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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2022
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks? Now to January 9 Festival of Trees still on display 8am5pm until Jan. 9 at Pearl S Buck House, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. FMI: 215-2490100 or pearlsbuck.org Now to January 31 Winter Art Show at Freeman Hall (Online Exhibition & Sale), 181 E Court St, Doylestown. info@bucksarts.org December 31
New Year’s Eve
January 1, 2022
Happy New Year !
January 3 Free Monday Meals 5:15pm-6:30pm at Morning Star Fellowship, 429 S 9th St, Quakertown. (also 1/10, 1/17, 1,24, 1.31) January 3, 10, 17 Family Education Program on Addiction first three Mon. of month 7pm at Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. FMI: 215-527-3077. Register: 800-221-6333. January 9 Computer Realm-Pokemon Tournament 1pm-4pm in Event Room 201, QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. FMI: call QMart office at 215-536-4115.
January 13 Nutrition w/Teri: Chili for “Souper Bowl”, 11am free program in-person or on ZOOM. Registration required. FMI: 215-723-5841. Generations of Indian Valley sponsored. January 15 Homemade Soup & Bake Sale, 9am1pm at Friedens Church, 2451 Saucon Valley Rd, Center Valley. Choice of soups available, $3.35/pint, $7.50/quart. Winter Slot Car Show 9am-1pm in Event Rm 201 at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. Slot cars, parts, accessories, books & more. FMI: Office 215 536-4115 or Tom 610-564-6152 or Mightymaur@ gmail.com January 16 “Country Jades” free Country Music Concert 10am-2pm in Rm 201 at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. FMI: 215-536-4115 Souderton HS Cheerleading Basket Bingo 2pm-5pm at HS Cafeteria, 625 Lower Rd, Souderton. Tkts: $25/adv. get 2 raffle tkts. Contact: jtisoskey414@ gmail.com or kstaehle70@gmail.com. Walk-ins welcome!
January 19 Behind the Kitchen Counter w/Doug, 1:30pm free program in-person or on ZOOM. Registration required. FMI: 215723-5841. Generations of Indian Valley sponsored. “Take & bake” meal given by Doug. ($5 donation appreciated) Executive Leadership Program (6-month program) 9am-10:30am at Bailiwick Campus, Suite 23, 252 W Swamp Rd, Doylestown. SIGN-UP DEADLINE is JAN 7. FMI: centralbuckschamber.com or 215-348-3913. January 20 Free Community Dinner (3rd Thurs. every month) 5:30pm (doors open 5pm) at First UCC, 4th St & Park Ave, Quakertown. All welcome, no need for reservations. FMI: 215-536-4447 January 22 Saturday Craft Show 9am-2pm. Handmade crafts by local artists. Event Rm 201 at Q Mart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. FMI: 215-536-4115 WWWA Wrestling 6:30pm-9:30pm, Event Rm 201 at Q Mart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. FMI: 215-536-4115. Live wrestling every 4th Sat. of each month.
January 26 ‘Name that Tune’ 10am (hits from 50s, 60s & 70s) led by program coordinator Amy Stover. Free program in-person or on ZOOM. Registration required. FMI: 215-723-5841. Generations of Indian Valley sponsored. January 29 Church School Open House 9:30am12noon at 2165 Rte 212, Pleasant Valley (GPS Coopersburg) View our many historical documents, albums, etc. in our repository. Weather permitting. FMI: Tom Cline 484-308-1510 ‘Alumni & Friends All Year Reunion’ 1pm-4pm at St. Isidore School, 603 W Broad St, Quakertown. FMI: jflynn@ stisidoreschool.com January 30 Red Cross Blood Drive 10am-3pm in Event Rm 201 at Q Mart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. To make appointment: redcross.org, code word: qmart January 30 to February 5, 2022 ‘Coin Drive’ for Catholic Schools Week at 603 W Broad St, Quakertown. FMI: jflynn@stisidoreschool.com February 2 Groundhog Day February 6 Quakertown HS Girls Softball “Designer Bag Bingo” at Benner Hall 1260 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown, 2pm (open 1pm), Tkts: $25/adv, $30/door. Refreshments for sale. FMI/tkts: sbeal0827@gmail.com
Community Rallies Support for Family Following Christmas Morning Blaze
The Upper Bucks Community and beyond is rallying around the King Family following a devastating fire early Christmas morning that destroyed their Quakertown home and claimed the lives of father Eric and sons Liam and Patrick. Mother Kristin and their eldest son Brady escaped the blaze. Countless personal accounts of the family’s connections to the community fill social media as the community tries to come to terms with the loss of these three young men. Eric was widely known for his deep participation as a coach for the Quakertown Youth Baseball Association where his children played. The family was very involved in their church parish where Kristin has taught PREP. Kristin also co-owns KM Fitness & Nutrition in Perkasie. Brady is in the 8th grade, Liam in the 5th Grade, and Patrick in the 3rd grade, and were quite active in sports and other activities.
Have something to share with your community? info@ubfp.org • 215-529-8915 www.ubfp.org • fb.com/ubfreepress 582 S. West End Blvd • Quakertown, PA 18951
A number of fundraisers have been put into action to help Kristin and Brady put together some of the pieces to restart their lives without father and husband Eric and sons and brothers Liam and Patrick. While financial support has been and continues to be generous, friends, family, teachers, and community members also want to show their love and moral support for Kristin and Brady. Indeed, the community also seeks healing of its own. A vigil and walk are scheduled for Wednesday, January 5th to bring the community together in love and support. Information about that event is printed to the left of this article. The family expresses its deep appreciation to the community for all of its support and for respecting their privacy during this very difficult time.
Support Sought for Additional Family Displaced by Christmas Day Fire
Carol Arnhold with her son TJ and their dog live in the home attached to the King Family’s house which was destroyed by fire Christmas morning. Fortunately, none of them lost their lives, but their house was heavily damaged
by the blaze and is now uninhabitable. A GoFundMe fundraiser has been established to help this family recover from the loss.Visit quakertown.net/arnhold for details on how to help the Arnholds.
January 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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Bucks County Proking Pacas 4-H Club Members Earn Awards
Bucks County 4-H had their Achievement Award night Friday, December 10, 2021 at Delaware Valley University. This award ceremony is to recognize all member and volunteers that make a difference in 4-H. Bucks County Proking Pacas 4-H club from Harley Hill Farm in Quakertown, Pa had three members that received awards for their project animal alpacas. Catherine Vincent received an Achievement Ladder Award - Green, which shows accomplishments a broad range of ageappropriate tasks, acquiring valuable leadership life skills as they progress in 5 different levels. David Dutertre received a Jr. Cloverleaf Award for building leadership within his club. He also became a Bucks County Ambassador,
one of only 8 new Ambassador roles this year. Layla Cotter received a Farm Credit Award - Alpaca, for outstanding achievement in an animal project. She received multiple Achievement Ladder Awards - Green, White, Bronze, Silver, which shows accomplishments a broad range of age-appropriate tasks, acquiring valuable leadership life skills as they progress in 5 different levels. Layla was asked to continue as a Bucks County 4-H Ambassador for a 2nd year along with 10 prior Ambassadors. She received a Personal Growth Award which recognizes youth that have demonstrated exceptional growth this year. Lastly, she was recognized as a teen leader for Pronking Pacas 4-H club.
Caleb’s Cocoa Café 2021 Nets Over $4700 to Aid the Homeless
Souderton-Telford Rotary Presents $10,500 to Police Benevolent Assn
The Souderton-Telford Rotary Club recently presented a check to the Franconia Township Police Department’s Police Benevolent Association (FTPB). Combined with donations from friends of Rotary, the total amount donated was $10,500. These funds will be used for the FTPB’s annual “Shop with a Cop” event. This annual event strives to create a positive interaction between law enforcement and the community by helping economically disadvantaged children shop for gifts for their
families during the holiday season. The Souderton-Telford Rotary Club has been serving the local community since 1925. Our vibrant club is honored to be one of the more than 34,000 Rotary Clubs around the world committed to service above self. We look forward to meeting community minded individuals looking to make a difference locally and globally! Learn more at souderton-telfordrotary.com
Chief Michael Martin, Officer Tim Boyle, Rotary President Karla Myers and Detective Glen Kranich
Olivia Hyde (9) brought the trophy that the QMFA Peewee Junior Cheer team won at the recent Pop Warner Regional Cheerleading competition in Trenton to show Becky and Stephen Spor of Spor’s General Store in Trumbauersville, one of her team’s sponsors. They qualified to go to Nationals in Orlando and are the first QMFA team to qualify for show cheer in 18 years. They placed second in their division which consisted of 11 teams. photo by christopher betz
11 year old Caleb Byelich of Quakertown held his third annual Cocoa Café in front of his family’s home in downtown Quakertown on December 12 bringing in over $4700 to support the Upper Bucks Code Blue Homeless Shelter. Donations are still coming in. Dozens of patrons converged on the yellow tent buying baked goods and enjoying hot chocolate with plenty of toppings. Everyone was treated to live music by local students. Caleb was inspired to do his first Cocoa Café after a family trip to Baltimore where he noticed homeless people, saying “I need to do something to help them.” He raised over $1000 that first year and the proceeds
have been growing ever since, totally nearly $12,000. “I love seeing the community get together in a big group and seeing them having fun and talking to people.” With Covid and nationwide economic problems, the Code Blue Shelter has been experiencing an especially high demand for assistance. Shelter volunteer Louise Butcher remarks, “Demand for funds is always great!” Not surprisingly, Caleb doesn’t take most of the credit for his successful fundraising event. Instead he thanks his family, friends, and his customers for the success, saying, “Thank you for coming and thank you for the support!”
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2022
When To Modify Your Estate Plan
BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ.
With the new year upon us, it is that time again…time to review your estate plan! By their very nature, estate planning documents are meant to be long lasting and are not prone to frequent revision. For those who are lucky enough to maintain a degree of stability throughout their life, there may only be one or two occasions which warrant a revision or adjustment of their estate plan. But for the vast majority of us, our estate plans should be updated every few years, or after every major life event, in order to follow through on our legacy wishes. With that being said, there are certain events that warrant the revising of some or all of your estate planning documents, or completely scrapping your previous estate plan and starting over. These events include: • Marriage (first marriage or subsequent marriage) • The birth or adoption of a new child • Divorce • The death of a current beneficiary in your will or trust • Choosing to add or remove a beneficiary from your estate plan
• Choosing to change your executor, trustee or guardian; • You win the lottery! (or simply a change in your financial situation); • A move to a different state Keep in mind that a revision to your estate plan does not necessarily mean that you need to draft and execute all new documents. Sometimes a simple amendment or addendum will suffice. But each situation is unique. Generally speaking, significant changes will warrant new documents. If you have undergone a major life event and need to adjust your estate plan; or if you simply need a starter estate plan, make sure you sit down with an experienced estate planning attorney who can create a customized estate plan to suit your individual needs. And last but not least, do not procrastinate! Robert E. Fravel, Esq. is a Bucks County attorney located at 123 N. Main Street, Suite 101B, in Dublin, Pennsylvania. He specializes in estate planning & administration, family law, and business law. To set up a consultation, call his office at (267) 227-9138 or visit his website at www.fravel-law.com
Bracalente Manufacturing Donates Over 500 Pounds of Food and Toys, Supports Manufacturing Education Following in the footsteps of the company’s founder, Silvene Bracalente, Bracalente Manufacturing Group (BMG) strives to make a difference in the local community by helping those in need. Silvene was recognized by all who knew him as a generous soul with a relentless spirit of giving. This fall, the 140 employees participated in a Thanksgiving food drive and collectively donated over 500 pounds of food to The Open Link and Feast Pantry. For the recent Christmas holiday, the BMG team gathered toys for children in need through the Toys for Tots program. Running from early November through December 13th, an abundance of toys were donated by the employees. So many that after one collection, an additional box was added to be able to accept all the donations that were brought in. In addition to the good deeds of the
employees, BMG supports local trade organizations through funds raised by the Silvene Bracalente Memorial Foundation (SBMF). SBMF holds an annual Sporting Clay Shoot & Fundraiser to support the foundation of the mission. Since the founding n 2015, SBMF has raised over $100,000 to support the manufacturing trade. In the last few months of 2021, the foundation has made donations totaling $22,500 to Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, Upper Bucks County Technical School, Western Montgomery Career and Technology Center and Northern Montgomery Technical School with plans to distribute additional donations at the start of 2022. Donations to SBMF are accepted year-round. Please contact Bracalente Manufacturing Group for more information on how you can support the Foundation.
(above) Bracalente Manufacturing Group employees show off just a fraction of the toys collected this year for the Toys for Tots program. (middle left) Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology president
Pedro Rivera attended the 7th Annual Silvene Bracalente Memorial Foundation Sporting Clay Shoot & Fundraiser and was presented with a $7,500 donation for the college. (top left) Representing the Silvene Bracalente Memorial Foundation, president & CEO of Bracalente Manufacturing Group, Ronald Bracalente, was joined by employee Jacob Vogels to present a $5,000 check to Western Montgomery Career & Technology Center principal Mark Holtzman and instructor Andrew Klein which will be used to support their Advanced Manufacturing Program. (bottom left) Ronald Bracalente presents a $5,000 check to the Upper Bucks County Technical School to support building the next generation of technicians. submitted photos
Hi everyone. Well here we are starting a new year. What will this year hold for all of us? We have been praying for healing for all those people in the Kentucky area. My human lost her home to a tornado before I was born. She lived in Texas in 1979 and she said it was an F5. It was on the ground for 30 miles and 51 humans crossed the bridge because of it. We really understand what’s going on there. Can’t imagine doing it in this cold with no electric. We have also been back on the nursing home circuit. We are only doing Belle Haven twice a month but hopefully my human will get me back to my St Luke’s Hospital visits. This is a current picture of us so you know who to look for. We are Allie the Yorkie, Peanut and Me, Brandy. Love to all, Brandy
“January is the quietest month in the garden… But just because it looks quiet doesn’t mean that nothing is happening.” - Rosalie Muller Wright
January 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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RumBum
“Don’t it always seem to go...That you don’t know what you’ve got ‘til it’s gone.” So sang Joni Mitchell in her 1970 classic Big Yellow Taxi. We lost one of our cats recently. RumBum… an orange and white male, originally named Kiwi when we picked him up at the SPCA. Who names an orange cat Kiwi? Who names ANY cat Kiwi? (Note: If you are the person who named him and then who gave him up… it’s a beautiful name. We just wanted to make him our own.) We also brought home Kirby, another male, named after Camp Kirby located behind our little farmhouse, although originally named Charlie. Charlie isn’t a terrible name, but didn’t seem to fit him. We actually brought Kirby home first, but when he came in and promptly hid behind the couch, with no desire to venture out for food or company, we decided to go back and adopt the very friendly, non green cat named kiwi. While we hadn’t thought of having two cats, we reasoned that since one was planning on never leaving the very safe confines between wall and furniture, it might be nice to have one ball of fur who is a bit more gregarious, and actually enjoys being out in the light. And so here was..our unbelievably friendly kitty who we soon discovered liked to “chortle”… I had never heard this noise before, just as I never heard of anything called chortling, but I checked with Dr. Google, veterinarian, and ascertained it is a real thing. Why he was doing it depends on which cat mind reader I checked with, but they mostly agree that it’s because he’s happy, friendly, and content. The chortling which my wife found so adorable, to me, quickly became unbelievably annoying. It wasn’t necessarily the sound that bothered me, it was the never ending stream of this loud quivering noise coming from the deep recesses of this cat’s throat, day and night, while laying on the couch…laying on the floor…or laying in the bed under my wife’s arm. And so, for the next seven years or so, as we all grew older, and the chortling grew louder, and my patience grew thinner, I never really warmed up to RumBum, and constantly thought of ways to replace him with a quieter old feline. That however, would have upset Shelli, and it wouldn’t have been fair to our noise machine, or Kirby, so my kvetching about him probably grew as annoying to my wife as the throat vibrato was to me. We learned soon after adopting him that RumBum was mostly deaf, and not particularly smart, so we now had a deaf and dumb cat, and a blind dog. Trifecta! But, he was a great mouser and bat catcher
when they got in the house, hair licker to Kirby, and friend to Shelli. I simply bought the food. (He was also great at staring at the floor and watching the fireplace for hours on end.) We live in a very rural area. Many of our neighbors have barn cats, and few, if any, have indoor only animals. Both of our cats are chipped, and we installed a cat door that opens only when they walk up to it. (We discovered the importance of this type of door, when we learned that the heavy plastic flap that we first had would not stop possums or raccoons from coming into the house.) And so, our animals are indoor and outdoor. Our area is also home to many deer, fox, fisher cats, bear, and coyote. Never a problem…I squirrel proofed the bird feeder, the bear stopped knocking over the trash cans after I yelled at him one early morn, the fisher cat screeches but doesn’t bother us, and the deer crap everywhere and eat our flowers. But the coyotes never came near… Until they did. One morning Shelli woke up at her usual 3 AM, and after showering, came and woke me very upset because she didn’t see RumBum. She looked outside, I looked outside, I walked up and down the road, we called him, but he was nowhere to be found. Very unusual, as he typically went out at night to go to the bathroom, and then came back up to the bed to lay with her. We feared the worst. When Shelli later told me she heard dogs during the night, which she never did, I was certain that our worst fears had been realized… coyotes sound like yapping dogs, and most likely had taken RumBum. I contacted neighbors, just in case he was out there somewhere, or if they found any remains, to let us know so we could bury what we could next to Edgar, Shelli’s old, very smart cat, who moved here with her, and enjoyed our home until he passed. For those who don’t believe in letting cats out, feel free to send hate mail if you like. He was tremendously happy going in and out catching a mouse or chipmunk, sitting and watching the birds on the feeder, and just sunning himself on the front porch whenever he desired, so I don’t think that I would have changed that. It’s been a few weeks now, and I still look out the door once or twice a day, hoping that maybe he just disappeared for a while and will find his way home, but knowing that he’ll never be there looking up at me to come in. Kirby seems to be constantly searching for his lost friend, and Shelli misses him tremendously. Me, I would give anything for a chortle right about now. John Schaninger is a lifelong resident of Pennsylvania and has lived in Upper Black Eddy for 12 years. Reach him at m12string@aol.com
Carbon Monoxide: Potential Hazard
It’s worthwhile to address a potential hazard that arises with use of fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces and water heaters: carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas produced by the combustion of fuels such as natural gas, oil, and propane in devices including furnaces, water heaters and stoves. These items are designed to vent the CO to the outside, but harmful interior levels of CO can result from incomplete combustion of fuel, improper installation, or blockages, leaks or cracks in the venting systems. Very high levels of CO can lead to incapacitation or death, with victims sometimes never having been aware they were being poisoned. Homeowners can take action against potential carbon monoxide poisoning by taking the following steps: – Never use a gas stove or oven to heat the home, even temporarily. – Have all fuel-burning appliances professionally inspected annually, preferably before the start of the cold weather season when heaters and furnaces are first used. – These appliances include gas stoves and ovens, furnaces and heaters, water heaters and gas clothes dryers. – All such devices should be properly installed and vented to the outside. – If repairs are necessary, have them performed by a qualified technician.
– Always use the proper fuel specified for the device. – Have flues and chimneys for gas fireplaces inspected regularly for cracks, leaks and blockages that may allow a buildup of CO to occur. – Do not start a vehicle in a closed garage or idle the engine in the garage even when the garage door is open. – Gasoline-powered generators and charcoal grills must never be used indoors. – Purchase a CO detector (either battery operated, hard wired or plug-in) and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper location and installation. -Installation of working CO detectors in residential properties is now required by law in most states. – Learn what to do if the CO alarm activates. If anyone in the home experiences symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, or confusion, everyone should leave immediately and seek medical attention. If no symptoms are felt, open doors and windows immediately and shut off all fuel-burning devices that may be potential sources of CO. Enjoy the comfort and safety of home all year long. Sue Deily has been a Realtor for 35 years, resides in the Upper Bucks County area and enjoys serving her clients in Bucks, Lehigh, and Montgomery Counties. Contact her at suesellshouses@gmail.com or 215-872-9865.
Care and Share Thrift Shoppes Donates $2000 to Shop with a Cop Care and Share Thrift Shoppes donated $2,000 to Quakertown Borough Police Department in support of the 11th Annual Shop with a Cop fundraiser. A check was presented December 1 to Quakertown Borough Police Chief Scott C. McElree and Hilltown Police Chief Christopher Engelhart whose departments have partnered to raise contributions to accommodate 250 children in need this holiday season. “Care and Share is committed to serving
those most at need in our community,” said Bergin. “We are happy to support the good cause sponsored by our local law enforcement.” The donation was raised during Care and Share’s 3rd Annual First Responders week during which fire, police, and emergency personnel received a 50% discount in the thrift shoppes. Shop with a Cop is a national program with the goal of supporting children who have encountered parental unemployment, homelessness, and other hardships.
Police officer James Browne, Donald Rosenberger, Care and Share’s Operations Manager, Officer Robert Lee, Sarah Bergin, Care and Share’s Executive Director, Hilltown Police Chief Christopher Engelhart, Quakertown Borough Police Chief Scott C. McElree and Julie Bender, Quakertown Borough Finance Director. submitted photo
Kersman Recognized for 42 Years of Service as Constable
Constable Jason Searock and Quakertown Borough Council member Mike Johnson with retiring Constable Gary Kersman. Councilman Johnson presented a Borough resolution recognizing Constable Kersman’s “forty-two years of service and assistance to the Courts and Police Departments with faithful and dedicated service”. Constable Kersman has served seven terms since 1980. photo by michele buono
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2022
William F. Kreidenweiss (91) and Claire M. Kreidenweiss (83), of Quakertown, PA both passed away peacefully at Life Quest Nursing Center within four months of each other. From the day they met, they never parted. They both loved gardening, cooking, baking and long walks together. Bill worked as a Farmer for Christ Home Children and Senior Services until he retired, then as a Transport Driver for Pine Run Assisted Living Facility until his second retirement in 1991. He was an American hero emblematic of the greatest generation. He lived his life during his service and every year thereafter with courage rare in humankind. Claire worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant for both Christ Home Children and Senior Services and Pine Run Assisted Living Facility until her retirement in 1991. She gave her life to the service of others in need. Among the words that best describe her are tough, brave, a fighter, but also thoughtful, careful, compassionate and honest. She passionately pursued excellence so that she could help improve the lives of those in her care. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown. www.nauglefcs.com
Ronald “Ron” Eugene Sowers, age 77, of North Wales, previously of Quakertown, passed away on Friday, November 19, 2021, at Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. Born in Quakertown, PA he was a son of the late George W. and Esther (Trout) Sowers. He graduated from Quakertown High School in 1962. He proudly served in the United States Air Force. One of his favorite ways to keep people smiling was to add words of wisdom on the whiteboard. His intent on the day he retired was to write; “Ron has left the building”. A no-frills retirement was what he wanted. Surviving are sisters Charlene Barton and Carol Wackerman. He was predeceased by siblings Jane Meyers, George Sowers, Stan Sowers, and Doris Ziegler. Arrangements are by the Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). Condolences may be made at www.nauglefcs.com. Edward C. Burns, age 72, of East
Greenville,
passed
away
on
November
~Obituaries~
20, 2021, at Pennsburg Manor. Born in Quakertown, he was the son of the late James and Julia (Ziara) Burns. He graduated from Quakertown High School in 1967. He later earned his Bachelor of Science Degree from St. Francis de Sales School in 1971. After graduating college, Edward served in the Coast Guard during the Vietnam War. Edward always enjoyed growing flowers, gardening, and playing the piano. Dancing and music were two favorite pastimes. Edward always had dogs in his life and spent a great deal of time with different types of animals either wild or domestic, especially birds. He loved to decorate especially for Christmas. Survivors: Dennis Burns (Meredith) and Jerome Burns (Jacqueline), and nieces & nephews, Timothy (Stephanie), Julia, Christina (John), Megan (Christopher), Jennifer (Chad), and Justin. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown.
loved fishing and was a very talented artist. He also was an avid Alabama Crimson Tide Football Fan and he never missed a game. In his younger days he loved playing baseball and was extremely gifted. In addition to his wife, Rhea, James is survived by his children, Mandy Hood (Lisa), Jamie Hood (Susan), Jeremy Nunn (Jennifer), Joshua Hood (Lisa), Jessica Pettine (Tim), sister, Mary Hester, 11 grandchildren. He was predeceased by his sister Billie Jones. Services will be held privately at the family’s convenience. Naugle Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Barry D. Stoneback, 65 of Quakertown died Friday November 26, 2021, at St. Luke’s Hospital Upper Bucks Campus. He was the husband of Denise M. (Mirarchi) Stoneback. They celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary last June. Born in Quakertown he was the son of the late Harold E. and Arlene Kason Gunnar Bordner, age 10, of (Fluck) Stoneback. Before his retirement, he Bally, passed away suddenly on November 25, was a supervisor for the former Rosenberger 2021, at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest Dairy in Hatfield. Barry was a member of the in Allentown. Born on January 12, 2011, in First United Church of Christ in Quakertown Sellersville, he was the loving son of Craig where he was a former member of the church Bordner and Jennifer (Fegely) Denny. Kason council and the former secretary-treasurer will be deeply missed. Kason is survived by of the Sunday School program. He enjoyed his parents Craig Bordner and Jennifer Denny hunting, fishing, cooking, baking, gardening, (stepfather Kyle Denny), brother, Donovan, and tending to his farm animals. He was a sister, Lilly, paternal grandparents, Jon and member of the Trumbauersville Lions Club. Susan Bordner, maternal grandmother Carmen He also liked traveling especially his trips to Fegely, uncles and aunt, Nathan Bordner Maine and Ocean City, NJ. He had a love (Kimberly), Jeremy Bordner and Sheena Lilly, for his family, especially his grandchildren. cousins, Kendyl (Trevor and Evelin), Jaydon, In addition to his wife, he is survived by his Trinity, Bentley, Axel, Dakota, Tori, Lindsay, sons, Barry, Jr. (Ashley) Jason (Bayle) Nathan Stephanie, Amanda, William, Maria, Stephen, (Tasha), and Christopher (Paige). Twelve Jr., and Kiah, great uncle Craig A Bordner, grandchildren, Liam, Olivia, Everly, Charlie and great aunts Karen Shelly and Sharon Marie, Reed, Parker, Ford, Brayden, Noah, Marushak. He was predeceased by maternal Hunter, Remington, and Chase. Two sisters, grandfather Noel. Arrangements are by Naugle Rosanne Blackburn, and Cheryl Stoneback. He will also be missed by his dog, Charlie. He Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown. was predeceased by a grandson Nash and two James N. Hood, 76, of Telford, passed brothers Brian and Bruce. A memorial service away Friday, November 26, 2021 at his will be held on Friday, December 3, 2021, at residence surrounded by his loving family. 5:00 p.m. in the First U. C. C. 4th and Park Born in Dora, Alabama in 1945, he was the Avenue Quakertown PA 18951. Call from 3:00 son of the late James and Omie (Parker) Hood. p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the church. Arrangements He was the husband of Rhea (Glenn) Hood, in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. with whom he shared 42 years of marriage. James worked for many years for KenCrest Memorial contributions can be made to Last Services as the manager. In his spare time he Chance Ranch, (www.lastchanceranch.org) 9 Beck Rd. Quakertown PA 18951 or to the Upper Bucks Lions Kidney Foundation, P.O. Box 576 Trumbauersville PA 18970 Dorothea C. Rinker, 95, of Quakertown died November 27, 2021, in her home. She was the wife of the late Paul R. Rinker. Born in Springfield Township, Bucks County she was the daughter of the late John & Violet (Musselman) Berninger. She worked for the former Moore Business Forms in Quakertown from 1967-1988. She loved to travel attending several World Fairs and trips to Bermuda and Canada. Dorothea enjoyed crocheting and was awarded a blue ribbon for her Christmas Afghan at the Allentown Fair. She collected all types of memorabilia and Marmaduke Comics. She loved animals, especially her cat Clawdia. She was a member of St. Isidore’s Catholic Church in Quakertown. Dorothea was a kind, loving, sweet person who spent her life taking care of others. She never had children of her own but spoiled her nieces and nephews and their children. Survived by her nieces and nephews Marie, Billy, Donny, Andrew, Tom, Michael, Louis, Suzanne, Bernard, Diane, & Sandy. She was predeceased by her 5 siblings Marguerite Madle, Marcella Schaffer, John Berninger, Jr., James Berninger, & Ellen Sroka. Services will be held on Friday, December 3, 2021, at 10:30 A.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk. com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. Call 9:30-10:30 A.M. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Last Chance Ranch 9 Beck Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951 or online at www.lastchanceranch.org Winifred “Winnie” Louise Slade, age
86, of Quakertown passed away on December 1, 2021, at home. She was the loving wife of William F. Slade with whom they shared 62 years of marriage. Born in Allentown, she was the daughter of the late William D. and Sophia F. (Niemiec) Weiss. She graduated from Whitehall High School in 1953. She lettered in basketball while in school. Winnie worked as a Customer Service Representative for Verizon. Winnie was a devoted mother and would drop anything she was doing to help her children. She loved taking care of her husband William. Surviving is her children, Stacey L. Buck (Glenn), William Slade, II (Dawn) and Susan L. Herman (John), grandchildren, Jennifer Yorgey, Corinne Buck, and Karen Buck, and five great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions: Bucks County SPCA, 60 Reservoir Road, Quakertown, PA 18951. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, of Quakertown.
Leo C. Ruffing, 77, of Zionsville passed away suddenly Friday, December 3, 2021. Born in Portage in 1944, he was the son of the late James and Kathryn (Baith) Ruffing. He was the husband of Mary (Poronowicz) Ruffing, with whom he shared 52 years of marriage. Leo worked for Merck Pharmaceuticals for over 34 years in several different capacities and, in his spare time and then retirement, he enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors. This included hunting, fishing, archery and 4-wheeling. Leo also enjoyed playing and watching many sports, including baseball, football, hockey and basketball. He loved dining out and playing cards with friends and traveling with his wife, Mary, having traveled all over the United States. Leo is survived by wife, Mary, children Kelley Lynn (Paul) and Leo Ruffing, Jr., (Leigh Ann), siblings Nancy Hipp (Bernard), Jean Browning (Robert), and Jim Ruffing (Jane). He was predeceased by sister Linda Cook. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Lower Milford Township Volunteer Fire Company Number 1, PO Box 1, Limeport, PA 18060. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown. www.nauglefcs.com Joni M. Taylor, 55, of Quakertown formerly of Sellersville and Red Hill died December 3, 2021, in her home. She was the wife of Joseph M. Taylor, III. They were married 28 years last January. Born in Southampton, PA she was the daughter of Betty (Mullins) Hessler of Allentown and the late John J. Fadelsak. She was a caregiver for the elderly and mentally impaired. Joni was a graduate of Pennridge High School. She enjoyed art, drawing, and fishing with her husband. In addition to her husband and mother, she is survived by two sons Mark Fabian (Elizabeth) of Schwenksville and Joseph Taylor, IV (Jennifer) of Souderton. Two brothers John J. Fedelsak, Jr. of Texas, and Robert J. Friedrich (Julie) of Allentown. Four grandchildren Izabelle, Joseph, V., Iris, & Axle. She is also survived by her motherin-law Amelia Taylor of Richlandtown. She was predeceased by a brother William F. Friedrich. Services are pending and in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www. crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the family in care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. at the above address. Michale Hein passed away suddenly on December 4th at his residence. Michale was born in Doylestown, PA to Rosanna Hein. In his younger days Michale was a cub scout & boy scout with troop 55 in Quakertown, Pa. He was a graduate of Quakertown High School. He then attended Bucks County Community College. Michale learned the value of a good work ethic early in life. At a young age he started working at Midguard Inc. in Finland, Pa. From there he went on to work at the Rodon Group in Hatfield, PA for over 30 years. Michale enjoyed going on nature walks and had a great love for animals. He also enjoyed skiing and playing cards, especially poker. Michale loved to take pictures on his travels to places like China, Hawaii, Vegas & California. Michale was a kind, gentle and loving person with a great sense of humor. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. In addition to his Mother, he is survived by one brother, 3 sisters and many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to your local SPCA. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown. www.nauglefcs.com Christopher R. Young, 44, of Doylestown passed away Monday December 6th at Jefferson Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Born in 1977, he was the son of Larry and Sue (Blough) Young. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University (Pennsylvania). He was most recently employed by Derbyshire Marine Products. Chris is survived by his parents, Larry and Sue, brother Marc (Kelli), nephew Styles Martin, uncles, James Blough and Ronald Young (Shaula). He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Leland and Alberta Blough, and his paternal grandparents Ralph and Maxine Young. A Life Celebration will be held Saturday, January 8th at St. Paul’s Lutheran ChurchApplebachsville, 837 Old Bethlehem Rd, Quakertown, PA 18951, at 2:00 PM. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 1-2. In lieu of flowers, for contributions to be given to Quakertown Food Pantry, PO Box
January 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
278, Quakertown, PA 18951 or St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 837 Old Bethlehem Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951 Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown. www.nauglefcs.com
Robert A. Vogel, 84, of Quakertown, passed away Monday, December 6, 2021. Born in Philadelphia in 1937, he was the son of the late Arthur and Alice (Clark) Vogel. He was the husband of Carol Ann Vogel (Rhinesmith) for 19 years. Robert was a graduate of the first graduating class from William Tennent High School. After graduation, he worked as a steamfitter for the former Philadelphia Electric Company for 35 years until his retirement. In his spare time, Robert loved spending time outdoors, particularly hunting, fishing, and camping. He was also an avid reader, and enjoyed vacationing in Cape May, NJ. Robert is survived by his wife, Carol; children, Dorothy Hayes (Michael), Joanne Stratton (Stephen), Wendy Mulreaney (Mark); grandchildren, Dorothy E. (Lloyd), Danielle K. (Chad), Dana L. (Zac), Alison (Dustin), Matthew (Katrina), Thomas (Tina), Robert (Meghan), Bianca; great grandchildren Demi, Maya, Maxwell, Ty, Ella, June, Joel, Hayes; and brothers, James Kirkpatrick (Dorothy) and William Kirkpatrick (Debbie) Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown. www.nauglefcs.com Gerald Edward Kenna, better known as “Jerry”, age 76 of Dublin, PA, entered the presence of his Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, on December 6, 2021. Jerry was born on December 14, 1944, to Charles and Violet Kenna in Philadelphia, PA. As a young man he began working in the mining and quarrying industry, repairing equipment, and building roads. He went on to become a self-employed businessman, consulting and dealing in crushing equipment. In 1966, Jerry married the love of his life, Nancy. He was a devoted, faithful, and loving husband. On September 3, 2021 they celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary. Together they had two daughters, Holly and Melissa. He was affectionately called “Pappy” and dearly loved by his seven grandchildren: Colin, Madeline, Viktor, Anthony, Benjamin, Sofia, and Wesley Maltsev. Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Nancy; his daughters, Holly (Philip) McLanahan and Melissa (Dimitri) Maltsev; his seven grandchildren; and a brother, James (Jeanne) Kenna. He was predeceased by a granddaughter, Kimberly Maltsev. Memorial contributions may be sent to Beams Bible Ministry, 15444 Duckworth Road, Gulfport, MS 39503 or online: www.beamsbibles.com Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown. www.nauglefcs.com
~Obituaries~
may be made to the Bucks County SPCA at P.O. Box 277 Lahaska, PA 18931 or online at buckscountyspca.org Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. of Quakertown. www.nauglefcs.com
Susan Marie “Mama” Hess, age 51,
of Sellersville, passed away suddenly on December 8, 2021. She was the loving wife to Anthony Hess with whom they shared 32 years of marriage. Born on January 10, 1970, in Port Deposit, Maryland, she was the daughter of Eddie McKinney and the late Debra (Cloud) Leight. She graduated from Northeast High School and attended Villanova. Mama loved and took care of everyone. She kept everyone in line, and she was a listening ear when you had a problem or complaint, you could always lean on her. She loved going on motorcycle trips with Tony. In addition to her husband Anthony, she is survived by sons, TJ Hess (Colleen), and Steven Hess (fiance Amber Tittle), grandchildren Rowan and Brynlee, and siblings David (Laura) McKinney and Lisa (Roger) Goodwin. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown. To make online condolences please visit www.nauglefcs.com.
Edna N. (Wampole) Johnson, age 93, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, passed away on December 8, 2021 at Life Quest Nursing Center in Quakertown. She was the wife of the late Floyd Johnson, who died in 2001. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 215-536-3343 of Quakertown. To view her online obituary, please visit www.nauglefcs.com. Cynthia T. Kairewich, 65, of Weatherly died December 9, 2021, in St. Luke’s Hospital Carbon Campus. She was the companion of Charlie Davis and the wife of the late John Kairewich. Born in Princeton, New Jersey she was the daughter of the late Earl Tindall & Martha (Hulse) Welch. She was compassionate about her work as the general manager for Pizza Hut in West Hazelton. Cynthia enjoyed fishing, hunting, & traveling. In addition to loving her dogs dearly, she also had a strong love for her family and friends. In addition to her companion, she is survived by a daughter Shawna Mokes (Christopher Brennan). A brother Kevin Tindall (Lisa) and sister Lisa Tindall. Three step sisters Lynne, Pat, & Pam. Two grandchildren Kyra Wrecsics & Starla Brennan. She was predeceased by a brother Brandon J. Welch. Graveside services will be held on Thursday, December 16, 2021, at 1:30 P.M. at Zion Hill Cemetery 2966 Old Bethlehem Pike, Zion Hill, Pa 18081. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Out of the Darkness Walk online at www.AFSP.org
Joseph Lamar Hartman, age 92, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, passed away Donald P. Knechel, age 85, of peacefully in his sleep on December 10, Quakertown, passed away on December 6, 2021, at his home in Quakertown, PA. He 2021, at the Lutheran Community at Telford. was the devoted husband of Marcella (Davco) Born on November 9, 1936, he was a son of Hartman, with whom he shared over 41 years of the late Paul and Mabel (Walp) Knechel. marriage. Children: James Hartman (Belinda), Donald was a long-time member of East L. Joseph Hartman, Marjorie Swart (Randy), Swamp Church and coached the men’s and Jeffrey Hartman, grandchildren: Holly basketball team. He worked at W. M. Moyer Daughtry (Chris), Jacob, Megan, Stephen, Co, and Landis Meat Co for many years. Michael, and Grant Hartman, Madison Swart, He was elected tax collector in both Milford and William Swart; great-grandchildren, Evan Township and Quakertown borough. He was Daughtry, Trevor Daughtry, and Asher Banks; happy to serve his community for 32 years. stepdaughter Denise Gentile (Jim); stepSurviving are his daughters, Debbie Monts grandchildren, Jessica Lang (Michael), Nicole (Chuck) and Wendy Bradshaw (Scott), Schoch (Christoper); step great-grandchildren, grandchildren, Meagan, Kelsey, Courtney, Corrina Banks, and Jakob Banks. Zachary, Kelly, Chelsea, Lauren, Josh and Contributions in Joe’s memory may be made Daniel, great grandchildren, Judah, Lydia, to American Legion Post 242, 610 E. Broad Nora, Zion, Caleb, Kendra, Noah, Isla, Luke St, Quakertown, PA 18951. Arrangements are and Silas, his beloved sister Gloria Kern, by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 215daughter-in-law Rinnie Knechel Shoup and 536-3343. To view his online obituary please nieces and nephew, Barbara, Beth and Brett. visit www.nauglefcs.com He was predeceased by son Kent Knechel. Memorial Donations may be made in Audrey T. Diller, 88, of Coopersburg, his memory to Smile Train by visiting passed away Friday, December 10, 2021 at www.smiletrain.org LifeQuest in Quakertown, PA. Born in 1933, Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral she was the daughter of the late Francis and & Cremation Service of Quakertown. Margaret (Curran) Klingler. She was the www.nauglefcs.com strength behind her husband, William A. Diller, with whom she shared 70 years of Leanne Marie (Beck) Allen, age 80, marriage. of Milford Square, Pennsylvania, passed away She was a longtime member of Quakertown on December 7, 2021, at Life Quest Nursing United Methodist Church, where she and her Center in Quakertown, PA. She was the wife husband were very active in volunteering. of the late Norman Allen who died in 2015, and She is survived by husband, William with whom she shared 53 years of marriage. A. Diller, children Walter Diller (Andrea Leanne worked as a clerk for St. Mary Hospital Nowell) and Debbie Schulmann (Heinz), sister in Langhorne pa for over 30 years. She enjoyed Margaret Hamilton, grandchildren Michael, family time and her grandchildren. Survived Tricia, and Max, great-grandchildren, Jessica by one son, Allen Clemens, and his wife Amy and Noelle. She was predeceased by her son, of Quakertown, PA; two daughters, Karen William F. Diller. Kinest of Lakeland FL and Debbie Sargent of Services will be held privately at the family’s Virginia; nine grandchildren and two great- convenience. Naugle Funeral & Cremation grandchildren. Services and interment will be Service has been entrusted with the arrangements. held privately. Contributions in her memory In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions
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may be made to Jerusalem House Ministries, 202 N Ninth St, Allentown, PA 18102, or Quakertown United Methodist Church, 1875 Freier Rd, Quakertown, PA 18951.
service was held on Monday, December 20, 2021 in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.
Stephen Alexander Timm, age 52, of Quakertown on December 10, 2021, at St. Luke’s Hospice House. Husband of Carol DeFazio Timm, with whom he shared 16 years of marriage. Born in Berkeley, CA he was a son of Neil Timm of The Villages FL, and Margaret Alexander Timm of Tennessee. Graduated from Butler High School in 1987 and California University of Pennsylvania in 1991 with a BS in Science. He then attended Pennsylvania State University where he earned his Masters in Environmental Pollution Control in 1996. He was Global Manager for Albea Group, an Environmental Health & Safety company for many years. He had certifications for CSP and ASP. In addition to his wife and parents, he is survived by two sons, Gabriel and Michael, and one brother, Bill Timm. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown. www.nauglefcs.com.
Verna M. Smith, 94, of Quakertown, died Sunday, December 12, 2021, in her home. She was the wife of the late Charles O. Smith. Born in Coopersburg she was the daughter of the late John and Katie (Frick) Meyers. She was a lifetime member of St. John’s United Church of Christ in Coopersburg. Verna also enjoyed bowling. She is survived by a son Randall T. Smith (Mary Ann) of Quakertown and daughter Patti A. Pace (Layton) of Somerton, AZ. Eight grandchildren, Kelly Cassidy (Brett), Eric Smith (Lauren), Scott Alexander (Amanda), Dawn Alexander (Jeffrey Heimburger), Brooke McBride (Patrick), Gideon Pace, Aubrey Surprise, and Caleb Pace. 13 greatgrandchildren. She is also survived by two brothers, James Meyers of Coopersburg and John Meyers of Davenport FL. She was predeceased by a sister Grace Bauman and two brothers Roy Meyers and Paul Meyers. Services were Wednesday, December 29, 2021, at 11:00 AM at St. John’s U. C. C. 538 Thomas St. Coopersburg PA 19036.Arrangements in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk. com) Quakertown, PA. Memorial contributions can be made to St. John’s U. C. C. 538 Thomas St. Coopersburg PA 19036.
Charles W. Mengle, Jr., 65 of Souderton died Friday, December 10, 2021, in Grand View Hospital, Sellersville. He was the husband of Michele (Mirarchi) Mengle. They celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary in August. Born in Allentown he was the son of the late Charles and Gloria (Kunkle) Mengle. Charlie was employed by Grand View Medical Company as a supervisory service technician for 35 years. He was an avid Hot Wheels collector, enjoyed watching car racing, and attended the annual Wheels of Time Rod and Custom Jamboree. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son Charles Mengle, III (Kim) and a daughter, Heather VanDeMark (Michael). He was a beloved Pop-Pop to his seven grandchildren, Carter, Charlotte, Cameron, Charles IV, Lucas, Lauren, and Owen. He is also survived by his two sisters, Edna (Barry) Csuvay and Marlene (David) Shelly. His dog, Rocco, will miss going on car rides with him. There will be no formal service. His family will greet family and friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday evening December 16, 2021, in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown PA 18951. Memorial contributions can be made to Grand View Health Hospice, 700 Lawn Ave. Sellersville PA 18960 or to the American Diabetes Foundation, 150 Monument Rd., Suite 100 Bala Cynwyd PA 19004. James E. Hartzell, 74, of Quakertown, formerly of Havertown died December 11, 2021, in Quakertown Center. He was the husband of Carol Ann (Rizzo) Beaumont Hartzell. They were married 33 years last October. Born in Philadelphia he was the son of the late John I. & Mary E. (Hunton) Hartzell. He was a self-employed travel salesman. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children James, Jr. (Amanda), Trisha Brady (Brian), and three grandchildren Macy, Samantha, & Trevor. His stepchildren are Harry Beaumont (Angie), Dennis Beaumont (Sue), and his step-grandchildren are Ashley, Allyson, Lyanna & Matthew. He was predeceased by a son Daniel, a stepson Scott, and a step-grandchild Megan. Services to be announced at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com). Emily M. Surman, 94 of Quakertown died Saturday, December 11, 2021, in St. Luke’s Hospital Upper Bucks Campus. She was the wife of the late Louis Surman. Born in Springtown she was the daughter of the late Frank and Verna Feikel. She was an antique dealer at Renninger’s Antique and Farmers’ Market in Kutztown. She and her late husband also owned and operated Surman’s metal recycling. She is survived by a son Charles L. Surman (Connie) of Center Valley. Five grandchildren Chaz, Chadwick, Kenneth, Crystal, and Amber, and five greatgrandchildren, Nathan, Cole, Lincoln, Remy, and Brooklyn. She was predeceased by a son Kenneth L. Surman. Services were held on Monday, December 20, 2021 in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown PA 18951. Pauline Hippeli, 82, of Quakertown died December 12, 2021, in St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus. She was the wife of the late David L. Hippeli. Born in Marlborough Township she was the daughter of the late Paul & Marian (Cressman) Nyce. She enjoyed doing crossword and jigsaw puzzles. She also enjoyed playing games. She is survived by two brothers Ronald Nyce (Nancy) and Harold Nyce (Mary Lou) and a sister Eva Albitz. Many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her six siblings Eleanor, Paul, Gladys, Jean, Robert, and Larry. A memorial
Mary Ellis, 104, of Quakertown died Monday, December 13, 2021, in Independence Court, Quakertown. She was the wife of the late George E. Ellis. Born in Blue Bell she was the daughter of the late Vincenzo and Annunziata (Bonacci) Catrambone. Mary worked in the admissions department at Fox Chase Hospital and after her retirement continued to volunteer at the hospital for 28 years. She was a member of St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church in Philadelphia where she sang in the choir for 26 years and was a former treasurer. She enjoyed crocheting. Mary is survived by her children, Bruce Ellis (Marie) of Souderton, Jackie Riche of Hampton, NJ, and Georgie Lewandowski (Bob) of Winthrop, ME. 7 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren. One of 14 children in her family she was last to pass. Services will be announced at a later date. Arrangements in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown PA Jacob Stanley Wimmer, 91, of Sellersville died December 15, 2021 at his home. He was the husband of the late Mary Grace (Kramer) Wimmer. Born in Milford Twp Bucks Co PA, he was the son of the late Uriah & Mamie (Hallman) Wimmer. He was a Korean War veteran, serving with the US Marine Corps. He was employed by Mayer’s Well Drilling. He was a founding and lifelong member of the Milford Township Fish, Game, and Forestry Association and was an avid hunter and fisherman. Jake enjoyed gardening, doing puzzles, watching Westerns and feeding his birds. He attended the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Zion Hill, PA. He is survived by a sister Aquila Palladio, a nephew Timothy DeLong Jr. and numerous other nieces and nephews. Predeceased by brothers, Uriah, Kenneth, and Larry Wimmer and sisters, Viola, Donna, Almeda, Virginia, Mildred, and Pearl. C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) is handling arrangements. Wasley Smakula, 92, of Weatherly, PA died December 17, 2021, in Lehigh Valley Hospital Hazelton. He was the husband of the late Margaret Ann (Hagen) Smakula. Born in Perkasie, Pa he was the son of the late Michael & Sophia (Kotko) Smakula. He was a finisher for the former Riegel Paper Mill in Riegelsville before retiring. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, bird watching, and all things related to nature. Wasley was a member of the Forrest Lodge VFW Post #245 in Sellersville. He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran serving during the Korean War. He is survived by two daughters Deborah Hetherington and Julia Ryan (Michael). A sister Julia Detweiler ( William). Eight grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by three sons John, Michael, and David, and two grandchildren. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association 399 Market St., Suite 102 Philadelphia, PA 19106.
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2022
Fred W. Olsen, Jr. of Coopersburg passed away peacefully in his home on December 18, 2021, surrounded by family while James Brown and Janis Joplin played him into the afterlife. Fred was born in New York, NY on March 29, 1934. He married his girlfriend Mary and had one son while serving in the Army. He tragically lost Mary at a very young age. He found love again with JoAnne. The two celebrated their 51st anniversary this Fall. Together they had another four children and many adventures in between. Fred was a long-time employee of PECO and retired into a part-time job at Cress Gas. He was a one-time flight instructor and amateur pilot. Fred is survived by his wife, JoAnne; his 5 children Fred III, Kirsten and her husband Douglas Jr., Jocelyn, Daniella and her husband Brian, Christian and his wife Nina; Grandchildren Fred IV and his husband Dan, Melissa, Nicola, Harrison, Capella, Charlotte, Douglas III, step-granddaughter Julia; Great Grandsons Graeme, Tyler; Sister Lois; and countless friends and family, many of whom considered him a second father. His path to the afterlife was well worn with the souls of his many friends and family who predeceased him, including his and JoAnne’s twin sons. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Fred’s name to either the EAA Aviation Foundation www.eaa.org or The Alzheimer’s Association www.alz.org. A celebration of life is planned for the Spring. Kermit D. Nester, 84, of Quakertown, PA, went home to glory, Sunday, December 19, 2021, at St. Luke’s Hospital - Allentown Campus. Born in 1936, he was the son of the late Elmer and Mabel (Fegley) Nester. He was the husband of Jean Nester (Frei), with whom
~Obituaries~
he shared 61 years of marriage. Kermit honorably served his country in the United States Army. After his service, he worked for many years as a machinist for many different companies. Kermit was a long-time, active member at Flatland Church, Quakertown, PA. He was also an active and dedicated volunteer for Operation Christmas Child and Mennonite Disaster Service. He also lent his talents singing for the Zion Choral Society for over 40 years. In addition to his wife Jean, Kermit is survived by daughter Rebecca Witt (Harry), son, Dale Nester, sisters, Annabelle Buss and Mae Nicholas, grandchildren, Ashley, Kaitlyn, Harry (Bud), Kelsey, Allison, and Autumn, great-grandchildren, Chloe, Jordan, Landon, Odin, Elam, Rhett, Magdelina, and Dawson. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Camp Men-O-Lan, 1415 Doerr Rd, Quakertown, PA 18951 or Operation Christmas Child, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service www.nauglefcs.com
Alan D. Hallowell, age 65, of Coopersburg passed away peacefully at his home on December 20, 2021. He was the loving husband of Barbara (Heller) Hallowell with whom he shared 32 years of marriage. Born in Allentown, he was a son of the late Ronald D. and Martha V. (Bast) Hallowell. Alan cherished his wife, Barbara, his daughters Kelly Hallowell and Sandra Yaich, and his siblings Chris Hallowell and Darren Hallowell. He was a loving brother-in-law to Deb and Gary Haas, Rick and Michele Heller, and Theresa Hallowell as well as the loving nephew of Walter and Marie Hallowell, Donald and Lynn Heller and Nancy McKinney. Alan was known as their fun uncle by Ryan
and Abby Haas, Katie and Nick Pidstawski, Sarah Heller, Freddy Heller, Jen and Maggie Hallowell, Matt Hallowell, and Christopher Hallowell. Alan was a GREAT Great-Uncle to Bella Sanders, Owen Haas, Peter Woolf, Livie Haas, Henry Woolf, Nicholas Pidstawski and Benjamin Pidstawski. Alan enjoyed his time with his many cousins and those family members who passed before him. Alan made friends with everyone he met (2-legged and 4-legged) and treasured those friendships. Besides spending time with his family, Alan was a lover of sports (Go Broncos, Flyers, and Phillies), loud music, fishing, racing, kite flying, playing in the snow, and vacations. He was a member of the Mercantile Club in Emmaus and a Life Member of Coopersburg Fire Company Social Quarters. Though Alan was a dedicated employee to each company for whom he worked since he was a teenager, he most recently worked at Pratt/Impress Manufacturing. Raised in Coopersburg, Alan was a graduate of Southern Lehigh High School and loved the burg! In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to National Greyhound Adoption Program, 10901 Dutton Road, Philadelphia, PA 19154. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service www.nauglefcs.com
Robert “Bob” J. Boyle, 53, of Quakertown died December 20, 2021, in his home. He was the husband of Wendy G. (Wile) Boyle. They were married 13 years last April. Born in Kearny, NJ he was the son of Joseph & Norma (Smith) Boyle of Wellford, SC. He was last employed as a porter at Johanna Foods in Flemington, NJ, prior to that he worked at the former Ideal Industries in Hacketstown, NJ. Bob played the drums for 40 plus years, playing at his former churches. He enjoyed photography and making videos. He was also known as a practical joker. He was a member of the Living Hope Community Church in Perkasie (Dublin). In addition to his wife and parents, he is survived by a brother Joseph B. and his wife Tracey of Hopatcong, NJ. His dog Amber and cat Liam. Services are pending. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Cancer Treatment Centers of America www.cancercenter.com or to Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson Hospital www. sidneykimmelcancercenter.jeffersonhealth.org or 233 S. 10th St. Philadelphia, PA 19107 Stephen F. Marquardt, 55, of Perkasie died December 20, 2021, in Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest. Born in Raritan Township, Hunterdon County, NJ, he was the son of Clarence Stephen & Lorraine C. (Buskirk) Marquardt. He enjoyed shredding paper and was a shredding assistant at BARC before his retirement. He enjoyed music and was an avid CD collector. He also enjoyed the polka and the chicken dance. Stephen enjoyed traveling and especially Disney Cruises. He was a member of the Residential Activities Committee at BARC. In addition to his parents, he is survived by a sister Noreen Conrad, her husband Marty, and his BARC family. He will also be missed by his special friend of 26 years Mary Judd.
Services were held on Monday, December 27, 2021 in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to BARC Developmental Services 1448 S. Old Bethlehem Pike Quakertown, PA 18951.
Verna Irene (Meyers) Hinkle, age 91, of Quakertown, Richland Twp., Pennsylvania, passed away on December 21, 2021 at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Bethlehem, PA. Born in Quakertown, PA she was a daughter of the late William Meyers and the late Estella Trumbauer Meyers. Verna was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church for many years. Her passion was taking care of and loving her husband and children. She will be remembered for her famous funny cake, meat pie, and walnut cake. She was the wife of the late Leidy Hinkle, who died in 1996, with whom she shared 47 years of marriage. She is survived by two sons, Richard Hinkle and his fiance Marian Wolf of Quakertown, Gary Hinkle and his wife Angie of Quakertown; one daughter, Carol Hinkle of Quakertown. Seven grandchildren, Amy, Krista, Caryn, Casey, Ashley, Jason and David and 4 great-grandchildren, 2 step great-grandchildren and 4 step great- greatgrandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by five brothers, Howard, William, Gerald, Earl and Stanley, and five sisters, Naomi, Anna, Edith, Althea, and Lila. Contributions in her memory may be made to Quakertown Food Pantry, PO Box 278 Quakertown, PA 18951. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service www.nauglefcs.com Elisabeth “Lis” Crossan, age 62, of Coopersburg, PA passed away on Sunday, December 26th in her home surrounded by those she loved after celebrating her favorite holiday, Christmas. Born on February 7, 1959 she was the daughter of Matthias “Matt” Huprich and Elisabeth Huprich. Lis loved being a wife, a mom to her girls, a GiGi and a friend. Lis managed the South Mall Mercantile and was passionate about her work. Above all, she loved spending time with her family. Lis had the ability to make everyone she came in contact with feel special. Her laugh and silliness were contagious. She is survived by her husband of 25 years, Wallace “Wally” Crossan; her daughters, Lauren Scholler, Samantha “Sam” Kale (husband, Trevor Kale), Alexa Crossan and Shannon Crossan; her grandson, Chase Kale; her mother, Elisabeth Huprich; her brother, John Huprich and fur babies, Bella, Faith “Nugget” and Mikey. A Life Celebration will be held Sunday, January 2nd, 2021 at 2:00 PM at Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 135 W. Pumping Station Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951. A viewing will be held prior to the service, from 1:00-2:00. Memorial Contributions may be made to Last Chance Ranch or the American Cancer Society. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service www.nauglefcs.com
Advocates for the Homeless of Upper Bucks Seeks Volunteers Volunteers are needed to support the mission of the Advocates for the Homeless of Upper Bucks (AHUB). AHUB is a non-profit organization which serves the needs of the homeless of the Quakertown, Pennridge, and the Palisades areas. One program under AHUB is a volunteer staffed community ministry called Code Blue which provides shelter and a warm bed and meal to the homeless of Upper Bucks County on cold winter nights when the temperature is 26 degrees or below. This homeless shelter is located at the Masonic Lodge in downtown Quakertown, PA. After a very successful eight years for the program, we hope to broaden our volunteer
base for this upcoming winter. Opportunities include: Shelter Admissions staff, Overnight staff, Morning Aide, and more. Season runs from November 15, 2021 to April 15, 2022. Please consider volunteering with AHUB. Contact us at ahubpa@gmail.com to learn about opportunities. You can also reach us at 215-536-5166, but e-mail is preferred. AHUB will ensure COVID-19 protocols are in place at the shelter in order to provide a level of safety for both volunteers and guests. This will include regular disinfection of the shelter. Mandates for masks will be put into place as well. Partitions & sneeze guards will be used to insure social distancing.
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Buckygrams: snowy egret, flamingo, ostrich, emu, white ibis, sandpiper, great blue heron, wood stork, whooping crane, roseate spoonbill, jabiru, sandhill crane Hidden Message: “Don’t forget to fill your feeders!” Bucky Block: Out with the old, in witn the new!
American Legion Post 242 Update In these times of uncertainty we look at each year as a new beginning. The year 2020, because of the advent of Covid-19 was a year of frustration and anxiety for individuals, families and communities. It was a year of literal survival. We adhered to the restrictions as they occurred. During that time some of our members devoted hundreds of hours refurbishing our meeting area and our canteen. As we were able, we opened up our building to meetings and limited use of our canteen. One of the big highlights was our “smoking” restriction to try to bring more people into our facility. Our programs flourished with limited canteen opening rules and our drawings were able to happen so we could “give back” to our Veterans and community children programs. The year 2021 was quite successful as was noted by our well attended Memorial Day Parade and Program, Our Patriots Day (Sept 11th remembrance), and our participation in the community Veterans Program held down at Pennridge Middle School on November 11th. We were busy on Memorial Day as we also had participation in a special motorcycle rally from Quakertown to the Post outside of East Greenville held by the “Sons of the Legion.” Added this year also on November 11th was a special afternoon program at Naugle’s Funeral Facility in Richland Township to dedicate their Flagpole and honor the 100th anniversary of the dedication of “The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier” in Washington D.C. Because of your support in our two drawings (Veterans in spring and Children’s Programs
in fall) we were able to substantially increase our giving to the community. We supplied the funds for veterans at our local facility in Montgomery County in two ways. Early at a Special Event day we helped pay for an Ice Cream Wagon so the veterans could enjoy this special treat on their special day. We were able to give over $900.00 in gift certificates as well as Christmas gifts to these same folks so they too could have a Happy Holiday. Speaking of Christmas our Children’s program gave a bit over $1000.00 to the popular “Shop with a Cop” program. Our Sons of the Legion that is also very active gave generously to this same program. For over 100 years, this organization here in Quakertown is still alive and well, despite setbacks such as Covid-19. I am proud to be called “A Legionnaire!” My fellow members and I once served our society and community by dedicating a period of our life totally to protect this “Land of the Free and Home of the Brave.” We now dedicate our time and money to help those in need in our community who have a need. Let us not forget those who will be there to protect us on Christmas Day as we open gifts and share time with our families. Pray for them and always remember them in their time of need. Ain’t it great to be “An American?” Thank you for your support of this organization and my hope is that you will remember us by supporting our programs in 2022. I hope you had a Merry Christmas and may we all be blessed with a “Happy New Year!” ~ Dick Helm
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local. American Legion Post 242 Commander Ron Murray (right) presents a check for $1050 to Quakertown Police officer Pat McTear to support the Shop with a Cop project. submitted photo
Doan Distillery, Care & Share Donate $2400 for Former Bush House Residents
Care and Share Thrift Shoppes of Souderton and Doan Distillery of Quakertown donated $2,400 to Bucks County Opportunity Council November 30. A contribution of $1,200 was made by both businesses. The donation was made in gift cards to Care and Share Thrift Shoppes for the displaced residents of the Bush House in Quakertown. Dozens of occupants that called the Bush House Hotel home were forced to leave the building when it was deemed unfit for human occupancy and condemned by the Borough of Quakertown. The building remains closed and displaced residents that accepted assistance from the borough and county agencies were temporarily relocated to safe living conditions in area hotels. Sarah Bergin, Care and Share Thrift Shoppes’ Executive Director and Donald Rosenberger, Care and Share Thrift
Shoppes’ Operations Manager, were joined by Christopher LaBonge, co-owner of Doan Distillery, to present the gift cards at an event held at the Trolley Barn Public Market in Quakertown. Erin Lukoss, Bucks County Opportunity Council Executive Director, and Joseph Cuozzo, Development Director, were in attendance to receive the donation. “I like to reflect on the name our founders gave our organization,” said Bergin. “From the beginning, our mission is to care for others and share our resources with both our community and the rest of the world. We are proud to provide community members with gift cards to choose the high quality items they need.” Contributions from Doan Distillery were raised from the sale of Quakerade, classic lemon-flavored lemonade craft cocktail available for purchase at the distillery.
(left to right): Donald Rosenberger, Christopher LaBonge, Joseph Cuozzo, Sarah Bergin, Erin Lukoss) photo by christopher betz
Train Your Dog to Take Treats Gently Dogs who are highly treat-motivated can be very difficult to reward without losing a finger. Large dogs and puppies often don’t know their own strength. That’s why it’s critical that the very first thing any dog learns is how to take a treat gently. I tell my clients that treat delivery is important. If you bend your knees, then quickly pop the treat to the lips it will keep your dog from jumping to meet your hand. Teaching “be nice” is a very important command in training. Some people also say “easy”, “gentle” or “calm”. A hungry dog rarely has the patience for learning (just like kids) if his stomach is grumbling. So feed your dog and then wait 30 minutes before trying to work with him. Hold a treat in the palm of your hand much like you would give a treat to a horse. The goal is to be able to cut off access to the treat quickly if he tries to snap it. Close your fist around the treat and let him sniff. The goal is to let him know you have a treat without officially offering it. Say “be nice” as you do so. If your dog is highly food-motivated, he might lick or even “mouth” your hand – if he attempts to bite or snap at you, see below. This is a no-no. Simply remove your hand until he
calms down. Once he has accepted that you won’t be offering the treat, you can show it to him again. For Highly Treat-Motivated Dogs Occasionally, you will find that your dog does not respond to the treat in hand trick or he might be more reactive than most dogs. If this is the case, you’ll want to take a different approach. 1. Put a bit of peanut butter on a big metal spoon, and then place the treat in the peanut butter. 2. Offer the treat to your dog and say “be nice.” 3. As soon as you see your dog becoming too aggressive in taking the treat, pull the spoon away. The peanut butter acts as a stabilizer so the treat doesn’t fall off when you offer it to him. 4. Repeat this activity using the “be nice” command until he has calmed enough to take it gently. Training a dog to take a treat gently takes practice. The goal is for your dog to realize that he will not receive a treat unless he takes it gently.! Submitted by Marion C. O’Neil CPDT-KA, CTDI, owner and instructor for Molasses Creek Dog Training, LLC, Quakertown. She www.molassescreekdogtraining.com
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2022
Cops Connecting with Kids ~ 11 Years of Shop with a Cop At the event, each child was paired with a police officer and given a $150 gift card to purchase gifts for themselves and their family members at the Richland Township Walmart. Children also received meals to take home and a school backpack full of essential items and school supplies. While the children are shopping, parents were given $100 to shop for gifts and home items. A small army of volunteers act as support for the effort. They help get the kids registered and partnered with officers through the check out process with their gift purchases and safely back with their parents or guardians. Officer Bob Lee of the Quakertown Police Department initiated the Borough’s Shop with a Cop program 11 years ago. He had read an article about a Shop with a Cop program in Chester County and contacted the department for insight. Officer Lee and fellow officer Ryan Naugle went door-to-door canvassing for donations from local businesses and non-profit organizations. That year there were just over a dozen participating children. Officer Lee says about the program, ““We understand from working in this community there are many hardships. Doesn’t always mean financial, could be a loss of a parent, or health issues. There are some children that don’t get a solid Christmas. We are glad that we can bring Christmas joy to those children and families. After all isn’t what were about giving back to
our community.” Over 60 officers from 15 local law enforcement agencies joined forces to make this year’s Shop with a Cop Program possible. Participating departments include Quakertown Borough, Bedminster Township, Dublin Borough, Hilltown Township, Marlborough Township, Newtown Township, PA Fish and Boat Commission, PA Game Commission, PA State Police, Perkasie Borough, Pennridge Regional, Richland Township, Springfield Township, Upper Saucon Township, and Warwick Township. Multiple departments also partnered with the Quakertown Shop with a Cop Program by sponsoring families in their own community. Scott McElree, Chief of Police for Quakertown Borough Police Department stated, “Shop with a is an event our officers look forward to each year. Not only does this event provide children with a better holiday, but it is also an opportunity for them to see law enforcement officers in a positive light and create positive relationships with one another. It’s an experience they will never forget.” Officer Lee, who serves as a School Resource Officer, agrees, “Students will come back to me 10 years later and remember me from the event.” He went on to remark that he and the other officers deeply appreciate the community support and the importance of building positive societal and personal connections.
Quakertown’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting filled the Borough’s downtown with the holiday spirit. Thousands characters from UBFP joined the fun. The Christmas Tree was lit with the help of Quakertown Community High S always, by cheerleaders. photos by michele buono, christopher betz
s enjoyed the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus, a live Nativity, carolers, even Captain America, Thor, and the School football coach George Banas, who was flanked by his record-winning football team and supported, as
January 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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What are you most excited for in the New Year? Interviews by Nicole Pasciuti
Hailey Kuliga, 16
Ryleigh Quinn, 17
“I am excited to go to my parent’s beach house this summer.”
“I am excited to go to college and meet new people.”
Erin Campbell, 14
James Moyer
“I am excited about further academic success”
“I am excited to see my daughter from California.”
Michelle Barratt, 16
Tyler Kitchenman
“I am excited to go snowboarding”
“I am excited to finish my novel.”
Quakertown Borough
Quakertown Borough
Quakertown Borough
Quakertown Borough
Doylestown Borough
Levittown Borough
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2022
Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship Bible Baptist Church Meets at HIghland Park Dining Hall 415 Highland Park Road Sellersville, PA 18960 484-523-3333 www.biblebaptistcares.org Pastor: Tom Harris Bible Study Hour 9:30 am, Morning Worship 10:30 am, Services interpreted for the deaf Christ Church United Church of Christ 101 N. Main Street Trumbauersville, PA 18970 215-538-0142 christchurch10@verizon.net www.christchurchisalive.org Pastor: David Heckler A friendly, welcoming church. Change fear into hope, doubt into faith. God is calling. Join us at 11am Sunday. Halleleujah! Christ’s Lutheran Church 1 Luther Lane Trumbauersville, PA 18970 215-536-3193 christselca@verizon.net www.christslutheran.com Interim Pastor: Rev. Susan Lang 9:00am Worship, 10:15 Sunday School Handicapped accessible, Family Friendly Church. Find us on Facebook! Church of the Incarnation 44 S. 8th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-3787 Ardores@verizon.net www.IncarnationQuakertown.org Pastor: Most Rev. Thomas J. Kleppinger Traditional worship, Biblical faith Sunday 10:30am, Holy Days as announced. Emmanuel Episcopal Church 560 S. Main Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-3040 emmanuelchurch11@yahoo.com www.emmanuelquakertown.org Sunday service at 10am, Visitors and new members always welcome!
BY PASTOR DAVE HECKLER As we begin this new year, many of our faith communities are moving from the pageantry of the Christmas season to the season of Epiphany. The word “epiphany” means “manifestation”, and the season of Epiphany is all about the ways Jesus’ life and ministry reveal Him to be something more than just another itinerant preacher or healer— indeed, to be “God in flesh made manifest”. And the Feast of the Epiphany that begins the season recalls the story of Jesus being “manifested by the star to the sages from afar”, “the star of Bethlehem” which draws “the [three] Wise Men” who follow that star from the East to find “the one born king of the Jews”. Of course, our attentions and traditions are usually drawn to the more exotic elements of the story: the unusual star appearing in the heavens, the “kings” who interpret that stellar appearance as a sign of the birth of a king,
First United Church of Christ Fourth Street & Park Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4447 info@firstUCC.net www.firstUCC.net Facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertown Co-Pastors: Douglas & Joyce Donigian Traditional worship Sunday 9:15am, Contemporary Service 11:45am, Alternative worship Sunday 5:15pm, Community dinners every 3rd Thursday 5:30pm Good News Church 424 Juniper Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4393 Pastor: David Markey, Jr. An alternative to the ultra-contemporary Sunday Worship and Children’s Church 10:30 am, Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm, World Evangelism Fellowship affiliate. Grace Bible Fellowship Church 1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N. Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-6096 grace@quakertownbfc.org www.quakertownbfc.org Sr. Pastor: Ron Kohl Sunday School for all ages. 10:10am Morning Worship, Small group meetings 2nd & 4th Sundays 6:30pm; Tues: Ladies Bible Study 9:45am; Wed: AWANA (2 yrs - 6th grade) & Teens for Christ 6:30pm, Adult prayer meeting 6:45pm Juniper Street Bible Church 317 Juniper Street Quakertown, PA 18951 267-373-9115 Pastor: Bob Stevenson www.juniperstreetbiblechurch.org Sunday worship 10am (also watch live on our Facebook page), Tuesday 7pm Bible study and prayer. We offer an invitation to you. Come and worship with us. Morning Star Fellowship 429 S. 9th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-529-6422 Pastors: John & Theresa Decker www.mstarqtown.org Sunday Services at 9 am and 11 am. Our cafe is open with free coffee. Children’s Ministries provided. Celebrate Recovery on Tuesdays at 7 pm. Student Ministries on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. Weekly Connections. For updates and schedule changes, check our website.
our nativity scenes and Christmas pageants, and our Orthodox and Latinx brothers and sisters know how to work these images into a great celebration… But like Luke’s classic Christmas story [Luke 2.1-20], Matthew’s classic Epiphany story has its share of inconvenient realities. We like the idea of “three kings” until we find that the text never mentions how many of them there were and calls them “magi”, not kings (they were likely Persian astrologers and diplomats cultivating good relations with Roman colonies just to keep the Romans off balance— and the Jewish people despised Gentile astrologers). We enjoy identifying Herod the Great as the villain of the story, not recognizing our own strange attraction to pathological narcissists in high places. We’re glad that the Magi finally find the child Jesus in Bethlehem and give Him their gifts; and when Herod decides to butcher the children of Bethlehem in an attempt to wipe out his potential competition, we breathe a sign
“The object of a new year is not that we should have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul.” - G. K. Chesterton and the strange gifts they bring in tribute to him. (Gold, frankincense, and myrrh? Why not fresh diapers, plenty of formula, and casseroles for the week, as the classic meme suggests?) They make for great additions to
of relief when Jesus and His family get out of town in time to escape the slaughter— until we realize that there are thousands of families just like the Holy Family who are fleeing the very same sort of violence today, and we seldom
Palisades Community Bible Church 8730 Easton Road Revere, PA 18953 610-847-2637 secretary@pcbchurch.com www.pcbchurch.com Pastor: Rev. Corbin Seltzer, Jr. Sunday School (all ages) 9:30am, Sunday Morning Worship 10:30am, Tuesday Prayer Meeting 7:00pm, Men & Ladies’ Bible Studies - see website. “Walk by Faith.” II Cor. 5:7 Quakertown United Methodist Church 1875 Freier Road Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4992 barb@qumc.com www.qumc.com Pastor: Rev. Richard K. Brown II Sunday schedule: Worship 8:30 am, Sunday School 9:45 am, Worship 11 am Communion first Sunday of each month. Richland Friends Meeting (Quaker) Main St at Mill Rd & Park Ave Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-7555 Friends@RichlandQuakers.org www.RichlandQuakers.org Clerk: Jack H. Schick Non-Denominational guided meditations Wed, 7pm Sunday worship 10:30am “Absolute freedom of thought and worship is our faith and practice.” St. Isidore Roman Catholic Church 2545 West Pumping Station Rd Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536-4389 Pastor: Rev. Kenneth C. Brabazon izzyparoff@comcast.net www.stisidores.org Sunday Masses - 5:00pm Saturday evenings; 7:00am, 9:00am, & 11:00am on Sunday mornings; 1:00pm in Spanish Sunday afternoons St. John’s Lutheran Church 4 South Main Street • PO Box 459 Richlandtown, PA 18955 215-536-5027 Admin@stjohnsrpa.org www.stjohnsrpa.org Pastor: Rev Dr. David A Genszler In person worship service Sunday at 9:30 am, Watch our Worship Service anytime on stjohnsrpa.org/sermon or on Facebook. Activity Center Rentals Open, Capacity 125, call 215-536-5027 to book.
St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown 1565 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Spinnerstown 18968 215-536-0734 stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org Pastor: The Rev. Axel Kaegler Worship Service: 9:30 a.m. Service also will be live-streamed on Facebook (St. John’s Lutheran Church, Spinnerstown, PA) and video will be available on church website. Check website for updated COVID guidelines. St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley 910 Allentown Road, West Rockhill Twp 215-257-9643 stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com www.stjohnsridgevalley.com 8:30am Traditional - 10:15am w/praise band. Grape juice & gluten-free wafers available. Adult Forum 9:40, Handicapped accessible. All invited and welcome to Share the Joy! St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Applebachsville 837 Old Bethlehem Road, Quakertown 215-536-5789 stpaulsqtown@gmail.com www.stpaulsqtown.org Pastor: Rev. David Heckler We believe in sharing God’s love in joyful service. Come and see. All are welcome. St. Paul’s United Church of Christ 104 Green Street Sellersville, PA 18960 215-257-7268 Pastor: Rev. Trudy Irving stacey@stpaulsucc.net www.stpaulsucc.net Sunday Worship 10:15 in Sanctuary Springfield Mennonite Church 1905 Pleasant View Road Coopersburg PA 18036 267-999-1404 Pastor: Joseph Wames pastorjoe@springfieldmennonite.org www.springfieldmennonite.org Join us at 10:15a Sunday Mornings for a Blended Worship Service, Multi-generational, loving congregation. Biblically and Doctrinally Sound. Trinity Lutheran Church 102 N. Hellertown Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536.4345 www.trinityquakertown.org Pastor: Dayle Malloy 9 a.m. Traditional service, 11 a.m. Contemporary Service, 10: 15 a.m. Sunday School, Handicap accessible, Family Friendly, Dynamic Music Ministry, Living God’s Love for All
care for them. And there’s one other detail of the story that we often gloss over: When the Magi finally find Jesus, they don’t find Him in Bethlehem as a baby in a stable; they find Him as a child in “the house” [Matthew 2.11]. Apparently, whichever family or families made room in their home for Jesus to be born allowed Jesus and His family to remain there for quite a while, perhaps as long as two years [see verse 16]. They took the risk of sharing their home with strangers in need… and God was made manifest among them in Christ as one of those strangers. I wrote an editorial last month about the November 10 evacuation of the Bush House and the ongoing labors of a small army of social workers, case managers, community volunteers, pastors, churches, and even county commissioners to provide for their needs in this emergency and help them transition to more stable, affordable housing, surrounded by the support services they need not only to survive, but to thrive. Our efforts to assist these neighbors in need continues slowly but surely, and we’re in it for the long haul; and neighbors who’d seldom received services in the past are now receiving them— but there’s one thing we’re desperately lacking: decent affordable housing and landlords willing to risk providing it. Because of the availability of COVID relief funds, our county can provide significant financial incentive and support for landlords willing to rent rooms or apartments to those in need, and our various mental health and social service agencies are eager to
surround them with the supports they need to make this housing work. These supports are even available for those who are willing to rent rooms in their homes or “in-law” residences to these folks in need. But we need families and/or landlords willing to step up and let the county know such housing is available so we can best match the space and the hosts with those in need… It’s really wonderful to begin each new year with a celebration as rich in pageantry and promise as that of the Epiphany. But as the Scriptures continually remind us, God has a way of showing up and manifesting God’s sheltering and saving presence most powerfully not simply in the miraculous, but in the most down-to-earth circumstances and settings; and God invites us in simple and profound ways to make visible the invisible Jesus. Even today, Jesus walks among us in distressing disguise, seeking a welcome and a home and someone who’ll embody God’s sheltering and saving love for Him. The story’s not over by any means. I invite you to prayerfully consider how you can be part and parcel of that welcome; and I invite you to dare to partner with case managers and social workers and all who are working to help our neighbors in need. May our neighbors in need come to see God in flesh made manifest in us through Christ Jesus our Lord.. Dave Heckler is the pastor of Christ Church UCC in Trumbauersville and St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, in Applebachsville. You can reach him at prdaveheckler@gmail.com
January 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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2021 Volkswagen ID-4 EV My first fully electric car experience came compliments of Volkswagen’s 2021 ID.4 First Edition crossover. Since then, VW introduced an AWD version that most Snowbelt folks would prefer. My initial impression is that ID.4 contains all of VWs quality build and is loaded with all the latest technology. And the ID.4 is the first of many new EVs coming from this German company. To its credit, the ID.4 was the winner of the 2021 World Car of the Year by a team of automotive journalists. And it received the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations top 5-star safety rating. The 5-seat ID.4 EV tested was a rear motor/ rear drive configuration that produces 201-hp and 228 lb/ft of torque for a driving range of 250 miles. It draws power from an 82-kWh battery pack stowed in the floorboard. Speaking in terms of EPA mpg in a gasoline engine, ID.4 is rated at an estimated 107 MPGe in the city and 91 MPGe highway. The system carries a tow rating of 2,200 pounds. The AWD version with dual, front and rear motors, generates 295-hp and 350 lb/ft of torque for an estimated driving range of 249 miles. ID.4 comes with a charging cord/plug that’s stored in the cargo area. At one of Electrify America’s charging stations, that are owned by VW, it took 36 minutes for an 89 percent charge which bumped the remaining mileage from 115 miles to 265 miles. The charge rate was $0.16/minute on slow charge and $0.32/minute on fast charge. Fortunately, Volkswagen offers Free Fast Charging for the first three years of ownership at Electrify America charging stations. As of this writing, there were 2,556 across the U.S.
While I was having the ID.4 charged a lady from New Jersey pulled next to me with another new ID.4. She was headed to upstate New York and in conversation filled me in on the aspects of charging. First off, she said she needed an app to show where the stations were located to plan her trip. For the VW app and once the free service ended, she had to provide a lot of credit card information and other personal info. She wasn’t keen on the latter, but had no choice but to do it. Then she said her dealer told her not to charge the battery more than 89 percent because it will shorten battery life. Another good one was that I should set an idling fee/charge otherwise another car (a competitor) could use the electric VW paid for. Most importantly, she told me I couldn’t take the plug out of the cars’ receptacle unless I first pressed the keyfob (an interlock of sorts). Glad she told me that otherwise I’d be in a jam as the owners’ manual for me to consult was missing in the test car. (I subsequently learned there’s an automatic function on the touchscreen.) ID.4 also uses what VW terms Brake Energy Recuperation to charge the battery. It works when slowing down and when the vehicle is rolling in overrun or driving downhill. Electrical energy is created by the electric drivetrain and stored in the high-wattage battery. As such, the electric drivetrain essentially works as a generator and creates an engine braking effect, according to VW. The ID.4 is an attractive compact crossover. I can’t really say SUV as my term for that is that it can be taken off-road and over rough, rugged terrain which the ID.4 isn’t suited for. With slick, slippery aerodynamic styling lines, ID.4 is considerably better looking than Tesla models 3 and Y. That pair has the look of a catfish. VW also uses the lower grille to allow air in to cool the battery pack. Interestingly, when approaching the vehicle with the keyfob, the outside mirrors swing out, the instrument gauge and touchscreen illuminate and the motor energizes. It did feel strange not to insert an ignition key or push a keyless ignition button. To get underway, merely step on the brake pedal, which you must do to open the windows as well. The latter brings up a sore subject. There are no
separate switches for the rear windows. The fronts serve all four. ID.4s interior is somewhat plain vanilla yet attractive with its perforated leatherette seats. The dash is void of knobs and switches. Instead, HVAC and other controls use flush buttons below the 12-inch infotainment touchscreen (with voice control) and buttons on the steering wheel. The infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay/Android Auto through App Connect. A wireless phone charger is included on the console. There is, however, no console box just a pair of cup holders. In the drivers’ line of view, a single 5-inch long gauge cluster displays the selected direct drive automatic transmission gear and other
Choices for 401(k) at Former Employer operating information. And it adjusts up/down with the steering wheel. Speaking of the gear selector, the shifter is on a mini stalk and twists forward for D/B, N modes, rearward for Reverse, plus a “P” button on the end of the stalk for Park. Very innovative. The “B” can be used for intense energy regeneration according to VW. Heated front seats are comfy and supportive after a low 18-inch step-in. The rear seats too are especially comfy for two adults or three youngsters. Leg and headroom are generous fore and aft. In the cargo area that has a hands-free liftgate, a low 29-inch liftover eases heavy loading. With the rear seatbacks upright, there’s 33 cubic feet of space that measures 36.5 inches deep, 43 wide and 28 high. Flip the seatbacks and capacity expands to 64 cubic feet for 70 inches of cargo loading depth. There’s also a 4-inch deep bin beneath the cargo floor to stow the charging cable and beneath that, a 9-inch deep bin that houses the tire inflator, photo by christopher betz jack and lug wrench. Press on the throttle and the ID.4 moves smartly and quickly. It’s been independently 0-60 timed at 7.6 seconds. If you’ve ever driven a battery-powered golf cart or tow motor, the sensation is similar. And it’s a quiet surge of power. Open the window and only an electric motor whine can be heard. ID.4 also has four driving modes of Eco, Comfort, Sport and Custom. Sport mode offers more throttle response and steering effort. In Eco, response is more reserved and steering lightens. Shod with 20-inch Bridgestone tires, ID.4 rides smoothly with road imperfections smartly dampened. ID.4 was nimble, planted and easy to park. ID.4 is offered in Pro and ProS trims. The First Edition tested had the latest gamut of safety features such as Travel Assist (semiautomated driving assistance); adaptive cruise; lane keeping assist; forward collision warning/auto emergency braking w/pedestrian monitoring; active side assist w/blind spot monitoring including rear cross traffic alert; electronic stability control; tire pressure monitoring and many more. Niceties include a panoramic sunroof and satellite radio. For all this, ID.4 was priced at $45,190 including delivery of $1,195. But this becomes more attractive after a $7,500 federal tax credit. ID.4 comes with generous warranties of 4 years/50K mile new vehicle; 4/50K mile high voltage system warranty; 8/100K high voltage battery warranty; 7/100K corrosion protection; 2/20K carefree maintenance; and 3/36K roadside assistance. As I sat waiting for the ID.4 to be charged, I looked across the street at a Sunoco gasoline station and thought I could be there, fill up, and be out of there in five minutes. Frustrating to say the least. All in all, ID.4 in itself is a fine, handsome, great handling/riding crossover. But I’d prefer a VW Tiguan AWD SUV.. Nick Hromiak is an automotive enthusiast and freelance writer. We look forward to bringing you his new column each month. He can be reached at nhromiak@verizon.net.
“An optimist stays up until midnight to see the New Year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves.” - Bill Vaughn
One of the common threads of a mobile workforce is that many individuals who leave their job are faced with a decision about what to do with their 401(k) account. Under the SECURE Act, in most circumstances, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plan in the year you turn 72. Withdrawals from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plans are taxed as ordinary income, and if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. Individuals have four choices with the 401(k) account they accrued at a previous employer. Choice 1: Leave It with Your Previous Employer You may choose to do nothing and leave your account in your previous employer’s 401(k) plan. However, if your account balance is under a certain amount, be aware that your ex-employer may elect to distribute the funds to you. There may be reasons to keep your 401(k) with your previous employer— such as investments that are low cost or have limited availability outside of the plan. Other reasons are to maintain certain creditor protections that are unique to qualified retirement plans, or to retain the ability to borrow from it, if the plan allows for such loans to ex-employees. (A 401(k) loan not paid is deemed a distribution, subject to income taxes and a 10% tax penalty if the account owner is under 59½.) The primary downside is that individuals can become disconnected from the old account and pay less attention to the ongoing management of its investments. Choice 2: Transfer to Your New Employer’s 401(k) Plan Provided your current employer’s 401(k) accepts the transfer of assets from a preexisting 401(k), you may want to consider moving these assets to your new plan. The primary benefits to transferring are the convenience of consolidating your assets, retaining their strong creditor protections, and keeping them accessible via the plan’s loan feature. If the new plan has a competitive investment menu, many individuals prefer to transfer their account and make a full break with their former employer.
Choice 3: Roll Over Assets to a Traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) Another choice is to roll assets over into a new or existing Traditional IRA. It’s possible that a Traditional IRA may provide some investment choices that may not exist in your new 401(k) plan. You may continue to contribute to a Traditional IRA past age 70½ under the SECURE Act as long as you meet the earnedincome requirement.) The drawback to this approach may be less creditor protection and the loss of access to these funds via a 401(k) loan feature. Remember, don’t feel rushed into making a decision. You have time to consider your choices and may want to seek professional guidance to answer any questions you may have. Choice 4: Cash out the account The last choice is to simply cash out of the account. However, if you choose to cash out, you may be required to pay ordinary income tax on the balance plus a 10% early withdrawal penalty if you are under age 59½. In addition, employers may hold onto 20% of your account balance to prepay the taxes you’ll owe. Think carefully before deciding to cash out a retirement plan. Aside from the costs of the early withdrawal penalty, there’s an additional opportunity cost in taking money out of an account that could potentially grow on a taxdeferred basis.
The content is developed from sources believed to The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax be providing accurate information.
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This article was submitted by Bob Podraza of Robert James Investments on West Broad Street, Quakertown. He can be reached at 215-583-5013 or at robertjamesinvestments.com
Gaenssle Named UBCTS Student of the Month William Gaenssle, a Pennridge senior in our Welding and Fabrication Technology program, has been named Student of the Month for December 2021 at the Upper Bucks County Technical School. William is the son of Anne and David Gaenssle. William was nominated by his instructor, Mr. Kosak, for consistently displaying outstanding performance in his Welding & Fabrication program and at his worksite. Last week, Mr. Kosak also nominated William for November’s Word of the Month respect, an essential workplace readiness skill needed for success in the workplace. William has earned his 10-hour and 30hour OSHA safety certifications. He also utilizes his technical area career-readiness skills at Heritage Fence in Skippack, where he’s employed as a welder. In his free time, William enjoys working on cars and riding dirt bikes. After graduation, William hopes to continue his welding career at Triangle Technical School in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2022
Employment Opportunities
Biagioli Construction - Laborer/ Helper Wanted For Remodeling Looking for a self motivated person. Experience not necessary, willing to train the right individual. Must have reliable transportation. Jbiagioli5775@gmail.com Spor’s General Store - Hiring various positions, ages 15 & up. bspor@sporsgeneralstore.com or stop in the store at 22 W. Broad Street,Trumbauersville New Vitae Wellness & Recovery Happy Holidays! Welcome to your New Life at New Vitae Wellness & Recovery! Seeking PCA/MT, Cooks, Drivers, Maintenance Asst at our Quakertown locations. Sign-on bonus
up to $1,000! Call 610-928-5277 or www.NewVitaeWellness.com/careers. Classic Hair Designs - Salon and spa seeking experienced massage therapist. Flexible hours and pleasant working environment. Please send resume to classichairdesigns1@ gmail.com Professional Tree Care & Landscaping - Full time ground worker’s position available. Must have current license and reliable transportation to our location in Quakertown PA. Must have chainsaw experience, able to use a chipper and drive a full size pick up. Start right away. Call 215-804-8208
Think Local. Work Local. Be Local. Family Collectibles Enliven Home Decor
January is the time of the year when home goods are featured for shoppers in stores and online. Why not use your cherished family heirlooms when you decorate or re-decorate your home? No family heirlooms are “too precious” for everyday display and enjoyment. Display these items proudly and creatively all around your home. Highlight antique and vintage objects that remind you of family and friends of years past. Objects from events like family reunions, holidays, and vacations are great display pieces including old scrapbooks and photos in vintage frames. Consider having those old photos digitized and load them into a slide show photo frame. Pull out those old high school yearbooks, scrapbooks, and wedding albums. Give them center stage on the family room coffee table, on a side table on the lanai, or on a bedroom nightstand at the cabin. Paper collectibles are fun to use as graphic and visually stimulating decorations. Like books, they are interesting to hold, read, and view. Fill a decorative box with old newspaper articles about your hometown, college campus, or favorite vacation spot, etc. Add old school report cards, class pictures, i.d. cards from previous jobs, hand drawn maps to vacation cabins, newspaper clippings, college i.d. cards, dog’s old collar or tags, expired library cards, etc. Depending on the size of the box, it can be placed on a shelf by the hearth or on the floor
near a comfy chair and then opened occasionally for some spirited chatter. Place another memory box filled with stuff in the guest room so grandma and grandpa can enjoy looking through the memory box when they come to visit. Certain antiques and vintage collectibles lend themselves to specific rooms in your home. For instance, hang Grandma’s beaded purse from the 1940s on the handle of a guest room or powder room door. Make Grandpa’s old golf clubs a feature in the foyer or back door mud room by leaning them in a corner so they can be seen as friends enter the house. Place an old flour-sugar-coffee-tea canister set from auntie’s kitchen in the playroom as a catch-all for the kids’ school art projects like whiteglue macaroni picture frames and clay ashtrays. For kids’ drawings, don’t frame them professionally. Just go to the craft store and get some small inexpensive wooden table easels and position them around the house. If you want to display your kids’ artwork on a wall for a longer period of time, consider a poster frame with plexi-glass for a lightweight display option. Family heirlooms are great options for home décor and they will make decorating your home a memorable experience. Dr. Lori Verderame is the award-winning Ph.D. antiques appraiser on History channel’s #1 show, The Curse of Oak Island. Visit www. DrLoriV.com and www.YouTube.com/DrLoriV or call (888) 431-1010..
January 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
Happy 2022! If you love warm weather, December was your month. On December 16th the record high was broken as the temperature soared to a balmy 61°F. It remains to be seen if this weather persists into 2022. Gardeners hope the cold weather appears as bulbs are designed by nature to withstand cold winter temperatures. Indeed they rely on winter’s cold to trigger the biochemical process necessary to bring the bulb to flower in spring. What happens if warm winter weather causes spring bulbs to merge early? The danger is not as great as it may seem. The foliage of tulips, daffodils, and other spring bulbs can tolerate cold temperatures. Oftentimes, normal winter weather (cold temperatures and snow) returns, delaying further growth. A blanket of snow is especially helpful. The snow discourages additional growth and also protects the foliage from extreme cold. If foliage emerges during a warm spell without snow you can cover the foliage with a blanket of mulch to help protect the delicate tips. If buds have emerged they will most likely be damaged by colder temperatures. Consider cutting them off to enjoy them inside. Sources: tinyurl.com/y39ywxk5 Are you bored waiting for the Seed Catalogs to arrive? Check out this Penn State website: tinyurl.com/y2vgjrx7 You will find many helpful articles and videos such as Planting Pollinator Gardens, Soil Management, Evaluating the Garden, Rain Gardens and many more. Holiday Blooms Faded? Now What? When the blooms fade, you’ll want to take steps to keep the plant alive—and hopefully healthy enough to re-bloom next season. Here are a few pointers for some popular holiday plants. Christmas and Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera). After the blooms drop, keep the cactus in a cooler location, with indirect light—perhaps a basement with windows or a heated garage. Next summer, it will benefit from being out in part shade until cooler fall weather sets in. You will notice new shoots forming on the plant. Once buds start to appear, move the plant indoors to a sunny location. If the buds don’t develop into flowers, the plant may need a bigger pot or richer soil—you may consider repotting. Or, move it to a location with more sunlight. Try to keep the plant’s environment sunny but not above 70 degrees to optimize flowering. Poinsettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima) When the flowers and leaves fall, cut the plant back to 3-5 inches and move the plant to a cool
(sub-60° F), well-ventilated place until spring. During this time, the plant will not require much water, but again, the soil should not dry out completely. In late spring, bring the plant out of dormancy with new soil, a warmer location, and increase watering. When summer evening temperatures are above 60°F, move the plant outside for the summer in moderate shade. Pinch off shoots during the summer to make the plant bushier and give it a nice shape. By late summer, when evenings start to cool, the poinsettia needs to come back indoors in a warm, sunny window. Again— room temperatures between 70-75°F are ideal—but cooler evening temperatures in low 60s and darkness is important. At this time, the plant should be treated almost every week to a dose of soluble fertilizer. If you’re hoping for Christmas color, starting in October the plant requires complete overnight darkness (not even a nightlight!) for eight weeks. This is when the bracts (modified leaves) will acquire their bright color. Once flower buds are formed (around Thanksgiving), the plant is ready to reward you with holiday brilliance for the second year and will need sun to brighten
the bracts. Photo Credit: Penn State Extension Cactus, Kathy Kelley, PhD.
If you attend the Pennsylvania Farm Show, Saturday January 8th thru Saturday January 15th make sure to visit the Penn State Cooperative Extension Booth staffed by Master Gardeners for all the latest information on the Spotted Lanternfly! Our home Garden/Watershed hotline is still available! Emails are being answered by our trained Master Gardeners and Master Watershed Stewards remotely Monday thru Friday. Although our phone lines are not in use for the winter months, our volunteers will still be monitoring your emails.(see paragraph 2 for Penn State Extension shutdown dates) “Ask a Master Gardener/Master Watershed Steward” Penn State Extension Bucks County Email: BucksMG@psu.edu Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!
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Trapping
Recently I returned from a hunting trip for white tail deer in South Carolina. I was able to harvest a deer and fulfill our venison needs for the coming year. Today it is necessary to spend a good amount of time to study all the complicated regulations for deer hunting here in Pennsylvania. Where can you use a certain hunting weapon, what are the dates for that region. Is there a combined season for buck and doe? Is there an extended season and once what again what weapon can you use to hunt the deer? What Sundays are open for hunting? There are many other questions that would take up most of this article. Upper Bucks County was a “Must Hunt” area back in the 1950’s and 60’s. Our area that was part of the Perkiomen Valley with its vast farms was known for its Pheasant Hunting. These were “Wild Pheasants” from the pheasants first stocked in this area at the turn of the century (1900s).” Back at that time we didn’t see too many deer in our area. Most folks would “Go to the Mountains” for deer hunting. This brings to mind the subject of this article- “Trapping.” Quakertown had a premier furrier manufacturing company-The R. M Taylor Company. Many people would buy furs from local people who went trapping in the fall and winter. (It was best to obtain furs in this period of time because the furs were prime this time of the year.) Today it is necessary to have a special license as outlined in the first paragraph for trapping. Back then, you had to have a hunting license and had to have your traps tagged with proper identification as to who owned them. Did you ever see a Muskrat? Back in the day our farms had vast fields of corn, soybeans, wheat, and hay. Today those fields are named as housing subdivisions, yes even a hospital and nursing home. I mention this because I would hunt pheasants with my dad and brothers where these buildings are now built. Because of these open fields and rural setting we had streams that flowed rapidly throughout the whole year. We also had marshes and wet lands. It was not unusual to see a Muskrat killed on the road near a small tributary in our township (Milford). Now I couldn’t tell you when I last sighted a Muskrat or Mink in our area. The streams dry to a trickle because the water table is lower due to all the development, pipes now are buried beneath the surface of
what was once marshes and wetlands, and small farm ponds have since disappeared. These areas were once overrun by Muskrats and what we called “Sewer Rats” (large rats that ate the grains of the fields around them). Many farmers would welcome a “trapper” to help harvest these excess animals that caused damage and the need to repair to these natural water areas. They requested the utmost care in the placement of these traps so their pets would not be harmed. When trapping season rolled around we would soak our traps in a bucket of water with walnuts with their outer shell included. This was to take any human odor away. When the clearly stated first day of trapping took place we would carefully “set our traps” near their obvious “holes” or along their well worn trails being careful to avoid the possibilities of catching pets of the land owner. I went trapping in the wet area of Lulu Hunsicker’s farm near the present Wawa at the turnpike. My dad would get up with me very early for the two-week period I would trap “to check the traps.” In the evening shortly before going to bed we would drive from Brick Tavern to the Hunsicker farm to do our evening check. Surprisingly we caught quite a few Muskrats in the two weeks we went trapping. I would take the whole Muskrat to Mr. Kline and sell it at a discounted price. My friend Ken Scheetz trapped near Spinnerstown and he would skin out his muskrats and dry them on special stretchers and would get a much higher price. The only thing about doing this process is the fact that you could possibly cut through the fur and get far less money after doing all the work of skinning. Others trapped Fox, especially on “The Mill Hill” or over near Campbell’s Dam outside of Milford Square. From time to time for those who were lucky enough have a trap line along a creek, an occasional Mink was harvested. This was big news the next day at school. Now the areas the muskrats and other species that were trapped are gone. Thus these critters that were pests back then are now gone. So is the chance of teenagers sharing time with their dads or brothers that is now an important memory in my life. “ Mr. Kline only gave me $2.25 for my two muskrats. Sam Kile took his to the other Mr. Kline and he paid him $2.50 for his and my muskrats had nicer furs! Guess we will have to check with him first with our next catch. Right Dad?” Dick Helm is a long time Quakertown area resident
and
regular
contributor
here
UBFP. Reach him at rbh9@verizon.net.
at
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2022
Remembering Henry Franklin The Borough Council has approved the Quakertown Historical Society’s (QHS) request to erect an historical marker on a borough owned lot at Moore Court and South Main Streets. The marker will recognize the significance to our community of our first, well documented, African-American citizen, Henry Franklin. In addition, the Council has agreed to consider dedicating the lot, which adjoins the Richard Moore House Underground Railroad station where there already is a Pennsylvania Museum and Historical Commission marker, as a Freedom/UGRR city park. The Great Swamp (Upper Bucks County) was settled primarily by Quakers, Mennonites and other conservative Protestant sects. Those groups considered slavery “contrary to the religion of Christ, the rights of man, and sound reason and policy.” Consequently, local UGRR ‘activities’ were ignored or encouraged.. Some citizens, like Richard Moore, played important roles in the clandestine network. By the 1830’s, Quakertown was an important terminus on escaped slaves’ journeys to freedom. Many hundreds of fugitives passed through Quakertown. Some felt safe here and stayed. Henry Franklin was one. Henry Franklin, was born Bill Budd in Taneytown, MD (circa, 1805). His father Jared Budd was born a slave to John Ross Key in Fredrick, MD. When his master’s son, Frank, married and moved to Georgetown, Jared was separated from his new wife, Ann, and ‘reassigned’ as the groom’s coachman.
After several years of service, Francis Scott Key compassionately consented to sell Jared to Ann’s master Adam Good, in Taneytown. The reunited couple soon had two children, Bill (Henry), and Harriet. In 1811, Adam Good went broke. His properties, including slaves, were sold. Bill/ Henry, who was about seven years old, was purchased by Abraham Shriner of Little Pipe Creek, MD. Jared was sold to Joseph Engle (for $550), and Ann and Harriet to Philip Wampler (for $600), both also of Little Pipe Creek. Engle and Wampler both were Dunkers (German Baptist Brethren), and were uncomfortable owning slaves. Jared Budd was granted freedom after ten years service and Ann was released after she’d earned her purchase price. Harriet remained with the Wamplers when they moved to Ohio, but was freed after six more years of service. By 1830, Jared, Ann, Harriet, and new daughter, Jane, had reunited in Gettysburg, PA, where, through diligence and hard work, they managed to purchase a home. Though promised freedom when he reached age 35, Bill/Henry, after 24 years with the Shriners, could wait no longer. At Whitsuntide/Pentecost in 1837, he received permission to visit his parents in Gettysburg. He, and two other slaves intent on escape, walked to Pennsylvania and vanished into the UGRR system, as so many thousands of others did. Now calling himself Henry Franklin, he first contacted William Wright in Adams County, and then was sent to Emmor Kimber of Kimberton, who, in turn, sent him to Richard Moore in Quakertown.
Moore believed Franklin was safe there and offered him a home and work at his pottery. Franklin lived with the Moores for the next seven years, driving pottery wagons, delivering product or receiving raw materials. Frequently, fugitive slaves were hidden in the wagons and delivered to safer regions. Moore said Franklin “was always the right man at the right place . . . and by his integrity, intelligence, and courteous bearing won the confidence and regard of all with whom he mingled and did more to break down the prejudice against color in the adjoining county than any other influence.” In 1838, Franklin’s fiancée, Ann Brooks of MD, joined him in Quakertown. A letter Henry sent her was intercepted by his Abe Shriner. Learning that Emmor Kimber knew where Franklin was, Shriner wrote to him, promising to free Franklin after two more years’ service. The “rich correspondence” between Shriner and Kimber was published in newspapers and inflamed public sentiment over slavery. Sadly, within a year, Ann died. Franklin eventually accumulated enough resources to purchase a home (sill standing on Main Street, Quakertown), and, according to Richard Moore, “fulfilled a useful place in the community.” Henry re-married (Elizabeth), and had several children. [Sadly, Franklin out lived his three wives and most of his children]. Franklin’s parents also relocated from Gettysburg to Milford changing their name to Franklin. Jared was a farmer and operated a broom making business. He died in 1859. Ann Franklin then lived with her son in Quakertown where she died several years later and was buried in Richland Friends cemetery. Henry Franklin’s UGRR activities expanded. He visited various parts of Canada to determine the condition of fugitive slaves sent there. By special invitation, Franklin visited renowned abolitionist Geritt Smith in Peterboro, NY.
A carriage was waiting at the station with no “distinction on account of color” made. While attending to morning toilet in his richly furnished room with plush drapery, he thought of his former life with the “tow underclothes and Negro cloth, and wondered what Mrs. Shriner would say if she saw him now.” After the Civil War, Henry Franklin and his 3rd wife moved to Philadelphia where, in 1865, he secured a position as custodian and messenger for the Academy of Fine Arts. He quickly earned the confidence of the institution’s managers. When James Claghorn sent his valuable collection of engravings to the Exposition of New York, in 1874, he insisted that Henry Franklin escort them as caretaker. Franklin also continued his relationship with the Shriner’s, visiting them on occasions and offering assistance when, after Abraham’s death and the family’s move to Kansas, they fell on hard times. Henry Franklin, one of the most renowned African-American citizens of Upper Bucks County’s, died in Philadelphia on May 9, 1889. He was buried in Quakertown, (most likely) in Richland Friends Cemetery. As many ‘modern’ people attempt to purge certain aspects of American History from our cultural memory, the Quakertown Historical Society seeks to retain and celebrate it all. History cannot be changed, only learned from. From all strife significant individuals emerge. Henry Franklin was one and deserves to be remembered. Please help the QHS purchase and erect an historical marker in memory of one of Quakertown’s significant historical figures. Jack Schick is a long time Quakertown area resident and regular contributor here at
UBFP. Reach him at sjckschc@aol.com
January 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
17
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Happy New Year! Another 365 days have passed, and we have entered a new year – 2022. At the beginning of each year, I like to reflect on the past year and evaluate where I was physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually during those twelve months so that I can make necessary changes to enhance my future life in the new year. With the turmoil that the world was experiencing, I can recall wishing away 2020 midway through the year. I wanted life to return to the peaceful, kind-hearted, loving, respectful world in which I needed to survive. And so, when the clock struck twelve a.m. on January 1, 2021, I rejoiced for a new beginning in my life. The worst was in my past and even though there were obstacles down the 2021 road, I was going to be able to withstand whatever I encountered. I believed the wise words that my dearly departed mother used to say, “This too shall pass.” Since I was living on the side of caution, protection, and common sense, I continued to limit my activities outside of the home to grocery shopping, pharmacy pick-up, restaurant take-out, and individual clients that I needed to see for work. I was not ready to return to in-person worship service, Tuesday afternoon movie matinees, sit-down restaurant meals, nor large crowds of people. My decisions were working well for me. However, the last quarter of the year was about to challenge my life. In September, I learned that a classmate from first grade had passed at the end of August. I paid my respects to his wife on September 8th. Just three days later, on the infamous September 11th, my third cousin
died from Covid-19. She was only thirty-eight years old. On September 12th, her mother, my second cousin was admitted to the hospital with Covid-19. Two days later, a fifty-plus year friend passed away while in the hospital. On October 4th, my birth sister who I had only known for five years, passed away. On October 10th, my second cousin who had been in the hospital for twenty-eight days left the family. Finally, five days before Christmas a long-time coworker and friend died from Covid. At an early age, my mother taught me not to question God because he is an Omniscient God, and he makes no mistakes. But I am still trying to process the death of my family members. I ask Him to help me understand why a mother and a grandmother were taken from six precious babies, and why I missed the opportunity to meet my birth sister. I may never understand why so much loss occurred in my life in such a brief time. But I do know that I was able to endure the loss because of my faith in an Almighty God, and for that I am forever grateful. And so, as I begin January 2022, I will make every effort to enrich my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being to a higher level as I continue this journey called life. I wish the same for everyone who reads The World as I See It. “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT) Jacque Holliday is a long time freelance contributor to UBFP. She always welcomes your comments via email at jacque@ubfp.org
18
• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2022
A Quakertown Legend BY JACQUE HOLLIDAY
Texas Longhorn
solace except when his privacy was invaded animals as he talked them through those barn which provides him with the exercise he needs daily. Plus, he eats from the bounty of the If you are a longtime resident of the whenever the foster mother decided to go doors. Texas also experienced working with a earth. He says he just does not get sick. So, Quakertown area, you have undoubtedly in and empty drawers and closets and throw noticed the familiar face of a man who travels things on the floor. His room was also where beekeeper. Unlike most beekeepers, he would he chose an appropriate name. I inquired about throughout the town either riding his bicycle he ate his meals because he was never invited retrieve the honeycombs without protective his birth name, but he preferred not to reveal or walking. In the past, you may have seen to sit at the table with the mother and father. gear. I asked him if the bees had ever attacked that information because he is not that person him walking on PA Route 309 with two of It was like a prison where food was slid under him. Fortunately, he was only stung once or any longer. I asked Texas a hypothetical question. What his cows, Barbara, and Julie, or stopping by the iron bars to inmates who were there for twice. A reward of this experience was eating if his mother was forced to give him up at Dominick’s Pizzeria with his horse, Ricky. committing crimes. The difference is that honey directly from the honeycomb. His interaction with the wildlife in nature birth, but never forgot about the love she had Whenever we see this gentleman whether it Texas had done nothing wrong. During his young, formative years when brought the greatest joy to his life. There was for him? What if she had searched for him and is downtown, uptown, or on Route 309, we simply say, “There’s Tex!” Yes, THE Texas little boys were dreaming about what they a strong connection with the birds of the air finally located his whereabouts? I asked if she wanted to be when they grew up, Texas was and the quadrupeds on the ground that instilled would have reached out to him, would he have Longhorn. I have known Texas for several decades thinking about what he should or should not do peace in his heart and gave him a feeling of been receptive to her desire to know him? He and I have spoken to him briefly as we passed to prevent his foster mother from abusing him. trust, friendship, and worthiness, something simply replied that “everyone in life makes on the street and held lengthy conversations When little boys were dreaming about being a he had not experienced from human beings. mistakes.” Texas Longhorn would like the people of with him at times. But I wanted to know what firefighter, a police officer, a truck driver, or They were not ruthless or judgmental. He made Texas Longhorn the man he is today. a doctor, those thoughts never entered Tex’s could express his deepest thoughts to them as Quakertown to remember him as a man of I was interested in his history, his lifetime mind. He vaguely remembers elementary he gently rubbed their hides and brushed their strength (he once pushed a 76-ton boxcar) experiences, and his perspective on life. I school, but he does not recall where the schools fur. He considered the cows, bulls, and horses who was willing to work at any job and to do it well. A man who loved nature, wildlife, finally had the opportunity to sit down with were located, or if he attended more than one to be the ones who raised him. Texas had worked on livestock farms in and especially his cows and horses with elementary school. Junior high school is also a him at the library and whom he had a good try to explore the life relationship. He was a of this unsung man kind man who did not who has been a part bother others but would of Quakertown history help anyone and was since 1959. able to get along with Texas was born on everyone. He believed November 11, 1944. in living together in He does not know harmony and helping where he was born, one another. That was nor does he know his his philosophy on life. mother or father, and He uses this example he never desired to – “Flies, mosquitos, learn who they were, ticks and fleas do not nor where they were check the color of our from. He was raised skin before they bite.” in a foster house that We all taste the same. provided a roof over Texas does not look his head and a bed on back and ask. “What which to sleep. It was if my life had been far from a home. The family, whose name (left) Texas Longhorn feeds one of his favorite family members, Brenda, some pizza at Dominick’s Pizzeria in Downtown Quakertown on an episode of different?” He never “Real People” in 1980. (right) Tex often took his herd for walks 15 miles into Quakertown. Check out his TV appearance at quakertown.net/texontv looked at other people he does not recall, lived in Germantown, an area in Northwest blur. Consequently, he did not graduate from Pennsylvania and New Jersey from an early and wished that he could be like them. He has high school. Despite those circumstances, Tex age and he has owned many livestock during encountered many unfavorable and dangerous Philadelphia. The memories of his years in that house are educated himself by watching educational and his lifetime. All his horses, cows, and bulls situations in his lifetime, but he believes God not pleasant memories. He recalls hearing that science shows on television. Incidentally, he is had names. Some of the cows were Barbara, assigned a guardian angel to watch over him Brenda, Karen, Judy, Julie, Sarah, and throughout his childhood, his teen years, his the woman acting as his foster mother had an a Star Trek fan. This family eventually sold their house in Tammy. The horses were Rachel and Ricky. adulthood, and up until today. He has been illness that affected her heart. There is a link between heart health and brain health, and Germantown and bought a house in Upper They all have crossed the Rainbow Bridge protected from many things and for that he whatever that illness may have been, it seemed Bucks County, Hilltown area. This was now, and Texas buried each one of them. After thanks God. Because of those blessings, he to have affected her brain causing her to display somewhat of a reprieve for Tex because it was the first few burials, the other cows would would not go back and change any of life’s volatile and abusive behavior toward Tex on a rural area, and he spent a great deal of time gather around to watch their former pasture experiences because he learned from each one a regular basis. One of his worst experiences outside with nature. He loved wildlife, and mates be laid to rest. Rex, his 2,500-pound pet of them as difficult as they were for him. “That is why I tell you not to worry about during the years in that house was when she they knew there was a connection between the bull that was stabled in New Jersey has also beat him in the face with a shoe causing him to two of them. He attracted birds who would fly crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. Tex still has everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t bleed profusely. He was in his room on his bed, down and sit on his finger. Even the quick- two cows stabled in northern Pennsylvania. Besides working on farms, Tex also drove life more than food, and your body more than and he never knew what triggered that vicious footed rabbits and squirrels would stop and attack. She never had a specific purpose, nor notice him. He tells of the time he came upon a an eighteen-wheeler in New Jersey many years clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant did she plan her attacks; she just randomly mother skunk and how he quietly managed that ago. He has worked in welding, carpentry, and or harvest or store food in barns, for your executed havoc in his life. The husband, even situation by talking to her as he slowly backed mechanics. He also worked at the feed mill in heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you though he was not abusive, never intervened away. Later, she brought her two babies to Perkasie. That was when he owned his own far more valuable to him than they are? Can all so there was no protection from this extremely him. He made a home for them in the woods truck. Yes, he did have a driver’s license at one your worries add a single moment to your life? “And why worry about your clothing? Look sick woman. She had older children, but they and eventually the mother returned to them. time. You may recall him carrying equipment did not live at home, so Texas was on his own. He also worked on a farm in the Hilltown area on his bicycle as he rode around town with at the lilies of the field and how they grow. Many years ago, I was sitting at the counter where the farmer had thirty milking cows. his boom box, washing windows for different They don’t work or make their clothing, yet in downtown Dominick’s Pizzeria. Casually, Texas was responsible for completing that task storefronts, and doing office cleaning as well. Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as You will no longer see him riding his bicycle beautifully as they are. And if God cares so Tex asked me how do children eat an Oreo and he had no problem performing it well. Texas crossed the state line and worked on because someone felt that they needed it more wonderfully for wildflowers that are here cookie? I could not imagine that he did not today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he know, but then again, I thought it was one of a farm in New Jersey also. That farmer had than he did. Texas officially became Texas Longhorn will certainly care for you. Matthew 6:25-34 the many jokes that he was known for telling. I two hundred cows. Before milking time, the Texas Longhorn is a self-proclaimed proceeded to tell him that you “twist, lick, and farmer told Tex to let him know when he was in 1977. I asked him why he chose that name dunk.” You twist the two cookies apart, lick ready, and he would help to gather the cows and he responded that it just fit his nature. The loner, but that does not mean that he is not the layer of sugary cream, and then separately into the barn. Tex never bothered to let the Texas Longhorn cattle have strong survival entertained. He enjoys listening to short-wave dunk the two layers of cookies in a glass of farmer know he was ready. He opened the instincts. They also have an exceptional radio talk shows. He is also a history buff, and milk. He continued to tell me this is what he barn door, and the cows came in on their own, immune system making them resistant to he spends a lot of time doing “deep research” had done as a child, and his foster mother one by one. When the farmer got there, all but most diseases. Having been put out of his about history that interests him. half a dozen cows were in the barn. There was foster home when he was fifteen years old and If you are female and you should happen to punished him by sending him to his room. It seemed that his room was his place of a definite connection between a human and the becoming homeless, Tex had to develop strong meet Texas Longhorn at any time and he greets survival instincts. That was when he came you with, “Howdy, Little Heifer,” please to Quakertown and fell in love with the area know that he means no harm whatsoever. That because of the open land. “The more open the is his signature greeting to women. Also, be land, the less audience you have.” Wherever prepared for his parting words to be, he needs to be he will walk or ride his bicycle “Happy Trails”
January 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
19
QCHS Alumni Spotlight:
Lynda Stahl Ulrich, Class of ’60
BY CHRISTOPHER BETZ
This is another in a series of articles highlighting notable graduates of Quakertown Community High School. Featured individuals are selected by the QCHS Alumni Association. Today we highlight Lynda (Stahl) Ulrich, Class of 1960. Lynda is a familiar face around the Quakertown area, having lived here all her life, and on the same street, no less. Lynda was involved in Band and Chorus in school, but art has been her lifelong passion. There was no official art club. Instead, Lynda said she and her artistic friends would ‘hang out’ and do their own art projects or helped out with painting scenery for school plays. “I was always in the art room doing something.” Lynda also received an art award at graduation. It is no surprise then that Lynda decided to pursue a career in the Arts. It was her senior year art teacher, Ms. Flynn, that suggested she attend Kutztown University and major in Art Education. Lynda did just that, graduating in 1964. After her various ‘student teaching’ stints around the Lehigh Valley, it was time to go to work. A family friend encouraged Lynda to apply to the Quakertown School District to begin her career. It was her first and only application to teach, and she became an art teacher in the same school district she grew up in for the next 32 years, retiring in 1996. She taught at a variety of grade levels from senior high to elementary. It was the elementary students she enjoyed working with the most. “I loved their enthusiasm and the finished results. They seemed excited to be in art class.” Lynda is pleased that some of her many students over the years went on to art careers. She encourages students to “pursue whatever field feels right and make it a career.” Lynda has been involved with Quakertown Alive!, the downtown revitalization organization, since its inception just over 20 years ago. Not surprisingly, she was first drawn to the group to participate in the design committee which helped to plan and implement the aesthetic of the downtown business district. She has held a variety of roles ever since, most notably as chair of the events committee. Without fail, she can be seen scootering up and down the street at QA!’s street festivals, Arts Alive! in the Spring and Autumn Alive! in the Fall, making sure vendors and other participants are where they belong, and offering assistance to make the day go smoothly for everyone. Lynda has also been involved in the Quakertown Lions Club her whole life, if only
unofficially in her earlier years. “My dad was very involved with the Lions and I’d pitch in wherever I could.” In fact, Lynda’s father got Lynda’s husband John and his twin brother Bob involved with the club which, of course, kept Lynda in the fold.
Women weren’t officially eligible to be actual ‘Lions’ until rather recently, instead they were considered members of the ‘auxiliary.’ Over the past decade or so, however, Lynda has served in all officer roles, including as President. She was instrumental in the club’s fundraising efforts for years prior, and continues to be. One of her proudest accomplishments was organizing one of the first Basket Bingos in the area. The event continues to be a strong fundraiser for the club to fulfill its mission. Her efforts go well beyond fundraising. In fact, Lynda, along with John, and brother and sister in law, Bob and Irena, could always be seen pitching in all aspects of the club’s operation and events. As their husbands have since passed, Lynda and Irena continue to carry the ‘Ulrich torch’ in service with the Lions Club. Lynda continues to live on Ninth Street in Quakertown Borough, spending 38 of those years with her husband John. She still enjoys doing art, especially scissor cutting and drawing. She remains active with her high school reunion committee, Quakertown Alive!, the Lions, the Quakertown Fourth of July celebration committee, among other things. Camping with friends in the Spring and Fall is a true highlight in her activities. The Quakertown Community High School Alumni Association encourages alumni to participate in the association’s activities and its mission which includes fundraising and providing scholarship opportunities for QCHS grads. For information about the association, contact Melea Rupert at mrupert55@hotmail. com or visit www.quakertown.net/alumni.
‘Quakertown Cares’ 2021 Tally: $44,000+ BY JANE THOMPSON-SMITH
Enzo Martellucci, who $250 to the cause. As of December 16, $44,062 was donated Also, an anonymous Milford donated to “Quakertown Cares,” allowing the hometown campaign to help many Township resident, Edward Swartz, and Nancianne Edwards gave $200 to neighbors now and throughout the year. This was truly a community effort, ‘Cares,’ and Erica Henry added $150. In addition, there were a host of $100 starting with Quakertown’s ever growing local bank, QNB, originally known as donations given by: anonymous Quakertown Quakertown National Bank. QNB gave a Borough residents in Honor of Tom significant donation, as it has every year since & Marion Luckey, other anonymous Quakertown Borough residents, “Quakertown Cares”’ inception 26 years ago. A “Cares” founding member in 1995, the anonymous Milford Township residents, bank has also contributed invaluable in-kind Hayley Stauffer, Sandra and Robert Myers, contributions, such as a free checking account, Eileen Bruchak, Kim Finnerty, Jennifer copying services, receiving and processing Stover, Patty Blair-Sabol, Sheila Cox, contributions, and serving on the “Cares” Pam Fothergill, Frank Hilt, Kevin Kelly, leadership committee. Thank you for caring, Catherine Laguna,Jonathan Pallone, Rachelle QNB. We couldn’t have done this without you! Quinter, Katie Rosica, Terry San Angelo, Andy Scappaticci, Edwin In other giving, and Nicole Zuerblis. Arden and David Freeman, the Vasquez Barbara Phillips added another $75, Strayer Middle School staff and Janet Pelone added another $1,000 each. and Diane Cressman, Evelyn Carter, an Giving $450 was an anonymous Quakertown anonymous Hellertown resident, Jenell Borough resident, Rebecca Leiby added $400, Hilton, Rebecca Kelly, and Kelly Shaak and Quakertown United Methodist Church all gave $50 to help Quakertown area held a special collection which garnered families, seniors and veterans in need. And the giving continues, with an anonymous $266! Thank you to all who care about ‘Cares’ and helping their neighbors in need. Richland Township resident donating $30. Adding $25 was an anonymous Milford It never gets old. Every year feels just exciting as the next, despite Covid hampering Township resident, and anonymous Richland hand deliveries by the committee. Hopefully Township residents, as well as Melinda we will be able to do that again soon. Lepko, Corey Bell, Elizabeth Coyle, Eileen Finlayson, Nicole Run by a handful of people, it is the and Katie Skonier. community that makes this campaign work. Jerrom And Wendy Somers and Deborah The Quakertown community has surely lived up to the name of the campaign. It has proven Yard rounded it out with $20 donations. Thank you, Quakertown area residents, since 1995, that it’s members clearly care. And that includes Michael and Virginia for caring through terror attacks and Post, Lisa and James Susnoskie, and pandemics. You are truly something special.
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