe Meado Glen

SPINNERSTOWN

S inne o n Ho el

E J Ba be Sho

PLEASANT VALLEY

S ingfield Dine

SELLERSVILLE

A N Dine

Hidden Meado

Ro Ann Dine

BEDMINSTER

Wei Ma ke

PERKASIE

Gian Food Ma ke

Haa i Bake

Landi Food Ma ke

Pie ce Lib a

QNB Bank

SILVERDALE

Bol on Fa m Ma ke

G een S ee Ba be Sho

OTTSVILLE

Dolla Gene al

NAPA of O ille

Weh ng Home Cen e

REVERE

To of he Mall Deli

Re e e Gene al S o e

COOPERSBURG

The In ide Scoo

Pool P o

SPRINGTOWN

Jen Ba be Sho

Village Cen

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What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

ONGOING:

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

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

WINTER FOOD MARKET at Perkasie Fire Hall every 2nd & 4th Sat. 10am-12noon each month thru May 13. FMI: 215-257-5065 or events@perkasieborough.org

February 1

Robert James Investments monthly Coffee Club at 9am. Topics include market update, current events, & local happenings. First Wednesday of each month, 9am. Call Victoria at 215-583-5013 for info & to register.

February 2 GroundhoG day

Trumbauersville Hoagie Sale (order by Feb 3, pickup Feb 13) FMI: Marilyn 215-536-2518 or Jen 215-989-0909.

February 4

Homemade Soup Day at Dublin Fire Co, 194 N Main St. Call to order quarts on Soup Day ($9/quart) 8am-11am at 215-249-3740. No eat-in available. Pick-up from 10am-1pm. Bingo every Saturday night at Great Swamp Fish & Game, 2650 Schukraft Rd, Quakertown. Doors open 4pm, games begin 6pm.

February 8

Woman’s Club of Indian Valley will meet 1pm at Telford Community Building, 125 W Hamilton Ave, Telford. We will fill “Jared Boxes” to donate to Doylestown Hospital, so they can distribute to young patients during their stay. FMI: WomansClubofIV.com or 862-251-3076.

February 9

‘Finances for Teens’ Special Event, 4pm at The Drop, 501 W Broad St, Quakertown. Mary Finlayson (Branch Mgr of QNB Bank) will be here to educate & answer any questions you may have about banking, student loans, budgeting, more. Snacks will be provided. Virtual Author Talks on Zoom with bestselling writers. Today’s author is Lana Harper at 7pm. Register: library.org/ buckslib/23500/register

February 10

‘Valentine’s Sip & Paint’ 6pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd in Event Rm 210. Fun evening of painting & wine. $30 includes choice of two paintings and 2 glasses of wine. Tkts online at Eventbrite. FMI: sara@ quakertownfarmersmkt.com or 215-536-4115.

February 11

Zion Hoagie Sale ($6 ea.) Order by today to pick-up Feb 15 (9am-6pm) at Zion Lutheran Fellowship Hall, 2966 N Old Bethlehem Pike, Zion Hill. Order at 215-536-7818

February 14 Valentine’s day

‘Link at Lunch-February 2023’ at The Novel Baker at The Square, 123 N Main St, Dublin. 12noon-1pm. Area’s premier lunch networking event w/fun & casual atmosphere. Sponsored by NJM Insurance, Univest & My Benefit Advisor. FMI: sue@centralbuckschamber.com or 215-348-3913.

February 15

Zion Hoagies or Chef Salads, $6/ea. at Zion Lutheran Fellowship Hall, 2966 N Old Bethlehem Pike, Zion Hill. FMI: 215-5367818 or zion.zionhillhoagies@gmail.com for order or pickup.

February 16

Virtual Author Talks on Zoom with bestselling writers. Today’s author is Grace M Cho at 1pm. Register: library.org/ buckslib/23501/register

February 18

Soup Day at Trumbauersville Fire Co. FMI: Marilyn 215-536-2518 or Jen 215-989-0909

February 21

Quakertown Republican Caucus will hold its screening & endorsement meeting 7pm in Community Room of Quakertown Fire Co #1, 505 W Broad St. Positions screened: 4 Borough Council, 2 School Directors for Area 3 (boroughs of Qtown & Richland). FMI: Judy Guise 215-536-5196, jmisguided@verizon.net

February 25

Annual Pancake Breakfast 8am-11am at Quakertown HS Cafeteria, Park Ave. $6/ person (unlimited pancakes). Tkts may be purchased at the door. Football apparel also available for purchase. Benefits Qtown High School football team.

Dance with DJ Gary Wiley, 7pm-10pm at Green Lane Fire Co, 214 Main St, Rte 63. $10 includes cash bar, snacks & door prizes. FMI: 215-453-9841.

February 28

Virtual Author Talks on Zoom with bestselling writers. Today’s author is Cassandra Clare at 8pm. Register: library.org/ buckslib/23502/register

March 1

Robert James Investments monthly Coffee Club at 9am. Topics include market update, current events, & local happenings. First Wednesday of each month, 9am. Call Victoria at 215-583-5013 for info & to register.

John Rivers VFW Post 11322 Thanks

Sponsors of Christmas Ornament Project

Mr. & Mrs. Paul Gerhart, Jr., Tom & Jennifer Brandis, Mr. & Mrs. Paul Gerhart, Sr., Keith Ervin, Don & Lorraine Anderson, Mr. & Mrs. Brian Fenstermacher, Colleen Wireman, Mr. Mrs. John Daley, Mr. & Mrs. Robert Ross, John Frazier, Royce Reka, Mr. Mrs. John Otte, Mr.& Mrs. Scott McElree, Mr. & Mrs. Jack Grove, Mike Orlic, Mr.& Mrs. John Ford, Mr. & Mrs. Leo Bernabei, Mr. & Mrs. Sean Trotter, Mr. Kelly Carver, Mr. John Goodman, Mr. Tom Trenwith, Mr. Conrad Reid, Mr. & Mrs.James Newcomer, Matt Donley, Aaron Powell, Reverend John Hansen, James Burns Children, Mr. & Mrs. Justin Ruth, Eileen McFadden, Peggy Polacheck, Gerald Kilhefner, Elena Snyder, Shawn Yatsko, Mr. & Mrs. Bob Christian, Scott Ambrose, Mr. Pete Mink, Andre Thrush, Mr. Mrs. Jerry Sisian, Diane Quinby, Mr.& Mrs. Joe Kelly, Julie Roll, Russ Davidson, Jeff Elliott, Brenda Weaver Businesses: Beer City, JT Bankers, Giant Food Stores, Weiss Food Markets, Dr. Werner, Donley’s Gun, The Farm Bakery, McDonald’s, Earl’s Pub & Grill, Trumbauersville Borough, Alcamo’s, Premier Signs & Graphics, Upper Bucks Foot & Ankle, Line-X Of Lehigh Valley, McLaughlin Physical Therapy, Raven’s Nest, Anvil Signs and Graphics, The Rockhill Filling Station, Ecco Domani, RHS Trucking, Always Beautiful Floral Design, QNB Bank, Lehigh Defense, Babushka’s, Upper Bucks Free Press, Frank’s Pizza, Lucky Strike Tattoo, LifeQuest Foundation, Two Rivers Brewing, Rita’s Water Ice, Faraco’s, Downtown Dunkin Donuts, Rep. Craig Staats, Modern Male, Coopersburg Diner, West End Pub, East End Pub, A&N Restaurant, Links Beverage, Advantage Auto Sales & Credit, Black’s Tree Service, The Inside Scoop, Roy Ann Diner

March 2

2023 Citizens Police Academy Class starting

March 2. FMI: please email Steven Stoneback at sstoneback@quakertown.org

March 3

Trumbauersville Hoagie Sale (order by March 3, pickup March 13) FMI: Marilyn 215-536-2518 or Jen 215-989-0909.

March 7

Perkasie Historical Society Speaker Series: “Mapping the One-Room Schoolhouses of Bucks County” w/Chase Palmer. Dinner Meeting at 6:30pm at St. Stephen’s UCC, 110 N 6th St, Perkasie. Cost/$12. Reserve by Thurs. before meeting, call Pat 215-257-9624. Check for updates: perkasiehistory.org/

March 11

90’s Dance Party (doors open 6pm) at Benner Hall, Richlandtown. Tickets: $30/adv, $40/ door if available. Tkts: prideofquakertown.org

March 19

“The British Battle That Backfired” A Free program by Robert E. Beck about The Battle of Bennington in the American Revolution, 2pm at Richland Historical Society, 130 Richlandtown Pike, Quakertown. (Free tours of One Room Schoolhouse & Museum begin 12 noon) FMI: 215-538-8671

March 25

Grace Christian School’s 38th Annual Spring Auction 9am-2pm, Penn Valley Church, 320 N Third St, Telford. Breakfast food. Live auction begins 10am. gift certificates, crafts, quilts, gift baskets, more. 11am is “Doggy Days Demos” kids show. Lunch available, bake sale. Much

‘Bingo After Dark’ (open 4:30pm, games 6pm) at Sellersville Fire Dept, 2 N Main St. Tkts: $40/adv, $45/door if available. Must be 21 yrs old. BYOB, kitchen will be open. Tkts/ FMI: sellersvillefd.com

March 26

Designer Bag Bingo (doors open 12noon, games 1pm) at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown. Tkts: $25 in advance. Email Lori at QCHSalumniboard@gmail.com Daubers for sale or use your own.

March 31

Trumbauersville Hoagie Sale (order by March 31, pickup April 17) FMI: Marilyn 215-536-2518 or Jen 215-989-0909.

April 1 10th Annual Tails & Ties Gala 5pm-10pm at Centennial Event Ctr at Homewood Suites, 3350 Center Valley Pkwy, Center Valley. Live music, dinner & drinks (must be 21 yrs old). Live auction, raffles, more. FMI: Jackie@lastchanceranch.org

April 4

Perkasie Historical Soc. Speaker Series: “Perkasie Fire Company #1, April 1st, 1926: Not an April Fool’s Joke” w/Jeff schoeller. Dinner Meeting at 6:30pm at St. Stephen’s UCC, 110 N 6th St, Perkasie. Cost/$12. Reserve by Thurs. before meeting, call Pat 215-257-9624. Check website for updates:

If I Were a Cat

We recently acquired a 6 year old Maine Coon cat, and a red barn kitten of undetermined background. After watching them this morning, I wished I could be so happy hitting a fallen flower leaf around the kitchen floor.

It was cute, as sometimes they can be, although mostly they just annoy me and Fritz our blind dog who doesn’t understand what this thing is that occasionally brushes up against him, nor does he want to.

That got me thinking…if I was a cat, what would I do, or not do. It’s in no particular order.

I would not jump on every piece of furniture that has a Christmas decoration in an attempt to break as many as I can so that I could bat the little pieces around the floor when I don’t have a flower leaf.

I would probably not sleep on top of the dvr box because it is warm, but if I was cold and did so, I would do my best to not drool onto the very expensive radio next to it.

I would come when my mom and dad call because they feed me, give me shelter, and provide a usually clean place to poop. (I would also, if I could read, look up the record for the most cat poop ever cleaned out of a litter box, by weight. I would win, paws down.)

I would know the difference between daytime and nighttime and which is the right time for sleep time. If I did have insomnia, I would not jump in a never ending circle from bed to end

table to dresser to bed to hamper to scurrying around the floor like a mad man, or mad cat, thereby waking up the sleeping humans.

I would definitely scratch myself wherever I could but nothing else in the house.

I could, and would, lick myself.

I would leave the poor blind dog alone. He doesn’t want anything to do with me and just wants to be content and happy as he was before I was transported here in some uncomfortable plastic cage. (Instead of having to be caught with a fishing net, I would willingly be put in that hard, cold box to go to a building where a person in a white lab coat inserts a long glass thing into my most private place, pulls it out, looks at it, and then puts it back in her pocket. So gross.)

As an aside…I go for yearly prostate exams, so I feel the cat’s pain. At least he’s not asked to bend over and put his elbows on the table in what can only be described as the most emasculating position ever invented by doctors, stripping away every shred of manliness any man over fifty ever had. (No wonder guys in their forties have a mid-life crisis…they know what’s coming.)

But most importantly, whenever my mom sat down, I would climb up and sleep on her lap because she loves me.

Dad can scratch himself.

JoHn SCHaninger iS a lifelong reSident of PennSylvania and HaS lived in uPPer blaCK eddy for over 13 yearS reaCH Him at m12String@aol Com

Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.

Valentine’s Day & Your Dog

Why

walls

need to go to the bathroom. It’s because they love

because they

My youngest pup, Kai, has

entire

when I let her out of her crate. She sings like a baby Chewbacca - "awh-ewh-woo–woo"! She uses her entire butt to wag her tail that’s banging off everything. You’d think she just won the lottery. It really feels like she unconditionally loves me. Hell, my husband barely acknowledges my return home unless I have groceries. Dogs show us they love us all the time. They have an entire house to choose a resting place but they choose to sleep right by our feet. Why is it a parade every time we go to the bathroom? We really don’t need the company but our dogs want to be with us. They don’t care if we didn’t brush our teeth or combed our hair.

According to Business Insider, U.S. pet owners spend roughly $681 million dollars on their pets for Valentine’s Day; that’s a lot of kibble! We go to big specialty stores and buy everything from heart-shaped cookies to doggy perfume. I’m sorry, but the quality and ingredients of these treats are questionable besides being overpriced. The last thing my dog wants is to smell like

perfume. This Valentine’s Day why not look for something a little different your dog. Something he will love and won’t break the bank? How about freeze-dried banana chips. Canned beef tripe if you can’t find fresh (smells horrible but your dog will love it). Try some homemade Tuna Fudge Dog Treats, your dog will love you for it!

Tuna Fudge Recipe:

• 2 -6 oz. cans of tuna do not drain (you can substitute canned salmon)

• 1 ½ cup whole wheat flour

• 1 tsp. garlic powder

• 2 eggs lightly beaten

• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

• Mix all ingredients together using a mixer or food processor

• Spread onto a greased 9”x 9” pan. Bake in a 350°oven for 20 minutes

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or cut into little squares and freeze for tasty little training treats

When Kai gazes into my eyes to see if I see her, and I do, I can’t do it without smiling. Face it we love them just as much as they love us, Bone appetite!

Submitted by marion C. o’neil CPdt-Ka, Ctdi, owner and inStruCtor for molaSSeS CreeK dog training, llC, QuaKertown and trainer rainer for runaway farm Pet HoSPital, PennSburg SHe Can be reaCHed at molaSSeSCreeK@verizon net

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

- Martin Luther King, Jr.

Last Chance Ranch

Consider adopting a furever friend today! Adoption fees range from a donation of your choice to $450 and include spay/neuter, 4dx tests, up to date vaccinations and preventatives. Applications are available at www.lastchanceranch.org and all adoptions are by appointment with an approved application. Occasional adoption events are held for walk-in adoptions. You can stay in the know by following us on Facebook at www.fb.com/LCRAnimalRescue or give us a call at (215) 538-2510.

A Recap of the 2022 Real Estate Market

2022 was a turbulent year for the US housing market, as inflation, rising interest rates, and elevated sales prices combined to cause a slowdown nationwide. Affordability challenges continue to limit market activity, with pending home sales and existing-home sales down month-over-month and falling 37.8% and 35.4% year-over-year, respectively, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Higher mortgage rates are also impacting prospective sellers, many of whom have locked in historically low rates and have chosen to wait until market conditions improve before selling their home. New Listings decreased 18.6 percent to 364. Pending Sales were down 23.6 percent to 375. Inventory levels grew 6.4 percent to 602 units. Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased 3.6 percent to $290,000. Days on Market was up 31.6 percent to 25 days.

Buyers felt empowered as Months Supply of Inventory was up 25.0 percent to 1.0 months. Economists predict sales will continue to slow and housing prices will soften in many markets over the next 12 months, with larger price declines projected in more expensive areas. However, national inventory shortages will likely keep prices from dropping too much, as buyer demand continues to outpace supply, which remains limited at 3.3 months, according to NAR. Even if prices fall, many prospective buyers will find it difficult to afford a home in 2023, as higher rates have diminished purchasing power, adding hundreds of dollars to monthly mortgage payments. A key point to consider is talk with your mortgage professional and your real estate professional to strategize a plan to move forward today!

Sue deily HaS been a realtor for 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 or 215-872-9865.

$47,483 Raised for this Season's ‘Quakertown Cares’ Campaign

BY JANE THOMPSON-SMITH

The Student Congress of Quakertown Senior High School contributed $1,600 from Homecoming ticket sales to aid school families, and area veterans and seniors in need. Thank you to these thoughtful students and their faculty mentors!

Additional giving through January 13 included a $1,000 donation from long time ‘Cares’ supporter, Classic Staffing Services of Quakertown! An anonymous Sellersville resident added $400!

The following also contributed to the cause. Giving $250: Beth and Craig Arnold,

Quakertown United Methodist Church

Giving $195: Scott and Sue Godshalk, Regency Manor neighbors

$100: Constance Brown, Hayley Stauffer, Nancy and Fred Tirjan, Lillian Brader, Anonymous Perkasie resident

$50 gift card: Anonymous Milford Township resident

“Quakertown Cares” is a holiday campaign, but distributes aid and accepts contributions year-round. Contributions are tax-deductible, as ‘Cares’ is a 501(c)(3) charity. Now in its 28th year, the campaign has no administrative expenses; every contribution dollar goes to our neighbors in need!

Jacob F. betz, 78, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania passed away January 19, 2023 peacefully at home with family by his side.

Born in Philadelphia on March 24, 1944, he is the son of Grace M. Betz.

Jake married his wife Sutera on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1970, in Bridgeport, Pennsylvania.They would have celebrated their 53rd anniversary this month.

In addition to his wife, Jake is survived by son Christopher J., his wife Lisa, and granddaughters Abigail and Lauren of Trumbauersville; daughter Carolynn of Quakertown; and son Adam. He is also survived by his brother James J. Flannery III and his wife Donna of Palm Coast, Florida; and niece and nephew James and Jennifer.

Jake attended Roman Catholic High School of Philadelphia, graduating in 1961. He went on to study at the Philadelphia College of Science and Textiles, now Jefferson University, before embarking on his career in science and technology at companies such as Rohm & Haas, General Electric’s Missile & Space division, and ultimately various divisions of Ametek from which he retired after 42 years in 2011. He continued to consult with companies in the MEMS (Microelectronic Measurement Systems) field right up to the time of his passing. He also held a number of patents in the field of photovoltaics.

Jake was a lifelong learner right up the end, always reading and studying and practicing what he learned. He was a self-taught computer programmer whose software was sold worldwide. He innovated manufacturing processes for his employers and friends with local businesses and was always willing to use his knowledge and problem-solving skills to help anyone who needed him.

Jake was an extremely devoted husband and father. If there was an opportunity to be involved in his family’s activities, he was there through sports, clubs, scouts, hobbies, church, Christopher’s business, and much more. Never did he ever neglect to support his family in every way.

Friends and family are invited to honor Jake on February 18 at First United Church of Christ at 4th and Park Avenue in Quakertown. A calling hour will be held at 10 AM and a celebration of life service at 11 AM. Memorial contributions in honor of Jake can be made to the Roman Catholic High School Alumni Association, Class of 1961, 301 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107.

William “bill” anderson, 79, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on January 11, 2023, in his home.

Born in Sellersville, PA he was the son of the late Richard Anderson and Ruth (Strouse) Anderson.

Bill graduated from Pennridge High School in 1961 and went on to continue his education at Spring Garden Institute of Tech. He proudly served in the United States Army. When he was younger, Bill enjoyed hunting, in his later years, Bill spent a lot of his time fishing. Bill was a member of the United Steelworker’s Union and worked as a maintenance mechanic for Sun Oil. During his spare time, you would find William watching Wheel of Fortune, the History Channel and sports games, such as the Eagles and Phillies. He was also an avid watcher of the Allentown and Philadelphia daily news.

He was the spouse of Judy (Larsen) Anderson, together they shared 44 years of marriage.

He will be dearly missed by his children, James R. Anderson and William T. Anderson (Sirlene); his stepchild, Janet Fiugalski (Tim); his 5 grandchildren, Breanna, Nathan, BillBill, Hannah, and Leland; and 3 great-grandchildren, Sofia, Aiden, and Aliya.

Bill is predeceased by his stepchild, Russell Fiugalski. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Last Chance Ranch.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

linda l. becker, 62, of Richlandtown, passed away on January 28th, 2023, in her home.

Born in Brownsville, Linda is the daughter of Leeland McNutt and the late Donna McNutt (Holstein).

Linda attended Quakertown Senior High School and then went on to complete cosmetology school.

Linda loved being a hairdresser and she loved her clients. In her free time, she enjoyed gardening.

Linda will be dearly missed by her children, Ricky Becker (Becky), Kamryn Lousnberry (Dan), and Elivia Drake; her grandchildren,

Alaina and Bryce; her father, Leeland McNutt, and her sisters; Elaine Hogan (Mike), Karen McNutt, and Cindy Taylor; and her nieces and nephews, Sean Wampole (Vanessa), Rachelle Wampole, and Samantha Long (Brent).

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

Jackson “Jack” J. blasé, 82, of Quakertown died January 12, 2023 in his home.

He was the husband of Gail W. (Wisneski) Blasé.

Born in Camden, NJ he was the son of the late Joseph & Ellen (Watson) Blasé. He was an owner/operator for a Home Improvement Company. Prior to that he was a salesman for various products. He enjoyed flea markets and was a craftsman. In addition to his wife he is survived by a son Zane D. Blasé, and a daughter Hillary Morgan Blasé; two sisters Connie & Mary Lee; one grandchild Margaret “Maggie” Kaitlyn-Blasé-Parliman. He was predeceased by a son Aaron and a daughter Katelyn Ashley; a brother Joe and a sister Jill. Services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown.

robert “bob” John buttery, 69, passed away on January 10th, 2023, in his home.

Born in Allentown, he was the son of the late John Buttery and Louise (Turner) Buttery.

Bob graduated from Southern Lehigh High School in 1971. He then went on to continue his education at Lehigh Carbon Community College where he received his associate’s degree.

Bob’s favorite thing to do was play disc golf.

He will be dearly missed by his sister, Lori Harbison (Ed); his aunt, Susan Moyer; his cousins, Jennifer Moyer and Natalie Altemose; and his nephew, Kevin Harbison (Brittany).

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bob’s name to the Lehigh Valley Humane Society.

stephen r. cameron, 67, of Quakertown died January 19, 2023.

He was the husband of Charle (Krieg) Cameron for 23 years.

Born in Philadelphia he was the son of the late Robert & Yvonne (Hershey) Cameron.

He was a heavy equipment operator for SEPTA before retiring.

He was a railroad enthusiast. He enjoyed fishing and was a kind and caring person having the biggest heart, he was a very giving person who enjoyed making everyone happy.

In addition to his wife he is survived by his children James & Steve, and his step-children Chris & Sean. Six grandchildren & seventeen great grandchildren.

Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the family in care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

myrtle colon, age 81, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, passed away on December 26, 2022 at Grand View Hospital in Sellersville, Pennsylvania.

She was the spouse of Angel Colon, who passed 17 years ago on March 5, 2005, and with whom she ultimately shared 43 years of marriage.

Born in Quakertown, PA she was a daughter of William Roberts and Myrtle Corum Roberts of Quakertown, Pennsylvania.

She was a member of 2nd Baptist Church of Doylestown, Pennsylvania for her entire adult life, and was a loyal, tireless worker that applied her skills as an Assembler for Ametek Incorporated - U.S. Gauge Division in Sellersville, Pennsylvania until her retirement on August 1, 2001.

Most importantly, Myrtle, better known as Aunt Toot or Tootie, was a passionate, dedicated, and loving mother of four, who committed her life to doing whatever was necessary to see to it that they had all that she could give them of her time, her heart, and her support. She wore her emotions on her sleeve (as they say), which means you never had to wonder where you stood with her. She was not shy about telling you. She really enjoyed a good crime-drama on network TV, she loved warm blankets, football was her favorite sport (obviously), and she was a fantastic cook that made the best macaroni salad in the history of mankind. She is survived by Brenda Riddick (Daughter), Donna Riddick (Daughter), Robert Riddick

(Son), Louis Riddick (Son), Debra Riddick (daughter in-law), Ian Riddick (Grandson), Andre Riddick (Grandson), Travis Riddick (Grandson), Lauren Riddick (Granddaughter), Lindsay Riddick (Granddaughter), Gabrielle Riddick (Granddaughter), Leanne Riddick (Granddaughter), Darren Riddick (Grandson), Patricia Boyd (Sister), Loretta Lewis (Sister), Anna Jones (Sister).

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

elizabeth ann "betty" curry, 84, of Quakertown passed away at her home on January 8, 2023.

She was born in Philadelphia on September 23, 1938 to the late Peter and Rose (Brady) Mullin.

She was the loving wife of Leonard Nytz for 22 years until his passing in 1982, and to Robert Curry for 2 years until his passing in 1992.

Betty was a loving mother and grandmother, an avid reader, and nature lover. As a young girl, she found enjoyment in horses where she would assist in their upkeep in exchange for riding time. She also loved listening to music and attending live concerts. Some of her favorite artists were John Denver and Johnny Mathis, who she excitedly met in person at a local concert hall. She also had the thrill of a lifetime when she was called up on stage after she baked a cake for Peter Wolf, lead singer of the J. Geils Band, and participated with the entire audience in a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday. A major event for such a shy young woman.

She traveled the world as a Navy wife for many years while raising her young children before settling down in Florida to run a successful and popular fishing camp with her family on Lake Lochloosa. She eventually returned to Pennsylvania and went back to school to obtain her GED at the age of 42 after her children were grown. She went on to have a very fulfilling career as a book keeper and office manager for Lower Southampton Township for nearly 20 years until her retirement. Her remaining years were filled with joy attending her grandchildren's sporting events, watching her favorite Philadelphia Phillies on television, collecting anything related to lighthouses, and catching up with her extended family and friends.

Betty is survived by her children Christina (Edward) DePamphilis, Lawrence (Renae) Nytz, John (Marcella) Nytz, and Michael (Teri) Nytz; grandchildren Jack, Keegan, Ryan, Matthew, John, and Marcella; brothers Thomas and Joseph Mullin; and many other loving family and friends.

She is predeceased by her parents; both husbands; grandson Christian Lawrence Nytz; and siblings Edward, Catherine, Peter, Loretta, and Frank. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

louis GeorGe decker, 87, of Hilltown, PA, formerly of Little Meadows, PA., Upper Darby, PA and Bellport, NY., died January 20, 2023.

Preceded in death by his late wife, Elizabeth Macaulay Decker, Lou was born in Brookhaven, NY, and graduated from Bellport High School in 1954.

He served in the Army from 1957-60 enjoying his time in Europe working on microwave radio communication towers in Germany and France, including the Eiffel Tower. He studied at Suffolk Community College, NY. with an engineering emphasis.

Lou grew up in Upper Darby, PA, riding his bike and the train into Philadelphia exploring museums. With his homebase always being Brookhaven, Long Island NY, Lou grew up driving the Model T and Packard he tinkered and rebuilt well before any driver's license would be issued, along with working and playing in Tooker's Boat yard.

His employment history includes Brookhaven National Laboratory, NY as a senior technical specialist in the chemistry department working with Isotope separators and mass spectrometer for Ionic collision processes, IBM as a senior automated equipment specialist, Lockheed Martin, and eventually Loral Space & Communications. Over the years Lou was a member of the Brookhaven, Bellport, and Little Meadows Volunteer Fire Depts. Member of the BBBB&BS racing club, president of the Afghan hound assoc., vice president of the Brookhaven Kennel Club, member of Tioga County Kennel Club in Owego N.Y., and active member in the Bucks County Kennel Club and Supervisor of Apolacon Township, PA. Lou was a Free Mason, member of Shiloh-MacCalla Lodge No 558 F. & A.M. This year would have been celebrating

his 60th year. Lou started as a young man in Patchogue, NY. He also thoroughly enjoyed being a member of the American Legion, and Keelersville Club in his later years. Lou's passions were clamming, showing, breeding, and handling their Afghan Hounds, racing sailboats and iceboats, spending time at old inlet and being a Carmen River Rat. Lou was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather with the greatest joy in life being when his entire family and good friends were together, especially in Canada fishing and water skiing. Reunions with his beloved Pongonis and Vasell nieces and nephews were also a favorite. Lou was preceded in death by his two sisters Shirley Decker Vasell and Claire Decker Pongonis. Lou is survived by son Louis G. Decker, Jr, wife Ann Tice Decker, their children Elizabeth Decker Keller and Christopher Decker; daughter Elizabeth Decker-Marshall, husband Troy Q. Marshall, their children Chase Marshall and Addison Marshall.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

bonnie l deFrancesco, 76, of Quakertown passed away on December 31, 2022.

She was born in Quakertown on May 10, 1946 to the late Helen Bright.

She was the loving wife of David DeFrancesco for 51 years.

Bonnie worked as a beautician, medical secretary, and then a "cuddler" for newborn babies at Grand View Hospital.

She loved the beach, reading, and sitting in the sunshine.

Bonnie is survived by her husband; children Lisa DeFrancesco and Cody DeFrancesco; grandchildren Lovenya DeFrancesco and Maxton Mizerny; and many other loving family and friends.

She is predeceased by her parents; daughter Toni DeFrancesco; and granddaughter Kennedy DeFrancesco.

Interment will be privately held. All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215536-3343)

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Lung Association. edWard r. depamphilis, 94, of Quakertown passed away on January 18, 2023. He was born in Philadelphia on September 28, 1928 to the late Edward and Annabelle (Penater) DePamphilis.

He was the loving husband of Catherine (Sauermelch) DePamphilis for 68 years until her passing in 2020.

After enlisting in the Army in 1948, Ed proudly served as a Sergeant and a Combat Engineer. He spent two years in Guam before being called back to serve in the Korean War. After the war, he returned to the Philadelphia area to marry his beloved Catherine in 1952 and was Honorably discharged in 1953. He worked as a machinist at SKF Industries in Philadelphia and Compressor Products in Newtown as a shop foreman, while raising five children in Northeast Philadelphia and Bucks County, PA. In their later years, Ed and Catherine retired to Delaware before moving back to the Quakertown area to be closer to family. Ed was an avid Eagles fan, and a devout Catholic.

Edward is survived by his children Karen Burg, Janet Hober, JoAnne (David) Johnson, Edward Jr. (Christina) DePamphilis, and Richard (Lisa) DePamphilis; grandchildren Michael, Kirsten, Colleen, Janine, Nicole, Billy, LeighAnn, Larissa, and Jack; great grandchildren Tyler, Ashley, Kyle, Jaelyn, Jason, Ayden, Izaak, Eric, and Lexi; and many other loving family and friends.

He is predeceased by his parents; wife; and brother Robert DePamphilis.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

mary Veronica FinGer of Telford, Pennsylvania, was born on January 26, 1920, and was awarded her second pair of Angel Wings on January 1, 2023, at Lutheran Community At Telford.

Mary was the daughter of Jacob Sikacz and Julia Wyhinnyj Sikacz of 132 W. Wishart Street, Philadelphia, PA.

Mary shared 29 years of marriage with Henry A. Finger, before his death in 1971. Mary's sister Anna Sikacz Zolomij, left our family in 2015.

Mary graduated from Kensington High School in Philadelphia in 1937 and worked for the Yellow Cab Company in Philadelphia. Mary and Henry married on May 16, 1942. She became a stay-at-home Mom to raise six children. Later Mary worked as a Cashier at Shanken's Shop 'N Bag in Horsham, an Accounts Payable Clerk for the Wissahickon

~Obituaries~

School Distinct, and a Mail Clerk in the AARP Department at Prudential.

Mary moved to Lutheran Community at Telford in 2007 and continued her activities and started knitting and crocheting Baby hats and blankets, which number into the hundreds!

Mary is survived by Kenneth Finger and his wife Sandra, Linda Finger Scott, Wayne Finger and his wife Roslyn, Donna Finger Freeman and her husband Charles, Marianne Finger Brady and her husband Robert, and Henry Finger and his wife Pamela, Fifteen Grand Children, Twenty-five Great-Grand Children and Seven Great-Great-Grand Children.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary's name to The Lutheran Community at Telford Benevolent Fund, 12 Lutheran Home Drive, Telford, PA 18969.

All Arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral and Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

tyrel raheem hammersly, age 28, of Riverview, Florida, passed away on January 13, 2023, in Riverview, FL.

Born in Allentown, PA he was the son of the late Stephen Hammersly and Tamara Sherman Hammersly.

He was the delivery driver for Marcos Pizza. During his spare time, he enjoyed spending time with his family and making music. He loved making music and as an artist he would put all his emotions into his work.

Tyrel will be remembered for the love he had for his family and the willingness he had to help anyone he could. He might have been a private person, but he had the biggest heart.

In addition to his mother, Tyrel will be missed by his two children, Tyzaire R Hammersly, and Aunaliyse A Hammersly; his siblings Marquesha Hammersly, Stephen Hammersly Jr, Shirel Figueroa, Steven Hammersly, Majesty Williams, and Adriana Tristan; and his Aunt Jennifer Sherman. Tyrel is also survived by his nine nephews and one niece Zy'Niyah, with whom he had shared a special bond. He will be missed by many aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, and friends that he loved very much.

Tyrel was welcomed into heaven by his dad, and nephew Kameron.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

marGaret “peGGy” Jameson, 84, passed away on January 8th, 2023, in her home.

Born in Philadelphia, she is the daughter of the late Gus Delucas and Mary (Dunphy) Delucas.

Peggy attended the Little Flower Catholic High School in Philadelphia.

Peggy was a caretaker, and as an active Christian, she loved the Lord.

Peggy will be missed by her sons Frederick and William Hirth, and her grandchildren, TJ Rogers, Amy Rogers, and Christina Schumacher.

Family and friends are welcome to join Peggy's family for a life celebration on February 4th, 2023, from 2:00PM ~ 4:00PM at Hopewell Christian Fellowship, located at 601 Hunsicker Road, Telford, PA, 18969.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral and Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, Pa, 18951. (215-536-3343)

JoFFre “Jay” Jaramillo, Jr., 44, of Quakertown died January 26, 2023. He was the husband of Heather L. (Foster) Jaramillo. Born in Bronx, NY he was the son of Joffre, Sr. & Claritza (Onofre) Jaramillo. He was a truck driver for Traffic Engineering Service in Allentown. He was a member and the business Manager and Treasurer for the Ruff Ryders-Allentown Chapter. He enjoyed motorcycles, vacations, and family. In addition to his wife and parents he is survived by four sons Antonio, Marcus, Evan and Justin,; two daughters Hailey, and Nina; three brothers Richard, Vicente and Christopher; three grandchildren. He is also survived by his lifelong friends Corey and Nolan.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www. crstrunk.com) In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to his Children’s Education Fund in care of Heather Jaramillo.

hoWard l. kressler Jr., 81, of Quakertown passed away at his home on January 30, 2023.

He was born in Applebachsville, PA on February 15, 1941 to the late Howard Sr. and Fern (Gutshall) Kressler.

He was the husband of Sandra Lee Kressler for over 40 years until her passing in 2021. Howard was an artist. He loved painting and working with his hands. He was an avid animal and nature lover.

Howard is survived by his sons Victor (Shawn) Kressler and Gregory (Amy) Kressler; grandchildren Victoria, Cheyenne, Brent, and Hunter; 3 great grandchildren; siblings Barbara, Herbert, and Roger; and many other loving family and friends.

He is predeceased by his parents, wife, and sister Dawn "Dolly".

Services will be privately held. All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Last Chance Ranch.

norma Jean (larue) lillie, 90, went home to heaven Dec. 26, 2022, just a half hour past Christmas Day, with several of her daughters by her side.

In the week leading up to Christmas, they made sure she got a huge dose of beautiful Christmas music, and anticipated her joy at not just hearing the heavenly choir sing but joining that choir herself!

Norma Jean LaRue was born Feb. 19, 1932 in Harrod, Ohio, youngest child of Guy and Ethel (Heath) LaRue, and grew up on the family farm, attending the Harrod CongregationalChristian Church with her parents.

She was a proud graduate of Harrod High School in 1950. After working for a year, she enrolled at Ohio Northern University. As a freshman and member of the Chorus Choir, she caught the eye of senior, Roger Lillie, who remarked to his frat brothers who had asked about the girls in the chorus, “There’s a pretty good-looking redhead.” A few weeks later they worked the same shift at the Choral Cabaret, and that cinched it. They were married on Feb. 22, 1953. Then they parted for a time; Roger went back to his Army training and Norma continued at ONU, obtaining her B.S. in Music Education in 1955.

Norma began her vocal music teaching career in the same school district she had attended, Auglaize Local School System, where she taught until they started their family. In 1959, she and Roger and their family of four young children, ages 0-3, moved to Ashtabula, Ohio.

In 1961, they moved to the West 5th Street house where she spent the next 53 years. Two more children were added to the family. She resumed teaching music once the youngest was in grade school. She was music teacher at Washington Elementary, Thomas Jefferson and several other area elementary schools starting in 1969. She was the choral director at Harbor High School 1975-1979.

After she ended her school teaching career in 1983, she spent many years giving piano and voice lessons. Two of her granddaughters benefitted from their grandma’s patient teaching: Grace took to playing piano, while Kelsey preferred singing! Norma was actively involved in the ministries and programs of Lake Avenue (Harbor) United Methodist Church. She created beautiful flower arrangements, served as choir director and pianist, and was very active with the United Methodist Women, serving as president and program coordinator for many, many years.

When the church closed in 2008, Roger and Norma became members of First United Methodist Church. She was a member of the Delphian Readers, sang in the Ashtabula Singers Guild under the direction of George Stenroos, and was a charter member of the Ashtabula County Choral Music Society. She used her children (who were sometimes willing participants) whenever she could, having them sing or play their instruments for various church and school programs. She often visited shut-ins and nursing home residents, setting a wonderful example of service for her children. Norma was also a dedicated election poll worker for many years and took great pride in doing her civic duty. Known by many as “The Cookie Lady,” she was a master artist and will be most fondly remembered for her exquisitely decorated cut-out cookies.

Kevin’s daughters, Grace and Kelsey, carry in their hearts the fun memories of baking and frosting cookies with Grandma. She was also known for her delicious apple pies (homemade crust and crumb topping), and with the addition of two sons-in-law to the family (Phil and Rod), she made sure to make a pecan pie whenever they visited, which they happily consumed.

In later years, she enjoyed attending Harrod’s all-class alumni banquets as both former student and teacher. She enjoyed hiking, bird-watching, going to the Covered Bridge Festivals with Roger, as well as music and singing. Her children and grandchildren continue to enjoy many of these activities. She encouraged her family in all their artistic expressions by always keeping a well-stocked drawer of crayons and markers, coloring books and paper, paints and stickers.

Life changed dramatically for Norma in 2001, when Roger suffered a stroke. She went from passenger to driver, learning whatever she needed to take wonderful care of him until

his death in 2010.

In 2014, daughters Laura and Lynne and son-in-law Rod moved Norma to their shared home in Quakertown, PA, and they feel very blessed to have had her with them for the last eight years.

The family had the pleasure of celebrating her 90th birthday there this past February.

Survivors include her six children, Bruce Lillie, Bowling Green, Ohio; Kevin (Gayle) Lillie, Geneva, Ohio; Laura Lillie, Quakertown, Pa.; Gail (Phil) Wenger, Washington DC; Lynne (Rod) Rush, Quakertown, Pa., and Ann (Doug) Briggs, Nashport, Ohio; former daughter-in-law, Karen Gilliland; nine grandchildren, Lorielle (Blayne) Bible, Brianna Lillie, Kathryn (Matt Winnie), Alex, Josh, Grace (Andrew Birkhoff) and Kelsey Lillie, Ben and Emily Rush; and six great-grandchildren, Emma, Melvin, Margaret, Arlieta and Leo Bible, and William Lillie. Also surviving are sisters-in-law Clara Moisio, Jefferson, Ohio, and Kay Lillie, Ashtabula, Ohio, and many nieces and nephews.

Norma was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Roger Lillie; siblings Weldon (Mary) LaRue, Preston (Elsie) LaRue, Hope Kaliher, Opal (George) Harvey, and her oldest sister Marjorie who died before she was born.

Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com)

clair e lonG, 94 of Quakertown died Sunday January 8, 2023, in Belle Terrace Nursing and Rehab Center.

He was the husband of the late Carolyn (Rupell) Long.

Born in Milford Square, Bucks County he was the son of the late Henry T. and Eva Mabel (Mindler) Long.

He was a meat packer for C. D. Moyer before retiring. Prior to that he worked for A & B Meat Company. After retirement he worked part time as a funeral attendant at the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc.

He was a member of Trinity Great Swamp United Church of Christ in Spinnerstown.

Clair is survived by two daughters Susan Roeder (Barry) and Carol Ann Geiger (Thomas), three grandchildren Brian Roeder (Trina), Matthew Geiger (Stephanie) and Kara Lett (Erik), a granddaughter in law Gloria Roeder, seven great grandchildren Lacey, Brent, Myles, Emily, Garrett, Luke, and Jenna.

He was predeceased by an infant son in 1953, a grandson Michael and his sister and

brothers Marian, Stanley, Lloyd, and Richard. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com)

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Trinity Great Swamp UCC, 9150 Spinnerstown Rd. P.O. Box 494 Spinnerstown PA 18968.

patricia (Gerhart) lorenz, 80, passed away December 29th, 2022, in her home.

Born in Allentown, Patricia was the daughter of the late Merritt and Madelyn (Zellner) Gerhart.

She is predeceased by her husband of 62 years Fredrick W. Lorenz.

Patricia loved spending her time with her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren gave her the greatest joy, being so proud of them all. She loved her old stone farmhouse and could tell you the whole history of it. She had gardens, chickens, goats but she was happy to sit in her chair on the porch and look out her over her yard and koi pond and feed the hummingbirds.

She worked for Delta Information Products in Horsham for over 30 years, only retiring in 2020.

Over the past 50 years she was involved with her toy poodles and belonged to the William Penn Poodle Club. She had many champion show dogs to her name.

Patricia will be dearly missed by her children, Kim Layre (The Late Robert Layre), Keith Lorenz (Jami), and Kristen Kehs (William); her grandchildren, Katherine (Steve), Kelly, Michael (Andrea), Phillip, Sebastian River, Matthew (DayAnna), Amanda (Joshua), Tyler (Hannah), Nathaniel (Marissa), Andrew, and Nicholas; her great-grandchildren, Cali Rae, Gunner, Michael, Cameron, Kierra, Noah, Lukas, Tessa, Taylor, Tori, and Loni; and her siblings Linda Reisinger, Nancy Gerhart, Diane Wideman, and predeceased by her brother Jeffery Gerhart.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

Joanne V. mccleery, 82, of Quakertown formerly of Telford and Sellersville died January 26, 2023 in Quakertown Center.

Born in Philadelphia, PA she was the daughter of the late Joseph J. & Verna A. (Baltz) Barz.

MCCLEERY, continued from page 7

She was last employed as a receptionist for Mail Advertising in Colmar. Prior to that she worked for North American Drager in Telford.

She is survived by two sons Richard S. and Joseph J. and six grandchildren.

She was predeceased by a son Scott B. Services were held on Thursday, February 2, 2023 at 7:00 P.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

mary ellen musselman, of Cokesbury Village, Hockessin, DE passed away January 7, 2023 in Christiana Hospital, Newark, DE.

Richard C Musselman, her husband for 59 years, passed away Aug 2011.

Born in Richland Township near Quakertown, PA in 1933, she was the daughter of the late Harold A. and Mae (Heller) Koder.

She graduated from Quakertown Community High School in 1950, and from the Univ of Delaware in 1975 with a degree in Office Administration. She retired from DuPont Co in 1992.

She enjoyed spending time with family and her home, and years of gardening, camping, traveling, and photography.

Survivors: Two sons, Wayne R Musselman, wife Catherine of Bellingham WA; son Daniel S Musselman, wife Angela of Hockessin DE; four grandchildren, Katelyn, Nicole, Ian, Patrick, three great-grandchildren; Annette, Chase, Asher; brother Robert Koder of Kutztown PA.

She was predeceased by brothers Harold W Koder and Edwin Koder of Quakertown.

Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com)

aileen huttie ney, 70, of Quakertown, PA passed away January 10th, 2023 at St. Luke’s Hospice Bethlehem with her loving husband and children by her side.

Aileen will forever be remembered as a special wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and sister.

She was the wife of James R Ney to whom she was married for 46 years.

Born in Bethlehem, PA to the late Joseph J and Irene Medve Huttie, Aileen graduated from Liberty High School in 1970 and then went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree at Moravian College in 1974.

Before retiring in 2015, she was employed at Kid's Peace and the Upper Bucks Intermediate Unit.

She is survived by her sons Travis and his wife Heather of Center Valley, PA and Taylor of Fountain Hill, PA; grandchildren, (who lovingly knew her as Gee) Jayden, Christian and Madalynn, brother Joseph and his wife Lynette of Carey, NC, and sister Brenda of St. Paul, Minnesota and nieces and nephews Ashley, Kelly, Ryan, Tucker and Zachary.

Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com)

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Last Chance Ranch 9 Beck Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951.

kathleen patrick was born to William Ralph Eichlin and Marjorie (Carney) Eichlin on July 25, 1948.

She graduated from Allentown Central Catholic High School in 1966. Blessed with musical talent, she graduated from College Misericordia in Dallas, PA with a Bachelor of Music Education in 1970.

Kathy is survived by her wonderful husband James of 52 years; her children Jason, Jonathan, and Jeremy; her daughters-in-law Erin and Jessica; the absolute loves of her life, her grandchildren Logan, Caelie and Cerys; her extended family and many friends.

Above all, Kathy loved her family, life, people, and music. She was touched by many as well as touched those she knew. She especially loved working with children and spent most of her life doing this as a music teacher.

A double lung transplant survivor of 10 years, Kathy spent much of her time helping other lung transplant patients.

She will be missed by many, but her song will live on. A second celebration of life will be held in Gainesville, FL at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Kathleen Patrick Endowed Fund for Lung Transplant Patient Care at www.t.ly/3Ncq.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

Joseph l. “poppy” perri, sr., 83 of Coopersburg formerly of Brodheadsville died Friday December 30, 2022 in Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest.

He was the loving companion of Barbara (Puczolowski) Neumann and the husband of the late Jane Ann (Giordano) Perri.

Born in Philadelphia he was the son of the late Dominich and Hazel Arlene

(Stechenfinger) Perri.

Joe retired from Spectrum Graphics in Willow Grove as a printing press mechanic. Prior to that he was employed by Typo Graphics Services in Philadelphia.

He enjoyed tinkering with all types of projects. In his younger years he was a National Champion motorcycle racer known as the “Red Dragon”.

In addition to his companion Poppy was survived by his children Veronica “Bonnie” Torres (David), Joseph L., Jr., and Frank (Stacey), seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren, a brother Thomas and his companion’s children Denise Stockton (Willy), Darryl, David and Deron.

He was predeceased by a sister Jean Ellen. Honoring Joe’s wishes there will be no services.

Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com)

bruce c reinhart, 73, of Quakertown died January 11, 2023 in St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus.

Born in Quakertown he was the son of the late Irvin & Betty (Landis) Reinhart.

He was a retired laborer for McAdoo & Allen, Inc. in Quakertown.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and was a member of the Perkasie Owls.

Bruce was a member of the former St. John’s Lutheran Church in Quakertown.

He is survived by a brother Jerry A. Reinhart (Brenda) and a sister Judy Benninger (Barry).

He was predeceased by a brother David T. and a sister Kathy Afflerbach. Services were held on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk. com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

robert anthony roGers ("Bob" or "Bobby"), 62, of Quakertown, passed away on January 9th, 2023 after a battle with cancer.

Bob was born on June 11th, 1960 to Robert (1940-1999) and Ernestine (1943-2019) in Sellersville.

The beach was Bob's happy place and he thoroughly enjoyed taking trips to Rehoboth Beach, DE and Ocean City, MD with his family. He loved watching sports and was known to yell at the TV when things weren't going his way. He wasn't afraid to admit he had a soft spot for a good Hallmark movie. Bob could spend hours binge-watching Forensic Files or the Weather Channel.

Bob was employed at U.S. Plastics as a machinist for over 38 years. He also worked parttime for a cleaning business.

He worked hard, but loved his family harder. Bob is survived by his wife of 35 years, Pat, son Justin, daughter Rebecca, brothers Thomas and John, and sisters Rita and Donna.

In addition to his parents, Bob is predeceased by his brother Larry. All are invited on Friday, February 3 to a visitation from 1011am and a memorial service at 11am, both at Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 135 W. Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951.

William “bill” o schott Jr , 81, passed away on January 19th, 2023, surrounded by his family.

Born in Pine Forge, he was the son of the late William Schott and Mary Carpenter.

Bill proudly served in the United States Army. He worked in the HVAC industry for over 30 years, and he retired from Walker Fuels.

Bill was a Past-Master at the Quakertown Masonic Lodge, where he was a member for over 50 years. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, golfing, and smoking cigars. He will be remembered by his funny jokes and great sense of humor.

Bill will be dearly missed by his wife, Christa, together they shared 59 years of marriage, his daughter, Debbie Slifer (Earl); his granddaughter, Krystl Slifer; his siblings, Russell, John, and Mary; and his buddy, Harley.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bill's name to Shriners Children's Hospital.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

marGaret “meG” elizabeth schury (Green) passed away on December 24th, 2022, in her home.

Born in Abington, she is predeceased by her parents, Harris and Frances Green and her brother, Thomas Green.

Meg graduated from Springfield Township High School in 1976. She went on to continue her education at Chester School of Nursing and graduated in 1979 receiving an associate’s degree.

In her younger years, Meg liked to crochet and take trips to the beach with her husband, Ron. She will be remembered for her famous chocolate chip cookies and spending time with her grandchildren.

She will be dearly missed by her husband, Ronald, together they shared 24 years of marriage; her children, Marcie Formica (Daniel), Daniel Carr (Kourtni), Rachel Diaz (Lee), Samantha Moyer (Thomas), Jessica Schury, and Alex Schury; her grandchildren, Ayden Formica, Karly Formica, Kiera Formica, Kaylee Carr, Daniel Carr JR., Emily Carr, Mason Diaz, Aliyah Diaz, Harper Diaz, Maya Diaz, Hunter Moyer, Riley Moyer, Baby Moyer on the way, Ava Schury, and Hudson Schury; and her siblings, Ann Holland (Jack) and Lois Boyle (Andy); and her father and mother-in-law William and Sandra Schury.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Services, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, Pa, 18951. (215-536-3343)

James Serratore, 56, of Quakertown died January 3, 2023 in his home.

Born in Abington, PA he was the son of Mary (Darrah) Serratore and the late Joseph Serratore, Sr.

He was a landscaping contractor for the former Peter Serratore & Sons.

In addition to his mother he is survived by two brothers Joseph & Nicholas, and a sister Patricia Serratore-Rogolu. Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com)

ruth l. smith, 92, of Doylestown passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on December 30, 2022.

She was born in Center Valley, PA on August 30, 1930 to the late John and Leah (Kohler) Bleam.

She was the loving wife of the late James B. Smith for 48 years until his passing.

She was the lead cook at the White Horse Hotel in Sellersville for over 35 years. She also baked and cooked for the Sines Produce roadside stand on Diamond St. in Sellersville for many years. She was famous for her pot pie.

Ruth was an avid gardener and baker, and loved making cookies for her family. She was a die-hard Phillies fan. Ruth collected dolls of all sorts. She spoiled the birds in her yard with constant food and enjoyed the birdwatching that resulted. She enjoyed playing board games and card games. Most days she could be found putting puzzles together, doing word searches, or crossword puzzles. She also thoroughly enjoyed a good game of Bingo.

Ruth is survived by her children Debra (Richard) Eister, Phillip (Cathy) Joseph, Rebecca (Richard) Klinedinst, and Jody Cooper; son-in-law Robert Sine; daughter-inlaw Cynthia Joseph; brother John Bleam; 31 grandchildren; 53 great grandchildren; 7 great great grandchildren; best friend Valerie Hager; and many other loving family and friends.

She is predeceased by her parents; husband; former husband Phillip Clyde Joseph Sr.; children Stephanie Sine and Steven Joseph; and sisters Evelyn, Janet, Anna, and Jane.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Philippians 4:13- "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me."

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Services, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, Pa, 18951. (215-536-3343)

barbara ann staats (hilGarth), 75, passed away on January 28th, 2023 in her home surrounded by her family. Born in Quakertown, Barbara is the daughter of the late John William Hilgarth and Dorothy Marie Hilgarth (Krigor). Barbara attended Quakertown High School and graduated in 1965. During her time in high school, Barbara loved to play tennis. She then went on to continue her education at East Stroudsburg University where she received a Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education.

Barbara was a 3rd grade teacher in both Bensalem and Pennridge School Districts. She also was a substitute teacher in the Pennridge School District.

Her most rewarding job was raising her two children.

In her free time, Barbara loved gardening, playing the piano, dancing, and going shopping with her daughter.

Barbara's bubbly personality lit up a room and made everyone smile.

She was a loving wife, caring mother and friend, and a fun-loving Grammy. Barbara’s greatest joy in life was spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Barbara will be dearly missed by her husband, Danny O. Staats, married on June 20th, 1970. Together they shared 52 years of marriage. She will also be missed by her children,

Kimberly A. Rendler (Robert J. Rendler) and Brian D. Staats (Melissa A. Staats); her grandchildren, Andrew Rendler, Bradley Rendler, Courtney Rendler, and Mia Staats; and her brother, Johnny J. Hilgarth.

Friends and family are welcome to join Barbara’s family for a visitation on Saturday, February 4th, 2023, from 10:00AM ~ 11:00PM, followed by a memorial service from 11:00AM ~ 12:00PM located at Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343).

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

richard “rich” VerhanoVitz, 78, of Center Valley, passed away on January 18th, 2023, at Lehigh Valley Cedar Crest Hospital.

Born in Walsenburg, Colorado, he is the son of the late John Verhanovitz and Elizabeth "Betsy" Verhanovitz (Skrzynear).

Rich attended Swoyersville High School and graduated in 1962. He then received his undergraduate degree from Wilkes University. Rich continued his education by receiving a doctorate’s degree in mathematical and theoretical physics at Lehigh University.

He was employed by Lockheed Martin for many years.

In his free time, Rich enjoyed photography, riding bikes, running half-marathons, golfing, and on Thursdays having lunch with his former co-workers. He also loved to watch the Eagles and Penn State play football.

His greatest pleasure in life was spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Rich will be dearly missed by his wife, Ellen “Jane” Verhanovitz (Chergosky), together they shared 55 years of marriage, his children, Bryan Verhanovitz (Jean) and Beth Clark (Chad), and his grandchildren, Noah, Sydney, and Peter.

Family and friends are welcome to join Rich's family on February 11th, 2023, for a visitation from 11:00AM ~ 12:00PM followed by a memorial service at 12:00PM located at Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Rich’s name to the American Glaucoma Society.

Francis t. ViVian, Jr , 79 years of age, formerly of Southampton, was called home by Our Lord on January 11, 2023, while residing at the Quakertown Center Nursing Home in Quakertown, PA.

Frank is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Linda Lee Vivian (Hemp), son Francis “Frankie” T. Vivian III (Judy) of Hatboro, PA, son Michael C. Vivian (Rachael) of Jackson, MI and daughter Maureen M. Zielinski (Paul) of Perkasie, PA. In addition, Frank & Linda have 13 grandchildren: Caitlyn, Jada and Joseph Vivian - Elise, Shelby and Ashley Vivian – PJ, Madelyn, Theodore, Samuel, Faith, Gabriel and Noa Zielinski.

Frank was born in Philadelphia on July 26, 1943, the first of seven children born to the late Francis T and Mary (Young) Vivian.

Frank was preceded in death by his younger brother Joseph Vivian and is survived by his younger siblings Raymond (Susan), Maryann Ryals (+Robert), Charles (Margarita), Dennis (Rose) and Renee Thompson (+David), as well as several nieces and a nephew.

During his life, Frank worked hard at providing for his family, first having been employed as a horse trainer for many years, and then having been employed by Decision Data, Bank of America and the IRS.

In his spare time, Frank enjoyed going to the Philadelphia Park racetrack, where he was part-owner of several racehorses. He loved vacationing down the shore with his family in the summers and taking trips & cruises with his wife in retirement. One of Frank’s greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren; being down the shore with them, taking them to the racetrack, out to lunch, to the park or just sitting in the backyard watching them play. Frank also enjoyed his coffee time and would never pass up a good hot dog.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

carl "chuck" Vorhauer, Jr , AKA ‘Chuck The Cowboy,’ passed away on December 27th, 2022, at St. Luke’s Quakertown Hospital surrounded by his family.

Born in Williamsport, he was the son of the late Charles Vorhauer Sr. and Elsie (Sharpless) Vorhauer.

When Chuck was younger, he would ride, train, and show horses and he enjoyed spending his time on the farm. Chuck had an infectious smile and personality.

Chuck was always willing to help people.

~Obituaries~

His entire life, he not only mentored at TriCounty Respite but he and his wife, Doris, opened their home for anyone in need.

Chuck and his late wife, Doris, were active Catholics and very involved with St. Isidore's Catholic Church and St. John's Church. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Later in his life, Chuck pursued a new career in the automobile industry. Over his career, he worked for Chevy and Ford dealerships. Chuck was the best salesman ever. He could sell ice to an Eskimo. Chuck retired from Faulkner Ford and began pursuing his passion for buying and selling antiques.

Chuck is predeceased by his wife, Doris Vorhauer. Together they shared over years sixty years of marriage.

Chuck will be dearly missed by his children, Timothy Vorhauer, Maria Vorhauer, Carl Vorhauer III and his wife, Pam, and Ann Marie Vorhauer; his grandchildren, Carl Vorhauer IV, Alyssa Vorhauer, Elysa Vorhauer, Timothy Vorhauer, Chase Vorhauer, and Tyler Vorhauer; along with many great-grandchildren and extended family.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Last Chance Ranch in Chuck's name.

Joanne p. Welch, 58, passed away peacefully in her home in Sellersville, PA on January 8, 2023.

Born in Sellersville, she was pre-deceased by her parents, Leonard W. and Peggy T. Welch.

Joanne was a 1982 graduate of Lansdale Catholic High School.

She loved her cats, gardening, cooking and eating good food.

She will be dearly missed by her family and loving companion of 11 years, Charles “Guy” Smith, siblings, Peggy Ann Fitzgerald (Terry), Donna Brey (Greg), Leonard Welch (Sherri), Theresa Wagner (Anthony), Linda Welch, and

many nieces and nephews.

Services will be private; All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA 18951. (215-536-3343).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joanne’s name to “Last Chance Ranch” shelter for animals, in Quakertown.

mary ann WindmassinGer, 72, of Quakertown died January 24. 2023 in her home.

She was the wife of Mark Windmassinger, Sr. They were married 39 years on September 13, 2022.

Born in Uniontown, PA, she was the daughter of the late Wallace E. & Anna C. (Maher) Bierer.

She retired as a Scale Master for Plumstead Quarry.

She was a member of the Quakertown American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, and a Legion Rider for Riegelsville American Legion. She was a former manager at the Keelersville Club, and a member of the Perkasie Owls.

In addition to her husband she is survived by three children Annemarie WindmassingerMarino (Brian Minnes), Retired Marine Gunnery Sergeant Mark Windmassinger, Jr. (Melissa), and Mitchell Brown (Bryann); six grandchildren Tegen, Casey, Chase, Evelyn, Piper, and Mark III (Tripp).

She was predeceased by her brother James.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 4, 2023 at 2:00 P.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

Call from 1:00-2:00 P.M. in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Semper Fi & Americas Fund www.thefund.org Following the Memorial Service a gathering will take place at the Owls Club 602 Elm Ave. Perkasie, PA 18944. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

Corn Shocks and Wash Lines

Between Christmas and New Year we went out to our usual shopping areas in Lancaster County.

After having a wonderful breakfast at Shady Maple Smorgasbord we went to the Shady Maple Market to buy all the fixings for New Years Eve and our annual first dinner of Pork and Sauerkraut (A Pennsylvania Dutch tradition). While at the market we purchased a raisin pie. We Pennsylvania Dutch knew this pie as “The Funeral Pie.” I must explain why this is known as the funeral pie. You see, back in what we call the horse and buggy days when someone died the family would announce the funeral. (Post cards that were usually black with gold print and hand delivered to those close to the family.) The folks attending the funeral would prepare a meal afterwards for the family and friends. Those who would volunteer to bake made two special pies. Because funerals were held without a great deal of notice, many housewives could not run “Out to the store as we do today.” Not having much fresh fruit to make a pie with, they would always keep a supply of raisins handy so they could make a pie. Thus a raisin pie became known as the Number One funeral pie. Second on the list was an apple pie. In the fall apples were dried in special pans and kept for use during the winter in the form called schnitz. Some people stored some of their best ‘hard’ apples in the “Cold Cellar” along with the potatoes. Thus an apple pie could be made, although most old time cooks stopped making pies once the softer yellow or Lodi apples were out of harvest. Across the street from the market is a small farm that seems to have a wagon ride business on the side as they have a few fancy wagons and many horses. They have the usual few cattle for milk and butchering for the family. Earlier this fall, I noticed they still cut their corn stalks and have huge “Shocks of corn in the field.” About 1/3 of their shocks were used up on this warm sunny shopping day a few days after winter set in. I vaguely remember a few farms in our area as a youth that practiced this way of harvesting and drying and storing their corn.

After going to “Goods” hardware to replenish our supply of sunflower seeds for the birds (and deer who eat out of the feeders), we went into our favorite Amish dry goods market at Centerville for our cheese, oat meal, baking supplies, and homemade horseradish and sweet pepper sauce. Of course we purchased much more than the items we went out there for. To get there, we go into New Holland and drive about 6 miles through all Amish and Mennonite farms. Because the weather temperature was near 50 degrees, many of the farms had the “Wash out on the wash lines.” We past the Zeltenreich Reformed church, as we usually do, and the farm across the street had multi lines out with the most private items way back. We were out there on Thursday and it surprised me as I remember Monday was usually “Wash Day” when I was a boy. My wife, Nina, reminded me that the warm weather shortly after Christmas probably prompted “Mom” to tell “Pop” to clean off the lines tomorrow because I can wash and the wash will not freeze on the lines but dry as it should.

It was so nice that I took our dog for a walk along the fields as my wife went back in the store for an item she still wanted. A lady came in with a pony cart to go shopping and another lady backed up her typical Amish wagon and went passed us. Our dog just sat there and enjoyed seeing the action without a single bark!

The farms are dormant this time of the year except for the milking and grazing of the miscellaneous livestock. These farms don’t seem to be worried about the shortage of fertilizer as many large farms throughout our state and nation fret over. Their fields have a brownish tint as they recycle the manure for that purpose as farmers used to do here back in the day.

Going to Lancaster is always a joyous occasion. Not only for the great food, the wonderful array of homegrown vegetables and reasonably priced meats and cheeses; but most of all, it takes me back to how it once was here in Upper Bucks County. Gosh, I am almost 80 years old and when I am out there I feel like I am “At home” when we were truly RURAL!

8 Mistakes That Can Upend Your Retirement

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Not Adjusting Your Investment Approach Well Before Retirement: The last thing your retirement portfolio can afford is a sharp fall

in stock prices and a sustained bear market at the moment you’re ready to stop working. Consider adjusting your asset allocation in advance of tapping your savings so you’re not selling stocks when prices are depressed.3

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

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

1. The reTurn and principal value of sTock prices will flucTuaTe as markeT condiTions change and shares when sold may be worTh more or less Than Their original cosT asseT allocaTion and diversificaTion are approaches To help manage invesTmenT risk asseT allocaTion and diversificaTion do noT guaranTee againsT invesTmenT loss pasT performance does noT guaranTee fuTure resulTs

2. under The secure acT, in mosT circumsTances, you musT begin Taking required minimum disTribuTions from your 401(k) or oTher defined conTribuTion plan in The year you Turn 73. wiThdrawals from your 401(k) or oTher defined conTribuTion plans are Taxed as ordinary income and if Taken before age 59½, may be subjecT To a 10% federal income Tax penalTy."

3. The reTurn and principal value of sTock prices will flucTuaTe as markeT condiTions change and shares when sold may be worTh more or less Than Their original cosT asseT allocaTion is an approach To help manage invesTmenT risk asseT allocaTion does noT guaranTee againsT invesTmenT loss pasT performance does noT guaranTee fuTure resulTs tHiS artiCle waS Submitted by bob Podraza of robert JameS inveStmentS at 1313 weSt broad Street, QuaKertown He Can be reaCHed at 215-583-5013 or at robertJameSinveStmentS Com

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, LLC, 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 2022 FMG Suite.

The Upper Bucks Free Press is made possible by the businesses and organizations you see on these pages. Remember to thank them for supporting your community’s voice.

BuckyGrams

All Things Groundhog

BuckyBlock

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

How Abe Lincoln Sunk the Merrimack

February 12th used to be Lincoln’s Birthday. It still is, but we combined it with Washington’s, called it President’s Day and moved it. Now, it celebrates Hoover, Nixon and all the rest of them. Lincoln’s an icon, though, with his name on tunnels and head on pennies. He’s beloved and atop nearly everyone’s favorites lists. It wasn’t that way in his day, though. He was controversial and inflammatory, barely won office. Initially, he had Radical Republicans and Copperhead Democrats to contend with, then a war and a new gaggle of generals and ‘advisors’ pecking at him.

Lincoln was broadly skilled but not an experienced soldier. He led a militia company during the Blackhawk War, famously wrestling himself into that position. But they saw no action. He’d visit Washington’s fortifications and was present during a calvary raid during which he ‘commanded’ a gun battery that took pot-shots. That’s about it. Consequently, I was surprised to learn that Lincoln had planned, organized and commanded, ‘from the field’, a combined military operation during the Civil War. President Lincoln never commanded a field army like Washington did during the Pennsylvania’s Whiskey Rebellion. However, he was more ‘involved’ than Madison was when he observed (as did Francis Scott Key), the bombardment of Fort McHenry in 1812. During Lincoln’s operation, George B. McClellan still commanded the Army of the Potomac, though he was totally unaware of the President’s plan.

Lincoln, Secretary of War, Edwin Stanton and Treasury Secretary, Samuel Chase arrived at the Union’s main base at Fort Monroe, VA, on May 6, 1862. They were there to ‘check on’ McClellan. Stanton despised the general. Political animal Chase sided with powerful Radicals and Abolitionists and was no McClellan supporter, either. The President still trusted him but was frustrated by the army’s slow progress. On their voyage down the Chesapeake from Washington, the potentates risked encountering the Confederate ironclad Virginia (Merrimack). She had been repaired since her battle with the Monitor and again was loose and marauding.

On May 5th, a “fierce, short and decisive” counter-charge, led by Winfield Scott Hancock, near Williamsburg gave McClellan a victory banner with which to fend off his detractors. The push to Richmond was on! Still dissatisfied, Stanton convinced Lincoln to ‘try out’ a plan he’d devised to capture Norfolk and its shipyard, the Virginia’s home base. Confederate forces were occupied against McClellan and the city was vulnerable. The Navy and 10,000-man garrison at Fort Monroe were Lincoln’s to command.

The President enlisted 78-year-old General John E. Wool to lead the expedition. The fort’s commander began his competent, fiftyyear career during the War of 1812. While Lincoln was aboard the flagship Minnesota discussing logistics with his ‘team’, a deckofficer described him: “Dressed in a black suit with a very seedy crepe on his hat, and hanging over the railing, he looked like some Hoosier just starting home from California

with store clothes and a boiled shirt.”

The Lincoln Operation had a stumbling start. On May 8, a flotilla of warships, led by the Monitor, was sent to bombard enemy positions on Sewell’s Point, seven miles north of Norfolk. Troop transports followed and were to land under cover of that fire. But, before they even approached shore, the Virginia steamed into view. The plan was quickly aborted. Transports returned to Fort Monroe and the fleet scattered. Another, safer, landing site was found and, on the night of May 9th, General Wool landed with 5,000 men. The President and Stanton stayed at Fort Monroe to ‘run’ things.

Lincoln had a sleepless night and the next morning experienced the frustration and infuriation all military commanders do. When a brigadier leading troops to reinforce Wool seemed too slow-moving the Commander in Chief blew his top. “Why are you here!? Why not on the other side!?” he shouted and slammed his stovepipe hat to the floor, seedy crepe and all.

General Wool needed no help. His landing was unopposed. The next morning, accompanied by Secretary Chase, they marched to the outskirts of Norfolk. They expected a stubborn defense but, Mayor William W. Lamb greeted them ‘at the gates’ to offer surrender. The 9,000-man Confederate garrison under Major General Benjamin Huger had already evacuated. Lamb insisted on ‘officially’ presenting a set of rusty ‘keys to the city’. According to a witness, he dragged out the surrender ceremony, “with all the formality of a medieval warden.” It was a deliberate stall to give time for demolition crews left behind by Huger to destroy the Gosport Navy Yard, port facilities and stockpiled supplies.

Despite the destruction of the naval yard, the operation was a shining success. A new ‘beachhead’ was gained, offering another route to Richmond. The Confederacy lost a major shipyard and an important port. The Virginia, which was still ‘standing’ off Sewell’s Point, was now a ship without a home, bottled up in the James estuary. Federal forts barred her escape into the bay and she drew too much water to escape upstream to Richmond.

Because of the successful Lincoln Operation, the Virginia’s captain, Josiah Tattnall, realized his ship had no future. He chose not to heroically steam out, guns blazing, to certain destruction. To prevent his ship’s capture, on the night of May 10, Tattnall took the ironclad to Craney Island, a few miles northeast of Norfolk. He ordered the ship abandoned and, before debarking himself, lit a fuse. At 4:58am, May 11, 1862, the sixteen-ton powder magazine on the Virginia, the pride of the Confederate Navy and a ship ever to be remembered as the Merrimack, exploded and sank. President Lincoln returned to Washington and ‘commanded’ another three years of war. McClellan met Robert E. Lee and failed to take Richmond. He was fired, re-hired and fired again in the next six months. ‘Little Mac’ lost to Lincoln in the 1864 presidential election but went on to serve as governor of New Jersey. About Lincoln, we all know— and celebrate his life this time of year.

JaCK SCHiCK iS a long time QuaKertown area reSident and regular Contributor Here at ubfP. reaCH Him at SJCKSCHC@aol Com

When To Modify Your Estate Plan

BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ.

With the new year upon us, it is that time again…time to review your estate plan! By their very nature, estate planning documents are meant to be long lasting and are not prone to frequent revision. For those who are lucky enough to maintain a degree of stability throughout their life, there may only be one or two occasions which warrant a revision or adjustment of their estate plan. But for the vast majority of us, our estate plans should be updated every few years, or after every major life event, in order to follow through on our legacy wishes. With that being said, there are certain events that warrant the revising of some or all of your estate planning documents, or completely scrapping your previous estate plan and starting over. These events include:

• Marriage (first marriage or subsequent marriage);

• The birth or adoption of a new child;

• Divorce;

• The death of a current beneficiary in your will or trust;

• Choosing to add or remove a beneficiary from your estate plan;

• Choosing to change your executor, trustee or guardian;

• You win the lottery! (or simply a change in your financial situation);

• A move to a different state.

Keep in mind that a revision to your estate plan does not necessarily mean that you need to draft and execute all new documents. Sometimes a simple amendment or addendum will suffice. But each situation is unique. Generally speaking, significant changes will warrant new documents. If you have undergone a major life event and need to adjust your estate plan; or if you simply need a starter estate plan, make sure you sit down with an experienced estate planning attorney who can create a customized estate plan to suit your individual needs. And last but not least, do not procrastinate!

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, family law, and buSineSS law to Set uP a ConSultation, Call HiS offiCe at (267) 227-9138 or viSit HiS webSite at www fravel-law Com

“No one’s ever achieved financial fitness with a January resolution that’s abandoned by February.”

- Suze Orman

QCHS Fundraisers Fuel Scholarship Programs

BY RAY FOX '66

In my January article, I wrote about the history and activities of the QCHS Alumni Association. I want to thank the people who have been reading the Alumni Spotlight Articles and who have contacted me with positive feedback and innovative ideas. As a result of the January Article, several people have contacted me asking for more information about the Alumni Association Scholarship program and the Designer Bag Bingo event that helps to fund this program. Hence, this month’s Article is about the fundraiser and the use of the money.

From 2009 through 2015 we had several types of small fundraising events with a variety of results. Many of these took considerable work but did not provide the results we were seeking. In 2016 we held our first Designer Bag Bingo event, which was very well received by participants as well as members of the Board of Directors. The first event in 2016 was organized by Barbara Schwenk Hafler ’80. This was a highly successful start to fund the Scholarship Program. The event has been held every year from 2016-2020. In 2021 the event took a one-year hiatus due to Covid. It was restarted last year in 2022. Denise Loux Fox (Class of ’80) took over the chairperson role in 2017 and has continued in that role. Several Board Members have also been instrumental in planning and organizing the event.

This year’s event is a Designer Bag Bingo and will take place on Sunday March 26 at 1:00 PM at Benner Hall in Richlandtown. Tickets are nearly sold out already, but availability can be checked by contacting Lori Horne Kertesz ’79 at QCHSalumniboard@gmail.com. All proceeds go toward the Scholarship Fund for the class of 2023.

Raising money for the Scholarships is the main goal of the Alumni Association. The High School Guidance Office is helpful in advertising the scholarship process to the Senior Class. Applications must include background information, essay questions answered by the applicant, and a recommendation written by a peer. All applications are reviewed by a committee of the Alumni Association and are interviewed by the committee to determine recipients. Each recipient is awarded a $1,000 scholarship with the number of scholarships determined by the amount of available funds. Since 2010 there have been forty-four scholarships awarded in the amount of $44,000. The Bingo Fundraiser has been instrumental in raising funds to support and increase the number of scholarships awarded. Opportunities to support the fundraiser include making a monetary donation to the Alumni Association, providing a gift certificate, or a basket for the basket raffle.

The Quakertown Community Alumni Association encourages alumni to participate in the Association activities. Its mission includes fundraising to provide scholarship opportunities each year for graduating seniors. Please check out our Facebook Pages “Quakertown High School Alumni Association” and the Alumni pages of the QCSD.org website for more information.

We are a 501C3 organization and always welcome any contributions toward our scholarship endeavors. If you are interested in donating, please email Qchsalumniboard@ gmail.com and you will receive instructions on how to do so. Comments and ideas for future articles can be sent to Ray Fox at rdefox@msn.com.

Sabella Named December UBCTS Student of the Month

Emily Sabella is a student in the Health Care Careers program at Upper Bucks County Technical School and a senior at Pennridge High School.

Emily is a First Honors student and has received the Outstanding Level I award in her program. She served as the UBCTS SkillsUSA Vice President and the SkillsUSA District Reporter. Emily is OSHA and CPR/First Aid certified and has earned many certifications to prepare her for the Health Care Industry.

After graduation, Emily plans to pursue a career as a Registered Nurse.

Mrs. Freeh added the following: Emily is consistently an "A" student at UBCTS. She has handled staff changes and the disappointment of clinical being canceled due to Covid by taking advantage of other opportunities to learn and work towards a future in the healthcare field. Emily sets high expectations for herself and accomplishes these. She is taking Honors Biology at the high school and

is involved with the STEM program. She plans to attend Bucks County Community College in the fall. She participates in the Bucks CC In

School Youth program and will earn additional certifications during her senior year. Emily always has a smile on her face and exemplifies professional workplace behavior. She is a National Technical Honor Society member and has many First Honors.

Justin Guarini’s Positive Message Reaches Quakertown Students

BY GARY WECKSELBLATT

The American Idol and Broadway star, the school district’s Artist-In-Residence, preached confidence and a willingness to fail to ultimately achieve success.

From the outset of a more than two-hour coaching session with Quakertown Community School District students and parents, Justin Guarini put everyone at ease. Headlined as an Audition Secrets Masterclass, the star of Broadway shows and American Idol let everyone know that he sat where they’re sitting and their dreams can be fulfilled.

“I’ve done what you’ve done and lived what you lived,” he said. “I’ve been where it is you want to be. It takes a lot of hard work but if I can do it you can do it.”

His message hit home with Quakertown’s young people. Karinna Richardson, a senior who performs with the Varsity Singers and in school plays, said “It’s very relieving to know that I can be more confident in my own abilities. He made it in acting and you can see he’s a real person. Where else would I ever hear these things from someone of his background or have the opportunity to meet him?”

Mr. Guarini was brought to the district by the Quakertown Community Education Foundation’s biennial Artist-In-Residence program. Dr. Erin Oleksa-Carter, a QCEF board member and QCSD’s Supervisor of Middle Level Teaching and Learning, huddled with several teachers to discuss the program. Erin Camburn, the high school’s choral director, suggested Mr. Guarini.

On January 30, his interactive Audition Secrets was a huge success as he shared the highlights and lowlights of a career that took off in the first season of American Idol in 2002 when he reached the finals with Kelly Clarkson. Mr. Guarini, 44, has been the lovable “Lil’ Sweet” in Dr. Pepper commercials since 2015 and performed in seven Broadway productions. On February 1 he will be giving pointers to 10 students selected by teachers.

As he spoke and gracefully maneuvered the stage in the Quakertown Performing Arts Center, Mr. Guarini used photos, videos and his magical singing voice to teach, encourage and motivate his attentive audience.

“(Being here tonight) is one more step in a long road of steps to your success,” he said. “I’m taking you by your hand … watch that pothole. Everything you want is waiting for you on the other side of willingness to fail.”

“It felt real, and I was very excited to hear what he had to say,” said Zach Polek, a junior who finished first in auditions as both a singer and instrumentalist or the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District 11 chorus, band, and orchestra. “I have to be confident. It’s okay to be me where I’m at.”

Mr. Guarini enjoyed the back-and-forth

with audience members and they savored his feedback. He opened up about his failures, including getting words wrong Idol’s Big Band Night when singing Route 66. “I just kept going,” he said.

A low point came one night alone in a hotel room in Los Angeles, watching Saturday Night Live when Tina Fey on Weekend Update announced Mr. Guarini had been dropped from his recording contract. It’s how he learned about it.

Mrs. Camburn referenced that type of “authenticity. To hear him describe the incredible highs and crushing lows was so inspiring and a great message for our students.”

Stephanie Zajkowski, QCEF’s board president, said he “spoke to them in a way they can relate. ‘You need to go for it.’ ”

In addition to the audition tips he shared, Mr. Guarini’s advice is something that will inspire students with just about any challenge they face or career they seek.

“There’s something you have to give,” he said. “You’re not just an instrument in a line of people. You all have value.”

Dr. Oleksa said “His messages are important no matter what you do. The goal of the ArtistIn-Residence program is to touch on a variety of career pathways. We think hearing what our students did from a star performer will go a long way.”

Mrs. Zajkowski of the QCEF said “the things he said are going to stick with our kids forever. It’s not just about auditioning. His words work for whatever path they choose.”

For his part Mr. Guarini is hoping “the underlying lessons and principles I teach will be part of my legacy. My hope is that I teach people how to avoid the mistakes I made so they can get down the road to success faster than I did.”

“While it is February one can taste the full joys of anticipation. Spring stands at the gate with her finger on the latch.” - Patience Strong

INDOOR CRAFT FAIR

CRAFTERS WANTED

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GEORGE’S HOME DECOR & COLLECTABLES

BY PALMA MOYER, RN

I wish to correct a slight mistake in last month’s article as I am not totally retired. After working for 65 years as a Registered Nurse, I continue to work on a Behavioral Health Unit, caring for people with mental health and substance abuse issues. I must say that in my entire nursing career I have never worked with a more dedicated and caring group of people. From the doctors, nurses, mental health techs, case managers, and cleaning staff, it is an honor and a privilege to be a part of this unit. Staff is encouraged to continue our education and be involved in the community. This past Christmas all of the patients were given gifts

Experiences in Nursing Acceptance

and made to feel special so that they would not feel left out and away from home. We have many groups during the days and evenings in which new coping skills are encouraged. Our unit also offers medication education, recreational therapy, and pet therapy – when available. The case managers often go out of their way to find and implement the best care and follow up to prevent relapse. I hope by the grace of God I can continue to be a part of this unit until I am 90 years old and want to pursue a warmer climate. Happy, Prosperous, and Healthy New Year to all.

~ Palma Moyer,RN Class of 1957 Temple University Hospital

Palma will be SHaring more of Her exPerienCeS and PerSPeCtiveS on nurSing. SHe Can be reaCHed at dontHelPmemoyer@aol Com

American Legion Post 242 Update

BY DICK HELM

Your Post is on “The move.” Yes, we are updating the building, the advertising, and our community involvement.

The building needs of inside sprucing up were completed during the partial shutdown with Covid. Smoking has been restricted from the Dining and Refreshment area. A new electronic sign should be in place by March of this year, finishing up on the meeting area that was also refreshed during Covid, and most important a new roof will be installed before January 2023. We wish to thank Lowe’s and Home Depot for their generous contributions towards the roof and the interior renovations. Later on this year we will have further coverage of their help as well as individuals that coordinated these projects. Yes, Post 242 is “On the move.” Our veterans and community deserve nothing but the best.

The new sign will aid us to let you, the public, know of our special Memorial Events, our Friday night specials, and our specials offered by the “Sons Group” of our organizations. Charles Wismer mentioned to me that we have a whole array of support from organizations within our Legion that you might be able to join to be a part of this new revelation that is happening at our Post.

Les Walters recently sent a message to me showing the amount of “Missions” our Honor Guard attended in 2022. We not only

attend Honor Services for veterans at funerals; we also are available for many community functions for flag presentations and other appropriate military honors that are requested. The statistics are as follows: Funeral Honors were 35 appearances and Color Guard events were 10 appearances. The new sign will help inform you, the public, of the great events, Friday night specials. Steak Sandwich nights, and breakfasts. Our ViceCommander told me that the last few Friday night specials were “Sold Out” early as well as the last Steak Sandwich night. So get there early for a great “bargain feed” and also an event that helps support the need of our veterans, sports programs, children, and most important community.

Other happenings: Our AOL (Legion Auxiliary) is offering a Super Bowl Special: We are going to have a Hoagie Sale to help pay for our sign offering you choice of Italian, Ham, or Turkey hoagies for you to enjoy while watching the game. You can order special trimmings including lettuce, tomato, onions, and dressings. All for the low cost of $7.00. Orders must be in by February 5th for pickup on February 12th. Get you orders in early. Call our post number for more details 215-538-0747. Also the Post is planning a Vietnam Veterans Era day on March 26th with a special dinner etc. Keep an eye out on our new sign for details.

~ For God & Country, Dick Helm

So here I am working very hard on accepting that my mother is no longer here in my physical world. I obviously know she has not been here for 18 months now. I just still struggle with moving completely forward without her in my life. I have had more days of contentment and felt true happiness for minutes and hours, not days though.

I feel confident that I am exactly where I am supposed to be right now. Despite feeling like I am lost. Grief is an interesting journey. I have tried to explain and share with others how trying and painful this past year or more has been for me.

My heart is still quite broken yet it is on the mend. I was able to enjoy some of my holidays. The best day was actually at my neighbors house on Christmas Day. I was able to be in the moment for most of the day and enjoy myself. If I felt overwhelmed with my feelings of sadness thinking about my mother I made it a point to connect with others.

I was not alone in my loss. Others were experiencing loss it was just different than mine. I shared stories about my mother and found myself smiling when I talked about her.

My mother spent every Christmas with my husband and I for many years. So it is bittersweet for me.

I approached the holidays with wanting to connect and give and receive love from friends and loved ones as well as perfect strangers. One of my closest friends went and had a special lunch with me like I did with my mother.

In the New Year I have had a few setbacks with some unresolved family issues. I am feeling hopeful that if I can stay true to myself and do what is best for me and for others that I will come out on the other side.

I often share that I have a strong belief system in taking care of myself and setting healthy boundaries. I look at every issue or problem in my life as an opportunity for me to grow and become a better person. I don't always feel excited about the uncomfortable painful issues however I truly have embraced them and trust that I have survived these past 18 months and will become an even stronger more grounded woman, mother, sister and friend this year.

I am looking forward to feeling more peace and balance that I am seeking in my life this year. Through acceptance I will be able to fulfill my needs and restore my faith in myself and my new journey without my mother. My belief is: "that all persons are truly greater than they think they are."

SuSan v brewer iS a Certified life CoaCH and PSyCHotHeraPiSt in tHe uPPer buCKS County area. SHe Can be reaCHed at 215-872-4219.

Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.

Upper Bucks Senior Center Seeks Musical Talent

Help Wanted! Seniors (55+) that like music.

The Upper Bucks Senior Center’s Mixed Chorus became inactive due to Covid-19 and Bob Beck wants to get it going again. He is in need of a keyboard player (accompanist) and a group of people that like this sing as a group in unison. Reading music is not required.

Practice is Wednesdays at 11:30 am at the Senior Center.

A drummer and two ‘roadies’ (helpers) are also needed by the Senior Center’s band “The Impossibles.” Practices are Wednesdays 10 to 11 am at the center. They play many styles of old music and entertain at nursing and assisted living homes.

Contact Robert E. Beck at 215-538-8671

or call the Senior Center at 215-536-3066 to volunteer, for questions, or more information.

Fly Leaders Fly!

BY GARY WECKSELBLATT

Super Bowl-bound Philadelphia Eagle Britain Covey visited Neidig and Richland elementary schools on Wednesday, February 1st. And while students excitedly asked questions and received hugs and high-fives from the Eagles rookie punt returner, questions weren’t only about the team, but also about playing in the National Football League, facing the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl, and the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Mr. Covey spoke about something he shares with the students at both schools: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. He is the grandson of Steven R. Covey, the author of the book that Neidig and Richland students are learning leadership principles from. The Leader in Me process is an elementary version of Steven R. Covey’s work.

the heart of QCSD's mission to create College and Career Ready students.

Britain Covey said he learned the seven habits as a boy, uses them today and has shared his grandfather’s books with some Eagles teammates.

“I use the seven habits all the time,” Britain Covey said. An example: “Begin with the end in mind. I’m going to score a touchdown every time I catch the ball.”

Which habit helps you beat the other team? “Synergize, coming together,” he said. "You guys really think that I could beat the Dallas Cowboys on my own? Probably not. But guess what? I have teammates like Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown, and when I work together with them, they help me beat them."

What’s the hardest habit to follow? "Seek first to understand, then be understood," he said. "I know this teacher, this coach really cares about me. I need to listen to him and what he's saying to me because he cares," Mr. Covey said. "That's the hardest habit to follow but I think it's the most important."

Richland Principal Nicole Zuerblis said “I’m so happy with your connection to the seven habits.”

He said his best friend on the Eagles is Jake Elliot, the Eagles placekicker. Team leaders are Jason Kelce and Brandon Graham.

Seeing a student with a Darren Sproles number 43 jersey, he called him “my favorite player of all time. Like he was, I’m the smallest player on the whole team.”

Musicians in both schools greeted Mr. Covey with the Eagles fight song "Fly Eagles Fly." And he welcomed by the mascot from each school, Neidig’s Nash and Richland’s Richie.

I was hoping that my DNA results would be in for this month’s column but it will have to wait til next month. I am so unique looking that everyone asks what I am. I would like to introduce a new member to my family. This is Maisie. She is a Pug/Terrier mix that looks like my dog brother that passed. She came from a rescue in California and arrived Christmas Day. This is a picture of my 2 dog sisters. There are 3 of us now. I’m still the one in charge though. I want you all to save a date in the future. I was just informed there will be a Mutt Strut on June 3rd to benefit our wonderful K9 Police Force here in Quakertown. I will remind you as time moves on. Those dogs protect us all. (I’m too small to scare anybody.) Farewell to you all for now and stay tuned for my test results next month

Bucks County Community Raises $200,000 For Families in Need

“He was the most amazing man in the world,” Britain Covey said. “I love him so much and I miss him.”

Leader in Me is an ongoing process that teaches 21st-century leadership and life skills to students, and creates a culture of student empowerment based on the idea that every child can be a leader. Neidig and Richland consistently weaves this process into the existing QCSD curriculum, and teaches students about responsibility, creativity,

He was very generous with his time. His first visit was with Neidig students in grades K-2. He then went to the second floor to meet students in grades 3-5. At Richland, students and teachers filled the cafeteria. He later visited classrooms for pictures with students.

Several media members were on hand. FOX 29, WFMZ-TV, The Intelligencer and Courier Times newspapers, The Morning Call and Upper Bucks Free Press. WFMZ reporter Rose Itzcovitz interviewed Neidig students Sofia Gehris and Jameson McKenna. Asked for his thoughts when he sees the

This holiday season, philanthropists Gene & Marlene Epstein pledged that if the Bucks County community could raise $175,000 for the Intelligencer’s Give a Christmas campaign, they would donate an additional $25,000 to Bucks County Opportunity Council (BCOC) for a total of $200,000 available to struggling community members.

The Bucks County community rose to the challenge, making donations ranging from $5 to $10,000. Each gift directly impacts local families who are on their journey out of poverty. Give A Christmas assists families not just during the holidays, but throughout 2023, with food, utilities, housing supports and other basic needs.

This year, BCOC saw a 22% increase in need, with a record 1,255 people in 449 households receiving direct holiday assistance. Inflation has hit everyone but especially low to moderate income households. The extra money

continued support of BCOC, our programs, and the families that we serve.” said Erin Lukoss, CEO of BCOC. This year, Gene wanted to dedicate his donation on behalf of all our Jewish neighbors and call attention to the amazing charitable work they do throughout the year to support all people in need in this community.

“On behalf of the 10 synagogues within Bucks County and the Gene and Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Fund, we are honored to be able to offer this $25,000 to the Give A Christmas Campaign and BCOC.” says Gene Epstein. “Thank you to everyone for their fantastic efforts to help us reach our goal and provide $200,000 to families in need in Bucks County.”

For the past two years, Gene and Marlene have pledged $75,000 to the Give a Christmas campaign through matching gift challenges.

Employment Opportunities

Think Local. Work Local. Be Local.

New Vitae Wellness & Recovery HIRING at our Coopersburg and Quakertown locations. We have positions starting at $16/ hr. and we can offer a $1.00 shift differential for any 2nd or 3rd shift. We offer medical, dental, vision, 401K, tuition reimbursements, biweekly pay, paid holiday, vacation, sick and personal time off, with accruals beginning the first day of employment; we even celebrate you with a paid day off for your birthday! Contact Stephanie at 610 483 1311 or skalb@newvitaewellness.com

Krause Home and Lawn CareSeeking 2 or 3 individuals to expand business. Construction experience is helpful. Also hiring for snow removal. Hourly wage will be determined based on experience. References requested. Clean driving record and driver’s license required. 267-261-7671

The Proper Brewing Company Currently seeking cooks, servers, runners, hosts, and bartenders to join the Proper family. Email kris@theproperbrewing.com or stop in during business hours at 117 W. Broad Street, Quakertown.

Biagioli ConstructionLaborer/Helper Wanted For Remodeling Looking for a self motivated person. Experience not necessary, willing to train the right individual. Must have reliable transportation. Contact us at Jbiagioli5775@gmail.com

Spor’s General Store - Hiring various positions, ages 15 & up. bspor@sporsgeneralstore.com or stop in the store at 22 W. Broad Street,Trumbauersville

Keystone Elk Country Alliance (KECA) Annual Update

The year 2022 was a very interesting year. Once again, the attendance to the Elk Center and their various scheduled events were a success. The long distance learning program to acquaint students to the Elk and conservation issues was also successful. So much so that KECA is in the process of constructing a second facility to help them accomplish their goal of outdoor education. The Elk Expo that is held during the time of a live drawing for Pa. Game Commission’s harvest tags in August drew a record crowd. The special Elk Tag awarded to KECA that is raffled off, brought in a record amount of over Four Hundred Thousand dollars for KECA’s programs of education, conservation, and other related expenses. Millions have visited KECA’s Headquarters on Winslow Hill, in Elk County. The number of Elk estimated at 1500 + animals are phenomenal. (When we purchased our vacation home in the area about 14 years ago the number of Elk was estimated at around 900.) Since the state started a harvesting program, by having an Elk Hunting Permit, the elk has improved and has spread out to more area in a five county region known as “The Pennsylvania Wilds.” In order to maintain a herd this size of very large animals, food plots on public and private lands are necessary and an area that is still very rural must be where they are located. A large deer is around 200 pounds. A large Elk is around 900-1000 pounds. Over 140 Special Elk permits were drawn over a series of additional hunting periods this year. This has proved successful. KECA had a special archery season and again had a late season.

I take time out to mention that a son of two of our Lenape/Wapiti committee members was lucky enough to draw a permit for a “Cow” elk. Our friends, Roger and Patti Sigmans’ son Ryan was the lucky one. Roger’s dad, John, introduced his family to the wonders of God’s Country (Potter County) and the family still have properties in that county. Ryan

seems to have an uncanny skill in “Getting the big ones.” He seems to have the golden touch of luck we all aspire to have. I was just as happy to hear his name mentioned as possibly being able to harvest a Pa. Elk. Roger and Ryan signed up with an outfitter in the region of their hunt and enjoyed a wonderful father/ son relationship during their scouting forays ahead of the hunt. After the hunt started after Christmas they hunted for 5 days before Ryan harvested a Cow Elk weighing over 500 pounds. Each day, I received a report of activities from Roger or Patti. On the 5th day success was achieved! The elk was harvested in the area on the high plateaus located not to far from our vacation home. This shows just how “wild” our Elk herd is as it took a very experienced hunter 5 days to score. This is why Roger, Patti, and the rest of us work so hard to hold events such as our spring banquet and attend expo's, fairs, and organization presentations to tell of this wonderful asset here in Pennsylvania.

Last year we held our banquet at Bear Creek Mountain Resort in Macungie, Pa. and net close to $40,000.00 to help KECA in their endeavor to preserve and educate all about our Pennsylvania Elk Herd. This year we have gathered many wonderful prizes to be awarded through games, drawings, live bids, and silent auctions. The event will once again be held at Bear Creek Mountain Resort in Macungie, Pa with a wonderful selection of meals. (Elk, Beef, Crab &Vegetarian) The date of the banquet is Saturday, March 25th, 2023. To receive an order form please contact Martin Snyder at 215 416-1134 or Wayne McConahy at 267-733-7554 or e-mail friarmert@verizon. net. Request your application ASAP.

This fund raiser is a lot of fun with good food, more wonderful information on our Pa. Elk, and most important an opportunity to preserve these regal animals for your viewing pleasure or to give someone like Ryan Sigmans’ a hunt of a lifetime.

“Freezing cold winds, biting chills, and white snow fluffed hills. Valentine’s Day, oh how gay! Presidents’ Day is coming our way. February, sweet and small, the greatest month of all.” - Eric Lies

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Students’ Wawa Behavior Draws Rave Reviews

Quakertown parents, ya done good!

A Wawa associate was so impressed with a group of well-behaved QCHS students who showed up after each Friday night football game they are throwing them a party.

A business thought so much of your children’s polite and respectful behavior they’re throwing them a party. The honor is being given to approximately two dozen students who attend Quakertown Community High School and were part of the Student Section for Friday night football games. Following each game, whether it be home or away, the students traveled to the Wawa on West Pumping Station Road and Route 309 for a sit-down meal.

“They were so very polite and so very patient,” said Michelle Yerkes, a Wawa associate who developed a friendship with the group and suggested a party to the store manager to repay the students’ excellent behavior. “There were 20 to 30 of them every Friday night, and it was crowded. But they waited nicely and always cleaned up after themselves. They’re just all-around good kids.”

Ty Wilkin, a Student Section leader, said the students were looking for a place to unwind following the game, and other restaurants were crowded. So they checked out the Wawa, which was remodeled in April, and added tables.

“We’d yell and have fun at games after a long week and then went to Wawa to kind of decompress,” Ty said. “We did not leave until

everything was cleaned up. We developed a nice bond (with Ms. Yerkes) and wanted to make her feel welcome and not obliged to clean up after us. She always asked us how the game went. There were lots of please and thank yous.”

QCHS Principal Mattias van 't Hoenderdaal commended the students’ behavior and the community partnership. “This showing of student leadership is the perfect example for all students to follow,” he said. “Our young people are making a positive impression in the community and they are being rewarded for doing the right thing. We appreciate Wawa reaching out to make this happen.”

Ms. Yerkes said the party will include a catering tray with hoagies and mac and cheese, which is what the students typically ordered. “We just want to show our appreciation,” she said. “We’re so proud of these kids.”

QCHS senior Emma Hilton, part of the Student Section, said the students were discussing Wawa’s generosity and “felt grateful. It feels nice that an everyday act of being respectful goes a long way.”

Each Friday, the students came in wearing whatever the theme of the game was, for example: Hawaiian Night, Camo, USA, Pink, Gold. They took group photos and included Ms. Yerkes. “She was always so excited to see us and we were excited to see her, too,” Emma said.

“I wish them well in the future,” Ms. Yerkes said. “Their parents have taught them to be polite and kind and it shows.”

Storage Solutions for your Stuff

Collectors like to rotate collections with frequency and display their stuff in various parts of one’s home. Some collectible items only make an appearance at certain times of the year. Just like there are certain rules for exhibiting objects in museums, there are also suggestions as to the correct way to prepare objects for long term storage. First and foremost, only store clean objects. When it comes to any collectible, clean it first, then store it. Location, Location, Location

The location for the storage of collections is vital to their long life and their condition impacts value. Storage areas should have controlled temperature and humidity levels. Since most of us are not in the market for a sophisticated HVAC system like the one the Smithsonian Institute or your local museum uses to maintain storage areas at 70 degrees F and 55% humidity, we can afford to make sensible choices when it comes to art and antiques storage. For instance, an attic that is freezing cold in the winter and burning hot in the summer is not an appropriate place to store your art, antiques, or collectibles. The basement, which is commonly damp or even wet during certain times of the year, is not a good solution for storing your stuff either. Any drastic change in temperature or humidity within a storage area can damage your collections to the point of no return. Once mold grows or heat attacks an object, the game is over. Art and antiques do not fare well in sheds, garages, or outbuildings where there is little or no regulated heating or cooling. Simply put, the temperature and humidity in which you feel comfortable is the same climate

that is best for your art, antiques, and collectibles. Consider storing your collections in a guest room closet or other low traffic area on the main floor of your home. Temperature and humidity need to be constant and remember, art and antiques like to live where you like to live. Sometimes it is best to display your objects and let them enjoy the consistent temperature of your home.

What to Avoid

There are certain things to avoid when it comes to storing art and antiques. Some objects need more care than others. Some objects cannot be near other objects. And there are specific objects that need more care than others. For example, cardboard should be avoided in your storage spaces. It attracts bugs. It is acidic. It can leave stains on fragile art or antiques. Bubble wrap is great for transport but a no-no when it comes to long term storage. Bubble wrap traps heat and will speed up the deterioration process of your prized possessions. So, don’t used bubble wrap to store your pieces. You don’t want to wrap and store your valuable Lladro figurines in bubble wrap and then store them away for months. Why? The heat trapped within the bubble wrap over time may damage the hand painted and glazed porcelain figurine.

Klover Contracting Honored by Dept of Defense for Patriotic Support

Pennsylvania Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense office, announced that Klover Contracting Inc. recently received the Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of employees serving in the Pennsylvania Guard and Reserve.

Pennsylvania ESGR is particularly proud to present employers with a Patriot Award for their strong support of their employees serving in our nation’s Reserve forces during ESGR’s 50th Anniversary year.

Klover Contracting Inc. Supervisor Matt Williams was nominated for the Patriot Award by Sgt. Anthony Canicatti, of the 642nd Aviation Support Battalion of the New York Army National.

Wes Craig, Pennsylvania Southeast Area ESGR Chair and State Chair Emeritus, presented the Patriot Award Williams who is a retired Army veteran that served in the 75th Ranger Regiment and had multiple deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. In presenting the awards, Craig commented: “I know first-hand how critical it is to pay tribute to those companies and employers that hire and support our Guard and Reserve forces.”

Canicatti told Craig: “Matt personally checks up on me when I return to work from drill or training; he has provided help with anything I might need. He recognizes my work ethic I get from the military. Matt has made making up time from drill so easy, in ways other companies I’ve worked for have not. Matt also offers very helpful military advice as well while I am deployed.”

In addition to presenting a Patriot Award to Williams, Craig obtained a Statement of Support. The Statement of Support confirms that the company joins other employers in pledging:

We fully recognize, honor, and comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and ReEmployment Rights Act (USERRA).

We will provide our managers and supervisors with the tools they need to effectively manage employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.

We appreciate the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to the

workforce and will encourage opportunities to hire Guardsmen, Reservists and Veterans.

We will continually recognize and support our country’s service members and their families, in peace, in crises and in war.

“Today, supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s Guard and Reserve units,” said Craig.

“I am asking all Southeast Pennsylvania employers to take a look at their current human resources policies to incorporate policies supportive of Guard and Reserve employees.” Many Pennsylvania employers provide support above and beyond their legal requirements by law by offering pay-differential to offset the loss of wages, and extension of health care benefits, which complement coverage provided by the military, when their employees mobilize.”

Klover Contracting Inc. joins a cadre of Fortune 500 companies, state and federal, agencies and thousands of America’s employers in demonstrating support for our armed forces. Craig added: “By signing the Statement of Support, Klover Contracting Inc. is sending a clear message to its employees that while they are serving their country, they do not have to worry about their civilian jobs.”

ESGR, a Department of Defense office, seeks to foster a culture in which all employers support and value the employment and military service of members of the National Guard and Reserve in the United States. ESGR facilitates and promotes a cooperative culture of employer support for National Guard and Reserve service by developing and advocating mutually beneficial initiatives, recognizing outstanding employer support, increasing awareness of applicable laws and policies, resolving potential conflicts between employers and their service members, and acting as the employers’ principal advocate within DoD. Paramount to ESGR's mission is encouraging employment of Guardsmen and Reservists who bring integrity, global perspective, and proven leadership to the civilian workforce.

For more information about ESGR Outreach Programs, or ESGR volunteer opportunities, please call 1-800-336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil.

2022 Volkswagen Atlas

Perhaps it’s a coincidence, but since I had the privilege of testing Volkswagen’s 4Motion (AWD) Atlas Cross Sport SEL Premium R-Line, I’ve been seeing a lot of new Atlas’s on area roadways. Seems folks discovered the fine attributes of this attractive SUV.

For starters, Atlas Cross Sport R-Line has a suave, conservative yet sporty look with its sloping roofline and R-Line trim package that boasts a black-accented grille, stainless steel pedal caps and other special trim items for an extra touch of sporty toughness.

Atlas Cross Sport differs from the standard Atlas that we previously reviewed in 2021, as it doesn’t have a third-row seat. The Sport model is for folks who don’t need the extra

it contains a driver information display for alerts, features, functions and other operating information.

Heated back seats offer decent leg and head room and thanks to a low-profile transaxle hump, a short-legged person can be comfortably seated in the middle seat in three abreast fashion.

As for cargo space with a hands-free liftgate, and with the rear seats upright, there’s 40.3 cubic feet of space measuring 46.5 inches deep, 47 wide and 29 high. Flip the seatbacks and capacity expands to 77.8 cubic feet for 77 inches of loading depth.

Little Retires from IVCC with 25 Years of Service

inches) when compared to VW’s Tiguan compact SUV, so it can be considered a midsize in comparison.

Atlas Cross Sport is offered in S, SE, SE w/Technology, SE w/Technology R Line, SEL, SEL R Line, SEL Premium and SEL Premium R Line we tested.

As Atlas Cross Sports’ exterior is conservative and sporty, so is its interior. A low 19-inch step-in settles you into comfy and supportive heated/cooled leather front seats where you’ll notice a racy flat-bottom steering wheel, a 10.25-inch touchscreen that serves a host of functions that includes a Fender audio system, rearview camera with overhead view, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLink, Wi-Fi with App Connect, Park Assist and more.

Traditional HVAC controls are large and easy to view and use with selections displayable and selectable on the screen. Below them is a wireless smartphone charger.

The console houses a burly gear selector that controls the 8-speed automatic transmission that I’m a bit surprised, didn’t include paddle shifters. The shifter shares the console with the dual-function drive mode switch. By pressing the middle section of the rotary switch, it offers Eco, Normal, Sport and Custom modes. Rotate the outer ring switch for Snow, Normal, Off-Road Auto, and Off-Road Custom modes.

Atlas Cross Sport comes with Park Assist (parking steering assist) w/front-rear park distance control, hill hold/descent control, sunroof and more.

Over on the large digital gauge cluster,

While two powertrains are offered, the Atlas Cross Premium R Line comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 that generates 276-hp and 268 lb/ft of torque for EPA mileage estimates of 18 city, 24-highway mpg with engine start/stop technology. Coupled to the 8-speed trans, the V6 moves this 4,449-pound SUV with ease. It’s no speedster, but who needs to go from one stop light to another in 3 seconds?

As for ride and handling and shod with 9-inch wide, 21-inch tall premium Pirelli tires with coil springs in back, Atlas’ ride is smooth, exceptionally quiet, planted in tight turns and parks easily with its 40.52 foot turning diameter.

With an exhaustive list of standard items that includes lane assist/keep assist, emergency medical assist, forward collision warning w/autonomous emergency braking w/pedestrian monitoring, blind spot monitor, rear traffic alert and rain sensing wipers to list a few, there was but one extra cost item and that being red Aurora metallic paint ($395) that took the base price of $49,945 to $51, 535 with delivery.

To its credit, Atlas came with impressive government 5-star safety ratings of a full five overall stars; four for driver/passenger frontal crash; five for front/rear seat side crash and four for rollover.

Volkswagen’s top line Atlas Cross deserves a serious look in comparison to the crowded field of SUVs offered today. It provides quality German engineering, Autobahn handling and top safety scores.

Supervisor Matt Williams and PA ESGR State Chair Emeritus Wes Craig suBmitted pHoto

The Indian Valley Chamber of Commerce celebrated the career of Quakertown resident Terry Little who is retiring from her position as Administrative Assistant after 25 years.

Pictured (L-R): Terry Little; Steven Hunsberger, IVCC Executive Director; Chris Stanley, IVCC Office Manager; John Duerksen, IVCC Vice President. pHoto By micHele Buono

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

1 Luther Lane

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).

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

Sunday worship 10am (also watch live on our Facebook page), Tuesday 7pm Bible study and prayer. We offer an invitation to you. Come and worship with us.

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

Resources for the Homeless Sorely Lacking in Our Area

BY REV. DENISE FRY

Today, January 24, the Bucks County PIT (Point in Time) Count is being held to determine how many people in the county are living unsheltered lives. The count will be taken by area shelters and people who are in the field, and the number counted will still probably be under-reported. Unfortunately, the Bucks County Emergency Shelter is the only full-time shelter in the county with about 75 residents, a third of whom are children. The waiting list for the shelter may have 150 people or more on the list. There is also a Code Blue Shelter in Quakertown that's open on nights when the temperature is predicted to be 26° F or lower. They provide a hot meal for supper, a bed in a men’s room or a women’s room, and a breakfast before closing at 7:00 AM the next morning. There are no children allowed in this shelter. They can house up to 25 people at night.

The problem is that as of the 2022 PIT count, there were 427 people documented as sleeping

in emergency shelters, residing in transitional housing, or living outdoors. The figure was a 48% increase from the 2021 count-- and that number has surely risen significantly since then. When Pr. Dave Heckler, Chair of Advocates for the Homeless of Upper Bucks, recently asked how many students in the Quakertown School District were homeless, he was informed that there are currently 44 unsheltered children in the school district, with several more children expected to lose their housing shortly. When the Upper Perkiomen Ministerium met with the Upper Perkiomen School District in November, the school reported that they currently have 24 families struggling without shelter, and there are no local services for these families. The closest shelters for these families are in Allentown, Bethlehem, and in lower Bucks County at the Emergency Shelter.

Sometimes, people who are unsheltered may have friends or relatives that can house them for a time, and this is often referred to as

Representatives Staats, Labs Announce Grant for PFAS Removal

State Representative Craig Staats joined his colleague Rep. Shelby Labs (R-Plumstead), in announcing that the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) has approved a grant to extend public drinking water to homes that currently use wells contaminated by PFAS, a fire suppressant linked to cancer.The $3.6 million grant will help fund the cost of connecting 53 homes to water supplied by Perkasie Regional Authority.

The people of our community have not been forgotten. The cost of cleaning PFAS from drinking water is prohibitively expensive. It is a burden that should be carried by the governments that allowed its use. Staats is pleased the administration agreed and funded

this corrective measure.

The grant will address groundwater contamination issues caused during local fire extinguishing efforts and will improve fire protection with the installation of 10 new fire hydrants.

The funding originates from a combination of state funds approved by voters, Growing Greener, Marcellus Legacy funds, the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, federal grants to PENNVEST from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and recycled loan repayments from previous PENNVEST funding awards. Funds for these projects are disbursed after expenses for work are paid and receipts are submitted to PENNVEST for review.

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. Livestream: fb.com/pennridgechristianfellowship

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.

“couch surfing”. This becomes a way of life until they find their own housing or are living outside. Other people live in their cars or in encampments hidden away in a wooded area or behind a store that's open 24 hours a day for access to bathroom and other services at night. Along with the rising number of families with children who are unsheltered, there is also a growing number of elderly people whose fixed income didn’t rise fast enough to keep up with increased rent and inflation on food. As a pastor and the President of the Quakertown Ministerium, I struggle with knowing that I live and minister in an area where so many are struggling with adequate housing and living on the streets because they lost their homes.

Both the Quakertown and Upper Perkiomen Ministeriums are working on finding places that can safely house and help restore our unsheltered neighbors back into affordable housing. That means providing a stable place to live while people find better employment and look for a place to live. This is also a challenge because the housing market lacks enough affordable housing for lower income people to live. There are many obstacles to finding a location. The first is a place that is preferably donated for this purpose and easily renovated into a shelter, and the second is getting the community and local municipality

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 stacey@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

to agree to have them as their neighbors and on property zoned for another purpose. With the talk of a recession and the past year of inflation, chances are this problem will only increase in the coming years.

The church has just ended the season of Christmas. Often pastors and churches talk about Jesus housed with animals and being placed in a manger because no one in the inn or with local family was willing to house them. Jesus was born into homelessness. By the time the Magi visited, they found the child and his parents in a house, no longer homeless and living among the animals. Mary, Joseph and Jesus then fled to Egypt as refugees. Thanks to the gifts of strangers, they had the funds to afford housing once they got there. These gifts also allowed them the funds to support themselves while they were refugees in Egypt. As a snow and rain event are coming tomorrow and many will deal with this living in temporary/outdoor shelters, where is my part in this? Am I like the innkeeper or the family members who have no room for the unsheltered in my community? Or am I like the Magi, willing to sacrifice time and resources to give the gift of future shelter to others in need? rev deniSe fry iS PreSident of tHe QuaKertown miniSterium and Can be reaCHed at revfry@ComCaSt net

Advocates for the Homeless Needs Volunteers for Upcoming Season

Volunteers are needed to support the mission of the Advocates for the Homeless of Upper Bucks (AHUB). AHUB is a non-profit organization which serves the needs of the homeless of the Quakertown, Pennridge, and the Palisades areas. One program under AHUB is a volunteer staffed community ministry called Code Blue which provides shelter and a warm bed and meal to the homeless of Upper Bucks County on cold winter nights when the temperature is 26 degrees or below.

This homeless shelter is located at the Masonic Lodge in downtown Quakertown, PA. After a very successful nine years for the program, we hope to broaden our volunteer base for this upcoming winter. Opportunities include: Shelter Admissions staff, Overnight staff, Morning Aide, and more. Season runs

from November 15, 2022 to April 15, 2023. Please consider volunteering with AHUB. Contact us at ahubpa@gmail.com to learn about opportunities. You can also reach us at 267-410-0366, but e-mail is preferred.

AHUB will ensure COVID-19 protocols are in place at the shelter in order to provide a level of safety for both volunteers and guests. This will include regular disinfection of the shelter. About Code Blue Ministry: Code Blue Sheltering Ministry, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, officially opened in Quakertown on December 1, 2013 after three years of development and provides warm shelter, food, and respectful overnight care for homeless people in Upper Bucks County during times of life-threatening cold weather.

Craig Staats Sworn in for New Term in State House

On January 3, Rep. Craig Staats (R-Bucks) was sworn in to serve his fifth term as the state House representative of the people of the 145th District.

“It’s an honor to continue representing our community in Harrisburg,” Staats said. “Putting our community first and making Bucks a great place to live, work and raise a family has been my top priority.”

Since 2014, Staats has promoted job growth through the adoption of businessfriendly policies that attract job creators to the Commonwealth and help them to thrive and grow. He’s also supported efforts to ease the property tax burden on Pennsylvania citizens and to improve public education by focusing on greater control at the local level. Other legislative priorities include road and bridge improvements in upper Bucks County and the preservation of open space.

Staats’ district office is located at 10 S. Third Street in Quakertown and can be reached at 215-536-1434.

Country Music Star Chris Lane to Perform in Quakertown’s 2023 Sounds of Summer Concert Series

Multi-platinum country artist, Chris Lane joins the 2023 Sounds of Summer Concert Series presented by Sands Auto. Chris Lane will perform on Friday, July 7th, 2023, at the Univest Performance Center in Quakertown.

Launching into his next chapter, Lane continues to rise with over 1.4 billion ondemand streams and three No. 1s to date – platinum “Big, Big Plans,” three-time platinum “I Don’t Know About You,” and platinum “Fix.” After a spree of releases in 2021 and 2022, Lane’s catalog has expanded with hits like latest collaboration “Dancin’ in the Moonlight” with Lauren Alaina, “Howdy,” “Stop Coming Over,” ‘Summer Job Money,” “Ain’t Even Met You Yet,”

HIXTAPE: Vol. 2 smash “Small Town On It” with Scotty McCreery, and Dustin Lynch duet, “Tequila On A Boat.”

The Kernersville, North Carolina native, has appeared in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, as well as on TODAY, The Bachelor, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Late Night with Seth Meyers, and CONAN, and was featured in PEOPLE’s 2019 Sexiest Man Alive issue. He has also scored nominations at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, ACM Awards, and Radio Disney Music Award.

Tickets are available on QuakertownEvents.com now. Both reserved

seating and lawn tickets are available online. Tickets start at $35.00 for lawn seating and reserved seats range from $45.00 to $120.00 depending on the seat location.

The Sounds of Summer Concert Series presented by Sands Auto features a variety of artists from country, classic rock, pop, and more. Chris Lane will join the already announced Philadelphia rockers, The Hooter (August 25). More concerts are expected to be announced in the following weeks.

The Univest Performance Center continues to grow and become known as a must-attend outdoor concert venue for thousands of people. The Sounds of Summer Concert Series supports the Borough of Quakertown’s revitalization efforts by bringing not only our community together but bringing people from all over to our community’s hidden gem.

Our intimate and scenic venue offers exceptional views from every location, either in the general admission lawn area or in a reserved seat. The Univest Performance Center can comfortably accommodate 3,000 people while providing all essential amenities such as restrooms, concessions, local vendors, merchandise, plenty of parking, and is ADA compliant. From June to September, there is no better place to enjoy a summer concert than under the stars at the Univest Performance Center.

Vanderlely's Truck Sales and Service in Ottsville was destroyed by a fire in August 2021, but the determined family business rebuilt over the past 18 months. Family and friends gathered January 28 to see the ribbon cut as the doors were opened to the new facility. suBmitted pHoto

St. Luke’s Nurses Honor Guard Memorializes Nurses for Lives Spent in Service to Others

St. Luke’s is first in the Lehigh Valley to form a Nurse Honor Guard to recognize the men and women who dedicated their lives to nursing.

It’s like a 21-gun salute at a funeral – but to honor the quiet heroism of nurses.

Several years ago, Denise Snyder was touched by the stirring Nightingale Tribute performed at a fellow nursing colleague’s memorial service, who died after a long battle with breast cancer.

“I remember to this day how it resonated with me and its importance for any and all nurses to receive this beautiful service,” recalls Snyder, a nurse at St. Luke’s Carbon Campus. Inspired by that touching experience, she set out to develop the St. Luke’s Nurses Honor Guard to honor those who have dedicated their lives to the nursing profession and given so much to serve their community.

Among the services now offered free of charge by the St. Luke’s Nurses Honor Guard:

The Nightingale Tribute – Known as the “Lady with the Lamp,” Florence Nightingale saved many wounded soldiers during the Crimean War with her pioneering nursing work. In many ways, she laid the foundation for professional nursing. During the services, a member of the Honor Guard reads the Nightingale Pledge and a nursing sonnet, then places the rose while saying the nurse’s name and, “We honor you this day and give you a white rose to symbolize our honor and appreciation for being our nursing colleague.”

Honorary Pallbearers – The Honor Guard may be requested to attend the visitation and/or funeral services to serve as honorary pallbearers.

Casket Honor Guard – The Honor Guard may be posted at the head of the casket, standing silently to give their last respects.

Final Call to Duty – The Final Call to Duty

may be performed during the services or at the gravesite. During the Final Call to Duty, the Nightingale Lamp is lit in the nurse’s honor, and the nurse’s name is called out as a request to report to duty. After the third and final call, and with no response, the nurse is announced as retired and the lamp’s flame is extinguished.

“This is one of the greatest community services I have been involved with, and we are most honored that it has St. Luke's University Health Network representation,” Snyder says.

“It brings their career in nursing full circle. A career in nursing starts by the honor we receive at the time of our capping or pinning at our nursing school graduation. It stays with us throughout our nursing career until the end, when the honor guard performs the final call to duty, which is unanswered. They are then relieved of their nursing duty to rest in peace.”

Last April, Snyder launched the pilot with the support of Marjorie Federanich, St. Luke's Carbon Auxiliary President, and John Nespoli, President of the St. Luke’s University Health Network’s Lehighton and Carbon campuses.

“Being able to do this for our nurses has truly become a passion of mine,” Snyder said. And, as a result of that passion, the St. Luke’s University Health Network has become the first in the Lehigh Valley to offer the Honor Presentation at funerals or memorial services.

The program gained exposure and momentum. In June, St. Luke's Home Health and Hospice President Lisa Giovanni attended and was moved by the service. Giovanni and David Gibson, Vice President of Patient Care Services at the Lehighton and Miners campuses, encouraged Snyder to present about the Nurses Honor Guard during the September meeting of the Network Nursing Executive Council. The presentation was well received and the plan to move forward with networkwide participation was enacted and realized.

A goal of this program is to have a team of Nurses Honor Guard volunteers in place at each campus within the St. Luke’s University Health Network. The program has accomplished this with a chairperson at each of the 14 St. Luke’s campuses and 55 total volunteers across the network.

“This allows us to cover a very large area and give us availability and manpower to attend the funeral services of as many fallen colleagues as possible,” Snyder says. “Any nurse is eligible to receive the service

matter where they were employed. It is nurses honoring nurses.”

The St. Luke’s Nurses Honor Guard currently serves Lehigh, Luzerne, Northampton, Berks, Bucks, Carbon, Montgomery, Monroe and Schuylkill counties in Pennsylvania, and Warren and Hunterdon counties in New Jersey.

To arrange for a tribute by the St. Luke’s Nurses Honor Guard, please call 1-866-STLUKES (785-8537) Option 4, then Option 1, and leave a message or email