Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2017

2

• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2017

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

May 1

Planning for the Future Expo: Workshops/ Resources for Special Needs Students. 5pm8pm, Free, Quakertown HS on Park Ave. Info: Susan 215-529-2085, Dawn 215-348-2940 x1729

May 2

“Union General Francis Barlow (Amer. Hero of Gettysburg)” 7pm at Meeting at Doylestown Borough Hall, 57 W Court St. 215-822-1562 or civilwarmuseumdoylestown@gmail.com.

All are welcome.

May 3

Grand Re-opening Celebration 4:30pm7pm for Kulp Roofing, Inc., 216D Apple St, Quakertown Cinco De Mayo 5K at UBYMCA, 401 Fairview Ave, Quakertown. Details/costs: Megan 215-536-9622 x120 or ubymca.org

May 4

Interfaith Prayer Service 7pm at Quakertown Amphitheater at Park at 4th (behind Library).

Celebration of National Day of Prayer.

Questions? Rev. Elaine Ely 215-915-4370 12th Annual UB Forum on Aging, 9:30am-2:30pm at First UCC, 151 S 4th St, Quakertown. Free event for age 55+.

Complimentary lunch, RSVP at 267-371-4566 or dskrapits@phoebe.org to reserve a spot.

May 4, 5, & 6

Rummage/Bake Sale (Thu/Fri 9am-8pm) (Sat 9am-4pm all day bag sale) St. Luke’s UCC, Rte 611 & Rte 412, Ottsville. Hot lunch, dinner available. Look for signs.

May 5

2017 QMFA Golf Outing at Fox Hollow Golf Club, Quakertown. Regis. 10am. $90/ golfer. Fee inc. greens fees, carts, lunch & dinner. Regis. online: https://squareup.com/ store/QMFA, Info: cocong75@gmail.com Purse Bingo, open 5pm at Benner Hall, Cherry Rd, Richlandtown. $25, contact Stacie 215-715-2575

May 5 & 6

Spring Spectacular (Ckn BBQ, Bake/Plant Sale, much more) at Quakertown Christian School, 50 E Paletown Rd, Quakertown, 215-536-6970 for times/events for each day.

May 6

Free Live Concert at QMart’s Outdoor Stage, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown, 215-5364115. Performance by “Tool Shed” 11am-1pm Reading Goes to the Dogs, 2pm-3pm at Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St. Children of all ages are invited to come and read to certified therapy dogs.

Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast 8am10am at Applebee’s, 145 N West End Blvd, Quakertown. $8/person “Meetinghouse Road Historical Walk” 10am begins at Solebury Friends Meeting, 2680 Sugan Rd, New Hope, ends at Audubon Visitor Ctr. (1 ½ mi). Details: education@ soleburyhistory.org 17th Annual Penn State Gardener Plant Sale 9am-1pm, Neshaminy Manor Ctr, 1282 Almshouse Rd, Doylestown. 50+ Master Gardeners, bring a cart, cash & checks accepted. Info: 215-345-3283 Designer Bag Bingo 7pm (open 6pm) at St. Isidore School, 603 W Broad St, Quakertown. $30/tkt, BYOB & BYOS(nacks). Door prizes, raffles. Tkts: jmcfadden@stisidoreschool.com

Upper Bucks Relay for Life, 9am-11pm at Memorial Park, 4th & Mill St, Quakertown Car Show Benefit 11am-3pm (r/d May 7) at Last Chance Ranch, Quakertown. Info: 215538-2510, lastchanceranch.org Quilter’s Buffet 9am-4pm at Dryland UCC, 4415 Newburg Rd, Nazareth. “Round Robin” of instruction tips for all. Lunch included. $40 for the day, Details/register Sherry 610-4388033, Roxanne 570-476-8084 Turkey Hoagies 9am-12:30pm or sold out, Chalfont Fire Co, 301 N Main St. $6/each, advance orders at 215-822-2251 All-U-Can-Eat Roast Beef Dinner 3:30pm7pm or sold out. $9/adult, $5/ages 5-12, take-out available. Zion Lutheran, 2966 N Old Bethlehem Pike, Zion Hill. FMI 215-538-7911 day of.

Truth for Women 5K Walk/Run. Regis.

8am-8:45am. Upper Saucon Twp Park, 5500 Camp Meeting Rd, Center Valley.

Truthforwomen.org or 610-866-5755 Spaghetti Supper w/Salad Bar 4pm-7pm at Lower Saucon UCC, 1375 Third Ave, Hellertown. $9/adult, $4.50/ages 6-12. Takeouts 50 cents more. Bazaar & SERRV Sale also going on.

Cruise Night 4pm-7pm by First PA Mustang Club at Country Sq Shopping Ctr, 240-3 S West End Blvd, Quakertown. All makes, years welcome. DJ Hodge Podge. Info: 215-5387256 or 215-896-8277

May 6 & 7

“Requiem” Concert w/Orchestra & Valley Choral Soc. Free-will offering. (5/6 St. John’s Lutheran, 3104 Main St, Sumneytown 7:30pm) (5/7 Trinity Lutheran, 19 S 5th St, Perkasie 4pm) ValleyChoralSociety.com

May 7

Penny Party (open 12noon) at Eastern Upper Bucks Senior Ctr, 8040 Easton Rd, Ottsville. $2/100 numbers, 50/50, door prizes, raffle, light lunch for sale. 610-847-8158 BC Historic Mills Road Rally begins 11am at AGA Farms, 1333 Elephant Rd, Perkasie.

Tkts: $25/car. bedminsterlandconservancy.org Family Fun Bingo, open 12noon at Haycock Fire Co, 850 Old Bethlehem Rd, Quakertown.

Raffles, prizes, food for purchase. Tkts: Gretchen 610-972-6356 Firehouse Breakfast 8am-1pm at Springtown Fire Co, 3010 Rte 212. $7/adult, $4/ages 5-8, free under 5.

Breakfast 8am-12noon at Sellersville American Legion Post, 75 N Main St, 215257-9801. $5/age 5 yrs+, $2/age 3-5 yrs, free/age 0-2yrs “Midnight Messenger Speakeasy” 4pm-8pm at McCoole’s Red Lion Inn, Quakertown. $45/ pp, vintage attire is encouraged. Entertainment

by Michael Arenella & Dreamland Orchestra

May 8

Hoagie Sale at Trumbauersville Fire Co. (see “ongoing section”)

May 10

Spring Fling Party w/George Bruneio.

Tkts/$12 for buffet & party, Party only is $6 at the door. Sign up by May 5. Upper Bucks Activity Ctr, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown. 215-536-3066 SpringO Bag Bingo 5:30pm-11pm at Morning Star Fellowship. Details/tkts: hopeagainstheroin.us or 267-373-9540

May 12

Vera Bradley & 31 Bag Bingo, benefits Christ Lutheran Church, Trumbauersville and John Rivers VFW Post 11322. Doors open 6pm, Games start at 7pm. Tickets $20 in advance, $25 at door. 215-536-3193

May 12 & 13

“Hidden Springs Community Yard Sale” (8am-2pm), 355 Kingspond Ln, enter on Cherry Ln, approx.. 100 yards S of County Line Rd, Souderton. Raindate: May 19 & 20.

May 13

Quakertown Police Bike Rodeo 9am at Quakertown Pool Parking Lot on Mill St. (r/d May 20 at 9am) Mother’s Day Weekend Tea at McCoole’s Red Lion Inn in Quakertown. $30/pp. Info/ Tkts at McCoole’s or at Upper Bucks Visitor’s Ctr.

May 14

Mother’s Day Mother’s Day Breakfast Buffet 8am12:30pm at Richland Twp Fire/Rescue, 64 Shelly Rd, Quakertown. $7/adult, $6/senior, $3/kids 6-10 “Reverse Barn” (rarest of PA farm structures) 1:30pm-4pm (program 2pm) at Hartzel-Strassburger Homestead, 407 Keystone Dr & Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville.

Free, donations accepted, 267-614-9174

May 17 to 20

Community Carnival at Silver Creek AA, 2943 Rte 412/212, Springtown. Details at silvercreekathleticassociation.com.

Rides, games, food, music, basket raffle, etc.

May 20

Armed Forces Day Free Live Concert at QMart’s Outdoor Stage, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown, 215-5364115. Performance by “Bedlam Blues Band” 12noon-3pm Rain Barrel Building Workshop 9am at Perkiomen Watershed Conserv., Skippack Pike/Haldeman Rd, Schwenksville. We supply tools/materials. Limited to 15, register at perkiomenwatershed.org or 610-287-9383 Beef & Beer Fundraiser 7pm-10pm at Milford Twp Fire Co, 2185 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown. Also music, dancing, & prizes.

Tkts: $25 each, Eric 215-892-6264 Arts Alive! 10am-4pm Juried Art Show/ Spring Festival in Downtown Quakertown, (r/d May 21) quakertownalive.com or 215-536-2273 Mother’s Market 9am-1pm at Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 N Main St. Free yard sale (kids clothes, toys). Lt refreshmts for sale. Info/reserve: Nancy 267-575-0866, nohrberg7@gmail.com, bucks58fire.com “Spring Flea Mkt” 9am-2pm at Independence Court of Quakertown. One free space per person, bring own table. 215-538-7050 to register.

May 21

Free Live Concert at QMart’s Outdoor Stage, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown, 215536-4115. Performance by “A.C. Mitchell” 11am-2pm “Cost of Freedom” (tribute to Crosby, Stills, & Nash) 5pm-6pm Evening Vespers at St. John’s UCC, 538 E Thomas St, Coopersburg, 610-282-3310 or 267-221-8915, lite refreshmts follow, nursery care provided.

Cruise w/the Motorvator’s at Quakertown Dairy Queen, Rte 309, Qtown. $1/car donation for CHoP. 4pm-8pm, George 610-395-1558

May 22

Keystone Quilters Mtg, Quakertown Christian Sch, 50 E Paletown Rd, Qtown. $5/ guests, open 6:30pm, keystonequilters.org (Janneke Van der Ree, janneke.com)

May 23

“Shining the Light on Addiction” Candlelight Vigil, 7pm-9pm at New Bucks County Justice Center, 100 N Main St, Doylestown

May 24

Program about “Africans capture from the continent to their flight to freedom.” 7pm at Hilltown Twp Bldg, Rte 152 & 13 W Creamery Rd, Silverdale. Free, donations accepted, 267614-9174, Hilltown Twp Historical Society “Willow Grove Park Part 2” Free program presented by Richard Karshner, 7pm at Quakertown Library. Info: Kathy, Woman’s Club of Quakertown, 908-892-8458

May 27

Live Wrestling Event Outside at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. Featuring WWE Legend Tito Santana, bell time is 3:30pm. Tito arrives 1pm for autographs & merchandise sale. Bring own chairs.

Knit & Crochet for Charity meets 10am12noon at St. John’s Lutheran, 19 S 10th St, Quakertown. All are welcome. Info: Kathie 215-536-3593 or stjohnsquak@verizon.net

May 28

Free Live Concert at QMart’s Outdoor Stage, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown, 215-536-4115.

Performance by “USO Show” 11am-1pm

May 29 June 2

Memorial Day

Cheesesteak & French Fry Dinner 4pm7pm at Richland Twp Fire/Rescue, 64 Shell Rd, Quakertown. Eat-in or take-out. $9/adult, $8/senior, $6/kids’ hot dog & fries. Info: 610-739-5309 or 610-960-4407

June 2 & 3

Upper Perkiomen Relay for Life, Camelot Park, 1124 Church Rd, East Greenville

June 3

Flea Market 8am-2pm at Upper Bucks Activity Ctr, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown. $10/table, food avail. for purchase. 215-536-3066 Coffee w/Sen. Bob Mensch (questions/discussion) 9:15am-10:45am at Quakertown Free Library, 401 W Mill St, Quakertown. RSVP at 215-541-2388 or srasmussen@pasen.gov Trumbauersville Community Day, info: (215) 536-1761 or echild1@verizon.net 4th Annual Ice Cream Festival in Hellertown 11am-4pm. Contact Saucon Valley Community Ctr: 610-838-0722 or elissa@svcommctr.org for more info.

June 3 & 4

“Song of America” presented by Church Cantata Choir (Sat 7:30pm) (Sun 3pm) at St. John’s UCC in Richlandtown.

June 9

Golf Outing to benefit 2017 Mission Trip. $90/golfer, $40 dinner only. 12:00 registration, 1:00pm shot gun start. Butter Creek Golf Port, Barto. Call First UCC at 215-536-4447. for more information or to register.

Fri., May 5 Sat., May 6

3nd Annual

May 2017 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

S AT U R D AY

MAY 20 Q U A K E R T O W N , PA

and

Chicken BBQ Dinner Bake, Plant & Strawberry Pie Sale Birthday Party • Laser Tag

Food • Auction Bake, Plant & Strawberry Pie Sale Kid’s Activities • ID-a-Child Touch-a-Truck • Chili Cook-off

qtownchristian.org/spring 50 East Paletown Road, Quakertown, PA • 215.536.6970

Klee Named PSAC Eastern Division Softball Athlete of the Week

Choose from 4 great family-friendly events!

3 mile walk - pets welcome!

5k run 24 mile ride 42 mile ride FUN FESTIVAL ATMOSPHERE! Raffles and Prizes!

ME MELVIN - the LV Phantoms Mascot Bob Swaim - “The Bike Guy”

Shippensburg University freshman Meghan Klee was named the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Eastern Division Softball Athlete of the Week in mid-April by the league office following a week in which she hit .500 with five RBI. Klee totaled seven hits in 14 at-bats, including two doubles, over the course of four games as SU went 3-1 in doubleheaders against East Stroudsburg and the PSAC East leader, Kutztown. Against ESU, Klee was 5-for-8 with two doubles and a team-high five RBI. She then added two more hits that weekend at Kutztown, raising the freshman’s season average to .310 – good for third-best on SU.

ENJOY QUAKERTOWN

AFTER EVENT!

Register or Donate Online at

w w w. a mys r i d e r u nwa l k . co m

3

4

• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2017

My Ex Won’t Leave Me Alone and I’m Afraid.

What Should I Do?

BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ.

Think About College Savings Plans You probably won’t see it on your calendar, but May 29 (5/29) is 529 College Savings Day, or 529 Day for short. This day, named after the 529 plan, a popular college-savings vehicle, is designed to promote people’s awareness of the need to save and invest for the high costs of higher education. And that need has never been greater. Consider the following: • College prices keep moving up. College costs just keep rising. For the 2016–2017 school year, the average cost (tuition, fees, room and board) was about $20,000 for instate students at public universities and more than $45,000 for private schools, according to the College Board. These costs are likely to continue climbing.

• Student debt is at record levels. Of the Class of 2016 graduates who received loans – about 70% of the total student population – the average individual debt was $37,172, a record high, according to a study cited by CBS News.

What can you do to help your children graduate from college without having to provide a big “IOU” in exchange for a diploma? In the spirit of 529 Day, you might want to consider investing in a 529 plan. It’s certainly not the only means of saving for college, but it does offer some attractive benefits.

For starters, contribution limits are quite high – you can accumulate more than $200,000 per beneficiary in many state plans. And you can typically invest in the 529 plan offered by any state, even if you don’t reside there. If you do invest in your own state’s plan, you may be eligible for state income tax incentives.

Also, all withdrawals from 529 plans will be free from federal income taxes, as long as the money is used for a qualified college or graduate school expense of the beneficiary you’ve named — typically, your child or grandchild.

(Withdrawals for expenses other than qualified education expenditures may be subject to federal and state taxes and a 10% penalty on the earnings portion of the distribution.)

Furthermore, you have complete control of your 529 plan assets. You decide who will get the money and when he or she will get it. You can even change the beneficiary to another family member.

Keep in mind, though, that your 529 plan will be counted on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), although schools typically only consider up to 5.6% of parental assets when calculating financial aid.

And distributions from a parent-owned 529 account used for one year’s college expenses will not usually reduce next year’s financial aid eligibility. (For more information on how a 529 plan might affect your child’s financial assistance, you may want to consult with a college’s financial aid office.)

If you can find a 529 Day event in your area, you may want to attend so that you can learn more about the many aspects of saving for college. But even if you can’t personally take part in 529 Day, give some thought to a 529 plan – it might be part of the solution for helping your children earn a relatively debtfree degree. submitted by Bob Podraza in the Edward Jones office on West Broad Street, Quakertown.

He can be reached at 215-536-3635 or at bob.podraza@edwardjones.com

We all know that most relationships don’t work out. Most of the time, the parties go their separate ways after the breakup and move on with their lives. However, the situation can turn dangerous when one party refuses to let go or feels as though they were wronged and tries to “get even”. So if you find yourself in this situation, what is the proper course of action? I’m sure a lot of you are reading this and thinking to yourself, “Get a restraining order!” While that is the right idea, the correct Pennsylvania legal term for a “Stay Away Order” in these situations is a Protection From Abuse Order.

What type of Abuse Do PFA’s Cover?

The Protection from Abuse Act covers the following types of abuse: • Causing or trying to cause physical harm, with or without a weapon; • Rape or sexual assault; • Physical or sexual abuse of minor children; • Placing someone in reasonable fear of immediate and serious physical harm (this can include threatening phone calls); • Following someone around (stalking) or repeatedly committing other acts that cause the

person reasonable fear of bodily injury; or • Interfering with a person’s freedom of movement.

• *mental or emotional abuse is not covered under the law.

Who qualifies for protection under the law?

Any of the following people can qualify for protection under the PFA Act: • Spouses or ex-spouses; • Family members, including parents, inlaws, and children; • Current or past “intimate” partners. This does not require sexual intimacy, merely a couple dates will suffice; and • Biological parents of a child.

If you find yourself in a situation where a family member or ex-partner is placing you in a fearful position, or if you know of someone in a similar situation, make sure you contact an experienced family law attorney right away.

Don’t wait until it is too late. Your safety and the safety of your loved ones is much too valuable.

Robert E. Fravel, Esq. is a solo practitioner in Dublin, Pennsylvania who specializes in estate planning & administration, family law and business law.

You can contact him at (267) 227-9138 or ref@fravel-law.com.

“Among the changing months, May stands confest the sweetest, and in fairest colors dressed.” - James Thomson

LEAVE DEPRESSION BEHIND Depression?

Hopelessness?

That was yesterday.

Sertoma Recognizes Autumn Kovacs for Winning Essay

Autumn Kovacs, a fourth grader at Quakertown Elementary, was named the winner of this year’s Heritage Essay contest sponsored by the Upper Bucks Sertoma Club.

There were 388 entries this year.

Autumn will be recognized at the club’s Heritage Breakfast at the Upper Bucks YMCA on Thursday, May 4.

Here is her winning essay: The People who Really Matter Do you know people that you know you won’t forget? I do because Girl Scout Troop 21303 are my heros. Everyone treats me like I belong and inspires me to grow into an amazing person for the future.

I feel a sense that I belong because my troop is a second family to me. The girls make me feel special because every time I am greeted by my friends saying, “Yay, you’re here! Would you like to play with me? Just put your jacket next to mine.”

Every Monday, I come and learn more with my ‘sisters.’ Sometimes it’s about my surroundings and experimenting with light bulbs and other times we sit in a circle and learn what to do in a situation.

Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is • Safe, effective, clinically proven to help those with Depression • Magnetic pulses to stimulate brain structures • FDA-cleared, non-invasive and non-medication treatment • 20-minute daily sessions for 4-6 weeks Now accepting Medicare and other insurances.

My Girl Scout troop are my heroes because everyone treats me like I belong and inspires me to grow. My troop is made perfectly like an amazing birthday present. As well as, honorable to be able to have them in my life to remember. I love all the adventures we go on because I get to make many memories.

For my Girl Scout Troop 21303 and I will love them forever.

Call us today and get your life back! www.newvitaewellness.com 215-538-3403 ext. 314

May 2017 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

5

Have something to share with your community? Send us the details! info@ubfp.org • fax: 215-839-3421 • 582 S. West End Blvd• Quakertown, PA 18951

Ongoing Events & Resources Summer Science Academy Classes at Perkiomen Watershed Conservancy in Schwenksville. Costs info/pre-regis. with paymt required, 610-287-9383. (“Green Growing Things” June 12-15, ages 3-6) (“Summer Explorers” July 10-14 & Aug 14-1, K-3rd gr) (“Summer Afield” June 19-23 or July 24-28, 4th6th gr) (“Exploring the East Branch Creek” June 29 or July 6, K-4th gr) perkiomenwatershed.org Quakertown Farmers Market Auctions 1st & 3rd Fri/month w/Les Beyer, 2nd & 4th Sat/month w/Tom Lorah, call 215-536-4115 for info Hoagie Sales 2nd Monday of month (except July/August) at Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 North Main St, advance orders due Wed. before. $5.50-$6.00, info/order: Kim 215-536-1998 or bucks58fire.com All Veterans invited to join Forrest Lodge VFW, 2118 Old Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville. Call Frank 215-679-7770 Veterans invited 7:30pm, fourth Monday each month at VFW Post 3405, at 211 E Fairmount St, Coopersburg. Call for details at 610-282-1840 Veterans invited 1:30pm, second Sunday each month at John Rivers Memorial VFW Post 11322, 41 Belmont Ave, Quakertown, 267-3719636 (bring DD 214 for proof eligibility) PetSmart Adoption Day is 2nd Saturday each month, 11am-2pm, PetSmart, 620 N.West End Blvd, Quakertown, 215-538-2843 or lastchanceranch.org Last Chance Ranch Volunteer Orientation/ Tour, 1st Saturday each month, 10am-11am in front of Horse Barn, 9 Beck Rd, Quakertown, 215-538-2510 lastchanceranch.org

Support & Service Groups

Singles Connection for adults meets Thursdays for social evening, 7pm at Silverdale Brethren in Christ Church, 165 W. Main St, Silverdale. 215593-9995 or email carolonline1@verizon.net Sisters U Monthly Meetings 7pm-9pm the third Thurs every month in Perkasie, info: 267429-3196, stef@sistersu.com, Parent Support Group on Addiction meets 7pm, first & third Wed every month in Red Schoolhouse, Presbyterian Church Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Bedminster. Info: batchof5@yahoo.com Family Education on Addiction meets 7pm, first three Mondays every month in the Red School House, Presbyterian Church Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. Free, register 800-221-6333 SOS Bereavement After Suicide, Family Support Group at St. Luke’s Quakertown Hospital twice monthly, info/details call 215-536-5143 Brain Injury Family/Spousal/Partner Support Group 6pm-8pm the third Monday every month at First UCC, Church Parlor, 4th & Park Ave, Quakertown, 215-538-3488 or 610-558-1326 Caregiver Support Group meets last Thurs. every month, Independence Court of Quakertown, 1660 Park Ave, (meal provided), RSVP: 215-5419030 to attend a meeting.

Caregiver Support Group 4pm-5pm, meets last Thur. of month, Hidden Meadows, 340 Farmers Ln, Sellersville, (tour & complimentary lunch), 267-429-3931, hiddenmeadowsontheridge.com Ann Silverman Community Health Clinic (for uninsured eligible residents), 595 W State St, Doylestown. Call to schedule an eligibility appointment at 215-345-2260. aschealthclinic.org

Alzheimer’s Support Group, Phoebe Richland Health Care Ctr, 108 S. Main St, Richlandtown.

Free, more info: Social Services 267-371-4512, nkoval@phoebe.org Alzheimer’s Support Group, Hidden Meadows on the Ridge, 340 Farmers Ln, Sellersville. RSVP 267-429-3931 NOVA (Network Of Victim Assistance) Support Groups, NOVA hotline 1-800-675-6900. www.NOVABucks.org Bedminster Nar-Anon meets Tues 7pm, Deep Run West Mennonite, 1008 Deep Run Rd, Perkasie, for family/friends of those struggling w/addiction, Bedminster.naranon@yahoo.com A Woman’s Place (support for domestic abuse/ violence) 24-hour Hotline 1-800-220-8116, www.awomansplace.org UB Kiwanis meets 1st Wed of month 7:30am at Panera Bread, 4th Wed of month 12:30pm at Dominick’s Pizza, Quakertown Quakertown Lions Club meets 2nd & 4th Wed each month, 7pm at John’s Plain & Fancy Restaurant, Quakertown Quakertown Rotary Club meets (1st & 3rd Tues 7:30am at John’s Plain & Fancy Restaurant) (2nd, 4th, & 5th Tues 6pm at Spinnerstown Hotel) Business Networking International (BNI) meets every Thurs 7am-8:30am at John’s Plain & Fancy in Quakertown, membership info: James Dodson – jamescovie@yahoo.com Believers in Business (Qtwn Chapter) meets 2nd & 4th Friday each month, 7:30am-9am at John’s Plain & Fancy Restaurant in Quakertown, info at 610-762-8054

Community Meals

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

Free Community Meal second, fourth & fifth Weds.of month, 6pm, Richland Friends Quaker Meeting. Mill Rd & Main St off Route 309, Qtwn, 215-538-7555 Free Community Meal third Thurs of month, 5:30pm-6:30pm, First UCC, 4th & Park, Qtwn, 215-536-4447 Free Community Meal first Thurs. of month, 5:45pm, Yerger Bldg across from Trinity Lutheran, 102 N Hellertown Ave Quakertown

Bingo

Bingo at Encore Experiences, 2nd Sat of month, 312 Alumni Ave, Harleysville, details: 215-256-6900 Bingo at Milford Twp Fire Hall every Thur, 12:15pm (first Thur. of month has $50 Jackpot), 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown, 215-536-3066 Bingo at West End Fire Co every Wed, open 5:30pm, (refreshments avail, smoke-free), cash prizes, 1319 Park Ave, Quakertown, 215-536-6130 Bingo at Richland Twp Fire & Rescue every Tues, open 5:30pm, 64 Shelly Rd, Qtwn.

215-536-7226 Bingo at Great Swamp Fish & Game every Sat, open 4pm, games 6:30pm, kitchen open. Free coffee, 2650 Schukraft & Camp Rock Hill Rd, Qtwn, 215-536-8820 Bingo at Sellersville Fire Co. every Thurs. (except July) open 5:30pm, 2 N. Main St, 215-257-4028 Bingo at Tylersport Fire Co. every Tues. open 5:30pm, 125 Ridge Rd, 215-257-5900 Bingo at American Legion Post 397, 1st & 3rd Friday of the month, open 6pm, 935 Main St, Hellertown, 484-851-3624

6

• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2017

Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship Bible Baptist Church

meets at Strayer Middle School Auditorium 1200 Ronald Reagan Drive, Quakertown 267-772-0288 www.biblebaptistcares.org Pastor: Thomas 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 215-536-3193 Pastor: Carolann Hopcke 9:00am Worship, 10:15 Sunday School Free Drive-in Movies Friday evenings June through August, Handicapped accessible, Family Friendly Church

Church of the Incarnation

44 S. 8th Street, Quakertown 215-538-3787 Ardores@verizon.net www.IncarnationQuakertown.org Pastor: Most Rev. Thomas J. Kleppinger Traditional worship, Biblical faith Sunday 10:30am, 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!

Evangel Assembly of God

401 Arch Street, Perkasie 215-453-1565 • www.perkasieag.org Pastor: Rev. Gary Saul Where God’s Love Changes Lives

First United Church of Christ

Fourth Street & Park Avenue, Quakertown 215-536-4447 info@firstUCC.net www.firstUCC.net facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertown Co-Pastors: Douglas & Joyce Donigian Traditional worship Sunday 9:15am, Alternative worship Sunday 5:15pm, Community dinners every 3rd Thursday 5:30pm

First United Methodist Church

501 Market Street, Perkasie 215-257-4626 fumcperkasie@verizon.net www.fumcperkasie.com Pastor: Scott Dorn Mission: Share God’s love, Make and nurture disciples of Jesus Christ, positively impact our community and world.

Good News Church

424 Juniper Street, Quakertown 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.

Good Shepherd Church (Episcopal) 1634 Hilltown Pike, Hilltown 215-822-3930 Pastor: The Rev. Catherine Kerr 10:00am Sunday Eucharist

Grace Bible Fellowship Church

1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N., Quakertown 215-536-6096 grace@quakertownbfc.org www.quakertownbfc.org Pastor: Ron Kohl, Sr. Pastor Sunday School for all ages, 10:10am Morning Worship, Evening 1st & 3rd Sundays 6:30 pm, Small group meetings 2nd & 4th Sundays 6:30 pm, Tues: Ladies Bible study 9:30am; Wed: AWANA (2 yrs - 6th grade) & Teens for Christ 6:30 pm, Adult Bible study 7 pm.

Morning Star Fellowship

429 S. 9th Street, Quakertown 215-529-6422 Pastor: John Decker www.mstarqtown.org Services at 9am & 11am, Children’s Ministry provided, EastWest Cafe open with free coffee. Celebrate recovery Wednesday 7pm.

Check website for more info.

MorningStar Moravian Church

610-282-1908 234 S. Main Street, Coopersburg coopmoravian@aol.com Pastor: Jay Petrella Sunday services 10:00am. Small, friendly Protestant church. Community mission: Serving free dinners once per month. All are welcome. Call for information.

Pennridge Christian Fellowship

720 Blooming Glen Road, Blooming Glen 215-257-7309 kallebach@pennridgecf.org www.pennridgecf.org Pastor: Thomas Vargis

Sunday worship 10:30am, Sunday School after song service (infants to age 12), Wed evenings 7pm w/ prayer, Crossroads youth.

All are welcome.

Quakertown United Methodist Church

1875 Freier Road, Quakertown 215-536-4992 barb@qumc.com www.qumc.com Pastor: Rev. Dr. Thomas S. Robinson III Sunday morning worship: 8:00am, 9:00am 11:00am Sunday School for all ages 10:00am.

Richland Friends Meeting (Quaker)

Main St at Mill Rd & Park Ave, Quakertown 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.”

Ridge Valley United Church of Christ

905 Allentown Road, Sellersville 215-257-7244 rvucc.pastor@verizon.net www.ridgevalleyucc.org Pastor: Rev. Steve Myren We are a vibrant, welcoming Family of Faith.

Worship: Sundays 9:30am. Ridge Valley: Growing Together in God’s Love.

St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown

1565 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Spinnerstown 215-536-0734 stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org Pastor: The Rev. Axel Kaegler Worship service 9:45 am, Sunday School 9 9:45 am - children 3 years through 6th grade

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

104 Green Street, Sellersville 215-257-7268 stacey@stpaulsucc.net www.stpaulsucc.net 8:00 am Rejoice & Praise Worship in Parlor, 9 am Sunday School - all ages, 10:15 Worship in Sanctuary

Trinity Great Swamp UCC

Spinnerstown Rd & County Line Rd Spinnerstown 215-679-7710 tgsucc@verizon.net www.tgsucc.org Pastor: David R. Ellis / Matt Gorkos Sunday School classes for all ages (preK adult) 9:15 am. Family activities throughout the year

Trinity Lutheran Church

102 N. Hellertown Avenue, Quakertown 215-536-4345 www.trinityquakertown.org Pastor: Lynette R. Chapman 9am Traditional Service, 10:15am FaithQuest, 11am Contemporary Service. Handicapped Accessible, Family Friendly Church, Dynamic Music Ministry. Living God’s Love for All.

Victory Fellowship Church

120 Ridge Road, Telford 215-453-9988 victoryfellowshippa@gmail.com www.victoryfellowshippa.org Pastor: Dr. Virgil A. Mobley Full Gospel.A friendly, loving, and joyful church where the presence of God is in His house. Check out our website.

St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley

910 Allentown Road, West Rockhill Twp 215-257-9643 stjohnsridgevalley@verizon.net www.stjohnsridgevalley.com Pastor: Amy Hotter 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 stpauls@netcarrier.com www.quakertown.net/stpauls Pastor: Rev. David Heckler We believe in sharing God’s love in joyful service. Come and see. All are welcome.

Have something to share with your community? Send us the details! info@ubfp.org

May 2017 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

BY PASTOR KAT STEINLY Greetings in the name of Risen Christ!

This year, we have the opportunity to embrace the new life of Easter as new life springs up all around us in the natural world.

For me, spring is a season of promise: the promise of new life seen in baby animals, the promise of green and blooming vegetation, the promise of fresh produce, the promise of warmth, and the promise of increasing daylight. Spring invites us to open our eyes and witness the colors and the light unfolding all around us. Spring invites us to step outside and enjoy the warmer temperatures in our yards and gardens, on our porches, and in our local parks.

Like spring, Easter is a season of promise: the promise of new life, the promise of grace, the promise of God’s presence with us. Jesus’ resurrection and his appearances to the disciples is proof for us that, in Christ, God has defeated death. It is a promise to us that the light of Christ was not extinguished on Good Friday but continues to glow among us and within each of us.

Easter is also an invitation to open our eyes with the early disciples who witness the resurrected Christ. “I have seen the Lord!” Mary

7

Magdalene announces to her fellow disciples (John 20:18). “Put your finger here and see my hands,” Jesus says to Thomas (John 20:27).

Christ walks among us still, and God’s presence is made known to us in surprising ways.

Finally, Easter is an invitation to step outside. “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you,” Jesus says to the frightened disciples as they sit in a locked room. In the same way, Jesus encourages us to step out of our comfort zones physically and figuratively. We are invited to be his disciples outside of our houses of worship. We are invited to share the good news with people who are different from us.

How will you embrace the promise of new life that we receive this Easter season? How will you take the time to open your eyes to God’s presence in your daily life? How will you put aside fear and be sent into the world to share the abundant life of God? As you act out the invitations of Easter, I pray that God’s peace is with you.

In Christ, Pastor Kat Steinly Kat Steinly is the pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Richlandtown. Reach her at pastor@stjohnsrpa.org

Getting Unstuck

Pastor David Genszler was installed as pastor for St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Quakertown, in February. Pictured: (l-r) Pastor Carolann Hopcke, Jacqueline Tindall, Kathy Afflerbach, Dale Rodgers, Pastor David Genszler, and Martha Fisher submitted photo

This topic of feeling stuck and stagnant and unmotivated to change is a familiar conversation in my counseling and coaching sessions. It can be so frustrating to be in the same place (let’s just emotionally) month after month and even year after year having this desire to be somewhere else but you just can’t seem to be able to get where you want to go or do what you want to do. First you need to figure out why you are stuck? Are there circumstances in your life keeping you stuck? Are you someone who gives up easily when things don’t work out as quickly as you would like?

As far as I am concerned everything is a process and time and patience are crucial in us moving forward with our lives and getting unstuck. I always say that most of us have “would of’s” “could of’s” and “should of’s”…. and so, when we are here in the present still feeling frustrated as to why we are not where we really want to be we go back to WHY??? I believe that if we could have changed those things back then we would have but for whatever reason we were unable to change. So now in the present since we are sick and tired and don’t want to be stuck anymore, we will more than likely have a better chance of getting unstuck.

Hopefully we will have a better understanding of why things didn’t work out in the past and what we need to do now in the present to make those changes.

The simple concept of losing weight. You know what you need to do simply eat less and better and exercise on a regular basis. Yet here you are still feeling frustrated and hopeless that you can’t seem to get yourself on track.

Most people in general feel overwhelmed by their lives with all the daily responsibilities of family, children, work act. So the thought

of having to get up and exercise even for only 15 minutes and plan a healthy lunch or dinner can seem impossible. Having to be mindful of everything that you eat and when you are going to find time to exercise with everything else going on in your life. Yikes!! Some of us are just plain tired and lack the motivation to take better care of ourselves. Even though we know it would be in our best interest to lose weight and feel better about ourselves.

So, the question becomes how do we get ourselves motivated and unstuck? We make a decision that the time is now and keep it simple. Take your time in deciding how many days a week or for how long you are going to exercise and get used to exercising. Once you start to exercise on a more regular basis you will start to feel better mentally and physically that you won’t allow yourself to have excuses.

You will be able to get out of bed in the morning and even drag yourself out and say, “go for a walk or run you will feel better.”

In most cases, you will feel so good about yourself for taking care of yourself. And in the end actually have more motivation which in turns creates a lifestyle change that will become a more natural process and you will start to look at food differently and say, “Hmmmm… should I be eating this?” NOPE… or maybe YES because I will be going on a 3 mile walk or run. Something to think about. So be patient with yourself. Decide that YOU are a priority and that change is in your best interest.

Because YOU are your best interest!! My belief is “that all persons are truly greater than they think they are.”

Susan V. Brewer is a Certified Life Coach and Psychotherapist in the Upper Bucks County Area. She can be reached at 215-872-4219.

Visit her website at www.balancelife4u.com.

“Never yet was a springtime, when the buds forgot to bloom.”

- Margaret Elizabeth Sangster

8

• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2017

Pennridge 8th Grader Leads Effort to Provide 10,000 Meals to Hungry

BY CHRISTOPHER BETZ What does it take to feed 10,000 people?

An eighth-grader, her friends and classmates, some money, and a true desire to help others.

Madeline Hoffman is that eighth-grader.

She and fellow students at Penn North Middle School in Perkasie spent their after-school hours one day in April assembling and packing up thousands of meals that will be distributed all over the world. But that event was set in motion long before.

Hoffman’s philanthropy started some three years ago with a project called the Buddee Bag, named for her great-grandmother.

“My grandmom taught me to sew and I was working on some community service projects with her when I got the idea to start my own,” remarks Hoffman.

The Buddee Bag line includes wheelchair and walker bags, hospital bed bags, neck pillows, among other things. Hoffman donates these items to local nursing homes, hospitals, and to anyone else who may need them.

“I have given them to students through the Bucks County Intermediate Unit and to the Ronald McDonald House at Children’s Hospital. This year, I started a club at North Middle School where about 20 other students are also sewing these bags, as well as burp clothes for the hospital.”

Hoffman has also made drawstring bags and filled them with toiletries and given them to Doylestown Hospital who in turn gave them to homeless individuals in the community.

Having participated in ‘food packing events’ to help feed the hungry in the past, Hoffman decided this year that she’d take a stab at spearheading her own.

“I asked my principal if we could do our own food packing event and he said yes, so I began to try to raise the money.”

Hoffman and her classmates raised $2000 to purchase ingredients for the meals. Hoffman

Would you like to know more about the Master Gardener program; or perhaps even want to become a Master Gardener?

Penn State Master Gardeners are volunteers trained in horticulture and environmental stewardship by Penn State University faculty and Cooperative Extension staff. Bucks County Master Gardeners, under the oversight of the Cooperative Extension staff, provide educational opportunities and programs in home gardening horticulture for residents of Bucks County. These Quakertown Free Press articles, published over the past 26 months by two Bucks County Master Gardeners, are just one example of Master Gardeners sharing their knowledge with others.

The process to become a Master Gardener starts with an application and interview.

If selected to pursue a Master Gardener Certification, applicants will pay a course fee and begin basic training classes. This fall, classes will be held on Thursday evenings from 5:45 pm to 9:00 pm, beginning October 5, 2017 and ending March 15, 2018, with a final exam on March 22nd. All classes will be held in the auditorium at the Penn State Extension office at Neshaminy Manor Center in Doylestown. Successful applicants must pass the exam and complete 50 hours of volunteer service and 10 hours of continuing education in the following year to earn their certification.

Until the first year’s requirements are fulfilled the Master Gardener graduates are considered apprentices. Thereafter, as certified Master Gardeners, 10 hours of continuing education and 20 hours of volunteer service are required to maintain active Master Gardener status.

If you want to learn more or wish to complete an application for the 2017 Bucks County Master Gardener class, please contact Penn State Master Gardener Coordinator Kathleen Connally at kxc30@psu.edu or 215-345-3283.

The application deadline for this class is May 31st.

For more information: http://extension.psu. edu/plants/master-gardener/counties/bucks Spring is in full swing and home gardening is a hotbed of activity! If you started seeds for your vegetable garden or flower bed it will soon be time to “harden off” the young plants by introducing them to the outside environment for a few hours each day, out of direct sunlight.

You have no doubt planned your garden,

tested your soil and prepared for planting.

Keep a close eye on the daily weather and possible frost warnings. If you are going to plant before mid-to-late May, be prepared to cover those tender plants.

When the danger of frost is over, very conservatively May 30th in Quakertown, it’s time to reintroduce your houseplants to their outside home. Carefully inspect each plant to make sure they’re healthy. Moving plants from one environment to another can stress the plant and make them more susceptible to pathogens and insect infestation so introduce them slowly as you would any new plant.

A diagnosis challenge.

Recently, I inspected my indoor plants in preparation for transferring them to the outside environment.

I found a shiny, sticky substance on the leaves of the Schleffera. I recognized this substance as honeydew, a sugary plant sap excreted by aphids and other juice-sucking plant-feeding insects. After inspecting the underside of the leaves and all other parts of the Schleffera I found no sign of insect infestation. Next, I checked other plants in close proximity. I found an aphid infestation on several branches of a nearby tropical hibiscus. What to do?

I immediately removed and isolated the hibiscus. Treatment consisted of spraying the plant with water, outdoors on a warm day, to dislodge as many aphids as possible. Then, I removed all damaged leaves and branches.

Next I’ll closely observe this plant for further infestation. If the aphids reappear I may resort to an insecticidal soap.

Further inspection of my indoor plants revealed aphids on a succulent plant recently gifted to me. Even though I had isolated the plant for one week and did a visual inspection I had missed the tiny culprits. Again, I isolated and treated the affected plant.

Adult aphids are winged insects that deposit their wingless young, called nymphs, and then fly off to find another host. The nymphs feed on the tender new growth of the plant, often distorting the growth or causing the leaves to yellow and drop. Yes, Master Gardeners use their diagnostic skills on their own plants!

Need help diagnosing a plant problem? Call our free Horticultural Hotline for help.

Mon - Fri 9:00 am to 12:00 pm 215-345-3283 Email: BucksHotline@ag.psu.edu Please mention that you heard about us through the Upper Bucks Free Press!

added $500 she received from Youth Service America, an organization that encourages community volunteerism by youth. She also secured grants from the Disney Company and international food distributor Sodexo.

“I always look for grant opportunities through organizations like YSA so that I can continue to do projects like this.”

The meals Hoffman and her crew assembled will be distributed around the world with the help of the ‘Stop Hunger Now’ organization.

Matthew Cole, the principal at Hoffman’s school and a member of the crew that packed food for the project, remarks, “It’s truly amazing. It fascinates me that someone this young has taken on such a big project.”

Not one to rest on her past charitable efforts, Hoffman is already well into her next endeavor.

“My newest project is for Shriners Hospital in Philadelphia. I am currently making drawstring bags to fill with toys, coloring books, etcetera to give to children who are in the hospital for an extended stay. I have many of the bags completed and now I am looking for donations of new items to fill the bags and make a child’s day.”

Hoffman says she gets lots of support from her grandparents, parents, brother, and groups she belongs to such as the American Sewing Guild.

“I wouldn’t be able to do these projects without generous donations from all kinds of people.”

Madeline Hoffman is a super example of our youth using their talents and energies to make life better for others in so many ways. To learn more about Maddie or help her to fulfill her missions, visit www.buddeebags.com “You have to try it. It’s not going to hurt no matter how old you are. You just try and do something nice for somebody!”

Good advice.

top photo: Madeline Hoffman (center) works with others to measure and package ingredients for meals to be provided to the hungry wherever needed. center photo: Packages of food boxed and ready to be transported to Stop Hunger Now’s depot for delivery. bottom photo: School principal, Matthew Cole (left) works as a member of the crew to package food. photos by christopher betz

May 2017 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

9

Were We Poor Back Then?

Recently I read an article about our 2017 School Tax situation and what the School Board’s proposals were to keep the property taxes in alignment for our area. In the article it quoted a percentage of over 25% in our area were of “Poverty Level.” This struck me with amazement as I look at all the developments or communities that have arrived in our area with the advent of “Public Sewers” in the latter part of the 20th Century in our towns and townships. I drive to town and see all these homes that would have been “castles” when my generation grew up in the area. Were we poor back then?

I feel that our area is now a bedroom community as most of the offices and manufacturing are “outside the area.” The other morning I had occasion to go out to Trumbauersville before 7:00 AM and was amazed at the traffic on Allentown Road, Rt. 663, Rt. 309, and on Broad Street where I was going. This confirmed my “Bedroom Community Analysis.

Back in the day when the school districts of the individual townships consolidated to form the Quakertown “Community” School District many “New” schools were built to facilitate the changes needed for the consolidation.

Requirements for salary, retirement, curriculum, and building of these schools were a lot different at that time. The boroughs were mostly homes built before the Second World War. Builders such as my schoolmate’s father (Dave Portzer) were adding small ranch homes, cape cod homes, and a few two stories less than 2000 square foot homes around the perimeter of town. Our township line road was named after Mr. Portzer. Because of not having more development and the mortgage loan rules back then, many lived on “Rent.”

Were we poor back then?

Some people in the area worked “At the Steel”, “At the Gauge”, or down in Lansdale at Philco Ford or at Merck for the furthest employment. The greater percentage worked at the Clothing Factories, Furniture factories, Silk Mills, Endora Plant, or small machine shops in the area all starting at 7:00 AM. The local factories did not pay near as well as the manufacturing plants I mentioned in the first sentence in this paragraph. Still we built the High School in the mid 50’s, Tohickon Valley Elementary, Richland Elementary, Pfaff Elementary, Haycock Elementary on the subtle taxes on the existing older homes and smaller post war homes being built. A few years later we added Strayer Jr. High School and Milford Jr. High School. How did we do it? Most clothing factories paid smaller wages. What

was Upper Bucks’ Poverty level back then?

Were we poor back then?

When my wife and I married in the early 70’s I remember going to the local bank and applying for a mortgage. There weren’t any fancy programs except for the GI Bill available. We applied for a mortgage on a 10-acre property with a barn and an old log home that needed work for the price of $25,000 plus the cost of a septic system needed. The mortgage was reviewed by the bank board of directors, who went out to see the property, and unfortunately was turned down because of the work needed on the house. They said it should be torn down. Today that home and barn are well preserved and certainly are an asset to the area. We did purchase a home on 4 acres for $39,900 using the GI Bill financed by a Philadelphia bank. They required an appraisal by a licensed appraiser. Taxes were reasonable and included in the mortgage. It was a struggle but we paid it off. Were we poor back then?

We still live in that house that we have improved over the years. It is still considered a Cape Cod and we added a few more acres purchased from the neighboring farm. As I drive towards Quakertown from our home outside of Trumbauersville, I pass these developments or communities added since Public Sewer and Water inclusion off of Allentown Road, near Milford Square, off of Tollgate Road and indeed these homes have many more square feet than our rural 1950’s cape cod. In reading this article, I was amazed to see the large percentage of Poverty Level families in the School District with these much large homes built after the School Consolidation in the period after World War II. I also was surprised to see some of the other statistics on percentages of expenses in our school district that have nothing to do with the education of our children.

With all these extra costs as listed, it sure was fortunate that we didn’t have them back then or we certainly would not have had the schools they are now talking of shutting down after all these years of producing fine educated youth.

As I look back at the level of earnings that our parents, and yes we who were “stick in the muds” after them had earned, I am glad that the regulations and requirements were minimal to what they are today. We were also fortunate to have the quality teachers that we had during that important transitional period. Most were veterans who received the education under “the GI Bill”. If back then we had the other expenses that are mandated today, we would not have had the schools we have because we folks in the Upper Bucks area “Were indeed Poor Back Then” by today’s standards!

Dick Helm is a regular contributor.

He can be reached at dickhelm@ubfp.org

Hope ReStored Thrift Shop Opens in Downtown Quakertown

Kim Hogan, founder and president of Hope Against Heroin, cuts the ribbon on the organization’s new thrift shop, Hope ReStored, which recently opened on West Broad Street, Downtown Quakertown.

Proceeds from the shop will support the organization’s mission in the fight against the devastating effects of drug addiction. Learn more at www.hopeagainstheroin.us. photo by christopher betz

10

• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2017

Mae K. Mease, 86, of Coopersburg,

died Wed., Mar. 29 at Souderton Mennonite Homes. She was the widow of Clifford E. Mease, Sr. Born in Lehigh County, she was a daughter of the late Solomon and Lillian (Geissinger) Kratz.

Mae worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse for many years in several places; including Quakertown Community Hospital, and the doctor’s offices of the Feigley’s and Dr. Stauffer; retiring around 1996.

Mae was a former youth leader, and was involved with the former Bread of Life Soup Kitchen in Quakertown. She loved to play games and do word searches. Mae was probably best known for her hospitable nature, and she must have served thousands of meals throughout her life.

She was a member of Swamp Mennonite Church, Quakertown.

Surviving are her children: Clifford E., Jr., wife Julia; Quakertown; Sharon L. Gehman, husband Barry, Coopersburg; Dean E., wife Rhonda, Orrville, OH; Douglas C., wife Tami, Emmaus and Donald S., wife Kathy, Green Lane; 19 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; sisters: Stella Bauman and Mary Ann Moyer, husband Arlan, all of Quakertown; and a sister-in-law, Sara Kratz, Hellertown.

She was preceded in death by an infant son, David A.; 2 great-grandsons; and a brother, Daniel Kratz.

Memorial contributions may be made to Swamp Mennonite Church at 2125 Rosedale Rd, Quakertown, PA 18951 designated to the Playground Fund.

Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown in charge of arrangements. www. nauglefcs.com

William Paul Cantono, Jr. of Erwinna, PA died Sun. Apr. 2, in his home after an extended illness. “Bill” was the loving and loved husband of Janet (nee Weglarz) and loving father of their children; William P. III (Amy), Thomas (Jennifer) and Christopher(Patricia) and loving grandfather to grandsons William P. IV, Thomas, Connor, & Dylan.

He was a graduate of Germantown Academy and Villanova University, Class of 1960. After

~Obituaries~

graduation, Bill enlisted in the Coast Guard.

When his tour of duty was completed, Bill followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, Fidele, and his father, William Paul, Sr. in the masonry construction business. Some of his Philadelphia area projects included the Liberty Bell Pavilion, Independence Mall, City Hall Courtyard, Philadelphia Art Museum and the setting of the “Rocky” statue for the “Rocky” movie, Logan Circle and Washington and Rittenhouse Square. Projects also included several area churches; St. Monica’s & the Ukrainian Cathedral, and some college and universities; Villanova’s Law and Science buildings, College of Pharmacy, Swarthmore, St. Joseph’s and University of Pennsylvania.

In addition to his immediate family, Bill is survived by his brother, Lawrence (Denise) and sisters; Claire and Joan.

Funeral services are private. Memorial contributions should be made to a charity of choice. The family was assisted by Naugle Funeral and Cremation Service, Quakertown. www.nauglefcs.com

Shirley Jane Yoder died Wed. April

5th at the age of 80 years and 5 months. She was born on Nov. 5, 1936 in Allentown, PA as the fifth child of Charles and Margaret (Reichenbach) Fillman.

Shirley was married to David D. Yoder on November 5, 1955. They reared three sons, Jonathan David Yoder, wife Nancy Tyler, Jeffrey Dean Yoder, wife Julie Marie Gehman, and Jon Dwight Yoder, wife Julie Marie Esh. She was grandmother to nine grandchildren, Tessa Alise Yoder, Mikayla Paige Yoder, Emily Marie Yoder, Joshua Dalton Yoder, Kate Marie Yoder, Rachael Marie Yoder, Megan Elizabeth Yoder, Zachary David Yoder, and Katelyn Anne Yoder.

Some of her favorite readings were: “Don’t be afraid, my love is stronger than your fear, and I promised to always be near,” “God wants to paint your life with joy,” “When your world seems to be falling apart, look to Jesus who holds everything together,” “Joy is the peace of God dancing in our hearts regardless of our circumstances,” “Faith is like a tender plant, rooted in Christ alone, watered by the Spirit and the Word, strengthened by the winds of

adversity and the sunshine of blessings.”

Shirley attended Eastern Mennonite College for two years and spent one year in Costa Rica in language school. She served with her husband and their family in Mexico as missionaries for ten years. After returning from Mexico, she worked at Eastern Mennonite High School as administrative assistant for 29½ years. She and her family attended Park View Mennonite Church in Harrisonburg, VA. After retiring, she and her husband moved to Pennsylvania where they attended Roedersville Mennonite Church, and she served part-time at Quakertown Christian School for nearly nine years. Since February, 2016, she and David lived at Souderton Mennonite Homes where care was provided until the end of her life.

Shirley appreciated her siblings, Kenneth Fillman, Richard Fillman, Pauline Fillman Wanner, and Florence Fillman Semmel who all preceded her in death. Special gratitude is extended to her niece Linda Fillman Lenhart whose love and frequent visits sustained and encouraged Shirley in her later years.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Eastern Mennnonite School, Shirley J. Yoder Financial Aid Endowment, 901 Parkwood Dr., Harrisonburg, VA 22802.

Naugle Funeral and Cremation Service, Quakertown, is in charge of arrangements. www.nauglefcs.com

James E. “Jim” Gross, 67, of Spinnerstown, died Thurs. Apr. 6th at his home. He was the husband of Susan (Hieter) Gross for 36 years.

Born in Quakertown, he was a son of the late Earl and Evelyn (Buzby) Gross.

He owned and operated Primitive Seasons in Dublin. He also owned Field of Dreams Landscapes for many years.

Surviving with his wife is his daughter, Megan Gross Sauter, Husband Andrew of Quakertown; brothers, Thomas Gross of Coopersburg, and John Gross, wife Laurie of Quakertown; sister, Deborah Loew, husband Michael of Quakertown; nieces and nephews, Michael Gross, Laurie Brandis, Dana Ropchock, Derek Gross, Jessie Loew, and Jackie Rinyu.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Upper Bucks SPCA, 60 Reservoir Road, Quakertown, PA 18951, or Pennsylvania Parks and Forest Foundation - Lake Nockamixon State Park, 1845 Market St., Suite 202, Camp Hill, PA 17011. www.nauglefcs.com Colleen Catherine Damon, 48, of

Milford Square, passed peacefully Thur., April 6, 2017 at St. Luke’s Hospital – Fountain Hill.

She was the loving wife of Philip A. Damon for 28 years.

She was born in Abington, a daughter of Joseph D. Donohue. Shortly after high school Col received her certification to be a Licensed Practical Nurse. One of her greatest passions was caring for the elderly, and for years she worked for different nursing homes in the area, including Valley Manor in Coopersburg.

Col was a member of Zion Lutheran Evangelical Church, Zion Hill.

Surviving with her proud husband are her children: Philip J. Damon, Milford Square; Emily C. Damon, Whitehall Twp.; and Rebekah E. Damon, Milford Square; her grandchildren, Leia M. Damon and Norah Mayer; her siblings: Joseph D. Donohue, Norristown; Joseph McCarthy, wife Pam, Roslyn; Dennis Rimmer, FL; Lydia Morton, husband Dennis, Souderton; Eva Stauffer, husband John, Lancaster; and Deborah Root, Warrington; and her mother, Carol Boyce, NM. Memorial contributions can be made to the Upper Bucks SPCA, 60 Reservoir Road, Quakertown, PA 18951.

Joseph B. Turner, Jr., 90, of Quakertown died Sat. Apr. 8th at Phoebe Richland Health Care Center, Richlandtown. He was the husband of the late Dorothy (Stowell) Turner.

Born in Allentown, he was the son of the late Joseph and Mary Edna (Bealer) Turner Sr. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII. Surviving is his daughter, Linda Grawe, husband John of Quakertown, Son, James Tuner, wife Joan of Nags Head, NC; grandchildren, Kimberly, Joseph, Thomas, Casey, and Daniel; eleven great grandchildren. He was predeceased by a son, Scott Turner, and a grandson, Scott Grawe.

Services are private at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Legion Post 242, 610 E. Broad Street, Quakertown, PA 18951.

Naugle Funeral and Cremation Service, Quakertown, is in charge of arrangements. www.nauglefcs.com

Dorothy Nye, 95, of Quakertown, died Tues., April 11, 2017 at St. Luke’s Hospice House, Bethlehem. She was the widow of Robert M. Nye, Sr. Born in Steelton, she was the daughter of the late Nikola and Mary (Despotov) Todorov.

Surviving is her son, Robert M. Nye, Jr., wife Carol, of Silverdale; her grandchildren: Jennifer, Cheri, Lori, Robert III and Richard; and her great-grandchildren: John Jr., Andrew, Ryan, Alexandra, Zachary, Cole, Adam and Maxwell. She was preceded in death by 3 brothers and a sister: Nicholas, Spasia, Thomas and Cecilia.

Private interment will be held at the convenience of the family in Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown.

The family will provide flowers. Memorials may be sent to VNA of St. Luke’s Hospice, 801 Ostrum Street, Bethlehem, PA 18015.

Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown in charge of arrangements. www.nauglefcs.com Geraldine “Jean” (Doney) Yerkes, 77, of Quakertown, passed away Tue., Apr. 11, 2017 at her daughter’s home in Nesquehoning.

Born in Redkey, IN, she was a daughter of the late Steward and Christina E. (Landis) Loux.

Jean was a life member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Unit 255, Sellersville.

She loved to spend time with her family; and enjoyed making arts and crafts.

She was a member of Morning Star Fellowship Church, Quakertown.

Surviving are her children: Christina Bender, husband Conrad, Zionsville; Georgetta Perez, husband Dulcilio, Nesquehoning; Richard Leister, wife Andrea, Magna, UT; Theodore Leister, wife Morgan, Pipersville and Andrew Leister, wife Susan, Quakertown; 25 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; step children: Lisa Green, husband Terry; William Yerkes, wife Patti and Chuck Yerkes, wife Heather; and siblings: Richard Doney, wife Sandy, Boca Raton, FL; Joyce Young, Greensburg; Catherine Swiderski, Sellersville and Willard Loux, Perkasie. She was preceded in death by infant triplets; 2 brothers and 2 sisters.

Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown in charge of arrangements. www.nauglefcs.com Danny O’Donnell, “The Master of the Banjo”, 82, of Coopersburg, died Easter Sunday, Apr. 16, 2017 at Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest.

He was the loving husband of Dolores (Rutz) O’Donnell for 49 years.

Born in Allentown, he was a son of the late Hugh and Agnes (Ginner) O’Donnell.

Danny was a 1953 graduate of Whitehall High School.

He served with the US Marines during the Korean War. For over 50 years Danny played banjo and was a successful Vaudeville performer primarily up and down the east coast, including radio and TV performances. His natural musical talent earned him the nickname “Master of the Banjo”.

He was employed by Mack Trucks in Allentown for 30 years and a member of the UAW (United Auto Workers).

Danny was a member of St. Isidore’s Catholic Church, Quakertown; and of the Freemasons.

Surviving with his wife are his children: Danny O’Donnell II, Bethlehem; Paul O’Donnell, wife Jeanine, West Chester and Erin Lee, husband Bruce, Yardley; grandchildren: Ryan O’Donnell, Kade O’Donnell, Kyra O’Donnell, Ella O’Donnell, Sean Lee and Owen Lee; and siblings: James O’Donnell, wife Juanita, Wilkes-Barre; Hugh O’Donnell, wife Judith, New Tripoli and Noreen Weikel, Alburtis. www.nauglefcs.com Jerome A. “Jay” Youtz, 65, of Quakertown, died Wednesday, April 19 at his home. He was the husband of Kathleen (Steyaert) Youtz.

Born in Plainfield, NJ, he was the son of the late Jerome W. and Mary (Grady) Youtz.

He was a loving husband, father, and family man. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing golf.

Jay’s passion was recovery, not only in his own personal journey, but he then shared his experience, strength, and hope in all the lives he touched. He had many life accomplishments including becoming a certified addiction counselor, founding the Pennsylvania Recovery Organization Achieving Community Together (PROACT), and owner of Recovery At Our House. His years of experience led him to

May 2017 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

Wayne A. Kotrba, 66, of Coopersburg, died Sat. April 22 in Lehigh Valley HospitalCedar Crest. He was the loving husband of Dr. Robin (Sperduto) Schroeder. Born in New Brunswick, NJ he was the son of the late Walter & Emilie (Hornicek) Kotrba.

Wayne was a man who loved the outdoors, both land and sea. He was a US Merchant Marine Captain licensed to operate 100 ton ships. He sailed out of Florida & New Jersey; captaining his own craft and under contract for others. Tournament sport fishing in Central America was among the highlights of his career. On land, he created a commercial blueberry farm from conception, to planting, to harvest. Although he didn’t love winter in PA, he did love feeding his birds and playing guitar. Wayne was a creative carpenter who enjoyed repurposing “old stuff” into beautiful furniture. Formerly, he served as a Lieut. with the Rutgers University Fire Dept.

Surviving with his wife, are his stepchildren Colin & Megan; brother Walter and his wife Becky; sister Susan Romeo and her husband Tom; and many close friends including a very special young friend, Andrew Ferguson.

A ceremony of remembrance to celebrate Wayne’s life will be held at noon, Sat. April 29 in the Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 135 W. Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown, with a calling hour prior at 11 am. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Ocean Conservancy (www.oceanconservancy. org) www.nauglefcs.com

Russell W. Maurer, Jr., 71, of Quakertown, died Tues. April 25th at his home. He was the loving husband of Dorothy (Fernandes) Maurer. They would have celebrated their 44thwedding anniversary on July 7. Born in Ashland, he was a son of the late Russell W., Sr. & Mary (Boyce) Maurer. Russell was a man who loved the outdoors, spending many hours at his cabin hunting and fishing. He proudly served in the Navy during the Vietnam War. He was a member or the Quakertown Lodge #512 F&AM and the Wallace Willard Keller American Legion. Russell worked for the PA Turnpike Commission, tunnel maintenance crew, for over 30 years.

Surviving with his wife, are his daughter Audrey Erdman, husband Christopher; sister Joan, husband George; and grandchildren Zackary & Zoey Erdman.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to United Cerebral Palsy Foundation of Central PA, 925 Linda Lane, Camp Hill, PA 17011. www.nauglefcs.com Robert A. Walker, 71, of Quakertown, died Tues. April 25th at his home. He was the loving husband of Lenora (Metz) Walker. Born in Bryn Mawr, he was a son of the late Robert & Wilhelmina (Anderson) Walker.

He served with the US Navy during the Korean War. As a journeyman in the tool & die manufacture, he retired in 1998 form TriBoro Electric, Doylestown.

Previously, he worked for Turbo Machine and the Budd Co. Robert was a former scout master for Troop 8, Hartsville and practiced Tae Quan Do. Surviving with his wife, are daughter Suzanne Razzi, husband Raymond Jr.; son Robert H., wife Iliana; brother William P. , and a sister-in-law Karen Bolmarcich, husband Ryan.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the church or Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 666758517. www.nauglefcs.com

Local Students Medal at PA SkillsUSA Championships Six students from the Upper Bucks area won medals at this year’s SkillsUSA State Championship held in Hershey on April 19 through 21. All attend Upper Bucks County Technical School.

Silver Medal Winners: Collision Repair Technology David Erb: Pennridge High School Diesel Equipment Technology Mason Scheetz: Pennridge High School

Extemporaneous Speaking Jay Tulio: Quakertown High School Bronze Medal Winners: CNC Technician Shanyn Simmer: Quakertown High School Customer Service Mariah Bryson: Pennridge High School Marine Service Technology Bryce Schmell: Pennridge High School

SkillsUSA Council is a nonprofit, 501 (c) 3, organization whose mission is to create a worldclass workforce, through professional development of local career and technical education students and partnerships with the local business community, to support local economic and community growth in the Greater Lehigh Valley.

BuckyGrams: carol brady, june cleaver, clair huxtable, caroline ingalls, marion cunningham, marge simpson, jill taylor, shirley partridge, olivia walton, sophia petrillo, claire dunphy, marie barone Hidden Message: Happy Mothers Day! Box Puzzle: Get away from it all!

Recovery Centers of America where he was able to implement his unique visions in reaching the still suffering addicts.

Surviving with his wife are daughters, Elizabeth Youtz and Brooklynn Youtz; step sons, Aaron (Katie) Christ, Justin Zortea, Anthony Zortea; grandchildren, Caleb and Isaiah; sister, Laura (Jim) Schreckengost; He was predeceased by a sister, Ellen Smolinski.

Memorial contributions may be made to the How To Save A Life Foundation, P.O. Box 53, Warminster, PA 18974

11

Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.

12

• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2017

Employment Opportunities

You’ve Got Maids - Hiring commercial nighttime cleaners & daytime residential cleaners. (215) 529-7837 Spor’s General Store – Help Wanted: Waitress/Deli/ Cashier/Lottery. Nights and Weekends. Must be 18 or older. Apply in person. 22 W Broad St, Trumbauersville.

Edible Arrangements - Hiring Seasonal personal skills, attention to detail, must. Call (215) 536-1298 or stop by mation and to apply. 582 S. West End

Help. Good interand reliability a store for inforBlvd, Quakertown

Pool Pro - Local pool store seeks service technicians and helpers for upcoming pool season. 1619 West End Blvd, Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-0456 Dazzle Hair & Nail Studio - Nail Technician PT / FT We’re looking for a licensed nail technician to work in our salon. To be considered please call Jennifer at 215-529-4464 or send resume to jennidazzles@gmail.com Woods’ Pools - Local pool builder seeks construction trainees. Experience a plus. technicians and helpers for upcoming pool season. 1619 West End Blvd, Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-2323 Proper Brewing Company - Food runners, Hosts, and Servers. Stop in during business hours at 117 W. Broad Street, Quakertown, or email kris@theproperbrewing.com Upper Bucks YMCA Member Service Associate - Part Time Positions Available - Tuesday 4:307:30pm and Friday 4:30-8:30pm; Saturday and Sunday 2:00-8:00pm, Full Privilege Membership Childcare Assistant Group Supervisor - Full Time Hourly, Full Privilege Membership, PTO and Health Care Teacher’s Aide - 3:45 PM – 5:30 PM with additional substituting and holiday hours, Full Privilege Membership Wellness Center Attendant - Monday, Wednesday, Friday 3:00-6:00pm, Thursday 4:00-8:00pm; Saturday, Sunday 9:00am-1:00pm, $8.00 per hour, Full Privilege Membership Art Teacher - Part Time – Hours and pay rate TBD, Full Privelege Membership. Call 215-536-YMCA (9622) or stop in to apply. 401 Fairview Avenue, Quakertown.

Upper Bucks Free Press - Marketing & Sales Opportunities.

Experience not necessary. Communication skills, reliability, and ability to work independently a must.

Great fit for students, homemakers, and retirees. Email: cjbetz@ubfp.org to inquire.

“When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child.” - Sophia Loren

May 2017 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

13

Creepy Crawlers!

The warmth of spring is great for many things… except maybe for the bugs!!

As soon as it is over that 50 degree mark – we have bugs!!! Fleas and ticks are the absolute worst, and I think we can all agree that we hate them! The options that are out there now for how to control them are staggering, so I thought I would share a few pointers and notes about choices.

Do your research – yes, there are some great over the counter options, and there are some that are protective and safe – however, there are also some that are terrible! The regulations required for over the counter flea/tick medications are pretty sad, in that there are very few, and the amount of actual oversight of these regulations are next to nothing. What this means, is that basically any company could make a flea/tick product and could make whatever label claims they want, and there is no one there making sure they are telling the truth! So you, as the consumer, need to do your leg work!

Look up the company who makes the product – do they have a good rating on BBB? Do they have studies and safety info backing up their product? What are their reviews like? Make sure you are buying a product that is going to be safe and effective!

This is where there is a benefit to purchas-

ing a medication from your veterinarian. The companies that work with veterinarians have done their job – they have safety and efficacy testing to make sure they work AND they are safe! They also often back up their product, so if your pet has a reaction they will cover the cost of treatment and any follow up needed!

You are basically also getting peace of mind.

Consider your options – do you hate the liquid flea/tick products? Or do you have a dog who will lick it off the other one? Well, there are options here now too – there are some safe longterm collars now available, as well as chewable products that can last either 1 month, or even 3 months! So don’t feel like you are stuck with those liquids if you don’t like them, though they work great and are a fine option for many people!

Lastly, the final point I want to make is a reason to use flea/tick preventatives. On top of having fleas in the house being terrible, fleas spread tapeworms, and ticks spread lots of other diseases – like lyme disease and more! So consider using a monthly product for your pet if you currently don’t – no one wants those yucky critters in the house! Happy May everyone!

Dr. Mehaffey and partner Dr. Jen Heller own and operate the Pennridge Animal Hospital on Ridge Road in Perkasie and can be reached at 267-272-9996. They also founded Harley’s Haven Dog Rescue.

Is Your Dog Telling You What to Do?

While I was visiting a friend the other day, I observed in horror as one of the most obnoxious behaviors a dog could offer unfolded right before my eyes. Not only was her dog Demand Barking but my friend was reinforcing it!

Yep, that little bugger was barking at my friend because she wanted a cookie. Little Sophia the Yorkie knew exactly where those cookies were stashed. She parked herself right in front of the cookie jar and she was not budging until she got her cookie. The more my friend ignored her dog, the louder the little devil dog became.

After a couple minutes of Sophia’s temper tantrum, my friend laughed and said “Isn’t she so cute and smart that she can tell me she wants a cookie” and then gave her the cookie.

I know we all wish our dogs could talk sometimes but be careful what you wish for.

I can only imagine what my dog would say, “I love you, too; come on scratch my butt; let me out; let me in; what, that kibble again; once more around the block, James, throw the ball;, you little wimp; oops, sorry I have gas.”

Most people think it is amazing that their dog knows exactly where the cookie is, plus can communicate that feeling. Then there are some folks like me who think it’s pretty rude to be barked at.

Hey, I’m not perfect; I have been known to occasionally bribe my dogs with the words “cookies” to get their attention. I regularly treat my dog with a cookie - if she asks nicely.

I think it is so cute that my dog can sit nicely in front of the cookie jar, glance at me, then back to the cookie jar as if to say “please, mom.”

I will ask her “would you like a cookie?” So when she sits and is quiet as if to say please, I then ask her to perform a simple known behavior like speak or sit pretty. I will then reinforce her by giving her the cookie. If I think it will ruin her dinner I simply say “not now, sweetie.” What I don’t like is for her to be demanding. Asking and telling are two different things. I am a firm believer that dogs should do things to get things. What you reinforce is what you get.

Submitted by Marion C. O’Neil CPDT-KA, CTDI owner and lead trainer of Molasses Creek Dog Training, LLC, Quakertown, PA

“Mothers hold their children’s hands for a short while, but their hearts forever..” - Unknown

Sometimes I have trouble thinking of good topics but this month I have many to choose . I have decided to tell you people if your animal is missing check with your local shelter. If you find an animal take it to the local shelter. This is like the Lost and Found Dept. for animals. That way an owner knows where to find their animal. Also make sure your area postman and trash collectors have a picture of your missing dog and ask them to keep a look out for them. The local shelter area for Quakertown area is 267-347-4674 Bucks County SPCA. Even if you can’t stop and pick up the animal you can

call and tell them where you saw it. I know my human would be so happy if someone took time to help ME get home if I was lost. You can also go to their web site www.ubspca.org and look under lost and found to see the animals available in Quakertown and Lahaska. You can even post on there if you lost or found animal. Don’t forget to check out the calendar section of the paper for the times and dates of Valley Choral Society’s FREE concerts. There will be concerts with an orchestra for you to enjoy May 6th and 7th. Hope to see you all at the Arts Alive. I will be in the Author booth so stop and say Hi. Love M.J.

14

• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2017

Flashing Lights on Power Lines No Need for Concern

If you’ve been out at night recently and have seen small flashing lights along the electric lines, you might have wondered what they were.

You might even have been concerned.

Well, there’s good news: What you saw weren’t sparks, and there’s no need for alarm.

What you really saw were devices on the electricity network that help provide strong service – but sometimes cause some public confusion.

As part of efforts to increase reliability and more quickly restore outages, we’ve placed fault indicators on many power lines. These devices are small enough to be held in the hand, and can be moved from place to place on the network.

If these devices sense problems on the line, their lights will start blinking. They provide information about the location of the problem and serve as a guide for repair crews.

Some customers mistake the flashing indicator for sparking wires or a wire fire and call their local 911 center. We’re working to share information on fault indicators with the public, so customers recognize the devices and are less likely to call first responders when they see one. (Of course, you should still call in case of a real emergency.)

We’re also sharing info with fire and police departments so they can recognize these devices if they receive a call.

If you have questions about fault indicators – or you want to report a real emergency, such as a downed wire – don’t hesitate to call 1-800-DIAL-PPL (342-5775).

Fault indicators are just one example of new technology helping to keep the lights on.

We’ll also be installing hundreds of additional smart grid devices on the electricity network this year, including some in your area.

Smart grid technology can automatically reroute power around the scene of an outage, restoring many customers to service within minutes. Smart grid devices are already on duty across our 29-county service area, and the ones we’re adding this year will improve outage response still further.

You might also see one of our new bucket trucks with electric-powered lifts. These trucks are environmentally friendly because our crews no longer have to keep the engine running to power the lift. (They’re also a lot quieter as a result. While you might see one of these trucks on duty, you’re a lot less likely to hear it.)

These are all examples of technology Thomas Edison never dreamed of – and who knows, maybe if he saw a fault indicator, he’d wonder what it was too. But there’s no need for concern about these small flashing lights in the night.

Carol is the Regional Affairs Director for PPL Electric Utilities in Allentown, PA. Reach her at CObando-Derstine@pplweb.com

Quakertown Cares Fundraising Passes $50,000

BY JANE THOMPSON-SMITH Recent donations have lifted the 2016-2017 “Quakertown Cares” campaign to an extraordinary level, as $50,026 has been raised!

The campaign, which was begun in 1995

by The Free Press, Quakertown’s original newspaper, raises funds to help Quakertown families, seniors and veterans purchase much needed necessities. Although it is a holiday campaign that technically runs from November to January, it has evolved, and the giving and helping of those in need now continues all year round.

Every few days “Quakertown Cares” receives referrals for assistance from Quakertown Community School District guidance counselors, the school district social worker, St. Luke’s Quakertown Hospital social work, the volunteer group Quakertown Community Outreach, the local food pantry, veterans contacts and others.

The month of May is an exciting time for the campaign, which helps seventh graders, who would not otherwise be able to afford it, to attend the school district’s unforgettable learning event known as Outdoor School.

Helping “Quakertown Cares” to cross the $50,000 threshold, was money raised by the campaign’s craft show and breakfast held this spring. Run by “Quakertown Cares” committee member Lisa Green, it raised $1,113. In

addition, recent giving included $407 from the mission committee of the Quakertown United Methodist Church, and $100 from the Kiwanis Club of Upper Bucks.

So, why is it so important that “Quakertown Cares” raised $50,000? What is “Quakertown Cares” all about? It can be summed up in a letter from an elderly man living on social security, his wife stricken with cancer and on hospice care. The couple received help from “Quakertown Cares” after Quakertown United Methodist Church took a collection, and donated the funds raised to the campaign. “Cares” found the couple, and gave them the money raised by the church, and more.

The husband sent a letter to “Quakertown Cares,” describing what they were going through, and thanking “Cares” and the church for the unexpected gift at such a difficult time.

“It warms our hearts to know that we live in a town like Quakertown,” he said.

And that is what “Quakertown Cares” is all about. It’s community caring for community on a personal level. It’s reaching out and touching the hearts of those in need.

If you have given to “Quakertown Cares,” thank you. If you haven’t, please consider it.

You will find yourself a part of something very, very special.

Visit Quakertown Cares online at www. facebook.com/QuakertownCares/.

2017 Toyota Camry Hybrid As the best selling compact sedan in America, Toyota’s Camry in hybrid form takes this favorite to the next level.

For 2017, the Camry Hybrid added such upgrades as Entune Audio Plus entertainment system, wireless smartphone charger on selected trim levels, and automatic braking.

Camry Hybrid is offered in base LE, sporty SE and top-line XLE trim levels. We tested the SE that offers spirited driving characteristics after Toyota engineers tightened up the suspension and steering.

As for the handy wireless charging pad, it’s standard on the XLE and optional ($75) on the SE. It’s a most wanted feature that eliminates having to carry a charging cord along. The charging pad resides inside the vertical stack bin, next to USB and 12V outlets.

Powered by a 2.5-liter, inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine, and when combined with the electric motor, generates 200 net horsepower.

Coupled to a CVT automatic transmission, the combination provides EPA mileage estimates of 40 city, 37-highway mpg, or 38 combined.

While this is appreciable, Honda’s Accord Hybrid is rated slightly better at 49/47 estimated mpg, but does so with a smaller 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder and CVT transmission.

Camry Hybrid accelerates quicker than its pure gasoline 2.5L powertrain. It has been independently tested at a relatively quick 7.7 seconds for 0-60 mph. There’s also EV and ECO modes to individualize economy. EV mode uses the electric motor exclusively for up to 1.6 miles and below 25 mph. This selection is good for heavy, stop and go traffic jams, whereas ECO mode optimizes accelerator response and A/C for better fuel economy.

The gauge cluster has two indicators that show your driving economy, and when electric or gas power is being used. These enable the driver to maximize efficiency by driving in the “green” zone.

A 7-inch touchscreen serves the audio, rearview camera and infotainment systems including several apps plus Siri Eyes, Doppler weather, Predictive Traffic and satellite radio.

Camry SE’s cloth, with vinyl-edged front seats, are comfy and nicely supportive. They are, however, not heated as is the steering

wheel. (Yes, some cars have heated cloth seats) The back seat is a trite firm but spacious with ample head and legroom.

Back in the 13.1-cubic foot trunk, it’s smaller by 2.3 cubes compared to the non-hybrid Camry. But it’s because of the battery pack stowed under the trunk floor. There is a pass through for long items and you may slip a hoofer-type golf bag through it. Or, stack the long clubs atop the bag width-wise in the trunk.

Driving wise, Camry Hybrid is quiet even when the gasoline engine is running. And the transition from gas to electric is seamless and smooth. Shod with 17-inch Bridgestone tires, the ride is smooth and handling sporty with the SE’s sport-tuned suspension. While we’re not crazy about CVT transmissions, Camry’s, like others, its computer shifts points go virtually unnoticed.

For a hybrid, Camry is priced attractively.

Starting at a base of $27,995, the SE came with a long list of standard features and safety

functions. The $1,300 Entune system included a host of niceties with Bluetooth and for another $915 you get a moonroof. Add to that the wireless charger, mat set ($224) and Glass Breakage sensor ($359), which incorporates a sensitive microphone that detects the sound of an object striking on glass or breakage. At that point an alarm activates and/or if a door is forced open. With a delivery of $865, the Camry Hybrid priced out at $31,733. That price comes under Honda’s comparable Accord Hybrid at $36,790.

For even more incentive to buy one, Camry Hybrid carries a full 5-star government overall safety rating, four for driver frontal crash, five for passenger; five each for side crash; and four for rollover. All impressive numbers for America’s best-selling 5-passenger compact sedan.

And the only way it could get better is if it were offered with AWD. Nick Hromiak is an automotive freelance

enthusiast

writer.

We

and look

forward to bringing you his new

He

column can

be

each

month.

reached

nhromiak@verizon.net.

at

May 2017 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

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

Think Local.

Buy Local.

Be Local.

Beeline Black sheep Bullseye Cash cow Cat burglar Catnap Catty-corner

Chicken out Copycat Cry wolf Dark horse Dog days Eager beaver

Fraidy-cat Hogwild Holy cow Horse around Horsesense Lion's share

Monkey around Monkey business Piggyback Rat race Roadhog Scaredy-cat Topdog

15

16

• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2017

Key Items to Check Before You Buy a Home

Buying a new house is an exciting process that marks a new chapter in life. When you’re serious about purchasing a home, there are a few important parts of the property to check before you move in.

The Neighborhood You should feel comfortable with the quality of the neighborhood, which will influence the value of your home. Look at the condition of the other homes and check to see if people are loitering at different times of the day. The house should also be in proximity to your job, or nearby schools if you have children. Some individuals who don’t have a family may want to purchase a home in a good school district due to the impact that it’ll have on the value of the property.

Storage Space The storage space that is available in the home influences how much clutter will be left out in the open. Look for plenty of storage space that is available in the bedroom closets or in the kitchen to ensure that you can comfortably fit everything that you own without feeling cramped.

Plumbing System Run the faucets to inspect the water pressure and ask the owners if the pipes are insulated.

Hire professionals to check if the radiators are working and if the hot water tank needs to be replaced soon.

The Roof The roof is one of the more costly features of the home and protects the interior setting from damage due to environmental elements.

Hire a professional roofer to determine the lifespan of the roofing material and if it needs any repairs. The tiles or shingles should be secure on the roof deck, and there shouldn’t be any leaks present.

Sufficient Drainage Many buyers make the mistake of overlooking the drainage on the property, but it can cause issues if not in good shape. Insufficient drainage can lead to severe structural problems in the home.

Although it can be easy to fall in love with a house, there are several areas to check before making an offer to ensure that you won’t run into problems down the road. By taking the time to inspect each part of the property, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re making a good investment.. .Sue Deily has been a Realtor® for 31 years, resides in the Upper Bucks Area and enjoys serving her clients in Bucks, Lehigh and Montgomery Counties. Sue has been featured in Bucks County Real Estate Trendsetters. Sue is happy to answer your real estate questions and can be reached at suesellshouses@gmail.com and at

215-872-9865.

Bucks Author Publishes Book on his Work with Youth with Special Needs

Over the last fifteen years, New Hope resident Mike Kelly has worked with hundreds of young adults with a wide range of special needs living on both sides of the Delaware River.

During that time he has served as an employment specialist, job coach, event organizer and promoter, fundraiser, grant writer, teacher, mentor, business owner, and award-winning transition educator.

His recently-published book “SPECIAL STORIES: Short Stories On Youth With SPECIAL NEEDS And My Adventures Working In The Disabilities Field” (Vendue Books) is a heartfelt account of what he describes as his “life’s work.” These thought-provoking and heartwarming stories showcase the many abilities kids with disabilities have—regardless of their challenges—while entertaining, educating, and dispelling societal stereotypes. Aside from stories on many of the hundreds of students Kelly’s worked with over the years, the book also features accounts on famous professional athletes headlining fundraisers, ordinary folk generosity, celebrity greed, and social musings—all part of Kelly’s experiences in his field.

“I’ve come across some incredible young people with special needs who have achieved measurable success in their lives, yet whose efforts go largely unnoticed. I wrote this book because I felt it was time for their untold stories to finally be told to help inspire others to think outside the box and reach for the stars,” Kelly said.

When asked what types of disabilities his book features, Kelly said: “ADD/ADHD, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down syndrome, Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Spina Bifida,

Visual Impairment, and Williams syndrome, to name just a few.”

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that roughly 1 in 7 American children have a developmental disability—over 3 million kids nationwide. Because of that number, one would think that there would be many books prominently featuring youth with disabilities. But according to Kelly, that’s not the case.

“While there are books written by parents or teachers on how to raise or teach a child with autism—or kids’ books featuring a single character with a disability— there are no books featuring many different kids with various types of special needs, highlighting their successes and challenges— all in one book. Until now,” said Kelly. “Finally there’s a book about youth with disabilities for individuals with disabilities themselves, parents of children with disabilities, special educators, workers in the disabilities field... and everyone else.

Kelly hopes SPECIAL STORIES... gains support from the disability community and parents of children with special needs and becomes this generation’s Chicken Soup For The Soul. If not, he’ll remain satisfied.

“I feel like I’m already doing my life’s work empowering young people, many of whom are life’s underdogs. Any book sales would be considered icing on top of that cake.”

SPECIAL STORIES... has already gained some positive reviews from a variety of local and regional sources, as well as from one NBA Hall of Fame legend.

The book is available in hardcover, paperback, and in e-book through online booksellers Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple iBooks and KOBO. For information on how to purchase your copy of SPECIAL STORIES..., visit www.specialstoriesbook.com.

May 2017 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

Illustrating with the Papps Robert and Lisa Papp are a husband-and-wife artistic duo! They work as professional book illustrators, but also tend to work on anything that involves painting. Lisa Papp has illustrated several picture books, and written a few as well. “Madeline Finn and the Library Dog”–a book she wrote and illustrated–has been nominated for several awards, including being a 2017 finalist for the Children’s Choice Book Award. Robert Papp always liked drawing, and his love of art flows through into his work. He creates art “for almost everything. And for anyone that needs his services.” He has drawn for cookbooks, advertisements, board games, and his art will even be featured on postage stamps in 2018.

I had the wonderful opportunity to interview these Bucks County artists.

When did the two of you realize that you both wanted to be professional illustrators?

Lisa: Even though Rob and I attended the same art school, we had different paths into illustration. As Rob will tell you, he was enamored with illustration in school. I was in love with fine art, and had no real interest in illustration. If you had told me then that I would be an illustrator, I would have thought you crazy. I adored fine art. I loved painting what I wanted, the way I wanted. And though I had deadlines…art shows to create work for, there was a great sense of freedom. Though Rob was focused on illustration, he also enjoyed fine art. We would paint all week preparing for shows on the weekend. When Saturday morning came, we would pack his Mercury Capri with our homemade art stands and all the framed art we had created that week and spend the afternoon at a beautiful park selling our work. Usually we did pretty well. This was the early 90’s, Rob and I were fresh out of school and it was a good time for fine art. People appreciated original paintings and were willing to buy them. It was great and I assumed that’s what I would be doing forever. But everything changes, and you have to change with it. When fine art took a hit, we had to shift.

So my path to illustration was a slow and winding one. When I got my first picture book, “Rudolph Shines Again”, I found a whole new joy in illustration. And today, writing my own stories, which I then get to illustrate, is everything I could dream of.

Rob: I always drew. Ever since I was little.

I drew Superman and Batman. Cartoon characters, Snoopy, and always drew pictures to accompany my book reports in school. So it was no surprise that I wanted to be an “artist”, even though I didn’t know exactly what that meant.

In art school, that changed when I discovered exactly what an “illustrator” was.

I learned that someone actually hires you and pays you for your art. No longer did I have to create a piece of art first and then HOPE someone will buy it.

The two of you paint in very different styles.

Do you think that being involved in each other’s work has helped you grow as an artist?

Lisa: Yes, definitely. Just when I think I’ve created something impressive, I will see a piece that Rob is working on and think, “oh, I guess I’ve got to try a little harder.” It’s wonderful that we can give each other a fresh eye, and help when one of us is struggling with a piece.

I feel very lucky indeed.

Rob: In general, being around art is always inspiring, but having someone that inspires me IN THE SAME HOUSE is really neat.

It takes a lot of pressure off knowing that when I have a question, the answer can be as close as the next room over.

So many times when you are completely involved in a piece, you can be blinded as to what it needs. Lisa always has a great eye for what needs to be done when I can’t see it. I don’t think my art would be as good without Lisa’s help.

Other than your own or each other - who’s art work do you admire and why?

Lisa: I am a big fan of Lisbeth Zwerger, an Austrian illustrator. She has a fantastic imagination and the skills to back it up! Her watercolors are pure magic. Never overworked, and I love her color palettes as well.

She’s just one of those people you describe as, “born to be an artist.” I love her whimsy, and I admire her incredible skill. It’s so inspiring to page through her work, I’m always left in awe.

Rob: When I stated out being an illustrator for paperback books, I learned from, and was inspired by the golden age of paperback illustrators. Not many people would know their names, but they would have been exposed to their amazing art. James Bama and Robert McGinnis produced 1000’s of covers in the 1970’s and eventually became equally amazing fine artists. Peter Caras was my illustration instructor and not only an incredible artist, but as a teacher, I can credit him directly for teaching me how to be an illustrator.

Of course living here in Pennsylvania, I cannot neglect the brilliance of N.C. and Andrew Wyeth.

Ms. Papp, when did you decide to write a book, in addition to illustrating?

Lisa: I think I like writing more than I do illustrating. At least, it comes a bit easier to me. I have always written, though I never read books growing up. Writing seems second nature to me. As I began to illustrate other people’s stories, I realized I had my own stories I wanted to tell. Picture books seemed like a good place to start.

To learn more go to Lisapapp.com and Robertpapp.com. For more on books and reading visit my site: ThisKidReviewsBooks.com.

Happy Hunting!

Hundreds of Kids Participate in Area Egg Hunts

(left) Emily Mullin is all business as she fills her bucket at Quakertown Farmers Market’s annual Egg Hunt. (right) Nathan Dennis and Dean Beck take a break from egg hunting duties to meet McGruff the crime dog at Quakertown Borough’s annual Egg Hunt in Memorial Park. photos by ken sutliff

17

EVERY CHILD IS SPECIAL

CHILDREN’S DEVELOPMENTAL PROGRAM

Early Intervention Services - Pre-School - Child Care Accepting Fall Registrations for Children Ages 6 Weeks – 5 Years Morning and Afternoon Classes Available Serving infants, toddlers and pre-school children from Upper Bucks and surrounding communities.

• Pre-K Counts Classroom • Low Student to Teacher Ratio • Fenced in Playground

• Creative Curriculum • Trained Staff • Secure, State-of-the-Art Facility

995 Doylestown Pike, Quakertown | 215.536.7800 CDP_Office@cdpchildren.org | www.cdpchildren.org Find us on Facebook at Children’s Developmental Program

“The art of mothering is to teach the art of living to children.” - Elaine Heffner

A Tribute to Mothers

It is May and flowers are in full bloom, trees are clothed in fresh green leaves once again, and the days are becoming longer. May is a special time of the year for me as I reflect on my mother’s birthday on May 1st. My mother passed away forty-three years ago, but she is still very much a part of my life. There is a bond between a mother and her child that is not broken, even in death. After the grieving process, we are able to return to the “new” normal in life, but memories will remain a lifetime.

As Mother’s Day approaches, I want to pay tribute to that very special group of women called mothers. Whether our mothers are with us, or whether they have passed on, they will always hold a cherished place in our hearts. If your mother is still in your life, keep her close to your heart, show her how much you love her, and cherish every moment that you get to spend with her. The days after May 14th are the days that really count in her life. A visit, a telephone call, a card, an email, a text, are all forms of communication that she will cherish, and that will show her that she is still a special woman in your life. We only have one mother.

No one can take her place when she is gone.

Whether near or far, show your mother love every day.

If you have been given the honored title of Mother, stop and focus on who YOU are as a Mother, the journey you have taken, or are taking presently, and the blessings you have received. Newborn babies know and recognize their mothers. One of the greatest pleasures a mother experiences is when her baby lovingly stares at her as they smile and kick their chubby legs and tiny feet. It is an unspoken, “I love you so much, Mommy.”

Motherhood is a responsibility that we strive to accomplish to the best of our ability. We want to be the best mothers possible; sometimes, we even want to be the perfect mother.

Mothers are strong, persevering, loving, nurturing, and gentle women that God created, with full knowledge of the special role they would play in the lives of the children to whom

He entrusted them. As much as we may try, our role was never meant to be a perfect mother. Likewise, our role was never intended to be an enabler, a best friend, nor an irresponsible Mother. Our role is not to give our children certificates of entitlement, nor to teach them that they are in any way superior to the next person. Our specific role as a Mother is to give unconditional love, encouragement, support, and discipline. Our role is to train our children while they are young, and to guide them by setting examples as we live our lives in their presence. Sometimes, we grow tired and weary. Sometimes we feel that no one appreciates who we are or what we do. Occasionally, we are doing it all alone, even though the father is present. From time to time we need a break, but we just don’t get one. Motherhood can be complex, but it is also rewarding.

It is rewarding when your children become adults and thank you for the discipline that they received as a child, and tell you that they want to incorporate your parenting skills into raising their children. Mother’s Day is a time for you to reflect on your journey through motherhood, to give yourself recognition for a task well done, and to thank God for guidance and strength.

If you are a first-time, younger mothers who may be feeling inadequate, frustrated, tired, and alone, that is an OK Mommy feeling because as your babies grow through each stage, you become more confident in your role of motherhood. Mother’s Day is a time for you to reflect on how far you have come, and to realize that your God-given motherly instincts, along with your day by day experience is molding you into a woman who will be proud to say, “I am a Mother.”

Sunday has been designated as Mother’s Day – YOUR Day! No matter what stage of motherhood you are in, celebrate who you are at this time in your life, and thank God for giving you such an important role to fulfill.

Happy Mother’s Day! “Her children rise up and call her blessed.” ou can contact Jacque at: jacque@ubfp.org

18

• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2017

The Red Queen Hypothesis

Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.

Settling Estates Filled with Antiques

Grandma passed away leaving behind a house filled with art, antiques and collectibles. You and your family members have varied feelings about her heirlooms.

Some of your relatives want to divvy up everything.

Others want to just bring in a reseller. Other family members are ready to pile it all into a dumpster. And, some relatives are ready to give away every unwanted object. And, of course there are also those folks who just can’t deal with grandma’s objects as tears flow at the sight of grandma’s quilts or wash bowl set.

What should you do?

Arrange a family caucus at a location other than Grandma’s empty home. Give everyone a turn to express their feelings about what should happen with the objects left behind. Everyone needs to keep an open mind — and not necessarily an open mouth — about how to deal with Grandma’s personal property.

The person in your family who keeps saying that everything is worthless old junk and that the best thing to do is to trash everything is the person throwing away your money, throwing away your inheritance, and probably should not have the last word. Let them have their say and while some items will not be worth a king’s ransom, the trash option is usually the one that people regret in the long run. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.

Remind yourself to ask that person to consider how he would feel once a valuable item worth

thousands of dollars is left sitting in the dumpster outside your late grandma’s house. How would he feel when a nosy neighbor, local trash man or antique reseller stops by and helps himself to that valuable piece?

Often, a dumpster is the original location of many items that you will later find for sale at sky high prices at some of the most prestigious auction houses and trendy antique dealerships.

Recently, an antique chair found on a neighbor’s trash pile was sold by the guy next door for $198,000. And, a jogger in New York City helped herself to an abstract painting on a curbside garbage heap that she later sold for $1.2 million dollars.

So, without an unbiased appraisal and review of the current market for your late grandmother’s stuff, this dumpster-happy family member is just helping your entire family lose lots of money. Get an unbiased appraisal first—one where the appraiser does not want to buy anything from you.

The best solution is open communication with all of your family members and an action plan for the appraisal of Grandma’s antiques.

Celebrity appraiser, Dr. Lori Verderame is an internationally syndicated columnist, author, and award-winning TV personality who stars on History channel’s The Curse of Oak Island and Discovery’s Auction Kings. With a Ph.D. from Penn State Univ., Dr. Lori presents antique appraisal events to worldwide audiences. Visit www.DrLoriV.com/events or 888-431-1010.

Alice ran as fast as she could, but could not catch up to the Queen. The faster she ran, the further away the Queen seemed to get.

Recognizing the futility, Alice gave up and stopped.

When she did, suddenly, curiously, she and the Queen were at the same place again. Alice was perplexed. The Red Queen explained, “Now here, you see, it takes all the running you can do to stay at the same place.” And, so it is in the persistent, complicated struggle of ever changing Life on this planet.

Since the beginning of Life, organisms on Earth have adapted to their environment by experiencing physical modifications and behavioral changes that better enable them to utilize resources. Sexual reproduction, which is general in higher life forms, allows the blending of genetic material that leads to altered characteristics in offspring. If new traits appear that inhibit or deter exploitation of the environment, they disappear as the organism fails to compete efficiently and becomes extinct. Traits that ease the exploitation survive, thrive and spread among future generations.

The proliferation of organisms that more efficiently utilize their resources ultimately affects the resource and any other organism that co-exists with it. For example: if a caterpillar develops a trait that enables it to better digest the leaves of a specific, common tree, the caterpillar population soon explodes because there is an abundance of food. However, the resource is adversely affected and there soon are less of those trees. The caterpillar population consequently declines because of its own exploitive efficiency.

But, the tree is a participant in the same evolutionary ‘game.’ Though the majority of them die off, trees that have a slight chemical variation, or some other trait that makes them distasteful to the caterpillars, survive. That trait is passed on to offspring who proliferate because the caterpillars leave them alone and there is less competition for resources.

However, the cycle continues. The caterpillars will adapt to consuming the ‘distasteful’ variation. The ecosystem, then, remains in balance through the constant adaptation and change of one species in response to constant adaptation and change of another.

The process occurs throughout the system of Life on Earth. Foxes chase rabbits. Only the fastest rabbits survive to breed. All rabbits become faster as the trait is passed on. Because they are faster than foxes, the rabbit population increases until their resources are over consumed. Then there become fewer rabbits.

At the same time, because they can catch rabbits, only the fastest foxes survive to breed. All foxes then become faster. And so on, and so on, as the ecological balance is maintained. “It takes all the running you can do to stay at the same place,” said the Red Queen.

Though balance is maintained through this constant ‘running,’ it does not guarantee survival of the species that co-evolve this way.

This “arms race,” as scientists call it, between the species depletes resources and, consequently, alters the general environment. It contributes to a net decrease in the fitness of species to survive. Often, due to increasingly efficient exploitation, the bio-system becomes

inhospitable for one or both of the co-evolving species and both become extinct. 99% of all species that have existed on the planet have, ultimately, vanished. 99% of all species existing today must expect to suffer the same fate.

For example: trees in a forest compete for sunlight to optimize the photosynthetic process by which they live. A tree that, through genetic blending via the sexual reproductive process, develops a trait that enables it to grow taller than its neighbors will have a better chance of survival. This, in turn, will force the neighboring trees to adapt and grow taller themselves, or risk extinction. The net effect is that all the trees grow taller but continue to get the same amount of sunlight. Because of the increased biomass of the forest, a much greater amount of resources are consumed to maintain the balance. The general condition of the environment deteriorates, and, ultimately, becomes inhospitable for trees.

Over the long term (scientists believe there has been life on Earth for about 3.6 billion years), the processes of evolution have enabled life to persist in the face of externally produced environmental changes, such as solar energy output variations and volcanism. In the short term, and half a dozen million years must be comprehended as that, organisms, through their survival adaptations, modify their environment and create conditions that lead to their own extinction. There is balance but there are dramatic, constant swings across a wide range of ‘optimum.’ Generally, Life persists, but individual examples of it are almost always doomed to extinction.

Man may be special. Man’s adaptation has been the development of intelligence, which led to tool making. Tool making has allowed Man to exploit resources more effectively than any species before. It has, to an extent, enabled him to exist outside of the standard framework of ecological processes by creating his own environment. He has actually been able to escape his ecosystem and touch the stars. We are, however, talking about the extreme short term. The laws of sociology and psychology are new. The laws of biology and ecology are ancient.

Ecological processes continue. We can expect that over the short term, say five million years, Man will proliferate. Co-evolving, competing species will first diminish, but then adapt and proliferate themselves. Species that take advantage of the abundance of the resource, which Man is, will ultimately develop (perhaps microorganisms). The natural process of increased consumption and modification of resources will continue until the environment itself is altered. The constant running in the endless arms race of biological survival will continue.

Over the long term, say ¾ of a billion years, species will come and species will go, according to the natural process. As has been the case throughout the term of Life on Earth, external influences will occasionally introduce changes to which Life must quickly adapt. What the future holds cannot be foretold. What the past shows must be assumed to be the rule. There will be ups and downs, but Life will persist, in an oscillating balance. It must be understood, though, that “it takes all the running you can do to just stay in the same place.”

More articles by Jack H. Schick can be found at Searchwarp.com or Soulofwit.com

Harley’s Haven

Meet Buddy!

Buddy is so confused that no one has scooped him up yet! He is a handsome, 1-3 year old black pitty/mix with a wonderful personality! He is sweet and outgoing - playful and loves people. He does well with other dogs, and loves everyone he meets! e is interested in cats, so would do best in a home without cats. He is neutered and up to date on vaccines, contact us today for more info!

Meet Tucker!

Hound dog alert! This handsome hound is waiting for you! He was surrendered to the shelter in West Virginia, and hasn’t looked back! He is a typical hound dog - playful, goofy, and sweet! He does great with other dogs, but as a typical hunting dog - he would do best in a home without cats. He is house trained, crate trained, and is neutered and up to date on vaccines. He is ready to go - check him out today!

If you are looking for a furever friend, give Harley’s Haven a call today at (267) 354-5204.

May 2017 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

19

American Legion Post 242 February 2017 Update

BY DICK HELM “In Flanders Field where Poppies grow”-This year we honor the heroes of WWI on the 100th Anniversary of the entrance of the USA in “The War to End All Wars!” As a youngster back in the 1950’s I asked my father why the statue at the train station had a different uniform and helmet than the photos I was usually seeing of WWII and Korean War soldiers? Today that statue stands before us, moved to Memorial Park where the large marble slabs with the name of the men “Who gave their all” could be adequately added for every conflict since then, along with the wide walkway and natural trees and shrubs.

Yes, my dad who was a history buff too, had long before informed me that the statue was that of a World War I soldier and reviewed with me the horrors of that trench warfare and the use of gas warfare. Wallace Willard Keller from Quakertown was one of those who gave their all. His remains rest in a beautiful cemetery “Over There” and his name is honored today in the name of our Legion Post. The American Legion was organized because of this war. I am proud to say that our organization has given back to Quakertown and the area very well. We still sponsor a bouquet of flowers each year that are placed on Wallace Willard Keller’s grave.

Memorial Day 2017 is fast approaching.

You too can honor these Servicemen and women by attending our local Memorial Day Parade and Service. Hope to see you there on Memorial Day morning. We have the service regardless of the weather conditions.

Once again I wish to give the details about the days events. Our parade forms at Park Avenue near 9th Street and we ask all participants invited to ride in the parade to be at this area prior to 8:30 in the AM. The parade starts promptly at 9:00 AM. The parade will march out 9th Street to Broad Street then turn RIGHT onto Broad Street and go east to 4TH STREET. It will turn left onto 4TH ST. and go north to MILL ST. At MILL ST, it will turn left and commence to the World War 1 Monument. After the groups form in their prospective areas we will strive to start the Memorial Day Service close to or at 10:00 AM. Our tentative guest speaker this year is

retiring District Justice Robert Roth. Judge Roth is known by all as a lifelong resident of the area and for his outstanding service as our District Judge for many years. Again we have awards for Quakertown students and special speeches by our youth along with selected school band music. We always remember those of the area who gave their all in the conflicts since WWI..

Make sure you mark this on your Holiday calendar. After all it is not First Cookout Day or Start the Summer Vacation Period Day it is MEMORIAL DAY. Come out and honor those who truly guaranteed that you have the freedoms you have. Except for those who served and now are politicians in Washington; it is not the Washington politicians who gave you the freedom, it is the GIs who faced peril who did!

It is now our 4th year of the new parade route and we always feel bad for those who line the old route and miss the parade—please check the above route before coming—we don’t want you to miss the parade. Also if you watch the parade on Broad Street around 7th Street, remember you can walk across the paved path by the Catholic School then directly up to Mill Street to the WWI Monument for the service as the parade arrives.

We are lucky to have dedicated former soldiers, sailors, and Air personnel and their spouses and children, who care enough to put long hours in to handle the parade and service so we can honor the fallen, those who served and were honored by rifle salute and the sound of Taps, and those who served and still are active Americans. We especially appreciate Navy Chief Tony Michaels who leads us in this complex project.

In past years we have had special seating for War Veterans and Gold Start families near our main stage. Unfortunately we have lost a few of the WWII veterans and other war veterans since we started this. This section of seating is so important a function of this Memorial Day service. If you know of anyone who has served in a conflict or is a member of a family who has lost a loved one, please let me know by May 20th so we can have seating for them and can recognize them at the service.

Richard Helm @ 215-536-3969.