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• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2022
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks? April 29 & 30
Used Book Sale at Upper Perkiomen Valley, 350 Main St, Red Hill. “Two Day Bag Sale!” (Fri 10am-5pm) (Sat 10am-2pm) Masks recommended but not required. FMI: 215-679-2020 Indoor Flea Mkt, 9am-3pm both days. Benefits St. Luke’s UCC, Rte 313, Dublin
April 30
Springfield Twp Historical Society Open House, 9:30am-12noon at the Church School, 2165 Rte 212 (GPS Coopersburg) across from Trinity Lutheran. View artifacts, photos, etc. Members avail. for questions. Free, all invited. FMI: 484-308-1510. “Olde Towne Walking Tour” 1pm at Perkasie Historical Society Museum, 513 W Walnut St, Perkasie. Meet 12:45pm, $5 donation per person. FMI: perkasiehistory.org 14th Annual Spring Auction, 9am at Tree/Shrub Nursery, 2500 Township Rd, Quakertown. FMI: 484-357-4027. Flea Mkt 9am-2pm (r/d May 7) at Dublin Fire Co, 194 N Main St. Breakfast/lunch available outdoors. FMI: 215-249-3089 ‘National Prescription Drug Take Back Day’ 10am-2pm. Drive Up & Drop In. Visit bcdac. org for complete details & a location near you.
May 1
“Country Jades” FREE Concert, 10am-2pm in Event Rm 201 at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. Jennifer Lynn Craft Show 11am-4pm. Local crafts & handmade items at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. north lot across from Garden Ctr. FMI: 215-536-4115
May 2
Free Monday meals, 5:15pm-6:30pm at Morning Star Fellowship, 429 S. 9th St, Quakertown. EVERY Monday !
May 2, 9, 16
Family Education Program on Addiction first three Mon. of month 7pm at Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. FMI: 215-527-3077. Register: 800-221-6333
May 3
Fundraiser 4pm-8pm at McDonald’s, 2 N West End Blvd, Quakertown. 20% of proceeds donated to Quakertown Community Education Foundation. www.qcef.org “Looking Back on Perkasie: Vintage Images Part II” from collection of Mark Frederick. Regular dinner meetings at 6:30pm, St. Stephen’s UCC, 110 N 6th St, Perkasie. $12 at door. Reserve seat Thurs before meeting. FMI: Pat 215-257-9624, perkasiehistory.org
May 6
Mother’s Day Flower Sale 5pm-6pm by Haycock Fire Co, 850 Old Bethlehem Rd, Quakertown. Cash & checks accepted, no change given. Quakertown Rotary Designer Bag Bingo, (opens 6pm, games 7pm) at West End Fire Co, 1319 Park Ave. Tkts: $30/adv, $35/door. BYOB/food/snacks. FMI/Tkts: Quakertown. rc@gmail.com or 267-375-9088.
May 7
20th Penn State Master Gardener Plant Sale, 9am-1pm at Middletown Grange Fairgrounds, 576 Penns Park Rd, Newtown. (rain/shine) Plants of every type, baskets for Mother’s Day, etc. 50+ Gardeners available to help you. Need special accommodations/questions? Call 267-483-2020.
“Mums & Mutts!” Mother’s Day at the Farm, 11am-3pm at Logan’s Heroes Animal Rescue, 9411 Kings Hwy, East Greenville. FMI: LHARinc.org/events or 484-719-7101 FREE Concert “Acoustic Passages” 11am1pm on the Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. Spring Craft Fair, 75+ vendors w/handmade items. 10am-4pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. k4kandfurmamaevents@ yahool.com to register. Yard Sale 9am-1pm (rain/shine). 12:30pm Bag Sale. Refreshments for sale. First UCC, 501 Northampton St, Hellertown. Vendor/Craft Fair, 9am-2pm at Springtown Fire Co, 3010 Rte 212, Springtown.
May 8
Mother’s Day
‘Mommy & Me Alice Tea Party’ 1pm-3pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. Enjoy tea/goodies, play games & visit w/ Wonderland characters. Tickets: $12/person. Check Facebook for full details.
May 13
Designer Bag Bingo (open 6pm, games 7pm) Haycock Twp Community Ctr, 1014 Old Bethlehem Rd, Quakertown. Contact kapacella@verizon.net for tickets. Cruise Night 5pm-8pm at Dublin Fire Co, 194 N Main St. Good food, good music, great cars. Hosted by fire company & the Doylestown Road Angels. Email: altursi@gmail.com
May 14
Bike Rodeo for kids 6-12 years old. Quakertown Pool Parking Lot, 601 W Mill St, Quakertown at 9am by Qtown & Richland Twp Police Depts. Games, prizes & more. FMI: Quakertown.org/Bike Rodeo. Christ’s Community Café, 9am-11am at First UCC, 4th & Park Ave, Quakertown. Free ‘to-go’ lunches while supply lasts. Quakertown HS Boys Lacrosse “Trivia Night” 6:30pm-10:30pm at Benner Hall, 1260 Cherry St, Richlandtown. Prizes, raffles, gift cards, more. BYOB/snacks. Tkts: $25/ea. Contact Stephanie 215-219-3418 or Wendy 267-968-1024. Designer Bag Bingo at Pennridge Community Ctr, 146 E Main St, Perkasie. Doors open 11:30am, games at 1pm. Tkts are $25/adv, $35/door. Email: manager.pcsc@yahoo.com or call 215-453-7027 for tkts or info.
May 15
‘Ride for the Ranch’ (Covered Bridge Tour w/a stop at Last Chance Ranch) 45 miles roundtrip. (r/d 5/22). Regis: 9am, begins 11am at Keelersville Club, 2522 N Ridge Rd, Perkasie. Cash breakfast 8am, Cash BBQ lunch/bar after ride. FMI: lastchanceranch.org “Bucks County Covered Bridges” 2pm at Springfield Twp Histor. Soc. one-room schoolhouse, 2165 Rte 212, Pleasant Valley (GPS Coopersburg). Speaker: Jeff Lindtner, free program, all are welcome. FMI: Tom 484-308-1510. 16th Annual Basket Bingo (opens 11:30am, games 1pm) Tkts: $25/adv. No alcohol. Sellersville Fire Dept, 2 N Main St. Call for tickets: 215-257-4028 x305 “Revelation: Light Breaking Darkness” (in-person & FaceBook Livestream Concert) 4pm at Trinity Lutheran, 19 South 5th St, Perkasie. Free will offering performance. FMI: valleychoralsociety.com Car Cruise w/Good Time Motorvators at Quakertown Dairy Queen on Rte 309 (4pm8pm) $1 donation will go to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. goodtimemotorvators.com Lehigh County Humane Soc. 2nd Garden Party, 2pm-5pm at Bell Gate Farm, 7081 Bell
Gate Rd, Coopersburg. Food, beer, wine, auctions, music, artwork by shelter animals for sale. Benefits Addie’s Fund for pets needing medical care. FMI: 610-797-1205.
May 16
Free Community Dinner (3rd Mon each month). Pick-up 5:30pm at Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie
Mkt, 201 Station Rd. If it rains the show will be in Event Room 201. Celebrate Memorial Day w/songs from WW2 Era. 30th Lake Lenape Jamboree Car Show, 555 Constitution Ave, Perkasie. (r/d 5/30) Registration 9am-12noon. Trophies, raffles, vendors, music, food. $20/pre-reg., $25/day of. FMI: goodtimemotorvators@yahoo.com
May 19
May 30
Free Community Dinner (3rd Thurs. every month) 5:30pm (doors open 5pm) at First UCC, 4th St & Park Ave, Quakertown. All welcome, no need for reservations. FMI: 215-536-4447
May 21
Indoor Craft Show 9am-4pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. Event Rm 201. Text George at 267-884-5956 to register. Spring Open House 11am-3pm at Logan’s Heroes Animal Rescue, 9411 Kings Hwy, East Greenville. FMI: LHARinc.org/events or 484-719-7101. Meet adoptable dogs, vendors, raffles. Well behaved dogs on leashes welcome. Arts Alive! in Downtown Quakertown. Live entertainment, food, face painting, clown, balloons, Capt America, alpacas & more. (rain date May 22) FMI: quakertownalive.com or 215-536-2273. “Amy’s Ride Run Walk” (42-mile bike ride) (24-mile bike ride) (5K Run) (5K Walk) at The Park at 4th in Quakertown. 100% donations benefit pancreatic cancer care. Visit AmysRideRunWalk.com to sign up. Perkasie Leo Club Car Wash, 9am-1pm at Callowhill & Branch Rds, Perkasie. Funds raised for community service projects.
May 21 & 22
“WW II: featuring Charles Nace Collection” at Perkasie Historical Society Museum, 513 W Walnut St, Perkasie. FMI: perkasiehistory.org
May 22
FREE Concert “Maddie Pearl” 1pm-3pm on the Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. FREE Concert “Tookany Creek Bluegrass Band” 6pm-8pm at Green Lane Park Amphitheater. FMI: 215-234-4528. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. All ages, free.
May 23
Inaugural Quakertown Invitational Golf Outing, 10am-5pm at Steel Club, 700 Linden Ave, Hellertown. FMI: 610-838-7018.
May 25
‘Old Villages of Hilltown’ by Hilltown Twp Hist. Soc. 7pm at Municipal Bldg, 13 W Creamery Rd & Rte 113, Silverdale. See 19th C. photos showing long-ago villages along old Hilltown Pike. Free, donations welcome. FMI: hilltownhistory.org
May 27
“Elvis” in Concert Tribute w/Jeff Krick. Fundraiser at UB Senior Activity Ctr, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Milford Square. Doors open 6:30, Show 7pm. Tkts:$25/includes light snacks, soda, water, coffee. FMI/tkts: Sara 215-536-3066.
May 28
FREE WWWA Wrestling Event, 4pm in North Lot (across from Garden Ctr) at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. R/D May 29. Please bring your own chairs.
May 29
“USO Show w/Lorri & James” 11am-1pm on the Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers
Memorial Day
Quakertown Memorial Day Parade & Service forms 9am at 9th St & Park Ave and ends at the Memorial across from Qtown Pool. Service at 10am. Speaker will be a retired woman Navy Admiral from our area. Please stand as our Flag passes by you in the Parade.
June 4 Flea Mkt/Bake Sale 8am-2pm at Upper Bucks Senior Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Milford Square. Kitchen open 8am-1pm for breakfast & lunch. (flea mkt tables $15 each) FMI: Sara Kelly 215-536-3066 Outdoor Community Flea Market 9am-2pm at Christ’s Lutheran, 1 Luther Ln,Trumbauersville. $15/space. Bring own table. Reserve or FMI: 215-536-3193 or 215-536-1158. ‘U.S. Sanitary Commission during Civil War’ by Hilltown Twp Hist. Soc. 11am-4pm at 1800s Strassburger Farmstead, 407 Keystone Dr & Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville. FREE (Rain date June 5) FMI: 267-614-9174 Upper Saucon Lion’s Club Flea Mkt/Craft Show 8am-3pm at Living Memorial Grounds, Rte 309 & Fairmount St, Coopersburg. FMI/Vendor info: 800-405-2773 or email: UpperSauconL@gmail.com (Rain date June 11) Flea/Craft Mkt 8am-2pm outdoors at St. George’s Episcopal, 735 Delaware Ave, Hellertown. FMI: leave message on Church phone 610-838-9355 Pre-ordered hoagies from Quakertown Lion’s Club pick-up is from 9:30am-11am at QNB, downtown Quakertown. Limited amount of hoagies will be available for walk-up sales.
May 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
Bucks Senior Games Slated for June 1 - 17
The Bucks County Area Agency on Aging supported by the Bucks County Foundation for Aging, along with our partners- Bucks County Department of Parks and Recreation, Bucks County Community College, and the Senior Games Committee- invite you to the 2022 Bucks County Senior Games. We encourage residents 50 and over at all levels of ability to compete and make new friends in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Billiards, Bocce, Disc Golf, Bowling, Chess, Darts,
Pickleball clinic, and virtual board games are just a few of the 28 event offerings. The 2022 Senior Games are supported by the Bucks County Commissioners and made possible with the help of many people and organizations. Our new online registration site can be visited by clicking here: www.BCAAAevent.com Deadline to register is May 10. For more information or questions, email: srgames@buckcounty.org or call 267-880-5700.
Have something to share with your community? info@ubfp.org • 215-529-8915 www.ubfp.org • fb.com/ubfreepress 582 S. West End Blvd • Quakertown, PA 18951
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2022
Cosplay for a Cause: Local Captain America Raises Awareness for Veterans
Thinking About Buying a Business? Do your Homework First BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ. Buying an existing business can be a great source of additional income or a way to change your career path without having to submit all those resumes and go on all those annoying job interviews. But buying an existing business does not come without risks. And what is the best way to mediate those risks you ask? DO YOUR HOMEWORK IN ADVANCE! Here are some tips for anyone thinking about buying an existing business that should make the process move along much smoother and alleviate a lot of the stress. • Thoroughly review the business’s financials. Go back a minimum of 3 years, and if possible, 5 years is ideal. This means reviewing tax returns. If you don’t feel comfortable reviewing tax returns, pass them on to your CPA and have him/her take a look. And if the business you are looking to purchase is a sole proprietorship, make sure you take a look at the P & L statements as well, since a sole prop’s income tax return may include additional income that is not part of the business. • Review all existing contracts that the business currently has in place. This means supplier/ distributor contracts, vendor contracts, lease agreements, employment contracts, insurance policies, service contracts, etc. You want to be aware of the current contractual obligations of the business for both financial and legal purposes. You also want to want to know when the terms of these contracts are up, that way you are not blindsided shortly after purchasing the business. The first 12 months after buying a business are the most crucial, and nothing derails business like having your landlord inform you that you need to be moved out of your commercial space within 30 days because your lease has expired and you missed the deadline for submitting notice of renewal. • Speak with your financial advisor. Will you need outside financing for the purchase? If so, will you be able to obtain the financing
within the proper time frame? If you cannot get financing within the time constraints, can you afford to pay cash for the purchase? All of these things need to be fleshed out before you can get serious about purchasing an existing business. If you have covered all of these points, then it is time to call your attorney for representation during the negotiation process. The beginning phase of negotiations will only cover the basic terms of the agreement like purchase price and timelines. These will usually be spelled out in a Letter of Intent (LOI). This is (usually) not a contract, unless the parties want it to be, but it does afford some protection to both the buyer and seller during the remainder of the negotiation process up until settlement. It can prohibit the seller from opening up negotiations with another potential buyer for a set period of time, which benefits the buyer. And it can also make the remainder of the transaction contingent on the buyer obtaining financing within a certain number of days, thus protecting the seller from being stuck in negotiations with a buyer who doesn’t have the funds to purchase the business. Once the LOI is in place, the remainder of the transaction terms will be negotiated and fully set forth in an asset purchase agreement, drafted by either party’s attorney. Buying a business can be a very fruitful endeavor. In order to increase your chances of success, do your homework in advance, and then contact an experienced business law attorney who can guide you the rest of the way. perienced estate planning attorney in your area. Robert E. Fravel, Esq. is a Bucks County attorney located at 123 N. Main Street, Suite 101B, in Dublin, Pennsylvania. He specializes in estate planning & administration, family law, and business law. To set up a consultation, call his office at (267) 227-9138 or visit his website at www.fravel-law.com
The character of Captain America has been described as “a patriotic soldier, directed by a personal ethical compass, belief in the American dream and faith in his fellow man... He’s the person you wish you were” by Rick Remender, who took the new comic series over in 2012. Chris Evans’ portrayal of Captain America in the blockbuster Marvel movies has solidified the character as a fan favorite. “Cap” is Everyman and relatable on many levels to many people. For Robert Coyle, founder of Shield for a Cause, donning the Captain America uniform is a way to “start the conversation about a difficult subject”. A recent study by the America’s Warrior Partnership found that there are 17 veteran suicides each and every day. This number is twice as high as civilian rates. Overdose is the most common cause of death among veterans. This is four times as high as the civilian overdose rate. The lack of mental health resources for military veterans diagnosed with PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is cited to be one of the top causes of this epidemic of veteran suicides. Shield for a Cause was founded to help raise awareness and funds for underserved veterans, to keep them from falling between the cracks into drug use and suicide – “A vet that falls between the cracks is the vet we lose” and it is important to everyone involved with Shield for a Cause that no veteran is lost. So while Captain America is a magnet for youngsters vying for a photo, veterans also approach Coyle in in Cap persona. “Cap is a spokesperson,” says Coyle. The organization can direct veterans to rehabilitative programs and can help to cover the costs that the
Veterans Administration do not. This is done through specific scholarships or to donations to programs to sponsor veterans in need. Coyle recognizes that the Veterans Administration is backlogged and that private organizations such as Shield for a Cause are essential to getting veterans the help they need and deserve. Coyle was inspired by his grandmother, a retired Marine, to join the military. He grew up on stories about his grandparents during the Vietnam War. As he tells it, the Army recruitment office was closed when he went to sign up – but the Marine center was open, so he went in to talk ultimately joining the US Marine Corps. Coyle was injured and diagnosed with PTSD. He credits his family for giving him the support he needed during that difficult time. “I thought I was going to be a Marine for life,” he said. He realizes that his life could have taken a darker turn without that network behind him. Coyle credits a Sergeant that he knew during his Marine years for inspiring him to become Captain America. “He embodied Cap and I was like his Bucky,” said Coyle, referring to the friendship in the comics and movies, “He dressed as Cap and would visit children’s hospitals.” Coyle lost touch with his friend and later found out that he had committed suicide. The Sergeant’s wife told Coyle that his friend had wanted him to continue with the Captain America character. Coyle still carries his friend’s shield. Coyle hopes to return to visiting children’s hospitals one day, after the COVID restrictions are eased. Shield for a Cause is a veteran-owned nonprofit organization. Follow them on Facebook for updates on appearances and more information about their mission.
QNB Bank Promotes April Donahue to Vice President, Retail Lending Manager April Donahue was named Vice President, Retail Lending Manager at QNB Bank. In her role, April is responsible for managing QNB’s Retail Lending Department. She is also responsible for establishing a strong market presence for QNB Bank by developing relationships to support the lending needs of individuals in our communities. April has been in banking for 36 years, previously serving as
Vice President, Business Development Officer at QNB Bank. She earned her Bachelor of Science and MBA at Delaware Valley University. April is very active in the community, serving as a Board member of Manna on Main Street, Indian Valley Chamber of Commerce, National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, and Chalfont New Britain Business Alliance. She is also a member of the Montco-New Britain Rotary Club.
Comfort Agbortoko Named Lehigh Valley Business 2022 Health Care Hero Lehigh Valley Business has selected Comfort Agbortoko, New Vitae’s Director of Action Recovery Brain Injury Services, as a recipient of its 2022 Health Care Heroes award. Agbortoko is recognized in the category of Health Professional Hero, which honors leaders, teachers and other influencers to ensure excellence in health care. Lehigh Valley Business created Health Care Heroes to recognize individuals and organizations who have had a positive impact on the quality of health care in the Greater Lehigh Valley area. Honorees were selected by Lehigh Valley Business editors. Agbortoko leads New Vitae’s Action Recovery Brain Injury Program, which offers cutting-edge services for individuals who have experienced brain injuries. The program utilizes residential habilitation and neurocognitive structured day services to support personal growth and proficiency. Agbortoko started her career working in residential group homes that were created to serve the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, and severe and persistent behavioral health and
substance use challenges. She also has served as Program Director for residential homes that serve individuals with a primary diagnosis of traumatic brain injury. “We are honored that Comfort has been recognized among the Lehigh Valley Business Health Care Heroes,” said New Vitae President and CEO Judith Yanacek. “She has demonstrated remarkable dedication to our residents’ care and wellbeing, and we are so thankful for her service. Comfort is incredibly deserving of this recognition, and we are happy to celebrate this wonderful achievement with her.” Agbortoko will be honored June 3 during an online celebration at 10 a.m. at www.lvb.com/event/healthcare-heroes/. Each winner will be celebrated for their achievements through video storytelling. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in the program by sharing congratulations and cheers using social media platforms. The event hashtag is #LVBevents.
May 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
The Friendly Skies I hate to fly. I don’t like anything about it. (Does anyone, once the novelty of the first time wears off? And…I’m speaking of flying only, as other first time experiences we may look back on with fondness…or not…hopefully become better with age and plenty of practice!) From having to arrive ninety minutes ahead of time, the exorbitant airline fees, parking fees, expensive airport food, terrible airplane food…the list goes on. It’s not fun. And now, for my recent flight to L.A., It was a total of nine hours wearing a mask. Oy! I lamented recently to Shelli that if I never flew again, I would be happy. She reminded me that we would then not be able to take our cancelled-due-to-covid trip to Belize later this year, or our hoped for trips to Ireland and Portugal in the next few years. Also, could not go to L.A. Not that I am a fan of the left coast, but I do love hanging with those two little grandkids… But then we took this trip out recently… We had minimal traffic on our way to Newark Airport, quickly found a decent parking spot, and after a short wait got on the plane for our six hour flight. All smooth… And the seats were incredible! This particular airplane has first class, with those cool little cubicles that I can’t afford that let one stretch out, a mid-section with much wider seats and more legroom, and our normal economy. For some reason, when I booked, the midsection was less expensive than economy! No idea why. Perhaps they wanted the good looking old people closer to the front. And so…we settled in…two wide seats in place of three cramped how-do-I-scratch-myskinny-tuchus-without-hitting-the-guy-next-tome-or-getting-up cheap seats.
And the flight attendants were nice and very attentive… Maybe they are the friendly skies after all! Then, about an hour into the flight, they brought out free breakfast…free breakfast! And on real plates for chrissakes…It’s like a Twilight Zone here! And while it was too early for us, the beer and wine was free…next time I’ll fly later… Landed at LAX, and our suitcases…(We need two because Shelli’s nine pounds of toiletries put us over the 50 pound limit per bag. PS: I am not exaggerating. I weighed the toiletry bag.)…the heavy suitcases, came out immediately, just as we hit the carousel! We took a Lyft down to Encino. For those not familiar, the traffic in L.A. is horrendous. I used to commute to Jersey and New York a lot, and while I thought THAT traffic was bad, it’s not even close. Our destination where the grandkids are waiting, is only about 18 miles away, or in Los Angeles time, an hour and a half. But, our very friendly driver notified us that the 405 was barely moving as usual, but he could get us there faster if we took the city streets. Go for it my friend!!! What a great start to our little trip! So, while the return trip wasn’t quite as fantastic, we did sit together, there were no screaming babies on board, and I only had to get up once to go to the bathroom. Plus, we landed almost an hour early, and our bags came out quickly…a first for Newark! Overall, a much better than normal flying experience, which makes me think that I might have to reconsider… Maybe we could have a nice Belize ocean swim after all… John Schaninger is a lifelong resident of Pennsylvania and has lived in Upper Black Eddy for 12 years. Reach him at m12string@aol.com
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4 Warning Signs of Pest Property Damage If you’ve noticed unusual signs of damage around your property, pests may be to blame. Rodents, insects and other types of pests can wreak havoc on properties and cause unforeseen damage that ends up resulting in costly repairs. Here are four signs that are indicative of pests causing damage in your home: Unstable Floors The sudden feeling that the floors in your home are unstable could be a sign of a pest problem. This may be especially true if you have hardwood floors that are damaged because of termites. You might notice the boards curling on your floor as damage persists. Flaking and crumbling may also become noticeable as your floors continue to deteriorate from the damage. Crushedlooking wood at structurally significant points can be another obvious sign of a pest problem. Tap Test Failure Damage that’s impossible to see can sometimes be detected by performing a tap test on wood surfaces around your home. Wood that’s solid all the way through should produce a thudding sound when tapped, and any hollow sounds could mean that termites or other pests are wearing away at the wood. Hollow sounds also mean that significant portions of your wood have already been lost, and calling a termite treatment specialist and contractor to repair the damage can resolve the
problem and protect your home’s structure. Electrical Problems If lights, appliances or other equipment around your home that’s powered by electricity start to fail, you might have a pest problem on your hands. Lights that dim or completely go out along with appliances that don’t have as much power or fail to turn on when plugged in could mean that pests are damaging the wires. Rodents are known to chew through wires, which can also create a fire hazard in your home. Mud Tunnels Tubes that appear to be made of mud may be visible in your yard and even on the side of your home. These tunnels are often constructed by organ pipe mud dauber wasps to store their larvae. Termites are also known to build tunnels that look like mud but are made from a combination of soil and wood along with a substance consisting of their saliva and feces. You might find these lining walls and floors, acting as a sure sign of infestation if you find them in your home. Learning about the signs of pest damage will make it easier for you to act quickly to resolve the problem. Pest damage isn’t always obvious, and taking the time to perform a thorough inspection will allow you to stay on top of any situation that may arise. Sue Deily has been a Realtor for 34 years, resides in the Upper Bucks County area and enjoys serving her clients in Bucks, Lehigh, and Montgomery Counties. Contact her at suesellshouses@gmail.com or 215-872-9865.
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2022
James H. McMichael Jr., 82, and
Beverly McMichael (Culver), 81, of Millsboro DE, both passed away from natural causes within days of each other after sharing 61 years of marriage. Beverly passed on February 22nd and James on March 5th. They were long-time residents of Washington, PA before moving to Millsboro, DE. James was born in 1939 in Rices Landing, PA, he was the son of the late James Sr. and Ethel Mae (Hathaway) McMichael. James honorably served his country in the United States Army before taking up a career as a bank manager. James was a proud member of the Rotary Club and on the board of the ARC, both in Washington, PA. Beverly was born in 1940 in Worthington, PA, she was the daughter of the late Edwin and Madeline (Ottenberg) Culver. Beverly worked for many years as a legal secretary. She was an active member of the Garden Club in Washington, PA. James and Beverly are survived by their two sons: James McMichael, III (Charla) of Friendswood, TX and Matthew McMichael, Sr. (Megan) of Quakertown, PA and two grandsons Andrew McMichael of Friendswood, TX and Matthew McMichael, Jr. of Quakertown, PA. They were preceded in death by two grandchildren Daniel and Hope McMichael. They will forever be loved and missed by the family they so fiercely cherished. Services will be held privately at a later date. Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with the services.
Bernardine F Seiger, passed away on March 29, 2022, surrounded by her family at her residence in Lakeville PA. She was 95 years old. She was born and raised in Plymouth PA along with her brother Eddie and sister Winnie. Her parents were Frank and Nellie Kupstas. After high school and attending the Wharton School of Business, she met and fell in love with George J Seiger, an Army veteran. They moved to Levittown PA at the time the town was just being built. She and George had three children: Renee, Stephen, and Patti. They shared many great years together and even
~Obituaries~
saved up enough to have a cabin built at Lake Wallenpaupack. She loved going out to breakfast each weekend with her daughter Patti and son in law Rob. Bernie loved her grandkids, and wanted to know every detail of their lives. In 2020, it was back to the cabin that she and George had built at Lake Wallenpaupack to live out the rest of her years with her daughter Renee and son in law Tom. Surviving is her daughters Renee B. Lloyd and Patricia Stets, sons-in-law Thomas Lloyd and Robert F Stets, grandchildren Shawn Stets, Eric Lloyd, Dennis Lloyd, and Brian Lloyd, sister Winnie Scalzitti, nephews Tony Scalzitti, Dino Scalzitti, Gino Scalzitti, and niece Sonia Hurley. Her family will miss her dearly. She was quite a strong sweet soul. They are grateful for all of her advice, her laugh, and her beautiful blue eyes. She was predeceased by son Stephen Seiger, brother Edward Kupstas, and granddaughter Christina Lloyd. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to St Isidore’s Church, Quakertown. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Services of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
Austin S. Grote, 33, of Quakertown formerly of Souderton died March 29, 2022 in his home. He was the husband of Andrea M. (De Lillio) Grote. He would have been married 10 years this May, to the love of his life for 15 years. Born in Sellersville he was the son of Steven & Elaine (Ruth) Grote. Since the age of 16 he was an Automotive Mechanic for Bill Mitchell Auto of Chalfont. He was a race enthusiast enjoying cars and motorcycles. Austin was a perfectionist and worked on anything mechanical. One of his greatest joys was enjoying time with his son especially on the ski slopes. In addition to his wife and parents he is survived by a son Aiden Scott, and a daughter Audrey Marie; a brother Adrian Grote and a niece Abby Nice.
Services were held on Sunday, April 3, 2022 in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Andrea Grote in care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. at the above address.
Curtis G. Bickerstaff, 84, of Quakertown died March 30, 2022 in Harborview Rehabilitation & Care Center in Lansdale. He was the husband of the late Naomi (Mallow) Bickerstaff. Born in Paintertown, PA, he was the son of the late Samuel G. & Marie T. (Curry) Bickerstaff. He was a retired warehouse manager for Bergey’s Tire Service in Franconia. Prior to that he worked for Lee Tire & Rubber Co. in Conshohocken. He is survived by a son Paul (Jessica), a daughter Jodi Corbitt (Michael), two sisters Carolyn Stafko, & Carole Slade; five grandchildren Brandi Toro (Scott), Chelsea Spehalski (Drew), Nathan Bickerstaff, Zachary Heiser (Angela), & Azalea Corbitt, three great grandchildren Remy, Killian, Charlotte and a great granddaughter expected in June. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. Paul Frank Braun, Jr., 68, of Pennsburg passed away peacefully at his home on March 30, 2022 after fighting a long and hard battle of Guillian Barre Syndrome along with other serious medical complications. Paul was born in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia on August 16, 1953 to Miriam (Knoedler) Braun and the late Paul Frank Braun Sr. Paul was the loving husband of Carmella V. (Forbes) Braun for almost 49 years. Paul was a proud Air Force veteran who served 20 years. During this time he was proud to be selected for a special top secret assignment with the 4477 test and evaluation squadron which was known as the Red Eagles. Following this assignment he and his family relocated from Nevada to Langley AFB, Virginia. He also served in Operational Desert Storm. When Paul returned home to Langley AFB he retired from the service. Following retirement from the Air Force he worked in a few nursing homes as the director of maintenance. Paul had a passion for gardening, fixing things around the house and spending time with family and grandchildren. Paul had a green thumb and took pride in his rose garden and loved his mums that he planted that would bloom every fall. Paul is survived by his mother; wife; children Danielle (Troy) Oswalt, Aaron (Dana) Braun; and Kirsten (Christopher) Correll; grandchildren Allora, Hannah, Zoie, Rainah, Aspyn, Colin, Lukas, and Everly Rose; great grandson Zayden; and many other loving family and friends. Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with her arrangements. Elfriede H. Werner, 93, of Quakertown, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on April 1, 2022. Born in Fulda, Germany, she was the daughter of the late Friedrich and Brigitte (Schuler) Heller. She was the wife of the late James I. Werner, Sr, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage. She worked for many years as a bookkeeper for Sears (Quakertown, PA), the former Kelly Construction, Inc., and the Belle Haven Nursing Home. She was member of the St. Isidore’s RC of Quakertown where she served on the church council, on the church choir and on the food bank of the church. Elfriede was a very active community servant and spent a lot of time volunteering. She was on the Quakertown Borough Council for over 25 years. She served on numerous boards, including the Children’s Developmental Program and Bucks County Community College. She was a member of the Quakertown Business and Professional Women’s Club for 61 years and was recognized as the BPW/PA Woman of the Year in 2014. She was long time member of the Sertoma Club of Quakertown. She was survived by her children, Alfred and wife, Nancy, of E. Greenville, Rose Weiss of Quakertown, Helen and husband, Jonathan Rittenhouse, of Trout Run, Lisa and husband, Jay MacDonald, of Van Alstyne, TX, Dr. Daniel Werner of Whitehall and
brother, Dr. Reinhold Heller, of Lisle, Illinois, grandchildren, Shannon Roberts, Rob Werner, and Melissa Padera, Carl Weiss II and Kim Hoffman, Adam Rittenhouse, Jason Rittenhouse, Emily Rittenhouse, Jonathan Rittenhouse, and Zoey MacDonald, greatgrandchildren Kaya, Sophie, Alexander, James, Ben, Matt, Carl III, Madilyn, Makayla, Autumn, August, Christian, Cohen, Ashton, Liam, and Everett. She was predeceased by two sons, James I. Werner, Jr. and Edward Werner. Memorial Contributions may be made to the St. Isidore R.C.C. Building Fund. Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with her arrangements.
Arlene “Lena” Wieand, age 71, of Quakertown, passed away on March 31, 2022, at Lehigh Valley Hospice in Allentown. She was the loving wife to David R. Wieand with whom they shared 41 years of marriage. Born in Allentown, she was a daughter of the late Horace J. Sr. and Ruth (Erney) Schaffer. She graduated from Quakertown High School in 1968. Arlene was an exempt member of Quakertown Fire Company No. 1 and was an ambulance lieutenant. Her hobbies included gardening, fishing, and hunting. She enjoyed pitching in on her father’s farm and spending time with her extended family. Surviving along with her husband is son Bradley Wieand, siblings Mary (Denis) Maurer, Danny (Debbie) Schaffer, Judy Craner, and Dave (Cindy) Schaffer, ten nieces and nephews, and beloved dog Rascal. She was predeceased by daughter Tiffany Wieand and brothers Donald Schaffer and Horace J. Schaffer, Jr. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Quakertown Fire Company No.1, P.O. Box 398, Quakertown, PA 18951. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). Paul Daniel Seip, Jr., age 78, of Quakertown, passed away on March 31, 2022, at his residence. He was the loving husband to Janet (Koehler) Seip with whom he shared 54 years of marriage. Born in Quakertown, he was a son of the late Paul Daniel, Sr. and Valence (Gerhart) Seip. He was employed at The Ribbon Mill, RCA, and Atlas in his lifetime. Paul loved the Philadelphia Eagles and watching Nascar. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife, hunting, and fishing. Surviving along with his wife is son Michael Nice, brother David (Cheryl) Seip, and nephews David Seip, Jr. and Gregory Seip. He was predeceased by daughter Jennifer Palm, sister Linda Seip, and niece Angeline Seip. Services will be private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service (215-536-3343). Carol L. King, 76, of Coopersburg, passed away Thursday, March 31, 2022 at Lehigh Valley Hospital - Cedar Crest Campus. Born in 1946, she was the daughter of the late Elvin and Eva (Leh) Gross. She was the widow of the late Earl King, with whom she shared 56 years of marriage before his death last year. Carol was a long-time member at Chestnut Hill UCC, Coopersburg, PA. In her spare time, she enjoyed reading, quilting, and spending time at the Coopersburg Senior Center. Carol is survived by her daughters Andrea King-Martin (Jesse), Barbara KingDeFiore (Richard), grandchildren, Alex Martin (Mackenzie), Brandin DeFiore, Heather Martin, Bradley DeFiore (Sabrina), Mina Martin, and Samuel Martin, greatgrandchildren, Ava and Bella DeFiore. She was pre-deceased by her brothers, Kenneth and Richard Gross, and son, Darrell King. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to Chestnut Hill UCC, or the Lower Milford Fire Department. Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with her arrangements. Irene (Sue) R Hagerman, 90, passed away on Friday April, 1, 2022. Born in Hilltown, PA in 1931, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Mary Rawa. She resided in Audubon, PA for over fifty years. She was predeceased by husband Samuel, her sister Joan, brothers Joseph, Raymond, Thomas, and Rev. Jerome Rawa. She was survived by her son Michael Burke, his wife Marla, Stepdaughter Barbara McDaniel, her husband Brian, siblings Marie T. Knight, Frank Rawa and John Rawa. Grandchildren Adam Burke, William Burke,
May 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
Tina Klarsch, step-grandson Craig McDaniel. Great-grandchildren Brycen, Zander, James, Liam, and Piper. She was employed at Merck Sharp and Dohme, in West Point for 32 years. Prior to retiring in 1987, she held the position of Benefits Administrator. She was a member of St. Theresa of Avila R.C.C., Norristown, PA. She also attended services at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, Audubon, PA. When Sue wasn’t traveling, dancing, cooking, entertaining, playing bridge and other card games, she was volunteering. She proudly lent her time and talents for American Red Cross, ALS, Meals on Wheels, Interfaith, American Heart Association, and the Merck Volunteer Program. Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with her arrangements. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to St. Theresa of Avila R.C.C., or Animals in Distress (Coopersburg, PA.).
Nancy Marie Drybola, 62, of Quakertown died April 1, 2022 in Quakertown Center. Born in Chicago, IL she was the daughter of the late William T. & Sue Ann (Blunt) Plimmer, Sr. She was a professional clown after attending Clown School. She was a former member of the Quakertown Lions, and a former Girl Scout Leader of various troops in Quakertown. She collected antiques, and enjoyed doing crafts. She is survived by a son Andrew R. (Whitney) and a daughter Jennifer Cotton (Tom) both of Quakertown; a brother William Plimmer, Jr. (Doreen) of Arkansas; and a sister Jeanne Bernat of Illinois; one granddaughter Katherine Marie. Arrangements in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown, PA. Memorial contributions can be made to the Dementia Society of America, P.O. Box 600, Main St. Doylestown PA 18901 or www.dementiasociety.org. Nora “Nuala” Lynn, 93, of Quakertown, PA, passed away peacefully at home on April 3, 2022. Nora was born in County Kerry, Ireland, on June 24, 1928, to the late Bartholomew and Hannah O’Sullivan. She was married to the late Joseph Charles Lynn for 58 years until he died in 2013. Nora formed an instant connection with everyone she met. She was a kind, gentle spirit who worked hard at whatever she was doing, striving for perfection. She adored chatting with people, keeping up with the news, eating good food, and drinking a cup of Irish tea -brewed just right. Nora loved to bake. Most of all, Nora loved being outside, working in the yard and visiting with friends and neighbors. The farmer’s daughter never lost her passion for toiling in the soil. Nora came to the United States in 1952 with her sister Mary Anne. They lived in Alexandria, VA, commuting into Washington, DC. She married Joe in 1955. Nora volunteered at multiple organizations, including the American Red Cross, Meals on Wheels, and the Quakertown Community Hospital. She was a member of the Women’s Club of Quakertown. Nora is survived by her children Rose Marie (Al) Sweeney, Kathleen Lynn, Patricia (David) Howells, Kevin Lynn, and Paul (Kelley) Lynn; daughter-in-law Linda Lynn; grandchildren Brandon, Brett, Christina, Joey, Adam, and Ashley; great grandchildren Darren, Jayce, Jailynn, Easton, Aydn, and Garrett; sisters Kitty O’Leary, Pauline Cronin, and Margaret (Jerry) O’Hara; scores of nieces and nephews; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; husband; son Joseph Lynn; and sister Mary Anne Golik. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Quakertown Food Pantry at 101 N. 3rd Street, Quakertown, PA 18951, www. quakertownfoodpantry.org. And in Nora’s memory, please pray for Ukraine. Arrangements are in the care of Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service (nauglefcs.com). Nancy Jane (Heft) Eckenrode, of Quakertown, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 9, 2022. She was born July 28, 1936, the youngest child of Lillian (Hittinger) and Walter Heft of Bethlehem. Nancy graduated from Liberty High School in 1954 where she was a varsity cheerleader. She graduated from Sacred Heart School of Nursing in 1957. She worked as an RN until she retired in 1998. Nancy was raised in a large family with 3 sisters and a brother, but she had a huge family of Pennsylvania Dutch aunts, uncles and cousins. She was very close to her extended family.
~Obituaries~
She was an avid card player, golfer, bowler, piano player and dog lover. She loved family gatherings and high school reunions, and stayed in touch with many of her classmates through the years. Nancy married her childhood boyfriend, Carl Eckenrode, in 1958, and they had 4 children. She was never happier than when she was with her family, attending graduations, sporting events, recitals, games and plays. She was a Mom to many and was very active in the lives of her grandchildren. She had weekly Sunday dinners at her farmhouse in Quakertown and everyone was welcome at her table. She was one of those rare people that made you feel good about everything. She was the glue that held together two very different families. Nancy’s husband, Carl, passed away in 2008. She is predeceased by her parents, brother Walter, and her sisters Janice and Kitty. She is survived by her children Scott (Terry) and Michael of Quakertown, Tom (Lisa) of Lovettsville, VA and Jill of Bend, OR, sister Rhea Solliday of Virginia Beach, VA, 6 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Nancy’s children would like to sincerely thank the wonderful staff on the third floor of St. Luke’s Hospital, Quakertown for the loving care given to Nancy this past week. What a fantastic group of caring people! We are truly blessed that our mother found peace through your exceptional care. Nancy requested that there will be no service. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk. com) Quakertown. Please feel free to make a donation to your favorite Animal Shelter, in Nancy’s memory. “Upon Us All a Little Bit of Rain Must Fall”
Jean Ordog, 84, of Souderton formerly of Sellersville died April 10, 2022 in Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest. She was the wife of the late Sandor Ordog, Sr. Born in Gyor, Hungary she was the daughter of the late Joseph & Irene (Kellmem) Paar. She owned and operated an ice cream stand at the former Montgomeryville Mart. She enjoyed dancing, singing and trained to be an Opera Singer in Hungary. Jean loved to bake and cook especially her fried chicken. She attended St. Agnes Catholic Church in Sellersville. She is survived by three daughters Agnes Ordog of New Tripoli, Edith Martorana (Joseph) of Souderton, and Virginia McGuigan (Frank) of O’Fallon, Illinois; two brothers Zoltan (Agnes), Joseph (Susan) and a sister Irene all in Hungary; nine grandchildren Rick Williams, Jr. (Jill), Dominic Sumpolec (Jaime), Brandon Williams (Stephanie), Michael McGuigan, Benjamin McGuigan, Anthony Martorana (Alix), Shayne Ordog, Hunter Ordog, & Brielle Ordog; ten great grandchildren Kendra, Issac, Iassiah, Chase, Braydon, Dominic, Isabella, Mairead, Maisie, and Brandon. She was predeceased by a sister Magdalene. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Diabetes Association 150 Monument Rd. Suite 100 Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 or to the American Heart Association 5455 N. High St. Columbus, OH 43214. (www.crstrunk.com) Kimberly
D.
Mallery,
65, of Quakertown, passed away Monday, April 11th, 2022 at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest Campus. Born in 1956, she was the daughter of Gail E. (Allem) DeReiter and the late Kenneth C. DeReiter. She was the wife of Ronald C. Mallery, with whom she shared 44 years of marriage. Kim was a long-time member of Christ’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (Trumbauersville, PA). Kimberly worked as a registered nurse since 1977 at LifeQuest Nursing Center and Abington Hospital. She was also very involved with the Trumbauersville Fire Company, where she was one of the first female firefighters, along with being one of the founders of Quick Response Service (QRS). In her spare time, she enjoyed spending time in her garden preparing her flower beds and planting fruits and vegetables for canning. She also loved taking trips to Lancaster with her best friend. However, above all she loved caring for her family, especially her children and grandchildren. In addition to her husband Ron and her mother Gail, Kim is survived by her children, Joshua Mallery (Nichole), Justin Mallery (Kelly), and Ian Mallery (Noelle), her siblings, Dwight DeReiter, Michelle Jones (Jim), and Linda Reinhart (David), her grandchildren, Madison, Emily, and Isaac, niece, Sophie
Jones, nephew, Collin Reinhart, and her close friend Karen Gallie. Arrangements are in the care of Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service (nauglefcs.com).
Mary Alice Grillo, 64, passed away
April 12, 2022, at Fawcett Hospital in Port Charlotte Florida. Mary was born August 31, 1957, in Philadelphia, PA., to Edward and Dorothy Hodgson. She was the loving wife of Samuel A. Grillo for 42 years. Mary and Sam married, June 16, 1979. They were blessed with five children: Samuel Jr., Mathew, Jonathan, Nathan and Richard James. Mary loved spending her time with her husband, either in the water on their boat or cruising around town in their Corvette. She especially enjoyed spending quality time with her grandchildren and supporting them at their sporting events. Mary graduated from Pennridge High School in 1976. She attended Upper Bucks County Technical School where she studied in the Nursing Program. At 16 years of age, she began working as a cleaner and eventually transitioned into her passion for nursing, becoming a nurse’s aide. After graduating from the Nursing Program as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Mary was a full time Nurse for Grandview Hospital. After 5 years of service at Grandview Hospital, she moved onto Zohlman Nursing Home for the following 7 years. Mary finished her nursing career as a private nurse where she was loved and admired by all her patients. Mary is survived by her husband, Samuel Grillo Sr and her children, Samuel Jr. (Cassandra) Grillo, Mathew, Jonathan (Katie Burns) Grillo, Nathan and Richard James; five grandchildren, Sophia, Constance, Dominick, Layla and Delainey; two sisters, Pamela (George) Wilkins and Patricia Miller; two brothers Edward (Joanne) Hodgson and Richard Hodgson; three nieces, Amanda, Riley, and Miranda; two nephews, Eddie, Alex and several cousins. Mary especially will be remembered for her beautiful personality and fiery spirit that served to strengthen everyone she met. She fought for every day. She was an inspiration to us all with the heart of lion and more lives than one. In lieu of flowers, we kindly request that you donate to Last Chance Ranch on Mary’s behalf. Arrangement have been made by Naugle Funeral and Cremation Services of Quakertown ( 215-536-3343).
Constance T. Berger, 80, of Quakertown died April 18, 2022 in Quakertown Center. Born in Sellersville she was the daughter of the late Alexander & Erma (Krastel) Lokay. She last worked for SafeGuard. Prior to that she worked for the former Penn-Cast Products, Inc. Constance enjoyed reading, baking, and all the arts including movies, plays, and theater. She is survived by a son Robert (Judy) of Sellersville; and a brother Ronald Lokay of Florida. Two grandchildren Christopher Berger (Tanaz) of Los Angeles, CA and Nicholas Berger (Sarah) of Stafford, VA, and three step grandchildren Tonya Goshow (Jeff) of Florida, Troy Renner (Tammy) of Quakertown and Tara Goodman of Perkasie. ten great grandchildren; seven great great grandchildren. Services will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Last Chance Ranch 9 Beck Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951. Jerry Souder, 80, owner and president of Souder & Souder Contracting Inc., passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on April 20, 2022. He was born in Sellersville on April 1, 1942 to the late Robert and Francis (Erb) Souder. Jerry loved going to the shore and boating with his family. He loved building homes, including the design and creation of them. During construction he particularly enjoyed running his excavator and bulldozer, digging basements and grading lawns. In his free time he liked going to car shows, and had a street rod and Corvette of his own. He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Virginia Souder; children Greg S. (Ellen Rhodes) Souder, Lori Ann (Herb) Schmoock, Karen Sue (Daryl) Schaefer, Jodi Lynn (Tim) Moyer, and Cory Lee (Taylor) Wilson; 8 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; brother Robert Raymond (Joan Mitchell) Souder; and many other loving family and friends. A celebration of life will be privately held. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jerry’s
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memory can be made to those who took fantastic care of him at Promedica Hospice, giving.promedica.org/hospice.
Eleanora Stettler, 87, of Quakertown unfortunately became gravely ill on Thursday April 21, 2022 and passed at 7:02 p.m. on Friday with family and friends present. Born in Philadelphia she was the daughter of the late Hermann & Elizabeth (Radke) Kuhlmey. Eleanora attended Penn State University, graduating in 1956 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology. While at PSU she also served as Secretary-Treasurer of the Rod and Coccus Club. Following graduation she worked at Parke, Davis & Company in Michigan until getting married in 1958. She completed course work at Delaware Valley College enabling her to work in the laboratory as a Medical Technologist at Grand View Hospital, Sellersville, retiring in 2000 after a 25+ year career. Eleanora was a member of the congregation at Trinity Lutheran Church for more than 60 years, involved in weekend retreats to Camp Men-O-Lan, teaching Sunday School classes, helping with the annual Peach Festival, and playing in the Handbell Choir. She was an active member of the local Questers chapter, a group studying history of the area. She enjoyed gardening, deep-water aerobics and swimming at the YMCA. She loved dogs, always having a partial or purebred German Shepherd by her side. She is survived by two sons Neil (Kim) of Quakertown and Mark (Cindy) of Paradise, PA, three grandchildren Courtney, Ashley, and Henry, and close friendship extensions of the family; Carol Wenger, David Mann, Ryan Devine and Bradley Smith. The timing for a gathering in remembrance will be announced once details have been determined. Most likely it will be in late May or early June. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. If you would like to make a gift in memory of Mom, please make a donation to your favorite animal shelter or dog rescue, in her name. If you do not have one in mind, Logan’s Heroes Animal Rescue 9411 Kings Highway East Greenville, PA 18041 or online at www.lharinc.org is a great choice. Hoi Van Tran, 74, of Quakertown died April 22, 2022 in his home. He was the husband of Xuan Thi (Tran) Tran. He was born in Vietnam. He was a machine operator for the former Wampler Longacre. He served during the Vietnam War. In addition to his wife he is survived by a son John David Tran, a daughter Leena Nguyen, a step son Son Le (Estella), two step daughters Tram Le (Xem Nguyen) and Dalena Kelly Tran (Jose Castrajon). One grandchild John, step grandchildren Anthony, Tiffany, Samantha, Jennifer, Justin, Gunner, Madox, Elysia, Luke, James, & Eva. Services will be held on Saturday, April 30, 2022 at 12:00 P.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. Call 9:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. in the funeral home. Charles D. Galer, 91, of Coopersburg died April 22, 2022 in Lehigh Valley Hospital Hospice Unit. He was the husband of the late Etta N. (Bennett) Galer. Born in Mifflinburg, PA he was the son of the late Arthur & Margaret Galer. He was owner/operator of the former Skips Mobile Home Service in Coopersburg retiring in 1995. Charles enjoyed bowling and bowled in many leagues including the Friday night mixers in Mountainville. In his younger years he was a race car driver especially on dirt tracks until a severe accident ended his career. Charles was a member of Crossroads Baptist Church. He was a U.S. Army Veteran serving during the Korean War. He is survived by three daughters Wanda Pick (Jim), Margie Kirchner (Robert), Brenda K. Campbell, sister in law Doris Galer, 10 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grand. Predeceased by a sister Kay and a brother Raymond. Service will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk. com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Dementia Society of America P.O. Box 600 Doylestown, PA 18901 for online donations to www. dementiasociety.org
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2022
Kathryn Pakula Named UBCTS Student of the Month
Kathryn Pakula, a Quakertown Community High School senior in our Health Care Careers program, is recognized as April’s Upper Bucks County Technical School Student of the Month. Katy is a First Honors student and has received the Outstanding Level I & II award in her program. She competed at the SkillsUSA State Competition and placed 2nd in Health Occupations Professional Portfolio. She is a Cooperative Education student employed by Ophthalmic Associates. Melissa Konecky is her instructor and commented, “It is a pleasure to have Katie Pakula as a student. She is conscientious, hard-working, and dedicated. Katie competed in the SkillsUSA state competition in Health Occupations Professional Portfolio. She put many hours of work into her portfolio, which won her Second Place in the state competition. In class, she is friendly, upbeat, and always willing to lend a hand to a fellow student who needs peer coaching and support. Katie has been participating in the Co-op Program at Ophthalmic Associates in Lansdale and has performed so well that they would like to add an extra day to her program. Katie is responsible and has excellent communication skills, frequently assisting in tours of UBCTS and most recently speaking at the NTHS award ceremony. With the work ethic Katie has shown during this year; there is no doubt in my mind that she can achieve her goal and succeed in her chosen career path as a Nurse Practitioner. Katie’s attitude is always a positive contribution to the class, and it has been my pleasure getting to know her this year.”
Her mentor Samantha Almond, Ophthalmic Technician Supervisor, stated that Kathryn is a valued employee at Ophthalmic Associates in Lansdale. While she has only been with us for a short period, she is very responsible and hardworking. She can multitask and is always on time, ready, and eager to learn. I am pleased to say that I am delighted with Kathryn’s performance up to this point, and I believe Kathryn will strive here at Ophthalmic Associates and in the future. After graduation, Katy plans to pursue a nursing or physician assistant career.
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.
May 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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Best Buddies Breaks Down Barriers to Friendship BY GARY WECKSELBLATT The most popular club at Quakertown Community High School only meets once a month for one hour, but its impact on the 180 students involved may be measured by the smiles and friendships it’s created. The club is called Best Buddies, and it’s dedicated to ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With the help of advisors Jennifer Honrado and Brittny Buonanno, Best Buddies provides club members opportunities for one-to-one friendships; leadership development for students with IDD; makes all students feel valued, and helps improve life skills. “Our goal is to bring everyone together and have them all become friends,” said Julie Pizzi, president of Best Buddies. “Everyone is smiling, and talking about their positive experiences all the time. I love how everyone is so happy when we’re together. No one is left out. It’s not about hanging out with your friends. It’s about meeting new people and making new friends.” Julia Reich, the club’s vice president, explained that get-togethers are “very much about inclusion. It’s important to us that students with special needs make friends in Best Buddies so they feel happy and included outside of meetings because they have new friends.” Julie and Julia, along with student advisors Olivia Caputo, Jessica Meirinho, Carli Maha, Emma Pham, Madalynn Willing, Aubree Thrush, Stone Renshaw, Madelyn Byrnes, Anna Zheng, Maureen Healy, and Dylan Aponte plan activities to help students of all backgrounds come together. These activities include: Halloween Scavenger Hunt: Groups went trick-or-treating around the school. Thankful leaves for turkey and friendship bracelets: Students wrote what they were thankful for on a leaf and made bracelets out of beads.
Holiday Bingo: Winners were awarded a variety of prizes. Just Dance: Everyone got on the dance floor and participated in a few just dance videos. Popcorn and a movie/Valentines for teachers: For half the meeting, students made valentine’s letters for teachers and the other half watched minions clips. St. Patty’s Scavenger Hunt: Special needs kids used calculators and regular ed kids helped them solve the problems; which led them to their next prize. Outdoor field day/games: Students will be outside this month playing all sorts of outdoor games, such as kickball, Jenga Giant and Cornhole. Best Buddies Ball: In May, students will enjoy a night of dancing and food. “Everyone is really excited about this one,” Mrs. Honrado said. “Seeing these kids light up when they come to the meetings is the reason why people come,” Julie said. “It’s amazing.” Said Julia, “These events give the buddies opportunities to interact with other people outside of the classroom. The buddies are constantly talking about the program, asking when the next event is. It’s great to be part of.” Principal Mattias van’t Hoenderdaal said the relationships that have been formed in the club “are heartwarming to see. The connections are phenomenal. They have provided our students a sense of belonging, a sense of community.” Best Buddies members recently visited the Sixth Grade Center and spoke with students about the importance of inclusion and accepting differences in people. “They spread a positive message to our kids and we appreciate them visiting with us,” said Erika Studer, an English Language Development teacher at the SGC. Mrs. Honrado said when you go through the high school cafeteria and “see buddies sitting together or walking down a hallway together, it’s all about inclusion and kindness. We have a really good group of kids.”
The War Generation The generation that I and my fellow classmates of the Class of ’61 were born in what was called the World War II years of 1943/44. A few years later the U.S. was again involved in a “UN Clash” that is now known as the Korean War. During the 50’s and 60’s we were constantly reminded of the “Cold War” that involved the Cuban Missile Crisis. When we started our 20’s we found ourselves directly in harms way as members of the Armed Forces in the prime conflict years of 1965-68. As we started to establish ourselves in society after returning home Iran and Iraq as well as the whole area around them continued the ever-present uncertainty of war and conflict that now involved the children of friends and classmates. Now in what should be our Golden Years we now face the ravages of war in the area that our country was involved with when we were born over 75 years ago! WHY? They say it is rare to remember things before the age of three. I remember sharing moments with my grandfather walking up the farm lane to our Victory Garden. He passed on before I turned three. I remember my mother taking raw milk from the farmer who owned our rental home and shaking it vigorously so she could skim off the butter. I also remember taking turns with my brother and sister to squeeze the mixture that was sold in the store to make “Oleo” (margarine). Visits by the Ragman and the Scrap Metal dealers were common place in the WWII and Korean War period as public contributions towards the war effort. I also remember my parents listening to the radio broadcasts of the news by Walter Winchell, H.V. Kaltenborn, and Gabriel Hietter. It always confused me when Mr. Hietter would start his broadcast by saying “Ah yes, there is good news tonight,” then would go on to describe all the ravages of war for that day or week. I also remember asking my parents as a young boy under 10 how they were going to erect and Iron Curtain in Europe. Little did I know that the wall erected still stood when I served time in Army Headquarters in Heidelberg, Germany and was know as the Berlin Wall! In the early ‘50’s we advanced to TV and Walter Kronkite was able to televise the terrible conditions our troops fought in on the peninsula of Korea. Now we see videos of destruction either taped that day or live when we watch the evening news.
WHY? The 50’s and 60’s brought our families as close to achieving “The American Dream” thanks to what we term the Greatest Generation returning from two wars. We were part of unbelievable achievements in exploring space, electronics, robotics, medical advancements, environment improvements, and travel affordability. Our country did this constant senselessness of various conflicts and regional wars. Why is it that we have advanced more “For the Good of Mankind” in those 75+ years of our generation and still have this barbarism of war that plagues mankind that has existed since we were groups of hunter/gatherers after the ice age? How can we send a rocket going 5 to 6 times the speed of a rifle bullet to a distant planet and land it comfortably or have it slowly dock to a space station and still have people dying senselessly in Ukraine? I believe the answer is simple. All through the ages wars were caused by greed and the thirst for power, causing the masses to suffer needlessly. I recently had a routine medical test and even though I feel great; I found out that medical corrections have to be made. When I was young, we did not have such detailed tests and persons of that generation would have had a shortened life without knowing they were in need of help. I now challenge the generations that follow to work towards trying to break away from such tendencies of mass destruction. We listen to officials about gas to electric cars to improve air quality then the next news segment shows thick black smoke of a large city that was just bombed destroying homes and livelihood of a country under siege. Let us now concentrate more on “Getting Along” with one another so we can far greater advances for mankind then we did in our generation. Take it from a person who was born in 1943 during a World War, saw wonderful advancements, witnessed America at its best (later part of 20th Century), we can make things better. How? By being concerned and caring for others. Help them in time of need and love your neighbors as yourself. My wish is that future generations will not have to constantly witness, as my generation has, needless strife and destruction and true peace can be achieved. It can be achieved! Dick Helm is a long time Quakertown area resident
and
regular
contributor
here
UBFP. Reach him at rbh9@verizon.net.
at
Trumbauersville Says Slow Down!
BY CHRISTOPHER BETZ
Following over a year of residents expressing concerns to Borough Council, discussions, deliberations with PennDOT, and more than a couple of traffic studies, maximum speed limits on Broad and Main Streets in Trumbauersville have been dropped from 35 to 25 miles per hour. Borough owned roads have always been 25 mph, but Broad and Main Streets are governed by PennDOT which decided decades ago that 35 mph was the right speed through town. Residents along Broad and Main Streets have long been upset about excessive speeding well over the limit as each street offers a nice stretch of flat straightaway to put the pedal to the metal. Numerous accidents with cars hitting each other, cars hitting parked cars, and even cars hitting houses have been logged over the past several years. Speeding on the other main road in town, Woodview Drive, has also been a problem in years past until Borough Council had two speed humps installed near the elementary school which seems to have helped to some extent with
excess speeds. The borough is not permitted to install traffic calming measures like speed humps on state roads like Main and Broad. Will the maximum speed reduction be effective? Trumbauersville Borough Council and residents certainly hope so. The borough depends on the Pennsylvania State Police, whose resources are spread pretty thin across the region, for coverage. Enforcement is an important part of the puzzle, one that Borough Council is in the midst of working on now. The state police have done a decent job in cracking down on reckless and impaired driving (I look out my window a lot) despite a deficit in resources in our area. In its deliberations with PennDOT, Trumbauersville has also successfully rallied to limit heavy truck traffic in the borough, citing significant damage to the road surface, noise, and safety issues in the nearly 100% residential neighborhoods lining both state roads. PennDOT will make this restriction evident to trucking companies via their communication resources.
Workers with Trumbauersville Public Works install new 25 mph speed limit signs on Broad and Main Streets. Actually, there is no public works department. In yellow is Mayor Jim Black and Councilman Mike George is loosening bolts with the torch. submitted photos
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2022
The answers to the puzzles on this page are found elsewhere in this issue.
Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.
“Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May, and summer’s lease hath all too short a date.” - William Shakespeare Have something to share with your community? Send it to us!
UBFP • 582 S. West End Blvd, Ste 2 • Quakertown, PA 18951 info@ubfp.org • fb.com/ubfreepress • www.ubfp.org
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Phlox Poppy Rose Sunflower Tulip Yarrow Zinnia
May 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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Kemmerer Places First in State SkillsUSA Automotive Refinishing Competition Julia Kemmerer, a senior in the Automotive Collision Technology program at Upper Bucks County Technical School, was awarded first place in Automotive Refinishing Technology at the Pennsylvania State SkillsUSA Competition. She is a First Honors student and has received the Outstanding Level I award
in her program. She is also a Cooperative Education student employed at Kirban Customs in Kintnersville, PA. This June, Julia advances to compete in the Automotive Refinishing Technology Contest at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference held in Atlanta, Georgia.
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local. A Quakertown Mother: Rebecca Burr Chapman I’ve done a lot of research into the Colonial Era history of Upper Bucks County. Modern search engines make it easier. A lot of interesting people emerged, some are even well rounded enough to get an image of them. Unfortunately, due to the culture of the time, few women are well documented. Some names become familiar, but very little is written about the wives and mothers. This month, when we celebrate all mothers, I thought I’d tell you about one who spent most of her life in Quakertown and personally lived through some of the most exciting and historical events in Upper Bucks history: Rebecca Burr Chapman. Rebecca Burr was born in Burlington, NJ in about 1748, to Joseph and Mary (Mullen) Burr. She had brothers William and Robert. She was a ‘cousin’ to Vice President Aaron Burr. In 1770, Rebecca married James Chapman and the couple moved to Richland Township where they lived and prospered over the next 50 years. Rebecca’s husband became one of the best known and most important citizens in Upper Bucks. As magistrate his signature appears on innumerable documents, deeds and certificates from 1771 through 1820. He, along with a dozen other members, was “read out” of Richland Friends Meeting for swearing loyalty oaths and offering too much support for the Revolutionary War effort. [They all were reinstated later--except for Elizabeth Potts who refused to give up her slaves].
James Chapman was Quaker and community leader and a founding director of Richland Library Company. He was appointed head tax assessor for Upper Bucks County when the House Tax (or Window Tax) was enacted in 1798, and held that position during the resulting Fries Rebellion. Chapman was the prime witness against the rebels their ensuing trial. Rebecca’s family, the Burrs, were early immigrants, Benjamin Burr settling in Connecticut in 1636. His son Henry became Quaker and, to participate in Penn’s Holy Experiment, relocated to the Delaware Valley (like many thousands of Puritan suppressed American colonists did). Henry Burr received “one-nineteenth part of the province of New Jersey” in 1682, which he took up in Northampton Township, Burlington County. The Burrs were industrious, prosperous and soon wealthy. In 1743, Henry’s grandson, Joseph Burr purchased 1,000 acres in “lower Richland”, Buck County, PA and, in 1745, an additional 540 acres in Springfield Township. Early Upper Bucks maps show the Richland Burr property straddling Morgan Creek and fronting on the east side Old Bethlehem Pike north of Paletown Road. Today, the railroad tracks from Perkasie to Quakertown traverse the old Burr plantation diagonally, from southeast northwest. Rebecca Burr was daughter to Joseph and sister to Robert and William. Robert relocated from Mount Holly to the family’s Richland property by 1760 and inherited it when his father died in 1767. Rebecca’s other brother, William, married Ann Edwards of Milford
and, shortly after, also moved to Upper Bucks. It’s assumed Rebecca met James Chapman while visiting her brothers and at Quaker Meetings. [She may have stayed in Richland during the Delaware Valley’s Yellow Fever epidemic, summer 1762]. James Chapman was born in Richland to John Chapman (a noted surveyor and land speculator), and Mary Twining in about 1740. With his family, he moved to Wrightstown in 1761. In 1770, almost immediately after marrying Rebecca Burr at Burlington he relocated to Richland. The couple had three children there: Jacob Abbot, b. 2-19-1773; Elizabeth, b. 9-8-1776; and Abigail, b. 12-311779. They were active Quakers. James and Rebecca settled first on Robert’s plantation then, in 1776, they took a mortgage on 18 adjacent acres and built a home. James soon became the prime legal resource and magistrate for the region—taking over for the retiring Samuel Foulke. In 1887, the Chapmans sold their 18 acres to John Lester and relocated to the Road to Milford Square, about a mile west of Quakertown.. On March 6, 1799, John Fries and other “Dutch”/German citizens began open revolt against the US Government. While making their rounds through Milford, one deputy tax assessor was scared off, one was forced into hiding and one was captured. Head assessor, James Chapman, galloped for home. He sent his wife, Rebecca, scurrying across the fields to a friendly “Englishman’s” house, barricaded himself in and armed with axes in anticipation of the mob’s attack. The Chapmans were reluctant national celebrities as James testified at the treason trials in Philadelphia. The severe retaliation perpetrated by Federal troops on Pennsylvania’s Germans while suppressing the insurrection— including midnight, burst-in arrests and a
public flogging for Reading’s newspaper editor—exacerbated regional ethnic tensions. The sentence to hang—soon commuted— and the aftermath may have persuaded the Chapmans to leave Milford. They resettled on the Burr Plantation soon after the Fries trial. [Historical facts: On July 11, 1804, after he returned home from The Duel with Hamilton, Aaron Burr had breakfast with an unexpected guest--his cousin. In August, Burr sailed from NY to Georgia where he spent some time with a friend. Next, he spent a few weeks time with his daughter and grandson in SC. He then returned north. By land or sea is unknown. Burr was seen in Philadelphia in September, but avoided NJ and NY where he was wanted for murder. He then disappeared until he returned to Washington in November to finish his term as Vice President] “Cousin’s-husband,” James Chapman was in New York City on July 11, 1804 and, while having breakfast with him, Chapman offered Aaron Burr any support he could provide. It was only a day’s carriage ride up Bethlehem Pike from Philadelphia to Quakertown. What better place, in a crisp and colorful October, to rest in peace and ponder one’s circumstance than on a quiet family farm in a relatively remote area that disliked John Adams? In 1820, James and Rebecca Chapman sold the Burr plantation in Richland and retired to their daughter, Elizabeth Iden, and her husband’s, farm in Mechanicsville, Buckingham Township. James was already ill and died in 1821. Rebecca Burr Chapman died in Buckingham a few years later. She is a Founding Mother of Quakertown that we should all remember. Jack Schick is a long time Quakertown area resident and regular contributor here at
UBFP. Reach him at sjckschc@aol.com
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2022
Bible Baptist Church Meets at HIghland Park Dining Hall 415 Highland Park Road Sellersville, PA 18960 484-523-3333 www.biblebaptistcares.org Pastor: Tom Harris Bible Study Hour 9:30 am, Morning Worship 10:30 am, Services interpreted for the deaf Christ Church United Church of Christ 101 N. Main Street Trumbauersville, PA 18970 215-538-0142 christchurch10@verizon.net www.christchurchisalive.org Pastor: David Heckler A friendly, welcoming church. Change fear into hope, doubt into faith. God is calling. Join us at 11am Sunday. Halleleujah! Christ’s Lutheran Church 1 Luther Lane Trumbauersville, PA 18970 215-536-3193 christselca@verizon.net www.christslutheran.com Interim Pastor: Rev. Susan Lang 9:00am Worship, 10:15 Sunday School Handicapped accessible, Family Friendly Church. Find us on Facebook! Church of the Incarnation 44 S. 8th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-3787 Ardores@verizon.net www.IncarnationQuakertown.org Pastor: Most Rev. Thomas J. Kleppinger Traditional worship, Biblical faith Sunday 10:30am, Holy Days as announced. Emmanuel Episcopal Church 560 S. Main Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-3040 emmanuelchurch11@yahoo.com www.emmanuelquakertown.org Sunday service at 10am, Visitors and new members always welcome!
BY REV DAVE HECKLER I recently heard a news segment that chronicled an oft-forgotten byproduct of concussions. Most of us are familiar with the usual symptoms (dizziness, nausea, confusion, difficulty focusing one’s eyes, etc.); but often, they’re accompanied by a strange sort of hearing loss: a difficulty distinguishing a detailed sound (like a friend’s speech) from its surrounding loud background noise. Sometimes, in fact, the background noise sounds far louder than it really is. Often it’s not recognized as a “hearing problem” because the ears themselves are fine— but it’s a hearing problem nonetheless. And to those afflicted with this problem, a great deal of life can get “lost in translation”. In most classic liturgical churches during the Easter season, the first readings for each Sunday come from the Biblical book called “The Acts of the Apostles” (“Acts” for short). And throughout the opening third of this book, there’s this refrain that pops up repeatedly in the apostles’ preaching: “This Jesus, whom you killed, God raised up— and of this, we’re witnesses!” It’s a striking phrase precisely because even weeks after Jesus’ death and
every 3rd Thursday 5:30pm Good News Church 424 Juniper Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4393 Pastor: David Markey, Jr. An alternative to the ultra-contemporary Sunday Worship and Children’s Church 10:30 am, Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm, World Evangelism Fellowship affiliate. Grace Bible Fellowship Church 1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N. Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-6096 grace@quakertownbfc.org www.quakertownbfc.org Sr. Pastor: Ron Kohl Sunday School for all ages. 10:10am Morning Worship, Small group meetings 2nd & 4th Sundays 6:30pm; Tues: Ladies Bible Study 9:45am; Wed: AWANA (2 yrs - 6th grade) & Teens for Christ 6:30pm, Adult prayer meeting 6:45pm Juniper Street Bible Church 317 Juniper Street Quakertown, PA 18951 267-373-9115 Pastor: Bob Stevenson www.juniperstreetbiblechurch.org Sunday worship 10am (also watch live on our Facebook page), Tuesday 7pm Bible study and prayer. We offer an invitation to you. Come and worship with us. Morning Star Fellowship 429 S. 9th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-529-6422 Pastors: John & Theresa Decker www.mstarqtown.org Sunday Services at 9 am and 11 am. Our cafe is open with free coffee. Children’s Ministries provided. Celebrate Recovery on Tuesdays at 7 pm. Student Ministries on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. Weekly Connections. For updates and schedule changes, check our website.
Palisades Community Bible Church 8730 Easton Road Revere, PA 18953 610-847-2637 secretary@pcbchurch.com www.pcbchurch.com Pastor: Rev. Corbin Seltzer, Jr. Sunday School (all ages) 9:30am, Sunday Morning Worship 10:30am, Tuesday Prayer Meeting 7:00pm, Men & Ladies’ Bible Studies - see website. “Walk by Faith.” II Cor. 5:7 Quakertown United Methodist Church 1875 Freier Road Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4992 barb@qumc.com www.qumc.com Pastor: Rev. Richard K. Brown II Sunday schedule: Worship 8:30 am, Sunday School 9:45 am, Worship 11 am Communion first Sunday of each month. Richland Friends Meeting (Quaker) Main St at Mill Rd & Park Ave Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-7555 Friends@RichlandQuakers.org www.RichlandQuakers.org Clerk: Jack H. Schick Non-Denominational guided meditations Wed, 7pm Sunday worship 10:30am “Absolute freedom of thought and worship is our faith and practice.” St. Isidore Roman Catholic Church 2545 West Pumping Station Rd Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536-4389 Pastor: Rev. Kenneth C. Brabazon izzyparoff@comcast.net www.stisidores.org Sunday Masses - 5:00pm Saturday evenings; 7:00am, 9:00am, & 11:00am on Sunday mornings; 1:00pm in Spanish Sunday afternoons St. John’s Lutheran Church 4 South Main Street • PO Box 459 Richlandtown, PA 18955 215-536-5027 Admin@stjohnsrpa.org www.stjohnsrpa.org Pastor: Rev Dr. David A Genszler In person worship service Sunday at 9:30 am, Watch our Worship Service anytime on stjohnsrpa.org/sermon or on Facebook. Activity Center Rentals Open, Capacity 125, call 215-536-5027 to book.
St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown 1565 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Spinnerstown 18968 215-536-0734 stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org Pastor: The Rev. Axel Kaegler Worship Service: 9:30 a.m. Service also will be live-streamed on Facebook (St. John’s Lutheran Church, Spinnerstown, PA) and video will be available on church website. Check website for updated COVID guidelines. St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley 910 Allentown Road, West Rockhill Twp 215-257-9643 stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com www.stjohnsridgevalley.com 8:30am Traditional - 10:15am w/praise band. Grape juice & gluten-free wafers available. Adult Forum 9:40, Handicapped accessible. All invited and welcome to Share the Joy! St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Applebachsville 837 Old Bethlehem Road, Quakertown 215-536-5789 stpaulsqtown@gmail.com www.stpaulsqtown.org Pastor: Rev. David Heckler We believe in sharing God’s love in joyful service. Come and see. All are welcome. St. Paul’s United Church of Christ 104 Green Street Sellersville, PA 18960 215-257-7268 Pastor: Rev. Trudy Irving stacey@stpaulsucc.net www.stpaulsucc.net Sunday Worship 10:15 in Sanctuary Springfield Mennonite Church 1905 Pleasant View Road Coopersburg PA 18036 267-999-1404 Pastor: Joseph Wames pastorjoe@springfieldmennonite.org www.springfieldmennonite.org Join us at 10:15a Sunday Mornings for a Blended Worship Service, Multi-generational, loving congregation. Biblically and Doctrinally Sound. Trinity Lutheran Church 102 N. Hellertown Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536.4345 www.trinityquakertown.org Pastor: Dayle Malloy 9 a.m. Traditional service, 11 a.m. Contemporary Service, 10: 15 a.m. Sunday School, Handicap accessible, Family Friendly, Dynamic Music Ministry, Living God’s Love for All
resurrection, Jesus’ apostles recognized that some critical implications of those events were already getting “lost in translation”, and so had to be reaffirmed: This Jesus, the Crucified Messiah (see 1 Corinthians 1.18-31) … This Jesus, not Jesus Barabbas (see Matthew 27.17), the violent insurrectionist whom many acclaimed as a “savior” and “son of the [Maccabean] fathers”. (Sound familiar?) Indeed, Matthew’s gospel makes it a point to have Pilate ask the crowd, “Which Jesus do you want me to release for you? Which “son” of which “father” do you prefer? This Jesus, who drove the religious gatekeepers crazy by embracing the outcasts, uplifting the most vulnerable, and eating with them, healing them, and loving them … This Jesus, whom we killed to keep the world safe for our death-dealing “normalcy” … “This Jesus, whom we killed, God raised up”— because Jesus’ resurrection wasn’t just a miraculous reanimation of one man or the guarantee that we’ll all have some kind of life after death; it was God’s vindication of Jesus’ entire way of life, and God’s rebuke of the
death-dealing ways of “the powers that be” of every age and human culture … The Easter season in general— and certainly this Easter season, which occurs at the same time as the Passover celebration and the culmination of Ramadan— is always a time of great celebration and feasting and joy and all the sound and music that come with such things. We rejoice in God’s victories over the enemies that enslave and break us down; and we cast our victorious Lord in the garb of conquering champions who pound on our enemies and pulverize them; and then we seek to pattern ourselves and our lives and our societies in the image of “Conquering Champion Jesus.” And once we do, it doesn’t take very long before we’re labeling our “enemies” God’s enemies and giving ourselves divine justification for slaughtering them, or at least making sure that they stay in “their place”— and the real Jesus gets “lost in translation”, confused with Jesus Barabbas. (What’s going on in Ukraine right now is just one example of this...) But the Good News of Easter calls us to be clear about whose victory we’re celebrating, and what that victory means not only for us, but for all our neighbors whose possibilities for rejoicing are constantly being muted by the struggles of living in an apparently “dogeat-dog” world. The Good News of Easter
challenges us to be absolutely clear about the Jesus whose death we’ve all been complicit in, and how we’ve all been complicit in that death— and then to grapple with what it means for us and for “the way things have always been” among us that the Creator of the Universe, the Source and Goal and Meaning of Life, has raised up and vindicated this Jesus and His way of living in a violence-laced world. And then the Good News of Easter— the Good News of God’s love for us in Christ Jesus— compels us to be witnesses, ambassadors of Christ and ministers of reconciliation, people who display the victory of the way of Jesus in our own lives by pouring ourselves out “for you”, for all our neighbors in need, and by defying the cheap and easy “ways of the fathers” that only add to the death toll of the world. “This Jesus, whom we killed, God raised up—and of that, we’re witnesses!” Can I get a witness, people? Can our community, even as we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection with all manner of festivity, be brimming and vibrantly alive with such witnesses? May it indeed be so, through Christ Jesus our Lord! . Dave Heckler is the pastor at St Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Applebachsville and Christ Church of the .United Church of Christ, Trumbauersville Reach him at prdaveheckler@gmail.com
First United Church of Christ 151 S. Fourth Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4447 info@firstUCC.net Facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertown Co-Pastors: Douglas & Joyce Donigian Associate Pastor: Jon Bauman Join us in person Sundays 9:15am Join us online at www.firstUCC.net. Community Lunch 2nd Saturday Drive through pickup 9am. Community Dinner 3rd Thursday 5:30pm (eat in).
Buckygrams: penguin, newspapers, zebra, yin and yang, panda, dice, soccer ball, Dalmatian, dominoes, skunk, piano keys, orca whale Hidden Message: “Warmer days are on the way.” Bucky Block: Look around you.
Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship
May 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
Students Get Hands-On Lessons in Stream Health and Plant Trees in Park
Students from the United Friends School in Quakertown worked hard alongside Quakertown Tree Tenders and Borough staff last month to plant trees in the park. The second and third graders had written persuasive letters to Courtney Burns, the Borough’s Parks Coordinator, to encourage the purchase and planting of the trees to protect the health of Licking Run Creek, which runs through Memorial Park. “I am so appreciative of the students’ efforts to raise awareness on the importance of having trees within our park system,” said Burns. “I am amazed by the passion these students have for environmental stewardship at such a young age.” Throughout the 2021-22 school year, the students made weekly treks to Licking Run Creek for lessons with Joan Pavlica, a Bucks County Penn State Extension Watershed Steward, on creek health. The students gathered information for a F.I.S.H. study – First Investigative Stream Health. They would test water acidity and temperature, study erosion, and check for wildlife, including macro-invertebrates such as crayfish as they investigated the creek’s health for the study. Their findings will be posted on citizen science sites that crowdsource vital information about our local watershed. “I was very impressed with the students’ interest and enthusiasm for this project,” said Pavlica. “This type of education is important for children. They put on their boots and got
right into the creek to get the answers they needed for the study.” The students learned about effective ways to protect the creek. Planting the trees should aid in reducing storm runoff. That information spurred the students to write their letters to the Borough. The students also raised $700 in funds for this project. Four Red Maples, three Hackberry trees, four Honey Locusts, and four London Plane trees were planted in park area adjacent to the new QuiNBy’s Playground on Mill Street. These 15 new trees will grow and mature into shade trees that will add to the appeal of the playground. Courtney Burns wants the students, and their teachers to know that their efforts are appreciated. She said, “On behalf of the Borough, we thank the United Friends School students for their commitment to their community and environment. We appreciate all their efforts to get trees planted in the park to protect Licking Run Creek!” Quakertown Borough Tree Tenders was established in Spring 2022. Tree Tenders is a program that was established through the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS). The Tree Tenders program works with volunteerbased community groups to plant trees. The program provides workshops on tree planting, care, and volunteer organization. Quakertown Borough Tree Tenders was one of eighty groups across the Greater Philadelphia Region to plant approximately 1500 trees this Spring.
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The Business Cycle
What has upswings and downturns, troughs, peaks, and plateaus? Though such terms could easily describe a roller coaster ride, they are also commonly used to describe the business cycle. The business cycle – also known as the economic cycle – refers to fluctuations in economic activity over several months or years. Tracking the cycle helps professionals forecast the direction of the economy. The National Bureau of Economic Research makes official declarations about the economic cycle based on specific factors, including the growth of the gross domestic product, household income, and employment rates. Recovery & Recession An upswing, or recovery, occurs when the economic indicators improve over time. A recession occurs when the same indicators go through a contraction. A particularly long or severe recession is referred to as a depression. Despite being called a cycle, it’s important to understand that the business cycle is not regular or even cyclical. Its’ pattern resembles the movement of waves, and those waves don’t consistently undulate at set, periodic intervals. Some recoveries have lasted several years, while others are measured in months. Recessions, too, can last for a number of years or be as short as a few months.
Moving in Waves
Stages of Cycle So, how should investors look at information about the business cycle? Investors who understand that the economy moves through periods of recovery and recession may have a better perspective on the overall cycle. During recovery, understanding whether the economy is at an early or late stage of the cycle may influence certain investment decisions. Conversely, during a recession, deciphering whether the economy is passing through a shallow or deep cycle may be influential as well. The business cycle will transition from recovery to recession – and recession to recovery – over several months. Understanding that the economy travels through cycles may help you put current business conditions in better perspective. This article was submitted by Bob Podraza of Robert James Investments at 1313 West Broad Street, Quakertown. He can be reached at 215-583-5013 or at robertjamesinvestments.com
The content above is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2022 FMG Suite.
Oscar Landis, Miles Malone, Everett Poole, Emmett Collins, Silas Thompson and plenty of their classmates from United Friends School work diligently to install 15 new shade trees in Quakertown’s Memorial Park on Earth Day. photo by jess myers
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2022
Spotted Lanternfly Update The Pennsylvania Agriculture Department has added 11 more counties to the Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) Quarantine. The addition of Adams, Armstrong, Bedford, Centre, Fulton, Indiana, Lycoming, Mercer, Snyder, Union and Washington Counties brings the number of quarantined counties to 45. In addition, SLF populations have been found in Ohio, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Maine, Delaware, Maryland,
How to Stop Your Dog from Jumping Dogs jump up to say hello. It never occurs to them that they might knock us over or ruin our clothes. Thankfully, consistent antijump training can quickly solve the problem for good. • When you come home open the door a teeny bit. If your dog jumps up, close the door. • Repeat until you can step through the door without your dog jumping up. If he jumps on you, turn away. If he keeps jumping, go back outside and start again. • Whenever your dog keeps four paws on the floor, praise and pet him. When your dog jumps on you inside the house, turn your back to him. • When he stops jumping, turn around to face him. If he jumps again, turn your back to him again. • Repeat until he stops jumping. Then pet and praise him. • If your dog keeps jumping up when you turn your back, walk away from him, ignoring him completely. If he follows and jumps again, give him a time-out. Either close a door between you or put him in his confinement area for a minute or two. (The point is not that
he is being bad, but that you won’t play when he jumps.) • When someone comes to the house, put your dog on leash before you open the door. • Open the door and invite the visitor in. If your dog jumps up, tell him, “oops” and walk him away from the visitor. Once he calms down, let him try again. • Leave the leash on your dog during the visit. You don’t have to hold it the entire time, but if at any point during the visit your dog jumps up on your visitor, grab the leash, tell your dog, “oops” and walk him away. • Remember to praise and reward him with pets and attention when he keeps four on the floor. • If your dog jumps up on someone approaching you on the street, tell him, “oops” and walk a few feet away. When he settles, try again, if the person is willing. Once your dog can keep four on the floor in the above situations (and you have trained sit), begin to ask for a sit before he says hello. With time and practice, your dog will automatically sit when he wants to greet people.. Submitted by Marion C. O’Neil CPDT-KA, CTDI, owner and instructor for Molasses Creek Dog Training, LLC, Quakertown. She www.molassescreekdogtraining.com
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Virginia, West Virginia, and Indiana. As the hatch season approaches (or may have already started by the time this article appears) this may be your last opportunity to find and destroy egg masses. Each mass you destroy can prevent 30 to 50 of these destructive insects from hatching. For the latest information on the Identification and management of the SLF visit Penn State Extensions Website: extension. psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly. Remember that a quarantine prohibits the movement of any SLF life stages including eggs, nymphs and adults. Since vacation season is upon us please inspect ALL vehicles when you leave a quarantined area. Since we know that the SLF can fly, but only in short distances, it is assumed that populations in other states must have been introduced by human movement. Source: PA Media,
media.pa.gov
3/25/2022.
Looking to add a Pollinator ‘Super Shrub’ to your garden this spring? Consider adding Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis). It boasts glossy dark green leaves that form whorls in late spring. From June to September Buttonbush puts on a display of 1” globe-shaped flowers . These tightly packed white or pinkish flowers are a magnet for pollinators, especially bees and butterflies. It is also an important food source for the Titan sphinx moth (Aellopos titan) and hydrangea sphinx moth (Darapsa versicolor). The Pollinator Program of the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation considers the Buttonbush to be of special value. Honey bees and native bees produce honey from the nectar and pollen. In winter
the flower heads become a red ball-shaped fruit of two-seeded nutlets which provide food for birds. In addition to its ecological value the Buttonbush loves wet soil making it a perfect option for a rain garden, and live staking for erosion control along streams and ponds. An added bonus is it adapts to a range of soil types and is moderately deer resistant. Pruning can be done in the spring if Buttonbush becomes unmanageable but is generally not necessary. Buttonbush has no serious insect or disease problem. Buttonbush can be grown as a multitrunk shrub or tree, reaching heights of 4 to 12 feet and widths of 4 to 8 feet. Don’t have the space? Consider the cultivar ‘Sugar Shack’ which only grows to 3 to 4 feet high and 3 to 4 feet wide. What other qualifications would you need in a Native ‘Super Shrub’?
Photo credit: Mary Alice Koeneke Resource: Buttonbush: The Native, Moisture-Loving Shrub. Updated May 24, 2021.
Haven’t signed up for a space in the Community Garden? What are you waiting for? If you are a new gardener the Master Gardeners of Bucks County will be offering science-based education and information upon request for your success. If you have a small vegetable garden but always yearned for more space this is a perfect opportunity. Growing your own healthy food is rewarding. You will get the added bonus of meeting new and experienced gardeners with whom to share your experiences. Fill out a Community Garden Application on the Borough’s Website or pick one up at Borough Hall. The Garden opens on May 9th. Our home Garden/Watershed hotline is open for the season! Trained Master Gardeners and Master Watershed Stewards are on staff Monday thru Friday, 9 to 12 and 1 to 4. You can call 267-483-2020 or email Bucksmg@psu.edu Penn State Extension Bucks County Email: BucksMG@psu.edu Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!
Brownlee Wins FBLA State Competition Avadar Brownlee of Quakertown Community High School won the state’s Future Business Leaders America state competition and qualified for nationals. Her triumph came in the Human Resources Management competition. “Avadar did a phenomenal job and I couldn’t be more proud of her accomplishment,” said Sandi Frisch, the faculty advisor to the FBLA club. “This is her first year with FBLA and she’s a dedicated student and great team member.” Earlier in the school year Avadar was named a Commended Student in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program. She scored 1500 on the SAT and has a GPA of 4.3.
The top four finishers at states advance to the national competition. While Avadar, a senior, is the lone QCHS student to do so, several others placed in the highly competitive tournament, which is judged by professionals in their various fields. Juniors Katie Muller and Kiersten Williams finished seventh in Graphic Design. Senior Khushi Vandra was ninth in Supply Chain Management, and senior Eliza Menser was 10th in Agribusiness. Eliza has qualified for states three years in a row. “I am so proud of our team,” Mrs. Frisch said. “Everyone really did excellent work and represented Quakertown and themselves very well.”.
Horsin’ Around 4H Club Takes Home Ribbons
Members of Bucks County’s Horsin’ Around 4H Club participated in the Horse Bowl, a contest of horse knowledge against other young equine aficionados, and took home some ribbons! The event is held annually. Senior team winners (top) are 1st place Zoe, 2nd Nick, 3rd Jackie, and 4th Mya. Junior team champions (bottom) are 1st Dylann, 2nd Abby and 3rd Alex! submitted photos
May 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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Employment Opportunities
Spor’s General Store - Hiring various positions, ages 15 & up. bspor@sporsgeneralstore.com or stop in the store at 22 W. Broad Street,Trumbauersville
in Training, Community Pool Lifeguards. CIT is volunteer position, others start at $11/ hr. quakertownrec.com 267372-7275, amiller@quakertown.org
New Vitae Wellness & Recovery Seeking PCA/MT, Cooks, Drivers, Maintenance Asst at our Quakertown locations. Signon bonus up to $1,000! Shift differential for 2nd & 3rd shift! Call 610-928-5246 or apply at NewVitaeWellness.com/careers.
St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown PA - Church Secretary position at welcoming church in Quakertown area; 12 hours a week at $12 an hour. Additional hours possible during church’s busy seasons; days/times negotiable. Duties include weekly preparation of church bulletins and reports, updating social media, producing monthly newsletter, answering phones, and other administrative tasks. Skill with Microsoft Office, Google Drive and common social media platforms required. Exemplary organizational, administrative and communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work as part of a team. Two professional references needed. Send inquiry and resume stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com.
Gutter Guys - Now Hiring Full Time Positions for Installers and Estimators. Call 215-996-9976 The Proper Brewing Co - Hiring Dishwasher, Host, Cooks, and Bartender. Must be available weekends. Contact: kris@ theproperbrewing.com or stop in at 117 W. Broad Street,Quakertown Quakertown Parks & Rec - K.I.D.S. Camp Counselors, Counselors
American Legion Post 242 Update When I read about or watch on TV the willingness of the people of Ukraine to take up arms to preserve and defend their country and their way of life, it reminds me of our Veterans and the current active duty soldiers of the U.S. When our homeland, way of life, and rights were and are threatened by other nations - our armed forces are there 24/7 to defend us. On Monday, May 30th, 2022 we ask you to take time out away from picnics and get-togethers to honor “Those who gave their All”, Past Veterans, and current active members of the Armed Forces by attending our annual Parade and Memorial Service. This year we are honored to have a new name added (Michael Kostic) of a veteran of World War II who lost his life with 14 other Navy men while on a Merchant Vessel lost in the Atlantic Ocean. Charles Wismer (Adjutant) mentioned that the tickets for the Veterans Drawing to be held on June 25th at the Post have been sent out. Our post Youth Drawing was once again a great success; let this success continue for our Veterans. As mentioned last month, these funds are put to good use for both programs and we need your continued support. I am surprised that more ticket holders don’t come out to enjoy an evening of sharing food and fellowship with other legion members as we take part in actually drawing the numbers for the drawing. They sure put out a nice
spread of food for ticket holders! Remember we are now “smoke free.” Come on out and maybe hear your name drawn as a winner! He also mentioned that we are at about 95% renewal of membership. Dig through that pile of “To pay later” envelopes and send in your dues to help reach that 100% renewal goal. PARADE and SERVICE instructions: The parade forms at 9th & Park Avenue leaving promptly at 9:00 AM, travels North on 9th Street to Broad Street, then east on Broad Street to 4th Street. At Mill Street it turns left and ends at the Memorial across from the pool and next to the new playground. The Memorial Day Services will start promptly at 10:00 AM. These services are important for honoring those who sacrificed so much, some giving their all. Out of respect to the flag of our nation and those who have given their all, we encourage all (for those who are able) to kindly stand, if seated, as Old Glory passes you by in the parade. Remember, in the near future the Memorial will be taking on a brand new appearance also. This year’s speaker is a native from the area who is retired from the Navy as one of the Admiral ranks and proudly I mention is one of the first few women who have attained that rank. Come out to hear her impressive message and to honor those who have served! ~ For God & Country,Dick Helm
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Yipee it’s warming up! I am going to make my human take me to Arts Alive this year. I need to greet my fans . Remember all you dog lovers to take water for your dogs when you walk them and to keep us off of hot pavement. Humans cool their heads off to make themselves feel cooler. Dogs cool their feet and bellies. How cool would you feel if your head was in an oven even though the rest of you wasn’t? I am walking better these days and don’t need pain meds every day and completed my cold laser treatments. I haven’t weighed in a few weeks I will give an update on THAT issue next month. ~ Love Brandy
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