‘Quakertown Cares’ Campaign Underway! The air is getting crisp. The leaves are turning a glorious orange and red. The squirrels are hunting for nuts. These are all clearly signs of… the beginning of year 29 of the “Quakertown Cares “campaign! It’s hard to believe that little “Quakertown Cares” will be 30 next year, considering it began with a handful of community leaders and the help of the original Free Press. But the biggest key to its longevity and success is the community. The Quakertown area, its nearby locales really do care. And that has never changed. “Quakertown Cares” continues to be an allvolunteer charity with a wholly local focus. All recipients are our Quakertown area neighborsresidents of the local Quakertown Community School District. Note the word, community. The district felt that that it was very important that the word “community” be included in its name. Because community has always been considered important in the Quakertown Borough and the townships included in the district. Groups assisted by “Cares” include school district and preschool families, veterans, and senior citizens. School counselors and community social workers and volunteers are referral sources. “Quakertown Cares” is already hard at work!
Within the past two weeks, “Cares” distributed Giant food cards to 152 local senior citizens who live in subsidized housing, to 16 local veterans, to eight Head Start families, and to dozens of school families and other seniors with food insecurity or other economic need. “Cares” also provides $1,000 annually to support area seniors through social workers at the Bucks County Area Agency on Aging Foundation. During the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, “Quakertown Cares” will provide 150 local individuals and families Giant food cards to purchase turkeys and fixings for Thanksgiving, with the help of Classic Staffing Services of Quakertown. During last year's fundraising campaign, the community and school district staff members contributed over $50,000, including "angel" contributions from the Zeigler Family Foundation, an anonymous Quakertown business, and QNB. These funds assisted 450 individuals and families. Little, local “Quakertown Cares” accomplishes BIG things with the help of caring individuals, businesses, organizations, churches and the local school district as well as this paper! Numerous contributors have already given to the cause, and have a nearly three-decade history of loyal support. Likewise, several volunteers
have been leaders of “Quakertown Cares” since its founding. The Upper Bucks Free Press is a supporting partner, following in the tradition of the charity's original organizer, The Free Press, a daily newspaper, which began the campaign in 1995. “Quakertown Cares” is a 501(c)(3) charity, so all contributions are tax-deductible. The fundraiser has no administrative expenses. Every dollar of contributions is distributed to neighbors with food insecurity or other economic need. “Cares” has no employees, only volunteer leaders. An area church, Quakertown United Methodist, periodically contributes a "special collection" to the campaign to assist neighbors with compelling needs. Early in this new 2023-24 campaign, the church has already donated $788. And there have been other early contributors, including an anonymous Quakertown Borough resident ($100) and Christopher and Brenda Roth ($500). The campaign has officially begun! Contributions may be sent to “Quakertown Cares”, c/o QNB, P.O. Box 9005, Quakertown, PA 18951, or be dropped off at any QNB branch.
2 • Upper Bucks Free Press • November 2023
Now to December 20 Exhibit: Joan Isaac-Etchings on display at Richland Library, 44 S Main St, Quakertown. Varied subjects! Wed 1pm-4pm, Sat 9am12noon Handicap accessible.
November 15 - January 7 Festival of Trees at Pearl S. Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. Tour times/prices: pearlsbuck.org or 215-249-0100 November 24 to December 3 - Holiday Craft Show, 10am-4pm at Pearl S. Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. Gifts, food, jewelry, apparel, more. Admission: $5. A tradition for three decades. 215-249-0100 or pearlsbuck.org
Wednesdays 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
Thursdays 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 Fall Food Drive (now to Nov 12) Collecting canned & nonperishable foods for Food Pantry at Quakertown Farmers Market Office (exit #4) Winter Coat Drive (now to Nov 5) Gently used, clean, good repair for Salvation Army. BAGGED donations at Quakertown Farmers Market (exit #4)
November 3 Trumbauersville Hoagie Sale (order by Nov 3, pickup Nov 13) Fire Company, 142 N Main St. Marilyn 215-536-2518 or Jen 215-989-0909 “Flash Gordon” Free Movie Matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. 215-257-9718. Peanutfree crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
November 4 Holiday Bazaar 9am-2pm at Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 N Main St. One-stop holiday shopping. FMI: Nancy at nohrberg@ bucks58fire.com or 267-575-0866 ‘Run With the Big Dogs’ Parade & Run through Richlandtown by US Marine Corps (all military invited). 9am-11am at 108 S Main St, Richlandtown. Reception follows at The West End (11am-2pm), 750 N West End Blvd, Quakertown. 718-710-3771 Holiday Craft Bazaar 9am-3pm at St. John’s UCC, 538 E Thomas St, Coopersburg. Crafts, lunch, baked goods, raffle. Bring one or more canned or boxed food item to donate and receive one free ticket for our Raffle. Pork & Sauerkraut Dinner with beverages & desserts, 4pm-7pm at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown, 1565 Sleepy Hollow Rd. Takeout available, pre-order by noon, Nov 2 at 215-536-0734. Stjohnsofspinnerstown.org Lasagna Dinner 4pm-6:30pm or sold out. Eat-in or Take-out. Cost: By donation. St. Andrew’s UCC, 615 E Walnut St, Perkasie Quarter Auction (open 12noon, games 1pm) at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown. $5 entrance fee (one auction paddle). Additional paddles $1 each. Bring non-perishable food item=1 free paddle. 215-536-2416 Dance Party for Couples & Singles with DJ Joel playing Oldies & more. Open 6pm, Dance 7pm-10pm at Green Lane Fire Company, 214 Main St, Route 63. $12 includes snacks, door prizes, 50/50. Cash Bar. 215-453-9841
November 5 Daylight Saving Time Ends Sunday Breakfast 8am-12noon at Springtown Fire Co, 3010 Route 212, Springtown. $10/ adults, $5/ages 5 to 8, free/4 & under. Penny Party & Basket Raffle. Open 12noon, play begins 1pm. Light lunch & desserts for sale. Faith UCC, Route 378, Center Valley
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks? November 19 November 7 Election Day
November 11 & 12
“Christmas in Perkasie” with Rick Doll. Membership Dinner Meeting 6:30pm ($15 reserve: Pat 215-257-9624), St. Stephen’s UCC, 110 N 6th St, Perkasie. FMI: dolllo@comcast.net
“Trains and Trolleys” display and operating model railroad at Perkasie Historical Society Museum, 513 W Walnut St, Perkasie. Open 12noon-4pm. Photos & artifacts. Operating model train display. Perkasiehistory.org
November 8
November 13 to December 1
Woman’s Club of Indian Valley meeting 1pm at Telford Community Building, 125 W Hamilton St, Telford. Program: “Vets for Vets…Serving Those Who Served” by Brody Lightcap. FMI: Woman’sClubofIV.com or 862-251-3076. Happy Thanksgiving Lunch Party 11:30am. Dancing with DJ 12:30pm-2:30pm. At Upper Bucks Activity Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown. $16/per person by Nov 2. Dancing only is $8 payable at door. 215-536-3066
November 9 ’50 Golden Years of Meals on Wheels’ Event, 3:30pm-5pm at Generations of Indian Valley. Refreshments, Testimonials & Mingling. Complimentary spread of small plates & drinks, live background music. Plan to attend? Call 215-725-5841 by Nov 2. Open House 5:30pm-7:30pm at Upper Bucks County Technical School, 3115 Ridge Rd, Perkasie. Discover top-tier programs and meet passionate instructors.
November 10 Veterans Day Observation at Generations of Indian Valley, 11:15am. Donation fee of $2/ lunch is waived for Veterans today. All others still $2. Veterans will stand and be recognized during a recording of the military medley. Separate registrations for the Veteran Event & the lunch meal. at 215-723-5841 by Nov 8. Lehigh Valley K9’s Designer Purse Bingo 6:30pm-10pm (opens 5:45pm) at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown. Basket Raffle, 50/50. Upper Bucks Veterans Organization Veterans Day Program, 10am at Strayer Middle School, 1200 Ronald Reagan Dr, Quakertown. Student participation. Free event. Veterans invited to a luncheon after the service. Public welcome to attend and honor our armed forces.
November 11 Veterans Day East Penn Modifiers Car, Truck & Big Rig Show 9am-2pm at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Registration $15 per vehicle, Spectators are free. Trophies! Top 25 cars plus special interest. R/D November 12. Woman’s Club of Indian Valley’s 65th Holiday Fair, 9am-3pm at Indian Crest Middle School, 139 Harleysville Pike, Souderton. Free admission. Crafts, vendors, gift baskets, food. gfwc317@gmail.com Fall Open House 1pm-4pm at The Drop (Community Youth Center), 501 W Broad St, Quakertown. Art projects, Snacks, Video Games. Gift Card Raffle and more. FMI: Pastor Bruce 215-350-6629 Perkasie Indoor Farmers Market (locally made, healthy food) 9am-12noon at Perkasie Fire Company Fire Hall, 100 N 5th St. “The Rocketeer” Free Movie Matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. 215-257-9718. Peanutfree crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome Thanksgiving Crafts (free, no registration) 10am-2pm at Schwenkfelder Heritage Center (in Stauffer Education Room), 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. Younger kids may need an adult to assist them. 215-679-3103 Fall Slot Car Show 9am-2pm at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. 38th Annual Christmas Craft Fair 9am-3pm at Sellersville Firehouse, 2 N Main St. Visit Santa 11am-1pm. 60 Craft tables, Light lunch all day, Raffle of crafted items. Handicapped accessible.
Basket Raffle Fundraiser at Generations of Indian Valley. Tickets are 1 for $5, 5 for $10, or 15 for $20. Could win basket worth $50-$100. Winners chosen Dec 2 at Reindeer Run. Need not be present to win. FMI: generationsofiv.org
November 15 Quakertown Business & Professional Women’s Club meets (5:30pm networking) and (6pm dinner) at John’s Plain & Fancy, Rt 309, Quakertown. Speaker from Tails of Valor. Cost $35. FMI: Linda 215-536-1325, Reserve by 11/12. Basket Raffle (open 6pm, drawing begins 7pm) Themed Baskets, door prizes, gift certificates. Kitchen open. $10 for 25 tickets. Trinity UCC, 1990 Route 212, Pleasant Valley. 610-216-7185, trinityuccpa.com
November 16 to 19 LuLu Shriners FEZtival of Trees & Lights (Thu/Fri 4pm-8pm) (Sat 10am-8pm) (Sun 10am-4pm) LuLu Shrine Center, 5140 Butler Pike, Plymouth Meeting. Snacks, kids fun, model train, more. Lulufeztival.org
November 17 “Deep Space Nine” Free Movie Matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. 215-257-9718. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome Free Public Leonid Meteor Shower/Star Watch 7:30pm -10:30pm at Tohickon Boat Launch lot, Nockamixon Park. (Tohickon Boat Launch-Google Maps) Telescopes available and BMAA members to answer questions. Bring binoculars if you have them. Please leave pets home.
November 18 Free Veterans Seminar 11am-1pm (lunch included). Given by Betty Carleo of Veterans Affairs & Mack Wagner of Congressman Fitzpatrick’s office. Register due to limited seating. American Legion Post 242, 610 E Broad St, Quakertown. 610-986-2265 or kspenser6568@gmail.com Quakertown Lions Hoagie Sale (pre-ordered by Nov 11, call Jim 215-536-1983). Pick up today at QNB, 3rd St, Quakertown between 9:30am and 11am. Limited number of hoagies for sale at bank until sold out. Indoor Craft Show 9am-4pm at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Local crafters change every weekend. Event Room #201. Call or text George 267-884-5956 to register. Train Show 9am-2pm at East Greenville Fire Company, 4th & Washington St. Kid friendly, Interactive. Buy & Sell. Trains, Toys, Collectibles, more. Refreshments, free parking. $3/person, $5/family. Under 12 is free w/adult. Rich: 610-570-2021. Christmas Bazaar 9am-2pm at St. Agnes Church (Social Hall), 445 N Main St, Sellersville. Raffle & Prize Drawing at 2pm. ‘Trivia Night’ w/DJ. (QCHS Baseball) 6:30pm-10:30pm, Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd. $25/adv, $30/at door. BYOB & Snacks. Teams of 8-10 ideal. No one under 21. Tickets: players or contact Crystal 267-886-0049 or Jeanne 267-733-2130. All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti Dinner 4pm7pm at Trinity UCC (Social Hall), 101 S Main St, Telford. $15/person. 215-723-3889 “Low Lily” Concert (open 7pm) at 7:30pm, Perkasie Patchwork Coffeehouse, Perkasie Mennonite, 320 W Chestnut St. Desserts/ drinks available. $15/adults, $8/age 13+, free/ to age 12. Portion goes to FISH. PerkMenno. net, 215-257-3117
Craft Fair 10am-2pm at West End Fire Company, 1319 Park Ave, Quakertown. $30 space. WestEndFireFundraising@gmail.com FREE Concert: “Shep & Jim” 10am-2pm in Event Room 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd.
November 20 FREE Take-Out Dinner at 5:30pm at Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. Held on third Monday of each month.
November 22 Quakertown Farmers Market open today, closed Thanksgiving. Black Friday Weekend Sales (Fri/Sat 9am-9pm) (Sun 10am5pm). Check website for our sales flyer! quakertownfarmersmkt.com
November 23 Thanksgiving Day Free Thanksgiving Community Meal at 12noon at St. Michael’s Lutheran, Sellersville. Delivery possible for shut-ins. RSVP 215-651-3949. Volunteers Needed! Please call.
November 25 Indoor Flea Market/Bake Sale and 10 Raffle Baskets, 8am-2pm at Upper Bucks Activity Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown. Kitchen open 8am-1pm. Tables $15 each. Info: 215-536-3066 or stop in to reserve your table. WWWA Wrestling 6pm-9pm at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Tickets available at Raceplace Dept 210 or call WWWA Office 215-362-7184.
November 26 Santa Arrives! 11am-5pm for a visit and photos in Event Room 201. Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Christmas Tree Sale begins today until sold out. (Thu/Fri 4pm-8pm) (Sat/Sun 9am-8pm) at Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 N Main St. Contact Tom 267-372-2976 or check on Facebook.
December 1 Trumbauersville Hoagie Sale (order by Dec 1, pickup Dec 11) Fire Company, 142 N Main St. Marilyn 215-536-2518 or Jen 215-989-0909 Christmas Tree Lighting Festival 5:30pm8pm in Downtown Quakertown. Santa & Mrs Claus arrive 7pm by Fire Truck. Carolers, Gift & Food Vendors, Kid’s Train Rides, QCHS Varsity Singers, Alpacas, Live Nativity, Carriage Rides. 215-536-2273
December 1 & 2 Holiday Craft Show (Woman’s Club of Quakertown) with apple dumplings, bake sale, food court, raffle & more. Fri 4pm-8pm, Sat 9am-4pm at Quakertown Fire House, 505 W Broad St.
December 2 ‘Run Run (or Walk) Rudolph’ fundraiser. 8am start. Generations of Indian Valley. FMI: generationsofiv.org 115th Perkasie Tree Lighting 5pm-8pm, (carousel 12noon-5pm) at Town Center and Menlo Park, Perkasie. Santa arrives 7pm to light the tree. Free tractor rides, Fire Dance Show, Costumed characters, more. Events@perkasieborough.org “Christmas in Perkasie” and operating model train display at Perkasie Historical Society Museum, 513 W Walnut St, Perkasie. Open 12noon-4pm. Perkasiehistory.org
December 3 Holiday Basket Bingo (open 11:30am, games 1pm) Sellersville Fire Department, 2 N Main St. Filled Longaberger Baskets. Raffles, 50/50, more. $25/adv, $30/door if available. All must have a ticket. LadiesAux@sellersvillefd.com or 215-257-4028 x 305. Leave message. ‘Quakertown Christmas House Tours’Reception with refreshments 2pm at Raymour & Flanigan, 110 S West End Blvd. House Tours 3pm-6pm. Tickets: $25/advance, $30/at door. QuakertownAlive.com or 215-536-2273
November 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 3
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?
Holiday Concert 3pm (open 2:30pm) Music by Craig Thatcher & Nyke Van Wyk. $10 suggested donation. Quakertown United Methodist, 1875 Freier Rd, Quakertown
December 5
Perkasie Historical Society Christmas House Tour 3pm-8pm. Self-guided. Drive yourself or ride our Special Event trollies. Pick up tour booklet & wristband at the Society’s Museum. Reservations online.
“Pennridge High School Chamber Choir” performance by an auditioned ensemble of students who perform collegiate-level repertoire. Membership Dinner Meeting 6:30pm ($15 reserve: Pat 215-257-9624), St. Stephen’s UCC, 110 N 6th St, Perkasie.
December 10
December 9
December 13
QMPO Holiday Fest/Craft Fair 9am-2pm, Quakertown High School, 600 Park Ave. Music from students, 140+ booths, scavenger hunt, food, raffles. qmpo.org/craft-fair Perkasie Indoor Farmers Market (locally made, healthy food) 9am-12noon at Perkasie Fire Company Fire Hall, 100 N 5th St.
Quakertown Business & Professional Women’s Club and Upper Perkiomen BPW Holiday Gathering at John’s Plain & Fancy, Rt 309, Quakertown. (5:30pm networking, 6pm dinner) Entertainment! Cost $35. FMI/reserve by Dec 10. Linda 215-536-1325
Community Holiday Party 3pm-5pm. Complimentary tour of Festival of Trees at Pearl S. Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. Light refreshments & a visit from Santa. 215249-0100 or pearlsbuck.org
Christmas Tree Lighting Festival presented by
Quakertown Alive!
December 1, 2023 5:30 - 8 PM
Downtown Quakertown Santa & Mrs. Claus arrive at 7 PM by Quakertown Fire Truck
Strolling Victorian Carolers Unique Gifts & Food Vendors Kid’s Train Rides • QCHS Varsity Singers Harley Hill Farm Alpacas Live Nativity • Carriage Rides Carriage Rides sponsored by
David & Jaime Yates
UPPER BUCKS CAMPUS
4 • Upper Bucks Free Press • November 2023
Fall Shedding, Ugh!
BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ. Ownership transfer is an issue that many small businesses in America struggle with on a yearly basis. According to some statistics, less than one third of family businesses survive the ownership transfer from first to second generation. Even fewer will survive the transition from second to third generation. As such, a comprehensive business succession plan is necessary for all small business owners who wish to have their business continue on after their retirement or death. Shareholder’s Agreements are Critical! If more than one individual owns stock in a business, a shareholder’s agreement is extremely important. Without a shareholder’s agreement, the business can run into some serious problems when a shareholder dies or wishes to sell their ownership. A shareholder’s agreement will determine the officers/ board of directors for a corporation, the process and timeline for selling company stock, the stock valuation formula, along with other basic operational policies such as rights of first refusal, etc. These agreements must also be updated regularly, or else portions of the contract may be rendered useless. Link Your Business Succession Plan to Your Estate Plan. There is not nearly enough time or space to explain all of the potential estate planning issues business owners face in this short piece, but just know that these issues exist and are complex. Through the use of wills, trusts, strategic life insurance, estate tax deductions
on certain assets, lifetime estate tax exemptions, gift tax exemptions, and the like, a well thought out estate plan can ensure that your business assets will survive and pass on to those you desire. Don’t Forget About an Exit Plan! In the event that you decide your business should not continue on in your family, you need to have a contingent exit plan in place. This plan might consist of multiple strategies such as selling to a third party, selling to an existing management team, or through a previously implemented employee stock ownership plan. Whatever the case, if you do not want your family to be involved in your business, you need to make sure that you have the ability to liquidate and/or obtain value for the business you spent years building. While many businesses face similar problems when it comes to proper succession planning, each business has its own unique set of circumstances and there is no “standard succession plan” that will solve all the issues of each business. The best way to tailor a succession plan to your business is to sit down with your attorney and explain the different dynamics and circumstances surrounding your business. Robert E. Fravel, Esq. is a Bucks County attorney located at 123 N. Main Street, Suite 101B, in Dublin, Pennsylvania. He specializes in estate planning & administration, civil ligitation, and business law. To set up a consultation, call his office at (267) 227-9138 or visit his website at www.fravel-law.com
"I like football. I find its an exciting strategic game. It's a great way to avoid conversation with your family at Thanksgiving." - Craig Ferguson
Well, here it is November. Almost time to beg for that turkey around the table. I wanted you all to see a picture of me at work in church. Yes, I’m a church going do. I do my therapy visits there too. I’m the only one in church who is allowed to sleep through the service. Since dogs are sent to earth from heaven, we know all that is said anyway. Hope all of you stay happy and healthy the rest of the year. It’s great to be able to be close to each other again. ~ Love Peanut
2. Wire pin brush - this type of brush is good for curly wooly coats that range in length from medium to long 3. Slicker brush - made with fine wire bristles, a slicker brush is useful for removing mats and tangles. 4. Combs - rubber curry combs massage your dog's skin and help to remove dead hair from short haired dogs. 5. Some dogs may benefit from a dietary supplement of omega-3 fatty acids. Not only does it promote healthy hair growth, it helps to support joint, heart, and immune health. Always speak with your veterinarian to determine the benefits for your dog. 6. How much water your dog is drinking? A dog should drink an ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. That means a 10 lb. dog needs at least 10 oz. of clean water per day. 7. Bathing your dog not only cleans their coat, but also helps remove dead hair. Deshedding shampoos and conditioners contain moisturizers and omega-3 fatty acids that hydrate your dog's skin and fur to create healthier, stronger follicles by simultaneously detangling old, dead hair from new hair. 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.
Buckygrams: giraffe, tiger, skunk, leopard, zebra, okapi, chipmunk, Dalmatian, jaguar, cheetah, appaloosa, Snoopy Hidden Message: Happiness is a fuzzy puppy. Bucky Block: See eye to eye.
The Business Succession Plan
Integral Documents Often Omitted by Business Owners
A dog blowing his coat is worse than a ripped up goosedown pillow fight on a windy day. Tumbleweeds of hair everywhere! Shedding is the natural process of a dog's coat ridding itself of hair that is old. Once the older hair is shed, room for new and healthy hair can be made. The shedding process is completely normal. It can be very frustrating to be constantly vacuuming up piles of fluff. Some dogs shed seasonally, spring and fall, while other dogs shed all year long. One common misconception is that a hypoallergenic dog won't shed. The reality is that truly hypoallergenic dogs do shed, but produce less dander. The amount of hair that sheds depends on several factors, the dog’s breed, weather conditions, diet, and more. It’s possible to keep shedding under control at home with a proper brush & healthy diet. Her are a few things you can do to keep your dog's coat under control. It just may surprise you to learn that most of these tips will cost you next to nothing! 1. Bristle brush - this brush is good for all coat types, but a brush with more widely spaced longer bristles should be used on dogs with a longer coat. Courser hair may require stiffer bristles.
November 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 5
Developer of Former Mall Site Donates $10K to Richland Twp. Police Dept. The Richland Township Supervisors and members of the Richland Township Police Department were on hand to accept a $10,000 donation from Velocity Ventures, the present owners / developers of the old Richland Mall site on South West End Blvd. Zach Moore, one of Velocity Ventures founding partners, said the company wanted to thank the township for their ongoing support of the new project. “We’re excited. We are looking forward to being a part of the community,” said Moore. He said that the goal is to have the revamped building 100% occupied
within a year. The former mall site will house mixed manufacturing, production, life science, engineering, and warehouse space. Moore anticipates that it could be another 2 - 3 months before the space is complete and ready for tenants. Police Chief Rich Ficco commented, “The donation helps our township with a budget item that we weren’t sure was going to be able to be funded this coming year for an upgrade to our weapons systems. It is now something that we can afford to do without it being a burden on our community.”
Advantages of Listing a Home During the Holidays Whether you’re planning the perfect Thanksgiving feast, or focusing on the December holiday season, if you’re also planning to sell your home, you may be contemplating holding off until January. After all, nobody buys houses this time of year, do they? In 2023, the answer may very well be “Yes, they do.” The pent-up buyer demand, along with low inventory in the spring and summer selling season means that for many buyers the search for the perfect home is ongoing. If you were thinking of waiting until 2024 to sell your home, you might want to consider moving your plans up and listing your home during the fall and winter months to take advantage of strong buyer demand. There are plenty of good reasons to list your home during the holiday season, including the following: • You’re likely to find more motivated buyers during this time of year. If they still haven’t found the home they want—or they have a sudden need to relocate—holiday buyers may be more willing to make decisions quickly. In addition, they may be eager to get moved in for their own holiday celebrations, making them easier to negotiate with. • Many of this year’s buyers have been disappointed by multiple offers on previous properties due to the summer’s low inventory. They may be willing to move fast and make an offer before someone else does. • The increasing use of virtual tours makes this the best possible time to sell a home with minimal inconvenience. You’ll also cast a wider net when your real estate agent shares your home’s virtual tour on a dedicated website or as an enhanced feature on the MLS. • This is a slower time of year for real estate agents as well, so your agent will have more time to focus on your listing. Talk to your agent about ways to get the widest possible audience for your home and its features. • Let’s face it, you’re already cleaning and decorating your home for the holiday season. What better time to show it? Making a Holiday Listing More Appealing Want to get your home show-ready while also enjoying the holidays with your family and friends? It’s easier than you think. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Lighten up on decorations While you’ll want to enjoy the season, don’t feel the need to cover every possible surface in holiday decor. It’s important for buyers to be able to see the space and get a sense of how it works during the non-holiday months of the year. Go for a more minimalist, decluttered holiday look that enhances, rather than hides, the home. Focus on outdoor spaces Even though it’s winter, don’t neglect your outdoor spaces. Keep paths and surfaces clear of leaves and new-fallen snow. Optimize outdoor lighting so that buyers can see well, even when it gets dark early. Create a cozy seating area on the terrace with candles, a firepit, and a basket of blankets. Warm up the space Speaking of cozy, take advantage of the season to enhance the indoors as well. Greet potential buyers with the scent of something baking in the oven and a plate of holiday cookies on the counter. Light pumpkin or evergreen scented candles and start a fire in the fireplace. Make visitors feel welcome and right at home. Take photos before you decorate Just in case your home doesn’t sell before December 25, it’s a good idea to take listing photos before you decorate. You don’t want buyers looking at photos with holiday decorations in mid-January. It will make the listing feel stale, even if it’s only been up for a couple of weeks. Right-price your home for a faster sale If you’re motivated to sell, this is not the time to test the market and hold out for a higher-than-average sale price. Talk to your agent about comparable properties in your area, and ensure that you price your home correctly at the beginning of the process for maximum market impact. A real estate agent or broker has the market insights, professional network, and buyer pool you need to get your home sold any time of year. Talk to them about your timeline and your financial requirements and they’ll help craft a plan that makes sense for you. Sue Deily has been a Realtor for over 35 years, resides in the Upper Bucks County area and enjoys serving her clients in Bucks, Lehigh, and Montgomery Counties. Contact her at suesellshouses@gmail.com.
"No matter what the situation is...close your eyes and think of all the things in your life you could be grateful for right now." - Deepak Chopra
Standing inside what had been Redner's Market at the former Richland Mall are (L-R): Richland Township Supervisor Tim Arnold, RTPD Officer Robert Diamond, Velocity Ventures Founding Partner Tony Grelli, VV Property Manager Brandon Fritz, VV Founding Partner Zach Moore, VV Director ofCorporate Security James Conway, RTPD Chief Richard Ficco, RTPD Officer Kyle Manger, and Township Supervisors Chris Vanelli and Kathie Doyle. photo by michele buono
“I approximated the Black Friday experience at home by hurling myself into a wall a number of times and then ordering online.” - Kumail Nanjiani
6 • Upper Bucks Free Press • November 2023
~Obituaries~
Paul E. Ahlum Jr., 75, of Quakertown,
Richard "Rich" Thomas Clark, age
passed away on Oct. 7, 2023. He was born in Quakertown on April 24, 1948 to the late Paul E. Ahlum Sr. and Arlene (Feikel) Ahlum. Paul was a proud U.S. Navy veteran. He was the loving husband of Yolanda M. (Hartzell) Ahlum for 39 years. Paul worked for over 40 years at US Gauge Ametek in Sellersville. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved the outdoors. He would often regale folks with stories of those adventures. He had a penchant for baking, his favorites being apple dumplings and pies. Paul built the house where he passed and lived for 39 years. Paul is survived by his wife; son James Ahlum; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents; and brother Lamar Feikel. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
87, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, found peace on September 27, 2023, at Phoebe Richland Rehabilitation Center in Richlandtown. He was passionate about family, finance, and football. Known for his unwavering opinions, practical thinking, and meticulous planning, Rich enjoyed a long retirement. He was the husband of Sue Clark, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage. Born in Dayton, Ohio, on March 27, 1936, he was the only son of Everett Clark and Dorothy Palmer Clark of Dayton, Ohio. He served our country in the U.S. Army actively from 1959 to 1961. He is survived by his wife Sue, son Thom (Coopersburg, PA), and son Tim (Dallas, TX), and daughter in laws Melissa Hill, and Kimberly Barney. His grandsons are Owen, Harrison and Benjamin Clark, all of whom he was immensely proud. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Scott Robert Andreas, 65, of Catasauqua, passed away at his home on October 18, 2023. He was born in Northampton on April 29, 1958 to the late Lawrence and Lillian (Kosman) Andreas. Scott was a US Air Force veteran. For over 20 years he was an integral part of Andreas Home Improvements in Northampton. He would often stress the importance of quality work and take great pride in his carpentry. Scott went into commercial construction at the conclusion of the family business. Any time he wasn't working he wanted to be hunting. Some favorite hunting and fishing destinations included Quebec, Montana, and Chincoteague. He was also a regular bowler at the Northampton Liederkranz for many years. Scott is survived by his son Nick (Jennie Hoose) Andreas; siblings Linda (Ronnie) Greenzweig and Eric (Evelyn) Andreas; and many other loving family and friends. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Michael Carl Betson, 73, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on October 11th, 2023, at St. Luke’s Hospital Upper Bucks. Born in Philadelphia, PA, Michael was the son of the late John Betson and the late Helen Betson (Morris). He dedicated his life to serving others. Michael was a Vietnam Veteran and served in the United States Navy. Michael also was a Police Officer for nearly 20 years. He enjoyed, hunting, riding his motorcycle, and watching the Phillies. Michael’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with his family and friends. Michael will be dearly missed by his wife, June, together they shared 40 years of marriage; his children, William Betson, John Betson, and Chris Betson (Rachel); his grandchildren, Ellie and James; his siblings, Patrick Betson (Joanne) and Steven Betson; along with his extended family. Michael was predeceased by his sister-inlaw, Annette Betson. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Richard W. Burkhardt, 93, of Quakertown passed away on October 25, 2023. He was born on September 11, 1930 to the late Oscar and Pearl (Frey) Burkhardt. Richard was the loving husband of the late Naomi (Somers) Burkhardt for 53 years until her passing in 2010. He worked at Bethlehem Steel for over 20 years, and later at Quakertown School District. Richard loved bus trips, exploring the entire catalog from Perkiomen Tours. He loved going on family vacations, including to Wildwood, Disney, and Lancaster. He was a big part of the leagues at Quaker Lanes Bowling. Richard is survived by his sons Michael (Josephine) Burkhardt, Craig (Linda) Burkhardt, Eric (Lori) Burkhardt, and Todd Burkhardt; grandchildren Lena, Samantha, Ben, and Julie; 2 great grandchildren; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents; wife; and sisters Evelyn and Olive. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Theresa Clausen, 90, of Quakertown passed away on October 16, 2023. She was born in Camden, NJ on March 11, 1933 to the late Anthony and Leona (Emrick) Gattuso. She was the loving wife of the late William Edward Clausen for over 55 years until his passing in 2011. Theresa's family was her world, she was the ultimate homemaker. She bragged about her grandchildren to everyone. She loved the Phillies and her game shows, especially Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. Theresa is survived by her son William Clausen Jr.; grandchildren William Clausen III and Brooklyn Clausen; brothers Wilbur (Betty) Gattuso and Andrew Gattuso; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; husband; and siblings Vince Gattuso, Emma Scott, and Madalyn Shaw.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Theresa's honor can be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Charles “Chip” E. Cooper, 77, of Sellersville, PA, had passed away on September 25th, 2023, at Grandview Hospital. Born in Doylestown, PA, he was the son of the late Ervin Cooper and the late Laura Cooper (Stilwagen). Chip graduated from Central Bucks High School in 1965. After graduation, he proudly served in the United States National Guard. Chip worked at Fischer & Porter for many years. He and his wife, Linda, loved to go on roadtrips to the beaches in Maine and the Florida Keys. In his free time, Chip also greatly enjoyed going fishing with his son, Michael. Chip will be dearly missed by his wife, Linda, together they shared 53 years of marriage; his children, Michael Shawn and Brianne Marie; and his grandchildren, Delaney Marsee. Chip is predeceased by his brother, Kenneth Cooper. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Anthony Sylvester DeFlavio passed away on September 30, 2023, at home with his family. He was 95. Born on May 16, 1928, in Atlas, PA he was a son of Rosario and Grace (Calabrette) DeFlavio. Anthony graduated from Mount Carmel High School and joined the Army, serving from 1946-1948. After the Army, he worked for the former Harvey Clothing in Quakertown as a presser. Later, he held several positions as a salesperson, including Rainbow vacuum cleaners, a kitchen refacing company, and a market research firm. The most important thing to Anthony was his family. He loved spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed watching the Eagles,
Philles, and Sixers games on TV. He also liked visiting Atlantic City, Las Vegas, and other casinos, horse racing, and Frank Sinatra. He is preceded in death by his son, Jim, who passed away in 2013. Anthony is survived by his wife of 73 years: Hilda; a daughter: Joanne Oberacker; a son: Jerry DeFlavio; and two grandchildren: Lisa Oberacker and Jason Oberacker. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) at 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. Joseph “Butch” Anthony Dietsch Jr., 66, of Warminster, PA, passed away on October 18th, 2023. Born in Philadelphia, PA, Butch was the son of the late Joseph Dietsch and the late Margaret Dietsch (Bernard). Butch graduated from Neshaminy High School in Langhorne, PA. He then went on to work as a plumber for his parent’s plumbing company for many years and he later joined Wexler Plumbing. Butch enjoyed watching sports games, especially the Phillies and the Eagles, going to the beach, cooking chicken noodle soup, and anything Christmas. Above all, Butch’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with his family and friends. Butch will be dearly missed by his children, Nicole Conicelli (Carmen), Andrew Dietsch (Queen), Michelle Dietsch, and Danielle Dietsch; his granddaughters, Gianna Conicelli and Isabella Conicelli; his ex-wife, Denise Dietsch; his three sisters; and extended family. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Mary S. Frey, 99, of Quakertown, PA passed away on Thursday, October 19, 2023. She was born April 27, 1924, to the late Howard and Mabel (Heintzelman) Trumbower and was the wife of the late Leon Frey. Mary was a dedicated and strong woman. In her youth she assisted her parents with the family farming chores and her parent's sexton duties at Trinity Great Swamp UCC Church. Her family and her faith were the most important aspects of her life. Her three children were her focus when her husband suddenly passed away at the age of 38. She worked various jobs (cleaning houses, sewing machine operator, and at Spinlon and Center Line Mfg. manufacturing facilities to name a few) to support her family throughout her life. Mary always offered home-made baked goods at her house and she always baked something for special events to share with the family. She was a lifelong member of Trinity Great Swamp UCC Church in Spinnerstown, PA. She volunteered her cooking and baking skills at her church, as well as spending many hours on Wednesday quilting with the church's Ladies group. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary at the Milford Township Fire Company for the 40 years she resided in Milford Square assisting with their fundraising banquet events and the annual carnival. Surviving are her sons, Kenneth Frey (wife Janet), Larry Frey (wife Christina), daughter Leanna Berger (husband Tim), 7 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and her sister, Beulah Calabrette, of Richlandtown, PA. as well as many other loving family and friends. In addition to her husband and her parents, Mary was predeceased by her siblings, Henry Charles Trumbower and Anna Crouthamel. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary's name may be made to Trinity Great Swamp UCC Church, please reference: Church Building Fund and forward to: Trinity Great Swamp UCC Church, PO Box 494, Spinnerstown, PA 18968. All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343) Michael L. Hays, age 60, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, passed away on October 14, 2023, at Grand View Hospital in Sellersville, PA. Born in York, PA, he was the son of Robert Hays and Nancy Bartoli Hays of Feasterville. He is survived by Lori Hays (Spouse), Steven Hays (Brother), Nancy Doyle (Sister), Christopher Hays (Brother), Barbara McKenna (Sister), Patrick Hays (Brother), Thomas Hays (Brother), Joseph Hays (Brother). Mike is also
November 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 7
survived by his two Cornish Rex's Mr. Bennie Ru (Cat) and Miss Charcoal Smudge (Cat). The greatest thing about Mike was his gentle heart hidden under the wise cracking, exterior. While shy at first, he slowly emerged from his cocoon, eventually flying about and encircling you with his charm. Sadly, like many others he flew into the light far too soon. Thank you to all who made his life one well lived! Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Thomas Henry Heiland, 72, of Springfield Township, passed away at his home on October 11, 2023. He was born in Quakertown on September 1, 1951 to Irene (Horne) Heiland and the late Robert Heiland. Thomas loved felling trees, cutting wood, and woodworking. He was proud of his property and the nature trails that he established there. He followed the exploits of his daughters and grandchildren closely. He was a history buff and loved WW1 era airplanes. Thomas enjoyed putting on firework displays for his friends and family. He loved his cats Torch and Lilly, as well as all the kitties before them. Thomas is survived by his mother; exwife Linda Heiland; daughters Crystal (Tony McKnight) Heiland and Maya (RJ Gilligan) Heiland; siblings Amy Heiland and Philip (Wendy Audesirk) Heiland; grandchildren Aeris, Evey, and Ramona; and many other loving family and friends. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Dorothy Faye Hindmarch (Short), 99, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on October 6th, 2023, at Pheobe Richland Health Care Center. Born in Conway, AK, she was the daughter of the late Henry Short and the late Ada Short (Pruett). Dorothy was raised by Maybelle “Aunt Belle’. Dorothy had met her husband Bill Hindmarch at a USO dance in Little Rock, AK. They then married on September 7th, 1944, and moved to Easton, PA. Dorothy enjoyed sewing and tending to her flower garden. Dorothy’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with her family. Dorothy will be dearly missed by her daughter, Lynn Graf (John); her granddaughters, Jennifer (Graf) Domijan (Miloš) and Amy Kozel; her great-granddaughters, Lillian Kozel and Delia Kozel; her nephews, Robert Walton and Hubert Drake. Dorothy was predeceased by her husband, Bill Hindmarch and her sister, Doris Shirley. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Angelina Ernestine Jenkins, 20, of Quakertown, passed away on October 8, 2023. She was born in Sacramento, CA on March 13, 2003 to Angela Roos and James Jenkins. Angelina enjoyed exploring the paranormal, and loved to sketch, doodle, and paint. She loved her cat Ryder. She had a huge heart and will be greatly missed. Angelina is survived by her parents; grandmother Katherine Lewis; grandfather Dennis Jenkins; step-father Sean Brennan; fiance Caleb Hoag; siblings Riley (Adam) Prince, Joseph Jenkins, SadieAnne Jenkins, Connor Roos, Dannielyn Roos, and Whitney Roos; step-siblings Mackenzie Roos and Liam Brennan; and many other loving family and friends. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Kenneth E. Knibbs, Jr., age 71, passed away on October 5, 2023. Born in Easton, Pennsylvania on April 1, 1952, he was the son of the late Kenneth E. and Mamie (Flammer) Knibbs. He was a lover of cars, a hard worker, and a giving individual. Always there to lend a helping hand. Survived by sons Kenneth III, Jereme Sr., Nicholas Spangler-Loch, and 9 grandchildren. Also survived by his brother Wayne, sisters Alice, and Eileen. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his sister Marlene. Family held a graveside service Friday, October 20, 2023 at Zion Hill Cemetery, 2966 Old Bethlehem Pike, Zion Hill, PA 18981.
~Obituaries~
Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) at 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.
Theodore and Juliette Lyons, infant twins born at 22 weeks, died Saturday, October 21, 2023, shortly after birth in St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Hospital in Quakertown, PA. Theodore weighed 1 pound, 1 ounce, and was 11 inches long. Juliette weighed 7 ounces and was 9.5 inches long. They are the son and daughter of Joshua and Priscila Lyons of Coopersburg, PA. In addition to their parents, the babies are survived by their big brother, Daniel, maternal grandmother, Marcela Guevara, and paternal grandparents, Scott and Jenny Lyons, greatgrandfather, Lehman Lyons Sr., and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. They were predeceased by their maternal grandfather, Daniel Campos. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Living Church of God (www.lcg.org) at 2301 Crown Centre Drive Charlotte, NC 28227. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) at 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. James “Jimmy” Louis McKelvey, 75, of Doylestown, PA, passed away on October 15th, 2023, at Doylestown Hospital. Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late James McKelvey and the late Edna McKelvey (Soltan). Jimmy attended Temple University where he received his bachelor’s degree. During his time in college, he proudly served in the United States Army Reserves. Jimmy then worked as a Chemist at Rohm and Haas for many years. He enjoyed building unique birdhouses and one-of-a-kind jewelry for his family and friends. Jimmy will be remembered as a kind and quiet man, who was always there when you needed him most. Jimmy will be dearly missed by his stepchildren, Suzanne Krause (Ryan Krause) and Rosemary Spelman (John Spelman III); his step-grandchildren, Carter Krause, Charlotte Krause, John Spelman IV, and Luke Spelman; along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Marvin S. “Marv” Moyer, 87, of Upper Black Eddy, passed away on October 14, 2023, in Grand View Hospital, Sellersville, surrounded by his family. He was the loving husband of Judith (Merkelt) Moyer, to whom he was married for 53 years. Born on December 1, 1935, in Morwood, PA, he was a son of the late Marvin A. and Mary Etta (Smith) Moyer. Marv was a graduate of the former Deep Run Valley High School (now Pennridge) Class of 1953. He was a fiddle player in the Double M Brothers & Don Band from 1955 to 1958 along with Laverne Moyer, Lester Moyer, Dale Maddox, and Don Biresch. The band played on the Doylestown WBUX radio station for a half hour every Saturday afternoon, and appeared twice on channel 10 TV and outdoor events, wedding receptions and a festival where they were the back-up band for Sally Starr. Marv served in the US Army from 1958 to 1960 as a Specialist 4th class (E4) rank. He was stationed at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX. After serving in the military and up until the time of his passing, Marv was self-employed at Moyer’s Furniture, as co-owner and operator, sales representative, and master craftsman of upholstery. Moyer’s Furniture is a familyowned business, specializing in custom reupholstery and slip covers, founded by Marvin A. Moyer in 1945. It truly was a family business, listed are the family members who have worked at Moyer’s Furniture: Marvin A. Moyer (founder), Mary Etta Moyer, Judy Moyer, Shirley Moyer, Laverne Moyer, Lester Moyer, Doris and Frank Rempel, Nancy Moyer, Lisa Jorgensen, Pamela Hager, Jennifer Landes, Michael Merkelt, and Aaron Jorgensen (high school senior project).
Outside of work he enjoyed water skiing, fishing, hunting, and was an avid Phillies and Eagles fan. He was active socially: he played with the Shriner’s String Band, where he was the past president. He was also a member, and former President, of the Lions Club, and a member of the Doylestown Masonic Lodge #245. Marv was an active member, of the Presbyterian Church of Milford, New Jersey where he was a Church Elder. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by two brothers: Lester Moyer and Laverne Moyer. Marv will be lovingly remembered by his wife Judith (Merkelt) Moyer; three daughters: Lisa Jorgensen, and husband Gilbert; Pamela Hager, and her husband Christopher; and Jennifer Landes, and her husband Arden; three sisters: Shirley Moyer, Doris Rempel, and Nancy Moyer; two sisters-in-law: Susan Moyer and Jean Moyer; five grandchildren: Aaron Jorgensen, Amy Myers, Luke Jorgensen, Cory Hager, and Cole Landes; five great-grandchildren: Sebastian and Evangeline Jorgensen, Evelyn, Lylah, and Josiah Myers. He is also survived by his many nieces and nephews, and his beloved dog, Dolly. Interment, in Washington Crossing National Cemetery, will be private. Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., 821 West Broad Street, Quakertown, PA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Marv’s name, to the Presbyterian Church of Milford, 70 Bridge Street, Milford, NJ 08848.
Judith “Judy” A. Nastasi, 82, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on October 18th, 2023, at St. Luke’s Quakertown Upper Bucks Hospital. Born in Quincy, IL, Judy was the daughter of the late Frank Wittkopf and the late Alma Wittkopf (Bliven). Judy is predeceased by her husband, Joseph Sr., together they shared 41 years of marriage. She worked as an executive secretary for Teva Pharmaceuticals for many years. Judy enjoyed watching the Phillies baseball games and the Chiefs football games, she also enjoyed cooking, baking, and decorating cakes. Above all, Judy’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with her family and friends. Judy will be dearly missed by her children, David Taylor (Valerie), Danny Taylor (Monica), Joe Nastasi Jr. (Ruth), and Lisa Bair (Chris); her grandchildren; her greatgrandchildren; her siblings, Gary Wittkopf, Janet Wittkopf, and Sandy Rieger (Randy); along with extended family. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Frederick Jerome Potter IV, 66, of Trumbauersville, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on September 29, 2023. He was born in New Brunswick, NJ on October 25, 1956 to the late Frederick Jerome and Audrey (Van Pelt) Potter. He was the loving husband to Cheryl Jane (Henon) Potter for 8 years. Frederick was a successful entrepreneur, inventor, and aerospace engineer with at least 7 patents, and he worked for decades at Ametek and Astronics. He was dedicated to serving the Trumbauersville community for 39 years and served on the borough council in multiple capacities. He was an avid reader, loved to travel, and frequently enjoyed his extensive cigar collection. He loved to get outdoors, especially hiking and kayaking. No matter what he was doing he loved doing it with his family. He could find the humor in any situation, and was known for his offbeat sense of humor and his intelligence. Frederick is survived by his wife Cheryl; ex-wife Julie Mullen; daughters Jen (Casey Cramer) Potter and Beth (Tom) Mehaffey; step-sons Brandon Fetz and Nick Fetz; grandson Connor Mehaffey; and many other loving family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Fred's honor can be made to Harley's Haven Dog Rescue. harleyshavendogrescue.com
Ralph Edward Rick, 82, of Perkasie passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on October 3, 2023. Born in Quakertown, Ralph was the son of the late Paul Rick and the late Virginia Rick (Lewis). Ralph will be dearly missed by his wife, Ruth, together they shared 56 years of marriage; his children, Brion Rick, Bonnie Harrison (Joe Harrison), Gregory Rick (Renee Woodward), and Kathy Kelley (Ron Kelley); his grandchildren, Janae Brown, Jaye Harrison, Tyler Keeping, Brittany Hill, Kaitlyn Rick, Sean D’Amico, Mackenzie Rick, and Bella Rick; his great-grandchildren, Mariah, Colton, Layla, and Jaxson; his siblings, Marlene Banning, Dolores Warmkessel (Doug), Faye Kooker, and Tim Rick (Kathy George); his cousins, Harold Rick and Maryann Sherman; his nephew and niece, Jeff Warmkessel and Michelle Harwood (Sid Harwood); his friends, Edward Thaler and Keith Grierson, owner of Homewatch Caregivers of Quakertown. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Stanley “Stan” Howard Schoch, 95, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on October 17, 2023, at Independence Court. Born in Quakertown, PA, he was the son of the late Stanley Schoch, the late Margaret Fishburn, and stepson of the late Eleanore Schoch. Stan was predeceased by his wife, Joyce Ann Schoch, together they shared 61 years of marriage. Joyce and Stan both passed away on October 17, exactly eight years apart. In his free time, Stan enjoyed playing golf, watching Philadelphia sports, and fixing things around the house. Stan’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with family and friends. Stan will be dearly missed by his children, John Schoch (Debbie), Lynda Schoch (Robert), and Brenda Landis; his grandchildren, Sean Burke (Julie), Zach Schoch (Carly), and Madison Lick (Stephen); and his great-grandchildren, Tilghman Lick and Sokol Burke. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Ralph E. Shaak, Jr. (Jack), 93, formerly of Perkasie, passed away at Hidden Meadows in Sellersville on Friday, October 6, 2023. Born in 1930, he was the son of the late Ralph E., Sr. and Pauline (Auer) Shaak. He was the loving husband of the late Lorraine (Knieriem) Shaak, with whom he shared 66 years of marriage. Jack is survived by his two children Terrence Shaak (Denise), Alicia Getty (Mark); his four grandchildren, Tanya Shaak, Andreya Shaak, Samantha Getty, and Rich Shaak; his three great-grandchildren, Mason Crouthamel, Kaylee Shaak, and Teagan Sempowski; his three brothers, Ron Shaak, Bobby Shaak, and Jeff Shaak; his four sisters, Becky Orr, Phyllis Shaak, Cass Shaak, and Sandy Shaak (Pam Weikert). In addition to his wife, Jack is predeceased by two brothers, Bill and Mickey; three sisters, Patsy, Debbie, and Mary; his daughter, Colleen; and granddaughter, Carrie. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Warren Daniel Skuret, age 84, of Palm, PA, passed from this earth on October 18, 2023 into the glory and grace of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was the husband of Katherine (Casey) Smith Skuret with whom he shared 55 years of marriage. Born in Passaic, NJ, he was the son of the late Daniel and Mary Sekula Skuret. He will be remembered above all else as a godly man, but also for his passion for his family, his friends, his calling as a Christian educator, and for his work helping to protect the unborn. Survivors include, in addition to his wife; two daughters, Erin Steenburgh (Matthew), and Kristen Barker (Michael); five grandchildren, Nicole Andrews (Seth), Rachel Anthony (Michael), Emily Barker, Eli Barker, and Wes Barker; and one great-grandson, Isaac Andrews. He was predeceased by his sister, Arlene Skuret. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
8 • Upper Bucks Free Press • November 2023 continued from page 7
~Obituaries~
Linda Sue Stimmell, 75, of Upper Black Eddy, passed away on September 25th, 2023, at Doylestown Hospital. Born in Bluefield, West Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Ralph Jennings and Yula Jennings (Byrd). Linda was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Linda will be dearly missed by her children, Stephanie Schmeltzer (Stimmell) and companion Russ Ziegler, Barbara Keebler and her husband Matt Keebler, Albert Stimmell and companion Michele Geissler, and Jonathon Stimmell; her grandchildren, Charles Stimmell and his wife Jessika Stimmell, Kelly Keebler, Brian Keebler, Brielle Hornbaker, Courtney Stimmell, and Hunter Stimmell; her greatgrandchildren, Lukas Stimmell, Priscilla Stimmell, Miles Keebler, Levi Keebler, and Kayden Keebler; and her brother, Charles (Chuck) Jennings. Linda was predeceased by her husband, Albert Stimmell Jr., together they shared 57 years of marriage, her brother, Buck Jennings, and her great-grandchild, Giovanni Keebler. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Roger Franklin Swartz, 86, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on October 23, 2023 at Holy Family Senior Living. Born in Quakertown, Roger was the son of the late Franklin Swartz and the late Ruth (Zweier) Swartz. Roger is predeceased by his wife, Susan, he was a dedicated husband and together they shared 61 years of marriage; his son, Michael Swartz, and his grandchild, Jacob Swartz. Roger graduated from Quakertown High School in 1956. He went on to proudly serve in the United States Marine Corps from 19571959. Roger worked for the Philadelphia Carpenter’s Union for over 30 years, from which he eventually retired. Roger will be dearly missed by his son, Matthew Swartz and his wife Colleen; his grandchildren, Kyle Swartz and his wife Kelly, Reagan Swartz, and Samuel Swartz; and his great-granddogs, Mila and Jackson. Services will be held privately. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Jacqueline Trocine, age 75, of Quakertown, passed away on October 7, 2023, peacefully in her sleep. Born in Philadelphia on August 16, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Thomas E. and Madeline J. Miller. She was a graduate of Cardinal Dougherty High School then went to Martin Anthony Cosmetology School to obtain her Cosmetology license.
Jacqueline was a parishioner of St. Isidore Church since 1970. She enjoyed supporting various charities, music, planting flowers in her garden, and most of all taking care of and spending time with her family. Survived by her husband of 52 years Nicholas, son Anthony, his wife Jenn, son Darrin, his wife Sarah, their children Luca, Sadie, Noah, and son Nicholas. Also survived by her brother Thomas Miller and his wife Barbara. Interment is in Sunset Memorial Park, Feasterville, PA. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) at 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.
Philip Wedgie, a dedicated father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on October 16, 2023 and will be deeply missed by all those who knew him. Born on November 25, 1963, in Plainfield NJ. He joined the Air Force in 1983 and served for 25 years before retiring as a Technical Sergeant. After retirement, Phil continued to work for the Department of Defense as a civilian. Phil's greatest joy in life was spending time with his family and friends. He was known for his wit, honor, and loving nature. Philip is survived by his son, Luke, and daughter-in-law, Seana; his grandchildren, Jaycee, Natalie, Penelope, Luke Jr., and Sean; his siblings, Joseph, Jeannette, Lisa, and Therese; and his nephew and nieces, Kevin, Kimberly, Gina, and Elizabeth. He was preceded in death by his son, Jacob Wedgie; and parents, Philip and Joan Ann Wedgie. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com). Ralph James Weil Sr., 82, of Quakertown passed away on October 3, 2023. He was born in Quakertown on March 8, 1941 to the late Charles Keeler and Edna Keeler. He was the loving husband of Dorothy Jean (Slifer) Weil for over 55 years until her passing in 2010. Ralph loved his dog Coco and cat Nippy. He was an avid Nascar fan and had a special penchant for the Chevies. Years ago, he enjoyed fishing regularly. He enjoyed listening to oldies on the radio and watching the Three Stooges. Ralph is survived by his children Donna (Richard) Gross and Ralph (Katrina) Weil; 8 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild on the way; siblings Sharon, Pete, Timmy, Dave, and Barry; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents; wife; and brother Robert. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Sermons and Testimonials
As a history buff and having the privilege to speak to many volunteer organizations, social clubs, school children, and church groups, I was always amazed at the response to my presentations. People are very interested in the history of our area. This unique concept of having regular folks such as myself writing articles not only about “The Past” but also about our every day living and concerns are a blessing for our community. Way back in 1734 when migration to Upper Bucks from the fertile areas of Montgomery, Chester, and Lower Bucks County offered land to those fleeing the Palatinate region of Germany (later I lived in that area during my Army duty for 18 months), Bavaria, and Switzerland. In their homes, 80% made of log, these early Germanic settlers gathered to worship in their homes. Except for a few times a year when ordained preachers traveled through our area from places such as Trappe, (Montgomery County), Pa., the folks gathering for worship and a chosen deacon presented the word from the Bible in that week’s “Meeting house” for his message. Most homes constructed in our area had a built in cabinet in that held a German Print Bible for this purpose. This continued here in Milford Twp. with the church I am connected with, St. John’s Lutheran Church, Spinnerstown. In 1763 the last of the Penn Family issued a land grant to the “Kirchen People” of the then Upper Bucks County religious group (Joint Lutheran and Reformed worshipers). I spent extensive time researching this period of history and on our Lutheran church history years back before it was lost by written records and verbal interviews. During the various periods since 1734, especially in those early years, when Henry M. Muhlenberg would help the Kirchen People for weddings, and baptisms as he traveled along the “Kings Highway” from Trappe to what is now known as Allentown for his ministries we had “Lay Pastors.” I am sure that during the times of Parish ministries, there were times when Lay Pastors would have to help. Parish ministries involved one Pastor serving as many as 4 or 5 churches as their leader of worship. Unfortunately, I think that
type of ministry will once again be a way of life because of the amount of persons called to that profession and the over abundance of small congregations in our small area. Because of today’s shortage of “Supply Pastors” and the over abundance of congregations, such as ours, who lost their pastor to a call from a larger church, we were looking for someone to give the message. While we were waiting for an assigned pastor, a member of our church who is a Deacon in the local synod, helped us when she was not assigned “fill-in” time at other churches preached and gave communion. Other times, our council president Stephen Spry, did a great job doing the whole service including “the message.” Margaret (Peg) Hudock, a retired teacher gave us an inspiring message and I even helped out by giving the message on two occasions while Steve did the rest of the service. We came full circle from 1734! During this time, the offer of giving the privilege to share in the ministry or give testimony was offered to all members. Now comes the fantastic closing of this article. We had a volunteer come forth to give a message if her service was needed. A member of our congregation for many years, Mildred Westgate, was given the OK with welcome arms. Her message on “Prayer” was delivered in such a way that it touched everyone in the congregation. The context, the deliverance of the message, and the clarity in which it was delivered were top notch. Everyone present listened intently and I noticed a tear or two from members by the words as they were delivered. I will always remember the Sunday that Mildred witnessed and delivered her message on the power of prayer as one of those special memories in life. You see, Mildred Westgate, is 104 years old!! She is so spry and sharp you would never imagine her age. St. John’s Lutheran church is truly blessed to have persons such as Stephen, Peg, and Mildred who step forward when their services are needed. Our congregation has survived from approximately 1734 or as incorporated 1763 these 260 years. With the spirit I see in this congregation. I am sure this house of worship will exist for a long, long, time! Dick Helm is a long time Quakertown area resident
and
regular
contributor
here
UBFP. Reach him at rbh9@verizon.net.
at
November 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 9
Pfaff Elementary Students Recognized for Academic Excellence Two Pfaff Elementary students were recognized on September 14 at the Quakertown Community School District School Board meeting for their outstanding academic excellence. Alyssa Zirkelbach and Diya Patel were the school’s top performers in First in Math, a digital resource designed
with focus, coherence, and rigor, that supports the development of fact fluency and computational automaticity in elementary and middle school students. The highest performance tier in the program is "Grand Champion," a title provided to students who earn 10,000 stickers. For Patel, who earned 32,560 stickers and Zirkelbach, 36,564 stickers, their performances tripled that tier. Quakertown students have been dominating the competitive program at the state level as Pfaff Elementary leads all QCSD schools and is 15th in the state and 25th in the nation. William Cammann’s fourth-grade math plus class at Pfaff leads all QCSD classrooms with an average of 19,065 stickers per student. (l-r) Glenn Iosue, School Board President, Peach Draper, Instructional Coach - Math, Mary Ellen Suhadolnik, Instructional Aide, Dr. Matthew Friedman, Superintendent, and Dr. Eric Thompson Principal of Pfaff Elementary. (front row) Pfaff Elementary students Diya Patel and Alyssa Zirkelbach.
American Legion Post 242 Update
BY DICK HELM
As promised in last month’s article, I am giving the details of the wonderful Veteran’s Day program to be held by the joint American Legion Posts and other Veterans groups of Upper Bucks County. If you have never attended one of these programs that have been presented now for over 30 years, you are missing an inspirational and patriotic program that given on for Veteran’s Day. Because it is a school program and involves student participation as well as attendance, this year it will be held on Friday, November 10th. We are honored to have the program in Quakertown this year. It will be at Strayer Middle School, 1200 Ronald Reagan Drive, Quakertown. The time that the program will start is 10:00 AM sharp. Who is invited? The public in general is always invited. We especially invite any veterans who served whether in conflict or times of peace. Those who served are invited to a luncheon after the service. We ask you make every effort to attend. If you do, you will find yourself attending year after year to not only hear the inspiring song and music, but to hear the messages of our special guests. I am always impressed at the positive response of the students and their showing of patriotism in these troubled times. Please arrive between 9:30-9:50 as program must start at 10:00 AM sharp because students from various schools will be attending. Other important things to look for at our Post involve a 2-hour tutorial and educational program (Lunch & Learn) that
will be given on November 18th with lunch provided. Sponsored by the Sons of the American Legion. Betty Carleo with the Bucks County Office of Veterans Affairs and Macklin “Mack” Wagner of Representative Fitzpatrick’s veterans’ staff will be there to help. You can register by e-mailing Karen Spencer at kspencer6568@ gmail.com or calling 610-956-2265. (e-mail preferred) Charles Wismer wants me to pass on some good news. He was told that for the current membership year 2023-24; our Post is the top sponsor of NEW members in the tier membership level class of Posts we are in, for the whole state. He mentioned that the memberships are being mailed in at a steady pace and that I should mention to keep them coming. Recently he sent out tickets for the “Youth Drawing” to be held on November 18th. This is an important fundraiser as it is one of the 4 pillars of the Legion and a very important one. Youth are our future and they too will someday be our veterans of tomorrow. It is important that we strive to help them keep physically fit, morally straight, and educated in their best interests. This pillar and fund raising helps us to monetarily contribute towards those standards to produce a good citizen. Send in those tickets and maybe you will win one of the 101 prizes drawn. I attend the wonderful luncheon provided and help draw the tickets. Sometimes we have folks who win more that once as the tickets are put back in after each drawing sequence. ~ FOR GOD & COUNTRY, Dick Helm
Losing. As I write this, over 4000 are dead from the war in Israel and Gaza. Men. Women. Children. By the time you read this, it will be much higher. This staggering number causes me to think of those left behind. The feelings one must endure when your child dies is incomprehensible. For those that lost theirs, one is no different than four thousand, or four hundred thousand. It is your child. Gone. Forever. Regardless of your thoughts on this war, there is no rationalization to the killing of innocents. There is no rationalizing the pain inflicted on parents. My parent’s first two children died as infants. I can’t begin to conceptualize what that must have felt like. They tried again. My oldest sister survived. At first, they believed they would lose her as well. Imagine the anxiety and relief that came with each pregnancy and birth. A horrible way to find joy. Mom and dad never spoke of their first two. Those of a different era didn’t. At the young age of forty, my brother died from cancer.
All dad said was “Johnny, a parent shouldn’t ever have to bury their children.” And then I saw him cry for the first time. It doesn’t matter the age, grief of a parent hits hard, hits deep. And doesn’t leave. I very recently learned that my grandparents lost their first three children. In 1917, 1919, and 1920. My father was born in 1921. I learned this over 100 years later. They too never discussed it. Perhaps the world will finally learn from the massive deaths in this latest violence. The cynic in me says probably not, or rather, most certainly not. The world never seems to learn. We humans never seem to learn. There is no justification for killing. Not religion. Not Political beliefs. Not human-made boundaries of countries. Not murders or indignities by another. Unlike generations prior, with 4000 dead and counting, I pray we shout it loudly today. Perhaps one day, instead of the sounds of ammunition we will hear silence. Ultimately the silence of guns, or the everlasting silence of humankind. John Schaninger is a lifelong resident of Pennsylvania and has lived in Upper Black Eddy for over 13 years. Reach him at m12string@aol.com
Earnings for All Seasons
While nature offers four seasons, Wall Street offers only one – four times a year. It’s called “earnings season,” and it can move the markets. So, what is earnings season and why is it important? Earnings season is the month of the year that follows each calendar quarterend month (i.e., January, April, July, and October). It is the time during which many public companies release quarterly earnings reports. Some public companies report earnings at other times during the year, but many are reported on the calendar year that ends December 31. Reported Earnings To understand the importance of earnings, we need to remember that the value of a company can be tied to the amount of money it earns. Some companies don’t have earnings, and they are valued based on their potential rather than their current earnings.1 Wall Street analysts maintain a close pulse on a company’s quarterly report to help estimate future earnings. For example, these estimates may guide investors in determining an appropriate price for a company’s stock. Remember, though, a company is not permitted to discuss interim earnings with select individuals; earnings reports must be disseminated publicly to level the playing field for all investors.2 An Inside Look When an earnings report is released, it tells the market two things. First, it offers an insight into how the company is performing and what its prospects may look like over the near term.2 And second, the report can serve as a
bellwether for similar companies that still have not reported. For instance, if the earnings of a leading retailer are strong, it may offer an insight into the earnings of other retailers as well as other companies that similarly benefit from higher consumer spending. What Time? Earnings reports are generally released when the market is closed in order to provide market participants adequate time to digest the results. Earnings reports may move markets. If earnings diverge from the expectations of professional investors and traders, then price swings – up or down – may be significant. Such a divergence is referred to as an “earnings surprise.” If you are a “buy-and-hold” investor and feel confident in a company’s long-term prospects, earnings season may mean little to you, since short-term results may not impact your long-term outlook. However, earnings reports can be meaningful if an earnings shortfall reflects a structural problem within a business or represents the continuation of a downward trend in earnings.
1. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Keep in mind that the return and principal value of stock prices will fluctuate as market conditions change. And shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. 2. This is a hypothetical example used for illustrative purposes only. It is not representative of any specific investment or combination of investments. This article was submitted by Bob Podraza of Robert James Investments at 1313 West Broad Street, Quakertown. He can be reached at 215-583-5013 or at robertjamesinvestments.com
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.
10 • Upper Bucks Free Press • November 2023
The 16th Annual Upper Bucks Foodie, organized each year by the Upper Bucks Chamber of Commerce delighted ticket holders this year with a wide variety of local eateries, distilleries, and wineries from across the Upper Bucks area. This annual event supports scholarships for local high school students to attend Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week at Lycoming College and the Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport, PA. photos by michele buono
The Autumn Alive! Fall Festival is an annual event in Downtown Quakertown organized by Quakertown Alive!. The damp weather didn’t discourage many people from coming out for a day of shopping local businesses and vendors, seeing and hearing live entertainment, and enjoying food and drinks! photos by michele buono
November 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 11
2023 Quakertown Halloween Parade Results Individuals
1st - Santa -Jonathan Blum 2nd - '57 Chevy - Jack Coulter 3rd - Pumpkin eater - Lee Ford
Small Groups 1st - Nyce Construction 2nd - Farm Tractor - Dan Ranker 3rd- Quakertown Masonic Lodge #512
Large Groups 1st - UBACE - "Music" 2nd- Burkee - "How to Train a Dragon" 3rd - Girl Scout Troop 2806 4th - Miss Cindy's School of Dance
Commercial Floats 1st - DanceWorks "A 40th Anniversary" 2nd - QNB Bank
Non-Commercial Floats
1st - QMFA Football & Cheer
Civic & Non-Profit Floats
1st- Cars for a Cause 2nd - John Rivers VFW Post 11322 3rd - Quakertown Parks & Rec K.I.D.S. 4th - Boy Scout Troop 007
Fire Companies
1st - Quakertown Fire Department 2nd - Richlandtown Fire Co. 3rd - Sellersville Fire Co. 4th - Trumbauersville Fire Co.
Equestrian
1st - Friends Horsing Around
Judges’ Prize
1st - Coopersburg Kenworth 2nd - Scout Pack 55 "Super Hero Skills" 3rd - Girl Scout Troop 2760
Bracalente Manufacturing Holds Manufacturing Day Event, Welcomes 108 Trade Students On October 27, Bracalente Manufacturing Group (BMG) in Trumbauersville held its 9th annual Manufacturing Day welcoming 108 local trade students from Upper Perkiomen High School, Quakertown Community High School, Western Montgomery Career & Technology School, Northern Montco Technical Career Center, Upper Bucks County Technical School, Bethlehem Area VocationalTechnical School, and Souderton High School. Ron Bracalente, President & CEO of BMG, opened the day accompanied by Cate Smith, Executive Director of the Precision Machined Products Association (PMPA), speaking to the students about the different types of manufacturing and the lucrative and
expansive career paths that manufacturing can offer. The students continued with a tour of the facility where they were able to experience manufacturing in action and learn about all the products Bracalente produces for some of the largest brands across the world. Encouraging trade school education is a keystone initiative of Bracalente. Through the Silvene Bracalente Memorial Foundation, they have donated more than $200,000 in the last decade to schools promoting and supporting education in manufacturing. Ron Bracalente is third generation owner of Bracalente Manufacturing Group, a 73-year-old, privately owned global manufacturer headquartered in Trumbauersville, PA.
12 • Upper Bucks Free Press • November 2023
Mitchell Mothersbaugh Named UBCTS Student of the Month
Upper Bucks County Technical School’s October Student of the Month is Mitchell Mothersbaugh. Mitchell is a senior at Pennridge High School and an outstanding participant in the Dental Careers program. He consistently achieves First Honors and has earned the prestigious Outstanding Level II award in his program. Mitchell took and passed his Radiation Health and Safety Certification. Furthermore, Mitchell has demonstrated his commitment to professional development by obtaining certifications in CareerSafe Teamwork Skills Training and CareerSafe Time Management Training and is currently working towards achieving his OSHA10 certification. Mitchell's dedication to his career path is evident through his employment as a Cooperative Education student at Orthodontic Specialists of Indian Valley, where he has been employed since January of 2023 as an entry-level tech delivering personalized patient care and technical assistance to our team. Gina Barrett, operations manager from Orthodontic Specialists of Indian Valley, states that Mitchell has become an asset to our team. With his polite and caring demeanor, he fits right into our office. He is always willing to learn and pitch in when needed.
After graduation, Mitchell plans to attend college and pursue a career as an Orthodontist. Mitchell's passion for dentistry and remarkable work ethic make him a standout student and individual. He exemplifies the qualities of a future leader in his chosen field.
Mitchell Mothersbaugh is an asset to the Dental Careers program and a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and commitment.
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local. Small Business Saturday is Nov. 25! Ponderings by Palma BY PALMA MOYER, RN It is time for me to stop looking back and focus on the future. It has been a pleasure and an honor to have shared my past adventures with you. I am ready to continue my journey through life as long as God permits. I am seeking to do the right things as they arise. If I can be of service to any one or help with
mental health or substance abuse issues, please email me. I wish all a long happy, healthy future. ~ Most sincerely, 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 can be reached at
donthelpmemoyer@aol.com, an email address given to her by her son when she tried to pick out his girlfriend.
QCHS Alumni Spotlight: Jon Bauman '10
BY RAY FOX '66 Once again, I would like to thank Upper Bucks Free Press readers who have told me recently how much they are enjoying the QCHS Alumni Spotlight articles. I also want to thank those who have been kind enough to help me by providing names for future articles and those who have worked with me to help provide information for these articles. If anyone wants to recommend candidates for future articles, please get in touch with me at rdefox@msn.com. This month’s QCHS Spotlight Article is Jon Bauman (Class of 2010) who is currently the Senior Pastor at First Unuted Church of Christ on Park Avenue in Quakertown. During high school Jon participated in choir and Varsity Singers for all four years. He was also involved in the musical “Music Man” in his freshman year as a singer in the barbershop quartet. During his junior year he was the lead actor Emile DeBecque in the musical “South Pacific”. He was in the Pennsylvania Music Education Association (PMEA) District, Regional, and State Choirs in 2008, 2009 and 2010. In 2009 he was also chosen for the Music Educators National Conference (MENC – now NAFME) All Eastern Choir. Jon’s favorite memories from high school include the relationships developed and the family atmosphere created by the members of the choirs. He felt like the choir members were like a family and really bonded during their choir trips to Bermuda in his sophomore year and to Myrtle Beach in his senior year. He thoroughly enjoyed the musical opportunities afforded to him in high school. Opportunities to be a member of the honors choir and the musicals gave him an avenue for ongoing self-improvement and to work within the groups. When asked who his favorite teachers were, he mentioned that he was blessed with many teachers who really cared about offering their best to their students. He felt that they made their classroom engaging and encouraging. He specifically named Mr. Jeff Silk (his Political Science teacher), Mr. Andrew Boquist (his American Government teacher) and Mr. Jonathan Lechner (his choir director). He felt that Mr. Lechner challenged him to improve and worked with him to succeed. After high school Jon attended Cairn University (previously Philadelphia Biblical University) where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. He started college there as a Youth Ministry major but changed majors in his freshman year because he was already gaining experience as a Youth Minister through his volunteer work and his denomination did not require any kind of degree for Youth Ministry. Cairn did require all students to take several biblical studies classes, and at the start of his education, the school required you to attain a biblical studies
degree. It was this intense study of the Bible that was very formative in his life. In 2016 he began study for his Master of Divinity Degree at Biblical Theological Seminary (now Missio Seminary). His studies there as a professional pastoral student included courses in Biblical Studies, theology, counseling, leadership, preaching and some other areas. He graduated in June, 2020. Like many college students in America at that time, his college graduation was done through Zoom. He did receive the President’s Award during that ceremony. Jon has worked in a wide variety of jobs starting at the age of 14. In his teen years he worked at Cold Stone Creamery, Levy School Bus Company (as a bus detailer), Rita’s Water Ice, Lewis and Son Music, and Dock Woods Retirement Community (maintenance). He continued to work at Dock Woods through college during summer and holiday breaks. During college he interned at an accounting business in Allentown. He also volunteered for three years in Youth Ministry at two different churches. After graduation from Cairn, he worked at Air Liquide America Specialty Gases as a customer service representative until he began his position at First UCC in Quakertown as their director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries in May of 2015. While in Seminary, he as a custodian at the Souderton Mennonite Home. In his time at First UCC he has served as Associate Pastor and is now the Senior Pastor. Jon’s parents are Matt and Libby Bauman, He has two older brothers, Jason (QCHS Class of 2003) and Kyle (QCHS Class of 2005). His parents supported all three boys in their sports teams and music throughout their younger years. Jon met his wife, Julia, during their time at Cairn. They knew each other through college but later reunited and married in 2021. She currently is working at a local elementary school. Both Julia and Jon are invested in the community through their work at First UCC and their jobs. 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 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 Quakertown motto: “Enter To Learn; Leave To Serve.”
November 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 13
Guardianship Corruption: Modern Day Slavery
BY REV. ARTHUR HERRING III Most people are not aware that world wide there is a slave market that is legal and extremely profitable. It is called guardianship. In my article, I will give a very brief explanation of this nightmare that I have been in for 2.5 years. The victims and their loved ones will be almost powerless to escape. For much more information, visit www.protectmyparents.us In this country, the laws pertaining to how guardianship is run are extremely vague. The powers, protection and abuse of them by guardians and the courts are almost unlimited. The corruption is only for money. In Pennsylvania, there are specific rules for guardians and how guardianship must be done. It is Title 20, Section 5521. The problem is those corrupt people pretend it doesn’t exist. The lawyers for the victim’s families are very incompetent when they are dealing with the “experts” of this scam. The victims are usually elderly and have some problems with memory. Usually, a family member (brother, sister, wife, husband) will feel they are entitled to have a family member’s money now instead of waiting for the person to die. They will file a petition with the Orphans Court. The corruption begins when a corrupt judge sees that this victim has a lot of money and a house. The judge will then assign a corrupt lawyer to be the victim’s “free” lawyer, who is already in the Racket. A Racket is a group of people working together to commit a crime. Their act is called Racketeering and it is prosecuted by the government with RICO. The judge will then pick a corrupt psychologist, also in the Racket, who will do a “evaluation” of the victim to determine incapacitation. In Pennsylvania and nationwide, there are NO standards or requirements as to what must be in a “evaluation”, including how long it must be, what type of “tests” are in it, how many tests, their accuracy, if audio or videotaped, etc. If the psychologist has a doctorate and some experience with memory impaired, that is good enough to be the judge’s “expert. The victim will always be found “incapacitated”. The judge will claim because the family does not get along, a “independent” guardian must be used. There are two types of guardians: person and estate. The guardian of person deals with the health and welfare of the victim.
The guardian of estate takes total control of the victim’s assets. The usual rate for guardians is about $100 an hour or more for their “time”. Nationwide, there are NO requirements for a person to be a “guardian” to take absolute control of a person’s life and their assets. In Pennsylvania and nationwide, there are NO limits as to how many clients (victims) a guardian can have (own). It is not unusual for a guardian to have 10, 25, 50 or hundreds. Many times a guardian is both of person and estate. More clients, more money. A movie was made several years ago for Netflix called “I Care A Lot”. The movie shows what happens in most guardianships. There is basically NO protection for the victim as how they are taken care of (medically, personal care, contact with family, etc) and how their assets are abused (wasted) by the guardians of estate. The corrupt judge always gives the corrupt guardians a free pass because they are getting a part of that money. About 25 years ago, two judges in Pennsylvania were sending tens of thousands of children to a private prison for kickbacks from the owner of the prison. The case was called Kids for Cash. Another scam for money from victims. After the guardians, their lawyers, psychologist, “care manager”, lawyer of the victim, their friends, etc are hired, just like in the Mafia, they “kick back” some of the money they are paid, with their made up and never proven billing hours, to the other people in the Racket. All of those lawyers, billing the victim their rates, quickly drain the assets. The victim’s house is sold to a friend of the Racket at a extremely low price. The house is sold again at the full market price. The profit is distributed to the Racket. The family never knows the house was resold, the Racket kept the profit and the heirs are denied the money. There is so much more to this scam. This type of corruption is financial exploitation of the elderly. The very sad news is that the police, DA, attorney general and the FBI refuse to get involved. No reason given. How is this type of scam any different from any other type of scam? I welcome readers and victim’s families to contact me at tomlinher1925@tutanota.com. I have much information that can be of help that might also help their loved ones.
14 • Upper Bucks Free Press • November 2023
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: Bob Stevenson 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. Palisades Community Bible Church 8730 Easton Road Revere, PA 18953 610-847-2637 secretary@pcbchurch.com www.pcbchurch.com Pastor: Rev. Corbin Seltzer, Jr. Sunday School (all ages) 9:30am, Sunday Morning Worship 10:30am, Tuesday Prayer Meeting 7:00pm, Men & Ladies’ Bible Studies - see website. “Walk by Faith.” II Cor. 5:7
BY PASTOR JON BAUMAN Growing up in a large family during the holidays teaches you a lot of things about yourself, communication, the importance of remembering names, the science of what seat is the most strategic, and, related, the real competition for all the good sides on a Thanksgiving table. My Father grew up with six siblings, and my mother with four, so the extended family gatherings were crowded, fun, and long-lasting, and they were times for the cousins to play games, or pick on an aunt or uncle. Seating for these gatherings was a strategic matter. At the table, the younger cousins either got a clear children's table or section, or we had to decide on where to sit among all ages. We couldn't take the best chairs; those were for the older relatives. We couldn't take the secondary chairs; those were for aunts, uncles, and older cousins. Instead, we usually had to choose which plastic folding chair appeared the sturdiest, or least broken, and we tried our best to not get one in a corner. Still, even if we were crammed in a corner where we had to keep asking for the green bean casserole, or even if we joined the chorus of voices asking our grandfather or grandmother to stop getting up to help and enjoy their own meal, these are memories and experiences that we grew up to long for. Because in the hectic schedule of adult
lives, which we were sure as kids was going to be easier than going to school, we long for those times of laughter, peace, gratitude, and sharing that were experienced around that Thanksgiving table. However, I know that despite my best efforts, I will never have a Thanksgiving like that again because when I was a kid, I didn't have the same life, or responsibilities, that I do now. And further, times have changed, people have moved, others have passed on, and every time I gather at that table, I'm reminded of who is not there. Still, I strive for what was created at the Thanksgiving table of my youth because I need a reminder of what that warmth felt like when life feels so... Cold. Thanksgiving reminds us to look for the blessings within the year and to be thankful when times have been hard. Not every Thanksgiving is as inviting as that big pumpkin pie would make us hope for, but even in times when it's hard to see blessings, it reminds us to search for them. Thanksgiving reminds us of the need to thank God for all that we have, even if it's a little. Thanksgiving is a time of generosity where extra food is cooked for others to take home, where communities gather to feed those who are hungry, and where family tables are extended to include new family members, boyfriends, girlfriends, or friends. Thanksgiving, though not a religious holiday
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. 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.
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
by origin, reminds the church of what we're called to do: Take the opportunity to give glory to God, to share what God has done in our lives, to listen to those who share the same, and to feed those who are hungry, with food, and with hope. My Thanksgiving isn't as simple as it was
when I was a child, but maybe it's not meant to be. Maybe we are meant to learn as we grow how to set the table that others set for us so long ago. And maybe that's the point. Jon Bauman is the senior pastor at First United Church of Christ in Quakertown. He can be reached at jbauman@firstucc.net.
Livestream: fb.com/pennridgechristianfellowship
November 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 15
2023 Honda Pilot
Honda’s fourth-generation and top selling 2023 Pilot 3-row midsize SUV comes with a new larger design, roomier interior, increased power, added technology and an adventure-ready styling in the TrailSport model that we were privileged to test. The Pilot TrailSport not only has a macho, rugged look, but it’s shod with Continental 18inch all-terrain tires that are nine inches wide that aid in giving it a one-inch higher ground clearance. Combine that with steel skid plates over the gas tank, transmission and oil pan, plus an off-road tuned suspension, and you get true off-roading capability with the best of them. Pilot is also offered in LX, Sport, EX-L, Touring and top-tier Elite that carries an MSRP of $52,380.
Pilot TrailSport is not only larger and bolder in design, but its interior is equally as bold with hefty and heavily padded, heated leather front seats, heated steering wheel, a vivid 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto connectivity, satellite radio, TrailWatch camera system with rearview, front and side view cameras along with overhead views. The display also serves a host of apps, satellite radio, mode selections and more. In place of a transmission shift handle for the 10-speed automatic trans, Honda engineers standardized their popular SUVs with a push button gear selector for P, R, N, D/S gearing. It takes a little getting used to if coming off a shift handle. But once acclimating to them, you’d wouldn’t want to go back to the handle. Paddle shifters supplement the push button selectors. Sharing the console with the electronic shifter is a rocker-style switch for Econ, Normal, Snow, Sport, Trail, Sand and Tow modes. Selections display on the touchscreen and on the digital tachometer within the gauge cluster. There’s also wireless phone charging on the console. Speaking of the gauge cluster, the speedometer is analog and between it and the tach is a Driver Information Display for alerts, features and functions. Pilot’s one of many alerts is the lane departure warning that vibrates the drivers’ seat along with a visual warning when crossing the center highway line. With a low 19-inch step-in, the rear captains’ seats are as comfy as the fronts and they too are heavily padded. They also power slide for/aft for spacious third row access that can seat three youngsters for seven passenger TrailSport seating. Back in the spacious cargo area and with the third row upright there’s 21.8 cu. ft. of space that measures 19 inches deep, 46 wide and 31.5 high. Flip the third row and capacity expands to 48.5 cubic feet for 50 inches of cargo
loading depth. Need more space? Power down the second row and cargo capacity offers 113.7 cu. ft. for 81 inches of cargo loading depth. That’s over six feet that can accommodate a mountain bike with the front wheel off and stacked atop the bike. Beneath the cargo floor is a 7-inch deep, full-width bin for small item storage. And beneath it is a full-size spare, not a tire inflator kit as standard on some SUVs.
The 2023 Pilot comes with a new engine of sorts that produces more power to the AWD system that’s standard in the TrailSport model. The 3.5-liter V6 now generates 285-hp and 262 lb/ft of torque for EPA mileage estimates of 18 city, 23-highway mpg when routed through the new 10-speed automatic transmission with engine auto off technology. So powered, Pilot carries a tow rating of up to 5,000 pounds which can handle a small boat, ATV or utility trailer. Half and full throttle acceleration is quick and exhilarating. As a larger and heavier SUV, Pilot offers a smooth and quiet ride. Highway tar strips are merely ripples. It remains planted in sharp, tight turns and its upgraded suspension smooths off-road nasties. And it parks easily with a tight 37.7 foot turning radius. In addition to a long list of safety features such as collision mitigation braking, lane keeping assist and road departure systems Pilot comes with some nifty niceties like Traffic Jam Assist that operates the accelerator, brakes and steering in an automated-type mode. Walk Away Close is also helpful in that the tailgate will automatically close behind you if your hands are full of packages as you walk away provided the fob is on you. The Pilot TrailSport had no extra cost options because all the aforementioned and then some were standard. The only charge was for delivery that took the base price of $48,350 to $48,745. A reasonable price for a lot of SUV. Adding to its attractiveness, Pilot received IIHS’s 2023 Top Safety Pick-Plus for its Honda Sensing suite consisting of Crash Avoidance and Mitigation, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise. And NHTSA gave Pilot its 5-Star Overall Vehicle Safety Score. With all these accolades and capabilities, Pilot TrailSport is a compelling choice for the outdoors and off-road oriented family. It will also excel during deep snow that we may get this winter according to the Farmers Almanac. And less I forget, the Pilot TrailSport received several comments by folks on its attractive Diffused Sky-Blue Pearl paint job when I was filling it at local gas stations. 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.
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16 • Upper Bucks Free Press • November 2023
Valuable Weather Collectibles
Functional objects are not often viewed as collectible mainly because we use them daily, rely on them in our daily life, and don’t consider them to be precious or rare. Yet, when it comes to something so common, evident, and helpful on a daily basis, we should take a second look at such “work horse” style objects as both collectible and valuable. One thing that we all have in common is an interest in the weather. Knowing about the weather forecast is essential. We all consider it when we start our day or plan daily events. The weather sparks simple and significant decisions like taking along an umbrella, selecting specific weather appropriate clothing, or changing travel plans. The objects that help us make these decisions, ranging from weathervanes to thermometers are collectible and valuable. Weathervanes, barometers, and other weather-related collectibles that assist us throughout the seasons are collectible. Weathervanes are arguably the most popular collectibles and have a connection to our agricultural history with figural elements at top such as running horses, pigs, roosters, etc. Barometers are necessary weather instruments that measure atmospheric pressure. While people collect various types of weather instruments, thermometers are most commonly the weather collectibles of choice as they come in many types and styles. Polish physicist, Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit invented the thermometer which uses mercury in a glass tube to measures temperature. Liquid expands at a regular and measurable rate when heated, so the common thermometer uses liquid mercury in a narrow glass tube to measure heat. When heat rises, the liquid expands and climbs up the tube. The Fahrenheit and Celsius scales use degrees to measure temperature. The United States use the Fahrenheit scale to measure temperature. The word thermometer comes from the combination of
thermo (heat) and meter (measuring tool)Near Las Vegas, NV stands the world’s largest thermometer at 134 feet high. Thermometers are popular collectible souvenir objects and may be found at gift shops in famous cities and landmarks worldwide. Eiffel tower thermometers, Mt. Rushmore thermometers, Statue of Liberty thermometers, among others are popular collectibles. Advertising thermometers promoting oil companies like Esso and Exxon, soft drinks like Coca Cola and Pepsi, and other products are sought after with collectors. Some advertising thermometer signs are very valuable considering factors like condition and age. Other rare thermometers that hang on walls or decorate kitchens or garden sheds are used in private residences or homes and they are collectible too. For instance, German-made thermometers from the 1950s were made in the form of wooden cabins like cuckoo clocks with moving figures and chirping birds and hand painted porcelain manufacturers from Limoges, France produced lovely thermometers affixed to hand painted porcelain plates or wall plaques appropriate for display in kitchens during the early to mid 20th century. Also, some mid-century modern thermometers dating from the 1950s and 1960s were used in offices like the sunrays / sunburst thermometer by Cooper which resembled the wall clocks of the era. For desktop use, thermometers were attached to all types of objects. A red die thermometer made in France called the Blavia dice thermometer was all the rage and remains of interest with collectors. Often, the most common objects are the most collectible. too. Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning media personality, Dr. Lori presents antique appraisal events nationwide, appears on Netflix’s King of Collectibles, History channel’s The Curse of Oak Island and Pawn Stars do America. Visit www.DrLoriV. com, watch videos on www.YouTube.com/ DrLoriV or call (888) 431-1010.
Scales 'n Tails 4H Club Shows Off their Reptiles at Fall Festival
The Bucks County 4H Scales ‘n Tails club recently attended the Fall Festival at First Baptist Church in Lansdale and brought their reptiles to show to local kids. The members talked about their reptiles and ran several games. Lots of candy and laughs were had by all. The reptiles were enjoyed by many who encountered them. Reptile lovers are always welcome to join this fun group. If interested contact scalestailsbc4h@gmail.com. submitted photos
November 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 17
14th Annual Free Fall Event a Success
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QNB Bank Donates $4,500 to Bethlehem Library
For the past 13 years, QNB Bank has teamed up with the Lehigh Valley IronPigs to help raise money for local libraries through the “Batting for Books” campaign. On September 20 at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown, QNB donated
$4,500 to this year’s proud beneficiary, the Bethlehem Area Public Library. Since the program’s inception in 2011, QNB has donated $51,950 to local libraries.
After getting rained out like so many other events in the past several weeks, The 14th Annual Free Fall Action Sports event was held at the end of September at the skatepark on Main Street in Quakertown. It was a day filled with extreme skateboarding, scootering, BMX biking, basketball, food, and fellowship. Learn more about Free Fall at freefallqtown.com. submitted photos
The Quakertown Community High School Class of 1967 held their 55 + 1 Reunion on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at the Kulpsville Holiday Inn. The turnout was great and everyone enjoyed a wonderful evening reminiscing and catching up with “old” friends. submitted photo
18 • Upper Bucks Free Press • November 2023
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You’ve put your Flower and Veggie Gardens to bed. Houseplants that summered outside are safely returned to their inside winter home. What else to do before the first freeze of the season? Hoses: Thoroughly drain hoses and turn off outside water sources. Rain Barrels: Drain water barrels. Fill containers with rain water and store in basement or garage for use on your indoor plants. They will thank you for it. Strain barrel if it contains debris. Turn water barrel over or store for the winter. Garden Tools: Remove any soil or debris from tools. Thoroughly clean and sanitize pruners. Hand tools used for digging can be stored in a container of sand with a small amount of motor oil added. The sand and oil will keep the blades from rusting and will remove any missed debris. Cooking oil is not recommended as it will become rancid. Newly planted or tender shrubs: To protect from winter winds and to prevent desiccation surround plants with a burlap shroud. Choose four strong stakes and place around plant being careful not to damage roots. Wrap and tie or staple burlap around outside of stakes. The burlap should not touch the plant to allow it to move naturally. Do not cover the top of the plant to allow moisture to reach the roots. Mulch: A 2-3” layer of mulch around the perimeter will hold moisture and help to reduce winter heaving from freeze and thaw. Don’t cover the crown of the plant. Storing Dahlias: The first heavy frost will blacken the leaves of Dahlias. Cut the stems to 4-6” above the ground and cover tops of stem with foil to prevent rain from entering and causing rot. Wait at least a week (but before the freeze). This waiting period allows the tuber to produce “eyes” necessary for next year’s bloom. After a week remove the tubers with a fork by gently digging all around the stem approximately 12” from the stem. Pull back on the fork while gently pulling on the stem to lift the tuber from the soil. Using a spade increases the chance of cutting into the tuber and causing damage. A cracked or broken tuber will not be viable and should be discarded. Remove any loose soil and place the tubers on newspaper in a cool dry place to dry. Discard any shriveled tubers or those showing signs of fungus or rot. Some experts suggest using a fungicide to prevent rot before storage. It is acceptable to separate the tubers to produce additional plants by cutting the tubers so that each piece has at least one “eye”. It is also acceptable to do this prior to planting. Layer the tubers in peat moss, vermiculite or wrap in newspaper. Mark the tubers to make identification easier in the spring. You can
write directly on the tuber with a permanent marker or enclose a waterproof label with each type. Store in containers in a cool dry place with optimal temperature between 40-45 degrees. Do not allow temperature to go below 40 degrees. Using a thermometer to monitor temperature is recommended. Check the tubers periodically over the winter and discard any tubers showing rot.
Storing Cannas, Gladiolus, Caladiums or other tender bulbs: Dig bulbs after first hard frost, but before a hard freeze. Dry on newspaper for about a week then remove any excess soil. Place bulbs in a netted bag and hang or place in a basket or container with peat moss and store between 45-50 degrees. Monitor periodically and remove any bulbs showing signs of rot or shriveling. Spotted Lanternfly Update: Females are laying their eggs and will soon die. It seems that pregnant females are sluggish because they are heavy with eggs and are easier to squash. Continue to kill as many as possible. Look for egg masses where you have seen adults congregating. Remember that they will lay eggs on fences, patio furniture, campers or any available surface, not just trees. Scrape the egg sacs into a plastic bag with a small amount of alcohol or hand sanitizer, double bag and discard. For how to recognize and remove the egg masses review this Penn State publication: t.ly/OrTPt Our home Garden/Watershed hotline is still open! Emails are still being answered by our trained Master Gardeners and Master Watershed Stewards. For fastest service use email. You can still call if you prefer. Leave a message and we will return your call. “Ask a Master Gardener/Watershed Steward” Penn State Extension Bucks County BucksMG@psu.edu • Phone: 267-483-2020 576 Penns Park Road, Newtown, PA 18940 Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!
November 2023 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 19
Playing Football in Quakertown Sunday, we were watching the Philadelphia Eagles (pronounced: ‘Fluffya Iggles’, in Philly). After a helmet-cracking punt return, I said to my wife: “That’s how I broke my arm in tenth grade. Did I tell you that story?” “Probably,” she grunted, but I told her again, anyway. After that, every play reminded me of some episode in my Glory Days playing football in Quakertown. I first remember a neighborhood game with my dad in the Neidig schoolyard. I was about ten. My dad was a high school football star but got fat. He, Dr. Zapp, Bill Lewis, and a couple other neighborhood dads were challenged by some high school guys. I got to play defense but was too small to catch-up or tackle anybody. The game really got rough. We were getting creamed. So, when their loudmouthed hotshot ran past, I tripped him. He cartwheeled, hit hard and fumbled. My dad explained tackling rules but was grinning. We only played once because Mr. Lewis sprained his knee, my dad got separated ribs and the rest of our team (except me), was too sore. I played midget football in Quakertown one year. I weighed, 89 1/2 pounds but hadn’t played football before so they started me on the 85lb team. I was pretty good, was fast and in on every tackle. My dad and coaches cheered me. I had ten days to get down to 85lbs. I starved myself but at weigh-in, just missed it. They immediately sent me to a 90lb team practice. They were bigger, I was weak from my fasting and was the ‘new-guy’, so they beat the hell out of me. I was so disappointed and depressed, I quit. My mom, humiliatingly, made me return my equipment in front my old team and coach. I played 7th & 8th grade football for Quakertown Junior High. It was still on 7th Street and in the old Central and Lincoln Buildings. “Spider” Meyers was a coach. During a drill, I ran head first into a guy, saw a flash, blacked out for a second and fell backwards. The coach was yelling, “Great hit!” as I was coming around. Our 9th grade team (class of 1969), was fantastic [Unbeaten, unscored upon, averaged 33 points/game]. So, everybody wanted to play football. Equipment was short. When the principal saw me wearing two different shoes, he called off our scrimmage with Pennbrook. They cut some guys, but I was pretty good and got matching spikes. We won most of our games. Mine was the first 9th grade in the senior high building (class of 1970). Roland Landis, Bob Coleman, and Woody McWhorter coached football. I played guard, linebacker, and special teams. I scored my only touchdown that year. As offside guard, I blocked then trailed along on our running back’s 75 yard break. They caught him at the five and stripped the ball. It rolled into the end zone.
Their guy yelled, “Fumble!” but I was coming full speed and dove under him before he could fall on the ball. Coach Landis was jumping up and down and landed on my foot with his spikes, but I got my name in the Free Press. That year, Mr. Landis called me ‘Superman of the track team’ at the awards assembly, so I don’t remember as much about my football season. We did win most of our games. In 10th grade, I had Dick Wisnesky, as head coach. We weren’t as good anymore because most Buxmont districts had several junior high schools to draw players from. We just had one so the same old guys played. And, a couple good guys couldn’t play because of academic problems. We still won half the time. I was one of four sophomores to make the varsity squad, but they lost most of their games. As I told my wife, “On a practice punt, I was ‘spy’ and sprinted straight for the returner. I got there just as the defensive ‘wedge’ was forming, squeezed through and got my hand on the ball-carrier. I swung him around and down. He landed on top of me. I felt a sprain, like bending back your thumb, but my left arm, just above the wrist, wasn’t straight anymore. Both bones were broken and out of alignment. It didn’t hurt at first, even when Mr. Wisnesky pulled on my hand. By the time the ambulance came and took me to Quakertown Hospital (then on Park Ave), it sure hurt. I had to wait till morning to have it set. Pain pills didn’t help much and it swelled up huge. Orthopedists finally put me under and set it. When I came to, it immediately felt much better but I stayed in the hospital another night. I had an L-shaped cast for eight weeks, got an automatic ‘C’ in Typing, and ended up with three consecutive Study-Halls on Friday afternoons [I never had weekend homework but got detention once for just going home early]. I still was on the sidelines at home football games and sometimes did the first down markers.” In 11th grade, Frank Prush was our new coach. The varsity squad lost most of their games. But our JV team only lost once; to CB West [14 to 13—our kicker missed a PAT], and were Buxmont Co-Champs with them [they lost to Hatboro]. But then, we had sophomores Kenny Schroy and Jeff Barndt as running backs that year. Both became stars in Quakertown Football history. I still played guard and linebacker and got Letters for football and track that year. It was my last football season, though I hurt my knee that summer, had surgery in November and didn’t play football my senior year. Instead, I was co-captain of the track team with Dave Clymer in 1970. [We won half the time]. I went to Pitt Main Campus that fall and wasn’t nearly good enough to play football or track there. And now you know just about all there is to my Glory Days playing football in Quakertown. Jack Schick is a long time Quakertown area resident and regular contributor here at
UBFP. Reach him at sjckschc@aol.com
Advocates for the Homeless Seek Volunteers
Volunteers are needed to support the mission of the Advocates for the Homeless of Upper Bucks (AHUB). AHUB is a non-profit organization which serves the needs of the homeless of the Quakertown, Pennridge, and the Palisades areas. One program under AHUB is a volunteer staffed community ministry called Code Blue which provides shelter and a warm bed and meal to the homeless of Upper Bucks County on cold winter nights when the temperature is 26 degrees or below.
This shelter is located at the Masonic Lodge in downtown Quakertown. After a very successful ten years for the program, we hope to broaden our volunteer base for this upcoming winter. Opportunities include: Shelter Admissions staff, Overnight staff, Morning Aide, and more. Season runs from November 15, 2023 to April 15, 2024. Consider volunteering with AHUB. Contact ahubpa@gmail.com to learn about opportunities. You can also reach us at 267410-0366, but e-mail is preferred.
20 • Upper Bucks Free Press • November 2023
Sea of Blue Campaign in Full Gear! On Thanksgiving Day, November 23th, we will hand out 1600 to 1800 Blue t-shirts at the Thanksgiving Day Football Game hosted this year by Pennridge. Our plan is to turn the entire Visitor side of the stadium BLUE to show our true hometown colors and represent our team at the game. This will be the 9th installment of what has been called “The Flood” for our local Thanksgiving Day Game tradition. Since beginning in 2014, nearly 16,000 shirts have been handed out and the shirt will be seen every day around the Quakertown Community and beyond. (They’re fun to wear in Pennridge territory, too!) In fact, many of our shirts from past years are still seen being worn all over the place. People often tell us that these are their favorite shirts! It is a walking billboard that shows your support for Quakertown Community High School’s athletic and music programs. What we are asking of you as a local business is to help us show your support and sponsor the Sea of Blue shirts with your logo or business name. If you are a Quakertown alumnus, we’ll want to include your year of graduation as well
as those of your family members! The cost to be a shirt sponsor is $250, which is tax deductible as an ordinary business advertising expense. Checks should be made payable to: The Free Press LLC with “Sea of Blue 2023” in the memo section. Deadline to get on the “The Sea of Blue IX” shirts is November 8, 2023. Space is limited! Catch the wave now! As a bonus, the Upper Bucks Free Press will feature your business with all of the Sea of Blue sponsors in the December issue. But really, the best part aside from showing enormous Quakertown Pride is that some of the proceeds will be donated back to the Quakertown High School Football Booster Club, Cheerleading Teams, and Music Program via sponsorship of their events and programs. If you were on the 2022 shirts, you’ll see your business in the QMPO and QCHS Football programs! We look forward to you helping to represent our local High School teams and show off “Our True Blue Colors!” Please contact us at seaofblue@freepressllc.com or call 267-379-3590 x10.
