The Market is collecting gently used, clean coats for local families. Bagged donations can be dropped off at the
10/11-11/17 The Market is collecting nonperishable items for the Food Pantry. Donations can be dropped off at the office.
Thanksgiving Food Drive
10/12 9am-2pm 100+ cars & trucks! The show is free to attend or $15 to register your vehicle.
Event Room #201. Bring your treasures to learn their value! $20 for 2 items. “Antiques Roadshow” Style Appraisal Event 10/26 10am-4pm. Captain Jack Sparrow and his crew are taking over the Market! The Captain will dock his 30 Foot Black Pearl Ship. Pirate Invasion The captain is looking for a new crew! He'll be training crew members, teaching them pirate talk, magic, and pirate face painting! Games, prizes, and sales for the day! Plus, find all 10 hidden treasure chests to enter to win the Captain’s Treasure Chest valued at $500+. Rain Date: 10/27
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?
SIGN UP NOW for Nov 20, Hunterdon Hills Playhouse Christmas Show w/UB Activity Center. Depart 10am, $129/person. Holiday/ Dance Fest. Caroling, skits, live orchestra. Includes driver tip and a meal. 215-536-3066. Must pay 1 to 1 ½ months before trip.
Perkasie Farmer’s Market- Farms, Food & Live Music every Sat 9am-12noon in October at 7th St. Perkasieborough.org
FRESH CONNECT Bucks County free farmers market for eligible Bucks County residents every Wed 11am-1pm at Quakertown Memorial Park, 600 W Mill St. Walk Through Method. FMI: 215-536-0353
FRESH CONNECT Bucks County free farmers market 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
September 27
Raise Up Our Youth Family Night 5pm7:30pm at Quakertown YMCA, 401 Fairview Ave. Free Event. Inflatable, arts/crafts, games, food trucks. Facebook: Raise Up Our Youth Family Night
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” -Free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanutfree crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
September 27 to 29
“Thumbs” is a comedy thriller recommended for ages 16+ at DCP Theatre, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Performance dates: Fri/Sat at 8pm. Sun at 2pm. Tickets: dcptheatre.org/buytickets
2024 Quakertown Jet Jam, Fri/Sat 9am5pm, Sun 9am-3pm. No entrance fee. See radio control jets in flight. John P. Fritzges Memorial Flying Field, Kumry & Rosenberger Rds, Quakertown
September 27 to October 5
Used Book Sale at Upper Perkiomen Valley Library, 350 Main St, Red Hill. Mon to Thu 9am-7pm, Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-2pm. Two Day Bag Sale Fri & Sat, bag provided. 215679-2020
September 28
“Glenn Pritchard” Outdoor Concert 11am1pm at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown
‘Blessing of the Animals’ 10am-12noon at Grace United Methodist, 295 S Main St, Telford. Blessings shared by Pastor John of Grace UMC & Pastor Bill of St. Paul’s Church. Craft Show & Marketplace Fundraiser 10am-3pm (r/s) at Peace Lutheran, 100 Old Bethlehem Rd, Perkasie. Showcase works of Bucks County & eastern PA’s talented artists. FMI peace-tohickon.org/craft-show/ Feline Frenzy Music Festival 3pm-9pm with Wheatus, Away Message and Kitty Rotten. Tickets: $20/Eventbrite, $25/at door. Univest Center, 301 W Mill St, Quakertown. Benefits Feline Frenzy Cat Rescue.
Jack-O-Lantern 5K & 10K begins 8am at Richland Twp Fire/Rescue, 64 Shelly Rd, Quakertown. $30/adults, $15/ages 10-19, free/ages 2-9. Check for current prices. FMI: JOLRaceDirector@gmail.com or check on Facebook.
“It’s A Tail-wagging Good Time” Fall Festival 10am-5pm (r/s) at Lower Milford Twp Building, 7607 Chestnut Hill Church Rd, Coopersburg. Scarecrow building, food trucks, vendors, Cutest Pet Photo Contest & more. FMI 610-967-4949
Flea Market 9am-2pm at Dublin Fire Co, 194 N Main St. Breakfast & lunch are available. R/D Oct 5
Fall Vendor Craft Show 9am at Benner Hall, 1260 Cherry St, Quakertown. 20+ tables.
Indoor Craft Show & Flea Market 8am2pm at Good Shepherd Church, 1634 Hilltown Pike, Hilltown. goodshepherdhilltown.org
Harvest Festival 12noon-5pm at St. Andrew’s Lutheran, 20 Dill Ave, Perkasie. Food, music, games, petting zoo, vendors. WWWA Wrestling 6:30pm Bell Time at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. Room 201. Live pro wrestling from Stars of WWWA. Tickets $20 or $25 for front row. Buy at Raceplace Dept 210 or WWWA Office at 215-362-7184.
September 28 & 29
Fall Craft & Vendor Show 11am-4p both days at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. $30/10x10 space for 1 day, $50/ space for 2 days. Registration: 215-536-4115 or sara@quakertownfarmersmkt.com
September 29
Fall In Love Adoption Event! 12noon at Quakertown Veterinary Clinic, 2250 N Old Bethlehem Pike, Quakertown. Meet available kittens & Milo, a 1-yr-old Husky X. Information: Sabrina 215-536-6245
Designer Bag Bingo, open 11:30am, games 1pm. Sellersville Firehouse, 2 N Main St. $40/adv, $50/door if available. Extras: raffles, 50/50, Grand Prize Game. All must have ticket. ladiesaux@sellersvillefd.com or 215-257-4028 Ext 6
Mustang Club Cruise Night 4pm-7pm, Country Square Shopping Center, 240-3 S West End Blvd (Rt 309), Quakertown. All makes/models. DJ music, trophies, 50/50, food available. No alcohol! Donation requested per car. Gary 610-737-6372
Great Swamp Farmer’s Day 12noon-5pm at Great Swamp Fish & Game, 2650 Schukraft Rd, Quakertown. Food, Beer, Hay Rides, Raffles, Meat Wheel & Chili Contest. FMI/ register for Contest: 215-536-8820
September 30
Keystone Quilters Meeting 7pm (open 6:30) at St. John’s Lutheran Activity Center, 26 1st Ave, Richlandtown. Guest Fee/$10. Program: My Quilting Journey by Andrea Hoke. Keystonequilters.org
October 1
Rotary Club of Quakertown meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month 7:30am-8:30am at John’s Plain & Fancy Restaurant, Rt 309, Quakertown. FMI call Todd Baringer 610-360-9572. Also meets 10/15.
October 3
Order Hoagies by today for pickup Oct 17 (1pm-3pm) Upper Bucks Activity Center. 12-inch hoagies, $7 each, must pay when ordering. FMI/order: Sara 215-536-3066 or stop in at the Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown
Upper Bucks Sertoma Club will treat you to breakfast. We meet Thursday mornings 7:308:30am at The Karlton Café in Quakertown. Also meets Oct 10, 17, 24, 10/31. Join us!
‘Biz & Brews’ 4:30pm-6:30pm Networking with a Cause. Cash bar, free apps & chances for 50/50 or raffle at The Proper Brewing Company, 117 W Broad St, Quakertown. Free for UBCC Members, $25/Future members. RSVP at 215-536-3211 or ubcc.org/events
October 4
Order Hoagies by today for pickup Oct 14 at Trumbauersville Fire Co. To order call Karen at 267-372-1404
“The Way We Were” Free movie matinee 2pm-4pm every Friday at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages with lids are welcome. Chronic Disease Classes by Bucks County Area Agency on Aging. 6-weeks starting Oct 4 on Fridays from 9am-11:30am. Call Senior Center 215-536-3066 for info & to sign up. Upper Bucks Senior Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown
October 4 & 5
“Love, Loss and What I Wore” performances 7:30pm both days at DCP Theatre, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Adult language & themes! $22/ per person includes refreshments. Ticket info: 215-234-0966
October 4, 5, 6
Grand Movie Theater’s 100 Year Celebration Weekend (1924 to 2024) at 252 Main St, East Greenville. Check out: thegrandtheater.org for activities and current movies, etc.
October 5
51st Apple Butter Frolic 10am-4pm at The Mennonite Heritage Center, 565 Yoder Rd, Harleysville. Learn about daily life skills in 18th & 19th centuries. $10/age 17+, $2/ages 6-16, free under 6. Rain or shine. NO pets. Crossroads Pregnancy Care 5K Run & Walk at The Park at 4th, Quakertown. Register online: Crossroads5K.com and join us as we run & walk to support LIFE!
‘ThinkHope Run’ -5K Run or 1K Walk, 8am-12noon at Peace Valley Park, 264 Creek Rd, Doylestown. $40/Run, $20/ Walk. Registration: thinkhope.org FMI: 215-815-7760 or InfoThinkHope@gmail.com
Low Cost Fall Vaccine Clinic 11am3pm at Last Chance Ranch, 9 Beck Rd, Quakertown. Also Heartworm test for dogs, FIV & Leukemia tests for cats. Microchipping, Flea/Tick & Heartworm Preventatives. FMI 215-538-2510 for prices.
Fall Festival 11am-6pm at Zion Lutheran, 2966 Old Bethlehem Pike, Zion Hill. Public is welcome. Music, food, games, cake walk, craft show and Richland Township’s New Fire Truck. Profits go to help pay for it.
Pig Roast 1pm-6pm at Trumbauersville Betterment Club, 2000 Oak Dr, Trumbauersville. Open to the public! Indoor/ outdoor seating, Live Entertainment, Silent Auction, Games/Crafts, Domestic Drafts, 2nd Annual Basket Raffle 10am-2pm at Lower Milford Fire Company, 1601 Limeport Pike, Coopersburg. chestnuthillchurch.org
October Sunset Social & Baking Competition 6pm-8:30pm on 5th St from Broad to Juniper, Quakertown. “A Pumpkin a Day Keeps the Goblins Away.” Come in costume for fun! Music, food and more.
October 5 & 6
Alpaca Fall Festival 10am-4pm r/s at Harley Hill Farm, 451 Kellers Rd, Quakertown. Free Event! Feed alpacas, pick a pumpkin, flowers, games, hot dogs, more. Bring a non-perishable item for local food banks. See us on Facebook.
Traveling Lionel “O” Gauge Toy Train Layout. Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 1pm-4pm at Schwenkfelder Heritage Center, 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. Interactive attraction, many designed to be operated by the viewers. 215-679-3103
October 6
2024 ‘Celebration of Cars’ Benefit Car Show 9am-1pm at A&T Subaru, 801 Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville. Register: CarShowPro. com/event/1933. DJ, Food Truck. FMI: ATAUTOS.com or 215-257-8022
Perkasie’s 23rd Fall Festival 12noon4pm at Menlo Park & Town Center, 620 W Chestnut St. Contact 215-257-5065 or events@perkasieborough.org. Free bus shuttles between Menlo Park & Town Center. Bingo Fundraiser for Memorial Culinary Scholarship, open 12noon, games 1pm at Sellersville Moose, 301 W Park Ave. Tickets $35/adv, $40/door. Cash only, ATM available. UBCTS Food Truck here. No outside food or drink.
Ghost Tours 6pm at Pearl S. Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. (recommended for ages 13+) Hear real-life ghostly encounters experienced here. Tickets: pearlsbuck.org/ ghost-tours/
NAMI Bucks County STRIDE for Mental Health Awareness. 5K or 3K Walk, 1pm at Warminster Community Park, 350 E Bristol Rd, Warminster. Food, fun, resources & recovery. FMI: namibucksstride.org
October 9
Halloween Party 11:30am, Upper Bucks Senior Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown. Lunch Buffet $17/person. Then 2 hours of music with DJ George Bruneio. Door Prizes, Raffle Basket, 50/50. Sign up by Oct 3. 215-536-3066.
Woman’s Club of Indian Valley meets 1pm at Telford Community Building, 125 Hamilton Ave, Telford. “Aging out of Foster Care” presented by Mel McDaniel of Marvin’s House. FMI: FB page or call 862-251-3076. Prospective members welcome! Fire Prevention Open House/Trunk or Treat, 6pm at Milford Twp Fire Co, 2185 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown. Penny Party Fundraiser opens 5pm at St. John the Baptist Church, 4050 Durham Rd, Ottsville. Door prizes, 50/50, extravaganza table. Under age 16 not admitted. Benefits Knights of Columbus #4545. 215- 983 -1255
October 10
17th Annual Upper Bucks Foodie 5:30pm8pm at Sands Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, 501 N West End Blvd, Quakertown. $45/adv, $50/ door. Ticket info: 215-536-3211 or ubcc.org
October 10, 11, 12
Yard Sale/Bake Sale held at 1104 W Broad St, Quakertown. Benefits St. John’s Lutheran Church. R/D next week. FMI Nancy Ackerman 215-536-4353
October 11
“The Hustler” Free movie matinee 2pm-4pm every Friday at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome. Chicken BBQ 4pm-7pm, Dine-In or DriveThru at Quakertown Christian School, 50 E Paletown Rd, Quakertown. $15/meal. FMI 215-536-6970 or QuakertownChristian.org
‘Beef & Beverage’ for QCHS Cheer, 6:30pm-10:30pm at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry St, Quakertown. Tickets: $40/adv, $45/door. DJ, Door prizes, 50/50, Raffles. FMI contact at qchscheerpco@gmail.com Senior
Last day until 2025.
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?
October 11 & 12
31st Haunted Hayride 7pm-10pm at Tylersport Fire Co, 125 Ridge Rd, Tylersport. Tickets/$10, Kids under 5 are free. Complimentary apple cider & marshmallows by the fire after your ride. FMI 215-257-5900. Event is also Oct 18 & 19.
Star Struck Quilt Show. Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm at Finland Mennonite, 1750 Ziegler Rd, Pennsburg. NACQJ judged show, Demos, Vendors, Raffles, Food. $10 admission, under 12 free. Keystonequilters.org, 610-282-0651
October 12
4th Annual Jason Kutt Legacy Car Show 12noon at The Home Depot, 782 PA-113, Souderton. Special guests, music, raffles, food, vendors & trophies. Pre-register $12, Day of show $15. Ron Kutt 267-718-8604. R/D Oct 13 noon-4pm
Electronic Waste Recycling Event 9am12noon at Springfield Elementary School, 1950 Rt 212, Quakertown. All Bucks County residents are welcome. Questions? 610-3466700 or springfieldbucks.org
‘Ask A Teen Technology Help’ 2pm4pm at Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St. Questions: 215-536-3306. Register: tinyurl. com/askateen
LCR Gift Card Bingo, open 5pm, games 6pm at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown. Tickets $35 in advance. 15 games, 4 specials additional cost. Win $100 gift cards. Ticket info: 215-538-2510, lastchanceranch.org
Apple Festival 10am-3pm at Lutz-Franklin Schoolhouse, 4216 Countryside Lane, Hellertown. Free admission. Crafts, tours, face painting, music, apple tasting and more.
October 13
Cash Bingo, open noon, games 1pm, Perseverance Fire Co, 266 N Second St, Souderton. $25/tickets at door only. Raffles, Door prizes, Refreshments. No alcohol. Bring non-perishable food item for entry into a special game. 215-723-3167
Ghost Tours 6pm at Pearl S. Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. (recommended for ages 13+) Hear real-life ghostly encounters experienced here. Tickets: pearlsbuck.org/ ghost-tours/
October 14 Columbus Day
October 17
COVID or FLU Vaccine Clinic 9am11:30am at Upper Bucks Senior Center. Call for more info: 215-536-3066.
October 18
Medicare Open Enrollment 10am-12noon and 2pm done by Giant Pharmacy at Upper Bucks Senior Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown. Call 215-536-3066 for information.
“The Sting” Free movie matinee 2pm-4pm every Friday at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
Ghost Tours 6pm or 7pm at Pearl S. Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. (recommended for ages 13+) Hear real-life ghostly encounters experienced here. Tickets: pearlsbuck.org/ghost-tours/
Souderton 3rd Fridays. Friends gather to shop & enjoy good music & food along Main St. Local crafters, Kid’s Zone, art galleries open late. Well-behaved, leashed dogs welcome. FMI: www.3rdFri.com
October 18 & 19
‘31st Haunted Hayride’ at Tylersport Fire Co, 125 Ridge Rd, Tylersport. Tickets/$10, Kids under 5 are free. Complimentary apple cider & marshmallows by the fire after your ride. FMI 215-257-5900.
October 19
Autumn Alive! 10am-4pm in Downtown Quakertown. Entertainment, Pet Parade, Crafters/Vendors, Food, Beer/Wine Tasting. FMI quakertownalive.com or 215-536-2273
Quakertown HS Swim Team ‘Clothing Drive’ in partnership with Autumn Alive, 10am-3pm at Quaker Village Shopping Center, W Broad St, Quakertown. Please donate gently worn clothing to benefit those in need. Oktoberfest 12noon-4pm at J. S. Stover Beverage, 115 S 4th St, Telford. Live Music, Chili Cook-off, German Traditions, Beer Tasting. Tickets: $5. Telfordhappenings@ gmail.com or 267-281-4096
Turkey Dinner, all you can eat, Buffet Style 4pm-7pm or sold out. Trinity Great Swamp UCC, 9150 Spinnerstown Rd, Spinnerstown. $15/adult, $10/ages 4-12. Free/ages to 3. FMI 267-374-0590.
Penny Party 6pm, Haycock Township Community Center, 1014 Old Bethlehem Rd. Open 5pm, $5 at door, limited seating. Tickets sold, no change needed. Refreshments sold. Prizes. Raffle Baskets & 50/50. fundraisingcommittee@haycockfire.org
Craft Show 9am-2pm at Grace United Methodist, 295 S Main St, Telford. Crafts, baked goods & more. Vendors $25/space. 215-723-2144
October 20
55th Annual Quakertown Halloween Parade begins 2pm on Juniper St 3rd to 11th St to Broad St. More on FB, Quakertown.org/HalloweenParade. Participants & Sponsors wanted!
October 23
Hilltown Twp Historical Society, Program 7pm, Township Municipal Building, 13 W Creamery Rd & Rt 152. History of the Doan Gang (British loyalists) & their activities around Bucks County in the 1700s. FMI 267-614-9174 or hilltownhistory.org
October 25
“Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” Free movie matinee 2pm-4pm every Friday at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
Trick-or-Treat from Trunk-to-Trunk
6:30pm-8pm at Upper Bucks Christian School, 754 E Rockhill Rd, Sellersville. In school parking lot between gym & soccer field. Free, open to public. Festive trunks, food truck, hot dogs, free photo booth, more. 215-536-9200
October 25 & 26
2024 Fall Rummage Sale! Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 9am-12noon. Saturday is Bag Day! Clothing, jewelry, household items, toys, lunch & bake sale. Quakertown United Methodist, 1875 Freier Rd, Quakertown. FMI call Becky Petko 215-896-7055
"Run with the Big Dogs" Parade and Run through Richlandtown to thank past, present, and future members of the military. 9am-11am. Starts at 112 Union Street East, ends at Benner Hall. Food & drinks available afterward at The West End on Route 309. Check Facebook for more details or contact Wayne Codner at 718-710-3771 or w.codner4rb@gmail.com
October 27
‘Trunk or Treat’ 3pm at Christ’s Lutheran, 218 E Broad St, Trumbauersville. Don’t forget your costume. 215-536-3193 to host a trunk.
October 25, 26, 27
Ghost Tours 6pm or 7pm at Pearl S. Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. (recommended for ages 13+) Hear real-life ghostly encounters experienced here. Tickets: pearlsbuck.org/ghost-tours/ October 26
Free ‘License Plate Replacement Event’ 10am-12noon at Borough Building, 35 N 3rd St, Quakertown. Borough Police Officer on site to assist you. Register at RepStaats.com/events
Household Hazardous Waste Collection
8:30am-2pm, rain/shine at Strayer Middle School, 1200 Ronald Reagan Dr, Quakertown. Check Buckscounty.gov/recycling or 215-3453400 for what you can or cannot bring.
Fall Craft Show/Pirate Invasion-Free Event 10am-4pm at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Captain Jack Sparrow, 30 foot pirate ship, pirate training, face painting, animatronic skeletons, entertainment by Main Deck Productions.
Spooktacular Halloween Party 11am-1pm at Sellersville Firehouse, 2 N Main St. Trunk-orTreat in parking lot, Fire Dept demos, Treats, Drinks, Games, Free Halloween costumes. Parking at Poppa Joe’s Grove. Wear a costume! Fall Festival Trunk or Treat 2pm-6pm at The Park at 4th, 501 W Mill St, Quakertown. Also hayrides, petting zoo, caution tape maze, 5 moon bounces, raffle, games, contests, lots more. FMI 215-536-5001
October 28
Keystone Quilters Meeting, open 6:30pm, meeting 7pm at St. John’s Lutheran Activity Center, 26 1st Ave, Richlandtown.
“Scrapstastic Quilts”-Actually using Your Scraps with Janelea MacBeth. Guest Fee $10. Keystonequilters.org
October 31 Halloween
November 1
Order Hoagies by today for pickup Nov 11 at Trumbauersville Fire Co. To order call Karen at 267-372-1404
“Death on the Nile” Free Movie Matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. 215-257-9718. Peanut-free snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
November 3 Daylight saving time enDs 8th Annual Designer Bag Bingo Fundraiser 1pm-4pm at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown. 267-227-0186 or quakertownoutreach@gmail.com
November 5 eleCtion Day
November 8
“Crooked House” Free Movie Matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. 215-257-9718. Peanut-free snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
November 9
Coopersburg Historical Society presentation on Zinc Mining and President Engine. 2:00 pm at St. John's 538 Thomas St., Coopersburg. FREE event! Membership meeting preceding at 1:00 p.m.
Residential Real Estate Showing Resilience into the Fall
The residential real estate market in Bucks County, PA, has been showing signs of resilience and gradual shifts through mid2024 and into the Fall.
As of the summer months, home prices have continued to experience steady growth, though at a more moderate pace compared to the rapid increases seen in previous years. The average home prices in Bucks County have increased slightly yearover-year, maintaining the region's status as a sought-after area for buyers, particularly those moving from urban centers like Philadelphia.
However, the market is also seeing a slight increase in inventory levels, which could indicate a shift towards a more balanced market. This contrasts with the tight inventory seen in the previous years, which had driven up competition among buyers. The higher inventory levels may offer more options for buyers but could also signal a cooling trend in price growth.
Sales activity remains stable, with homes continuing to sell relatively quickly, although the average days on market has seen a slight increase, giving buyers a bit more time to make decisions. Interest rates remain a key factor, with potential buyers and sellers closely monitoring rate changes to gauge their impact on affordability and market dynamics.
Overall, while the Bucks County residential market is still robust, these subtle changes suggest that it may be shifting from the extremely competitive conditions of the past few years toward a more normalized state. Let’s Connect! I love our phone calls, coffee dates, & house visits with people I know and those I have yet to meet. I’m excited for the opportunity to connect with you! Please call me at 215-872-9865 today!.
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
4th Annual Cars for a Cause
Thousands of people turned out in downtown Quakertown for the 4th Annual Cars for a Cause Show in September. Each year, the Plaza Knights use this large event as a fundraiser for a local non-profit organization. This year, The Autism Society of Lehigh Valley was the beneficiary. Local businesses were invited to sponsor awards for their favorite cars. The 'Best in Show,' chosen by representatives of The Autism Society, was Jesse Schneck’s 1935 Ford Street Rat. photo by michele buono
Members of Trumbauersville Borough Council, staff, and volunteers fed some hungry and generous members of the community at the borough's annual Pancake Breakfast September 21. As a result, 117 lbs of food and over $500 was donated to Feast Food Pantry. photo by christopher betz
Deer Hunting Memories
The first day of Buck season was a given holiday included with the Thanksgiving Holiday period in the days I attended school. The main reason that this was added was because absenteeism would have been record breaking had they not given that day off.
Pheasant Hunting was beyond belief in this area of Upper Bucks County still composed of small family farms back in that period of time. Deer hunting was just becoming popular as the deer population was just starting to increase in this area. Some of us would go out hunting in Haycock, along the Delaware River, or on farms with wood patches of people we knew with our shotguns with rifled slugs on that day. A few would go along with their parents or uncles to deer camp and “take off” a few more days and go to “The mountains” hunting. My buddy Sam Kile would take off a few days and hunt with his uncle up at “Hickory Run” in the Poconos. Yes, that was a good distance to travel to hunt back in
that period of time. One of his last wishes before he passed away was that I would hang the beautiful mount of his 8 point buck that was mounted by Mr. Hafler of Quakertown on a beautifully carved with oak leaves and acorns on a solid oak board at our mountain home getaway. It still is hanging in our second bedroom upstate.
When I started working, I bought a lever action rifle and would arrange for vacation so I could have at least 3 days of deer hunting. I too, hunted the woods around Hickory Run State Park. I also hunted with my neighbor and friend Larry Schreier around our home territory in Richland Township. We had one memorable hunt where we followed a buck on a snow day off from school. We started following that deer in the area around our home in California (Richland Twp.), even crossing the 309 near the intersection of Pumping Station Road and finally scored on a harvest of a 6 pointer near Rush’s Dam on the Mill Hill near Milford Square in Milford Twp. around 4:00 PM that night! We had to walk to a friend’s house to call Larry’s dad to bring his truck to pick it up. Today there is no way we could have hunted this area so freely with shopping centers and
developments and so many private owners and safety zones that would have prevented such a hunt.
After I was discharge from the Army in 1967, I started to hunt up in Potter County. I had purchased a Weatherby .300 Magnum while stationed in Germany. The first hunt I went on to Potter County I harvested a small buck and realized it was too powerful a rifle for whitetail deer hunting. I then bought a Remington 30-06 at Bleam’s Sport Shop in Richland Township. Later on after marriage I used the Weatherby on quite a few hunting trips to Wyoming on Mule Deer hunts where it was more practical to use. My wife, who hunts with me, claimed my 30-06 and that is her rifle to this day. I had to buy another deer hunting rifle to use for whitetail deer.
As age crept up on us, the annual trips to Wyoming (14 in all) came to an end and we investigated hunts in New Brunswick, Alberta, and South Carolina. Because of cost and ease of travel we have settled on annual or close to annual trips to the South. Besides, the venison is soo-good on the smaller deer of the south because of what they eat. On one trip I harvest a 7-point buck in the morning and surprisingly a big 6-pointer was hot on a doe’s trail in the afternoon and he too went to the butcher. I related this to our local game warden about 5 weeks later, not saying they were shot legally accordingly to South Carolina’s law. He had me repeat my story then before he finished loosing his smile, I mentioned
they were shot in South Carolina. He got quite a laugh from this. At age eighty I am schedule to once again head down south on another hunt in a few weeks.
Three of our hunting partners are no longer with us and this brings to mind what hunting is all about. Down south they drive you to a stand, bring your rifle up to you after making sure you are safely in your stand, and after you harvest the deer help locate it, drag it to the truck, and make sure you are safely out of the stand.
As the sun rises in the morning, and the squirrels, bobwhites, Carolina wrens, wild turkeys visit your area; you might see some deer. Just being out with nature is what is so peaceful and rewarding. We have spent thousands of hours out there and regardless to the fact of harvesting a deer for venison that we really like; there is nothing like those quiet hours spent in the wild. Also the comradely of your hunting partners in the times not hunting can’t be matched for fun and relaxation. Our life is so engrained with this way of life and that is why our second home is in “The Pa. Wilds” among our beautiful population of the Pa. Wild Elk Herd. I will have an article about how we have been taken in by this Pennsylvania treasure in the near future.
Dick helM iS a long tiMe QuakeRtown aRea ReSiDent anD RegulaR contRibutoR heRe at ubfp. Reach hiM at Rbh9@veRizon net
June Marie Betson, 72, of Quakertown, passed away on September 6, 2024. She was born in Philadelphia on May 18, 1952 to the late James and June (Lamb) Johnston. June was the loving wife to Michael Carl Betson for 40 years until his passing in 2023. She had a love for her family, her sons, her grandchildren, and all the animals she came across. June is survived by her sons William Betson, John Betson, and Chris (Rachel) Betson; grandchildren Ellie and James; sister-in-law Maryann Rigney-Johnston; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her brother James Johnston Jr.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Julia Coladonato, 95, of Quakertown, died Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at Independence Court in Quakertown. She was born in Quakertown on October 2, 1928 to the late Fedele and Rose (DeLuca) Coladonato. She was a Quakertown graduate of June 7, 1949. Julia excelled in sports and played hardball and softball. She was a member of St. Isidore's Roman Catholic Church.
Julia is survived by many nieces and nephews, as well as close family and friends. She is predeceased by her sister Jeanette Hoffman, sister Mary A. Orlic, and brothers Tony Leo, and Francis Coladonato.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
susan Marie dietteriCh, 53, of Pennsburg, PA, left us to join her dad in Heaven, on August 27, 2024. Susan was born March 24,1971, in Columbus, Ohio to Linda (Schluns) and Charles Dietterich. She attended Pleasant Valley High School and earned her BS in Accounting at Bloomsburg College, in Bloomsburg, PA. Susan continued her education at Penn State and graduated with high honors and her master's degree in business administration.
In her free time, Susan enjoyed spending time with her fur babies, Gabby and Allie, both shelties.
Susan was the eldest of 44+ grandchildren, and yes, she reminded us often, that she was the 1st, jokingly of course Susan is survived by her mother, Linda Dietterich, brother, Rick (Mona) Dietterich and three nephews Nick, Ian and Charlie. Proceeding her in death, her father, Charles. Dietterich and her grandparents.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
leon ezra ephross, 88, of Quakertown, PA, suddenly passed away on September 15, 2024.
Born in Lynn, MA, Leon was the son of the late Jacob and Gussie (Cohen) Ephross. The family moved to Kennebunk, ME, where Leon graduated from Kennebunk High School in 1954.
He greatly enjoyed doing puzzles and playing card games with family, friends, and neighbors, and traveling with his wife across the USA and abroad.
Leon will be dearly missed by his wife, Sally. Together they shared 41 loving years of marriage. In addition to his wife, Leon is survived by his children, son David Ephross, daughter Karen (Chris) Quinn; his stepchildren Dennis (Jean) Kressler, Cindy Brooks, Linda (Anthony) Ruggiero, and Woodrow “Jamie” Kressler; his sister Miriam Diane Edelstein; and many beloved grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews whom he adored. He was predeceased by his sister Lee Ephross.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Gladys Mae ewer, 96, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on September 15th, 2024, in her home. Born in Coopersburg, PA, Gladys was the daughter of late Truman Sharer and the late Mary (Mertl) Sharer. Gladys is predeceased by her husband, Theodore Ewer Jr., together they shared 58 loving years of marriage. Gladys worked at Tuttlemans, Imrod Royal, and AG Pants.
Gladys will be dearly missed by her children, Rodger (Janet) Ewer, Barbara Weierbach, and Crystal Rapp; her grandchildren, Lori, Michael, John, Miranda, Kyle, Samantha, and Robert; her siblings, Floyd, Larry, and Linda; her 19 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; and many other loving family and friends. In addition to her husband, Gladys is also predeceased by her son, Dennis Ewer; her grandson, Bradley Rapp; and her siblings, Dorothea, Truman, Margaret, and Kathryn.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
nanCy laura hilleGass, 85, of Quakertown, passed away on September 11, 2024.
She was born in Hellertown on June 1, 1939 to the late Joseph and Ada (Fluck) Karch.
Nancy was the loving wife of Norman Fred Hillegass for 65 years.
She graduated from Hellertown High School. Earlier in life she enjoyed watching NASCAR, and she always had a fondness for the Golden Girls. Nancy was an active gardener and loved taking care of
her flowers. She had an infectious laugh and a smile that would light up the room.
Nancy is survived by her husband Norman; daughter-in-law Michele Hillegass; grandchildren Jeremy (Sarah) Hillegass and Samantha (Zack) Deily; great grandchildren Kyle, Kylie, Kevin, Declan, and Wyatt; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; son Mark Hillegass; and siblings Dotsie, Jim, Charles, Dale, and Marion.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Catherine holzerMan, 86, of Sellersville, passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Bethlehem.
Born on September 17, 1938, in Sellersville, she was a daughter of the late Frederick and Leila (Rosenburger) Holzerman.
A graduate of Quakertown High School’s Class of 1955, Catherine entered the workforce, holding jobs with Crouthamel’s Potato Chip Factory, the Quakertown Silk Mill, retiring from Perkasie Plastics.
Outside of work, she found joy in bowling, playing the lottery, reading, and completing crossword puzzles. In her younger years, she enjoyed traveling with her sister.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by six brothers: John, William, Kenneth, James, Charles, and Robert Holzerman; and two sisters: Ruth Maher and Joanne Hunsicker.
Catherine will be lovingly remembered by her brother: Donald Holzerman; and several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, September 28, 2024, in Trinity Lutheran Church Cemetery, West Market and North 9th Streets, Perkasie.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
dianne horne, born on November 25, 1959, in Port Jervis, NY to John Mede and Mary Driscoll Mede, passed away on August 25, 2024, in Quakertown, PA.
A devoted wife to her husband Barry Horne, Dianne was a cherished mother to her daughters, Jamie McCloskey (Mark) and Marie Strecker, and her son, Christopher Horne. She also delighted in being a grandmother to Brandon Strecker and Jayden Strecker.
Dianne was known for her passion for gardening, decorating, and cooking for her family and friends, bringing joy and warmth to every gathering. A lover of music, she had a special fondness for Fleetwood Mac and Heart, often filling her home with their melodies. She was always dressed to impress, embodying the elegance of her favorite icon, Audrey Hepburn.
She is survived by her beloved sisters, Karen and Maureen, and her brothers, Johnny and Billy.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
louis C. MahlMan, 74, of Bethlehem and formerly of Philadelphia, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 12, 2024, surrounded by his family at St. Luke’s Hospice House.
Born on September 10, 1950, in Philadelphia, Lou was the son of the late Louis E. and Mary R. (Craig) Mahlman.
A proud graduate of St. John Neumann Catholic High School’s Class of 1968, Lou went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Pennsylvania.
Following his formal education, he served with the Philadelphia Police Department prior to being drafted into the U.S. Army. Upon receiving an Honorable Discharge and returning home, Lou began working for the Social Security Administration before moving to the United States Treasury.
After his government service, Lou enjoyed a long and meaningful career with the United Way, starting in Fundraising in Philadelphia, transitioning to the Lehigh Valley, and eventually serving as President of the United Way of Southeast Delaware County. He also dedicated 12 years as the Elected Controller for Lower Saucon Valley, where he played a key role in shaping financial policies.
While still living in Philadelphia, he ran for City Council and was an active member, and past president, of the Catholic Philopatrian Literary Institute.
Outside of work, he was an avid music lover, baker, history enthusiast— especially when sharing his father’s remarkable D-Day story, and forever fan of the Philadelphia Phillies and E-A-G-L-E-S. Above all, Lou cherished spending time with his family, always extending a warm welcome to anyone who joined their gatherings.
In addition to his parents, Lou is predeceased by his sister, Margaret “Margie” Mahlman, who passed away in 1987. Lou will be deeply missed by his wife of 49 years: Margaret Mary McFall, to whom he wed on September 23, 1975; four children: Shannon Mahlman (Deacon Michael Nungesser), Sheila Mahlman, Maureen Mahlman Fleming (Kevin), and Craig Mahlman (Valerie Shively); two brothers: Edward Mahlman (Moya Kinnealey) and Gerard Mahlman; nine grandchildren: Faith, Ben, Trinity, Haley, Jackson, Reagan, Kieran, Jameson, and Zoe; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews, and extended family and friends. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery, Yeadon.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
To share condolences with Louis’s family, visit www.crstrunk.com.
MiChael John MandiC, sr, 79, of Quakertown, passed away on Friday September 13, 2024, at St. Luke’s Hospice House. He was the husband of Mary Ann Mandic. Born March 6, 1945, he was the son of the late Nicholas and Helen Mandic. Michael was the 3rd oldest of 8 siblings. He is survived by children, Michael, Thomas, and Amber; grandchildren, Joshua, Felicia, and great grandchildren, Marley, Everett, and Delilah. He was a heavy equipment operator for 50 years with Jos. Ciccone and Sons. He will be remembered for his loyalty. He instilled good values in his children based upon his beliefs in the Bible. Memorial Service will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1000 Doylestown Pike, Quakertown, PA 18951 on October 26, 2024, at 2:00 pm. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Gerard M. "Gerry" MCGouGh, 69, of Sellersville passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on September 22, 2024. He was born in Norristown on December 28, 1954, to the late Francis and Inez (Rhodes) McGough. Gerry was the loving husband of Annette (Mielke) McGough for 48 years.
Gerry enjoyed hunting, going to auctions, gardening, and working on cars.
Gerry is survived by his wife Annette; children, Maria Carlson, Teresa (Tim)
~Obituaries~
McGough, Shawn (Joanne) McGough and Thomas (Heather) McGough; grandchildren Annalise & Lorelei Carlson and their father Joseph Carlson, Bryce & Lucas McGough, Hailey, Hunter, & Harper McGough, and Rowan & Aidan Gehman; siblings Barbara McElhaney, Francine Felton, and Henry McGough; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents; siblings Leo McGough, Inez Brown, and Frank McGough; grandson Babe McGough; and his longtime canine companion Molloy.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
lois Jane MolChan, 77, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on September 8th, 2024, in her Quakertown PA, home. Born in Wilkes Barre, PA, Lois was the daughter of the late Albert Molchan and the late Rita (Chapin) Molchan.
Lois graduated from Frankford High School in Philadelphia, PA, in 1965. Words do little justice to encompass Lois’s loving, creative, and artistic spirit. Her passion for life focused on family, friends, strangers in the supermarket, telling jokes, art and photography. She could easily turn this detail into a beautiful piece of artwork. She always had a special place in her heart for her furry grandchildren and all animals in general.
Lois will be dearly missed by her children, Sherry Beth (Leslie) Glenn and Denise Marie (John) Saugling; her grandchildren, Delaney Saugling, Reland Saugling, Logan Saugling, Holly Saugling, Cleo and her siblings.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Martha “Marty” elizaBeth Mullarkey, 85, of Quakertown, PA, passed away peacefully on September 1st, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Ashland, PA, Marty was the daughter of the late Peter Bendinsky and the late Elizabeth (Fedorisko) Bendinsky. Marty is predeceased by her husband, Robert, together they shared 53 loving years of marriage.
Marty attended Nether-Providence High School and graduated in 1957. In her free time, Marty enjoyed gardening, painting, and playing cards and board games with friends. She was an active member at St. Isidore’s Parish.
Marty will be dearly missed by her children, Michael Mullarkey (Dawn), Tracy DeBrigida (Michael), Jennifer Bamberger (Todd), and Joseph Mullarkey (Tracy); her grandchildren, Dante, Alyssa, Morgan, Tyler, Ryan, Lexi, Shae, Colin, Kevin and Nolan; her siblings, Edward Bendinsky (Carolyn), Donald Bendinsky (Charla), and Joann Rudisill (Charlie); along with other extended family members and friends.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
John Jaret Murray, age 55, of Aldan, Pennsylvania, passed away on August 21, 2024 at 2:48PM at St. Luke's Hospice Home in Bethlehem, PA.
Born at Tri County Hospital, 190 W. Sproul Road, Springfield, PA 19064, he was the only son of John Jarvis Murray and Ava Lou Patterson (nee Shandrew) (Murray).
John's hobbies included a computer expertise, music blasting, playing guitar and keyboard, nice muscle cars, and Texas Hold 'Em.
He is survived by his sons, Erik Ryan Murray and Zachary John Murray; and their mother, Jennifer Larch (nee Lockhart)
In addition to his sons, John is survived by Aunts, Carol Deighan (nee Shandrew)(Litten) and Darla DiRusso (nee Shandrew), Uncle Jesse Shandrew, and cousins, Mike Litten and Scott Litten, Erik Deighan, Heather Lauffer (nee Shandrew), Rebecca Glinsman (nee DiRusso), Meredith Bear (nee DiRusso) , Douglas DiRusso and Joanne DiRusso. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
theresa Marie napier (terry), 80, of Perkasie, PA, passed away peacefully at her home in Bear, DE on September 5th, 2024, surrounded by her loving family, closest friend (Donna) and devoted care taker (Keisha).
Terry was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. She graduated William Tenant High School in 1962.
Terry is predeceased by her husband Thomas A Napier, Jr, both of their parents, brothers in law George Andelfinger and Ned Timothy Napier. She will be dearly missed by her children, Melissa Napier Salamon (Mark), Thomas Napier III and Amanda Napier; her grandchildren, Brooke, Katie, Hannah and Keira; her siblings, Helen Wicks (Matt), Bernadette Andelfinger (George), and Rita; her cousin Queeny (Marilyn) and many nieces and nephews.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Guy w. neuBert, 59, of Quakertown, passed away on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at St. Luke’s Hospital—Upper Bucks Campus, following a brief battle with cancer.
Born on October 29, 1964, in Quakertown, he was the son of Lois (Bleam) and the late Charles E. Neubert.
Following his formal education, he entered the workforce, spending his career in construction as a welder.
Outside of work, he found joy in cars, traveling (he loved Tennessee), history,music and fishing.
He was a previous member of the West End Fire Company, Quakertown.
In addition to his father, he is preceded in death by one sister: Patti Neubert.
Guy will be lovingly remembered by his girlfriend of eleven years: Louise Clymer; son: Christopher Neubert; mother: Lois Neubert; and two sisters: Amy Neubert and Penny Crauch.
Services will be private.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
linda louise popowitz, 76, of Richlandtown, passed away on September 19, 2024. She was born in Quakertown on April 2, 1948 to the late Harold and Elsie (Fluck) Slifer. Linda was the loving wife of Ronald Lee Popowitz for 58 years. She worked at Porter Instrument for over 30 years. Linda loved going to the shore every year with her family. She loved playing Bingo whenever she could. Linda had a way of always making everyone around her laugh and smile with her positive attitude.
Linda is survived by her husband Ronald; children Gary (Nga) Popowitz and Buffy Guenst; grandchildren Jessika, Ashley, Jarrett, and Gary Jr.; great grandchildren Abigail, Jace, and Elliott; siblings Barbara Slifer and Scott (Lori) Slifer; nieces Alexis and Gabriella; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents and brother Barry.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
e. williaM “Bill” reiss, 86, of Zieglerville, passed away on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at Pennsburg Manor. Born on September 2, 1938, in Philadelphia, he was a son of the late William J. and Ruth E. (Adams) Reiss.
A graduate of Lower Moreland High School’s Class of 1957, Bill went on to teach the accordion and work as a set-up man and mentor in spring manufacturing. Outside of work, he found great joy in freshwater fishing on his boat, small game hunting, playing his accordion in and outside of a band, singing in the Still Small Voice choir, tending to his vegetable garden, cutting firewood, bowling, and spending time with his beloved dogs.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a granddaughter: Melanie Reiss.
Bill will be lovingly remembered by his wife: Edna (Helm) Reiss, with whom he would’ve celebrated their sixty-fourth wedding anniversary in October; son: Thomas W. Reiss and his wife, Debra; daughter: Robin L. Haug; four grandchildren: Andrew Reiss (Trish), Daniel Reiss, Amanda Haug, and Jennifer Haug; three brothers: Richard Reiss (Diane), Michael Reiss (Becky), and David Reiss (Toni); one sister: Jeanette Beck; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 6, 2024, from 1:00pm—until the time of the memorial service at 2:00pm— at the First United Church of Christ, 151 South 4th Street, Quakertown, PA 18951.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Bill’s name, to the Frederick Living Benevolent Fund, 2849 Big Rd, Zieglerville, PA 19492; or First United Church of Christ at the address above.
kenneth p sCheetz, 81, of Quakertown, passed away on Friday, August 30, 2024, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Bethlehem.
Born on June 11, 1943, in Quakertown, he was the son of Pauline (Moyer) and the late Joseph Scheetz.
In addition to his father, he is preceded in death by his wife: Mary Jane (Long) Scheetz, who passed away in 2005. Kenneth will be lovingly remembered by his mother: Pauline (Moyer) Scheetz; and sister: JoAnn Nix and her husband Doug.
Services will be private.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
linda Jane treffinGer (nee mease), 77, of Quakertown, passed away surrounded by her loving family on September 18, 2024 at her home.
Born in Chestnut Hill, PA, Lyn was the daughter of the late Leroy Mease and Grace (Kerper) Mease. Linda attended Quakertown High School and was from the class of 1965.
After high school, Linda embarked on a life that had her living abroad, in Hong Kong. Throughout her life she traveled the globe from Atlanta, California, New Orleans and Hawaii to France, Austria and London.
Lyn was an accomplished artist who worked in pen & ink and oils. At the time of her passing, she had been active at the “Main Street Gallery” with her good friend and artist/owner Jim Lukens. Lyn loved her Saturdays at “The Main Street Gallery” painting, meeting customers, friends and other artists.
Lyn worked for many years at Goshow's Jewelry Store in Quakertown
and Souderton. She also worked at Hess'/ Bon-Ton department store in Quakertown where she made many lifetime great friends who will all miss her terribly.
Lyn was preceded in death by her sister Ethel Reichenbach and brother Leroy (Lee) Mease Jr.
She is survived by her current husband Arthur Treffinger, siblings George Mease and Diane Turner; Daughter Krista (Sean) Rumbaugh, son Matthew (Melissa) Bishop and two step children; Thomas Treffinger & Tammy Kratz.
Grandchildren Jaclyn Rumbaugh, Sydney and Mason Bishop; and a close extensive family of cousins, nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.
Lyn was a stalwart family force in keeping the “Kerper Family Reunion” a long running tradition and very often hosted the annual Summer get together at her home. She enjoyed local travels to Cape May, wintering with her sister, Diane, in Bonita Springs, Florida, attending concerts and, of course, “Girls Weekends” with her daughter Krista and friends down to the shore.
Lyn's home was always open for entertaining her family and friends. She enjoyed a good wine and loved cooking. She kept her home decorated for every season, occasion or holiday. Summers were spent poolside in the back yard. Lyn was an avid Elvis and Beatles fan. Every Sunday morning you would find her listening to Rockin' Ron’s Elvis & Friends radio show. Yep-Yep-Yep!!!
She will be dearly missed by any and all who knew her.
"I am a part of all that I have met."
~ alfReD, loRD tennySon
A celebration of Lyn’s life will be hosted by her family at McCoole’s Event Center 10 S. Main St. Quakertown, PA 18951 on October 13th starting at 1:00 PM. All who loved Lyn are invited!
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Lyn’s memory, online to memphismemoriesproductions.com/ donate.html or by mail: P.O. Box 1554, Levittown, PA 19058.
dale susan tulio, 78, of Harrisonburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at Sunnyside Retirement Community. Born September 28, 1945, in Brooklyn, New York, she was the daughter of the late George and Jean (Smith) Weise. Dale was raised in Hempstead, Long Island, New York with her two sisters, Donna and Carol. Dale was recognized as the top female athlete at Uniondale High School, Class of 1963 in Basketball, Field Hockey, Softball and Volleyball. She moved to Pennsylvania after high school to attend East Stroudsburg University where she studied to become a teacher. She touched and impacted the lives of so many young children through her 25+ years as a teacher at St. Isidore’s Catholic School, Upper Perkiomen High School, and North Penn Junior High School, where she met her husband, as well as running the Little Caboose Day Care Center for many years. More than that, she was the best mom someone could ever have and opened her house to exchange students and friends of all her children.
After retiring from teaching, she moved to Carolina Trace in Sanford, North Carolina and enjoyed boating on the lake, golfing, and wine time with friends.
Married June 6, 1972, she shared 50 beautiful years with her loving, stalwart husband, Leonard Anthony Tulio, who survives her in death. She is also survived by her three daughters, Maria Tulio, Christina Tiley and husband, Roy, and Melissa Atwood and husband, Terrence; her son, Mark Tulio and wife, Melanie; step-son, David Williams and wife, Karen; her two sisters, Donna Fancher and Carol Weise; 17 grandchildren and many extended family members/nieces/ nephews.
The family will have a celebration of life at Sunnyside Retirement Community, where Dale had resided for the past eight years, Saturday, October 12, 2024, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the 1912 Bistro, casual attire suggested.
Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinsons Research, https://give.michaeljfox.org/donate, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org, in her honor.
Condolences may be shared at kygers.com.
rayMond J. VarGo, 78, of Quakertown, passed away on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at St. Luke’s Hospital—Upper Bucks Campus.
Born on May 24, 1946, in Quakertown, he was a son of the late Edward and Ruth (Clymer) Vargo.
Following his formal education, Raymond entered the workforce. He spent many years as a self-employed carpenter. Outside of work, he found joy in anything car related: antique cars, NASCAR, as well as building models. He also enjoyed woodworking and camping.
He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Richlandtown.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by sons: Raymond, Jr. and Todd Vargo; daughter: Kimberly Vargo; brothers: Donald and David Vargo; and his sister: Marlene Vargo.
Raymond will be lovingly remembered by his wife of forty-seven years: Marie (Bossert) Vargo; daughters: Susan Cramp (Thomas), Marie Hillegass (Drew), and Deborah Shearer (Chris Miller); grandchildren: Michael (Kimberly), Rebecca (Christopher), Jeffrey (Jacklyn), Janna, Justin, Jessica (Richard), Allyse (Scott), and Jarod. He is also survived by fourteen great-grandchildren; brother: Ralph Vargo (Rose); and nieces and nephews.
Interment is at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church Cemetery, Perkasie.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made, in Raymond’s name, to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
To share condolences with Raymond’s family, visit www.crstrunk.com.
thora Cynthia zapp, 99, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, passed away on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at Pennsburg Manor. A much-loved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend completed her life peacefully. Cynthia was born in East Orange, New Jersey, to the late Agvald I. Swensen and Thora M. Aamodt Swensen. She was the loving wife of Edmund L. Zapp, Jr., for 60 years.
Cynthia's family will deeply miss her tenaciously positive attitude and encouragement. She was preceded in death by her siblings Ellen, Gordon, Mildred, Thelma, Irene, and Norman, as well as her daughter Sally and her ever-loving husband Ed, Jr. She is survived by her children Edmund III, David (Jane), Fred (Amy), and Cindy (Andrew); her grandchildren Matthew (Erin), Christopher (Zinta), Emily, Katlyn (CJ), Haley, James, Erica (Will), and Leah (Joshua); and her great-grandchildren Zigmund, Liga, Madelyn, and Thora. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
“Nostalgia - that's the Autumn, Dreaming through September, Just a million lovely things, I always will remember.”
- Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
Ponderings by Palma
BY PALMA MOYER, RN
How does rejection make you feel? It can send some into depression others into feelings of anger and frustration.
It is something we can't control, which further adds to our feelings of inadequacy and in some cases revenge. What we do with these feelings is up to us. Some punch walls, some cry for long periods of time, some feel less of a person and withdraw from their usual activities. Do any of these help build up the self-esteem? I think not. A good way to overcome rejection
is to reach out to someone in need and know that you can make a difference in someone’s life by being a friend, someone who may just need someone to listen to them, hang out with positive people, see your self-worth and know that we are all loved by God. If you want to soar like an Eagle don't run with the turkeys. If you are rejected go to where you are accepted for yourself and be happy. The best secret for revenge is to be happy and shine. palMa iS a 1957 gRaDuate of teMple univeRSity hoSpital School of nuRSing. She ShaReS heR expeRienceS anD peRSpectiveS on nuRSing anD on life. She enjoyS heaRing fRoM you at DonthelpMeMoyeR@aol coM
Remembering Perkasie's Joe Ferry
Joseph P. “Joe” Ferry, Jr., of Perkasie, PA, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at his home. He was 69. He was the loving husband of Nancy I. (Perkosky) Ferry. The couple had celebrated their 46th Wedding Anniversary on
Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Joseph P. Sr. and Mary (Fitzgerald) Ferry. A 1972 graduate of West Catholic High School, Philadelphia, PA, he earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications from Eastern University (formerly Eastern Baptist College), Radnor, PA in 1977.
Joe began his writing and public relations career with the Quakertown Free Press, Quakertown, PA, where he worked for ten years. For the next 15 years, he was employed by the Allentown Morning Call at its Quakertown office as a reporter until being promoted to Editor, covering news in the Bucks and Montgomery County areas. During the early 2000’s he worked in public relations for the Environmental Protection Agency, before working in the same capacity for over ten years for the Pennridge School District, Perkasie.
Then, Joe became self-employed operating Shadywood Communications for 15 years. He, along with his son Michael, also owned and operated Chroma Creative Group specializing in web development for several years.
Joe was a member of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Hilltown, PA. He was proud to have founded the Pennridge Education Foundation which provided scholarships and supported children’s needs, and he tirelessly volunteered with the Perkasie Olde Towne organization for many years.
A sports enthusiast, Joe played baseball from his “Little League” days through his college years. Having played in the “Perky League”, he was invited to a tryout with the Pittsburgh Pirates though it was not to be. His passion for baseball extended to years volunteering as a baseball coach for the Pennridge Little League, Perkasie, for which he was instrumental in creating the “Pennridge Big League”. A dedicated Philadelphia Phillies fan, he was particularly fond of his dog, Moose.
Joe loved music, often listening to his favorite bands: Pink Floyd, the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Band, the Eagles and Bruce Springsteen. Most, of all, Joe will be remembered for his caring and generous spirit and for his love for his family especially his grandchildren.
Surviving with his wife are three children, Christopher P. Ferry and his wife Jenny L., of Perkasie, Michael J. Ferry, of Warrington, PA, and Noel A. Penn and her husband William K. II, of Perkasie; four grandchildren, LCpl David J. Ferry, USMC, Sarah L. Ferry, and Anna R. and William K. Penn, III; and a sister, Mary Anne Feiglstock and her husband Gary, of West Chester, PA.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pennridge Little League, 200 W. Walnut Street, Perkasie, PA 18944, OR to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Foundation, P. O. Box 781351, Philadelphia, PA 19178-1351 or https://give2.chop.edu
23rd Annual Perkasie Fall Festival Slated for October 6
Perkasie’s annual Fall Festival will take place from 12 pm to 4 pm on Sunday October 6 in the town center and Menlo Park. The event sites are linked by free bus rides, or visitors can enjoy the short walk between the two locations.
The theme of this year’s event is “Down on the Farm”. Visitors are invited to enjoy their favorite fall flavors from local growers, bakers and food producers, many of them familiar faces at Perkasie’s award-winning Farmers Market. A huge inflatable farm maze and tractor rides around the town center add to the farm fun. New this year, the AHA SensoryFriendly Area in the town center offers a quiet refuge for kids. Live music, performances by Pennridge Rams Cheer teams, a fire truck, petting zoo, outdoor games, a huge raffle, pumpkin decorating, entertainers and a massive vendor fair and food court round out Perkasie’s downtown fun.
Families will also find lots of free fun at Menlo Park, including a petting zoo, balloon twisting, face painting, and pony rides (small fee). Free fall-themed crafts are under one park pavilion, and scarecrow decorating is under the other. Build and enter a scarecrow in this popular contest (one per family please, while supplies last, or bring your own). Judging is at 3:30pm with prizes announced just before 4:00pm. Perkasie’s historic Carousel is open until 5pm. Food options at Menlo Park this year include ice cream, grilled cheese, hotdogs at the Carousel and Rita’s Water Ice snack stand offerings.
Perkasie Borough would like to acknowledge the following Premium Sponsors for their continuing support of the Fall Festival: A&T Chevrolet-Subaru, American Heritage Federal Credit Union, First Student, Gilmore & Associates and Penn Community Bank.
A full schedule, a list of road closures, parking restrictions are available at perkasieborough.org/our-events.
ADA parking is available at the Menlo Aquatics Center parking lot and in the Borough Hall parking lot in the town center (access from 7th St). Additional event parking is available at a number of business lots in and around the town center, and at the Pennridge South Middle School, 610 S. 5th St.
“There are three things that I’ve learned never to discuss with people: religion, politics and the Great Pumpkin.” - Linus Van Pelt
Perkasie Borough
Moves Forward
to Restore Historic Covered Bridge
Perkasie Borough has selected an engineering firm to oversee the return of its historic 1832 covered bridge to public service in Lenape Park.
On Sept. 3, 2024, Perkasie Borough Council awarded a contract to Wood Research and Development LLC, of Jefferson, Oregon and Jacksonville, Florida, for engineering and design consultation services for the rehabilitation of the South Perkasie Borough Covered Timber Bridge.
The remnants of Hurricane Ida in September 2021 swept the covered bridge off its abutments during historic flooding in Lenape Park. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) along with the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) awarded grant funds in June 2023 for repairs to damage caused by the flooding. Prior to Hurricane Ida, the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission and the Perkasie Historical Society contributed funds to a project to rehabilitate the bridge.
Seven engineering companies made qualified proposals for the task of restoring Bucks County’s oldest covered bridge, during a two-month proposal process. The other companies were from Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Virginia.
Perkasie Borough Council’s Historical Committee, with input from Borough management, selected Wood Research and Development using judging criteria required by FEMA. Borough Council unanimously approved the selection.
“We were fortunate to have some of the best firms in the country interested in the project, because of the South Perkasie Covered Bridge’s unique status,” said Scott Bomboy, chair of the Council’s Historical Committee. “It is the third-oldest Town Lattice style covered bridge in the United States and a special example of an original covered bridge. We intend to keep as much of the bridge intact as possible, including all the ‘carvings’ inside the bridge.”
The contract award to Wood Research and Development was for $195,030, and it is fully funded by FEMA and other grants. The firm will oversee the design and repair plan for the timber bridge and its abutments, then will work with construction crews. The covered bridge will remain in its current location, and it will be elevated above the 100year flood plain. The covered bridge also will have other enhancements to mitigate future flood damage.
The design and engineering project is expected to start in early October 2024 and conclude in January 2025. Separate construction contacts for the timber bridge and abutments will be let in Spring 2025, and the covered bridge is expected to return to public service by late August 2025.
The South Perkasie Covered Bridge was saved from demolition in 1958 by its residents and relocated to Lenape Park. The bridge was placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the National Park Service in 1980.
Happy Birthday to Me
I have another birthday coming up in a few days.
Some people have trouble with turning 30, 40, 50, or 60, anything with a zero. I never did. Oddly, it really bothered me on the fives, so when I hit 35 and 45, it freaked me out. I never heard of any anyone else that got upset except on the big zero birthdays.
These days, as I get older, with less time remaining here on our rapidly warming planet earth, I would prefer not to celebrate birthdays. There’s nothing I need, really nothing special that I want, other than for people to be healthy, happy, and not spending money on me.
Go treat yourself to an expensive drink at Starbucks instead. Or, if you find that you somehow ended up in the Philly area, go get a nice Delassandro cheesesteak! Wit.
A lot of people my age seem to suggest specific charitable donations in lieu of birthday gifts, but that too, is pressure on someone to give money that perhaps they really can’t spare. Besides, do you really want to spy on people to see if they donated to your cause or not? Let’s leave that to the government.
A friend of mine has an impressive and unique way of celebrating his birthdays. A month or two before the big day, he asks his friends to send him the names of a deserving charity that helps feed the hungry. He prefers local organizations, and after reviewing, sends donations to those he selects.
So, nobody is buying him gifts he doesn’t need, but rather, in honor of his birthday, he is donating his own money to worthwhile charities. I love this idea. For some people this would be doable, and many certainly don’t need more stuff.
For me, fall 2024 brings a big birthday that does not end with a zero, but with the number that has a carnal connotation which of course, we laughed at as teenagers. Actually, I still do.
If you happen to be one of my friends or relatives, although Shelli insists on buying me gifts, baking me a cake, cooking a favorite dinner, and making it a special day, there’s no need to acknowledge it.
Unless of course, you want to take me down to Philly for a cheesesteak. john
Meadow Glen in Richlandtown has apartments immediately available for both Personal Care and Secure Memory Support.
• Companion, studio, and 1-bedroom apartments
• Rates starting at $5,670 per month
• Nursing staff available 24 hours
• Amenities such as a chapel, meditation garden, café, library, and salon
• Activities and trips for residents to enjoy
• All utilities, housekeeping, maintenance, cable TV, and phone included
• Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
“On Halloween, the parents sent their kids out looking like me.” - Rodney Dangerfield
The answers to the puzzles on this page are found elsewhere in this issue. Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.
Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.
The Basics of Challenging a Will in Pennsylvania
BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ.
One of the more common estate litigation matter is the act of challenging the validity of a Will. This typically happens when someone feels that the Will in question doesn’t adequately reflect the wishes of the person who signed it (the testator), someone is set to inherit “more than they deserve”, or there are some suspicious circumstances behind the document alleging to be the testator’s last wishes.
In order to challenge the validity of a Will, the person seeking to have the document set aside must file a caveat with the Register of Wills. A caveat is a notice sent to the Register of Wills asking him/her not to accept a Will. This can be done even before the Will is presented to the Register for probate by submitting what is known as an informal caveat and paying the appropriate filing fee – but this is only a temporary pause. Once the informal caveat has been filed or the Will has been presented to the Register for probate, you then have 10 days to file the formal caveat.
After the caveat has been filed and a Will presented for probate to the Register, the Register will hold a hearing to determine if the Will as presented, should be admitted to probate. If a party does not agree with the ruling of the Register, the decision of the Register can be appealed to the Orphans’ Court division of the Court of Common Pleas.
Some of the common grounds for filing a caveat and challenging the validity of a Will are: lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, fraud, forgery or mistake. If you believe that a Will is suspect and should not be accepted by the Register of Wills, contact an attorney who is experienced in this area of law.
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
Advocates for the Homeless Seeks Volunteers for Winter Season
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 32 degrees or below.
from November 15, 2024 to April 15, 2025. Please consider volunteering with AHUB. Contact ahubpa@gmail.com to learn about opportunities.
This homeless shelter is located at the Masonic Lodge in downtown Quakertown, PA. After a very successful eleven 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
Code Blue Sheltering Ministry, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, officially opened in Quakertown on December 1, 2013 after three years of development and provides warm shelter, food, and respectful overnight care for homeless people in Upper Bucks County during times of life-threatening cold weather. We partner with churches, volunteer agencies and individuals in the Quakertown, Pennridge, and Palisades school districts to provide this ministry. AHUB’s mailing address is P.O. Box 232, Quakertown, PA 18951. Their email is upperbuckscodeblue@ gmail.com. The Code Blue hotline is 267450-5191. Like Upper Bucks Code Blue on Facebook!
Why Regular Rebalancing Makes Sense
Everyone loves a winner. If an investment is successful, most people naturally want to stick with it. But is that the best approach?
It may sound counterintuitive, but it may be possible to have too much of a good thing. Over time, the performance of different investments can shift a portfolio’s intent – and its risk profile. It’s a phenomenon sometimes referred to as “risk creep,” and it happens when a portfolio has its risk profile shift over time.
When deciding how to allocate investments, many start by taking into account their time horizon, risk tolerance, and specific goals. Next, individual investments are selected that pursue the overall objective. If all the investments selected had the same return, that balance – that allocation – would remain steady for a period of time. But if the investments have varying returns, over time, the portfolio may bear little resemblance to its original allocation.
Rebalancing is the process of restoring a portfolio to its original risk profile. But remember, asset allocation is an approach to help manage investment risk. Asset allocation does not guarantee against investment loss.
There are two ways to rebalance a portfolio.
The first is to use new money. When adding money to a portfolio, allocate these
new funds to those assets or asset classes that have underperformed.
For example, if one investment fell from 40% of a portfolio to 30%, consider purchasing more of that investment to return the portfolio to its original 40% allocation. Diversification is an investment principle designed to manage risk. However, diversification does not guarantee against a loss.
The second way of rebalancing is to sell enough of the “winners” to buy more underperforming assets. Ironically, this type of rebalancing actually forces you to buy low and sell high.
Keep in mind, however, that the information in this material is not intended as tax advice, and may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult your tax professional before rebalancing. Rebalancing by selling “winners” may result in a taxable event.
Periodically rebalancing your portfolio to match your desired risk tolerance is a sound practice regardless of the market conditions. One approach is to set a specific time each year to schedule an appointment to review your portfolio and determine if adjustments are appropriate.. 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
Employment Opportunities
Krause Home and Lawn CareSeeking 2 or 3 individuals to expand business. Construction experience is helpful. Wage will be based on experience. References requested. Clean driving record and driver’s license required. 267-261-7671
Spors General Store - Hiring Full & Part Time. Competitive Pay, Health Insurance, 401K, Family Contact Becky at bspor@sporsgeneralstore. com or 215-536-6754
Jackson Hewitt Tax ServicesQuakertown Office. Flexible schedule, hourly pay and bonuses, tax
preparation training, continuing education, Friends & Family discounts. Visit quakertown.net/jh
Pool Pro - Hiring various positions in store and office, pool technicians and cleaners. Apply in person or send resume for interview. 201 S. Third Street, Coopersburg. Email: poolpropa@verizon.net
The Proper Brewing CompanyHiring Bartender, Dishwasher, Host, Cooks, Bartender Contact: kris@theproperbrewing.com or stop in at 117 W. Broad Street,Quakertown
Fall is for Planting!
October is prime time to plant garlic, but mid-September to early November (before hard frost) is also possible. Garlic (Allium sativum) is easy to grow if you follow some simple rules. There are two types of garlic. Hardneck has a “pseudo”
stem while softneck has no stem-like structure and is the type used for braiding. Hardneck is more winter hardy but both can be grown in our zone. Always purchase garlic bulbs from a Farmer’s Market, Nursery Center or Home Garden Center. Bulbs purchased from the grocery store are not a good choice. Incorporate some quality organic matter into the soil bed. Break the bulbs into cloves. Use the largest, healthiest cloves for planting. Use the rest for cooking. Garlic requires between 50-70 square inches per clove for maximum growth. Plant cloves 1-2” deep, pointed side up. Cover with straw, mulch or shredded leaves several inches deep. That’s it! Refer to the following Penn State Publication for fertilization, harvesting and storage information. extension.psu.edu/ growing-garlic-fall-planting
Many Garden Centers have sales on Perennials, Shrubs and Trees now so they don’t have to winter them over. Take advantage of these sales to add some beauty to your garden. Choose healthy plants and choose “the right plant for the right place”. Keep any new plants watered deeply to help them acclimate to their new environment. Any new plant, especially trees, should be hydrated for at least the first two years. Mulching will help keep moisture in the soil. If you want to know whether you have “the right plant at the right place” do a soil test. This will help you make the right choice at the garden center. Soil tests can be purchased at the Bucks County Extension Office for $10.00 or you can download the Application Form. Soil Testing (psu.edu)
It’s time to put your garden to bed Don’t be too hasty to cut everything back. Remove any waning annuals, but
late blooming annuals such as Zinnias, Sunflowers and Marigolds feed Finches and Sparrows. Perennials with seed heads can feed wildlife throughout the winter. Plants such as Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia) feed Goldfinches, Cardinals, Sparrows and Nuthatches. Finches also love Coneflower (Echinacea). Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium maculatum) provides seeds and fluffy nesting material for Chickadees, Wrens, Titmice and Juncos. Salvia, Coreopsis, Sunflowers and most daisy-like flowers are some of their favorites. Also, Asters, Ironweed, Goldenrod, Mountain Mint and many native grasses provide needed food and hiding places for the birds and other wildlife.
Saving Seeds can be a fun activity to do, especially with kids. Follow these basic rules for success.
• Choose seeds from healthy plants and only those that are Open-Pollinated, not hybrids.
• Allow the seeds to dry on a paper towel.
• Place the seeds in a Ziploc bag and label with date harvested and name of the plant.
• Place the bag in a plastic or glass container with tight-fitting lid.
• Store in a cool dark place. The refrigerator is a good choice.
• For beginners, choose Zinnias, Cosmos or Marigolds. They are easy to harvest and to plant the next year after the danger of frost in Mid-late May.
Our Home Gardening/Watershed hotline is active until the end of the season on October 31.
Emails will still be answered by our trained Master Gardeners and Master Watershed Stewards remotely, but wait times may be a bit longer.
You can call or email. Weekend emails or calls after hours will be answered on our next available day.
267-483-2020 ~ BucksMG@psu.edu Ask a Master Gardener/Watershed Steward Penn State Extension Bucks County 576 Penns Park Road • Newtown 18940
Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!
"Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them." - Romans 12:9-14, nRsv
The world of the New Testament in the first century was full of division. There was a widening gap between the rich and the poor, there was increasing tension between those in Judea and the Romans who ruled over them, religious life had begun to reflect that tension, and now the early followers of Jesus had to figure out how to function as the church that was comprised of those who were rich, poor, Jewish, Roman, and Greek.
The early Christian leaders did not allow for churches to be segregated based on any of their differences; on the contrary, they were called to be together, to live together, and to provide for one another. And further than that, they were called to share the unifying message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ through welcoming the strangers, and through blessing those who persecuted them.
Despite how divided the land in which they found themselves had become, the good news was that Jesus Christ came into the world to show them a better way of life, to lead them to the will of God, to die on the cross for the sins that plagued and divided them, and to rise again as a promise of the eternal life and resurrection to come for all people who believe in Him, and follow His teaching.
My brothers and sisters in Christ, we continue to live in a land that is divided. Within our small community of Quakertown and the surrounding area, are the rich, the poor, the Catholics, the Protestants, the Democrats, the Republicans, the Eagles fans, the steelers fans, those who are well-known, and those who we are called to know. The call to us is the same as it was to the early church: Be a resource toward one another, keep proclaiming the way and Gospel of Jesus with zeal, and deny taking part in the temptation to only show hospitality to those that are like you, and deny the temptation to curse those on the other side from where you are.
Because imagine what the world would be like if all Christians sought to heed this advice?
jon bauMan iS the SenioR paStoR at fiRSt uniteD chuRch of chRiSt in QuakeRtown he can be ReacheD at jbauMan@fiRStucc net
Trinity Lutheran Church Welcomes Reverend
Rachel Scheible
Trinity Lutheran Church is thrilled to announce the appointment of Reverend Rachel Scheible as its new Pastor effective July 2024. With a deep commitment to faith, community, and youth, Pastor Rachel brings a wealth of experience and a vibrant vision leading Trinity’s congregation into a new chapter of spiritual growth and worship energy.
Pastor Rachel comes to Trinity with a background in music education, youth ministry and pastoral care. A graduate of The Lutheran Theological Seminary of Philadelphia, Pastor Rachel most recently served Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Secane, PA, where she integrated multigenerational faith opportunities to the congregation and grew the nursery school ministry.
Pastor Rachel is excited about Trinity’s social service activities and its support offered to various local agencies. This past August Trinity’s annual Peach Festival raised over $5000 to be shared to the Scouts, Quakertown Code Blue and Quakertown Community Outreach. Pastor Rachel’s immediate focus will be senior and youth ministry.
“I am honored and feel blessed to be part of Trinity’s community. They have a generous, loving and servantfull spirit. They strive to be a visible presence in Quakertown through
active encouragement and Christian engagement. Come visit Trinity in
A special welcome event for Pastor Rachel will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church 102 N. Hellertown Avenue on Sunday, October 13th at 3:00pm. Light refreshments will be served following the service. Members of the community are invited to attend and meet Pastor Rachel.
For more information about Trinity Lutheran Church please visit trinityquakertown.org or call (215) 536-4345.
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
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
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 www.firstUCC.net
Senior Pastor: Rev. Jon C. Bauman
Pastor of Visitation: Rev. Elaine Ely
Sunday worship 9:15 am. Sunday School
Classes for all ages at 10:30 am. 2nd Saturday Free Community Lunch Pickup 9:00 am. 3rd Thursday Free Community Supper 5:30 pm (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
Worship Sunday 10 am; also live on Facebook and Youtube. Bible study Tuesday 7 pm. We pray you will join us in worship and study. Morning Star Fellowship 429 S. 9th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-529-6422
Pastors: John & Theresa Decker www.mstarqtown.org
Sunday Services at 9 am and 11 am. Our cafe is open with free coffee. Children’s Ministries provided. Celebrate Recovery on Tuesdays at 7 pm. Student Ministries on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. Weekly Connections. For updates and schedule changes, check our website. Pennridge Christian Fellowship 720 Blooming Glen Rd, Blooming Glen 18911 215-257-7309 pastor@pennridgecf.org www.pennridgecf.org
Pastor: Thomas Vargis
Multicultural Charismatic church worshipping God in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Our service consists of song service, testimonies, and teaching of the word. Live Spanish translation & children’s service at 10:30 Sunday worship. Livestream: fb.com/pennridgechristianfellowship
Quakertown United Methodist Church 1875 Freier Road Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4992
barb@qumc.com www.qumc.com
Pastor: Rev. Graham Truscott
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) Mailing:PO Box 120, Spinnerstown, PA 18968 215-536-0734 stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org
Interim Pastor: The Rev. Susan Lang 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
Sunday Worship 10:15 in Sanctuary Springfield Mennonite Church 1905 Pleasant View Road
Coopersburg PA 18036
267-999-1404
Pastor: Robert W. Gerhart
www.springfieldmennonite.org
Join us at 10:15 am Sunday Mornings for a Blended Worship Service, Multigenerational, loving congregation. Biblically and Doctrinally Sound.
Trinity Lutheran Church 102 N. Hellertown Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536.4345 www.trinityquakertown.org
Pastor: Rev. Rachel Scheible
9 am Traditional service, Handicap accessible, Family Friendly, Dynamic Music Ministry, Living God’s Love for All
QCHS Alumni Spotlight: Ann Foulke Hellmann '66
BY RAY FOX '66
This article is written about a classmate of mine, Ann Foulke Hellmann. I must admit that I have made it a commitment to write about QCHS graduates from a variety of decades. Over the last two years I have been able to do that most of the time, but have found it necessary to go back to the 1960’s for this Spotlight article. For the readers of this column, I want to encourage you to send names and ideas to me for future spotlights by getting in touch with me at rdefox@msn.com.
Ann is another prime example of a QCHS graduate who has given so much back to her community in a variety of ways. She served with several community organizations including: The Quakertown Borough Planning Commission, as an Assistant Leader, along with Barbara Emery, with the Girls Scouts, her 300 Year Foulke Family reunion committee, Editor of the Company Newsletter for Crystal Brands (formerly known as Eagle Shirt Shirtmakers), Director of the original Quakertown Historical Society, and Director and Chairperson of the Richland Library Company. She is currently serving as treasurer of the Richland Library Company, treasurer of the Foulke Family Association, Committee Chair of the Upper Bucks Grant Committee, Board Member and Vice President of the Woman’s Club of Quakertown, singing as second alto in the Cor Cymry Gogledd (North American Welsh Choir), as well as
singing in the local Festival Choir for the Community Christmas Concert.
While in High School, she was an active member of her class playing tennis for three years, acting in the Jr. and Sr. Class Plays (Pillow Talk and If a Man Answers), singing in Chorus and the Sr. Trio, writing for the Quaker Challenge and ReCall, participating in Tri-Hi-Y, FTA, and Reading Club. She mentioned several great memories from High School, the fondest being in the cast of both the Jr. and Sr. Plays. She also enjoyed being in the choral groups and the Sr. Class trip to Washington. Ann’s favorite class was Advanced Biology. She commented that her favorite teachers were Raymond Ely (Biology), Joseph Little (English), Carolyn Potser (English), and Barbara Znotens (German).
After High School, Ann attended Cedar Crest College in Allentown where she received a BS degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Computer Science. She graduated from Cedar Crest Magna Cum Laude and was inducted into Alpha Mu Gamma (Foreign Language Fraternity). She became certified by IBM in RPG, RPG II, and RPGLE for computer programming. She also was AMA certified for Interpersonal Skills. Ann’s working part of her life began at an early age when, as a nine-year-old she began helping in her father’s butcher shop on Main Street in Quakertown. She worked for Eagle Shirtmakers (under sev-
Logan Hirsch Named UBCTS Student of the Month
Logan Hirsch, a Quakertown Community High School senior, is the Upper Bucks County Technical School’s Student of the Month for September, celebrated for her exceptional achievements and contributions to our school community. As a dedicated member of the Graphic Communications program, Logan consistently earns First Honors and has been recognized with the Most Dedicated Award for her remarkable commitment and enthusiasm.
Logan was influenced to attend UBCTS by her mother, Barbara who is a proud champion for CTEand what it stands for. The decision was then reinforced by her brother, Kayen, a proud UBCTS welding alumna. She began her career path here in 9th grade and has not looked back.
her program. She also is a Cooperative Education student employed at DSR Printing in Doylestown. She plans to pursue a career as a printing operations specialist while continuing her passion for tattoo art design and photography.
Logan loves being active in tech and assisting Mr. McClung. She enjoys
Logan's talents shine through her impressive performance in competitions. She stood out among her peers by earning a bronze medal in the SkillsUSA District competition in Advertising and Design. In addition to her academic success, she serves as our school photographer, skillfully capturing significant moments and enriching our visual narrative.
Logan is also a proud National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) member and has achieved Outstanding Level III award in
developing her leadership skills and helping students understand the Graphics Communications program better. Her efforts are rewarded when Mr. McClung’s wife bakes her special mocha cookies for her to enjoy.
In her spare time, Logan likes snowboarding, rollerblading, and photography.
Her blend of academic excellence, creative talent, and future aspirations exemplifies the spirit of our school community. Congratulations, Logan, on embodying dedication and excellence!
en different corporate names) for over 29 years. She started working there part-time during high school and then full-time after high school. Her earliest position there was doing invoicing and filing. She was later promoted to Manager of Customer Services, then to Director of Marketing Services, then to Manager of Systems Administration. She then worked in the IT Department at Synthes, a manufacturer of orthopedic transplants for 21 years.
Ann is now retired, but as you can see from her volunteerism, she is still highly active. Today, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and continues to play tennis.
Ann has been married to Eric Hellmann for 57 years. They have two daughters (Erica and Krista), three granddaughters,
two grandsons, one great grandson and one great granddaughter. The Foulke/ Hellmann family have a long history of graduating from QCHS. Ann’s Mother, Grace Schlicter Foulke graduated in 1942. Her sisters, Barbara Foulke Baumbach in 1962, Sharyn Foulke Braybrook in 1964. Her brother, Raymond, graduated in 1972. His wife Marilyn Nickerson Foulke, graduated that year as well. Her daughter, Erica Hellmann Watson graduated in 1985. Daughter Krista Hellmann Styer graduated in 1986. Krista’s husband, Todd Styer graduated in 1986. 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 Page “Quakertown High School Alumni Association” and the Alumni pages of the QCSD.org website for more information. We are a 501(c)3 organization and always welcome any contributions toward our scholarship endeavors. If you are interested in donating, email Qchsalumniboard@gmail.com and you will receive instructions on how to do so. Comments and ideas for future articles can be sent to Ray Fox at rdefox@msn.com. The Alumni board is a group of dedicated people who strive to support the students and alumni as much as we can. You could say that we “bleed blue” but more importantly, that we embody two commonly known Quakertown mottos:
Quakertown Community and Pennridge High Schools Celebrate AP Capstone Diploma, Seminar & Research Certificate Recipients
Six Quakertown Community High School students earned the AP Capstone Diploma and two students earned the AP Seminar and Research Certificate during the 202324 school year. The AP Capstone Diploma program helps students develop critical thinking, research, collaboration, and presentation skills that are essential to academic success.
“I am proud of our students’ accomplishment of earning the AP Capstone Diploma,” said QCHS Principal Mattias van’t Hoenderdaal. “Their accomplishment is an affirmation of their exceptional performance and dedication to continued learning. Their commitment and pursuit of academic excellence are commendable, and I am proud of their demonstration of critical thinking, problem solving, and research skills.”
“We are thrilled for the six individuals who earned the AP Capstone Diploma™,” said Quakertown Community School District (QCSD) Superintendent Dr. Matthew Friedman. “The hard work of the QCHS students enrolled in the AP Capstone Diploma program and the dedication of our QCHS teachers and administrators demonstrates their commitment to academic excellence and desire to graduate with the future-ready skills to be successful, engaged citizens.”
To receive the AP Capstone Diploma, students must earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar, AP Research, and on four additional AP® Exams of their choice. To receive the AP Seminar and Research Certificate, students must earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research. Five is a perfect score. Student participation in the AP Capstone program has been steadily increasing, with More than 100,000 students in over 2,500 schools worldwide taking part during the 2023-24 academic year. Approximately 21,000 students earned the AP Capstone Diploma, and 11,100 students earned the AP Seminar and Research Certificate.
Unlike traditional AP subject exams with a single end-of-year assessment, AP Seminar and AP Research assessments are project based and evaluate skills mastery through group projects, presentations, and individual essays completed throughout the year. Instead of focusing on one specific academic discipline, AP Seminar and AP Research are interdisciplinary: Students are encouraged to create research projects based on topics of personal interest. Students are assessed on the critical thinking, research, collaboration, time management, and presentation skills needed to complete their projects.
The following QCHS students, all current seniors, earned the AP Capstone Diploma:
Grace Dakuginow, Steven Hermann, Henry Moyer, Kenneth Nguyen, Marianna Opiola, and Sara Steelesmith.
In addition, Gwyneth Trumbore (Class of 2024) and Kara Woods (senior) earned
Seminar and AP Research assessments are project based and evaluate skills mastery through group projects, presentations, and individual essays completed throughout the year. Instead of focusing on one specific academic discipline, AP Seminar and AP Research are interdisciplinary: Students are encouraged to create research projects based on topics of personal interest. Students are assessed on the critical thinking, research, collaboration, time management, and presentation skills needed to complete their projects.
In 2023-24, QCHS returned to preCOVID-19 numbers for AP Scholar Awards. The high school had 73 AP Scholars, 21 AP Scholars with Honors and 38 AP Scholars with Distinction. AP Scholar Awards recognize students that excel on their exams. AP Scholar students are those that score 3 or higher on three or more exams, AP Scholar with Honors are students that score 3.25 or higher on all AP exams they take and score 3 or more on at least four exams, and AP Scholar with Distinction is any student scoring at least a 3.5 on the exams and a 3 or more on five exams.
At Pennridge High School, four students have earned the AP Capstone Diploma during the 2023-24 school year.
Pennridge Superintendent Angelo Berrios is full of pride for these students and this significant academic accomplishment. Berrios said, “We are incredibly proud of our students who have earned the prestigious AP Capstone Diploma. This accolade is a testament not only to the academic rigor and high standards of the AP Capstone Program but also to the dedication of our exceptional teachers who deliver high-level instruction every day. Through the challenges of AP Seminar, AP Research, and multiple additional AP exams, our students have demonstrated excellence in critical thinking, collaboration, and research, essential skills for college and career success. This accomplishment speaks to the thriving culture of academic achievement at Pennridge, and we are excited to see how our students will continue to excel and make meaningful contributions in their future endeavors.”
Of the four students who earned the AP Capstone Diploma at Pennridge High School:
12th Grader, Katelyn Eberhardt has taken 6 AP Exams through her 11th Grade year with an average score of 3.67. She is also taking 2 more AP Courses this School Year.
Class of 2024 Graduate, Alexandra Roehl completed 7 AP Exams and averaged a 3.71. She is attending Muhlenberg University.
Class of 2024 Graduate, Stella Siokos completed 8 AP Exams at PHS and averaged a 3.38. She is attending Lehigh University.
Class of 2024 Graduate, Sophia
During the 2023-2024 school year, Pennridge High School continued to thrive and increase opportunities for students to earn college credits through AP courses and Dual enrollment!
For the second straight year, 83% of the 913 AP exams taken earned college credit with a score of 3 or higher!
475 students took AP exams during the 2023-2024 School Year, the most ever.
In nearly 90% of our offered AP Courses, Pennridge students exceeded both the State and Global Mean scores and, in many cases, to a substantial degree.
In over 90% of AP offerings, Pennridge students exceeded both the State and Global Mean scores.
Additionally, in 2023-2024, PHS students challenged themselves to the rigor of 27 total AP courses, and in 2024-2025, another course will be added making the new total- 28 AP courses!
“We have been witnessing students’ renewed passion for learning through the AP Capstone program,” shared Bianca Peart, global lead of the AP Capstone Diploma program. “Together with the guidance of talented educators, students are building essential college and career readi
dents who worked so hard to earn AP Capstone Diplomas and AP Seminar and Research Certificates,” said Trevor Packer, head of the Advanced Placement® Program. “These students are creating the pathways for their future academic and professional careers by building highly sought-after skills in project management, presentation, collaboration, and research.”
College Board’s Advanced Placement® Program (AP®) gives students the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses while still in high school. Earning a score of 3 or higher on an AP Exam has multiple benefits for students, including earning college credit, advanced place-
ment in college courses, or both, saving them time and money. Research shows AP students are better prepared for and more likely to enroll and remain in college, do well in classes, and earn their degrees on time. Each exam is developed by a committee of college and university faculty and AP teachers, ensuring that AP Exams align with their high standards.
In partnership with the higher education community, College Board developed
(top photos) Pennridge 2023-24 AP Capstone Diploma recipients: top row: Alexandra Roehl ‘24,Stella Siokos ‘24. bottom row: Katelyn Eberthardt ‘25, Sophia Trumbower ‘24. (above photo) Quakertown 2023-24 AP Capstone Diploma recipients: left to right: Steven Hermann, Henry Moyer, Marianna Opiola, Grace Dakuginow and Sara Steelesmith. not pictured Kenneth Nguyen. submitted photos
Stealing Crazy Bennie's Cherries
Back In the nineteen-sixties, Crazy Benny was a crabby old man that, we believed, hated kids. He lived on E. Erie Ave. in Quakertown. His weedy backyard and disheveled garage/ shed abutted the alley that joins up Erie with Penrose Street. Across the alley from Benny’s garage, along the edge of grassy lots we called Mr. Etter’s fields, there was a row of scraggly fruit trees. One produced green apples about the size of plums that were hardly eat-able. A pear tree had fruit so hard and tasteless only birds and bugs bothered with them. There also was a mulberry tree that got tiny, sour berries. Directly across from Crazy Benny’s shed, though, was a cherry tree. Its fruit was delicious, big, and some years there were millions of them.
Nobody used any of that fruit. It just scattered the ground. Cars driving down the alley crushed it and the area always smelled like sour beer. Yellowjackets and ants swarmed the browning, mashed fruit. Despite the poor quality, we thought it was a terrible waste.
Grammy Hinkel could make applesauce, and even pies, out of the lousy apples from her backyard. Whenever we passed Crazy Benny’s (actually, Mr. Etter’s), fruit trees, we’d skip the mulberries but maybe look around for some decent apples or pears. We always gorged on the cherries, though. It wasn’t our property so it ‘felt’ like stealing. We were careful to not get caught.
Crazy Benny never did anything to me, personally, but I’d heard all about him from other kids. He screamed at and tried to chased the Wilson kids when they were just checking out his shed. He shook his cane at and threatened Hillgargh when he was only cutting across backyards. Even Shanely got in trouble for being too loud on the sidewalk with his squealy voice. It was best to avoid him.
My mom knew who Crazy Benny was (she didn’t call him that—I forget his last name). He was a widower who lived alone now—except for a pet parrot. She said Benny was just “old and a little odd”. We were supposed to leave him alone. I was nervous whenever he was sitting on the front porch when I walked past. He was gray, chubby and had squinty, mean looking eyes. He always watched me go by but never did or said anything. I sometimes
One year Crazy Benny’s tree was packed with cherries. My mom bought blueberries at Charlie Hoffman’s grocery store so we had a couple of regular fruit boxes. I was always coming up with schemes to make extra money--selling lemonade, comic books, or pine branches and holly sprigs at Christmas--so I thought: “We could sell cherries!” I enlisted my brother, Dan. We dumped the blueberries into a bowl, took the empty boxes and headed for the cherry tree. We picked most of them off the ground because it was easier and it didn’t feel as much like stealing. We were ‘salvaging’, preventing them from going to waste. We ate a lot of them, too. Somebody always stood guard in case Crazy Benny came out. We could be seen from lots of back windows and were afraid someone would call the police or worse; tell Benny. Half the cherries on the ground were rotting already so, to fill our boxes we quickly picked from the tree. Our haul was mixed with leaves and stems and was dirty so we had to wash them before trying to sell them.
We didn’t want our mom asking questions so we went up the alleys to our grandparents’ place on Penrose St. The car was gone so my grandmother wasn’t home. Just Grandpop was there and he needed a walker to get around. We went to the garden hose spigot by the side of the house. After we’d washed the cherries, I spotted Grandpop looking out the window at us. He must have heard the water running and came to see. We pretended we didn’t see him and went home. By the time we got there, Grandpop had already called our mom. We’d left
the cherries outside the back door but as soon as we walked in, she had her angry face on and said, “Where’d you get the cherries?” I’d learned to just stay quiet in those cases but Dan blurted out, “What cherries?” She found them and when we finally told her where we got them, she yelled at us for stealing. We argued it was ‘salvage’, to no avail. She told us to give the cherries back to Crazy Benny right away and apologize (she didn’t know it was really Mr. Etter’s tree, either). It took more courage than Dan and I could muster. We walked the long way over to Crazy Benny’s avoiding the alleys and the crime scene. We dawdled in front of Hillgarth’s before we got up the nerve to cross the street to Benny’s house. Dan was too scared to set foot on the property or even the front sidewalk so I had to take both boxes up onto the porch. The curtains were cracked. I could see part of the bird cage but not the parrot. Then, my courage failed. I didn’t try to apologize, didn’t even ring the doorbell. I just put down the cherries, in our boxes, and scrammed. We told our mom that Crazy Benny wasn’t home (though we knew he always was). Later I sneaked back to check. The cherries were gone. Crazy Benny had probably been watching the whole time, or maybe the parrot told him and he got the cherries. After we learned it was really Mr. Etter’s tree we picked cherries there every year. We avoided Crazy Benny but I saw him on the porch sometimes. Then, I heard that he’d died. They said his house was sad and dark inside, but he left a lot of money to take care of his parrot..
saw a bird cage between Benny’s front curtains and once caught a glimpse of yellow and red, but never saw his parrot.
American Legion Post 242 October Update
First of all I wish to thank all those persons involve with serving the public as first responders for taking time out during the week to honor all first responders past and present and the 18 citizens of Bucks County who perished on that fateful day in 2001—SEPTEMBER 11TH! The attendance was surprising for a weekday and this year we were honored by noonday coverage by a local TV Station of our annual event.
Second, I am impressed on how our Post is on the move. We try to maintain a local youth (Scout) camp that was willed to our post. A beautiful pavilion was recently constructed and we will be doing much more at Camp Quabosca. I urge you to try Friday night dinners open to the public. At this time I want to mention a certain dinner that I consider myself an expert on. “Stuffed Peppers.” I have eaten stuffed pepper meals at many different restaurants, as this is one of my favorite local meals. This stuffed pepper with mashed potatoes and broccoli was absolutely the BEST I ever had and it cost on $10.95! It was huge! The pepper was just cooked to perfection not to hard or to soft.
wife and I share a meal with this special. Our meetings are very interesting with many good ideas on how to improve our Post. Come on out to witness and learn what are Post is all about.
VOLUNTEERS, Volunteers, Volunteers!
Our Post is starting to attract many new members and the reason it is happening is that the public is witnessing an organization that is “On the move.” We have many wonderful ideas that should be part of this move. We can only do this with “Many Hands” helping to bring these ideas to life. Let’s keep this fantastic movement going.
As a team we are the best and can remain as the best! Everybody wants the benefits of moving forward; but that only can be achieved if we all share the burden. We have one of the few “Honor Guards” that are active and these fellow soldiers do a fantastic job and are well known in Upper Bucks and the surrounding areas. How about it, let us all get together to take this Post to new heights!
2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Toyota’s RAV4 has been the company’s best-selling compact SUV and has been made even better with the addition of a hybrid system. And who knows more about hybrids than Toyota where it all started with their iconic Prius Hybrid sedan.
For 2024, RAV4 has a new addition with the outdoors-oriented Woodland edition that joins the XLE, SE, XLE Premium, XSE and top shelf Limited.
We tested the RAV4 AWD Hybrid Woodland edition that comes with what Toyota calls a “trail-tailored” suspension that’s a tad stiffer than the XLE’s. It also comes with a more chiseled exterior with
bronze-colored alloy wheels and two-tone paint with our test car sporting a woodsy Army Green paint job.
floor is also a low 26 inches. And beneath the cargo floor is space saver spare tire with tiny space around it to stow small items. The neat cargo mat, like the floor mats, have raised pine tree motifs to signify the Woodland edition.
As a hybrid, the powertrain consists of a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that generates 176-hp and 163 lb/ft of torque. With the addition of two electric motors, one of which drives the rear wheels, RAV4 Hybrid has a total system output of 219-hp for EPA mileage ratings of an impressive 38 city, 35-highway mpg. So powered the RAV carries a tow rating of 1,750 pounds, or enough for a small utility or boat trailer. The combination of the hybrid system and CVT transmission moves the RAV’s 3,775-pound curb weight with ease. There’s certainly no want for power either from a standing stop to highway passing maneuvers. Handling too is good with a relatively tight turning radius of 36.1 feet that makes it easy to park in tight spots. And the ride is smooth and quiet on Falken 18-inch tires that are 8 inches wide.
RAV4 Hybrid comes with a long list of safety features within Toyota’s Safety
The mixture of meat, rice, and other ingredients, perfect! The tomato sauce on top just right. Troy, you outdid yourself. The 3'd’Friday is Cheese Steak night with fries at a price you wouldn’t believe. My
OH, HEAVENS NO! I took over Mitzi’s column but I am not a costume wearer. I’ll leave that to my dog sister Maisie. I don’t mind my nifty Bowtie. I’ll let her give me different neck jewelry and maybe a manly shirt but these head pieces are not for me. It’s hard to find a shirt to fit me. The shirts that are wide enough for my body end up being too long on my body. I’m kind of the Danny DiVito of dogs. I refused to look at her camera. She kept making stupid noises trying to get me to look. We sometimes have to set some rules around our humans. I plan on seeing you all at Autumn Alive. Not sure what else is on my calendar this month but I don’t want a costume.
~ Love Peanut
Third, remember that Veteran’s Day is approaching and this year the service will be down at Pennridge. The November newsletter will give further details. Try to get out to one of our local restaurants to enjoy an appreciation meal. It is their way of saying, “Thanks.”.
~ For God & Country, Dick Helm
Although the Woodland is set up for off-roading, it’s mainly suited for mild trails as it only has 8.1 inches of ground clearance. But it can easily handle modest snow depths that we get here in the Snowbelt.
RAV4 Hybrid’s interior is very functional with a low 19-inch step-in and soft long-wearing cloth seats that offer decent lumbar support. An 8-inch infotainment touchscreen offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Cloud navigation, some voice control plus Wi-Fi Hotspot that are all initiated through a Drive Connect app. A rearview camera with 360-degree is standard.
The vertical stack contains simple to use HVAC controls along with a burly gear selector for the CVT transmission that shares the space with a rotary drive mode switch for Eco and Sport modes. There’s also a separate EV switch for all electric operation over short distances. A large Trail Mode switch controls spinning of the drive wheels by simultaneously controlling AWD, brake and drive force systems. Toyota says it’s used when driving bumpy roads.
Over on the digital speedometer, it’s enhanced with a driver information display for alerts, functions and features. A hybrid gauge where a conventional tachometer would be shows Power, Eco and Charge modes. Keeping the needle in Eco gives the best fuel economy.
RAV’s back seat is equally as comfy as the fronts with seating room for two adults or three youngsters as the transaxle hump is low-profile allowing for a short-legged passenger.
Back in the cargo area and with the rear seats upright, there’s 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space that measures 38.5 inches deep, 43 wide and 32 high. Flip the split 60/40 rear seatbacks and space increases to 69.8 cubic feet for 69 inches of cargo loading depth. Lift-over onto the cargo
Sense 2.0 that includes pre-collision warning system with pedestrian detection, full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert w/steering assist, lane tracing assist, road sign assist, blind spot monitor w/rear cross traffic alert and more.
The only options on the RAV were the Woodland Weather package ($925) that includes heated leather seats/steering wheel and rain sensing wipers w/deicer feature, and two-tone exterior paint ($500) that took the base price of $34,695 to $37,470 with delivery. The roof paint job can be eliminated to shave $500 off the price.
RAV4 Hybrid was awarded a full five stars as an overall safety score, four for driver frontal crash, five for passenger; five for front/rear seat side crash, and four for rollover. RAV4 also received a Top Safety Pick award from the Institute for Highway Safety. All top scores.
RAV4 Hybrid is covered under a 3 year/36K miles new vehicle warranty while the powertrain is covered for 5/60K miles and the hybrid battery is warranted for 10/150K. Other hybrid components get 8/100K mile coverage along with 2/25K miles for complimentary scheduled maintenance.
The least I can say is that the RAV4 AWD Hybrid is my next new car buy. I liked it that much.
St. Luke’s to Offer Free DNA Screenings for Health Research
St. Luke’s University Health Network is excited to launch a new community health research program called DNA Answers along with Helix, a leading population genomics company.
DNA Answers aims to understand how providing individuals and their health care providers with more information about their DNA can help improve health care for individuals, families, and communities and support new research discoveries.
The program hopes to reach 100,000 participants in our community who are age 18 or older and who have not had a donor bone marrow or donor stem cell transplant. There is no cost and health insurance is not required to participate.
If you choose to participate, you, your healthcare provider, and the study team will receive results about your genetic risk for certain cancers and heart disease.
The research program will also develop a secure research database that will include this genetic information. Over time, this research database is intended to help researchers learn what may cause certain diseases, how to treat them more effectively, and help improve the standard of health care for all.
Gaining a better understanding of your genetic health risks can help you and your doctor personalize your health care and plan for a healthier future. All participants will learn about their inherited risk for common cancers such as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, and colorectal cancer; and heart disease due to hereditary high cholesterol.
Participants also have the opportunity to learn about their ancestry and other traits like, caffeine sensitivity, sleep patterns and more.
Learn more at www.DNAanswers.org
St. Luke’s 'Baby & Me' Center Offers Breastfeeding Support and more
Few, if any, events affect your life more than having a baby. While this can be an incredibly joyous time, most people, including mothers’ intent on breastfeeding their babies, could benefit from the help of knowledgeable and supportive people.
St. Luke’s Baby & Me Support Center, the most comprehensive program of its kind in the region, provides mothers, fathers, support persons and family members with various services commonly needed before, during and after pregnancy. There are three locations: Bethlehem, Center Valley and Palmerton.
Clinical services include breastfeeding medicine led by Rima Strassman, MD, FAAP, FABM, NABBLM-C, medical director of lactation services at St. Luke’s University Health Network (SLUHN) and St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital and pediatrician.
Dr. Strassman is among the first physicians to become board-certified in breastfeeding and lactation medicine. She was one of about 100 physicians in the U.S. and Canada, and the only one in the region, to pass the North American Board of Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine’s Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine pilot certification exam, which she took in October.
“It’s my job to make sure that the baby is well fed, and the family is happy with their decision to breastfeed,” she said. She helps with issues like low milk production, over-production and babies who have trouble transferring milk.
As a specialist in breastfeeding and lactation, Dr. Strassman diagnoses why mothers and their newborns have difficulty transferring milk and helps find a solution. She works with lactation consultants at the center.
While problems often arise when mother and baby return home, lactation support begins in the hospital.
“The new board certification will help elevate breastfeeding in medical schools,” she said. “St. Luke’s is a big teaching hospital, and we have the opportunity to have someone like me teach the next generation of physicians more about it.”
Dr. Strassman explained that lactation and breastfeeding medicine specializes in the diagnosis and management of
breastfeeding-related issues as it pertains to the health of the mother and baby.
Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of coronary artery disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and several types of cancer, including breast, ovarian and thyroid. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of postpartum depression and obesity.
Breast milk provides a baby with ideal nutrition, supports growth and development, and helps protect against certain illnesses and diseases.
“Educating families about their feeding choices and helping them make the right choices for them is what I like most about breastfeeding medicine,” she said.
St. Luke’s Baby & Me Support Center mothers, fathers and other caregivers to successfully care for their growing families.
“It is a privilege to support every family throughout one of the most important experiences of their lives – having and caring for a baby,” said Jessika Haynos, vice president, pediatric services line, St. Luke’s University Health Network. “St. Luke’s has always been known for providing the highest level of maternal and newborn care through a compassionate and personalized approach.”
St. Luke’s behavioral health therapists at the Bethlehem location help moms experiencing postpartum symptoms.
Pediatrician Rima Strassman, MD, medical director of lactation services, said that, like in adolescence, transitioning to becoming a parent involves emotional and physical changes throughout the body.
“In our society today, we don’t have the support systems like we once did, and that’s what we’re trying to offer through the St. Luke’s Baby & Me Support Center,” Dr. Strassman said.
Services include: lactation support, postpartum support, support groups where new moms receive encouragement from the St. Luke’s team and socialize with other moms, and ‘Tummy Time,’ a free hands-on class, where a physical therapist instructs mothers on the importance of babies lying on their tummies and how to succeed with Tummy Time at home.
For more information, visit sluhn.org/ womens/obstetrics or call 484-526- 2229.
Pediatrician Rima Strassman, MD, talks with a mother and her baby. Dr. Strassman is the medical director of lactation services at St. Luke’s University Health Network and St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital. submitted photo
HEALING BEGINS WITH at the St. Luke’s Cancer Center Hope
With You Every Step of the Way
When it comes to choosing cancer care, choose the team you can trust. The best team of experts with complete services and the finest facilities. At St. Luke’s, we deliver world class cancer care with personalized treatment plans. From superior radiation therapy and state of the art infusion technology to groundbreaking clinical trials. We give you hope with unparalleled compassion and support. Right here. All in one location.
• Accredited Cancer Center
• Dedicated West Wing Parking and Entrance
• Dedicated Parking Lot, Badged Entrance and Express Self Check-in for Regular Radiation Patients
• Infusion Therapy
• Radiation Therapy
• Cancer & Fertility
• Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy
• Navigators & Counselors
• Genetic Counseling
• Classes & Support Groups
• Palliative & Supportive Care
• Insurance & Financial Support SERVICES
• Healing Arts
• Nutrition
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Political Beanie Babies Toys Highly Valued
The vintage toy market is emotional, to say the least. One reason why collectors remain committed to collecting toys associated with childhood is based on memories. With the Presidential campaign of 2024 ending, collectible objects associated with the race for the White House are at their height of popu larity. Toys associated with play and politics are bought and sold to keep the can didates in front of voters’ minds. The widespread media coverage of political campaigns represents a fabulous opportunity to sell the stuff that goes along with running for office. From bobbleheads and action figures to coloring books and Ty Inc. beanie babies, political objects are all the rage now.
What’s hot? Political campaigns have rejected the idea of giving away functional item to inspire voters like buttons and signs. Sure, these are available, but after the campaign ends, these are not the objects that resellers or collectors are looking for. What are they looking for? The items that hold their value in the political collectibles market are items like the George W. Bush jack-in-the-box, John Kennedy /Lyndon Johnson cigarette light er, Mitt Romney bobblehead toys, Bill Clinton soft plush pillow dolls, Donald J. Trump coloring books, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton action figures.
for the Presidential campaigns in 2000, 2004, and 2008 which were marketed to collectors. Today, there are millions of the small stuffed toys with cute names available on the market. Those that are not on the market are, and I know this from the numerous video call appraisals I conduct to evaluate the Ty Inc. beanie babies toys, safely stored in plastic tubs located in attics, basements, and storage lockers worldwide. These red, white, and blue stuffed animals from nearly 20 years ago are among the pricey offerings on online platforms like eBay. com and Etsy.com, auction websites from estates all over the US, and social media pages like Facebook, Instagram, etc. In addition to the Lefty and Righty beanie babies toys, Ty Inc. also manufactured a set of three mini beanie babies called the political trio of teeny beanies including Lefty (donkey), Righty (elephant), and Libearty (white bear). Find them in their original packages with their tags intact and you’ve got some valuable election toys.
For example, a pair of Ty Inc. Beanie Babies stuffed plush toys are collectible and have a political connection, too. The pair of beanie babies are a red, white and blue stuffed donkey named Lefty to represent the Democratic party and an similarly patriotic colored elephant named Righty to attract Republicans to the collectible stuffed toys. These Beanie Babies toys were first manufactured in 1996 for the Presidential campaign between President William (Bill) Jefferson Clinton and Republican hopeful Bob Dole of Kansas. The Ty Inc. company continued to produce Lefty and Righty stuffed beanie babies toys
Want to sell or trade your political collectibles? List them online no later than October 15 to ride the intense press wave of any political season. To attract buyers to your listings, make sure you tell the backstory of your political playthings, post tightly cropped photographs with no hands or visual distractions in the background and include an interesting anecdote about the Presidential candidate or about the current campaign. Answer comments and questions in a timely manner. Use this time to market your online political collectibles well before election day arrives. If you need more selling tips, check out my videos about how to sell for top dollar. Political beanie babies are all the rage now as we select our next White House resident.
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Halloween can be scary and stressful for a lot of dogs. Every Halloween, your dog’s world is turned upside down with ringing doorbells and excited kids. In addition, the candy that drops to the floor could be hazardous to their health. Here are some tips to keep them safe.
1. Dog costumes. Dogs can look adorable in Halloween costumes. If you decide to dress them up, make sure costumes are simple and loose-fitting. Detailed costumes can make it difficult for dogs to move and cause injury if they get spooked and take off running. If you try a costume on your dog and he seems aggravated or upset, it’s probably best to avoid using a costume. Try a cute bandanna or t-shirt instead.
2. Keep your dog indoors. It’s probably best to leave him inside behind a secured baby gate, in a closed bedroom, or crated with a safe chewy or food stuffed puzzle toy.
3. Keep decorations out of reach. Keep decorations to a minimum, especially with a young dog or puppy. Wagging tails and excitement can easily knock things over. Nobody wants a Halloween fire caused by a knocked-over candle Jack-o-Lantern. If you find that your dog enjoys chewing on your newest Halloween decorations, apply bitter apple spray. The spray is a nontoxic, safe, and effective chew deterrent for most dogs.
4. Make sure your dog is wearing identification. Some dogs will do whatever they can to get outside. With your
Halloween Dog Safety
door opening and closing numerous times during all the commotion, their escape can be easier than normal. If they’re wearing their ID and are microchipped, they can safely be returned easily if they sneak out.
5. Seek care immediately. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, the four most common food related hazards for pets around Halloween are:
• Chocolate
• Candy overindulgence
• Raisins
• Candy wrappers
If your pet is showing signs of illness or you think your pet may be poisoned, contact your local veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center ASPCA 888-426-4435 immediately. The sooner you seek medical treatment the better off your dog will be.
6. Throw away glow sticks immediately. Keeping your kids visible during Trick-or-Treating should be your number one priority. If you choose to use glow sticks, make sure you safely throw them away immediately after use. While non-life threatening, the liquid inside the glow sticks can cause: irritation, pain, excessive drooling, and foaming of the mouth.
Have a fun but safe Halloween, everyone. I hope to see you all out for the Autumn Alive! Pet Pageant Costume contest this year!
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