Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2014

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2014

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

January 4

January 9

January 18

“Reading Goes To The Dogs” 2pm-3:30pm.

Children of all ages are invited to come to the Quakertown Library & read to certified therapy dogs. Bucks Co Free Library, 401 W Mill St, Qtwn, 215-536-3306

Pork & Sauerkraut Dinner, 4:30pm-7pm (or sold out) at Lower Milford Twp Fire Co, 1601 Limeport Pike. $9/adult, $5/age 6-12, $9.50/ take-out

Fruit Trees (in the home garden) Seminar, 10am presented by Eastern Shore of VA Nursery. Free event, call Dublin Agway at 215-249-3117 to reserve a seat

January 10

January 20

After Christmas Party Social for Deaf & Hard of Hearing, 6:30pm-9pm at Indian Valley Library, 100 Church Rd, Telford. Call for details & RSVP by Jan 9 at 610-323-2365 or 215-721-7121

Blood Drive 9am-1pm at UBYMCA, 401 Fairview Ave, Quakertown. Donate blood and help to save three lives today. Details at 215-536-YMCA

Early Morning Bird Walk 8am-10am at Nature Ctr. Free, bring binoculars & field guide (if you have them), more details at 215357-4005 or churchvillenaturecenter.org Kids Nature & Winter Program 10am11:30am (for ages 6-12), $8/child, pre-regis. required at 215-357-4005, churchvillenaturecenter.org

January 4 & 5

(also Jan 11 & 12)

Annual Keystone N-Trak Model Railroad Club Open House, 11am-4pm at Dublin TEC Ctr, Suite 216, 123 N Main St (Rt 313), Dublin. Public is invited to attend

January 11 AAUW Annual Potluck Luncheon at Doylestown Methodist, 320 E Swamp Rd, Doylestown. Speaker Dr. Bridget Nolan’s analysis of the “terrorism center culture”, 215-340-7604

January 5

January 12

Breakfast 8am-1pm at Springtown Fire Co, 3010 Rt 212, Springtown. $7/adult, $4/age 6-10, free 5 & under

“Second Sunday” Breakfast 8am-1pm at Lower Milford Fire Co, 1601 Limeport Pike, $8/adult, $4/age 3-12. (Military, Firemen/ women, Fire Police, EMT, Police, please ask for your $1 discount)

“Birds at Your Feeder” nature program, 2pm, $3/person. Info 215-357-4005, churchvillenaturecenter.org

January 7 Horse Racing 12:30pm at Upper Bucks Activity Ctr, Milford Twp Fire Hall, 2183 Milford Sq. Pike, Quakertown, ($1/horse per race) 215-536-3066 Winter Naturalist Walks 1:30pm at Nature Ctr. Free, warm up afterwards by our fire.

Doylestown. Info at 215-345-7860 and peacevalleynaturecenter.org, (also Jan 14, 21, & 28)

January 13 Bingo 7pm (doors open 5:30pm) at UB Activity Ctr Milford Fire Hall, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Qtwn, 215-536-3066

January 14 Citizens for Constitutional Govt meeting, 6:30pm at Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St, Qtwn. Presentation “Stop Smart Meters” (free, open to public), info at http://ccg-pa.org

January 8

January 17

New Year’s Party w/Paul Swanger, 11:30pm at UB Activity Ctr, Milford Fire Hall, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Qtwn. Sign up by Jan 6 ($12/ person) at 215-536-3066

Friday Night Dance w/Gary Dee, 7pm10pm, $10/person payable at door. UB Activity Ctr, Milford Fire Hall, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown, 215-536-3066

Hospital CEO Addresses AAUW Chapter

January 24 Dementia Workshop 9am-10:30am, Hidden Meadows on the Ridge, 340 Farmers Ln, Sellersville. (tips to help w/family conversations), Free event & complimentary breakfast.

RSVP by Jan 21 at 215-257-6701

January 26 All-U-Can-Eat Breakfast 8am-12noon at Haycock Fire Co, 850 Old Bethlehem Rd, Quakertown. $7/adult, $4/age 4-7, free under 4. Info: 215-536-2224 or haycockfire.org

At a recent American Association of University Women (AAUW) Doylestown Branch meeting, Jim Brexler, the new CEO and President of Doylestown Hospital, spoke about future plans for the hospital. In his very informative talk he covered both traditional and new approaches to giving the best possible care to the patient and the community. We wish him great success in achieving these goals. submitted photo

January 30 Spaghetti Dinner 4:30pm-7pm (or sold out) at Lower Milford Twp Fire Co, 1601 Limeport Pike. $8/adult, $5/age 6-12, $8.50/take-out.

Salad Bar & Dessert included

February 8 5th Annual Bark & Wine at K9 Jym in Colmar, dinner/music/wine tasting/dog activities/vendors/silent auction, etc. $20/adv tkt, $25/door, 267-587-7364, (snow date Feb 22), perkasiedogpark@gmail.com

February 9 16th Annual Daddy/Daughter Valentine’s Dance for girls 4-10 years. 1pm-3pm.

Registration by Jan 27 or sold out. Details/ prices at 215-538-YMCA, ubymca.org (Quakertown)

Think Local.

Buy Local.

Be Local.

Ongoing Community Activities Bingo 12:15pm at UB Activity Ctr, Milford Twp Fire Hall, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown, 215-536-3066.

Jan 2 ($50 Jackpot), also Jan 9, 16, 23, & 30 Lottery Calendar Sale, $20/donation benefits T’ville Fire Co, daily drawings of PA Lottery from 1/1 to 6/30 can win $20 to $200/ day. Info: jason.gerhart@comcast.netAll Veterans invited to join Forrest Lodge VFW, 2118 Old Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville. Call Frank 215-679-7770 PetSmart Adoption Day is 2nd Saturday each month, 11am-3pm, PetSmart, 620 N.West Blvd, Quakertown, 215-538-2843 Last Chance Ranch Volunteer Orientation, 1st Saturday each month, 10am-11am in front of Horse Barn, 9 Beck Rd, Quakertown, 215-538-2510 lastchanceranch.org Singles Connection for adults meets Thursdays for social evening, 7pm at Silverdale Brethren in Christ Church, 165 W. Main St, Silverdale. 215-593-9995 or email carolonline1@verizon.net Doylestown Singles Soc. Intermediate Bridge Club meets every Tues. 7pm at a private residence in Doylestown. Info at 215340-7604 or shalstrick@comcast.net

Upper Bucks Clinic, free medical care Mon & Wed 5:30pm-8:30pm to uninsured low-income residents of Upper Bucks Co w/no medical insurance & meet income eligibility guidelines.

Info: 215-538-4774

Business Networking International (BNI) meets every Thursday 7am-8:30am at John’s Plain & Fancy Restaurant in Quakertown, membership info: James Dodson – jamescovie@yahoo.com

Alzheimer’s Assoc. Support Group, 3:30pm5:00pm, meets 2nd Thursday every month, Phoebe Richland Health Care Ctr, 108 S. Main St, Richlandtown. Free, more info: Social Services 267-371-4517

Free Community Dinner third Wed. of month. 5:30pm-6:30pm, Christ Community Bible Church, 1830 N. Ridge Rd, Perkasie, 215-257-7318

Support Groups & Medical Resources

Doylestown Nar-Anon meets Wednesdays 6pm at Summit Behavioral Health, 702 Hyde Park, Doylestown. Call 215-589-7111 for directions and info.

Sisters U Monthly Meetings 7pm-9pm the third Thurs every month at Stella’s, 200 N Main St, Sellersville, info: stef@sistersu.com SOS Bereavement After Suicide – Family Support Group meets @ St. Luke’s Quakertown Hospital twice monthly, info/details call 215-536-5143 Brain Injury Family/Spousal/Partner Support Group 6pm-8pm the third Monday every month at First UCC, Church Parlor, 4th & Park Ave, Quakertown, 215-538-3488 or 610-558-1326 Bikers Against Child Abuse of Bucks County meets 11am the second Sunday every month at Hilltown German Sportsmen’s Club, 1622 Hilltown Pike, Hilltown. For info, email: Teaseofbaca@aol.com Caregiver Support Group meetings last Thurs. of every month, Independence Court of Quakertown, 1660 Park Ave, (meal provided), RSVP: 215-541-9030 to attend a meeting.

NOVA (Network Of Victim Assistance) Support Groups, Information, Guidance, Hotline 800-675-6900 www.NOVABucks.org Overeaters Anonymous meets every Thursday 10am-11am, West Swamp Mennonite Church, 2501 Allentown Rd, Quakertown, No dues, free babysitting. www.oa.org or Bob 610-762-3779 Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Sunday at 7pm, Grand View Hosp. info at 215-923-7900 Bedminster Nar-Anon meets Tuesdays 7:30pm-8:30pm, Deep Run West Mennonite, 1008 Deep Run Rd, Perkasie, for family/ friends of those struggling w/addiction, bedminster.naranon@yahoo.com

A Woman’s Place (support for domestic abuse/ violence) 24-hour Hotline 1-800-220-8116, www.awomansplace.org Kiwanis meetings 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of each month, 12:30pm at Dominick’s Pizza, Quakertown Quakertown Rotary Club meets (1st & 3rd Tues 7:30am at John’s Plain & Fancy Restaurant) (2nd, 4th, & 5th Tues 6pm at Spinnerstown Hotel)

Networking & Civic Groups Kiwanis meetings 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of each month, 12:30pm at Dominick’s Pizza, Quakertown Quakertown Rotary Club meets (1st & 3rd Tues 7:30am at John’s Plain & Fancy Restaurant) (2nd, 4th, & 5th Tues 6pm at Spinnerstown Hotel)

Community Meals

Free Community Meals 6pm at Richland Friends Quaker Meeting on second, fourth & fifth Weds. every month. Mill Rd & Main St off Route 309, Qtwn, 215-536-0395 Community Meal-every third Thursday of the month, 5:30pm-6:30pm, First UCC, 4th & Park, Qtwn, 215-536-4447 Free Community Dinner third Mon. of month, 5:30pm-6:30pm, Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie, 215-249-3689. Call before 3pm w/questions of transportation needs.

Bingo Bingo at Richland Twp Fire & Rescue every Tues. doors open 5:30pm, 64 Shelly Rd,

Qtwn. 215-536-7226 Bingo at Great Swamp Fish & Game every Sat. night, open 4pm, games 6:30pm, kitchen open. Free coffee, 2650 Schukraft & Camp Rock Hill Rd, Qtwn, 215-536-8820 Bingo at Plumsteadville Fire Co. every Monday, opens 5:30pm, games 6:30pm (refreshments avail.) 5064 Stump Rd, 215-766-8250 Bingo at Sellersville Fire Co. every Thurs. (except July) opens 5:30pm, 2 N. Main St, 215-257-4028 Bingo at Tylersport Fire Co. every Tues. opens 5pm, games 6:40pm, 125 Ridge Rd, 215-257-5900 Bingo at UB Senior Ctr first Thurs. every month, $50 Jackpot! 12:15pm-3pm, 2183 Milford Sq. Pike, 215-536-3066 Bingo at Red Hill Fire Co Social Hall 3rd Sunday every month, opens 12noon, games 1pm-4pm, 82 E 5th St, Red Hill Cash Bingo at Green Lane Fire Co every Wed., Main St, Green Lane, opens 5:30pm, games 6:40pm, 215-234-8567

January 2014 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

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Where Can I Get my Free Press?

PERKASIE

QUAKERTOWN Aamco A-Plus Mini Market Borough Hall Bottom Dollar Foods Beer City Brick’s Sales Classic Staffing Chick Fil-A Dominick’s Pizza Downtown Dogs Earl Bowl Lanes Embers Cafe First Niagara Bank First Savings Bank Flashpoint Acupuncture Frank’s Pizza The Free Press Bldg.

Giant (Qtwn Plaza) The Grundy House Hampton Inn Holiday Inn Independence Court James Michener Library John’s Plain & Fancy Liberty Thrift Store McCoole’s Restaurant McDonalds Melody Lakes Moyer’s Shoes Pep Boys Philly Soft Pretzel Factory

Quaker Cleaners Quakertown Family Restaurant QNB Bank Quaker Cleaners Redner’s Market Roma Pizza Sal’s Pizza Randa Seven-Eleven Sine’s 5 & 10 Spinnerstown Hotel St. Luke’s Hospital Swann’s Pantry Tom’s Help Desk Upper Bucks Sr. Ctr Upper Bucks SPCA Upper Bucks YMCA Upper Bucks Chamber Wells Fargo Bank Yum Yum Donuts TRUMBAUERSVILLE Borough Hall Fino’s La Cantina Spor’s General Store SELLERSVILLE A & N Diner Grandview Hospital Hidden Meadows Roy Ann Diner Suelke’s Roadstand Village Market

Rep. Paul Clymer’s Office Dam Good Cafe Emil’s Diner Giant Food Markets Landis Food Markets Mirage Hair Salon Olde Towne Convenience Pennridge Chamber Pierce Library QNB Bank Revivals Restaurant TELFORD Grundy Manor Indian Valley Library Landis Supermarket Lisa’s Pizza SOUDERTON Care & Share Shoppes Generations Main Street Java Mr. B’s at Calvary Church QNB Bank Vincent’s Pizza COOPERSBURG Coopersburg Diner Giant Food Markets The Inside Scoop QNB Bank Turkey Hill Market Weis Markets SILVERDALE Green St. Barber Shop HARLEYSVILLE Landis Supermarket Also available at some local post offices and lots of other high traffic locations.

Have a suggestion for a place you’d like to see the Free Press? E-mail terri@ubfp.org.

Have something you’d like to share with your community? Send us the details! info@ubfp.org • fax: 215-839-3421 • 312 W. Broad St. Quakertown

Actors, Others Wanted for Coming Production

Crowded Kitchen Players will hold auditions for “In the Land of Lost Content”, a stage adaptation of A.E. Housman’s ‘A Shropshire Lad’ on Wednesday January 8th from 7 to 8:30 PM at McCoole’s Arts and Events Place, 10 S. Main St. Quakertown, PA. Set in 1896 on the Welsh-English border, “In the Land of Lost Content” will run March 21st – April 6th at McCoole’s. Needed: men and women

ages 20 and older - saucy maids and sturdy yeomen. All roles are speaking roles. Strong pub singers are also needed. Actors will do cold readings from the script. Singers will be asked to sing a capella. All roles are open.

Also needed are a stage manager, set builders and box office volunteers. For more info or directions, please call 610-395-7176, email ckplayers@rcn.com or visit ckplayers.com

January, a month of empty pockets! Let us endure this evil month, anxious as a theatrical producer’s forehead.

- Sidonie Gabrielle Colette

Quakertown Borough Receives Grants from DCED, DCNR for New Park Project Quakertown Borough officials announced that it has received two grants from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in support of its new Park Project located at 4th and Mill Streets.

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Community Conservation Partnerships Program announced a $250,000 grant for the development of the former Krupp industrial site, including the construction of the amphitheater and trail. State Senator Bob Mensch played a critical role in helping the borough obtain the funding.

The Department of Community and Economic Development awarded the project a $225,000 grant from funds that were part of the $28.6 million made available over the past two years to fund six Marcellus Legacy Fund programs administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority. More than $16 million in funding was awarded throughout the state to support 116 greenways, trails and recreation projects.

These two grants combined with the funds already raised for the project through other grants, sponsorships, and donations equal

more than half of the $2 million cost to build the park.

“We are thrilled to receive these two state grants which are key to the park’s construction,” said Cathy Gillahan, Park Development Steering Committee Co-chair. “We are looking forward to beginning the bidding process for the construction of the amphitheater in early 2014.”

The 12-acre passive recreation community park will connect the Quakertown Memorial Park and the Sports Complex, the James A. Michener Branch of the Bucks County Library, and the Quakertown Community Pool.

It will feature walking and biking trails, an amphitheater, concession stand, gazebo, restrooms, flower meadows, a water feature with fountain as well as open areas for picnicking, playing and relaxing.

This community asset to the more than 36,500 residents of the Quakertown Regional Area (including Richland, Haycock, and Milford Townships and Quakertown, Trumbauersville, and Richlandtown Boroughs) will regularly hold public events, live music, entertainment, arts events and more each season.

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2014

My Personal Experience With Obamacare

Five Tips to Avoid Cancer in 2014

A diagnosis of cancer is something you hope never to receive. While you cannot change your genetics, there are steps you can take starting today that may make a big difference in facing the disease. Fox Chase Cancer Center and Grand View Hospital offer some key advice about cancer screening and healthy lifestyle habits to help reduce your cancer risk. In 2014, make it your New Year’s resolution to fight cancer proactively.

Here are some tips: Get regular cancer screenings.

Screening tests are available for various types of cancers, such as breast, colorectal, prostate, and cervical cancers. Having regular screenings may improve your chances of discovering cancer at its earliest stages, when it may be treated more effectively.

“It is important to talk with your doctor about cancer screening, when you should begin screening and how often these tests should be repeated,” says Mark L. Sobczak, MD, Chief Network Officer at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia.

Avoid smoking or using tobacco.

Smoking cigarettes is linked to an increased risk of developing many types of cancers, including bladder, cervical, esophageal, kidney, lung, oral, pancreatic, and stomach cancers.

Quitting smoking, or not starting the habit at all, is one of the best thing you can do to help prevent cancer, no matter your age and even if you have smoked for years. In addition, the use of other tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco, has been linked to an increased risk of oral and pancreatic cancers.

Even if you don’t smoke, being around those who do may increase your cancer risk through exposure to secondhand smoke.

“A family history of cancer can increase your risk of developing cancer and is an area you are unable to control,” said Howard S. Zipin, MD, medical director of the Grand View Regional Cancer Program, Grand View Hospital. “However, early detection with reg-

ular cancer screenings in addition to cancer prevention techniques such as sun avoidance and smoking cessation can decrease the controllable cancer risks.”

Make healthy foods a part of your everyday diet.

Maintaining a balanced diet, complete with plenty of fruits and vegetables as well as whole grains and beans, may help to ward off cancer. Limit your intake of red meats and high-fat foods. And if you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Recent studies have shown that eating healthy costs less than two dollars a day more and has the potential for long term savings in healthcare costs.

Exercise regularly.

Research has shown that individuals who lead a physically active lifestyle have a lower risk of certain cancers than those who are sedentary. Such types of cancers include colorectal cancer, postmenopausal breast cancer, and endometrial cancer. Exercising and eating right also help you maintain a healthy weight.

This is important as obesity may increase your cancer risk.

Aim to fit about 30 minutes of exercise into your daily routine. Find something you enjoy, whether it’s taking a brisk walk, playing a sport, riding your bike, or joining a fitness class.

Protect your skin from the sun.

Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays may lead to skin cancer. Even in winter, the sun’s UV rays can do damage to your skin. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 or higher every day. Limit sun exposure between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Wear sunglasses with 99-100 percent UV absorption to protect your eyes and surrounding skin. Avoid other sources of UV light, such as tanning beds and sun lamps.

Learn more about cancer risk and resources at Fox Chase Cancer Center and Grand View Hospital by visiting www.foxchase.org and www.gvh.org.

I wrote an article entitled Health Care 2010 appearing in the Upper Bucks Free Press and in another periodical within Bucks County. In addition, I penned an op-ed in November 2010 published in a local daily newspaper. The primary purpose of the article and op-ed was to discard the political discourse and wrangling so as to get to the meat of the subject matter.

At that time, and even now, people express displeasure or support for Obamacare without intelligently tackling specific points of the law. Obamacare is the term coined in reference to the Patient Protection and Affordable are Act (PPACA) along with the Health Care and Reconciliation Act of 2010. These two pieces of legislation were passed by the U.S. Congress and U.S. Senate in March 2010.

Summary details can be found in my article or Wikipedia provides extensive information along with links to the actual bills for your examination.

I wanted to find out firsthand what the process entailed to enter the application system, navigate through the hurdles, possibly obtain health insurance, and tell you what it is all about.

The first company I worked for in the Washington, D.C. area after graduating college in 1980 provided health insurance. The premium they paid was $50 a month for Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Major Medical, with vision and dental riders. The annual total was $600. That same coverage for the top shelf plan is around $25,000 per year. There are three elected township officials in Upper Bucks putting in less than twelve clock hours per year in municipal meetings and freeload on the taxpayers’ dime. To cover these Three Amigos and their families for health insurance is around $75,000 a year. They did not have the $100,000 to cover the shortfall for the recycling program, so they shifted that cost onto the taxpaying residents. However, they found $75,000 to pay for their health insurance. In the 1990’s they assessed an annual tax increase to start and operate the recycling program each year. The program was discontinued, but the tax was not rescinded.

My current health insurance since 2006 is an Aetna PPO plan. The monthly premium is $498 totaling $5976 per year. The annual deductible is $5,000. I was required to spend out of pocket $10,976 plus office visit copays of $40 to my family doctor and $50 to a specialist. This plan covered almost nothing due to the high deductible and restrictive stipulations. Along the way, Aetna was great at giving me a hard time by denying anything being done beyond a visit to my family doctor and getting bloodwork done.

With Obamacare sign-ups available on October 1, 2013, I wanted to see what it was all about. Anticipating millions of citizens logging online, I waited until the evening of October 3 to do the same. The system was very slow. Knowing that more people were on later in the day, I logged on around 6 a.m. on October 4 and completed the application process. With millions of people trying to get on the website, glitches in the system, and crashing it took until the end of November to have enhancements installed to correct the problems.

On November 16, I logged on again and completed the application.

The website directed me to a toll-free number for a verification process. The representative provided me with an address in London, Kentucky to mail a copy of my driver’s license with a short written explanation. I followed up by phone on December 2, 14, and 22 to see if my verification had been completed. On the first two dates, my application was present, but the verification was not complete.

On December 22, this became my most significant discovery of the Obamacare system.

That evening, I was on hold for almost two hours waiting for a representative to take my call. Again, calling in the evening you can bet the entire United States is awake and everyone wanting new health insurance is online or on the telephone. The representative was unable to locate my application utilizing any information I provided. I asked to speak with

a supervisor and was promptly transferred.

This lady supervisor empathized with my concern and disgust. She, too, was unable to bring up my application or any information on my verification.

However, she did have a remedy. The supervisor took my verbal application by telephone and completed the verification process.

I had applied, been verified, and could now enroll into any of the 24 Blue Shield or Aetna plans in the Pennsylvania Health Insurance Marketplace. The monthly premium ranged from $415 to almost $760 per month. I selected the Blue Shield Personal Choice PPO Platinum Plan at $759.76 per month. In addition, I added a monthly Delta Dental Plan at $21.16.

My old Aetna PPO medical plan had an annual out-of-pocket expense of $10, 976, covering almost nothing and giving me plenty of aggravation. My new Blue Shield medical plan starting January 1, 2014 is $9,117.12, not including the dental rider. I am saving $1,858.88 per year. In addition, there are no deductibles, only applicable visit co-pays and co-insurance. Plus it includes vision and prescription provisions. Overall, I am paying less and getting more.

Here are some guidelines to use to correctly and efficiently obtain new health insurance or at least find what you can get at a particular cost: • Call 1-800-318-2596 and apply by phone with a representative. Your confirmation and verification to enroll is determined at that time. Do not apply on the website.

• Call in the early morning before 9 a.m.

Any later, you will be competing with the rest of the country and it is a guarantee you will be waiting.

• Ask to have any contact done with you via U.S. mail, not email. I originally asked for email notification and did not receive any.

Mail takes about one week.

• Pennsylvania Health Insurance Marketplace has Blue Shield and Aetna plans only. You may wish to check out those websites to see what they have for HSA. HMO, and PPO plans.

• Your own monthly health insurance premium is determined ONLY by your current age, whether or not you are a smoker, and income. If your annual income is above their scale to qualify for a subsidy, then you will pay whatever the rate will be for you. Just tell the representative your income is above the scale and you do not want a subsidy. If you qualify for a subsidy based on a lower income, the representative will assist you with this process.

• This new Obamacare system (by telephone or website) does not make up or sell health insurance plans. This system is a computerized clearinghouse to streamline your quest to obtain health insurance based upon THREE FACTORS: age, smoking, and income (your need for a subsidy or not).

• The health insurance plans available are the same exact plans available as if you were to apply direct to Blue Shield or Aetna. The difference is by going through the Obamacare clearinghouse only THREE FACTORS apply. If you apply direct to Blue Shield or Aetna, you are subjected to a constellation of medical-related queries and are basically put through a mental meat grinder to get insurance and be rated on your health.

If you are covered by a health insurance plan, not covered, dislike your present plan, or are curious what you could be eligible for, find out for yourself. Pick up the telephone early any morning, speak to a representative at the aforementioned number, and apply for new health insurance. You can apply and choose whether or not to enroll.

Don’t waste your time listening to or following the talking heads. Do your own research.

Mr. Murphy has had a bilateral mild-tomoderate sensor-ineural hearing loss all his life and is a binaural in-the-canal hearing aid user. Mr. Murphy has been in practice in Pennsylvania since receiving his Master of Education in Audiology from University of Virginia in the Spring of 1987. Mr. Murphy is affiliated with a number of hearing related national and international organizations. He can be reached at hearingdoc@aol.com and by phone at 215-804-1111.

January 2014 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

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Quakertown Art Gallery, Frame Shop Relocating The Art Nouveau Gallery in downtown Quakertown, which opened this past June at 200 Apple Street, is planning a move to 93 S.West End Boulevard in Quakertown.

Joanne’s Frame Shop, which currently operates inside the gallery, is also relocating to the new address.

According to gallery owner, Jack Lopez, the move is necessary to accommodate larger parking needs, flexibility of exhibit space, and better visibility and accessibility for both the gallery and the frame shop.

Says Lopez, “The space we occupy now has served us well and we are glad to have had the opportunity to use that space.”

The area Art Nouveau currently occupies is located in the Apple Professional Building

which hosts a family physician group and various other medical and mental health firms.

Both Art Nouveau Gallery and Joanne’s Frame Shop expect to be up and running in their new location by February. According to Lopez, “The weather plays a big role in this, and so far it hasn’t really been cooperating.”

The gallery and shop will be joining several other locally owned businesses in the center which include You’ve Got Maids, Embers Cafe, Minuteman Press, Visionetics, Quakertown Chiropractic, and the Pennsylvania Massage Institute.

Art Nouveau can be reached at 267-2451876 and by email at lopeznuvo@yahoo.com.

Joanne’s Frame Shop can be reached at 267629-0653 and joannesframes@gmail.com

Outsiders Want to Learn from QCSD’s 21st Century Initiatives by erica stein

Dr. Lisa Andrejko, QCSD Superintendent, was named to the Top 40 Innovators in Education in the 2013 Yearbook for Education Technology in Review, a report published by the Center for Digital Education. She has also been speaking to policy makers and legislators at the state and national level, sharing the ways in which QCSD’s initiatives are giving Quakertown students opportunities that people in other districts envy.

“QCSD has become the gold standard,” she said. “Wherever I go people have heard about the QCSD technology initiatives and are eager to learn how they too can implement our practices.”

The magazine notes on the cover that technology itself does not transform learning. It is an aid and tool to effective and creative instruction that only come from dedicated instructors who strive for innovation.

“Our teachers and administrators have worked hard to implement our initiatives over the last 6 years,” Dr. Andrejko said. “It has become so much a part of our expectations for teachers and students to learn in new and rigorous ways that they don’t realize what we have here, until they go outside the district and see that others are not reaping the same benefits.

Many of our graduates have gone on to colleges where they make the deans’ lists and take on professional internships in their freshmen years. Students who meet their teachers’ challenges are well prepared for their futures.”

The innovations, of course, include the QCSD cyber and blended learning programs, which won the iNACOL’s Innovative Online Learning Practice award. QCSD Kindergarteners learn with a 1:1 iPad initiative. Students in grades 9-12 also have 1:1 laptops, which give them the opportunity to learn 24/7. The goal of all technology as a tool is to meet the diverse needs of students and to prepare them for college and careers.

The magazine notes, “Dr. Andrejko was named a 2013 Tech Savvy Superintendent by eSchool News, and authored an article for the America Association of School Administrator’s journal School Administrator, outlining how QCSD Cyber was developed and implemented. QCSD was also featured as a Technology Showcase District by the Alliance for Excellent Education as part of Digital Learning Day. Despite all of this recognition, Dr. Andrejko’s greatest achievement has been the improvement to teaching and learning in her school district.

Students are scoring higher on student achievement testing, college readiness exams and AP exams. And more students are going to college and being accepted into top-tier schools. In addition, the dropout rate has decreased by 10 percent over the past 4 years.”

“I have been so fortunate to be surrounded by a team of dedicated education professionals. I share any recognition I receive with my colleagues who work tirelessly for our students. My job is to create the conditions so they succeed.”

Many cultures believe that objects in the shape of a ring are good luck as they symbolize ‘coming full circle,’ completing a year’s cycle. Example: the Dutch believe that eating donuts on New Year’s Day will bring good fortune... and who are we to argue with the Dutch?

Vera Bradley Bingo to Benefit Relay for Life by barbara hafler

Quakertown Community High School junior Amanda Hafler spent a good deal of her Christmas break organizing a brand new collection of Vera Bradley bags. But the popular fabric bags aren’t for her personal collection.

Hafler has been busy making preparations for The 2nd Annual Vera Bradley Bingo, a fundraiser to benefit The Upper Bucks Relay for Life, a program of the American Cancer Society. “Last year’s event was tremendously successful!,” says Hafler, a four-year team captain and a three-year member of the Planning Committee of the Upper Bucks Relay for Life. “I really learned a lot from my first experience leading such a large event and have made some improvements for the 2014 event. A big difference will be the number of tickets available, which will be limited to just 175.”

Scheduled for Sunday, March 9, 2014, 1:00 p.m., at The Milford Township Fire Hall, the event boasts a variety of the colorful and popular fabric bags, valued at nearly $2,000. An added bonus is the involvement of The Upper Bucks Senior Activity Center, housed in The Milford Township Fire Hall.

Director Sara Kelly and members of the Senior Center will offer the food concessions on the day of the event as a fundraiser for their programming. “I’m so happy that once again, the Senior Center is allowing us the use of their facility. Not only will this event benefit Relay for Life, but it will also help out the senior citizens of our community,” says Hafler. In addition, members of the National Honor Society of Quakertown Community High School will assist, providing these highachieving students with the opportunity of community service hours, a requirement of membership.

The 2nd Annual Vera Bradley Bingo to Benefit the Upper Bucks Relay for Life offers 20 games of bingo, raffles, a Chinese auction, and door prizes. Each bingo game will feature a different Vera Bradley bag.

Even “tie” prizes are Vera Bradley products! Doors open at 11:30 a.m. and lunch will be available. Advance tickets are $20.

For more information, or to get tickets, call 215.538.7817 or email relayvbbingo@gmail. com. To see all of the prizes, like us on Facebook: The 2nd Annual Vera Bradley Bingo to Benefit the Upper Bucks Relay for Life.

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2014

Nieces and Nephews

A Friend’s Concern Did you know that in March of 1703, James Logan, William Penn’s personal secretary and his pre-eminent representative in Philadelphia, finally decided to lay claim in the name of the Proprietor (Penn), to land in the Great Swamp of Upper Bucks County?

He sent surveyors Thomas Fairman and David Powell to the remote, northern reaches of the county “to lay out either in one or two tracts, as it shall best suit the place, 10,000 acres of good land under certain bounds and certain marked lines and courses, for the Proprietary.” The 16,000+ acres that the men ultimately marked extended from Main St. in Quakertown west to what is now the Montgomery County line. It was called the “Manor of Richland.”

Fairman and Powell met with the local Lenni Lenape leaders under a Great White Oak Tree where they “were accustomed to sit and fashion their crude implements.” The tree stood near the center of the Great Swamp on land that is now occupied by the Richland Friends Meetinghouse. The surveyors explained to the Native that their lives were about to change forever. At the same time, at Logan’s request, 2,500 acres were surveyed to Griffith Jones of Philadelphia, confirming his personal claim of 1701. Logan, and several other colonial ‘potentates,’ each had several thousand acres deeded to themselves. But, who cares? Does it matter to us today?

Did you know that, in the early summer of 1708, a Welshman named Abraham Griffith dragged his wife and baby from the relatively comfortable and developed area of Byberry (now in N.E. Philadelphia), through wilderness country, up over a rocky ridge and into an almost uninhabited (by Europeans), wet, brushy basin called the Great Swamp? Griffith and his wife, Hannah Lester, then settled on “Griffith Jones’ Bog,” along what we now call Morgan Creek. Their property was between Old Bethlehem Pike and Rte 309. After purchasing his ‘plantation’ of 600 acres and relocating to it, Griffith found himself with little money, no house, no neighbors and a plot of springy marsh and brush filled woods to clear and convert into a farm.

The first thing he worked on was a house.

He leaned a homemade ladder against a big oak tree, cut the bark around the tree as far up as he could reach, and then sliced it vertically to the ground. With wooden wedges and a mallet, he pealed the bark off the tree in a big sheet, laid it on the ground, flattened it out and held it in position with rocks. In a few days the bark had dried and become like a sheet of plywood. He repeated the process innumerable times until he had enough ‘boards’ to begin.

Along the creek, Griffith found a large leaning rock. He cleaned debris out from under it, tamped the ground flat and hard and began constructing a house. He used the rock as one of the walls with part of the living space under its leaning section. Within a few weeks a primitive, yet functional dwelling was completed, and he could begin working on his farm. Have you ever heard of Abraham Griffith and Hannah Lester, the first documented residents of Upper Bucks County? Does it matter? They are long dead now. So who really cares?

Did you know that Susanna Heath Morris lived on Broad St. across from 11th Street in Quakertown until her death in 1754? The internationally-renowned Quaker minister was recognized and a prophet and a seer across America and Europe. She was an advocate for abstinence from the use of tobacco and alcohol and was an avid proponent for women’s rights.

She survived three shipwrecks, including one off the coast of Ireland, which she foretold, having witnessed it beforehand in dreams. One of the very few local, colonial women still remembered, several books have been written in which she is a major character. Have you read them? Have you even heard of her?

Susanna’s husband, Morris Morris, rose from humble beginnings. He served in the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly for many years and was one of the largest property owners in Richland. The western half of Quakertown was build on property once owned by Morris.

The grounds on which the Quaker Meetinghouse stands was donated to the Society of Friends by Morris in 1725. Have you ever heard of this man? Does it matter in our lives today, even if you are one of the few remaining Quakers in Quakertown?

Do you know that Richard Moore’s house still stands on South Main Street at Moore Court? A schoolteacher, then the owner of a famous pottery, Moore ran an Underground Railroad station. Between the 1830’s and 1860’s, well over 600 escaped slaves achieved freedom with his help. Richard Moore was a pillar of the community when the Borough of Quakertown was incorporated in 1854. Have you seen examples of the Redware pottery he produced? They have some on display at the Foulke House. Do you know which house it is that the frightened fugitives were looking for when they sneaked into Quakertown at night?

Some of you pass it everyday. But then, slavery is ancient history. Who cares about that stuff now?

Quakertown’s history runs deep. For almost 300 years, it has been the most important community in Upper Bucks County. Tens of thousands of people now live in what was once called the Great Swamp. But, most people living here don’t remember even as far back as the cigar and garment industry era. Some are awed by the fact that Sine’s 5 & 10 has been in business for over a hundred years, or that Moyer’s Shoes has been on Broad Street for over sixty. But, they have no clue or interest in just how far back our roots do go. Why should they? What significance can it possibly have to us today?

The local Chamber of Commerce and Historical Society think we should work toward establishing Quakertown as a Destination Historic District? But, will it really attract tourists to town and maybe help bolster our economy? Or, will an effort to uncover and tout our roots by putting up historic markers, bragging about the lives of Richard Moore and Susanna Morris, discussing the tribulations of Hannah Griffith in her tree bark house, publicizing the Richland Library (one of the oldest in Bucks County), be a waste of money and time? I guess, only the passing of time will tell.

Read more writings by Jack Schick at Searchwarp.com and Soulofwit.com

I wrote this message after just coming home from a Thanksgiving get-together where my wife and I shared desserts at my sister’s home.

My wife and I have no children, but over the years we have raised wonderful pets that my wife has trained to be outstanding “good citizens” including our current German Shepherd mix named Abby. Getting to the topic of nieces and nephews, I wish to devote this column to write of a typical proud Uncle giving examples of how, despite many political changes since the 60’s, our American Dream is still alive for those who earnestly want to pursue it! My nieces and nephews (and their children) that I heard as toddlers and babies on tapes sent to me overseas in the Army in 1965-66 are such examples.

As I sat with my grand-nephews and nieces for that brief two hours on Thanksgiving, hearing about their adventures of typical brothers and sisters tete-a-tetes, it reminded me of similar times past when I too had such adventures.

My experiences were with these young folks Grandmother and her brother’s back in the late 40’s and early 50’s. These teens of today also related on their current pursuits in future careers and goals.

Once again as a proud Uncle I wish to share these wonderful informative moments with them. I wish to relate their stories to you so you too can encourage young people of this period to “follow their dreams!” It still can be achieved here in this Great Country by those who strive to make it happen. My immediate nephews present at the dinner were Clarke and Bruce Rupert (toddlers on my Army tapes) who were successful in their own pursuits. Clarke who is the oldest (and my first nephew born), went on to graduate from Lehigh University being inducted in the honorary fraternity PhiBeta-Kappa. He went on to work on the staff of Pete Kostameyer when Pete served as U.S. Representative and now is active Delaware River Basin Commission and acts as their spokesperson from time to time. Bruce graduated with honors from Moravian College and besides working in the Insurance Field he has actively pursued his dream of performing musically in various Blue Grass Bands.

Back to my grand nephews and nieces present at the Thanksgiving dessert table. Clarke’s oldest daughter, Jaclyn, always wanted to be an astronaut. Until recent cutbacks in the manned space program changed her decision to follow that dream, she corresponded with astronauts, went to Space Camp at Huntsville Alabama and took part in other astronaut functions. She considered trying to get into the Air Force Academy. She now is attending the University of Maryland majoring in Aerospace Engineering. In her freshman year, she was inducted in the honorary sorority for female engineers and was chosen to work on a co-op

plan with Sykorsky Helicopter with their engineering department of which she is still actively working with on special aircraft. Jaclyn’s twin brother and sister are currently seniors at C.B.West High School. Both of them excel at the sport of volleyball. Candice is anxious to start college in the studies of marine biology upon graduating. She was a key player on the girl’s volleyball team at C.B. West.

Her brother, Christian, proudly told me over a piece of mince pie that evening, that Candice is helping coach girls in the 12 and 13 year old range in volleyball. Christian, who towers over me at 6’7”, excels in volleyball. Just this past summer he was flown out to Colorado Springs to try out at the Olympic Team Facilities. After that experience he traveled around the United States playing on a special amateur volleyball team. Several Western and Midwestern Universities were trying to recruit Christian and his dad showed me as we talked that night, a picture of Christian signing papers to attend Bringham Young University (BYU) with a possible double major. BYU is a top school in volleyball statistics. Good luck, Christian! Who knows where his dream will end up?

Bruce Rupert’s son Daniel has just entered his freshman year of high school over in New Jersey. His first marking period in high school saw him on the Honor Roll. He spoke to me of his interests in track, music, and the love of the outdoors and outdoor adventures and I am sure he will also be successful in all his pursuits.

He had that look of determination and he will succeed in following his dreams as his dad, his uncle, and his cousins did in following their dreams.

I wish I could go on as a proud Uncle to tell you about my two brother’s children and their accomplishments but I would need a full page of this publication. These nephews and nieces include a graduate nurse (Cedar Crest), a Professor teaching English, an Electrical Engineer, and an outstanding housewife and mother of two. I am proud of them all! In summary I shared with you how important it is to try working just a little bit harder, be attentive, and most of all set a goal and follow that dream. My parents (Both 8th grade graduates as most people of their day were) instilled those thoughts and qualities in us with the hope that we would be inspired to succeed in our chosen field and goals. I feel that we did. Now I write of that period of time I spent with the next two generations of just one family in our family tree; and I feel they too are giving that extra effort inspired by my parents to be successful. Mom and Pop Helm would be proud of all their grand children and great grandchildren as is their “Uncle Dick” of what they have accomplished and what fantastic accomplishments will follow. May all those reading this column encourage the youth of today to do the same!

Bob Foyder Receives GVH LOVE Award

Grand View Hospital presented the 2013 Life of Volunteer Excellence (LOVE) Award to Bob Foyder. Foyder has been part of Grand View Hospital’s volunteer program since 2004 and has contributed more than 1,800 hours of service.

Most of his volunteer hours are spent in the information services department handling simple repairs, but he also volunteers as a liaison in the medical/surgical short stay waiting room. Foyder was nominated for the LOVE award by a Grand View employee who observed his friendly, compassionate nature and noted that healways conveys the concerns of patients’ families to the staff.

When he isn’t volunteering at Grand View, he is conducting research to find grants for patients in need of durable medical equipment. As a member of the Multiple Sclerosis Life Light Support Group, Foyder serves as a peer counselor working with patients recently diagnosed with MS to let them know they are not alone.

Foyder has a creative side that is reflected in the wood and stone sculptures he creates. He also enjoys glider soaring through Freedom’s Wings. He has a son, daughter, stepdaughter and granddaughter. Foyder resides in Quakertown.

January 2014 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

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Ring in the New Year with a COLA

Many people ring in the new year with Champagne.

People who receive Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) get to ring it in with a COLA. This year, more than 60 million Americans are receiving a 1.5 percent cost of living adjustment (COLA) in their monthly benefit payment.

The 1.5 percent COLA begins with increased benefits for more than 57 million Social Security beneficiaries in January 2014, and payments to more than 8 million SSI recipients in late December 2013.

The estimated average monthly Social Security payment to a retired worker is $1,294 (in 2014), up from $1,275 (in 2013). The average monthly Social Security disability payment for an individual is $1,148 (in 2014), up from $1,131 (in 2013).

The basic monthly federal payment for SSI is $721 (in 2014), up from $710 (in 2013).

Some other changes that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. For example, the maxi-

mum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security payroll tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $117,000, up from $113,700. Of the estimated 165 million workers who will pay Social Security taxes in 2014, about 10 million will pay higher taxes as a result of the increase in the taxable maximum.

The amount of earnings needed for one credit of Social Security coverage has gone up as well, but all workers can still earn up to four credits in a year. In 2014, a worker earns a credit after earning $1,200. In 2013, one credit of coverage was $1,160. It takes forty credits to be fully insured for retirement benefits.

Information about Medicare changes for 2014 is available at www.medicare.gov.

Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/pressoffice to learn more about the COLA and other Social Security changes in 2014.

From everyone at Social Security, have a Happy New Year!

Tom Reiley is the Social Security District Manager in Allentown. Do you have questions about Social Security matters?

Email Tom at thomas.reiley@ssa.gov.

Social Security Q & A Question: I recently applied for a replacement Social Security card, but I might be moving before it arrives in the mail. What should I do if I move before I get it?

Answer: Once we have verified all your documents and processed your application, it takes approximately 10 to 14 days to receive your replacement Social Security card. If you move after applying for your new card, notify the post office of your change of address and the post office will forward your card to your new address. If you do not receive your card, please contact your local Social Security office. To get a replacement, you will have to resubmit your evidence of identity and United States citizenship, or your lawful immigration status and authority to work. You can learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov.

Question: What’s the average monthly Social Security benefit for a retired worker? How is the retirement benefit amount calculated?

Answer: The current average monthly Social Security benefit for a retired worker is $1,294. Social Security benefits are based on earnings averaged over most of a worker’s lifetime. Your actual earnings are first adjusted or “indexed” to account for changes in average wages since the year the earnings were received. We calculate your average monthly indexed earnings during the 35 years in which you earned the most. We apply a formula to these earnings and arrive at your basic benefit amount. Learn more by visiting us online at www.socialsecurity.gov.

RETIREMENT Question: My cousin and I are both retired and get Social Security. We worked for the same employer for years, but he gets a higher Social Security benefit. Why is that?

Answer: Your payments are based on your earnings over your lifetime. Unless you are both the same age, started and stopped work on the exact same dates, and earned the very same amount every year of your careers, you wouldn’t get the same benefit as your cousin.

Social Security benefits are based on many years of earnings — generally your highest 35 years. To learn more about Social Security retirement benefits, visit www.socialsecurity. gov and select the “Retirement” link.

Question: I am nearing my full retirement age, but I plan to keep working after I apply for Social Security benefits. Will my benefits be reduced because of my income?

Answer: No. If you start receiving benefits after you’ve reached your full retirement age, you can work while you receive Social Security and your current benefit will not be reduced because of the earned income. If you keep working, it could mean a higher benefit for you in the future. Higher benefits can be important to you later in life and increase the future benefit amounts your survivors could receive. If you begin receiving benefits before your full retirement age, your earnings could reduce your monthly benefit amount. After you reach full retirement age, we recalculate your benefit amount to leave out the months when we reduced or withheld benefits due to your excess earnings. Learn more about Social

Security reading our publication, How Work Affects Your Benefits, at www.socialsecurity. gov/pubs/10069.html.

DISABILITY Question: How does Social Security decide whether I am disabled?

Answer: For an adult, disability under Social Security law is based on your inability to work because of a disabling condition. To be considered disabled, Social Security must determine that because of one or more disabling conditions you are unable to do the work you did before and unable to adjust to any other work which exists in significant numbers in the national economy. Also, your disability must last or be expected to last for at least one year or to result in death. Social Security pays only for total disability. No benefits are payable for partial disability or short-term disability (less than a year). For more information, we recommend you read Disability Benefits, available online at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

Question: What is the earliest age that I can receive Social Security disability benefits?

Answer: There is no minimum age as long as you meet the strict Social Security definition of disability and you have worked long and recently enough under Social Security to earn the required number of work credits. You can earn up to a maximum of four work credits each year. The amount of earnings required for a credit increases each year as general wage levels go up. The number of work credits you need for Social Security disability benefits depends on your age when you become disabled.

For example, if you are under age 24, you may qualify with as little as six credits. But people disabled at age 31 or older generally need between 20 and 40 credits, and some of the work must have been recent. For example, you would need to have worked five out of the past 10 years. Note that eligibility requirements are different for Supplemental Security Income, which does not depend on work credits. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability.

SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME Question: I get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) because I am elderly and have no income. My sister recently died and left me the money she had in a savings account. Will this extra money affect my SSI benefits? Will my SSI payments stop?

Answer: The money inherited from your sister is considered income for the month you receive it and could make you ineligible for that month, depending on the amount of the inheritance. If you keep the money into the next month, it then becomes a part of your resources. You cannot have more than $2,000 in resources and remain eligible for SSI benefits ($3,000 for a couple). Call us at 1-800-7721213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to report the inheritance. A representative will tell you how your eligibility and payment amount might be affected. Learn more by visiting us online at www.socialsecurity.gov.

No two snowflakes are alike, but all snowflakes have 6 sides.

Senior Center Action Upper Bucks Senior Center 2183 Milford Sq. Pike, Qtwn 215-536-3066 www.upperbuckssac.com Game Day - Line Dancing – Yoga Pinochle – Bingo (public) - Bridge Call for details

Eastern Upper Bucks Senior Center 8040 Easton Rd, Ottsville Line Dancing – Chair Yoga Advanced Tai Chi – Beginner Tai Chi Weight Loss Group - Call for details

Pennridge Community Center 146 E. Main St, Perkasie 215-453-7027, www.pennridgecenter.org Bingo – Ceramics – Billiards – Aerobics Line Dancing - Card games – Arts – Chess Wii games - Tai Chi – Mahjong – Zumba Beginners Computer - Call for details

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2014

Bucks Sees Sharp Rise in Need for Safety Net Programs

QCHS Football Honors Opponent Victims in Car Crash

QCHS football coach George Banas and two players attended a fundraising event at Big Daddy’s restaurant in Bartonville to support two Pocono East football players and their families. A few days after the QCHS Panthers played at Pocono East in the fourth game of the season, two players were involved in a tragic car accident that left one player dead. Thomas Barbush, Principal of Pocono Mountain West, wrote to praise the fact that Coach Banas and players Patrick San Angelo and Mason Schmauder were among the crush of supporters at the restaurant. Barbush said, “They were there to show support in their blue and white gear.

It was noticed by many. A true class act on their part.”

Banas said the Booster Club raised $700 for the two families of the victims through a bucket drop at games, by donating its half of the 50/50 at the game against Phoenixville and other random donations.

“It’s more than just the Xs and Os,” Banas said. “We’ve played East for four years so we’ve gotten to know them pretty well. You never want to see what happened happen to anyone. We felt this was the right thing to do. It’s what our program should be about. We’re bigger than the game. We work with good, quality athletes and young men.”

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

Kids “Shop with a Cop” for Gifts and Holiday Cheer

Shop with a Cop is a national program that pairs police officers with children to afford them a better Christmas. The program allows children to view police officers in a different atmosphere to promote positive relationships.

The local program is geared toward Quakertown Community School District youth at the elementary levels. These children face a variety of life challenges such as a parent losing a job, homelessness, military deployment,

economic shortcomings, and other hardships.

Twenty-six children took part in this year’s program. They each received a $175 gift card and a police officer assistance to help them do their Christmas shopping.

After shopping, the kids enjoyed snacks and crafts while volunteers wrapped the Christmas gifts.

The Shop with a Cop initiative is funded through generous donations from the local community, private sponsors to local businesses. Volunteers help with gift-wrapping, hosting, and registration. Quakertown and Richland police officers volunteer their own time to support the program.

The local program was conceived in December 2011 by Officer Bob Lee of Quakertown Borough and Officer Ryan Naugle of Richland Township Police Department.

Officer Lee remarks that the Shop with a Cop program is a “win-win” situation, “The program is special because it allows an opportunity for young children to view police officer’s in a

different and fun role. The idea is for them to remember this unique opportunity as a positive relationship.”

The Quakertown and Richland Township Police departments would like to offer a special thanks to Walmart for hosting the program and providing supplies/snacks to everyone.

They also ask that you please recognize the following sponsors for their financial assistance to make this program successful: Andy Young Contracting, anonymous donators, A-PLUS Sunoco, Faulkner Dealerships, Frank’s Pizza, Hamsher Family, Larry & Tony’s AM Spin Class, Matthias Family, Morning Star Fellowship donators, Off the Wall Cycle Center, Peruzzi Mitsubishi, QNB, Quakertown Borough Police Association, Repko Williams Law Firm, Richard J. Ficco Sr. and family, Richland Township Police Association,

Richland Township Water Authority, Penn Stainless, Presidential Printing, Walmart, Wampole Lawn Service, Wood Heat, and the Zampirri Family.

A special thanks to all of the volunteers and the Quakertown Community School District for supporting this program to make it succeed. Also to Andy Young Contracting who provided holiday turkey dinners to each of the child’s respective families. Thank you to Presidential Printing and Robert Cope who designed the advertisement.

If you would like to support this program in 2014, please contact Officer Lee at 215 536 5002 or Officer Naugle at 215 536 9500.

Public Citizens for Children and Youth’s latest report, “The Bottom Line is Children: Economic and Food Security in Bucks County” finds that compared to 2008, the number of children receiving Food Stamps (SNAP) rose dramatically by 43 percent.

The report also points out that: Across the county, 18,465 children are eligible for free and reduced meals at school, a 42% increase from 2008.

19,553 Bucks County children are enrolled in Food Stamps (SNAP). Children make up 38% of Bucks County individuals benefitting from the program.

The share of children in low-income families has grown by 20% since 2008.

Only one-fifth of low-income students who qualifies participated in school breakfast programs in 2012.

Hunger and food insecurity are proven to have lasting effects on a child. The value of increased poor educational outcomes and lost lifetime earnings as a result of hunger and food insecurity was $19.2 billion in 2010, according to the national report – Hunger in America, published by the Center for American Progress and co-authored by PCCY’s executive director.

“Compared to other suburban counties, Bucks saw the greatest rise in the number of children eligible for free and reduced meals at school, but participation in these programs remains stagnant,” said Kathy Fisher, Family Economic Security Director for PCCY. “It is vitally important for county leaders, school districts, and parents do all they can to make sure children are properly fed so they can perform better in the classroom.”

The share of children in low-income families in bucks County grew since 2008; a clear sign that shows more needs to be done to help parents access safety net programs so that every family can provide for their children, particularly those earning low wages

or having difficulty finding steady work.

“Mothers across the county are doing everything they can to help their children grow,” said Nancy Morrill, President of the Bucks County Women’s Advocacy Coalition. “Bucks County families are facing increasing needs in this time of economic stress, which we hope our federal and state elected officials recognize.”

The number of Bucks County families using Food stamps (SNAP) increased, but a cut to the benefits in November caused a typical family of four to lose about $36 per month in benefits. The reductions equates to about 21 meals lost each month.

“More Bucks County families are struggling to put food on the table for their children,” Said Julie Zaebst, Policy Center Manager for the Coalition Against hunger.

“With fewer benefits available, we need our state and county leaders to step up to the plate so Bucks county children do not go hungry.”

PCCY recommends that County officials, service providers, community groups, schools and parents work together to: Work with school districts and parents to dramatically increase participation in school breakfast, including pressing schools to enter the PA Department of Education’s School Breakfast Challenge, which rewards districts who achieve the highest gains in school breakfast participation.

Mobilize county resources to educate local residents so that all eligible families can access federal safety net resources to help care for their children.

Build county-wide understanding and support for these programs so they are strengthened at the federal level.

Pccy’s report, “The Bottom Line is Children: Family Economic Security in Bucks County”, is the latest in a four-part series looking at children affecting children in each of Philadelphia’s suburban counties.

St. Isidore’s Kindergarten Class Learns while Giving

Students in Mrs. Bowen’s kindergarten class at St. Isidore School recently used a food drive to learn about shapes and to create ten frames in math. This class has donated over 1,000 items to local food banks thanks to the generosity of the class and a wonderful family. submitted photo

January 2014 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

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Young Author Keeps on Writing Felicia Maziarz describes herself as “a ten-year-old sixth grader, and hamster owner, attending the University Scholars Program at PALCS. She adores writing, reading, acting, gymnastics, stuffed animals and working with technology. Felicia is a member of the Davidson Young Scholars Program and her latest creative project is organizing the D.I.R.T. Kids - a small group of performing kids who want to raise money for charities (dirtonstage.blogspot.com).”

I met Felicia when I reviewed her book on my blog. Felicia’s first book is titled “The Perpetual Papers of the Pack of Pets.” I thought the story and writing in the book was awesome and I was surprised to learn the author, Felicia, is around the same age I am. I was very happy to meet a kid who likes reading and writing as much as I do.

Here is what “The Perpetual Papers of the Pack of Pets” is about: After three years of living under the same roof as the dog in the house, Katrina von Cat the Master of Wisdom and Knowledge decides to write a letter to her canine housemate, Stanley. Katrina loves treats, naps and bossing the dog around. Stanley loves snow, attention and turkey. The diva kitty, Katrina, will have none of Stanley’s antics and most certainly will not stand for him eating her food. The only reasonable solution is to take him to Kitty Court.

I think there are a lot of kids out there writing great stories and maybe some kids who want to get their stories published. Felicia is a great example of a kid doing just that. She let me ask her a few questions about writing and being an author.

Erik - Your book, “The Perpetual Papers of the Pack of Pets,” is a hilarious story about a cat and a dog who live in the same house but interact by writing letters to each other. How did you get the idea for your book?

Felicia - I got the idea for my book because I have attempted to write books about humans before, which didn’t go so well. I think I understand pets better than humans. I also kind of built the story around the name Katrina von Cat the Master of Wisdom and Knowledge and

it grew from there.

Erik – I love Katrina’s full name! This is a question that’s been on my mind ever since I read your book; because dogs and cats can’t write, how do they communicate by letters?

Do they have a typewriter? A computer?

Felicia - They found a typewriter in their basement, I still don’t really know how they type on THAT. Yes, they keep secrets from me.

Erik – They do seem to be very sneaky.

What attracts you to writing?

Felicia - I think that it is a creative outlet that can go anywhere. Oh, and it’s fun!

Erik – Speaking of writing, you just completed NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month). Can you tell us what that is and about your experience with it?

Felicia - NaNoWriMo is in November, and it is where you try and reach a word count goal. If you do, you WIN! I use YWP (the Young Writers Program) NaNoWriMo where you can pick your own word count goal, but the grownups just use regular NaNoWriMo, they have to make it to 50,000 words. I have written Stanley & Katrina’s first and second book through NaNoWriMo (nanowrimo. org) and am soon going to be interviewed on their blog. Happy Dance!

Erik – NaNoWriMo sounds like a great challenge for kids (and adults) who want to write their story down. Which authors inspire you the most? Do you have any writing mentors?

Felicia - I think the authors that inspire me the most are Rick Riordan and all of those Indie authors out there. I actually do happen to have a writing mentor named Julie Grasso who wrote 2 books. She helps me edit and review my books.

Erik – I’ve read Ms. Grasso’s “Adventures of Caramel Cardamom” books. They are great!

What do you want to be when you grow up?

Felicia - I would like to be an interior designer and write books in my free time even if I don’t have any free time.

To learn more about Felicia and “The Perpetual Papers of the Pack of Pets,” visit her website at stanleyandkatrina.com.

For book reviews and more, visit my blog ThisKidReviewsBooks.com

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, on January 28, 1887, a 15 inch wide, 8 inch thick snowflake was observed in Fort Keogh, Montana.

A Big Mistake on eBay Every one of us has at some point found ourselves with an old bottle in our hands—some older than others. I get questions about how to tell a valuable bottle from a cheap one all the time.

I wrote this article based on a cautionary tale that I heard recently.

A woman attended my antiques appraisal event in Houston, TX and she recounted this story about the sale of an old bottle on eBay. She told me and my appraisal show audience about how her friend sold an old bottle on eBay for $1,200. They were thrilled about the sale until the buyer, who turned out to be a bottle dealer and the head of some national bottle collecting society, revealed that he had purchased her bottle with the $1,200 winning bid.

He did not write to thank her.

He wrote to boast. He had the audacity to write to the seller to tell her that she was a stupid woman.

That’s what he wrote - stupid.

Why was she stupid? Because he revealed that she had sold that bottle on eBay for $1,200 and he knew it was actually worth $60,000.

So, this dealer added written insult to the unknowing seller’s $58,800 injury. These are the kind of people that you hope get their due in a manner of the old saying “What goes around comes around.” Disgusting!

Lessons Learned This is perfect example of something I have been saying for many, many years. While I hope this story teaches you something about why some antiques dealers deserve the lousy reputations that they have, it also demonstrates something that is tremendously important about the online auction website eBay and others like it. Online auction sellers don’t always know what they are doing. Or how valuable an item truly is.

Do not use eBay as a credible resource for

researching the value of an antique. Right now, on the eBay auction record site, there is an incorrect value for that bottle. It states that the bottle is only worth $1,200 when it is actually worth $60,000. If you are researching eBay sales records and you come across that bottle, you are going to look at the photograph of the bottle and think that you have a bottle like that one and think it is only worth $1,200. But, it is actually worth more—a lot more--to the tune of $58,800 more. It is worth $60,000.

This is the major problem with people who do not have experts evaluate their antiques before posting them on eBay or any online website. This is also the problem with the people who are offering to search eBay records for you and sell you an online appraisal for $9.99.

I offer online appraisal services and what they are doing is not an online appraisal. Those people are not evaluating the object; they are just searching posted online sales records that can be horribly wrong.

You would save time by just throwing a $10 down a drain. There is no identification, no evaluation, no credible sales record source. It’s a mess.

The problem is that just like this seller, people are selling objects online and they do not know what they are selling, they do not know the current market or appraised value, and they do not know that there are snakes out there ready to take advantage of your ignorance.

Again, do not use eBay or any online auction to determine value. Get a real appraisal—online or traditional--from an expert.

Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning TV personality, Dr. Lori hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on Discovery channel’s hit show Auction Kings. To learn about your antiques, visit DrLoriV.com, Facebook. com/DoctorLori, or @DrLori on Twitter.

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2014

LINDA E. GALLUCCI, 67, of Quakertown, died November 29 at St. Luke’s Hospital, Bethlehem after a long illness with her family by her side. She was the wife of Michael Gallucci for 41 years. Born in New York City, she was the daughter of the late John and Edith (Fraser) Hauser. She was a member of St. Isidore’s Catholic Church, Quakertown.

She is survived by her husband; Daughter, Michelle Hopkins, husband John of Fall River, MA; Son, M. Christopher of Quakertown; Grandson, Ethan Hopkins; Brother, John Hauser, wife Kathleen of Doylestown; many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and her black lab, Beauty.

ELIZABETH A. BAISCH of Spinnerstown, passed away December 1. She was 85 years old. She was the wife of William C. Baisch Jr. They were married for 56 years.

She is survived by daughters, Dorothy Fravel (Richard), Arlene Alderfer (Jim), Doreen Thornton (Gene), four grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Spinnerstown.

“Betty” was active in several community organizations. She was a member of The Milford Township Fire Company’s Women’s Organization, the Red Cross, and The Milford Township Historical Society. She was also a member of AARP Quakertown Chapter 3377 and sang with them at local nursing homes.

WILLIAM M. HAIGH, 59 of Trumbauersville died December 2. Born in Quakertown he was the son of William H. Haigh and the late Frances T. (Kulik) Haigh.

He was a member of St. Isidores Catholic Church. In addition to his father he is survived by a sister Susan E. Coulston and her husband William. A nephew Ryan and niece Samantha.

DONNA J. FREUND, 54 of Quakertown died Friday December 6 in her home. She was the wife of Pete Freund. They celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary last February.

Donna enjoyed traveling and sailing with her husband. She also enjoyed cooking, baking and gardening. She loved all animals but most important was the love for her family. In addition to her husband she is survived by two sons Philip M. and Logan P., two sisters Sharon Wingate and Melissa Morrison (Ray) a brother Philip Wingate. A niece Carley Wingate and a nephew Bradley Lay. GUSTAVE WILLIAM COULTER,53, of Quakertown died December 7. Husband of

~Obituaries~

Beverly Kay (Lawrence) Coulter. He was a U.S. Army Veteran.

PATRICK G. WHALEN, 33, of Quakertown died December 8 in his home.

Born in Philadelphia he was the son of Kathryn (Schmidtetter) Whalen of Quakertown and the late James T. Whalen. Patrick enjoyed hockey and soccer. In addition to his mother he is survived by a daughter Lily and a son Broderick.

Four brothers James, Michael, Sean, and Kevin and two sisters Colleen and Erin.

He is also survived by his extended family and friends.

FRANK CHOOKAGIAN, JR., 92, of Quakertown died December 10 in his home. He was the husband of the late Lorretta E. (Brandt) Chookagian. Frank was a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of the Quakertown Lodge #512 F & AM Masonic Lodge. He was a U.S. Army Veteran serving during WW II. Survived by his children William, Beverly Godshall, Frank, III (Donna), and Rick (Anne). A brother James and a sister Eleanore Peterson (Charles). Four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Predeceased by a brother Fred.

DALE C. NEIMAN, 78, of Quakertown, died December 11, in Phoebe Richland. He was the husband of Doris A. (Mundy) Neiman for 62 years.Dale became a local baseball icon as a successful coach serving the Quakertown area. He managed and coached community baseball programs for Little League, Connie Mack and the American Legion organizations.

The highlight of his coaching career was guiding his team to the 1979 Connie Mack State Championship. He was recognized for his achievements with his induction into both the Pennsylvania American Legion Hall of Fame and Pennridge/Quakertown Hall of Fame. In addition to his wife, he is survived by sons; Richard “Butch”, and Timothy, wife Rosanne; daughter Brenda Hartman, husband Ron; brother, Robert, wife Gloria; grandchildren, Nolan, wife Melissa, Deron “Doc”, Allison, Dale “DJ”, Andrew and Matthew; step-grandchildren, Jason, wife Christine, Kristy, Chris and Josh; great-grandchildren Carli, Caitlyn, Jason and Macie. He was preceded in death by stepmother Mary (Stastny) Neiman, brother Ronald and sister Jean Schmell.

LOUISA M. WIMMER, 69, of Quakertown formerly of Hellertown, died December 13 in St. Luke’s University Hospital, Bethlehem.

She retired in 2011 from Teva Pharmaceutical in Sellersville, prior to that she worked for Moore Business Forms.

She was a loving mom, mum mum and sister. Louisa is survived by her two daughters Debbie A. Von Steuben (Gregory) of Bethlehem Twp., and Donna M. Focht (Gary) of Quakertown. Four brothers James Grider, Jr. (Doris) of Auburn, Al, Carl Grider (Joan) of Bethlehem, David Riccio (Sue) of Danielsville, and Michael Riccio of Encinitas, CA, a sister Patricia MacDougall (R. Bruce) of Bethlehem. Six grandchildren Stephanie, Kevin, Kourtney, Amanda, Jeremy, and Kelly. She was predeceased by two grandchildren Jeffrey and Jason.

JOHN F. SCHMIDT, 89, of Quakertown, formerly of Gilbertsville, died December 15 in Reading Hospital. He was preceded in death by his wife of over 48 years, Edith (Halteman) Schmidt, in 2004.Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Fredrick and Georgina (Ruether) Schmidt.He was a member and Deacon of Haycock Mennonite Church, Quakertown. John was a dairy farmer for over 60 years. He worked for 15 years for Spring Glen Farms at Zern’s Market, Gilbertsville.

He is survived by sons; Jonathan, wife Eileen, Quakertown, Paul, wife Brenda, Watsontown and Mark, wife Linda, Gilbertsville; daughter Elaine Emrick, husband Andrew, Quakertown; 20 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by sister, Georgina Derstine and a granddaughter.

Thomas A. Becker, 60, loving husband of Kathryn Dorsey Becker, died December 17, 2013. Born in Eau Claire, WI he a son of the late George and Ruth Nowicki Becker.

He was a member of the Catholic Church of St. Luke. He was a proud owner of the Green Bay Packers.

In addition to his wife of 35 years, he is survived by daughter, Jennifer Clark (Matthew); four sisters, Georgeann Becker, JoAnn Decker, Mary Yaklich, and Barb Neill; numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Thomas was preceded in death by brother, Jim Becker.

The Funeral Mass was celebrated at Catholic Church of St. Luke on December 27, 2013.

Memorials may be made to McCall Hospice House, 1836 W. Georgia Rd., Simpsonville, SC 29680.

Condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.thomasmcafee.com.

ALLEN D. HILBERT, 81, of Quakertown died December 18 in St. Luke’s Hospice House in Bethlehem. He was the husband of the late Clare J. (Howlett) Hilbert. He worked for the former Krupps Foundry in Quakertown before retiring. Allen was a member of New Goshenhoppen U.C.C. in East Greenville. He is survived by three nieces; Leyanda Conklin, Susan Do, and Christine Cohen a nephew David Arndt. Predeceased by a sister Sarah Arndt.

ALBERTA C. ROGERS, 77 of Pottstown died December 19 in Pottstown Memorial Medical Center. She was the wife of Richard J. Rogers. They celebrated their 58thwedding anniversary last April. Born in Sellersville she was the daughter of the late William and Sadie (Hendricks) Brown. She was a bus driver for Perkiomen Valley School District before her retirement. In addition to her husband she is survived by two daughters Donna Neiman (Richard) of Pottstown and Alberta Sommers (John) of Perkasie. Brothers Johnny (Janet) and Frank. A sister Nancy Boyer (Willie).

Five grandchildren Tracey, Caroline, Amanda, Pete and Matt and five great grandchildren Felicity, Dillon, Alexis, Skylar and Lucas.

She was predeceased by two sons Richard Joseph Rogers and Richard Rogers, Jr. a sister Marion Lukens, a brother Leonard and a great grandson Caleb.

PAUL RIFFLE, 70, of Quakertown died December 19 in Belle Haven Nursing Home, Quakertown. He was the husband of Lois E. (Diehl) Riffle. They were married 29 years last May. He retired in 2005 as a machinist for the former US Electrodes in Telford. He was a U. S. Air Force Veteran and an avid sports fan. Paul was of the Baptist faith. In addition to his wife he is survived by a son Randal and his wife Kelli of West Virginia, a step son John Brinkos, Jr. of Virginia. His siblings Donivan Short, Brenda Gilbert, Jimmy Short, Marsha Adams, Deanna Spencer, Angie Short all of West Virginia, and Pam Ireland of Georgia.

One grandchild Raina Riffle and a step grandchild Kathleen Brinkos. He was predeceased by a step grandson Joseph Brinkos.

EVELYN RUTH AHLUM, 77, of Quakertown, passed away December 21 in Belle Haven. She was the wife John E. Ahlum for 51 years. She was a 1954 graduate of the former Sell Perk High School, now Pennridge.

Evelyn was a member of United Mennonite Church, Quakertown, where she served as a former church financial secretary for a number of years. Surviving with her husband, son, Jeffrey, daughter, Diane Schreier, husband Brian, both of Quakertown; granddaughters, Rachel and Courtney. She was preceded in death by brothers, Emerson and Earl Black.

Sellersville Legion Post Donates to Community by craig wilhelm

During the month of December, Nase-Kraft American Legion Post 255 of Sellersville continued their support of the local community by giving out the following donation: Pennridge Fish - donation of $1000.00, Sellersville Fire Department - $1000.00, Miford Square Shelter - $1000.00 towards the purchase of a new van.

Earlier in the month, the post contributed the following to the Borough of Sellersville: $600.00 towards the purchase of new American Flags for the light poles in the borough. $500.00 to sponsor a Trolley for Winterfest.

Craig Wilhelm is Commander of Nase-Kraft American Legion Post 255

Notes from American Legion Post 242

by dick helm

It was a busy November for us as we were the host American Legion Post for our regional Veteran’s Day Ceremony emceed by Rep Paul Clymer who took on that responsibility for a landmark 25 years. We also had the Youth Activity drawing at the end of the month.

December found us packing gifts and delivering them for veterans at different facilities. We did all this despite the various interfering snowfalls throughout the month. We urge you to keep a sharp eye out for upcoming Post events that are open to the public during these cold—dark—dreary months to aid you in making through these periods of Cabin Fever.

Our Honor Guard was busy with a Flag Burning Ceremony held by the Girl Scouts, Honoring veterans who passed away by firing rounds at their gravesite, and Posting the Colors at various community functions.

This brings to mind the conversations I have had since writing about my Army Service Experiences in previous editions of this paper. Many veterans of World War II and Korea reminisce with me about the days of their youth spent in tanks with General Patton or being in two, three, or as many as five European Campaigns. Today they have a hard time getting around but as they talk of their experiences brought on by my article, their eyes sparkle with both pride and a few tears welling up as they think of their friends not returning with them, even after all these years! They gave so much and today they are showing signs of old age and many of today’s masses look at them as someone who is in their way. What a shame!

They gave so much and because of their age many of our young people of today who are the same age as when they served, don’t have the time to imagine what they have done for them or to say “Thank You!” I always take time to listen, appreciate, and most of all thank them for giving up their youth and early twenties to keep me safe and preserve my freedom.

Next time you see a Veteran with a hat showing the name of a ship or a branch of service in which they proudly served—please reach out, shake their hands, and thank them sincerely for their sacrifice and love of country.

January 2014 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

Zepp Family Dominates the UBACE Battle of the Bands by christopher betz

The Zepp Family Band came calling down from East Texas, PA taking home the Best Songwriting and Judges’ Choice Awards at the Battle of the Bands showdown in Quakertown recently. The four sibling group of Bailey, Noah, Rebekah, and Shaun beat out five other bands for the honors. However, the band Next to None, also hailing from the Lehigh Valley, got away with the People’s Choice Award that evening.

The event was hosted by the Upper Bucks Alliance for Creative Expression (UBACE)

at McCoole’s Arts and Events Place on Main Street in Quakertown.

According to their website, UBACE’s mission is to foster, inspire, and celebrate personal growth opportunities for area youth and adults through creative expression in a safe, vibrant, nurturing environment.

The group focuses its efforts on creative students in grades 6 through 12 aspiring to be musicians, singers, artists, actors, photographers, songwriters and those interested in the graphic, performing, and recording arts.

Learn more about UBACE at their website: http://www.ubace.org.

(top left) Bailey Zepp saws on her fiddle to the delight of the audience at the 2013 UBACE Battle of the Bands. (top right) Rebekah Zepp wows the crowd with her singing and yodeling skills. (below) All four Zepp siblings perform an original song that won them the Best Songwriting Award. photos by christopher betz

Bucks Clubwoman Honored with Volunteer Services Award

Elizabeth Schirmer, a member of GFWC Perkasie Woman’s Club received the Pennsylvania “Jenny” award at the Middle Atlantic GFWC conference in November.

The award is named after the founder of the Federation, Jane Cunningham Crowley which recognizes a woman of extraordinary spirit of volunteer work in her club, community and family. Mrs. Schirmer has been a member of GFWC since 1970 while she served in many positions and leadership roles. The community recognizes her efforts

in fundraising for the Pennridge Community Center and Grand View Hospital in the continuing auxiliary volunteer work.

West Rockhill Township recognizes her for the years of chairing the yearly October Festival.

Along with endorsement from GFWC she received endorsements from the following: Pennsylvania State Representative Paul Clymer, Dr. Patricia Guth, a Pennridge educator and Dorothy Garis, a former GVH administrator.

Baby New Year Boots Celebrate Chilly Cookies Father Time Football Frost

Fun Holiday Hot Cocoa Ice Skates Icy Mittens Mummers Parades

Parka Party Scarf Skiing Sleds Snowy Times Square Tubing

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12

• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2014

Back to Medicare Basics As we begin a New Year, I thought I would offer a very concise Q and A overview of Medicare.

(Note: All of the answers below have variables and nuances depending on the situation and individual.)

Goodbye ‘13, Hello ‘14!

As we say goodbye to 2013 I want you to think back over you year and remember all the things you did or didn’t do to make it a healthy year for yourself.

What is your past year going to look like and how are you going to make this year better? Be honest with yourself cause if you aren’t you only hurt yourself.

Let’s begin with your goals. Did you reach your goals this year? If you did, CONGRATULATIONS!!!

If you didn’t don’t stress over it. Maybe your goal was too unrealistic. Try to re-evaluate your goals.

Remember that your overall goal needs to be made up of small, easy to reach goals. If that means you need 365 goals (a daily goal) then DO that. Make those small goals something easy to succeed at. Try this: Goal each day- to get 30 minute workout in. It’s only 30 minutes. But it’s better than getting 0 minutes.

You have an hour for lunch? Go for a quick run first. 30 minutes DONE!!

Now that you have re-evaluated your goals, set a plan of attack. Keep a log of everything you eat and all of your activity each week.

This will help you see when you are falling off the track and when you need to make a change to your program and diet. Let’s be honest, you didn’t do this last year right? So let’s try it for this one.

Last but not least, Accountability and Discipline. These two go together really well.

You HAVE to have them. You are in control.

NO one else is going to do it for you. There is No magic pill. You MUST put in the hard work. You must put in the time. I know you don’t sit at home every day and wonder where your paycheck comes from. NO, you got to work for it!! Is the economy great these days?

Not at all. Even if it was the best it has ever been, you can’t just quit working and expect to get paid. Same goes with your health. You can NEVER quit working to be healthy. Let’s not call it “work”. How about we say you have to make it your LIFE STYLE. Just like your job, it needs to become a habit. Wake up, workout, go to work, come home, sleep well!!

So, again as you look back tell yourself, next year I am going to make it the best year of my life for the rest of my life. Then set your goals so you can reach them and start making it happen. This year is YOUR year to be successful!! You are AWESOME!!! You WILL SUCCEED!! Where there’s a will there’s a way!! Hello 2014!!

Corbin Williams, NPTI-CPT, owner of GetReal Training, LLC in Sellersville, graduated from the National Personal Training Institute (NPTI).

He also graduated from Wexford University with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Nutrition. He is a certified strength and conditioning coach and a certified nutrition coach.

You can contact him at 215-416-5757 or visit www.getrealtraining.net

Because it is a government run program, will Medicare offer me inferior care?

No! Though Medicare administers the program, all care is provided by private doctors, hospitals and laboratories. Medicare will pay approximately 80% of all costs with Medicare Supplements covering the balance.

What exactly does Medicare cost?

Medicare (Parts ‘A’ and ‘B’) will cost you (in 2014) $104.90 per month. To supplement Parts ‘A’ and ‘B’, Medicare Advantage Plans (HMOs) can cost under $50 per month, and Medicare Supplement Plans can cost between $100-$200 per month.

Will Medicare allow me fewer choices that I have now?

Probably not. If you choose a Medicare Advantage HMO plan there are Dr. networks but it will be very similar to what you have now through employer based insurance. If you choose a Medicare Supplement Plan, you will be allowed to see any Dr. or use any hospital in the United States.

Are there large deductibles that need to be satisfied before coverage begins?

No! Officially there are some deductibles that Medicare wants you to pay (for example, the $147 per year medical services deductible) but typically the Medicare supplement plans would pay these deductibles for you.

What about pre-existing conditions?

To purchase Parts A and B, there are never medical pre-existing conditions. And when you first go on to Medicare, you may choose any

Supplemental Plan with no pre-existing condition issues or limitations.

If I choose to take Social Security benefits early at age 62, may I also sign up for Medicare?

No! Enrolling in Medicare cannot be earlier than age 65 unless you are officially disabled and collecting Social Security disability payments.

Will Medicare cover my younger spouse and/or other dependents?

No! Family coverage doesn’t exist in Medicare. Also, if your spouse and you are both on Medicare, you each pay premiums separately and there are no “married couple discounts” Must I enroll in Medicare when I turn 65?

You do not have to enroll in Medicare and there will be no penalties if you are covered by employer-based insurance from your job or your spouse’s job. If you have no employerbased insurance and you sign up after age 65 there will be penalties added on to your monthly premiums when you eventually enroll in Medicare.

Do I need to enroll in Medicare every year?

No! Your coverage rolls of over from year to year for Parts A and B as well as your Supplemental Plan Will Obamacare affect my Medicare coverage?

No! When Obamacare was signed into law in 2010 some changes were made that improved preventative care services and drug coverage, but in essence, Obamacare is for folks under 65 and Medicare is for folks over 65.

Howard Peck owns and operates Senior Insurance Solutions and can be reached at 267-923-5281 and srinsurancesolutions.com

Horizons Behavioral Health to Open Upper Bucks Office Horizons Behavioral Health, a provider of behavioral and mental health services, is pleased to announce the opening of a new satellite office in Upper Bucks County. The agency, based in Southampton, Lower Bucks County, largely serves Bucks and Eastern Montgomery Counties. The new office is slated to open in February of 2014 at the Heritage Executive Campus at Hilltown in Perkasie.

For over ten years, Horizons Behavioral Health has been providing Behavioral Health Services (often referred to as “wraparound”) to children with varying behavioral and mental health needs, including diagnoses such as Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD and depression.

Horizons offers

treatment teams to work with families to empower children and their families to manage behavioral difficulties in their homes and local communities.

“We are excited that our new Perkasie location will give us the opportunity to meet the increasing need for behavioral health services to children and families that live in Upper Bucks County.” said Matt Rosenberg, Executive Director of Horizons Behavioral Health. While most of the services occur in the community, the additional location will offer both families and staff a convenient place to meet for treatment consultation.

For more information about Horizons’ services, please call 215-355-9707.

Ronn Moyer Receives 2013 Maybelle Peters Award

Grand View Hospital presented the 2013 Maybelle Peters Award to Ronn Moyer at the annual volunteer appreciation luncheon on October 1. Moyer has been volunteering at the hospital for more than 15 years and has given over 3,100 hours of service. He was honored for his lasting dedication, reliability and humble manner in providing volunteer support to the department of emergency medicine. The Maybelle Peters Award is the most prestigious award a Grand View Hospital volunteer can receive. The award is named in memory of Maybelle Peters, the late wife of deceased Grand View physician Michael Peters, M.D.

January 2014 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

QCHS Grad Shows Skill, Patriotism with USA Football Team in France by christie kascak

Rob Licopoli, who graduated from Quakertown HS in 1987, was chosen to go as a representative of the United States to play football on the USA Eagles team in Le Mans, France. He arrived in France on Sunday, December 1, 2013 and played at 3 pm, Central European time, on December 7, 2013 against the French National Team at the MMArena.

He plays on the offensive line for the USA Eagles.

The USA Eagles, an amateur sports team, just celebrated their 10-year anniversary in 2012 and are now entering into their 14th year.

This football organization provides “postcollegiate” athletes the opportunity to compete in 14 countries, throughout Europe, Mexico and the United States.

Rob’s commitment to sports and the success of his business, 360 Sports Agency, are witnessed in his hard work and dedication to the game and in the fostering of other athletes as they grow in their skills. He also coaches his son’s teams and as a result was recently nominated for Coach of the Year.

We are proud of all that he has accomplished and wish the best to Rob and the entire USA Eagles team. Go Team USA!

10 Tips to Winterize Your Dog The winter storms have hit us hard and surprisingly early this season. It was a sheer delight to watch my dog’s first experience with snow. I felt like I was the greatest magician in the world. I threw open the door as to say “Ta-da!

You’re never going to guess what I did to the yard.” I could almost hear the little wheels in her head spinning. As if Ziva were saying to herself “Hey, you’re good, but what happened to my yard?” She looked out to the left then to the right then back at me. I watched as Ziva crept up to the white frozen covering. Slowly she inched up to sniff then lick at the snow.

She pressed the pads of her paw down onto the snow. She sprang back holding her paw straight out into the air while shaking it as if to say “Yuck! Get this frozen stuff off of me now!” I didn’t want her to be afraid of the snow so we took it nice slow.

Some tips to winterize your dogs: 1. Try massaging petroleum jelly into the paw pads before going outside. It helps to protect him from burning salt or chemicals that could get lodged in between the bare toes.

2. Thoroughly wipe off your dog’s paws, legs and stomach when he comes in out of the snow. He may be able to ingest the salt or other potentially dangerous chemicals while licking his paw pads and body.

3. Adding moisturizer like a paw balm to the paws after a good toweling off will help to heal chapped paws.

4. There are a variety of booties available at pet stores and the internet. Getting Fluffy to wear them is going to be difficult.

5. Try using pet- friendly iced melts instead of salt whenever possible.

6. Remember, if the weather’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet. Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat will provide more warmth.

7. When you bathe your dog in the colder months, be sure to completely dry him off before taking him out for a walk. Be sure to use a dog shampoo not a people shampoo because it can be too harsh for your dog.

8. Is your dog a short hair breed? You might want to consider giving him a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly.

9. Puppies can’t tolerate the cold as well as adult dogs, and may be difficult to housebreak during the winter months. If your puppy appears to be sensitive to the weather, you may opt to paper- train him inside. If your dog is sensitive to the cold due to age, illness or breed type, take him outdoors only to relieve himself.

10. Keep your dog’s crate, cozy dog bed, warm blanket or pillow away from all drafts.

Marion C. O’Neil CPDT-KA trainer and Molasses Creek Dog Training, LLC

owner of

It’s Snowing Cats and Dogs!

Bucks County SPCA Adoptables

Sebastian is a 3 year old male that came to the shelter as a stray. He has been neutered and is waiting to find a new home. He is an independent boy that would love to rule over the house as an only pet. Sebastian would be best in a home with responsible older children. He is litter box trained and tested negative for feline leukemia.

Diana is a 7 year old spayed female. She is a quiet girl that loves to lie around and relax in front of sunbeams. She is good with other cats and has not been around dogs.

Diana should do well with responsible children of all ages. She is litter box trained and tested negative for feline leukemia.

A new year means new beginnings. Why not make a New Year’s resolution to bring home a new four-legged friend this year?

There are plenty of pets waiting for their fur-ever homes at the Bucks County SPCA’s Upper Bucks shelter. If you are interested in these or other animals, give them a call at 267-347-4674, visit them online at bcspca.org, or visit them at 60 Reservoir Road, Quakertown.

Harley’s Haven Adoptables

Believe it or Not. The phrase ‘Cats and Dogs’ may come from the Greek expression cata doxa, which means ‘contrary to experience or belief.’ Perhaps if it is raining extraordinarily hard, one might describe it as ‘raining cats and dogs.’

WOW! Christmas sure was great this year! Brandy and I went to several places spreading cheer in our new outfits that Auntie Linda made for us.

I am showing you this picture just in case you remember seeing us out and about town. I wasn’t really happy about the clothes but then I saw how much attention I got and how happy it made everyone. Now that Christmas is over we must ALL extend the spreading of good cheer and love throughout the year. My human is on a missions trip for a week this month so I will be under the watchful (but no so strict)eye of Auntie Lisa. (She gives me people food after her meal.) Life is good!

Homer is a 3-4 year old pitbull mix, who wandered into a good place! He was found as a stray by one of our foster homes, and has been living with her since then! He is a super friendly, outgoing guy - he LOVES other dogs and is very submissive with them...would make a great playmate! He also absolutely adores children, and would love a family of his very own! He is housetrained, crate trained, and is neutered and up to date on vaccines. Call us today to help find this deserving boy a forever home!

Lilo is a 2 year old terrier mix, who is ready for love! She has already been a mom in her young life, and was surrendered to a shelter in West Virginia with her baby this past spring. This cute little lady has been looking for her forever home with us since then, which we can’t understand, as she is an awesome little girl. She loves other dogs, is great with cats, and LOVES all people! She is completely housetrained, crate trained, and is spayed and up to date on vaccines. She would love to come with you, and is waiting for your call!

Harley’s Haven Dog Rescue’s phone number is 215-527-7432, and their address is PO Box 64583, Souderton, PA 18964. You can also get more info at harleyshavenrescue.com.

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2014

The New You for 2014

January 2014 is a New Year. It is when we start to think about our goals for the New Year. Some of us will look back on last year and think about what our goals were for 2013 and did we in fact achieve those goals. Hopefully for most of us we will have achieved some of them and at least contemplated making those other changes we wanted to make this past year. What matters for us this year is to set goals that are what we really want for ourselves and to look at what things in our life we want to change on any level. Most people look at making major changes in their life. For instance it can be to lose weight or to quit smoking. They are the two top goals for most people.

What I like to do when I begin the New Year is to look at all the things in my life that make up who I am. What I mean by this is to evaluate my social and family relationships, my emotional state, my physical well-being, my career path and my spiritual journey. I work from a book called the Language of Letting Go

by Melodie Beattie. I have had this specific meditation book for over 20 years. Every year I will answer all the questions for the January 1 post and break down each question into a goal and how I will achieve that goal. What I like about these questions is that they are not the typical questions you may ask yourself about what tangible goal you want to work on for the year.

For instance one of the questions is What would you like to happen in your life this year with friends, family and work. Most of us would look at that question and say I don’t know or there is any real problem. But there doesn’t always have to be a problem. A goal can be about improving our relationships with family members. It can be about resolving conflict we have with a co-worker. It can be how I can spend more time with my friends.

These goals can actually make us feel good and help us to resolve issues that may be deeply ingrained in who we are that we have taken for granted. These questions give us another way to look at what we want to be different for the New Year. It actually takes a lot of pressure off of us to have to do the big goals that maybe we have failed at every year. These goals can be simple and positive and easily attainable because they may be a one time thing that we have to do. It gives us more time to achieve more goals which always makes us feel better.

The nice things about goals is that they can provide direction and in the end validation for you. The point is to keep them simple and manageable for you. So be as consistent as possible with your goals and regardless of the outcome you will learn about yourself and be a SUCCESS!! Happy Goal Setting for 2014!!

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.

Visit her website at www.balancelife4u.com.

Homeschooling, Cyber Schooling Valuable Alternatives by rachel smith

Despite common misconceptions, home education can be beneficial to students looking to learn in a nontraditional environment. Statistics and testimonies show that homeschooled and cyber schooled students can learn well while staying involved with their peers.

For six years of my life, I did not ride a bus to school. My parents did not drive me, and I did not carpool. I walked. That is, to my living room.

In third and fourth grade, I learned math and literature by teaching myself from textbooks. Science and history came mostly from watching documentaries and frequent field trips, accompanied by plenty of reflective essays. I used CDs to study subjects like typing, German, and critical thinking.

All of this was done alongside my brother, five years older than me, and my mother, who is not a certified teacher. Then, for fifth grade and all of middle school, I attended the Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School. Cyber school meant more structure, with live classes taught online by teachers. I listened to the class through head phones, clicked the “Raise Hand” button to volunteer, and spoke into a microphone to give answers. The classes were two or three days a week, with around twenty students per class.

Then, the time came for me to enter ninth grade. My brother was moving onto college and my mom wanted to go back to work.

After doing my own research and investigating several types of schools, I decided to go back to public school. I had always heard the stereotypes about homeschoolers, and my friends and I often joked about them. But it was rare that I heard these “jokes” told in all seriousness, as I encountered in high school. When I told people I used to be homeschooled, the variety of responses amazed me: “Why, was something wrong with you?” “So you could sleep as late as you wanted?” “Wow, but you’re so normal!”

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, there are around 22,000 homeschooled students in the state, with the fifth highest concentration in Montgomery County.

Despite all this, homeschooling is a commonly misunderstood form of education, surrounded by stereotypes and generalizations.

Some people have completely valid questions, such as, “Are homeschoolers prepared for college?”

The answer to this is yes. Studies have

shown that homeschooled students are as, if not better, prepared for college than their traditionally educated counterparts. According to a study published in the Huffington Post, 66.7 percent of homeschoolers graduate college, compared to 57.5 percent of public, private, and Catholic school students. Homeschoolers also tend to maintain higher GPAs throughout high school and college. Other questions are comical, like, “Do homeschoolers wear pajamas all day?” There were plenty of days where my family was out of the house early, whether we were catching a train to a museum exhibit in Philadelphia, driving to an event in the middle of the state, or attending a morning class in the area. But if I had no plans to leave the house, anything besides sweat pants just seemed unnecessary.

However, some questions about home education are just hurtful and ignorant. The best example of this? The question that has plagued the homeschooled population since the dawn of time: “How do they socialize?” This never ceases to make homeschooling mothers cringe and students shake their heads in disbelief.

For those of you who actually worry about the problem of socialization, here’s the short answer: there is no problem. In fact, the majority of homeschoolers tend to excel at making and maintaining friendships simply out of necessity. They are not in the same classroom every day, with the same kids, all around the same age.Homeschoolers and cyber schoolers have to break out of their comfort zones and actively seek friendships without relying on teachers and seating arrangements to help them meet people. The friendships I established during my six years away from public school are unusually diverse. Some of my friends are much older or younger than me, and others live in distant areas of the state. I met fellow homeschoolers through activities such as a weekly gym class, a handbell choir, and classes taught at local churches and co-ops. I also got to know kids of all different educational backgrounds through community theatre, Girl Scouts, sports, and youth groups. Oftentimes, I have found these friendships more meaningful and lasting because they are not based on growing up in the same place at the same time, but rather common interests. Homeschooling and cyber schooling is not a good fit for every student, but those who benefit from alternative education should not be criticized. rachel smith is the arrowhead news editor at souderton high school.

Upper Bucks Technical School Adult Evening Program Announces Employment Certs UBCTS Adult Evening School program has received approval to offer the following employment certifications: Welding Certification Approved by Welder Training and Testing Institute (WTTI) as a remote testing facility to offer this nationally-recognized Certification, which issues credentials to certify to any code using any of the following processes: SMAM, GMAW, FCAW or GTAW. Medical Administrative Assistant Approved by National Healthcareer Association as a testing site to administer the National Certification Examination for Medical Administrative Assistant.

EPA Section 608 Refrigerant Certification Approved by ESCO Institute as a testing facility.

Approved as a testing site by Pennsylvania Department of Motor Vehicles to offer Certification for Pennsylvania Safety Inspection Mechanic, Enhanced Emission Inspector (EEIC) and Enhanced Emission Inspector Re-Certification (EEIR).

Registration for the upcoming spring 2014 semester has been extended to January 2, 2014. Don’t be disappointed! Register today! Download your course offerings booklet at www.ubtech.org, e-mail us at aschaffer@ubtech.org or call the Adult Education Office at 215-795-2011.

Are You Prepared for the Unexpected?

When you’re working to achieve your financial objectives, you will encounter obstacles.

Some of these can be anticipated — for example, you won’t be able to invest as much as you want for retirement because you have to pay for your mortgage. Other challenges can’t be easily anticipated, but you can still plan for them — and you should.

Obviously, the word “unexpected,” by definition, implies an unlimited number of possibilities. However, at different stages of your life, you may want to watch for some “expected” unexpected developments.

For example, during your working years, be prepared for the following: • Emergency expenses — If you needed a major car or home repair, could you handle it? What about a temporary job loss? These events are costly — especially if you are forced to dip into your long-term investments to pay for them. To help guard against these threats, try to build an emergency fund containing six to 12 months’ worth of living expenses, held in a liquid, low-risk account.

• Investment risk and market volatility — Extreme price swings are unpredictable, and they can affect your investment success. To defend yourself against wild gyrations in the market, build a diversified portfolio containing quality investments. While diversification, by itself, can’t protect against loss or guarantee profits, it can help reduce the effect of volatility on your portfolio. And here’s one more thing you can do to cope with the ups and downs of investing: Maintain a long-term perspective. By doing so, you won’t be tempted to overreact to short-term downturns.

• Long-term disability — One-third of all people between the ages of 30 and 64 will become disabled at some point, according to the Health Insurance Association of America.

Disabilities can be economically devastating.

As part of your benefits package, your em-

ployer may offer some disability insurance, but you may need to supplement it with private coverage.

• Premature death — None of us can really predict our longevity. If something happens to you, would your family be able to stay in your home? Could your children still attend college?

To protect these goals, you need adequate life insurance.

As you approach retirement, and during your retirement years, you may want to focus on these challenges: • Living longer than expected — You probably don’t think that “living longer than expected” is necessarily a bad thing. However, a longer-than-anticipated life span also carries with it the risk of outliving your money.

Consequently, you may want to consider investment solutions that can provide you with an income stream that you can’t outlive. Also, you’ll need to be careful about how much you withdraw each year from your various retirement and investment accounts.

• Need for long-term care — If you had to stay a few years in a nursing home, the cost could mount to hundreds of thousands of dollars. These expenses could jeopardize your financial security, so you’ll need to protect yourself. You could “self-insure,” but as that would be extremely costly, you may want to “transfer the risk” to an insurance company. A financial professional can help explain your choices.

None of us can foresee all the events in our lives. But in your role as an investor, you can at least take positive steps to prepare for the unexpected — and those steps should lead you in the right direction as you move toward your important goals. submitted by bob podraza, financial advisor at Edward Jones, Quakertown. Bob can be reached at 215-536-3635.

January 2014 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship Christ Lutheran Church 1 Luther Lane, Trumbauersville 215-536-3193 Pastor: Carolann Hopke 9:00am Worship, 10:15 Sunday School Free Drive-in Movies Friday evenings June through August, Handicapped accessible, Family Friendly Church

Emmanuel Episcopal Church 560 S. Main Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-3040 emmanuelchurch11@yahoo.com www.emmanuelquakertown.org Sunday services at 8am and 11am, Visitors and new members always welcome!

Grace Bible Fellowship Church 1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N., Quakertown 215-536-6096 grace@quakertownbfc.org www.quakertownbfc.org Pastor: Ron Kohl, Sr. Pastor September - May: 9am Sunday School for all ages, 10:10am Morning Worship Service, 6:30pm 2nd & 4th Sundays are small group meetings, 6:30pm 1st, 3rd, 5th Sundays Evening Worship

Church of the Incarnation (Anglican-Episcopal) 44 S. 8th Street, Quakertown 215-538-3787 Ardores@verizon.net www.IncarnationQuakertown.org Pastor: Most Rev. Thomas J. Kleppinger Traditional worship, Biblical faith Sunday 10:30am, Wednesday 10:00am

Good News Church 424 Juniper Street, Quakertown 215-536-4393 www.gnciv.org Pastor: David Mackey, Jr. Sunday service & childrens church 10:30am Wed. Bible Study 7:30pm. Friendly, Biblebased, Christ-centered, Spirit-led Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church 2966 Old Bethlehem Pike, Zionhill 215-536-7288 pastor@zion-zionhill.org Pastor: James Saboe Sunday School all ages 9:00am, Worship services 10:15am, We at Zion invite all to worship and fellowship with us.

Evangel Assembly of God 401 Arch Street, Perkasie 215-453-1565 • www.perkasieag.org Pastor: Rev. Gary Saul Where God’s Love Changes Lives MorningStar Moravian Church 234 S. Main Street, Coopersburg 610-282-1908 coopmoravian@aol.com Pastor: Lance Fox Sunday services 10:00am. Small, friendly Protestant church. Community mission: Serving free dinners once per month. All are welcome. Call for information.

Good Shepherd Church (Episcopal) 1634 Hilltown Pike, Hilltown 215-822-3930 Pastor: Harper Turney 10:00am Sunday Eucharist St. John’s Lutheran Church 4 South Main Street, Richlandtown 215-536-5027 secretary@sjrpa.org www. sjrpa.org Pastor: Susan Sosnin Sunday morning worship at 9:30am with holy communion first and third Sundays of the month. Sunday school 8:30am Ridge Valley United Church of Christ 905 Allentown Road, Sellersville 215-257-7244 rvucc.pastor@verizon.net www.ridgevalleyucc.org Pastor: Rev. Steve Myren We are a vibrant, welcoming Family of Faith. Worship: Sundays 9:30am. Ridge Valley: Growing Together in God’s Love.

The Gathering (at the Barn) 24 Greentop Road, Sellersville 215-529-6824 tomdaugherty@live.com www.thegatheringchristianfellowship.com Pastor: Tom Daugherty

First United Methodist Church 501 Market Street, Perkasie 215-257-4626 fumcperkasie@verizon.net www.fumcperkasie@verizon.net Pastor: Steward Warner Mission: Share God’s love, Make and nurture disciples of Jesus Christ, positively impact our community and world.

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Downtown Dogs Feeds 150 on Christmas Day

Last month, Craig Farmer, announced in UBFP that “No one should be alone or hungry on Christmas.” As owner and operator of Downtown Dogs on Broad Street in Quakertown, Craig invited anyone in the community to convene at his restaurant from 9 am til 1 pm on Christmas Day for a free brunch.

Craig’s offer was apparently well received.

“It went great! We had over 150 people come in for the brunch. I’m very happy with how it all turned out!” says Farmer, “I saw some familiar faces and a lot of people I didn’t know.”

His own family and some of their friends pitched in to help with the event.

“It’s important to support the community that supports you. Pay it forward. I think the kids got a lot out of it, too,” says Farmer. above: Craig Farmer mans the grill at his Downtown Dogs restaurant while hosting a free community brunch buffet. below: (left-right) Hayes Hepburn, Katie Hepburn, Kiersten Myers, and Darren Farmer help to serve over 150 guests at the Christmas event. not pictured: Star and Kierste Farmer who were busy serving some guests. submitted photos

St. John’s Lutheran Church 19 South 10th Street, Quakertown 215-536-3593 stjohnsquak@verizon.net www.stjohnsquak.org Pastor: Ray Miller Sunday Worship 8 and 10:30am, Sunday School 9:15am. Welcoming, Reaching Out, Serving. Elevator available Trinity Great Swamp UCC 9150 Spinnerstown Road, Spinnerstown 215-679-7710 tgsucc@verizon.net www.tgsucc.org Pastor: David R. Ellis / Matt Gorkos Sunday worship services 8am (Communion 1st Sunday of month) and 10:30am, 9:15 Sunday School classes for all ages (PreKAdult) & family activities Trinity Lutheran Church 102 N. Hellertown Avenue, Quakertown 215-536-4345 www.trinityquakertown.org Pastor: Lynette R. Chapman 9 am traditional services, 10:15am Sunday School, 11am contemporary service, Handicapped Accessible, Family Friendly Church, Dynamic Music Ministry, Kidspiration Services.

Pennridge Ice Hockey Club Collects Food, Supplies for Food Pantry

Holy Spirit Anglican Church 1133 W. Orvilla Road, Hatfield 215-453-7452 rtutton@verizon.net www.holyspiritanglicanhatfield.org Pastor: Rev. Robert Tutton We are a traditional conservative Evangelical Christian church.

Pennridge Christian Fellowship 720 Blooming Glen Road, Blooming Glen 215-257-7309 kallebach@pennridgecf.org www.pennridgecf.org Pastor: Thomas Vargis Sunday worship 10:30am, Sunday School after song service for infants to age 12.

Wed evenings 7pm with prayer, crossroads youth and (Sept-April) boys and girls clubs.

Everyone is welcome.

Richland Friends Meeting (Quaker) Main St at Mill Rd & Park Ave, Quakertown 215-538-7555 Clerks: Kathy Redding, Jack Schick Absolute freedom of thought and worship is our faith and practice over 300 years in Quakertown. Join us 10:30am Sundays

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Applebachsville 837 Old Bethlehem Road, Quakertown 215-536-5789 stpauls@netcarrier.com www.quakertown.net/stpauls Pastor: Rev. David Heckler We believe in sharing God’s love in joyful service. Come and see. All are welcome.

Morning Star Fellowship 429 S. 9th Street, Quakertown 215-529-5422 Pastor: John Decker www.mstarqtown.org Services at 9am & 11am, Children’s Ministry during all services, Student ministry 6pm, Celebrate Recovery Weds 7pm, Divorce Care Thurs 7pm, EastWest Cafe open before & after services. Free coffee.

St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church 3668 Ridge Road, Perkasie 215-795-2965 office@kellerschurch.org www.kellerschurch.org Pastor: Robert E. Mitman Worship 7:45 & 10:15am, Sunday School 9am, Koinonia Cafe 8:30pm, Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday, Children’s Church 2nd & 4th Sunday

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ 104 Green Street, Sellersville 215-257-7268 stacey@stpaulsucc.net www.stpaulsucc.net Pastor: Rev. Patti Thomas 8am Rejoice & Praise Worship in Parlor, 9am Sunday School (all ages), 10:15am Worship in Sanctuary, Crossroads 1st Sunday of month 9am in Fellowship Hall

The Pennridge Ice Hockey Club was busy in November collecting household items and food for the Pennridge FISH Organization. This was done whenever the club had a Home game at Hatfield Ice. The organization wanted to help the local organization to keep its shelves

full during the holiday season. The captains of PIHC are: MSA Hayden Maltby (2nd from left) & Michael Mastropaolo (missing from pic), Varsity Jake Wexler (far left), MSAA Dylan Lowry (2nd from right), Hunter Connelly (far right) is the captain for the JV team. submitted photo

Jamie Gehris Named Student of the Month at Upper Bucks Tech School

Jamie Gehris, a QCHS senior, was named Student of the Month for October at the Upper Bucks County Technical School. Jamie has been enrolled in the Auto Technology program for three years.

He excels in the Auto Technology program with outstanding attendance and grades. Upon graduation, Jamie plans to attend Universal Technical Institute (UTI) to continue his education in Auto Technology.

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2014

Quakertown’s Christmas Cheer Abounded this Holiday Season Quakertown Alive! did their part this Christmas season to get Quakertown into the holiday spirit with the Christmas Tree Lighting, the Christmas House Tour, and the first annual Business Decorating Contest.

Hot cider, warm smiles, and holiday cheer filled Broad Street on December 7 for Quakertown’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Although rainy weather caused the tree lighting to be delayed for the first time in thirteen years, Santa arrived via firetruck, courtesy of the Quakertown Fire Department, to take his seat on the ice throne carved on site especially for him. Children lined up to tell Santa their Christmas wishes.

Triangle Park remained bedecked with ribbons, garland, and candy canes through the month. The 30-foot Christmas tree offered a focal point for local holiday photo opportunities especially while Santa Claus’ ice throne still stood during the cold weather.

The falling snow only added to the holiday atmosphere of Quakertown Alive!’s Christmas House Tour on December 8. Jann Paulovitz and the tour committee organized a beautiful outing for participants including an opening reception at McCoole’s Arts and Events Place, five local homes decorated in a variety of styles, four historic buildings in the area, and local artist Jim Lukens’ art studio.

With an opening theme of “Snowflakes,” Quakertown Alive! inaugurated the first annual Business Decorating Contest to help build the holiday feeling in Quakertown.

Several businesses entered the contest this year. Congratulations to the first recipient of the Golden Bell is Antiques at 200 East. They will hold on to the award until next year when it is passed on to next year’s winner. photos by michele buono

Depression Era Silk Mill to Become Corporate Headquarters, Bring 100+ Employees Downtown At a recent press conference, Jerry Gorski of Gorski Engineering Inc. of Collegeville announced that he is the owner and developer of an old textile mill in Quakertown Borough, Gorski will re-purpose the former home of the Best Made Silk Hosiery Company, which operated until the mid-1900s.

“I have a particular passion for adaptive reuse projects,” Gorski s a i d , “ T h e ability to breathe new life into a nearly-obsolete facility is extremely rewarding.”

Following demolition of some newer additions, the finished building, to be

called the Best Made Center will measure 45,000 square feet and serve as corporate headquarters for at least two Bucks County companies.

The benefits to the borough, including an influx of workers and an upgraded streetscape, have been noted by officials at both the municipal and county levels.

Bucks County commissioner Robert Loughery explained that this is Bucks County’s first loan project under its Bucks2Invest initiative.

Gorski is receiving $470,000 in low interest loans; Univest Bank and trust is also a financing partner.

At the press conference, Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick hailed Gorski as a provider of a second chance for the building located at 18 South 5th Street. He said that old mills like this one are the “heart and soul” of local municipalities.

The primary tenant will be Synergis Technologies.

Synergis President David Sharp III said the move to the borough was eight years in the making. Working with Gorski Engineering, he said that several possibilities were investigated, including construction of a new facility on raw ground, but the old mill felt like home. Synergis’ 107 employees will occupy 23,000 square feet of the building.

The space will include offic-

es, research and development, conference rooms and classrooms for training students on Synergis’ software systems.

Former owner and current occupant Roselon Industries will move out temporar-

ily while Gorski renovates 10,600 square feet of space for their office, warehouse, and research and development space. Roselon President Robert Adams said that when the company moves back

into the building in June they will celebrate 50 years in the building.

One or more additional businesses will have the opportunity to lease the remaining 7,500 square feet.

(inset) A masonry sign built into the structure identifies the mill’s original occupant and the year the building was raised. (above) The property will undergo significant demolition in the course of the renovation. Additions added after the original building was constructed will be torn down, as will the house and long defunct Fifth Street Luncheonette to the right. photos by christopher betz