Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2024

Did you receive this issue of the Upper Bucks Free Press in your mailbox? Not everyone did! We mail copies to different neighborhoods across the area to build awareness of our publication. See the list to the right to find out where you can pick up next month’s edition in your neck of the woods.

Antiques ~ Baked Goods ~ Fresh Meats ~ Discount Groceries ~ Clothing ~ Jewelry ~ Fresh Produce ~ Coin Shop ~ and lots more!

ONGOING:

Annual Spring Craft Show – Sat., 5/4, 11 am to Sun., 5/5, 4 pm. 80+Local Vendors featuring original artwork, jewelry, clothing, crochet and knit items, woodworking, bath & body, totes/purses, floral/wreaths & so much more! Celebrate Mom with a handmade gift for Mother's Day – Sat., 5/4, 9 am-1 pm. Event Room #201. Vendors selling slot cars, accessories, and literature. Spring Slot Car Show – Sun., 5/12 ( ) Mommy & Me Princess Tea Party SOLD OUT – Fridays – 5/17, 5/24, &, 5/31. 6:30 pm-9 pm. Event Room #201. Learn the dances that will keep you on Line Dancing the floor with your hosts, Shotgun Jenny & Joanie. Lessons and open dancing. Beginners to pros, everyone is welcome! – Sat., 5/25. 6:30 pm Bell Time. Event Room #201. Tickets are $25 Front Row, or $20 General Admission

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

May 3 to May 19 – Pottstown Area Juried Arts Show at Schwenkfelder Heritage Center, 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. Tue-Wed-ThuFri-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 1pm-4pm. FMI: 215-679-3103 or email alyssa@schwenkfelder. com

April 28 to May 26

48th Bucks County Designer House & Gardens at Sycamore Lane Farm, 1421 Rt 113, Perkasie. $45/door, $40/seniors 62+. FMI: BucksCountyDesignerHouse.org or 215-345-2191

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

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

May 3

Order Hoagies by today for pickup May 13 at Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 N Main St.

To order call Karen at 267-372-1404

“Born Free” movie matinee is free every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded container are welcome. FMI 215-257-9718

May 4

Free Community Breakfast 7am-11am at Upper Milford Mennonite, 6450 Kings Hwy South, Zionsville. Bake Sale proceeds, freewill offering & donated canned goods benefit Food Pantry. FMI ummcoutreach24@gmail.com

Richland Twp Police Dept ‘Drug Takeback’ 10am-2pm, r/s at Police Dept, 229 California Rd, Quakertown. Drug Takeback Bin located in lobby. Bin is available Mon-Fri from 8:30am-4:30pm. NO syringes or inhalers!

Indoor Flea Market/Craft Show/Soup Sale 10am-2pm at Tylersport Fire Co Aux, 125 Ridge Rd, Telford. 8’ Tables $25, Soup $10/ qt. Chicken Noodle, Vegetable, Split Pea. Call 215-257-5900 ext 7. Leave name & message, we’ll call back.

7th Annual Locally Grown Showcase 10am-3pm at Upper Salford Park, 559 Salford Station Rd, Schwenksville. Local food/farm products, crafts/artists, raffles, kids’ fun, music, entertainment, food trucks. r/d June 1. STBPW.ORG

Create a Spring Wreath by Just One More Plant at 1pm, Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 N Main St. Advance tickets only. $55 includes all supplies. Must have been purchased by April 19. Contact Ecarr58@gmail.com

Flint Hill Farm Spring Open House 10am4pm at 1922 Flint Hill Rd, Coopersburg. $5 parking. Photos w/animals, face painting, pony rides, petting zoo, food, tractor rides, live music, demos, horseshoe painting, more. 610-838-2928

Spring Slot Car Show 9am-1pm in Event Rm #201. Vendors selling cars, accessories & literature. Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd.

“DJ AD Cool” 11am-2pm. Music on the Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Outdoor Craft/Vendor Event 9am-2pm at Coopersburg Moravian Church, 234 S Main St, Coopersburg. Lots of homemade goods, vendors, food and baked goods.

Singles/Couples Dance with DJ Gary Wiley at Forrest Lodge, 2118 Old Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville. $12/admission includes snacks, door prizes. Cash Bar. Open 6pm, Dance is 7pm-10pm. Helen 215-453-9841

May 4 & 5

Mother’s Day Fashion Show of Costumes & Afternoon Tea, 12noon-4pm at DCP Theatre, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Tea/Fashion show $40, Fashion Show only $15. Advance tickets only! Dcptheatre.org/mother-s-day-fashion-show-tea Spring Craft Show 11am to 4pm both days. 80+ vendors with art, jewelry, clothing, woodworking, totes, purses and much

more. Celebrate Mom with homemade gifts. Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. May 5

Mother’s Day Gift Market 12noon-4pm at Trolley Barn, 108 E Broad St, Rte 313, Quakertown. Local crafters, flowers and food.

“Double Trouble” Elvis Tribute w/Jeff Krick Sr & Jr at Upper Bucks Activity Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown. $30/ pp includes light refreshments. Open 1:30pm, Show 2pm-4pm. Tickets will sell fast! 215-512-7244 or 215-536-3066

Sportsman’s Bingo at Sellersville Fire Dept, 2 N Main St. Tickets online only at sellersvillefd.com. $60. $75 at door if seats available. Open 11:30am, games 1pm. Kitchen open for burgers, hot dogs, sodas, snacks.

‘One Room Schoolhouses’ Open House 1:30pm-4pm, presentation at 2pm. Hear tales of students who attended these schools w/one teacher doing eight grades at once. Strassburger Farmstead, 407 Keystone Dr & Bethlehem Pk, Sellersville. 267-614-9174

First PA Mustang Club Car Show. 4-7pm. Country Square Shopping Center, Route 309, Quakertown. Trophies, 50/50 drawing. Proceeds benefit local charities. Gary 610-737-6372, Woody 610-965-9032

May 7

Art Play Tuesdays 11:30am at Quakertown Library on Mill St. For ages 3-5. No registration. Different materials each week. Also 5/14, 5/21 & 5/28.

“Eric & Christopher: Our History” by Christopher Kline. Perkasie Historical Society Dinner Meeting 6:30pm at St. Stephen’s UCC, 110 N 6th St, Perkasie. $15/dinner. Reserve: 215-257-9624. Perkasiehistory.org

May 8

Member of Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick's office will be at 10 S Third Street, Quakertown to answer questions about veterans' services, IRS, Social Security, etc. from 2pm-4pm

May 9

Quakertown High School’s 2nd Annual Job Fair 12noon-2:30pm at High School Gymnasium, 600 Park Ave. FREE event and refreshments served. For info on signing up call 215-529-2060

May 10

“Gorillas in the Mist” movie matinee is free every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded container are welcome. FMI 215-257-9718

Flower/Plant Bingo, open 5:30pm, games 7pm at Springtown Firehouse, Food available. $25/adv, $30/door. Tickets: 610-346-8383

Designer Bag Bingo. West End Fire Co, 1319 Park Ave, Quakertown. Doors open 6pm, games start at 7pm. $35 in adv., $40 at door. Details: Quakertown.RC@gmail.com or 267-375-9942. Benefits programs of the Quakertown Rotary Club

May 11

Quakertown Bike Rodeo for kids 6 to 12 years old. Free at Quakertown Pool Parking Lot, 601 W Mill St. Safety education, skills

course, etc. Refreshments, games, prizes, more. Bicycle Drawing! Quakertown.org/ bikerodeo

‘Paint & Find the Fairy Doors’ 12noon2pm at the Boy Scout Cabin, Lake Lenape, Sellersville. There are prizes for finding all the fairy doors. This is a Free Event by Sellersville Parks & Recreation Board.

Last Chance Ranch Fundraiser at Earl-Bowl Lanes, 251 N West End Blvd, Quakertown- 2 times to choose from: 5pm-7pm or 8pm-10pm. $25/person. Bake Sale, DJ Will, more. Must purchase in adv. denise@lastchanceranch.org

East Penn Modifiers Car, Truck, Big Rig & Motorcycle Show 9am-2pm at Landis Supermarket in Telford. Registration $15/ vehicle. Spectators free. Trophies awarded. R/D May 18.

‘PatchFest’ free concert 12noon-7pm, Perkasie Patchwork Coffeehouse, 320 W Chestnut St. Perkasie. 8 different performances throughout the day. Snacks available. FMI: PerkMenno.net or 215-257-3117

Bucks-Mont BONZEROO Music Fest in multiple communities including Quakertown, Sellersville & Souderton, Join us in a day of music, fun & comradery. More info to come. Keep an eye on FB for new information.

Screaming Goat Farm Spring Open House 10am-2pm at 1701 Snyder Rd, Green Lane. Feed goats, Local vendors, Plant sale, Tractor rides, Yard games, more. No admission fees.

“Rotten Fruit” 11am-1pm. Music on the Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd.

Spring Plant, Bake & Soup Sale 9am-3pm at Passer Community Center, 2580 Richlandtown Pike, Coopersburg. Cash and check only. No early birds. FMI Kristin 610-248-2843

Community Yard Sale/Open House 9am2pm. Rain date May 18. St. Peter’s Covenant, 1006 Hilltown Pike, Hilltown Township. FMI 267-718-0903

Pearl S Buck portrayed by Susie Woodland 1pm at St. Andrew’s Lutheran, 20 Dill Ave, Perkasie. $10 donation includes refreshments & dessert. Also raffle baskets and 50/50. Tickets/info: 215-257-6184

Flea Market 8am-2pm r/s. Haycock Community Center, 1014 Old Bethlehem Rd, Quakertown. 267-733-8492 or haycockfire.org

Flea Market 8am-1pm at Grace UMC, 235 S Main St, Telford

May 12 Mother’s Day

“Shep & Jim” 10am-2pm. Music on the Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd.

May 14

Spring Door Décor! 6:30pm-8:30pm (rescheduled from 4/9) by The Art Oasis at The Proper, 117 W Broad St, Quakertown. FMI 267-245-5938. Must pre-register at www.theartoasis.net/proper-brewing

May 17

3rd Fridays from May to October. Friends gather to shop & enjoy good music & food along Main St in Souderton. Local crafters, Kid’s Zone, art galleries open late. Well behaved, leashed dogs welcome. 3rdFri.com

“National Velvet” movie matinee is free every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded container are welcome. FMI 215-257-9718

Line Dancing on Fridays 6:30pm-9pm in Event Rm #201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Shotgun Jenny & Joanie. Lessons and open dancing. Beginners to pros, all are welcome. Also 5/24 and 5/31. Free Shredding Event 10am-12noon at Pennridge Community Center, 146 E Main St, Perkasie. Limit 5 boxes or bags, no folders with metal, no paperclips. Monetary donations are appreciated.

May 18

Arts Alive! 10am-4pm on Broad St, Downtown Quakertown. Live entertainment, Food court, Wine/beer tasting area, Children’s courtyard fun, Train rides, Alpaca, more. Rain/date May 19. quakertownalive.com

FREE Veterans Seminar 10:45am at American Legion Post 242 at 610 E Broad St, Quakertown. Learn important info that can impact you and family. Lunch provided. Registration required: Karen 610-986-2265 or kspencer6568@gmail.com

“Saluting Our Armed Forces” exhibit featuring military items from our collection at Perkasie Historical Society Museum, 513 W Walnut St. Museum is open 12noon-4pm. perkasiehistory.org

Household Hazardous Waste Collection 8:30am-2pm, rain/shine at Upper Bucks Technical School, 3115 Ridge Rd, Perkasie. Buckscounty.gov/recycling or 215-345-3400 for what you can or cannot bring to the event. 31st Camp Men-o-lan Summerfest fundraiser 9am-2pm. Auction, great food, & fun activities. Summer Camp Meet & Greet, Inflatables, Animal Show, Balloon Guy, Games, Hay Ride. FMI beth@menolan.org or kim@menolan.org Amy’s Ride/Run/Walk to fight pancreatic cancer, 6am-10am at The Park at 4th, 501 W Mill St, Quakertown. Choose an option and register: amysriderunwalk.com as individual, join a team or make your own team. FMI: 610-737-6632

Bowl-A-Thon 8:30 pm - 10:30 pm. Quakertown HS Bowling Team may still have some lanes open at Earl Bowl Lanes in Quakertown. Contact: Steve at stevebowla.300@yahoo.com or Kirsten at kmneam673@msn.com to register.

First Annual ‘Pins for Senior Pups’ Bowling Event, 12noon-3pm at Earl Bowl Lanes, 390 Morwood Rd, Telford. $20 gets 3 hours of bowling, shoe rental & entry for door prize. Food available for purchase. FMI: 1-267-897-5289.

“GYP” 11am-1pm. Music on the Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd.

May 19

“The Gabe Stillman Band” blues & jazz. Summer Concerts at Dimmick Park, 570 Durham St, Hellertown. Food truck, Dessert truck, Adult beverages for 21+ crowd. FMI hellertownborough.org/parks-recreation/ “David Funke” 12noon-2pm. Music on the Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd.

May 20

‘Swing for Hope’ Golf Outing at Indian Valley Country Club. Golf, networking, lunch, hors d’ouevres and awards ceremony. FMI/register: https://bit.ly/4ccWNGC or 215-723-9472

Keystone Quilters meets 7pm at St. John’s Lutheran Activity Center, 25 First Ave, Richlandtown. Guest fee $10. Program: Longarm Quilting. FMI: suewilseydesigns15@gmail.com

Free Take-out Dinner at Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. Pick-up 5:30pm. 215-249-3689 if you need more than 4 meals.

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

May 23

Free Senior Expo 10am-12noon at Schnecksville Fire Co, 4550 Old Packhouse Rd, Schnecksville. Citizens from 16th Senate District invited to join Sen. J. Coleman at banquet hall. Prizes, health screenings, food, info, etc. FMI 484-861-4964

May 24

“The Birds” movie matinee is free every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded container are welcome. FMI 215-257-9718

May 25

Sellersvillle’s 150th Anniversary and Memorial Day Parade. Starts 10am on Diamond St and ends at Lake Lenape Park near the Walnut St/Boy Scout Cabin. Memorial Service & Sesquicentennial Service begins 11:15am at monument off Main St. Flea Market/Bake Sale 8am-2pm at Upper Bucks Activity Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown. Kitchen will be open until 1pm. Tables/$15 each. Inside event! FMI Sara 215-536-3066.

“Think of 3” (time tbd) Music on the Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd.

WWWA Wrestling 6:30pm Bell Time. Event Rm #201. Tickets: $25/front row, $20/general admission. Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd.

Quakertown Lions Hoagie Sale. Preorder by 5/25 for pickup between 9:30 and 11am June 1 at QNB Bank 3rd Street location in Quakertown. Italian or Turkey made fresh day of sale. $6.00. Call Jim at 215-536-1983 to order.

May 26

“DJ AD Cool” 11am-2pm. Music on the Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd.

Good Time Motorvators 32nd Lake Lenape Jamboree 9am-12noon at 555 Constitution Ave, Perkasie. $20/pre-register, $25/day of show. r/d May 27. Awards, trophies, vendors, food, music. FMI goodtimemotorvators.com

May 27 MeMorial Day

May 29

Telford Night Market Wednesdays thru August 28, 5:30pm-8:30pm, Telford Train Station, Penn Ave & Main St. Music, food trucks, kids’ fun, brewers, wineries, more. Vendors: food, produce, gifts, art. FMI Telfordhappenings@gmail.com

Teen Volunteer Training at Quakertown Library on Mill St. Looking for Summer Quest volunteers ages 12-17 who can commit to at least 2 hours a week from 6/15 to 8/10. May 31

Order Hoagies by today for pickup June 10 at Trumbauersville Fire Co. To order call Karen at 267-372-1404

“The Maltese Falcon” movie matinee is free every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library,

491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded container are welcome. FMI 215-257-9718

May 31 to June 1

Penn Dry Goods Market, Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-3pm at Schwenkfelder Heritage Center, 105 Seminar St, Pennsburg. Textile-focused antiques & vintage show. $9/ticket. FMI 215-679-3103 or alyssa@schwenkfelder.com

May 31 to June 2

“The Wisdom of Eve”-live theater at DCP Theater, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Fri/Sat at 8pm, Sun at 2pm. FMI: 215-234-0966 or dcptheatre.org/wisdom-of-eve

June 1

30th Quakertown Pet Fair 10am-3pm at 2250 N Old Bethlehem Pike, Quakertown. Refreshments, music, vendors, gifts, crafts, kids korner, petting zoo, demos, more. Tour our boarding and specialty centers. Quakertownvetclinic.com

‘Dog Days of Summer’ 12noon-4pm at The Park at 4th in Quakertown. Vendors, entertainment, food, kids zone, demos, yappy hour, raffles. Benefits Quakertown Police Dept K9 Unit.

Flea Market/Community Yard Sale 8am2pm by Perkasie Owls Club. Book spot now. $10/spot, $15/spot & small table, $20/spot & large table. Text request to 215-771-2055. FMI 215-257-2650

Trumbauersville Community Day & Fireworks, Veterans Park. 3 pm til after dark. Games, Food, Fire Engines, Crafts, and more! Info: trumbauersvilleboro.org

June 2

Pride of Quakertown Zumba Fundraiser 2pm-3:30pm at Univest Performance Center in Quakertown. Instructors, music, 50/50 raffle. No registration, $15 donation requested.

June 4

Membership Picnic at the Carousel. Perkasie Historical Society. perkasiehistory.org

June 5

Telford Night Market Wednesdays thru August 28, 5:30pm-8:30pm, Telford Train Station, Penn Ave & Main St. Music, food trucks, kids’ fun, brewers, wineries, more. Vendors: food, produce, gifts, art. FMI Telfordhappenings.com Also 6/12, 6/19, 6/26

June 6 to 9

“The Wisdom of Eve”-live theater at DCP Theater, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Thu/Fri/Sat at 8pm, Sun at 2pm. FMI: 215-234-0966 or dcptheatre.org/wisdom-of-eve

June 7

“Dr. Zhivago” movie matinee is free every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded container are welcome. FMI 215-257-9718

Strawberry Festival

June 15 • 4 - 8 pm

Quakertown Band performs at 6 pm

Bounce House • Kids Games • Hamburgers • Hot Dogs Hamburger BBQ • French Fries • Strawberries • Ice Cream Strawberry Pie • Homemade Cakes • and More!

Ventriloquist Show by Marian And Friends

Silent Auction! Special items include Above Ground Pool & Flat Screen TV!

F irst UCC • 4th & Park Ave. • Quakertown

Milford T-Force Works to Improve Milford Township Parks

Local resident and community native plant advocate Jerry Hertz is not a man to let the grass grow under his feet. When he noticed that Milford Township parks could use a helping hand he jumped right in to help. After meeting with local officials, Jerry is now a member of the

Unami Park and are now clearing space in Molasses Creek Park for an arboretum. The nascent arboretum sits on land adjacent to the walking trail in the park. Jerry foresees an restful educational area featuring native plants and trees with a walking trail and artwork.

Last Chance Ranch Celebrates 25 Years at Annual Gala Fundraiser

Local animal rescue Last Chance Ranch rolled out the red carpet for almost two hundred people and a few adoptable animals last month for their 11th Annual Tails and Ties Rescue Gala. This yearly event serves as an important fundraiser for the non-profit rescue with this year’s event raising $101,000. The rescue is also celebrating their 25th year anniversary this year.

25 Years of Service to Trumbauersville Fire Co.

Executive Director Jackie Burke said, “Our annual gala is our largest fundraiser of the year. It raises nearly 10% of our annual revenue in one single event. This event helps fund ongoing medical care, replenishes specific funds, like our ‘Save A Horse From Slaughter’ Fund and helps us put money aside for the slower summer months when donations are down.” Last Chance Ranch is solely supported by the generosity of the public.

The non-profit also operates a thrift store located at 93 S. West End Blvd., Quakertown.

Nestled on 35-acres at 9 Beck Rd., just outside of Richlandtown, the Last Chance Ranch provides a safe and secure refuge for abused, unwanted and neglected animals to help them find new homes. The ranch also offers many familyfriendly programs such as adult and child riding lessons, birthday parties, guided tours, dog obedience and grooming and adoptions by appointment.

Approximately 1200 animals annually find new homes through Last Chance Ranch.

For information on adopting animals or volunteering at their facility, please visit Last Chance Ranch’s website: LastChanceRanch.org.

Arrrr you ready for

YMCA Launches Raise Up Our Youth Campaign to Expand Branch

YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties launched the Raise Up Our Youth campaign on April 26 to expand space and programs at the Quakertown branch. The Y is raising $3.5 million to build an expanded gymnastics center, a multi-sport field house, and add a gymnasium and indoor walking track.

The Raise Up Our Youth campaign, focused primarily on expanding and updating popular youth spaces, aims to create more opportunities for community youth and teens to come together at the Y. The $3.5 million campaign will provide the resources for the facility improvements, and help remove barriers to community participation by providing financial assistance to all who qualify.

“Among the goals of the campaign and expansion are to create a destination for the youth in the Upper Bucks community,” explained Allyson Fox, VP of operations for the Upper Bucks region of YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties. “The YMCA in Quakertown has always been a place for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together. We are now expanding upon that, as well as making the statement that the Y is here for the youth of our community, who need a hub for connection, health and wellness in their lives.”

Lack of healthy social connection has exacerbated a youth mental health crisis, with social media leading many down an antisocial, sometimes dangerous path. In the 2021 Pennsylvania Youth Survey, 37.4% of students in Bucks County ages 11-18 reported “feeling sad or depressed

MOST days in the past 12 months.”

Expanding the gymnastics center from 6,000 to 13,000 square feet will allow the Y to accommodate hundreds of children currently on waitlists for gymnastics classes, programs and teams. The plan is to construct the new gymnastics center within a currently unused space at the branch, which frees up the full-size basketball gym where the gymnastics center currently resides. The second gym provides the opportunity to expand youth/ adult basketball leagues and classes, adds three new pickleball courts and additional space for adult volleyball. Having a second gym also allows the Y to foster relationships with local sports teams who often need indoor athletic space to rent for training and tournaments.

In addition to the renovation of the gymnastics center, basketball courts and field house, the campaign will also fund the expansion of community impact programs in the Upper Bucks region. YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties serves Veterans, cancer survivors, pre-diabetics, seniors, individuals with differing abilities, and adults recovering from mental illness in uniquely planned sessions led by skilled wellness professionals. Expanding reach in Quakertown will help the Y provide more assistance to those in need, along with volunteer opportunities for those who want to get involved.

To learn more about the Raise Up Our Youth campaign, please visit the Quakertown branch, the Raise Up Our Youth webpage, or email Angela Jacobsen, ajacobsen@ymcabhc.org.

Jerry Hertz, Catherine "Kit" Collins, Darlene McGarrity, Michael Felix, and Phoebe Moore (not pictured) did a wonderful job of cleaning up some of the park land in Milford Twp. submitted photo

The LCR Gala committee: (back) Katie Exas, Meg Daly Co-Chair, Sam Tiedeken, Dawn Murphy, Donna Jucewicz (front) Mary Gladwell, Jackie Burke Chair, Denise Alberino., Diane Burke. Co-Chair. ot pictured: Joanna Silver, & Cristina Argall photo by michele buono

(left-right) lan Mallery, State Representative Craig Staats, Trumbauersville Fire Company President Marilyn Bobb. submitted photo

Why Is My House Not Selling? Top Reasons and Their Solutions

The housing market is booming, but if your house has been on the market for a while, you’re probably sitting back wondering, “Why isn’t mine selling?” Every home is different, and some homes might just take a little longer to sell than others in the home selling process.

Whether you’re getting showings or not, if your house isn’t selling, there are plenty of potential reasons.

Why Is a House Not Selling a Problem?

Once you have decided to sell your home, it’s problematic when it won’t sell. If a home won’t sell, there is the possibility of delaying a seller’s moving timeline, increasing the chances of selling for a lower asking price, and increasing the chances buyers will assume something is wrong with the house. In general, your best chance at getting a strong sales price for your home requires it to sell fairly quickly.

Top Reasons Why Your House Isn’t Selling and What to Do About It

Here are some of the top reasons why your home is not selling and what to do about it.

1. Your House Is Overpriced

Buyer interest in your home is highest when it first comes on the market. That’s why it’s so important to start with the right price on day one. You may love your house, and you may have spent a lot of time and money on renovations, but if no one is interested, it means you probably have it listed too high. If you overprice your house, buyers may just raise an eyebrow and move on to the next listing without even coming for a showing.

Your agent should prepare a thorough comparative market analysis (CMA) and take you through it to come up with the best asking price for your home. A CMA compares the price of your home to other, similar homes in the area, to determine a price. It can be easy to think your home is worth more but try not to let sentimental value color your judgment. Your home’s true value is whatever a buyer is willing to pay for it. What To Do

It is best to price your home to sell from the beginning. Interest can always cause the price to go up if you price it a little lower. However, if your home is already listed, you might need to lower your listing price. Speak with your real estate agent to determine the best strategy for decreasing the price and the best price to lower it to.

2. You’re Using Low-Quality Photography

Professional real estate photography is a basic requirement for a house listing. Because most sellers use photographers, it has become an expectation and anything less will stand out as unprofessional.

Low-quality photos can easily lead to a house not selling. Your home’s first showing happens online. It is essential to have clear, bright, quality photos on your home’s listing.

What To Do

So how can you up your photo game and capture more buyer interest? Consider hiring a pro – usually, it’s only a couple hundred bucks. Professional real estate photographers know how to capture your home in its best light and are well worth the investment.

3. You’re Not Marketing the House

Stick a sign on the lawn, and your home is as good as sold, right? Not so much. There are a lot of things a good listing agent can do to market your home to more potential buyers, like posting about it on social media or featuring it on their blog.

Additionally, agents who have a strong professional network will be familiar with buyer’s agents in your area. They can reach out to them proactively and see if they have any clients looking for homes like yours, instead of waiting for somebody to call the number on your sign.

What To Do

If you think that your home is not being marketed well, that is a great discussion to have with your listing agent. It is possible that there is more that could be done to promote your listing.

3. Your Home Is in Poor Condition

Unless your home is being marketed as an “as-is” fixer-upper, most buyers expect a home to be in decent to great condition. If your home appears to be in less than great condition, you are going to have to wait longer to find a buyer who is willing to make updates, or you can discount the price accordingly.

What To Do

Small changes can go a long way to make your home appear to be in better condition. Some sellers just need to reorganize and declutter to make theirs look more attractive to buyers. Focus on anything that looks very dated, dirty or in disrepair. Removing any eyesores can go a long way toward helping buyers envision themselves in the space.

If there are large issues with the condition of your home and major repairs or renovations are needed, that can get trickier. If making the

repair isn’t an option for you, the best thing to do is just be realistic about your asking price and go into negotiations with the right mindset.

4. You Didn’t Properly Stage Your House

Home staging is the process of editing your home’s decor to make it appeal to as many buyers as possible. Poor home staging can lead to a house not selling. This is usually when a home feels very cluttered, dirty or dated to potential buyers.

What To Do

You can pay a professional to stage your home for you, but there are also steps that you can take on your own, for free. The most important step is decluttering and removing excess decor whenever possible. The next step is doing a deep clean so your home looks cared for and inviting.

Finally, you could work to remove any furniture or decor that feels crowded, oversized, dark or dated. This will help to lighten and brighten up the space and help buyers to better picture themselves living in the home. And don’t forget to take down some of the most personal items so that potential buyers can see themselves in the home.

5. You Overimproved or Overpersonalized

There are home improvements that add value and home improvements that reduce home value. If you have invested a ton of money into renovating your home and priced it accordingly, you might have overpriced the home. The truth is, not all renovations pay for themselves with a return on investment. A common example of this is swimming pools – they are expensive to install and don’t always increase the value of the home accordingly. Plus, lots

of people will specifically rule out a house because it has a pool.

There are also home improvements that over-personalize a house and make it less attractive to potential buyers. This could involve converting rooms to have very niche-specific functions that might not appeal to other buyers. An example of this could be converting a bedroom into a walk-in closet. Great for your shoe collection – not great for the next buyer who has to work to convert it back to a bedroom for their child.

What To Do

Once a home is renovated, it’s probably not a great investment to re-renovate it or sink any more money into making big changes unless it could be updated quickly and for a low cost. The truth is that you might just need to be realistic about the sales price, even if you are not recouping your full cost on the renovation.

6. Your House Lacks Curb Appeal Curb appeal is the first thing that buyers notice when they drive up to your home for a tour. A home that is lacking curb appeal can lead to a house not selling because some people simply will not want to walk inside.

What To Do

Take a look at other homes on your street and determine which ones look the best. See if there are small things that you can mimic –from cutting back bushes to painting the front!

RobeRt basham, 92, of Quakertown, beloved and cherished father, grandfather and great grandfather entered heaven on March 23, 2024.

He was born in Mattingly, KY on February 26, 1932 to the late Marvin and Opal (Barbee) Basham.

Robert was the loving husband of the late Jane C. (Morningstar) Basham for 49 years until her passing in 2004 and also predeceased by his brothers Lewis, Harold and James. Robert is survived by his children Linda (Barry) Bentz, Janet (Bruce) Stefanowicz, and John (Terri) Basham; grandchildren Darrell, Bradley, and Ryan Rosenberger, Bruce Jr. and Theodore Stefanowicz, and Nathan and Evan Basham; 11 great grandchildren; longtime companion Dorothy Mininger; and many other loving family and friends. Robert served honorably in the US Navy during the Korean Conflict on the USS Coral Sea and often spoke with pride about his service to our country. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

Joseph William benitez, 20, passed away on April 26, 2024 in his hometown of Quakertown, Pennsylvania. He was born in Sellersville, PA on March 31st, 2004.

He spent most of his life at his apartment in Walnut Bank Farm. Joey loved many things, but Legos were probably at the He filled their home with many buildings and memories. He also had a deep love of amusement parks. Jill, Glenn and Joey visited most of the major parks in the area with Cedar Point being their favorite. He also excelled at gam-

~Obituaries~

ing with Minecraft and Beat Saber being some of his favorites. He also enjoyed spending time with his best friend, Faith Pflaumer. Most of all, he enjoyed being with his family, and will always be remembered for his beautiful smile.

Joey graduated from Quakertown Community High School and was attending college at Bucks County Community College.

Joey is the beloved son of Glenn Benitez and Jill Benitez; brother of Kristina Bartholomew (John), Michael Benitez, Nicole Benitez (Andrew), and Sydney Ziatyk; grandson of Janice Fenstermacher; as well as tons of family and friends who love him and will miss him greatly.

We will hold on to the memories and photos of Joey as we grieve his loss together. Rest in Peace. We all love you, Joseph William Benitez.

Family and friends are invited to Joey’s Life Celebration on Saturday, May 4, 2024 from 4:30 P.M. until his Funeral Service begins at 6:00 P.M. at the Decker-Givnish Funeral Home, 216 York Road, Warminster, Pennsylvania 18974. Interment will be private.

CaRol ann (CulveR) bennetto, age 78, passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. She was the beloved wife of the late Walter Bennetto III. Carol is survived by her two daughters, Lisa Rankin and Stacey Major, and her five loving grandchildren: Spencer, Steven, Matthew, Jonathan, and Brandon.

She was predeceased by her parents, Clifford Culver Sr. and Lena (Jeavons) Culver, lifetime residents of Luzerne, Pa and her brother, Clifford Culver Jr.

Carol earned a Bachelor's degree in biology and a Master's degree in Education, dedicating many years of her life as a

teacher in the local schools. She then went on to work for the Pa State Department of Unemployment and Welfare in Wilkes-Barre.

She enjoyed spending time with her friends and family, flower gardening, and china painting.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

Randall CRessman, 70, of Newark NJ, formerly of Quakertown, died April 11, 2024, at New Vista Nursing & Rehab Center, Newark, NJ.

Born in Quakertown, he was the son of the late Clifford & Ruth M. (Tarantino) Cressman. He is survived by extended family and friends.

Services will be private.

Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

KaRen l deiningeR, 66 of Quakertown died Saturday March 30, 2024, in the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Born in Quakertown, she was the daughter of the late Stephen F. and Helen H. (Harner) Deininger.

Karen enjoyed drawing and sketching. She also enjoyed playing softball in high school where she earned several trophies and awards, and then continued playing in the Quakertown Women’s League. She is survived by three sisters: Pat Stover (Kenneth) of Elmer, NJ, Betty Leonard (John) of Hamilton, MT, Shiela Schulberger (Kevin) of Quakertown, and a brother: Stephen (Sandra) of Quakertown. Graveside services will be held privately. Arrangements are in the loving care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

Memorial contributions may be made to The American Heart Association, 5455 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43214.

maRC RiChaRd douCette, 44, of Quakertown, peacefully passed away on April 17th, 2024, at St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Born in Doylestown, Marc was the son of William Doucette and Victoria (Kaufman) Doucette. Marc graduated from Quakertown Senior HS in 1998. Not long after High School, Marc met his wife, Nicole and started a family. Marc’s passion for life revolved around his entire family. He took great enjoyment in coaching and supporting his own children’s sports and endeavors. In addition to his parents, Marc will be dearly missed by his wife, Nicole HughesDoucette, together they shared 19 years of marriage; his children, Braydon, Destiny, Andre, Jackson, and Roman; his sisters, Missy and Melanie; his nieces and nephews, Jacqui, Lexi, Owen, Madison, Harlee, and Bella; and his lifelong friends, Joe Fuentes and Jeff Anderson.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

maRy ann esseR, 79, of Quakertown, passed away on March 27, 2024. She was born in Quakertown on August 28, 1944 to the late Grady and Mary (Shuman) Gerhart.

Mary Ann was the loving wife of John Esser for 58 years.

Mary Ann was a dedicated worker and loved working at her daycare job and helping the kids. She enjoyed playing organ and piano. She took pride in always having a spotless house, and loved to sit outside to play games.

Mary Ann is survived by her husband John; children Brenda Esser and Rob

Wenz Family has

a

name in designing and producing monuments since 1847 - for six generations. C.R. Strunk Funeral Home

a trusted resource in funeral services since its founding in 1926 and is excited to even more fully serve our community by offering monument design, sales, and service from our funeral home. Rock of Ages

Esser; grandchildren Melea, Dillon, and Mary; brother John (Judy) Gerhart; longtime friend and colleague Cathie Carmen; and many other loving family and friends.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

theodoRe eWeR JR , 95, of Quakertown, passed away on April 5, 2024. He was born in Lahaska, PA on November 5, 1928 to the late Theodore Sr. and Margaret Ewer.

He was the loving husband of Gladys (Sharer) Ewer for 58 years.

He served proudly in the US Army. Theodore enjoyed gardening, he was an avid NASCAR fan, and worked as an independent truck driver for 67 years. He built a cabin located in Sullivan County, PA 60 years ago.

Theodore is survived by his wife; children Rodger (Janet) Ewer, Barbara Weierbach, and Crystal Rapp; grandchildren Lori, Michael, John, Miranda, Kyle, Samantha, and Robert; 19 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents; son Dennis Ewer; grandson Bradley; all of his siblings; and his first wife Dorothea (Sharer) Ewer.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

thomas WalteR FleCK, born April 19, 1955, peacefully departed from this world on Tuesday March 26, 2024, at his cherished home in Perkasie, PA, surrounded by his loving family after a valiant, seven-year battle with cancer.

He was born to the late Joseph and Marie Fleck formally of Ottsville, PA, and was one of six beloved sons.

Thomas leaves behind his devout wife, Cathy Ann Fleck, his two daughters, Stephanie Bryan, and Nicole McKinney, along with their spouses, Jeffrey Bryan, and Christopher McKinney, respectively. He was a doting grandfather to Holly, Jeremy, and Ivy. In addition to his immediate family, Thomas is survived by his five brothers: Joseph, Peter, James, Daniel, and Vincent along with their spouses and children, who meant the world to him.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

maRCella maRie FRedeRiCK, 85, of Quakertown, passed away on April 21, 2024.

She was born in Richlandtown on December 30, 1938 to the late Robert and Mildred Long.

She was the loving wife of the late Jay Frederick until his passing in 2002. Marcella loved spending her time either crocheting or bird-watching.

Marcella is survived by her children Jay Frederick II, Sheldon Frederick, Danielle Frederick, and Nicole (Mark) Koder; grandchildren Jason, Jennifer, Trista, Kimberly, Joshua, Kyle, Hanna, Mina, and Marie; and many other loving family and friends.

She is predeceased by her parents; spouse; and all five of her siblings.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

paul geRhaRt, sR. aka "Red Man" Paul was born in Lederach, PA. to Beulah and Russell Gerhard on June 20, 1940.

He was predeceased in death his mother Beulah, father Russell, brothers Larry, Robert, Russell "Sonny Boy", and his sisters Marian and Doris.

He has a sister Lizzieann (Richard) Miller. Paul is survived by his wife Evelyn aka "Shorty". They were married

61 years.

~Obituaries~

He has two sons Paul, Jr. (Rebecca Gerhart) and Andrew Gerhart (Sherry) from Ohio. He has 4 grandchildren Samantha Gerhart, Renee' Curby (Brandon), Richard Clements (Sandra), and Zachary Gerhart.

Paul was a Veteran of the Army 19581961. He was in the 82 Airborne. When asked what he did in the service he would say "I was one of the crazy ones that jumped from perfectly good airplanes."

He worked in construction for over 40 years. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

ellen R. James, 80, of Quakertown, passed away on April 6, 2024.

She was born in Bethlehem, PA on February 17, 1944 to the late Stanley Smith and Edna (Mease) Steich.

She was the loving wife of the late Jack L. James for over 25 years until his passing in 2019.

Ellen could always be found in her garden, kitchen, or sewing machine. She loved creating things for others.

Ellen is survived by her sons Michael (Melody) Griffo and Joseph (Cindy) Griffo; grandchildren Amanda, Ryan, Melissa, Erika, and Gabriella; brother James (Sue) Smith; and many other loving family & friends.

She is predeceased by her husband; parents; and siblings Richard Smith, Gerald Smith, Elaine Damitrovits, and Virginia Schollenberg.

Interment at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

edWaRd J. “eddie” Kishalonis, 83, of Quakertown, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, March 1, 2024, at Pottstown Hospital.

Born on June 23, 1940, in Mahanoy Plane, PA, he was the beloved son of the late William and Mary (Kostick) Kishalonis whom he loved dearly.

Following high school graduation, he went on to enter the workforce. During his active years, he held employment as a truck driver for the Gilberton Coal Company, the Montgomery Stone Quarry, then with Halowell as a quality control inspector, finally retiring from quality control with Wesco Co.

He was a long-time member of St. Teresa of Calcutta Church in Mahanoy City, PA. Outside of work, he took joy in camping, as well as traveling to Florida in the family RV during the winter. He also loved to watch sports on TV and listening to Southern Gospel Music. Above all, Edward and his wife Rosie were passionate about building and maintaining their Dicken's Christmas Village in their home. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by three sisters: Rosemary, Eleanor, and Dolores.

Edward will be lovingly remembered by his wife: Rosie (Tarantino) Kishalonis, to whom he wed on July 2, 1977; step-daughter: Kay Modzel-Childs (Rodger), stepson: Mark Miller (Dawn); two grandchildren: Brandilyn Manor (Sean) and Erika Gilbert (Joseph); two great-grandchildren: Leah and Mason Gilbert; and two sisters: Alice Saraf and Marianne Provost; as well as many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 10, 2024, at 11:00 am in St. Vincent DePaul/Our Lady of Siluva Cemetery, 1027 W. Pine St, Frackville, PA 17931. A reception will follow at 1:00pm at The Pines Eatery, 8 W. Broad St, Suite 250, Hazleton, PA 18201. Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., 821 West Broad Street, Quakertown.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Edward's name, to St. Teresa of Calcutta Church, 614 West Mahanoy Street, Mahanoy City, PA 17948.

douglas C. KoehleR, aged 85, of Bethlehem, PA, passed away on the afternoon of April 12 at his home.

Douglas was born to Ray and Maisie Koehler in Macungie on November 28th,1938 and after finishing high school went on to graduate with a BS in Chemistry from Maryville College.

He and Shirley married in January 1981. He pursued a long and successful career at Grandview Hospital as an RN. Among his myriad of hobbies were stamp collecting, kite flying, camping, winemaking, the study of New Testament Greek, and a general love of reading across a huge variety of topics. In his later years, his time was spent tending an enormous garden, petting his dog Piper, napping, and most importantly spending time with his beloved grandchildren who never failed to make him smile.

He was predeceased by his sister Arlene, of Soleberry Township.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years: Shirley; his brother: Ray of Mansfield; his son: Michael; daughter-inlaw: Rachel; and five adored grandchildren: Natalie, Aiden, Isaac, Dylan, and Jackson.

Per his wishes, services will not be held. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in his memory to the American Bible Society.

heinz p. KoeRneR, 94, of Quakertown, passed away on Monday, April 8, 2024, at Phoebe Richland Healthcare Center.

Born on December 25, 1929, in Hamburg, Germany, he was the son of the late Max and Emma (Shultz) Koerner.

Following his formal education in Germany, Heinz entered the workforce and enjoyed a lengthy career as an electrical engineer in the manufacturing industry.

Outside of work, he was a model airplane enthusiast.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife: Hilda Koerner.

Heinz will be lovingly remembered by his son: Adrian P. Koerner and his wife, Jill Shafer-Koerner; and one grandchild: Blaire K.S. Koerner.

In keeping with Heinz’s wishes, services will be private.

Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

andReW FRanCis "andy" moRan, 88, of Quakertown passed away on March 21, 2024.

He was born in Manhattan, NY on December 16, 1935 to the late Andrew and Lillian (McNulty) Moran.

Andrew was the devoted life partner to Sharon Bobincheck for 45½ years.

He was a veteran and proudly served in the U.S. Navy, Seabees from 1954 until 1962.

Andy carried himself with dignity and had such a powerful commanding presence that everyone knew when he walked into a room. He had a warm smile, huge personality, and a big heart.

Andrew is survived by his life partner Sharon; and many other loving family and friends.

Andy will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him and all those whose lives he touched. He enjoyed a life welllived and made his world a better place. "OO-fah!"

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

tuyen t nguyen, 85, of Quakertown, passed away on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at Grandview Hospital in Sellersville PA.

She was the loving wife of Phero Truong Van Nguyen. They were married for 64 years.

Tuyen was born on February 1, 1939, In Vietnam.

Surviving are her Children: Huyen, Tan, Ha, Hue, Hoa, and Huong.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

viCtoR “viC” Joseph petRei JR , 80, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on March 26th, 2024, at St. Luke’s Bethlehem Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Born in West Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Victor Petrei and the late Rita (Montone) Petrei.

Vic attended Overbrook High School in Philadelphia and continued his education at St. Joseph’s University.

Vic proudly joined the United States Navy.

Vic will be dearly missed by his wife, Geraldine, together they shared 56 years of marriage; his children, Kimberlie Petrei (Michael Edwards) and Michele Holland (Greg Holland); his grandchildren, Joseph Gartner and Emily Holland; his sisters, Janice Fasciocco (Joe) and Mary Wagner (Ron); his nieces and nephews, Gina Jackson, Joseph Granato, Daniell Callahan, Steven Shefsky, Joe Fasciocco, Vincent Fasciocco, and Nick Fasciocco; along with his extended family members. Vic is predeceased by his twin sister, Rosemarie.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

shiRley Rhodes, aged 87, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2024.

She was born on December 28, 1936, in Quakertown, PA, to Harvey and Annie (Samsel) Nase. She was happily married to Kenneth Rhodes.

Shirley worked at QNB Bank for 37 years and was a proud member of Trinity Lutheran Church, of Quakertown, where she helped organize and promote food drives.

Shirley loved getting together with her girlfriends and playing cards. She enjoyed watching Eagles and Penn State Football games. She even attended a few Penn State games with her long-time friend, Jeannette.

Shirley enjoyed her family and was an avid laundry folder for all of her great grandsons. She lived simply without regrets.

She was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth Rhodes, Linwood Nase (Brother) and Glenna Long (Sister).

Shirley is survived by her 2 daughters, Vicki Rush (Gary), Deborah Curtis (Chuck), 3 grandchildren, Eric Rosenberger (Kim), Melissa Kleckner, Zachary Rush (Gabriella) and 5 great grandchildren, Sophia Rosenberger, Levi, Beau, Axel and Wyatt Kleckner. Services will be private.

Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

ana aleJandRina “mamita” soWeRs, 94, of Mertztown and formerly of Quakertown, beloved and cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, entered heaven on Friday, March 29, 2024, at Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest, surrounded by family.

Born on October 17, 1929, in Quezaltepeque, Chiquimula, Guatemala, she was the daughter of the late Manuel and Antonia Margarita (Villeda) Mejia. Following her formal education, she went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. While in Guatemala, she served as a Registered Nurse and midwife at government health centers and private hospitals. In the late 1960s, she worked for the United States, funded by the Rockefeller and Kellogg Foundations, and the World Health Organization at the Institute of Nutrition of Central America and Panama (INCAP) in the Human Development Department. She was the only RN select ed from Guatemala to contribute to the in ternational program here in the USA.

Outside of work, she found joy in trav eling, cooking, and teaching Spanish to everyone, particularly children. One of her daily activities was to play the card game, Skip-Bo. In her later years, she loved spending time with her great-grand son, Chase. She also found great comfort in her Christian faith.

She was a member of East Swamp Mennonite Church, Quakertown.

~Obituaries~

In keeping with Ana’s wishes, services will be private. Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

In lieu of flowers, donations to help with final expenses can be made to Margarita Yerk, c/o C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., 821 West Broad Street, Quakertown, PA 18951.

CaRol ann viteK, 81, of Hellertown, PA, passed away on April 4th, 2024, at Phoebe Richland Nursing Home. Born in Allentown, PA, Carol was the daughter of the late Ferrel George and the late Gertrude (Roth)

Ana was the loving wife of the late Stanley Sowers, until his passing in 2006, and was also predeceased by her five brothers: Eliseo (Victoria), Gamaliel (Olivia), Jonathan, Hector (Alba), and Otoniel (who passed in infancy) Mejia; and three sisters: Lidia Mejia, Alicia (Alberto) Mejia de Aldana, Dora (Armando) Mejia de Hidalgo; and one son-in-law: Lamar (Margarita) Yerk.

Ana will be lovingly remembered by her three daughters; Margarita Yerk, whom she resided with, along with her granddaughter Claudia Wert and great-grandson Chase Wert; Flor (Edward) Wilson, Alicia (Andrew) Kowalchuck; six grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren.

Carol is predeceased by her husband, Lieutenant Colonel Leonard Vitek. Together they shared 45 wonderful years

Carol graduated from Parkland High School. She continued her education at the Allentown School of Nursing where she became a Registered Nurse. Carol then went on to work at Allentown Hospital as a Pediatric Nurse and for the Quakertown School District as a School Nurse. She loved traveling to Disney, camping, bowling, and going to concerts and the theater.

Carol will be dearly missed by her daughter, Jennifer Newland; her granddaughter, Jasmine Newland; her cat, Kiara; and her great-grand puppy, Willow. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

CaRolyn elizabeth WebeR, Age 91, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on March 27, 2024.

Daughter of the late Blanche Higgins Wilson and George Wilson, Carolyn was

“And

if words cannot repay the debt we owe these men, surely with our actions we must strive to keep faith with them and with the vision that led them to battle and to final sacrifice.”

- Ronald Reagan

born January 30, 1933, in Abington, PA.

Carolyn was predeceased by her beloved husband of 57 years, Frederick William Weber, Sr. in 2008.

Carolyn was a proud homemaker and mother of 4 children; daughters Joanne Lyn Johnson and husband, Walter Johnson, Jr., and Janet Lee English and husband, Roger English; and sons, Frederick William Weber, Jr. and wife Suzanne Weber and Jacob Weber and wife, Jacqueline Weber. Carolyn and Fred were adored by their 11 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren and Mommom’s special friend, Talia Montalvo. She is also survived by her 2 “boys” (the cats) Sammie and Mango. Sammie watched over Mommom and never left her side in her final weeks.

Fred and Carol loved being together and doing everything together – they both were avid swimmers, loved to compete in swimming matches and taught swimming to hundreds of kids in Arizona, New Jersey and South Carolina.

Our parents will be sadly missed, but we are happy they are together again in heaven. Memorial contributions can be made to Last Chance Ranch 9 Beck Road Quakertown, PA 18951.

Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

RobeRt l ziRinsKy passed away in St. Lukes Hospital in Fountain Hill, PA on Saturday, March 23, 2024. Bob was born on December 26, 1945, in Northampton, PA, to the late Walter and Mary (Laubach) Zirinsky. Bob grew up in Catasauqua and was very active in sports early on, and played varsity football, basketball and baseball for Catasauqua

High School. He attended a postgraduate year at the New Hampton School in New Hampton, NH, where he continued playing varsity football and basketball. Bob received a BS in Biology from Lafayette College where he was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity and also played football and baseball, and went on to obtain an MBA from Lehigh University. Bob met Geraldine (Case) Zirinsky in high school and they married in 1968. They settled in Quakertown, PA and became parents to Michael and Jillynn. Bob soon discovered his true passion in business and founded staffing companies in the surrounding region. Through his work, Bob frequently dedicated his time to volunteering at community groups and was very generous in his charitable endeavors. Along with his interest in golf, he was also heavily involved in local sports, coaching youth baseball teams and Quakertown high school football for 15+ years. Bob and Gerry enjoyed spending time traveling and playing card games with their long-time family and friends. They also enjoyed spending time in Naples, FL, where they were able to catch up with some of Bob’s family and college friends. One of the biggest joys of Bob’s life was spending time with his family, in particular his three grandchildren Kate, Tanner and Finn. His world shortly became centered around their busy schedules: he wouldn’t miss a celebration, concert, recital, meet or game (home or away). Bob is survived by his loving wife, Gerry; son, Michael, and his wife, Kellie’, daughter Jillynn, and her husband, Howard; and his three grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Quakertown Cares, 125 California Road, Quakertown, PA 18951. Please include your name and reference Bob Zirinsky’s name on the check. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

Four Really Good Reasons to Invest

Thirty-nine percent of Americans do not own any stocks or stock-related investments, according to a recent Gallup poll.¹ Individuals may cite different reasons for not investing, but with important long-term financial goals, such as retirement, in the balance, the reasons may not be good enough.

Why Invest?

Make Money on Your Money

You might not have a hundred million dollars to invest, but that doesn’t mean your money can’t share in the same opportunities available to others. You work hard for your money; make sure your money works hard for you.

Achieve Self-Determination & Independence

When you build wealth, you may be in a better position to pursue the lifestyle you want. Your life can become one of possibilities rather than one of limitations. Leave a Legacy to Your Heirs

The wealth you pass to the next generation can have a profound impact on your heirs, providing educational opportunities, the capital to start a business, or financial support to your grandchildren. Support Causes Important to You Wealth can be an important tool for impacting the world in a meaningful way.

So whether your passion is the environment, the arts, or human welfare, you can use your wealth to affect positive changes in your community or around the world. Framework for Investing

The decision to invest is an acknowledgment that it comes with certain risks. Not all investments will do well, and some may lose money. However, without risk, there would be no opportunity to potentially earn the higher returns that can help you grow your wealth. To manage investment risk, consider maintaining a broad diversification of your investments that reflects your personal risk tolerance, time horizon, and the nature of your financial goal. Remember, diversification is an approach to help manage investment risk. It does not eliminate the risk of loss if security prices decline. Because investing can be complicated, consider working with a financial professional to help guide you on your wealth-building journey. 1. Gallup.com, May 24, 2023. 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

Care & Share Thrift Shoppes

Partners with Local Organizations for Narcan Training, Distribution

Care & Share Thrift Shoppes is responding to community needs by taking steps to help prevent drug overdoses and reduce stigma for individuals living with substance use disorder.

Care & Share partnered with St. Luke’s Penn Foundation and the Bucks County Drug and Alcohol Commission to install two Overdose Emergency Kits in its shoppes. On April 10, one kit was installed on the exterior of the building between the Clothing Shoppe and the two medical provider offices, and another kit was installed at the entrance of the Book Shoppe.

Each kit is temperature-controlled and located in a publicly accessible space. They contain 2-3 units (4-6 doses) of Narcan, CPR mask shields, other PPE, and drug and alcohol resources.

“We are pleased to make these Overdose Emergency Kits available to our community,” says Sarah Bergin, Executive Director of the Care & Share Thrift Shoppes. “By installing these kits

within our Shoppes, we are increasing access to a tool that can help prevent deaths by drug overdoses.”

Ryan Schweiger, CPS, CRS, Community Outreach Specialist for St. Luke’s Penn Foundation recently provided an educational training on Narcan to the Care & Share staff. Each employee had the opportunity to receive their own package of Narcan and other resources such as Fentanyl drug testing strips. “An overdose can happen to anyone, said Schweiger. “It can happen to someone using drugs illicitly, and it can also happen to someone who is prescribed opioid pain medications for medical purposes. The individuals who experience overdose are our family members, our friends, our neighbors, our colleagues. Many factors play into the risk for overdose, and Care & Share is in a position in the community to care for the community. They are responding to this with positive energy knowing that if these efforts save even one life, then it was worth it.

Evan Stauffer Named UBCTS Student of the Month

The Upper Bucks County Technical School has named Evan Stauffer their April Student of the Month. Evan, a Level 3 Senior from Palisades High School, is enrolled in the Welding & Fabrication Technology program. His dedication to his craft is truly remarkable. Evan has been actively involved in various competitions and has consistently showcased his exceptional skills in welding and fabrication.

Since November 2023, Evan has been engaged in a COOP program at L & L Construction in Quakertown, where he serves as a Welder/Ironworker apprentice. His job description includes all aspects of the welding trade, including connecting steel, rigging, detailing, and installing a deck. Evan's achievements extend beyond his workplace. In 2023, he secured the Silver Medal in the SkillsUSA Fabrication Team competition, demonstrating his ability to collaborate and excel within a team setting. His individual skill set was further highlighted in 2024 when he earned the SkillsUSA Individual Welder Silver Medal.

My first flights on airplanes took place when I was travelling home from Basic Training from Columbia, S.C., flying to and from Ft. Knox, Kentucky for Advance Training back in 1965. Aside from the flight to Germany, the many Air Force hops while in Europe even though I was in the Army, and my flight home. These flights were always in Uniform. When back in civilian life I would fly Eastern Airlines to my Aunt’s home in Daytona Beach, Florida on Eastern Airlines from Allentown with a stop over in Atlanta, Georgia. Dress was casual, but was next to Sunday best. Hot meals were served in the regular travel pass and refreshments were served. We all know how those days of “special” air travel are LONG GONE! After many hours of air travel in years since, I have taken a dislike to the Herd mentality of today’s air travel. We find it more comfortable to drive to our destinations of travel, as time (working) is not as limited.

Sadly I find the “Joy” of a form of vacation known as “Cruising” has fallen from a feeling of something SPECIAL to that of catering to the masses in their want of beverage and more simple hurried styles

that aren’t very special.

Our first cruise was a land and sea experience some years ago in our biggest state, Alaska. I and my wife and our friends experienced first class treatment from having our luggage at the door of our land part of the trip, beautiful rail cars to SEE Alaska as we traveled to the seaport. The food was wonderful that was part of the land package. On board ship our second suitcase was with the suitcase that traveled with us across the land on this two-week trip. We packed special eveningwear (I wore a sport coat, shirt, tie, and dress slacks.) The best steaks, seafood including Lobster, Bake Alaska, etc. and had seating with the same persons each evening. Wow! How this has changed!! The most recent cruise that we were on was equal to dining in a local diner. Matter of fact I would have preferred “The local diner” food because at least it comes to the table hot! The dress code of years’ past is long gone. They have a dress code posted, but they don’t seem to enforce it. No more “Captains Night” with some of the ladies coming in Evening Gowns and the men in “Tucks!” The bars were full as one of the selling points of a cruise nowadays is “The Drink Package,” Along with the full bars comes the noise of people who have been at the bar all day.

Entertainment was all around in our past

place in 2023 and elevated his position to second place in 2024, showcasing his continuous growth and commitment to excellence.

Evan's most notable accomplishment is his AWS D1.1 3G Unlimited Thickness Plate Certification. This certification, coupled with an X-ray examination, attests to Evan's proficiency in welding and ensures the highest standards of quality and safety in his work. Evan has also excelled academically. He achieved an impressive score of 90.7% on the NOCTI Advanced Written Exam, solidifying his theoretical understanding of welding and fabrication principles.

Evan's talent has been recognized at the regional level. In the AWS Lehigh Valley Section Competition, he clinched third

cruises. This special 50th anniversary cruise to Bermuda (Our 3’d cruise to this Lovely Island) was void of such. They had one special show and I went to check on it shortly after boarding and found out that reservations were needed and ALL shows were booked! Needless to say, I spent a bit of time at the desk and we and the other couple with us attended the early show the next evening! At the same time I arranged for the complimentary special dining reservation at the restaurant we wanted and found out that it too was booked full. Once again I got the time and seating through Pa. Dutch Persuasion and the meal was very good. Even the cruise service desk was next to the noisiest area on the ship and I had to holler to be heard by the assistant. No movie in the theater on at sea days just programs trying to sell the spa or acupuncture, etc. We did luck out to see the two comedians that were extra shows. We truly missed walking around the entertainment decks and seeing individual artists as we did on our last two trips to Bermuda. Oh Yes, our two-days in Bermuda were cut short to one day because of a low pressure coming from the West. Dah! We left Bermuda on a beautiful morning to run into that same low with 75 mile an hour winds that evening. We were traveling northwest. So we hit the low earlier. Luckily we went on a morning than an evening excursion the first day. We missed out on a beach excursion to relax on the second day because of early departure. Once again, part of our package was a credit towards cruise offered trips on land. They took that away even though we did have two excursions!

Despite his rigorous schedule, Evan remains a well-rounded individual. He balances his academic and professional pursuits with his passion for sports, representing Palisades in Varsity Baseball. In addition to his achievements, Evan is mature, personable, and has a great sense of humor. His love for Bob Ross has become a conversational piece at work, brightening the days of his co-workers. Evan Stauffer epitomizes the spirit of excellence, dedication, and perseverance. His accomplishments in welding and fabrication are a testament to his hard work and commitment to his craft.

So we didn’t even get full credit for what we missed! I stopped shouting over the crowd next door noise and accepted this loss. I forgot to mention that in between our morning 5-hour trip around the Island and our Sunset Catamaran sail trip we went back on board to find the famous cruise ship buffet CLOSED! We did have one extra day at sea to not see a show or see any decent entertainment. We again ate off the same menu with a change of fish from Tilapia to Flounder with NO vegetables (This compares to previous cruise have broiled scallops with broccoli florets one night and prawns with asparagus spears the next night.); no shrimp cocktail or anything resembling cruise food. Of course it came out cold. The cruise ship came in early and we disembarked in record time. This helped them ready the ship for the cruise leaving that day. Hmmm! Is that why we hit that front coming from the West earlier?

Regretfully over the past 15 years and taking quite a few “Cruises” from Alaska, to the Caribbean, to New England and Canada, and our favorite place Bermuda, this special 50th Anniversary trip turned out to be the one that convinced us that the Special “PLEASURE” of cruising has gone the way of air flight. Cruising is now just another party time (Walking around in sleeveless tee shirts and colorful sleepwear bottoms) and has lost its luster. Yes, this is our last cruise because it too has gone the way of air-freight!

Dick helM iS a long tiMe QuakeRtown aRea ReSiDent anD RegulaR contRibutoR heRe at ubfp. Reach hiM at Rbh9@veRizon net

QCHS Alumni Spotlight: Megan Angelo, Class of 2002

BY RAY FOX '66

As I write this month’s QCHS Alumni Spotlight Article I am again humbled by the accomplishments of all the graduates who I have had the privilege to write about over the last eighteen months. This time I am feeling even more pressure because I am writing about Megan Angelo, Class of 2002, who is such an accomplished writer herself. I only hope that I can author this article well enough to meet her approval. I also must mention that I was a school counselor of hers and her assistant softball coach.

While in high school Megan was a class officer, writer for the Recall, and played softball for four years. She expressed what a pleasure it was to work with Recall supervisor Mr. John Pilecki because he gave her and others the opportunity to be creative in their own ways. When asked about fondest memories, she mentioned that she still remembers the big things like proms and senior class trips. But the everyday things are still a big part of her memories of great experiences from QCHS. For example, she remembers the thrill of going to football games and walking the track with friends as a freshman. As a sophomore she remembers roaming the halls and peeking into classrooms waving to friends who saw her. As a junior she began driving to school and remembers parking down at the end of Fifth Street near the tennis courts. She appreciated the fondness of being a senior and doing everything for the last time. One particular memory from her senior year was the last lap around the halls for the senior class before commencement. I suspect that is a fond memory for many QCHS graduates. As Megan stated, “All of the best moments were the little ones.” When asked about her favorite teacher, Megan said, “Oh no, I am afraid I am going top forget someone.” She had so many great teachers and great experiences. She started by talking about Ms. Tracy Houston who set her on her course as a writer for life. She mentioned that the entire English department was an inspiration to her. She specifically mentioned Mrs. Debbie Scheetz. She also mentioned the support of the class advisors, Scheetz and Ms. Bratina, for their help with planning the class trip and the prom, but also for being strong academic and social support, As mentioned earlier, she mentioned Mr. Pilecki as well as Science Teacher Steve Cherrybon, and social science teachers, Mr. Dave Tyson and Mr. Dave Evans.

Magazines. She published her first novel, “Followers”, copywrite 2020, and has been in the process of writing her second novel. This novel came about because she had begun writing TV pilots and feature scripts. “Followers” was really written as a feature but the tremendous expense of budgeting a TV or movie kept that from happening. She noted that the pandemic and being a parent have slowed her down. She mentioned that she is lucky to have a partner who believes in her work, children who are patient with her long hours of working at her desk, and dictating random thoughts to herself wherever she is. She also stated that many writer friends have been supportive as well.

Megan’s family has many connections to QCHS as well. She is married to Erik Parker (QCHS graduated of the Class of 2002). Erik is an engineering manager working for Olo, a restaurant technology company. They have three children ages 9, 7, and 5 and currently live in Bethlehem, PA. Her parents still live in Quakertown and still work in their longtime fields of social work and law. Her brother, Mark (QCHS Class of 2004) graduated from Bucknell with an undergraduate degree and East Stroudsburg with a master’s degree. He is currently a high school vice principal, college professor, and dad with two children living in Spring Lake, NJ. Her other brother Greg (QCHS Class of 2006) is a Lehigh graduate and is a marketing executive in the field of higher education and father of three living in Hatfield, PA. Megan is involved in many things in the city of Bethlehem. She sits on the Board of the Northeast Community Center, a nonprofit serving families in Pembroke-Marvine housing. She is on the Board of Directors of BASD Proud Parents, a grassroots group that advocates for increased funding from the state of PA for public schools. She is also incredibly involved in the parent-teacher organization of her children’s elementary school. One of her favorite volunteer activities is helping with the Scholastic Book Fair, where the parent group makes sure that every child receives a book, even if they cannot afford it. The school has an “Everybody Reads” model which helps to assure that every child receives a book.

As you can see, Megan has been remarkably busy throughout her life and has accomplished so much in the work of journalism. We look forward to the publication of her second book.

After high school Megan graduated from Villanova University where she majored in English with a concentration in a program they called Peace and Justice Studies. In reviewing the questions I asked of her, I can tell that the topics of peace and justice are still especially important to her. After graduation from Villanova, Megan moved to New York City, where her first job was as a writer for the now defunct magazine Conde Nast Portfolio. As is the case with many writers, she freelanced her way through writing for many publications. She wrote for Glamour Magazine and covered the NYC comedy scene for the New York Times. She did much of this by going to small basement bars and writing about the people shew thought stood out: many of whom have become famous.

Presently, Megan continues to be a freelance writer. Since becoming a mother, her nonfiction focus has become writing more about motherhood and culture through the eye of being a parent. Some of her articles have appeared in Vogue and Romper

The Quakertown Community Alumni Association encourages alumni to participate in the Association activities. Its mission includes fundraising to provide scholarship opportunities each year for graduating seniors. Please check out our Facebook Pages “Quakertown High School Alumni Association” and the Alumni pages of the QCSD.org website for more information. We are a 501C3 organization and always welcome any contributions toward our scholarship endeavors. If you are interested in donating, please email Qchsalumniboard@gmail. com and you will receive instructions on how to do so. Comments and ideas for future articles can be sent to Ray Fox at rdefox@msn.com.The Alumni board is a group of dedicated people who strive to support the students and alumni as much as we can. You could say that we “bleed blue” but more importantly, that we embody the commonly known Quakertown mottos:

“Enter To Learn; Leave To Serve.”

Le birdy 4 Awl BuckyBlock

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

Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.

Check out our selection of Mother’s Day Gifts! Visit us at Arts

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 220 West Broad Street • Downtown Quakertown Something for Everyone Variety featuring Avon • ZoZo Soap Company • T ie D ye by R ainbow T ides • and much

Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.

Sea Life

Mother Nature Has Last Laugh on Total Eclipse Day

The April 8th Great North American Eclipse was predicted to be the most watched event in modern history. Millions of people traveled from outside the path of totality on eclipse day to locations that would experience the full total solar eclipse.

The Upper Bucks area was in the area with 90.8% coverage. So while the skies would darken, we would not experience the full “nighttime” effect of the eclipse, the corona ring, or have confused animals settling down for night. And as it happened, Mother Nature had the last laugh with cloudy skies obscuring the view for many would-be eclipse watchers. People brough lawn chairs to the park or in the yards, donned appropriate eyewear and cast their eyes skyward to see what they could see.

The next total solar eclipse with regions of the United States will be on August 3, 2044 with parts of North Dakota and Montana in the Path of

Totality. The August 12, 2045 Total Solar Eclipse has a path that travels across the country from Florida through California.

Hey folks! Peanut here. I’m excited for the Arts Alive that is coming up. Also, Valley Choral society is having their concerts that weekend so my human will be getting me to Arts Alive early. I wanted you all to pay attention to the picture with this article. Too many of you are walking your dogs on pavement. If there is a grass edge please walk you four legged friends on the grass. You could train your dog to walk with socks on that have cotton balls inside to take the heat. Thats all my news for now. ~ Loving the warmer weather, Peanut

Quakertown resident Jenn Bubba and her pup Comet were ready for the eclipse on April 8. Unfortunately the clouds moved in and Comet did not get to enjoy his first solar eclipse. photo by michele buono

Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship

Bible Baptist Church Meets at HIghland Park Dining Hall 415 Highland Park Road Sellersville, PA 18960

484-523-3333

www.biblebaptistcares.org

Pastor: Tom Harris

Bible Study Hour 9:30 am, Morning Worship

10:30 am, Services interpreted for the deaf Christ Church United Church of Christ 101 N. Main Street Trumbauersville, PA 18970 215-538-0142

christchurch10@verizon.net

www.christchurchisalive.org

Pastor: David Heckler

A friendly, welcoming church. Change fear into hope, doubt into faith. God is calling. Join us at 11am Sunday. Halleleujah!

Christ’s Lutheran Church 218 East Broad Street Trumbauersville, PA 18970

215-536-3193

christselca@verizon.net

www.christslutheran.com

9:00am Worship, 10:15 Sunday School, Handicapped accessible, Family Friendly Church. Find us on Facebook! Church of the Incarnation 44 S. 8th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-3787

Ardores@verizon.net

www.IncarnationQuakertown.org

Pastor: Most Rev. Thomas J. Kleppinger Traditional worship, Biblical faith Sunday 10:30am, Holy Days as announced. Emmanuel Episcopal Church 560 S. Main Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-3040

emmanuelchurch11@yahoo.com www.emmanuelquakertown.org

Sunday service at 10am, Visitors and new members always welcome!

First United Church of Christ 151 S. Fourth Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4447 info@firstUCC.net Facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertown

Senior Pastor: Rev. Jon C. Bauman

Min. of Visitation & Pastoral Care: Elaine Ely

Join us in person Sundays 9:15am Join us online at www.firstUCC.net. Community Lunch 2nd Saturday Drive through pickup 9am. Community Dinner 3rd Thursday 5:30pm (eat in).

Good News Church

424 Juniper Street Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-4393

Pastor: David Markey, Jr.

An alternative to the ultra-contemporary Sunday Worship and Children’s Church 10:30 am, Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm, World Evangelism Fellowship affiliate. Grace Bible Fellowship Church 1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N. Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-6096 grace@quakertownbfc.org www.quakertownbfc.org

Sr. Pastor: Ron Kohl

Sunday School for all ages. 10:10am Morning Worship, Small group meetings 2nd & 4th

Sundays 6:30pm; Tues: Ladies Bible Study 9:45am; Wed: AWANA (2 yrs - 6th grade) & Teens for Christ 6:30pm, Adult prayer meeting 6:45pm Juniper Street Bible Church 317 Juniper Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

267-373-9115

Pastor: Derrick Thompson www.juniperstreetbiblechurch.org

Worship Sunday 10 am; also live on Facebook and Youtube. Bible study Tuesday 7 pm. We pray you will join us in worship and study.

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. Pennridge Christian Fellowship 720 Blooming Glen Rd, Blooming Glen 18911 215-257-7309 pastor@pennridgecf.org www.pennridgecf.org

Pastor: Thomas Vargis

Multicultural Charismatic church worshipping God in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Our service consists of song service, testimonies, and teaching of the word. Live Spanish translation & children’s service at 10:30 Sunday worship. Livestream: fb.com/pennridgechristianfellowship

Ponderings by Palma

BY PALMA MOYER, RN

Freedom. What does it mean? We send our young people out to fight for our freedom, but what do we do with it when we have it? I think it means that we can make a choice to think for ourselves and do what we think will bring us happiness. After all who does not want to be happy. What is happiness? Is it a lot of money and material things and a bank account? I think it is helping those in need. First, we must do the best we can to be healthy, and share with those

less fortunate. I believe health and happiness come from knowing that we are all important in God’s eyes, each with a gift. Whether we use it or not is our choice. Just a simple smile or an encouraging word to someone goes a long way. Try it you might like it. Love and prayers to all for a healthy, happy life!~ As Always, Palma Moyer, RN

palMa iS a 1957 gRaDuate of teMple univeRSity hoSpital School of nuRSing. She ShaReS heR expeRienceS anD peRSpectiveS on nuRSing anD on life. She enjoyS heaRing fRoM you at DonthelpMeMoyeR@aol coM

Quakertown United Methodist Church 1875 Freier Road Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4992 barb@qumc.com

www.qumc.com

Pastor: Rev. Richard K. Brown II Sunday schedule: Worship 8:30 am, Sunday School 9:45 am, Worship 11 am Communion first Sunday of each month.

St. Isidore Roman Catholic Church 2545 West Pumping Station Rd Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536-4389

Pastor: Rev. Kenneth C. Brabazon izzyparoff@comcast.net www.stisidores.org

Sunday Masses - 5:00pm Saturday evenings; 7:00am, 9:00am, & 11:00am on Sunday mornings; 1:00pm in Spanish Sunday afternoons

St. John’s Lutheran Church 4 South Main Street • PO Box 458 Richlandtown, PA 18955 215-536-5027 Admin@stjohnsrpa.org www.stjohnsrpa.org

Pastor: Rev Dr. David A Genszler

In person worship service Sunday at 9:30 am, Watch our Worship Service anytime on stjohnsrpa.org/sermon or on Facebook. Activity Center Rentals Open, Capacity 125, call 215-536-5027 to book.

St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown

1565 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Spinnerstown 18968 (GPS Quakertown 18951) 215-536-0734 stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org

Worship Service: 9:30 a.m.

Service also is live-streamed on Facebook (St. John’s Lutheran Church, Spinnerstown, PA) and video available on the church website.

BY PASTOR JON BAUMAN

What do you believe about the Holy Spirit?

Some of us may begin to walk through the doctrine of the Holy Trinity, and some of us may begin to verbalize how the Spirit is however we feel moved.

But if we either keep the Holy Spirit in the realm of Doctrine, or take the Spirit out of that realm and into the realm of experience and emotion, we're not seeing the person of the Holy Spirit at all; we either see the Spirit as irrelevant to our life, or as merely an extension of ourselves.

After Christ ascended into heaven, the disciples gathered to pray.

The Spirit came in like a rushing wind, ignited the fire of God within and around them, empowered them to preach the Gospel of Jesus as the Way to the Father to travelers in their native tongue, and invited them into the reality of God at work among them, just as it was prophesied about in the Scriptures before.

The Holy Spirit is not simply a

St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley 910 Allentown Road, West Rockhill Twp 215-257-9643 stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com www.stjohnsridgevalley.com

Pastor: Rev. Lauren Bruno 8:30am Traditional - 10:15am w/praise band. Grape juice & gluten-free wafers available. Adult Forum 9:40, Handicapped accessible. All invited and welcome to Share the Joy! St. John the Baptist Parish 4050 Durham Road, Ottsville 18942 610-847-5521 pastor@stjohnsottsville.org www.stjohnsottsville.org

Pastor: Selvaraj Lucas, MSC

St. John the Baptist, the first Catholic parish in Bucks County, has served the pastoral needs of Catholics since 1743.

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Applebachsville 837 Old Bethlehem Road, Quakertown 215-536-5789 stpaulsqtown@gmail.com www.stpaulsqtown.org

Pastor: Rev. David Heckler

We believe in sharing God’s love in joyful service. Come and see. All are welcome. St. Paul’s United Church of Christ 104 Green Street Sellersville, PA 18960 215-257-7268

Pastor: Rev. Trudy Irving secretary@stpaulsucc.net www.stpaulsucc.net

Sunday Worship 10:15 in Sanctuary Springfield Mennonite Church 1905 Pleasant View Road Coopersburg PA 18036 267-999-1404

Pastor: Rev. Joseph Wames pastorjoe@springfieldmennonite.org www.springfieldmennonite.org

Join us at 10:15a Sunday Mornings for a Blended Worship Service, Multi-generational, loving congregation. Biblically and Doctrinally Sound.

Trinity Lutheran Church 102 N. Hellertown Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536.4345 www.trinityquakertown.org

Pastor: Dayle Malloy

9 a.m. Traditional service, 11 a.m. Contemporary Service, 10: 15 a.m. Sunday School, Handicap accessible, Family Friendly, Dynamic Music Ministry, Living God’s Love for All

theological statement in that scene, or an extension of their own conscience, but the Spirit was and is the everlasting God dwelling among and within them and us.

The day of Pentecost is not only about what happened in Acts 2; it is about what is happening NOW. It is about how the Holy Spirit is continuing to work within the Church of God through our actions AND our words to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ so that one day people of every tribe, of every tongue, and of every nation, will bow and proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord.

How have we been hoping for the Spirit to blow the doors of our understanding open?

How have we been humbled by the majesty of God?

How have we been praying for the Spirit to move around us, within us, and through us?

Are we prepared for the message of Pentecost?

jon bauMan iS the SenioR paStoR at fiRSt uniteD chuRch of chRiSt in QuakeRtown he can be ReacheD at jbauMan@fiRStucc net

Eagle Scout Candidate Paints the Town Yellow

Orion San José of Trumbauersville is a candidate for Eagle Scout and he and Boy Scout Troop 13 worked toward his Eagle Scout project on April 27. The project consists of cleaning and painting the curbs yellow near all of the fire hydrants in Trumbauersville to denote where cars should not park so firefighters can easily access the hydrants in an emergency. As you can see in these photos it was an all-hands-on-deck kind of day with scouts, scout leaders, friends, and

family all pitching in to get the project completed. Trumbauersville’s mayor, James Black, remarked, “Today was nothing short of amazing… It was a day filled with camaraderie, hard work, and the satisfaction of making a meaningful difference in our community… a special shoutout to Orion for his exceptional leadership skills throughout this project. His guidance, enthusiasm, and commitment were evident every step of the way.” submitted photos

Think Local. Serve Local. Be Local.

American Legion Post 242 May Update

BY DICK HELM

Our busy season is about to begin. We ask the help of the many members to volunteer to help make our events a success. As we well learned in our time of service to our country,

“It Takes a Team.”

Events scheduled for May are as follows. On May 12, 2024 we will have a special Mother’s Day dinner. That day we will also have a flower and flag sale. As usual the 3’d Sunday of the month is the Son’s Sunday morning breakfast and they also have Steak Hoagie Friday evenings on the Second Friday. (This is a real bargain and tastes soo good!)

Electronic Sign” for these events. This is your Post and Canteen and we ask you to continue to support it.

The Memorial Day Programs (May 27, 2024) start promptly at 9:00 AM with the parade. We then will have the very solemn and interesting Memorial Day Service starting at 10:00 AM at the sight of the parades end in front of the beautifully restored War Memorial on Mill Street in Quakertown.

The Lessons of Mr. Buck

Most important is the annual Memorial Parade and Service that will be held at the War Memorial located at Quakertown’s Memorial Park on Mill Street. Our guest speaker scheduled is the CEO of the General Carl Spaatz USAAF (United States Army Air Force) Museum located at nearby Boyertown, Pa. General Spaatz is native to that nearby area and was the commander of the Army Air Force in Europe. He was on the staff of General Eisenhower along with George Patton and Omar Bradley to name a few. I am looking forward to this retired Marine Colonel’s presentation.

Many other functions throughout the “Busy” season are scheduled at our Post, which is alive with growth and activity-“Please Keep an Eye out on our

Directions of the parade are as follows: Parade starts at 9th & Park Avenue going North over Juniper Street to Broad Street. Right (East) on Broad Street to 3rd Street. Turning Left on 3rd Street (North) to Mill Street. Again turning Left (West) on Mill Street marching to the Memorial Day Service site across from the Public Swimming Pool. Parking is available in the parking lot by the Baseball Field and in the Swimming Pool/Ball Park lot next to the pool. If attending the service only we ask you to please arrive at these lots by 9:40. (Before parade arrives).

Remember this holiday is not only the beginning of the Summer Season of fun and frolic. It was for the main purpose of honoring those both living and dead who gave their ALL so we might enjoy the freedoms of this nation. ALL gave some — Some Gave ALL!

See you on Memorial Day!

~ For God & Country, Dick Helm

I had Warren S. Buck for Chemistry at Quakertown High School (class of 1970). He was near retirement then, had taught science in the district for over 30 years. He’d been there so long my mother had had him. She liked him a lot, praised him. In my era though, we thought Mr. Buck was an old excentric who was grumpy, strict, and a bit silly. In lecture or conversation, he spoke in a slow, hesitating cadence with a Pennsylvania-Dutch accent. Even today, former students chuckle and mimic his speech when remembering Mr. Buck. Each of them has a memory and mocking anecdote to share about him.

Mr. Buck’s corny, science related jokes were written into his lesson plans. His delivery, however, was weak and monotone and his odd sense of humor seldom provoked a laugh. But then, you had to know the science before most of the jokes made sense. Consequently, they went ‘over the head’ of a lot of us. I at least grinned when he gave us the Chem Lab rules. To avoid contamination we were instructed, “If you see someone returning unused chemicals to the jar you must immediately knock them to the floor, jump high into the air and land—both feet together—on their chest.” Once, I absentmindedly violated that rule and was greatly relieved when he only insulted and reprimanded me in front of everybody by shouting his familiar denigration: “There is nothing in this world dumber than an ox, and you are a dumb ox.”

We also were warned to never skip class the day of a Chemistry test. Mr. Buck hated giving make-up tests so they were ridiculously hard and had to be taken ‘after school’. Once, my buddy Eric Koetteritz (class of 1970) and I took advantage of a fresh snowfall, skipped school, and spent the day at Doe Mountain (now Bear Creek), ski area. One of the make-up test questions required me to produce an ‘electron dot diagram’ of Rutherfordium, atomic number 104! I didn’t realize all I needed to show was the outer shell and used up half a page making little dots. [Sorry if that’s ‘Greek’ to you. Few of us remember our Chemistry]. The rest of the questions were even harder and the test took over an hour. Mr. Buck was there the whole time, moseying around the classroom, standing behind me looking over my shoulder or sitting behind his desk glaring at me. I doubt he even graded the test. I knew I’d flunked, but he gave me my class grade average. Mr. Buck’s plan worked, though. I never skipped another Chemistry test.

till I looked it up: a branch of geography dealing with physical features). It was the category’s only entry, hence a winner.

Warren S. Buck was born to Frank and Lily (Sassaman) Buck on February 14, 1910. He grew up in Fleetwood, PA. where he achieved the Boy Scout rank of Eagle. He studied education at Kutztown University, graduating in 1931, and began his teaching career at Amity Township high school in Berks County. Mr. Buck received his Master of Science degree from Penn State in 1936 and transferred to Quakertown School District in 1937. He served there for 36 years, retiring in 1972. In addition to his ‘work’ at school, over the years Mr. Buck was President of the Quakertown Kiwanis Club, president of the Junior Patriotic Order of Sons of America*, and vice president of Grundsow (Groundhog) Lodge (camp 103).** In addition he was a member of the National Science Fair Pioneers and served as president of the Lehigh Valley Science Fair which was annually held at the Allentown Fair Grounds.

*The Junior Sons of America was formed in Philadelphia in 1847. It’s an organization for young men ages 16 to 21 and originally served as a ‘feeder’ for the adult organization. The parent group soon faded out but the ‘junior’ group persisted, establishing camps for young men. At its peak, there were camps in 20 states with 800 of them in Pennsylvania alone. The organization has always promoted patriotism and free public education and they are opposed to unrestricted immigration. The organization’s 2019 Mission Statement includes the pronouncement, “We support and pledge to defend the Constitution of the United States and the rights of every citizen to enjoy the liberties set forth in that document. We also support the education of all citizens and teach respect and proper care of the American Flag.”

As well as being head of the photography club, Mr. Buck was senior fellow in the science department and organizer of the school’s Science Fair participation. Quakertown was a powerful ‘science school’ in the 1960’s and led all area high schools in Science Fair awards. Participation was heavily promoted and each year Quakertown students, including myself, almost always won gold medals. Mr. Buck knew all the categories and recommended Physiography for my fossil display (I had no idea what that was

**Grundsow (Groundhog) Lodge, established in 1934, is a fraternal organization, found mostly in the ‘Dutch Country’ of Pennsylvania. The organization’s purpose is to preserve and celebrate the Pennsylvania-Dutch culture and language. The lodges (there are currently 15 of them), meet annually in winter and spring. The local Grundsau Lodsch Nummer Viere an der Dohek (Groundhog Lodge #4, on the Tohickon), was established in 1949 and meets the 4th Thursday of January at Benner Hall in Richlandtown, PA. Warren S. Buck, a unique and (may we say?), a notorious Quakertown high school science teacher, died at Belle Haven Nursing and Convalescent Center in Quakertown, PA on Tuesday, April 21, 1998. He was 88 years old. Any student who had him will never forget him. When I asked other graduates about Mr. Buck in preparation for writing this article, each one, without exception, had a story to tell. Each one wore a broad smile while telling it. So, if you don’t believe Mr. Buck had a lasting, mostly positive, effect on the education and life of the students he taught, then you, my friend, are a dumb ox. jack Schick iS a long tiMe QuakeRtown aRea ReSiDent anD RegulaR contRibutoR heRe at ubfp. Reach hiM at SjckSchc@aol coM

“And I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free. And I won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right to me.”

- Lee Greenwood

Collecting Revival: Record Players & Vinyl Records

The portable record player has reached middle age. That’s right, portable record players have reached 50 years old and that means a collecting revival is on the horizon. The 1960s and 1970s marks the golden age of portable record players and turntables with built in speakers. The RCA record players were mid-century modern record players that have retained interest with today’s collectors. Teenagers would bring their box record player/stereos and handy vinyl record carrying case to a friend’s house and listen to music after school until dinner time. Manufacturers that made turntables with stereo playback Hi-Fi sound sparked consumers’ interest and encouraged shoppers to buy turntables for the home. The Hi-Fi sound made them a mainstay in America’s living rooms and dens.

the turntable on the top beneath a domed lid, speakers that were revealed by opening two panel doors, and a storage area at the bottom that was the home to records. One point of interest is that Victrolas are of interest with collectors as long as they are in working condition. Today, certain antique or vintage records players command thousands of dollars with collectors.

There has been an increase in the value of vintage record players and stereo cabinets housing both radio receivers, speakers, and turntables since circa 2015. During my video call appraisal sessions, clients show me turntables to gain appraised value on the market and most are pleasantly surprised with the retail value on the market for such pieces.

In the late 1800s, Regina tune sheet music boxes, Edison phonographs, and Victor Victrolas represented some of the early versions of record players. The Regina music boxes were made in Rahway, NJ and housed in a mahogany, oak, or cherry wood box, these music players used a comb mechanism to play metal tune sheets of 15 inches in diameter of various songs of the day. They were portable and are often available at auctions and online. In the early 1900s, the famous and highly recognizable Victor Victrola played music from a free-standing cabinet of solid hardwood. This piece of furniture hosted

Digital music downloads have changed the way we listen to our favorite songs. Fortunately, convenience has not outpaced vintage style. Many of today’s collectors are adding to their contemporary music libraries with old school vinyl records complete with artful album covers and vintage record players.

DR loRi veRDeRaMe iS an awaRD-winning MeDia peRSonality with a ph.D. in aRt anD antiQueS hiStoRy a foRMeR MuSeuM DiRectoR anD univeRSity pRofeSSoR, DR loRi appeaRS on netflix’S king of collectibleS, hiStoRy channel’S pawn StaRS Do aMeRica anD the cuRSe of oak iSlanD heR live Stage Show, DR loRi’S antiQueS appRaiSal coMeDy touR, iS pReSenteD nationwiDe. DR loRi’S youtube channel boaStS 38 Million viewS viSit www.DRloRiv coM oR call (888) 431-1010.

Science has proven the easiest and fastest way to train a dog is to use a marker! A marker word is taught and used the same way as you would a clicker. They both are a tool to communicate to your dog that they have done something correctly and just earned a reward. You simply mark (word or click) the behavior you like. You ask the dog to sit. You mark (word or click) the behavior of sitting the precise moment when the dog’s butt hits the ground and within a second or two it’s followed by a treat. Most people feel intimidated or uncomfortable using a clicker. What’s nice about the marker word is it’s convenient, plus you always have it with you. The marker becomes a secondary reinforcer; saying the primary reinforcer, the treat comes next. The beauty of marker training is the treat doesn't have to be there right that second. The marker word or clicker actually bridges time until the treat gets delivered. The marker (word or clicker) is always followed by something your dog finds delicious.

A marker has to be taught or charged, in other words, given value. This marker becomes very valuable to the dog. If you

use it but don’t treat it after, it’s like a broken promise; the marker loses value. Choosing a marker word should be short, not more than two syllables, but easy to say. Words like “Yes”,” Yup”, “Super”, “Good” “Great” or “Nice” are awesome choices. Just make sure that’s not a word that you commonly use in your everyday speech because you don’t want it to be confusing for the dog.

This is Classical Conditioning in its most basic form. An example would be when the dog sees the leash, the leash predicts the walk. To start marker training, have your dog in front of you in a quiet location. You’re going to have a handful or a treat bag of pea-sized treats. We are going to build the association that within a second or two of hearing the marker, a treat goes directly into your dog’s mouth. You should have a rate of ten to fifteen treats for at least three days. When you say your marker (word or click) your dog should rip his head around or lick his lips you’ll know the marker has been loaded and ready to use.

SubMitteD by MaRion c o neil cpDt-ka, ctDi, owneR anD inStRuctoR foR MolaSSeS cReek Dog tRaining, llc, QuakeRtown anD tRaineR foR Runaway faRM pet hoSpital, pennSbuRg She can be ReacheD at MolaSSeScReek@veRizon net

To Shave or Not to Shave

I’m a Libra and as such, can’t make a decision.

Today, I’m at a new crossroads which for most men, and the rare woman, would probably be fairly simple.

Three months ago, I stopped shaving.

Now what?

I always hated that boring morning ritual, and once I exited the work world, I only relented and grabbed the razor every three or four days, or if Shelli complained that it was scratching her when we smooched.

I didn’t really consciously decide grow a beard, I just stopped shaving, but now everyone is saying I look good.

Shelli’s nephew Greg told me I look better, which he quickly followed up with “You didn’t look bad before, but you look better. And younger.” So apparently, I was unattractive and old looking before. Thanks Greg.

But a beard needs care, and I’m trying to even further reduce my required daily duties. Three of the kids (males) have the very close beards that are popular today. That looks like a tremendous amount of work.

I started looking online for different types of beards, especially on old dudes, to see what style I would like…something

that didn’t require a lot of care, or time, but not full-on ZZ Top. So far that hasn’t helped too much, but I did learn that there is one good looking silver haired gentleman that seems to get all of the modeling gigs for those over a certain age.

Apparently, companies no longer care if you are modeling for different businesses. Or appear in multiple commercials… look at Travis Kelce or Gronk. They are everywhere! Along with those two annoying guys who used to be in the show Scrubs. And they can’t seem to do anything without each other. It’s kind of creepy!

Absence makes the heart grow fonder fellas. Remember that.

So, sitting at the table and looking at too many pictures of older men and drinking my coffee this morning, Shelli offered to make me some eggs with toast. Unfortunately, the eggs got in my beard and it took me five long minutes of scrubbing and a lot of soap to finally get the yellow stain off my gray facial hair.

Nobody warned me about that problem. More work…

Where’s my shaving mug?

john SchaningeR iS a lifelong ReSiDent of pennSylvania anD haS liveD in uppeR black eDDy foR oveR 14 yeaRS. Reach hiM at M12StRing@aol coM

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.” -

John F. Kennedy

St. Luke’s Employee Shares Her Own Book for Read Across America

Children at Quakertown Elementary School had a special treat during Read Across America week. Not only were they read to, but they also heard the book from the author herself, Paula Stoneback, of Green Lane.

Stoneback was one of more than 100 St. Luke’s University Health Network (SLUHN) employees who participated in Read Across America week, March 2-6, which is celebrated to promote literacy and aims to encourage reading while educating people about its benefits. Stoneback, a Senior Financial Analyst at SLUHN, has written four children’s books. She read her book, Suzie Q Buckaroo, Sleepover at the Zoo, Part 1, to elementary classes.

“It’s been a wonderful experience going out to the schools to meet children and read to them,” said Stoneback, who has participated in Read Across America with SLUHN for the last six years. (During COVID, Read Across America was held virtually.) This is the first year Stoneback was asked to read her own book to the children, and she was delighted to do so.

Monroe Hospital, SLETS, Clinical Trials, Gift Shops, and the Fitness Centers. Prior to joining SLUHN, Stoneback was a wedding photographer and had her own business for 20 years. “I honed my writing skills with a successful blog that was written about each wedding,” she said. She retired from the business when she came to SLUHN but had always had a desire to write. “I thought I would write mystery novels,” she said, “but I stumbled on to writing children’s books in 2018.” Her first book was for children 7-12, North Pole East. Her second book, Mighty Madison, Dreams Do Come True, was for younger children. Both of those books were illustrated by Parker Simpson. Stoneback has since written a Part 2 to Suzie Q Buckaroo, Sleepover at the Zoo. Stoneback illustrated both Suzie Q books, which also are for younger children, herself. All of her books are available on Amazon. Stoneback will sign books for any SLUHN employees who ask.

For this year’s Read Across America celebration, St. Luke’s Department of Community Health partnered with 26

As a reader, Stoneback said the children always have wonderful questions for her and are especially interested in what it’s like to be an author, she said. “Many raise their hands and say they want to be authors, too,” said Stoneback, who encourages them to write their ideas down. “I tell them you’ve got to get it out on paper.”

Stoneback has been employed by the accounting department at St. Luke’s for eight years. She handles the financials for

schools throughout the region. St. Luke’s identifies need through our Community Health Needs Assessments and partners with our school communities throughout the year to consistently connect students, staff, and families to care, education and resources. Read Across America provides an opportunity to further bring our St. Luke’s staff and mentoring initiatives to our schools to demonstrate commitment to the communities we serve.

New Vitae Wellness and Recovery put on their first-ever prom in Quakertown last month. Staff and clients enjoyed great food, live music, and dancing. Erin and Domenic were voted Prom King and Queen. photos by michele buono

2024 Buick Envista FWD

It’s been a while since we tested a Buick. And the one we recently tested is certainly not a banker’s car or car for older folks as that long-time stigma was bestowed on Buick cars in the past.

Far from those misnomers as we were really impressed with Buick’s 2024 Envista FWD compact crossover. Envista is one of four crossovers in the Buick stable and slots between the subcompact Encore GX and larger Envision. All sized slightly differently and priced accordingly.

a sporty, swept-back look. It shares the same platform as Chevy’s Trax that we’ll review in an upcoming column. And Envista has just

the right amount of chrome trim for a classy, upscale, snappy look.

This handsome crossover is offered in Preferred, Sport Touring and top-line Avenir that we tested. Avenir comes with heated perforated leather seats, while the other two have leatherette seats.

Envista’s cockpit has two digital screens that Buick designers made look like one 19-inch display. The infotainment display is a vivid 11-inches diagonal while the gauge cluster is 8 inches. The infotainment display serves the audio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto connectivity, Wi-Fi Hotspot, OnStar, climate selections, navigation, rearview camera and some voice commands.

Its HVAC controls are easy to operate and view. Some climate selections can also be made on the display. Add a heated flat-bottom steering wheel and Envista’s cockpit takes on a racy look.

The console hosts a wireless phone charger with receptacles for wired charging. It shares the console with the gear selector for the 6-speed automatic transmission.

Over on the large all-digital gauge cluster, it has a driver information display for alerts, various operating functions and features, in addition to vehicle speed, gear selection and fuel tank level.

Envista’s back seat is nicely padded and soft with good leg and head room for a pair of 6-footers. And since there’s no transaxle hump, three riders can be accommodated provided the middle rider has short legs.

Perhaps the only low point with the interior was that the lap belts couldn’t be adjusted up or down. As such, the belt would give me a shave for my short five-foot-seven height.

Envista gets its grunt from a small 1.2-liter

turbocharged three cylinder that develops 137hp and 162 lb/ft of torque for EPA mileage estimates of an impressive 28 city, 32-highway mpg. This is with engine start/stop technology and when coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission. At full-throttle, power is applied in linear fashion. And the engine is surprisingly quiet for a 3-banger. The powertrain has no problem moving Envista’s 3,115 curb weight.

Back in the cargo area where the liftgate opens high for tall folks, and with the rear seats upright, there’s 20.7 cubic feet of cargo space

that measures 36.5 inches deep, 39.5 wide and 27 high. Flip the seatbacks and capacity expands to 42 cubic feet for 68 inches of depth. Envista comes shod with Continental 19inch tires that provide a smooth and quiet ride. With its short wheelbase, Envista is a breeze to park even in tight spaces.

Price wise, Envista Avenir carries a most affordable (in today’s car prices) base price of $28,600 nicely loaded with a host of safety features such as following distance indicator, remote start, forward collision alert, lane keeping assist w/lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking and front pedestrian braking. When encountering any of these and others, the driver’s seat vibrates as a warning.

On the options list, Avenir’s Advanced Safety Package ($795) includes rear cross traffic alert, lane change alert w/side blind zone alert plus outside heated mirrors and rain sensing wipers that took the bottom line to $30,490 with delivery. That’s still a reasonable price for an eye-grabbing crossover. And it could be even more appealing here in the Snowbelt if it were available with AWD. Envista comes with a 3 year/36K mile bumper-bumper warranty, 5/60K powertrain along with roadside assistance and courtesy transportation, and first maintenance visit or whichever comes first.

nick hRoMiak iS an autoMotive enthuSiaSt anD fReelance wRiteR we look foRwaRD to bRinging you hiS new coluMn each Month he can be ReacheD at nhRoMiak@veRizon net