September 17 Trumbauersville Community Pancake Breakfast, 8am-11am at Veterans Park Pavilion, 140 Woodview Dr (behind UCC Church). Pancakes, Sausages, OJ, Coffee/Tea. All for $3. Donate a non-perishable food item for Food Pantry. Indoor Craft Show 9am-4pm in Event Rm 201 at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. Vendors change every weekend. Text George at 267-884-5956 to register. ‘Pints for Pups’ 4pm-7pm at Two Rivers Brewing Tap Room, 116 E Broad St, Quakertown. $1 donated to Last Chance Ranch for every pint sold all day. Raffles, 50/50 tkts, adoptable dogs. FMI: 215-538-2510 Upper Bucks Brewfest 1pm-5pm at the Park at 4th, 301 W Mill St, Quakertown.Tickets on sale now. FMI: 215-536-2273. 30th Annual Coopersburg Community Day, 10am-5pm at Living Memorial Park, E Landis St. Free admission, Free entertainment & Free parking. Food, crafts, antique cars, kids’ activities. FMI: coopersburgcommunityday. org‘Fall Festival/Open House’ 10am-4pm at Strassburger Farmstead, 407 Keystone Dr & Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville. Local artisans, antiques, demos of rug hooking & more. Baked goods. Explore the Homestead areas. Free, donations welcome. FMI: 267-614-9174 ‘Big Red Cornament’ 1pm-5pm at Souderton Area HS Stadium, 825 Lower Rd, Souderton. $50/adult team, $20/student team. Food, raffles, prizes. Register by Sept 1. FMI: rpotter@indianvalleyef.org22ndAnnualPeaceFair 10:30am-4pm at Buckingham Friends Meetinghouse, 5684 York Rd, Lahaska. Crafts, art, food, games, animals & area non-profits. Live music, tour 250 yr old Quaker Meetinghouse. Free, donations welcome. FMI: 215-794-2708 ‘Friends of Riegelsville Library’ Flea Mkt Fundraiser 9am-2pm on lawn of the Library, 615 Easton Rd. (vendors $15/space, call 908319-3706) Free admission. Food tent w/chairs. Parking & restrooms available on premises. September 18 54th Pennridge Gallery of the Arts, 12noon5pm at Main St, Sellersville. Arts, crafts, food trucks, refreshments, music, family activities. FMI: galleryofthearts.org or 215-872-9858 “Country Jades” FREE Concert 10am-2pm (Rm 201) at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. FMI: 215-536-4115 Souderton “Food Crawl” (benefits Food Program) 3pm-6pm begins at 105 N Main St. Munch along Main & Broad Sts as you visit eateries & shops along the way. Tkts: Event $60, Raffle 10 for $10. FMI: beanbagfoodprogram.orgOpenHouse,onlyOctagonal Schoolhouse left in Bucks County (1802-1850) listed on Natl Register of Historic Places. Free! Located at corner of Swamp Rd & Second St Pike (Rte 232), Wrightstown Twp. 215-598-7534, 215-870-2013
October 2 10th Annual NOVA No Bullying Run Virtual Event. (Oct 1-Oct 31) First annual “Upstander Day” for the Run, Sunday 9am11am (family fun/entertainment) at Central Park, Doylestown. FMI/regis: runsignup.com/ NovasNoBullyingRun
5th Anniversary of Complete Wellness in Quakertown, 10am-2pm. Raffles, vendors, ‘Show-n-Tell’. FMI: cwquakertown.com Flea Market 9am-2pm at Dublin Fire Co, 194 N Main St. Breakfast/lunch available outdoors by Auxiliary. ($20/space, bring own tables. Call 215-249-3089) September 24 & 25 ‘FREE FALL 2022!” at Free Fall Action Park in Quakertown. Walking-tacos, water ice & passionate athletes (all for FREE) DAY 1-Challenges for skate, scooter & BMX, also 3v3 Basketball Tournament. FMI: freefallqtown.com/registration. DAY 2-Pro-Skater Beaver Fleming will host Skate Church Event. Volunteers can register at: freefallqtown.com/volunteer New Hope Arts/Crafts at New Hope Solebury HS, 180 W Bridge St. (10am-4pm both days) 160+ artists/craftspeople. All kinds of art using many different materials. FMI: 267-756-3443. September 25 ‘Hurried, Buried & Waived’ (based on a Parable) presented by Pastor Dave Weiss (Springfield Church of the Brethren) 1pm at First Church of the Brethren, 455 Trumbauersville Rd, Quakertown. Free will offering. Handicapped accessible. BCSPCA Barn Bash Fundraiser 1pm-5pm at Barley Sheaf Farm in Buckingham Twp. (r/s, indoor & outdoor). Kittens, gourmet food, drinks, auction, raffle baskets. Adults only. FMI/tkts: 215-794-7425, buckscountyspca.org “Pipes 4 Paws Charity Motorcycle Ride” (for Logan’s Heroes Animal Shelter) at Mission BBQ in Whitehall, PA. FMI: LHARinc.org/ events or 484-719-7101. Registration starts at 10am.Designer Bag Bingo, (open 11:30am) 1pm at Lenape Banquet Hall, Sellersville Fire Dept, 2 N Main St. $30/adv, $35/door if available. Tkts: 215-257-4028 x302. Food for purchase. NO alcohol.
September 16 26th Annual Coat Drive begins today (continues to Nov 6) at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. Accepting clean, gently used Winter Coats for the Salvation Army. Drop off donations at Exit 4 inside. 3rd Fridays in Souderton, 6pm-9pm at Corner of Main & Chestnut St, Souderton. Live music, food trucks, beer garden, ice cream, vendors, more. FMI: 215-723-6627 or contact@3rdfri.com FREE Shredding Event 10am-12noon. Limit 5 boxes or bags. No folders w/metal or paperclips. Donations appreciated. Pennridge Community Center, 146 E Main St, Perkasie.
BBQ/Bake Sale 4:30pm6:30pm at Quakertown United Methodist, 1875 Freier Rd, Quakertown. $15/adults, $7/ kids to age 10. Eat-in or take-out. Outdoor Flea Mkt Fundraiser 9am-2pm (R/D 9/17) Space/$15. Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. FMI: pcdrmission@gmail.com September 10 & 11 31st Doylestown Arts Festival 10am-5pm, free to public. 150+ juried artists, live music on 5 stages & more. FMI: dtownartsfestival. com. On Sunday the Bucks County Classic joins us w/high speed bike races around town. (buckscountyclassic.com)
“Predator Seminar” (doors open 12noon), $10 fee. Great Swamp Fish & Game, 2650 Schukraft Rd, Quakertown. FMI: 215-527-2017S September 20 Quakertown FREE Farmers’ Market 11am-1pm at Memorial Park, 4th & Mill Sts, Quakertown. Please bring your own shopping bags. September 21 ‘Library Trivia’ new day . Quizzo at Indian Valley Library, 100 E Church Rd, Telford at 7pm. Hostmaster Katie. BYOB & Snacks. FREE! Register: 215-723-9109 or ivpl.org September 22 – Autumn begins FREE Substance Abuse & Community Development Training 8:30am-4pm at First UCC, 151 S 4th St, Quakertown. Event targeted at non-profit & faith leaders focused on substance abuse prevention. FMI: info@ FirstUCC.net or 215-536-4447 September 24 Kids’ Themed Flea Market 9am-2pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. Tables/$10 each. Register at Office or email: sara@quakertownfarmersmkt.com (need vendors w/kids’ clothes, shoes, toys, furniture, baby & maternity items) 23rd Annual Open House, 11am-4pm at LCR, 9 Beck Rd, Quakertown. Meet the animals & tour the farm. Vendors, food trucks, animal demos, kids’ activities, pony rides, more. FMI: lastchanceranch.org 215-538-2510 90th Anniversary Fall Festival 11am-3pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. Hot Air Balloon, Inflatable Slide, 8-ft tall Scarecrow on stilts, crafts & music. Check Facebook for events & eating contests. Gift Card Bingo Fundraiser (open 12noon, games 1pm) at Benner Hall, 1260 Cherry St, Richlandtown. Pre-purchase tkts for $25 at Richlandtown Borough FB page, Website or Boro Office. FMI: Sue 215-407-1460 “Smiles from the Heart” FREE dental care for patients in need. Registration starts 7am (first come, first served). Cleaning, Extraction or Filling. First 100 are guaranteed to be seen. Red Hill & Quakertown Offices. FMI: 215679-8033 or redhilldentaloffice.com WWWA Wrestling 6:30pm-9:30pm, Event Rm 201 at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. FMI: 215-362-7184 Meet, Greet, Sell & Eat Day 8am-2pm at St. Paul’s Lutheran, 937 Old Bethlehem Rd, Quakertown. $20/space, hot dogs, soup, baked goods available. FMI: 610-349-0125
September 10 “Let Freedom Ring” Family Community Event supports Tails of Valor (Veterans & Service Dogs) 12noon-9pm at Lower Milford Fire Co, 1601 Limeport Pike, Coopersburg. Live music, kids’ activities, BBQ, beer, vendors, raffles, more. Cornhole Tournament ($10/carload, $5/single, Register online: tailsofvalor.org)
September 4 Jennifer Lynn Craft Show 11am-4pm. Local crafters w/handmade items. Across from Garden Center at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. September 5 Labor Day September 6 Quakertown FREE Farmers’ Market 11am-1pm at Memorial Park, 4th & Mill Sts, Quakertown. Please bring your own shopping bags.
September 11 Patriot Day FREE Concert – Highway Run “Journey” tribute band, 2pm-4pm at Al Reese Park, 100 W Park Ave, Silverdale. FMI: 215-257-5842 Car Cruise w/Good Time Motorvators at Quakertown Dairy Queen on Rte 309 (4pm8pm) Canned Food Drive, $1 donation will go to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. FMI: goodtimemotorvators.comBucksCountyClassic (bike races around Doylestown) FMI/Register: bikereg.com/ bucks-county-classic September 12 Fall Flower Show (free) 6pm-8pm by Minsi Trail Flower Club, Springtown Fire Hall, 3010 Rte 212, Springtown. Trumbauersville Fire Co HOAGIE Sale at 142 N Main St. FMI/Order: Call Karen to order by last Monday of prior month at 215-536-1998 September 14 ‘Coffee & Convos’ at 8am-9am (discussion about free services available to small business, etc.) at Upper Bucks Chamber of Commerce, 21 N Main St, Quakertown. RSVP at ubcc. org/events.
September 29 Apple Dumpling sale (order by 9/29) to be picked up Oct 13, 1pm-4pm at UB Senior Ctr, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Milford Square. Must pay when ordering, cash only, $7. FMI: stop in or call the Center 215-536-3066.
September 16 & 17 10th Annual International Food Festival 12noon-8pm both days at St. Philip Orthodox, 1970 Clearview Rd, Souderton. Also Choir Concert, Gift Bazaar, Kids’ fun, Music, more. Menu online at st-philip.net/festival “Hope 22” (Fri 5:30pm-9pm) (Sat 9am-9pm) at Rte 309 Souderton Exit, 741 N County Line Rd, Souderton. On-site parking. FREE event, Food, Kids’ Block Party, Concerts, Speakers from 60 non-profit org. offering resources. FMI: sweatshirtofhope.org or 215-872-3733
September 2 to 4 Food Truck Festival, 10am-4pm all three days at Lehigh Valley Zoo, 5150 Game Preserve Rd, Schnecksville. Food, fun & furry friends. Included in regular admission. FMI: 610-799-4171 September 3 “Seth Witcher” FREE Concert 9:30am11:30am at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. FMI: 215-536-4115 ‘First Saturday Market’ 9am-1pm at the Triangle Parking Lot, 300 Block of West Broad St, Quakertown. Shop select vendors in the triangle parking lot & stroll to our local smallCommunitybusinesses!Yard Sale/Craft Fair, 8am2pm at Trinity UCC, 1990 Rte 212, Pleasant Valley. Breakfast/lunch/baked goods for sale.
September 28 ‘Dine & Donate’ 4:30pm-9pm at Spor’s General Store, 22 W Broad, Trumbauersville. FMI:Quakertown215-536-1998Business & Professional Women monthly meeting: “Reflexology” w/ Tracey McGovern, 6pm-8pm at McCoole’s Entertainment Ctr, 10 S Main St, Quakertown. $30 incl. dinner. Reserve by 9/24 at 215-5365196 Judy.
September 7 ‘Coffee Club’ monthly 9am at Robert James Investments (discuss current events, economy, investing) in a relaxed, informal setting. Free coffee & donuts. FMI and to register: Victoria 215-583-5013
October 1 “Concert Night!” featuring the band “Freedom in Christ” at First UCC, 151 S 4th St, Quakertown. Doors open 5pm, Concert starts 6pm. All donations to support “The Drop” (After School Center for Teens) “Pumpkin Ball in Paradise” 6pm-10pm at Raymour & Flanigan Atrium, 110 S West End Blvd, Quakertown. (semi-formal attire, please. No jeans or shorts). FMI: QuakertownAlive. com or Palisades215-536-2273.RegionalFire Rescue Community Day & Inauguration of PRFR, 2pm-8pm at Palisades Middle School, 4710 Durham Rd, Kintnersville. Fire prevention fun, food trucks, vendors, fireworks. FMI: 610-847-5131
September 9 ‘Cruise Night’ 5pm-8pm at Dublin Fire Co, 194 N Main St. Good food, Good music, Great cars. Donations welcome. 50/50. FMI: altursi@gmail.com “Hoot Hike” 7:30pm-8:30pm at Hopewell Park, 4695 Hopewell Rd, Center Valley. Meet live owls w/Wildlands Conservancy, then short walk thru Hopewell Park to call resident owls for a response. FMI: 610-282-1171
October 5 ‘Penny Party’ at the Regina Academy, 4050 Durham Rd, Ottsville. Doors open 5pm. (benefits Knights of Columbus 4545), door prizes, 50/50, extravaganza table, food/drinks available. FMI: 215-583-1255.
2 • Upper Bucks Free Press • September 2022 What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?
October 6 15th Annual Upper Bucks Foodie 5:30pm8pm at Sands Chrysler Jeep, 501 N West End Blvd, Quakertown. FMI: ubcc.org/foodie
“Smooth Retsina Glow” FREE Concert 12noon-2pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. FMI: 215-536-4115 “Stonehearth” Concert (bluegrass music) 7pm at Solomon’s UCC, 2990 Bedminster Rd (Rte 113) Perkasie. (between Center School Rd & Kellers Church Rd). $10 per person. FMI: solomonsucc.org or on FB ‘Party at the Park’ (Jason Kutt legacy) 1pm6pm at Univest Performance Ctr, 301 W Mill St, Quakertown. FMI/Tkts $30 at Eventbrite. com. Food for sale, NO alcohol. Lawn seating, bring chair/blanket. Great music by 5 rock bands.‘Yappy Hours’ at Hewn Spirits & Bucks Co Brewery, 31 Appletree Lane, Pipersville. 3pm-7pm a portion of sales donated to LCR Animal Rescue. Petting Zoo, pony rides, food trucks, raffles, adoptable dogs, more. FMI: 215-538-2510AnnualChicken
Now to September 25 Petals 4 Hope’s first SUNFLOWER MAZE. Open 11am-7pm Fri/Sat/Sun (also Mon. Labor Day) Across from Pappy’s Orchard, 2576 Cassel Rd, Coopersburg. Tkts: $7/ea or $25/ family of 4. (proceeds benefit mental health). FMI: petals4hope@gmail.com
Now to September 8 ‘Community Outreach’ at St. Paul’s Blue Church. Collecting towels, blankets & sheets for local animal rescue groups. Drop off at 5900 Applebutter Hill Rd, Coopersburg. FMI: stpaulsbluechurch.org Now to September 24 Zook’s Pot Pie Fundraiser. $5/for 6 inch pie, $3.50/apple dumpling. Pick up orders October 8 from 11am-1pm at Grace UMC, 295 S Main St, Telford. Order at: 215-692-0703.
September 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 3 “For it’s a long, long while from May to December / But the days grow short when you reach September.” - Maxwell Anderson
The Levy family stands in front of School Bus # 737 which they have generously donated to transport students in the Ukraine back and forth to school. The blue tape marks off space that will recognize the businesses and organizations helping to get the bus safely delivered to the school district it will serve in Ukraine, as well as the district’s name. The rest of the bus is covered in well wishes from the men and women who safely transport students in our community every day.
BY GARY WECKSELBLATT
- William Glasser
Commitment
Levy School Bus Company, together with the help of professional car builder, Jamie Orr, and Pennsylvania State Rep. Joe Ciresi, will be donating and shipping one of its very own school buses to the Solomonova School District in Ukraine. The Solomonova School District, located in the western portion of Ukraine, has several schools without a bomb shelter that were shut down due to the Russian invasion and will not be allowed to open this year. This means that less schools are going to be operating with children needing to find transportation in order to continue their requiredwouldclosurestheseaffectedTheduringeducationthewar.studentsbyschoolnowbetowalk an extended length. Through the office of State Representative Joe Ciresi, Pottstown resident and professional car builder, Jamie Orr, reached out to the owner of Levy School Bus Company, Warren Levy, Jr., with this problem. “Knowing what school districts have been through in the last few years with closures during the pandemic and how it affected our children, I felt compelled to help,” said Mr. Levy. As a result, Levy School Bus Company will be donating bus 737, a 2013, 72-passenger school bus to the Ukraine. “These children need all possible options in order to have as much of a normal school year as possible,” said Mr. Levy. the Ukraine, Levy School Bus Company will show the Ukrainian children how much they are thinking of them and wish them a happy school year by inviting its drivers to come out and sign the bus. Drivers will be able to write a theirmessage,smallsignname, wish the bus well travels, or anything they would like to put on the bus. Warren Levy, Jr. also owns Custer’s Garage in Pottstown that serves the Spring-Ford Area School District and Paragon Transit that serves the Salisbury School District in Allentown, so bus 737 will start at Levy School Bus Company in Trumbauersville and will travel to the other terminals next week so that drivers and office staff from all three locations can sign it. The bus accumulated nearly 122,000 miles during its ten-year history, transporting thousands of students for both the Quakertown School District and the Spring-Ford Area School District. Bus 737 will be putting many more miles on the road as it creates new history and new memories for the children of the Solomonova School District in the Ukraine. Headquartered in Trumbauersville, PA, Levy School Bus Company is a family-owned and operated transportation business that has provided bus service to Quakertown and surrounding areas for 95 years. It is currently
4 • Upper Bucks Free Press • September 2022
Levy School Bus Set to Transport Students in Ukraine
Dick Helm is a long time Quakertown area resiDent anD regular contributor Here ubFP. reacH Him at rbH9@verizon net
Motorists must stop when they are behind the bus, meeting the bus or approaching an intersection where a bus is stopped. Motorists following or traveling alongside a school bus must also stop until the red lights have stopped flashing, the stop arm is withdrawn, and all children have reached safety. This includes undivided highways, such as Route 309, for example. “This is one of the most serious traffic offenses that’s impossible to enforce the way it’s set up right now unless you have video pictures,” Board member Chuck Shermer said. According to the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services, drivers across the U.S. are reported to drive past stopped school buses 17 million times a year.
Janet Pelone, Quakertown Community School District’s Director of Transportation and Pupil Services, said “We hope this program will help bring awareness to the community to be more careful around school buses at any time of day. We want everyone to get where they are going, but to do so safely.” Levy School Bus drivers have spoken positively of the program, which is in line with PA Motor Vehicle Code § 3345, and is scheduled to begin in mid-September. Pennsylvania’s Operation Safe Stop reported more than 250 illegal passes in just one school day in 2021, and reports estimate that state school buses are illegally passed 2.18 times per bus per day. Quakertown is no exception. Over time, this safety initiative seeks to curb dangerous driving behavior around school buses. In addition to automated enforcement technology, Levy School Buses will be outfitted with other critical safety features, including interior cameras, GPS tracking, and emergency response solutions. All of this technology has been provided at zero cost to QCSD taxpayers as the program is 100 percent violator funded. Once law enforcement confirms that a violation occurred notice is generated by BusPatrol and sent to the registered owner of the vehicle. No points are assessed to the vehicle’s owner. The violation is $300, with $25 going to a state student safety grant, $25 to the local police department, $100 to QCSD, and $150 to Pennsylvania’sBusPatrol.School Bus Stopping Law requires drivers to stop at least 10 feet away from school buses that have their red lights flashing and stop arm extended. That’s considered the Danger Zone -- the area on all sides of the bus where students are in the most danger of not being seen by the driver (10 feet in front of the bus where the driver may be too high to see a student, 10 feet on either side of the bus where a student may be in the driver’s blind spot, and the area behind the school bus).
Safety at Heart of QCSD Agreement with BusPatrol Visit215-538-5600anyofour 12 Offices QNBbank.com Open a AccountPersonalQNBCheckingToday Learn more and apply online: QNBbank.com/onlinechecking “We learn 10% of what we read, 20% of what we hear, 30% of what we see, 50% of what we see and hear, 70% of what we dis cuss, 80% of what we experience, 95% of what we teach others.”
photos by christopher betz
The Quakertown Community School District has entered into an agreement dedicated to student transportation safety with BusPatrol, which is equipping Levy School Buses with stop-arm enforcement cameras to deter drivers from illegally passing stopped school buses. BusPatrol’s camera system is positioned to capture vehicles that pass a school bus while the stop arm is extended and flashing red lights are activated. Law enforcement, through QCSD partnerships with Quakertown Borough, Richland Township, and State Police, will review the footage to determine whether to issue a violation by mail. “I love this,” said Board member Todd Hippauf. “I think this is a no-brainer.”
When we recall our youth and our activities we shared with family or friends, little did we realize what “Commitment” to being a member of our surrounding society enter our lives. The requirement for Private or Public Schooling or Home Schooling not only taught us fundamentals of the former simpler formulas of reading, writing, and arithmetic; it also prepared us indirectly for Commitment. Were our parents not required by the state to have 180 days a year committed for our education be it any of the above public or private education systems? Thus we were committed. When we play “Organized” sports such as baseball, football, volleyball or team efforts such as gymnastics; aren’t we committed to their rules and regulations and being a certain part of that team? Were we not committed to rules of driving as we learned to drive our Dad’s old Chevy when we turned 16? Most important were we not committed to learning tactics of warfare as a newly drafted recruit not only to protect our National interests but also to help us to return a better person in our National Society Why then do our Social “Volunteer” services such as our various Veteran’s Associations, churches, Youth Sports Teams, Social Clubs that support the less fortunate, Etc. have trouble getting members to commit themselves to help in their endeavors. Many people will join a club that provides special needs for their family and pay their dues and are not seen anymore. When they join they promise to help in the functions of that club that are taken on by its members, such as baseball, helping with veterans needs, helping in outdoor sports organizations for maintaining shooting facilities, fishing facilities, or helping with education. Many pay dues or entrance fees for themselves or family and at the time of need are not seen to help out. Today’s attitude is “I don’t have time to help, let the other guys do it, I paid my dues!” Money doesn’t buy everything! One of the early tycoons in the 20th Century could buy the best steak or lobster for every meal he wanted. Over the years he developed such a severe stomach condition that he only could drink “Mother’s milk” to survive. This milk was purchased from less fortunate mothers in the less fortunate neighborhoods. Why has modern life turned the idea of commitment from fulfilling the words, “We will help” to “here is my money let others do it voluntarily, I’m too busy?” The others are getting to be few and far between and most have gray or white hair. I label this new phenomenon, “The Give Me Society.” This new society wants youth baseball, youth soccer, youth football, a place to shoot bow & arrow, rifle, or teach safety rules for handling all of the above. I paid my dues, let the “Others” handle it!
It is time that we recall what the word “Commitment” means and when we join an organization pledge ourselves to be committed when approached. An organization is only as good as the members’ commitment to work towards a common cause. I hope that this trend soon turns around so we don’t loose these important civic organizations as the older members die off. Say, “Yes, I will help!”
sue Deily Has been a realtor For 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 or 215-872-9865. “Ah, September! You are the doorway to the season that awakens my soul... but I must confess that I love you only because you are a prelude to my beloved October.” - Peggy Toney Horton
It’s a silent, but not lonely, task. A blessing or a I’mcurse?not sure, but out of respect and admiration for our own compulsive cleaning woman Denise, I admit to scrubbing the stove and toilets the day before she is due to visit, along with picking up the massive amount of hair that Fritz continuously sheds, regardless of season or temperature. It’s the right thing to do…from one clean freak to another… JoHn scHaninger is a liFelong resiDent oF Pennsylvania anD Has liveD in uPPer black eDDy For 13 years reacH Him at m12string@aol com
Competition Among Buyers Falls to Two-Year Low
Homebuyers facing competition fell to 44.3% in July, representing the sixth consecutive month of decreases.According to a recent study this is down from 50.9% in June and 63.8% year over year. It’s the lowest rate since April 2020, when real estate had been disrupted by the pandemic. The average home that received multiple offers had 3.5 offers, down from 4.1 in June and down from 5.3 offers a year prior. High mortgage rates and lower-than-normal inventory is making some buyers pump the breaks on their process. While mortgage rates have dropped slightly, consumers are still feeling their impact. Mortgage payments are up 37.3% year over year. New listings are down 12% year over year, the biggest drop in more than two years. However, the total number of properties for sale is up 4% compared to the same time last year. More homes are cutting their prices as well. About 8% of homes each week drop their price, the highest share on record. Only 43% of homes sold above their listing price, down 9% year over year. The average home sold for 100.6% of the listing price. Homes are still not lasting very long on the market. On average, a home is on the market for 22 days, which is up two days year over year, but still shorter than pre-pandemic times. However, homebuying in the Philadelphia and suburban area remains competitive. According to the report, 60.4% of homes had multiple offers, down from 66.2% a year earlier and down 0.6% from June, but the fourth-highest in the country in July.
The Art of Loading the Dishwasher
Loading the dishwasher is an art. I heard the dishwasher running. Usually, I load the beautiful silver stainless Bosch myself, but yesterday Shelli took over. “Did you load the dishwasher?” “Thank“Yes.” you” I said. “Oh no…” I thought. Not everyone is skilled at dishwasher loading. Usually after dinner, I clean up and take care of it. Shelli may try to put a dish in, but I quickly divert and stop her. I’m not even sure how she decides to put things in. Most likely she doesn’t think about it. But the dinner plates go in crooked, bowls right side up so they are filled with water when removed, items that must be hand washed somehow get in there. I think about it… I admit I’m a bit anal about some things…I suppose this is one of them…the only person I have seen as committed to perfectly and economically loading the dishwasher is my stepson Aaron…a master. I could ask him for tips but for some reason that would be embarrassing… Now being a self confessed dishwasher mainliner, I admit there are quite a few cleaning things that I am a little rigid about. Make that clean and organized. I suppose I was always that way. I recall dumping my dad’s toolbox on top of newspaper to straighten and put every single shiny tool into a perfect harmonization of metal. Did the same with his massive coffee can collection full of nuts, bolts, screws, nail, etc…it was great! Not sure where all of this comes from, but should I talk to a therapist about it, it’s probably some sort of primal need and desire to take control of my life… It’s not a by-product of my days growing up…with mom and dad working a crazy amount of hours, and then heading home to take care of five kids, the house, and typically some kind of pet, our house wasn’t exactly crisp, clean, and free of dirt. And I do remember dad digging up the yard to clean out a stopped up septic pipe with his bare, crap-covered hands. No gloves. Possibly that. But for whatever the reasons are…I love to sweep and mop the floors, polish the table, wipe down the kitchen cabinets, and clean the counters (immediately after Shelli has already done it and leaves the room.)
September 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 5
Christa auger, 93, passed peacefully into glory to her Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ on Wednesday, August 10, 2022. Christa was born in Aschaffenburg, Germany and was a German war bride after World War II and came to this country in 1949 with her two year old daughter, Lucretia (Lucy). Two years later in America she had a son, Frankie, who passed at fifty from multiple sclerosis.
Services will be held at the convenience of theArrangementsfamily. are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. sallie CaDe-Potvin, 71, of Reading, PA, passed away at Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center. Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Ezekiel and Estelle (White) Cade. She was the wife of the late Roland Potvin, before he passed away in 1995. Sallie worked as a Nurse Aide for many years. In her spare time, she enjoyed cooking and baking for her family. She was also a skilled seamstress and enjoyed sewing throughout her life. Sallie is survived by her children, Kenyatta Nwako, Kareem Cade, Kamail Williams, and Keith Cade, step-daughter Florenda, (16 grandchildren Kenya Cade, Kalia Cade, Darryl Pringle, Kareem Cade, Darren Pringle, Aliyah Scott, Raven Cade, Cameron Cade, Miciah Williams, Ayaris Cade, Tashmeir Cade, Olivia Cade, Akeem Cade, Khalif Cade, Keyandre Cade, Kharianna Cade, and 13Shegreat-grandchildren).waspredeceased by all her brothers andHonorablesisters. mention to Sallie’s husband John. Thank you for giving our mother the life she deserved, and we know she is with you now. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
Margaret Mary grahaM, age 70, of Quakertown, passed away on July 30, 2022, at St. Luke’s Bethlehem Hospital. Born in Philadelphia, she was a daughter of the late Francis James and Gloria Ann (Moncrief) Graham. She graduated from St. Hubert Catholic High School, Philadelphia in 1970. She later earned her teaching degree from Holy Family College in Philadelphia. She finished with her Master’s in Education from Arcadia University (Beaver College) in Glenside. Margaret was a Sister of Saint Joseph in Chestnut Hill for 14 years. She enjoyed most summer months at the summer retreat convent in Cape May Point N.J. near the lighthouse. She had a passion for teaching children of all ages. She was a Principal at St. Agnes and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School(s); She also enjoyed being around her family. She was a Nun at heart. She also enjoyed spending time with her dog Julie. She loved animals and collectedSurvivinglighthouses.ishersister Barbara Disabella, husband John, nephews, George Hummel, wife Tara, Francis Hummel, wife Rachael, and Nicholas Disabella, wife Stephanie and great nieces and nephews, Tommy, Megan, Hailey, Leah, Michael, and Jacob. Flowers are welcome to be sent to Our Lady of Sacred Heart for mass or memorial contributions may be sent to St. Isidore Elementary School, 603 W Broad Street, Quakertown, PA 18951. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
6 • Upper Bucks Free Press • September 2022 ~Obituaries~
Christa lived in Feasterville, Northeast Philadelphia and spent her final forty years in Melody Lakes, in Quakertown. Christa was dearly loved by all who were blessed to know her and was a loyal friend. She was a lover of animals especially cats, a story teller, an extraordinary seamstress, gardener, cook, and baker. Christa was a member of Zion Evangelical Church and was on the altar guild and prayer chain.Our hearts will ache in missing her. In lieu of flowers contributions to “In Touch Ministries” Pastor Charles Stanley P.O. Box 7900 Atlanta, GA 30357 to advance the Gospel message would be appreciated. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) rev. DonalD ray BerkeBile, 57, of Whitehall died August 16, 2022 in his home. He was the husband of Brenda L. (Apgar) Berkebile. They were married 17 years on August 5, 2022. Born in Doylestown, PA he was the son of the late Victor E. & Arlene A. (Shaulis) Berkebile.Hehad an obsession with music and had a large collection of records, tapes, & CD’s. In addition to his wife he is survived by four children James Verblaauw, Jessica A. English (Marc), Amber H. Weaver (Shaughn) & Jeremy J. Grow (Julie); four grandchildren Lucian, Maya, River, Grayson. He is also survived by his emotional support and pet dog Diamond a King Charles/Dalmation Mix, and two cats Kimba & Lilly.
anna May CrouthaMel passed away on August 18, 2022, one day short of her 96th birthday.Shewas born in Quakertown, PA on August 19, 1926 to the late Howard C. and Mabel (Heintzelman) Trumbower. She was the loving wife of the late William Raymond Crouthamel for 45 years until his passing in 1991. Anna loved sewing and quilting. She made many quilts for her family and her friends at Great Swamp Church where she was in the quilting guild. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Anna enjoyed cooking and baking. Anna is survived by her sons Larry Crouthamel (Mary), James Crouthamel, Alan Crouthamel (Lee); grandchildren Debra, Dawn, Diane, Donna, Dotty, Eric, Laura, and Rachel; 17 great grandchildren; 1 step-great grandchild; 4 great great grandchildren; 3 step great great grandchildren; sisters Beulah Calabrette and Mary Frey; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; husband; and brother Henry Trumbower. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
PatriCia r higgins, 90 of Quakertown died Thursday August 4, 2022, in her home surrounded by her loving family. She was the husband of the late John J. Higgins. Born in Carfin, Scotland she was the daughter of the late John and Mary Rose (McGowan) Cullion. She was an RN at LifeQuest Nursing Center before her retirement. Pat enjoyed traveling to any beach destination especially Ocean City, NJ, St Pete’s, Indian Rocks, and Clearwater all in FL. She was a faithful member of St. Isidore Catholic Church in Quakertown and was a former volunteer at St. Isidore Catholic School. Most important to her was her family and the love she held forShethem.issurvived by a daughter Rose Higgins (Alan) two sons John Higgins (Lisa) and Paul Higgins. A brother Raymond Cullion (Mary). Grandchildren Ivy, Crystal, Heidi, Victoria, Brittany, and Ali. Great grandchildren Talan, Raine, Noah, Jonah, Taylor, Bianka, Keelan, Nevan, Violet, Frankie, Leona. She was predeceased by a daughter Jacqueline, grandson Dylan, sister Romaine Hughes and brothers James, Desmond, Junior, andArrangementsGerald. in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown PA. . ContinueD on next
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In addition to his wife, he is survived by Daughters; Lynn M. Saborsky (Richard), Mona A. Bryan (Daniel Burke), six Grandchildren Jennifer L. (Bryan), Derek N. (Nikki), Matthew J. (Andee), Brooke A. (Scott), Kacey B. (Daulton), and Shanna E. (Nick); nine Great Grandchildren Riley, Audrey, Collin, Mya, Pierce, Mackenzie, Nathan, Kylie andHeRyker.waspredeceased by a sister Marilyn. Services will be private at the convenience of the ArrangementsFamily. are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown. Brian l. heilMan, 68 of Hereford formerly of Quakertown died Friday August 5, 2022, at Lehigh Valley Hospital –Cedar Crest. He was the companion of Penny Fetterman. Born in Sellersville he was the son of the late Elmer U. and Helen M. (Miller) Heilman. After thirty plus years of service in various positions he retired as Branch Manager of QNB Pennsburg location. He was a member of the Upper Perk Chamber and a board member of Open Link. Brian was also a long-time member of the Quakertown Lions Club. He coached many youth sports programs such as softball, baseball, football, and powder puff football. He was a former member of the Quakertown United Methodist Church where he served as an usher and played on the church softball team. In addition to his companion, he is survived by his children Dana E. Squillace (Joseph) of Philadelphia, Kasey L. Heilman (Mark) of Emmaus and Scott B. Heilman of Hereford. Two sisters Jean E. Werst of Quakertown and Nancy H. Jones (George) of Valparaiso IN. Two grandchildren Franco and Enzo. He is also survived by his companions’ children and grandchildren Sandy Fetterman (Greg Cimino) Stacey Fetterman, Sheryl Kulp (Jason) and Shannon Fetterman grandchildren Jacob, Lillian, Connor, Colton, and Carter. And his former spouse and mother of his children Karen Heilman. In lieu of flowers memorial contribution can be made to the Quakertown Lions Club, P.O. Box 1021, Quakertown PA 18951. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Mark lee heuCkeroth, age 68, of Quakertown, passed away on August 23, 2022 with his wife by his side. He was the loving husband of Debra (Althouse) Heuckeroth with whom they would have shared 48 years of marriage in October.Bornin Quakertown, he was the son of Mary (Barndt) Heuckeroth and the late Robert Heuckeroth.Surviving along with his wife Debbie is daughter, Jaime Squiccimara and her husband Kris; his grandchildren, Kristoffer and Logan; his sister Karen Weaver and her husband Paul; and his nephew, Ben Weaver. He was predeceased by his son, JasonYouHeuckeroth.areinvited to visit with Mark’s family and friends at Naugle Funeral Home on Thursday, September 8, 2022 from 6-7 PM and a Celebration of Life will be held at 7 PM.
howarD w. FulMer, Jr., 86, of Quakertown, passed away Friday, August 5, 2022 at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Bethlehem, PA. Born in Quakertown in 1936, he was the son of the late Howard and Arlene (Heller)HowardFulmer.honorably served his country in the United States Army, where he served as an Assistant Chaplain as part of his duty. After his service, Howard worked as a warehouse attendant for Delbar Telford & Perkasie for over 30 years before his retirement. In his spare time, Howard proudly sang with the Sunshine Singers. He also enjoyed watching old Westerns and searching for the best bargains while grocery shopping. Howard is survived by his daughter, Michele Weller (Alan), siblings Terry Fulmer, Jerry Fulmer, Perry Fulmer, and Sandy Hufnagle, grandchildren Holly Dietrick (Matthew) and Shane Weller (Sarah), great-grandchildren Luke and Emma. He was predeceased by his brothers Ronald andADonald.burialwill be held privately at a later date. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
riCharD l haring, 89, of Quakertown passed away August 22, 2022 at St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus, Quakertown. He was the husband of Margaret (Stauffer) Haring. They were married for 67 years in BornMay. in Philadelphia he was the son of the late William F. and Verna S. (Texter) Haring. He was a graduate of Quakertown High School, Class of 1950. He was a Corporal in the U.S. Army serving in Germany as a surveyor from 1953 to 1955. He was the owner of Tropic Ardens, Inc. Flower Shop in Quakertown. Early in his career he grew chrysanthemums for the Army Navy game with one box marked for President Richard M. Nixon. He was a past member of the Clover Leaf Archery Club and enjoyed hunting. His greatest joy was spending time with family and asking “Are you coming swimming?” and watching and feeding the bluebirds and hummingbirds in his back yard.
Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. Quakertown. henry williaM longaCre, age 80, of Telford, PA, peacefully passed away surrounded by his family on August 7, 2022, in Ocean City, NJ. He was the spouse of Carol L. (Swartley) Longacre with whom he shared almost 60 years of marriage. Born in Quakertown, PA, he was the son of Horace W. Longacre and Elizabeth M. (Goshow) Longacre. Henry graduated from Christopher Dock Mennonite High School. He was employed and a partner in the family business, Longacre’s Poultry. As a lifelong member of Swamp Mennonite Church, he served in many capacities throughout the years. He was also passionate about Spruce Lake Retreat and Mennonite Education, serving on the board at Christopher Dock Mennonite High School for over 20 years. He was a philanthropist who supported many organizations and individuals in the community. Also, having an entrepreneurial spirit, he was involved in starting up several businesses including Bakers Best and First Service Bank. Henry received joy in buying and selling, starting by going to farmer’s markets as a boy and continuing through his whole life, even in retirement, having a table at Rice’s Market where he loved interacting with people. Most importantly he was a man who lived his life to honor God, devoted to his family and community. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sons, H. William (Catharine) of Quakertown, G. Robert (Lorena) of Telford, and Cory L. (Linda) of Telford, grandchildren, Isaac, Elizabeth, Lydia, and Benjamin, Micah (Shauna), Levi, Kristen, and Nicole, and Olyvia (Amanda), Davry, and Zeke. Memorial Contributions may be made to Swamp Mennonite Church or Spruce Lake Retreat. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). kathy ManDiC, 53, of Quakertown died August 5, 2022 in St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus.Shewas the wife of Michael J. Mandic, Jr. They were married 34 years on July 29, 2022. Born in Middlesex, New Jersey she was the daughter of Don & Patricia (Szoke) Rakebrand. Kathy enjoyed the shore, trains, nature and survival shows and watching the Golden Girls. Her greatest joy in life was her children and grandchildren.Inadditionto her husband and parents she is survived by her two children Joshua Michael Mandic (Lori-Anne) and Felicia Lee Mandic (Dennis Dempsy). Two brothers Don & Eric and 4 sisters Lori, Lisa, Karen, & Heidi; two grandchildren Marley Lelani Mandic and Everett Joshua Mandic. She is also survived by her mother-in-law Patricia Whitehead (Andrew) and father-in-law Michael Mandic, Sr. (Mary); and her two dogs Mila and Honey. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. ruth ann MarBle, 83 of Coopersburg died Friday August 5, 2022, in Belle Terrace, Quakertown. She was the wife of Merle E. Marble. They would have celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary on August 29th. Born in Abington she was the daughter of the late Franklin P. and Ruth (Thomas) Luff. Ruth loved to cook and bake and owned an abundance of cookbooks which she enjoyed looking through to see what she could create in the kitchen next. She also enjoyed collecting antiques and traveling. In addition to her husband Merle she is survived by her children Tamra Plessl (Alex) and Albert E. Kohler (Pixie). A daughter in law Diana Kohler. Two grandchildren Jonathan Kohler and Kevin M. Kohler (Liz), two great grandchildren Seth and Eli. A brother Franklyn H. Luff (Joyce E.) She was predeceased by a son Kevin Kohler. A celebration of life will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown, PA. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to WJCS 89.3FM, (www.wjcs. com) or mail to P.O. Box 8900 Allentown, PA 18105-8900. Contributions can also be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, (stjude.org) DaviD willarD Myers passed bravely into God’s care on August 4, 2022 after an unsuspected swift encounter with a vicious cancer. He was 65 years old. He was born on March 4, 1957 in Doylestown, the firstborn son of the late Henry Willard and Martha Ann Myers of Warrington. He graduated from Central Bucks West High School and then attended and graduated from Bucks County Community College magna cum laude with an AD in the Administration of Criminal Justice. Then he attended and graduated from DeSales University in Center Valley magna cum laude with a BA in the Administration of Criminal Justice. He worked for 30 years at the Bucks County Courthouse up to Lieutenant of Security. He was also an EMT and EMT instructor and worked for the American Heart Association, receiving an award for saving a man with a defibrillator. He was a member of the First United Church of Christ Church in Quakertown. He was a member of the Paletown Gun Club, the Guthsville Gun Club, and had recently joined the SASS Western style shooting club. He was a member of the FOP. He was involved with the Windward Sailing Club and loved to sail his boat on Lake Nockamixon and he became VP of the Friends of Nockamixon Board. He loved to read and swim and was once a lifeguard in Warrington. He was both a foster and an adoptive parent and is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Denise; children Travis Carl, Peter Henry Benjamin, and Crystal Heidi Deanne Myers; granddog Knoli; grandchildren Olivia Rose Eisenhauer, Cody Alexander Myers, and Brittany Hope Berger; brothers Jamie (Lori) and Jeff; nieces; nephews; and many other loving family and friends. David is predeceased by son Cody David Alexander Myers, who was adopted from Russia and died accidentally at home.
roBert J. rush, 59, of Quakertown died June 23, 2022. Born in Quakertown he was the son of Carolyn M. (Warnke) Rush of Quakertown and the late Kermit A. Rush. He was a self-employed carpenter. In addition to his mother, he is survived by three sisters Donna Rush, Susan Burrows, Karen Parke, a brother Paul Rush. Predeceased by his brother David Rush. Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the family.
at humanesociety.org, or the Friends of Nockamixon at 1642 Mountain View Dr., Quakertown, PA 18951-5732. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
September 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 7 ~Obituaries~
eDwarD luPton Parish Jr , 78, of Quakertown, passed away on August 27, 2022. He was born in Lansdale, PA on June 15, 1944 to the late Edward L. Parish Sr. and Jean Marie (Potter) Parish. Edward was the loving husband of Pamela Jean (Edwards) Parish for over 50 years. He honorably served in the U.S. Navy for 6 years during the Vietnam War. Edward loved the beach, sports, baseball in particular, and spending time with his grandchildren. He worked for R.R. Donnelley as the manager of a commercial print center for 35 years. Edward is survived by his wife; son Michael Parish (Trayci); stepson Scott Murray (Brenda); grandchildren Logan, Ella, Justin, and Morgan; and many other loving family and friends. Interment will be at Hatfield Cemetery. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
Christine sallo, age 55, of Quakertown PA, passed away Monday, August 22, 2022 at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA. She was the wife of John Sallo, with whom she shared many years of marriage. She was born in Staten Island, NY, daughter of the late Charles Barnickel and the late Joanne Fitzpatrick (Giaccio). She was a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church. She enjoyed spending time with loved ones, shopping, and traveling. She will be remembered for being the best mother in the world, most caring wife, and most thoughtful friend. In addition to her husband John, Christine is survived by her children, DJ and Hannah. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
hans Peter sChMiDt, age 78, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, passed away on August 20, 2022 at Lehigh Valley Health Network - Cedar Crest in Allentown, PA.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. Isidore Catholic Church, 2545 W. Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown PA 18951 in the form of mass cards. JosePh John kelly, age 71, of Coopersburg, PA., formerly of Fountain Hill, passed away on August 22, 2022, at his residence. He was the loving husband of Vina Jane (Fletcher) Kelly with whom he shared over 12 years of marriage. Born on April 8, 1951 in Collingswood, NJ, he was a son of the late John and the late Laura (Armstrong) Kelly. Prior to retirement, he worked at the Cathedral Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania as a church sexton for 15 years; he previously worked as a foreman at the Eco Aluminum Factory in New Jersey, where he made some lifelong friends. He was a member of the Republican Club of Fountain Hill and the Fearless Fire Company of Allentown, where he enjoyed many mornings socializing with his friends over a cold beer and good television. Joe loved life and lived to the fullest. He loved gardening, animals (his own and yours), practical jokes, trying new recipes, the Arizona Cardinals, Miller Lite, scrapple, his grandchildren, and a good argument – he took pride in how many times (and for how long) he landed in Facebook jail. He celebrated each holiday to the hilt, sporting a green mohawk on St. Patrick’s Day, planning elaborate Easter and Thanksgiving dinners, and writing out Christmas cards in September. He was stubborn with an Irish temper but was quick to move on, and his generosity towards his family and friends was beyond compare. He loved his wife, Jane, with all his heart and would do anything for her. Surviving along with his wife, Jane, are his children, Joseph J. Kelly, Jr. and his wife Stephanie, Patrick Kelly, and Kevin Kelly; stepdaughter, Kristen Jellison and her husband Darin; his grandchildren, Tyler Kelly, Alexa Kelly, Madison Kelly, Mason Kelly, Aiden Kelly, Jade Kelly and Cierra Kelly; his step grandchildren, Noah Jellison and Kate Jellison; and his sister, Laura Cox. He was predeceased by his brother, John Kelly. At Joe’s request, no formal services are planned.Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Animals In Distress, 5075 Limeport Pike, Coopersburg, PA 18036. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). russell h. kraMer, Jr., 67, of Quakertown died August 23, 2022 in his home. He was the husband of Shirley A. (Wolfe) Kramer. They were married 47 years. Born in Sellersville, PA he was the son of the late Russell H., Sr. & Catherine (Weaver) Kramer.Hewas last employed as a truck driver for Landis Block & Concrete. Russell enjoyed the outdoors. He was a U.S. Marine Veteran serving during the Vietnam War. In addition to his wife he is survived by a daughter Heather M. Ritton (Dennis) and a son
Hans and Elena spent the last 30 years after retiring running an antique business, traveling all over the place to find unique collectibles. He was well known for his Zippos. He is survived by Elena Schmidt (wife), his four sons, stepchildren and spouses: David, Eric, Christopher, and Timothy and Jiraporn Schmidt, Russell and Liz Dunlevy, Richard and Suzanne Dunlevy, Karen and Joe Miller, four siblings: Heidi Schmidt, Gary Gnirss, Rose-Marie Parr, Leilani Price and thirteen beloved grandchildren.
Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601 MiChael J. tulish, 68, of Telford, passed away at his residence Wednesday, July 27, 2022. Originally from Conshohocken, he was the son of the late Joseph and Rose (Dayoc) Tulish. He was the loving husband of Deborah (Martin) Tulish for 38 years. Michael was a member of the Local #542 International Union of Operating Engineers for over 45 years. He worked primarily for Penn Jersey Machinery. Michael was an extremely hard worker and loved providing for his family. He especially loved spending time with his 8 grandchildren. In addition to Deborah, his wife of 38 years, Michael is survived by his sons, Michael Tulish (Megan), Jeffrey Tulish (Kelly), Jason Tulish, Kevin Tulish, and Brian Tulish, grandchildren, Alazaya, Zoe, Riley, Carter, Emily, Audrey, Julian, and Rowan, siblings Alan Tulish and JoAnn Losew. He was predeceased by his sister, Carolyn Shirk. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 3810 Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
Donations in Hans’ memory can be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation at https:// t2t.org/donate/ or 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
1-866-STLUKESsluhn.org/womens(785-8537)
ryan MiChael williaMs, age 46, of Quakertown, passed away on August 2, 2022, at his residence. He was the husband of Jessica (Harley) Williams. Born in Philadelphia, he is the son of David and Gail (Nahm) Williams. He graduated from Father Judge in 1993 and earned his Associate’s Degree from Lincoln Tech for computers. Ryan proudly served in the United States Air Force.Headored his family and loved spending time with his two kids. You could always find Ryan watching the Philadelphia Eagles, he was a devoted fan. He also enjoyed watching movies and playing computer games. He loved all kinds of Survivingmusic.along with his parents and wife, he is survived by their two children Nathaniel and Abby, brother Jason, wife Whitney, niece and nephew, Harper and Angus, aunts and dozens of Memorialcousins.contributions may be made in his memory to Wounded Warrior Project https:// support.woundedwarriorproject.org
Our OB/GYN team provides quality care for your routine and complex GYN needs and the best care for every step of your pregnancy journey.
MaDeline arlene sChulBerger, 91, of Quakertown, went to be with her sweetheart on Sunday, July 31, 2022. Born October 24, 1930, she was the daughter of the late Enos and Anna (Headman) Stump. She was the wife of the late Julius Schulberger, with whom she shared 71 years of marriage before his death in 2019. Madeline is survived by her children, Robert (Mary), Kevin (Sheila), Lee (Susan), Michele (Kevin), Linda (Donald). She was predeceased by a son, Ronald (Sally). Also surviving are her siblings Erma Klinger, Richard Stump (Ruth Ann), Franklin Stump (Diane), 11 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by 3 brothers and 2 sisters. Madeline worked aside her husband building the family business, Schulberger’s Inc. In her spare time, she enjoyed cooking, baking, camping, arts and crafts, bowling, shuffle alley, and had a secret talent for oil painting. Above all, she took great pride in being a loving wife, mother, and grandmother to her entire family.
When you deliver at St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus, you’ll experience care from your St. Luke’s OB/GYN in a comforting labor and delivery unit with private rooms. You Expect. We Deliver. St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Women & Babies Pavilion Coming 2023!
Born in Karlsruhe, Germany he was the son of Eugene Schmidt and Hilde Hammer Schmidt.Hansis a graduate of the Santa Barbara High School Class of 1962. Hans proudly served our country in the United States Navy for 30 years. He enlisted and served as an electrician’s mate and then trained to be a Corpsman. HMCM (SW) ret. Hans Schmidt, fondly known as “Doc Schmidt”, served in the United States Navy from 1962 through 1992, including service in the Vietnam War. He spent a year at Palmer Station, Antarctica. He served on many Ships and in Naval Hospitals. He spoke fondly of his days at the Subic Bay, Philippines Naval Hospital. He served as Command Master Chief and head of manpower management, retiring from the US Naval Hospital Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Trust is the foundation of all relationships. When it comes to OB/GYN care, trust is essential.
Our Maternal Fetal Medicine physicians deliver advanced care during pregnancy with a special focus on high-risk pregnancies.
8 • Upper Bucks Free Press • September 2022 ~Obituaries~ SCHMIDT, ConTInueD froM page 7
Have something to share with your community? info@ubfp.org • UBFP, 582 S. West End Blvd, Quakertown, PA 18951
Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
At St. Luke’s Obstetrics & Gynecology, you’ll find a doctor who gets to know you, listens to you and understands your needs! You can trust St. Luke’s OB/GYN’s to deliver the personalized and compassionate care you expect and deserve.
September 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 9
BY MICHELE BUONO
photo by michele buono
How Chloe Spent Her Summer Vacation
It’s been a busy pre-kindergarten summer for five-year-old Chloe Arnold. She and her Nana, Dori Arnold, have been painting rocks to raise money to help local pet rescues. For a small donation, you can brighten up your garden with one of Chloe’s creations and donate to a great cause. The rocks feature colorful art and positive sayings such as “whatever you are, be a good one” and “prove them wrong”. The rocks with little houses are Chloe’s personal favorites. She was very excited when someone found one of her painted rocks that was hidden at the Delaware seashore and posted it. Shelley Arnold, Chloe’s mom, is proud of her daughter to want to use her creativity to help others. She added that come October, they have decided to donate Chloe’s Rock Project money to a family friend going through a battle with breast cancer. The stone masterpieces can be found in two Quakertown locations, Preferred Nutrition at 213 West Broad Street, and Shelley Arnold’s salon, To Dye For, at 326 West Broad Street. Look for Chloe’s Rock Project to soon be a Facebook page.
Quakertown Community Day committee chairperson Doug Wilhelm and co-chair Kate Wilhelm present a $30,000 check to Quakertown Borough Council to sponsor a new pavilion to be built in the Park at 4th. The pavilion will be named in honor of Ken Williams. Quakertown Community Day is a self-sustaining organization and is funded through the generosity of sponsors, donations at the event, and other fundraising efforts.
10 • Upper Bucks Free Press • September 2022 The answers to the puzzles on this page are found elsewhere in this issue. Think Local. Play Local. Be Local. ColobusDalmatianCookieMonkeyDiceDominoes Eight Ball HoneyMagpiesBadgerOrcaPanda RuffedPianoPenguinKeysLemurSkunkSnoopy SoccerYinTapirBallYangZebra Have something to share with your community? Send it to us! UBFP • 582 S. West End Blvd, Ste 2 • Quakertown, PA 18951 info@ubfp.org • fb.com/ubfreepress • www.ubfp.org
From afar, a climax forest always seems to look the same, though it’s a constantly evolving system. As in all ecosystems, specific species come and go. But, there are several elms in my yard again, immune to Dutch elm disease I guess--or just not sick yet. Perhaps it will be the same with the ash. Or, perhaps they will mutate, like the beech did, or they might nearly vanish like the chestnut and black oak.
“You can teach a student a lesson for a day; but if you can teach him to learn by creating curiosity, he will continue the learning process as long as he lives.” - Clay P. Bedford
In Lewis Carol’s “Through the Looking Glass,” when the Red Queen explained the nature of her world to Alice she said: “Now, here, you see, it takes all the running you can do to keep in the same place.” Here is Earth and ash trees had best run faster. As they evolve to adapt to the ash borer’s assault, so will the borer adapt to those changes. Each species will frantically run and run but it will only delay their inevitable extinction.
Please, Don’t Bore My Ash!
Over ninety-nine percent of all species— plant, animal, insect and microbe--that have existed on this planet are now extinct. It’s less than 200 years since we ‘discovered’ evolution and we still don’t fully understand or appreciate it. All life must constantly evolve to survive and the Red Queen Hypothesis remains a valid “explanatory tangent”.
By the time I graduated high school (QCHS class of 1970), they all were gone. That patch of woods at the Neidig looked about the same as it does today—half the trees dead. I actually witnessed one large, dead elm snap off at its base and crashing down while I was playing basketball at the school one windy day. Bark beetles, which permit a ‘penetration’ by fungus, were the culprits. The affliction was recognized as imported from the Netherlands in 1928, but the elm disease has been around for a long time. Peat sample analysis shows there was a massive elm die-off around 4,000 BCE and another in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.Beechare the smooth light gray-barked trees that were popular for carving initials into. Very few large beech trees can still be found. Again, the combination of the beech scale insect and a neonectria fungus have devastated and changed the nature of the species. After a few years infected, the maturing trees start to die. Instead of producing large trees, root shoots create the thick patches of beech brush that’s becoming common in northern forests and infuriates hunters by being nearly impassable and obscuring vision by holding onto leaves intoInwinter.thelate 20th century gypsy moths swarmed across PA. Imported from Europe in the 1860’s to cross breed with native silk producing caterpillars, they escaped into the ecosystem. Over a hundred years later they still defoliate over a million acres of hardwoods yearly. Property I owned in Haycock Township was aerially sprayed as part of a community effort to save trees, but I lost hundreds of black oaks. The gypsy moths are still here and are still spreading south and west.
You are invited to a One Year Anniversary celebration! Christina Harmonsky is celebrating her first year in her brick and mortar bakery on September 11 beginning at 11 AM. And while she has been at this location for just a year, Christine’s baking business has been well-known in the area for 14 years . Christine’s artistic and tasty creations have been widely recommended on social media when someone is looking for a special occasion cake, cupcakes, or cookies. Educated at the prestigious Moore College of Art and with a keen eye for detail, Christine’s confectionary creations are local favorites. If someone has an idea for a cake or dessert for an event or party, Christine will work hard to make it happen. “I don’t say no too much,” she laughs. As her impressive cake-decorating skills are largely self-taught, she is willing to work with her clients and make their confectionary dreams comeHertrue.baking history includes building a cooking program at the local YMCA. When the COVID lockdowns struck, Christine Christine knew the space at 582 S. West End Blvd. would be “perfect” for her business. When you open the door to the bakery, the aroma of fresh baked goods is an instant moodlifter. The space is full of not just delicious cupcakes, brownies, and cookies but also beautiful crafts from local vendors. “I’ve always wanted to feature local vendors because I want to give back.” Jewelry, home décor items, tumblers, and seasonal decorations are artfully displayed throughout the front area of the bakery.
BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ. Imagine the following scenario: Your father, who was your only remaining parent, has just passed away. In his Will, he named his youngest brother as Executor. His Will states that you are the sole heir to his estate. After the Will was probated, you tried to reach out to your Uncle, but he will not return your calls. He has also changed the locks on your father’s house and your father’s car is missing from the driveway. You have no idea what kind of assets/debts your father left behind, but you know his house was owned free and clear, and he did not require end of lifeUnfortunately,care. situations like this are all too common. In Pennsylvania, Executors are given a great deal of authority in administering estates. They have the ability to act largely without court supervision and they are not required to share specific information about the estate with beneficiaries. This system is designed to keep estate administration costs low, and when the Executor is trustworthy and honest, the system works well. Most Executors will keep the beneficiaries informed and update them periodically throughout the administration process. However, if you are in a situation in which you believe the Executor to be untrustworthy, you need to be proactive in order to protect your inheritance. The first step would be to hire a competent probate attorney who will formally request the desired information from the Executor. In that initial request, your attorney will state that if the information is not received, a Petition for Accounting will be filed on your behalf. Once the Petition is filed, the court will give the Executor some time to gather the necessary information before forcing the accounting. In many instances, simply receiving a letter from an estate attorney will be enough to deter the Executor from engaging in any wrong-doing. In other situations where you believe that the Executor is intentionally delaying the administration of the estate and purposefully diminishing estate assets, you (or your attorney for that matter) should file a Petition to Have the Executor Removed. An Executor has a fiduciary duty to administer the estate in the best interest of the estate beneficiaries (normally these are the heirs named in the Will). If the Executor is not acting in their best interest – (for example, if the Executor fails to sell the decedent’s house in a reasonable amount of time after their death and lets it go into disrepair, the Executor’s failure to act has reduced the value of the real estate and reduced the inheritance of those named in the Will) –then he/she should be removed and could also be held personally responsible for the financial loss. Additionally, in this situation, if the Executor has filed an accounting with the court, you may want to file objections to the Executor’s accounting and seek a surcharge against the Executor for the improper administration. If you find yourself in a similar situation, do yourself a favor and sit down with an experienced estate attorney. Do not be fooled into thinking you have no power or rights in these situations, you just need an attorney who understands those powers and rights.. robert e. Fravel, esQ is a bucks county attorney locateD at 123 n main street, suite 101b, in Dublin, Pennsylvania. He sPecializes in estate Planning & aDministration Family law anD business law to set uP a consultation call His oFFice at (267) 227-9138 or visit His website at www Fravel law com
Jack scHick is a long time Quakertown area resiDent anD regular contributor Here at ubFP. reacH Him at sJckscHc@aol com
September 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 11
C & C Confections Celebrates First Year at Bakery and Gift Shoppe
How to Deal with a Shady Executor
Recently, in the patch of woods along the Licking Run on the Neidig Elementary School property, contractors felled, cut up and hauled off a half a dozen dead white ash trees. In part of that woods--next to the school’s ‘nature area’ and closer to Erie Road than to North Penrose Street--there are still at least a dozen large, dead trees. I suppose they first cut down the ones that were most likely to fall onto areas here the kids play, or, just worked till the money ran out. [School taxes are due, now]. Also, this year the borough put forth a lot of effort removing dead ash trees from Memorial Park and, in our neighborhood, along the footpath people take to cross the creek at the Penrose Street footbridge. Last year, I had several large, dead ash trees removed from my own yard (at an exorbitant cost); and, currently on the neighbor’s property across the creek, there are several standing dead ash trees that I expect to topple in a strong wind and take out my electric wires. It’s not just here. Across the region ash trees have died in the millions. The ’great dying’ is mostly the result of an infestation of an invasive species, the Emerald Ash Borer, which is a type of jewel beetle. Native to northeastern Asia, Agrilus planipennis was first discovered in Michigan in the late 1980’s. So far, it’s killed tens of millions of the estimated 8.7 billion ash trees in eastern American forests and is still spreading. The beetle bores into the tree and eats the inner bark, which transports water and nutrients throughout the tree. Tearing off a sheet of bark from one of my own dead trees I saw a pattern of ‘chew’ paths that looked like a road map of Potter County. Eventually so much tissue is destroyed that the tree dies. Though devastating for our forests, this if far from the first, or even the worst, ‘blight’ to affect Penn’s Woods. Perhaps the most serious and economically devastating mass dying in American forests was the Chestnut Blight that began a little over a 100 years ago. It was caused by a fungus. C. parasitica is also native to east and southeast Asia. Between its discovery in North America in 1904 and 1940, the blight killed an estimated four billion chestnut trees in the eastern U.S., including nearly all of them in the southern Appalachians where 25% of the forests were chestnuts. A straight grained, easy to work and rot resistant wood, its loss devasted the lumber industry and dependent economies. The blight also affected oaks, shag-bark hickories and other native trees, though to a lesser degree. As an outdoorsman, hunter and one-time amateur dendrologist for the Boy Scouts, I can’t remember ever seeing a “spreading chestnut tree”. Several other tree-plagues that I’ve personally witnessed include the Dutch elm disease, beech bark disease and the invasion of gypsy moths. When I was a kid, we had over a dozen large elms on ours and the adjacent lot.
9:00am Worship, 10:15 Sunday School, Handicapped accessible, Family Friendly Church. Find us on Facebook! Church of the Incarnation 44 S. 8th Quakertown,StreetPA 18951
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 www.stpaulsucc.netstacey@stpaulsucc.netPastor:215-257-7268Sellersville,StreetPA18960Rev.TrudyIrving Sunday Worship 10:15 in Sanctuary Springfield Mennonite Church 1905 Pleasant View Road Coopersburg PA 18036 267-999-1404 Pastor: Joseph www.springfieldmennonite.orgpastorjoe@springfieldmennonite.orgWames
Brown II Sunday schedule: Worship 8:30 am, Sunday School 9:45 am, Worship 11 am Communion first Sunday of each month. Richland Friends Meeting (Quaker) Main St at Mill Rd & Park Ave Quakertown, PA 18951 www.RichlandQuakers.orgFriends@RichlandQuakers.org215-538-7555
Pastor:www.biblebaptistcares.org484-523-3333TomHarris
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 JoinAssociateCo-Pastors:Facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertownDouglas&JoyceDonigianPastor:JonBaumanusinpersonSundays9:15amJoin
Pennridge Christian Fellowship 720 Blooming Glen Rd, Blooming Glen 18911 www.pennridgecf.orgpastor@pennridgecf.org215-257-7309
Jr. An alternative to the ultra-contemporary Sun day Worship and Children’s Church 10:30 am, Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm, World Evan gelism Fellowship affiliate. Grace Bible Fellowship Church 1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N. Quakertown, PA 18951 SundaySr.www.quakertownbfc.orggrace@quakertownbfc.org215-536-6096Pastor:RonKohlSchoolforallages.
12 • Upper Bucks Free Press 2022
BY PASTOR JON BAUMAN
Outdoor Worship Service, 9:30 a.m. Sundays in tree-lined grove across from the church, weather permitting (inside if not), June 19Sept. 4. Bring lawn chairs; Live-streamed on Facebook; video available on website.
St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley 910 Allentown Road, West Rockhill Twp www.stjohnsridgevalley.comstjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com215-257-9643
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 www.stjohnsottsville.orgpastor@stjohnsottsville.org610-847-5521
10:10am Morn ing 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 meet ing 6:45pm Juniper Street Bible Church 317 Juniper Sundaywww.juniperstreetbiblechurch.orgPastor:267-373-9115Quakertown,StreetPA18951BobStevensonworship10am(alsowatch
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 Pastor:www.stpaulsqtown.orgstpaulsqtown@gmail.com215-536-5789Rev.DavidHeckler
live on our Facebook page), Tuesday 7pm Bible study and prayer. We offer an invitation to you. Come and worship with us. Morning Star Fellowship 429 S. 9th Quakertown,StreetPA 18951 Pastors:215-529-6422John & Theresa Decker Sundaywww.mstarqtown.orgServicesat9am and 11 am. Our cafe is open with free coffee. Children’s Ministries provided. Celebrate Recovery on Tuesdays at 7 pm. Student Ministries on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. Weekly Connections. For updates and schedule changes, check our website. Palisades Community Bible Church 8730 Easton Road Revere, PA Pastor:www.pcbchurch.comsecretary@pcbchurch.com610-847-263718953Rev.CorbinSeltzer, Jr. Sunday School (all ages) 9:30am, Sunday Morning Worship 10:30am, Tuesday Prayer Meeting 7:00pm, Men & Ladies’ Bible Studies - see website. “Walk by Faith.” II Cor. 5:7
As summer comes to a close, vacations tend to lessen until the week of Christmas. School schedules will cause spikes in errands to do, things to order, and times in the car. But we can’t wait several months to rest, even if we take Labor Day off. We have to remember the Sabbath, and to keep it Holy, because it is when we rest that we realize just how active God has always been.
Bible Baptist Church Meets at HIghland Park Dining Hall 415 Highland Park Road Sellersville, PA 18960
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) Pastor:www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.orgstjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com215-536-0734TheRev.AxelKaegler
Good News Church 424 Juniper Pastor:215-536-4393Quakertown,StreetPA18951DavidMarkey,
Change fear into hope, doubt into faith. God is calling. Join us at 11am Sunday. Halleleujah! Christ’s Lutheran Church 1 Luther Lane Trumbauersville, PA 18970 www.christslutheran.comchristselca@verizon.net215-536-3193
Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship
Pastor:www.stjohnsrpa.orgAdmin@stjohnsrpa.org215-536-5027RevDr.David
us on line at www.firstUCC.net. Community Lunch 2nd Saturday Drive through pickup 9am. Com munity Dinner 3rd Thursday 5:30pm (eat in).
“Learning to rest is a skill. It is also an act of faith rooted in the belief that God is at work when you are not.” - rev. Dr esau MCCaulley Being productive feels good, and when you are busy, you feel productive; so many people, including myself, elevate the importance of being busy. But what if our need to be busy is counterproductive to our growth as believers in God? What if our system of assigning value to our days is warped by other people’s expectations of our level of production, rather than whether a day is nourishing to our own life?
Pastor: Thomas Vargis Multicultural Charismatic church worshipping God in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Our ser vice 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 Pastor:www.qumc.combarb@qumc.com215-536-4992Quakertown,RoadPA18951Rev.RichardK.
Jon bauman is a Pastor at First uniteD cHurcH oF cHrist in Quakertown. He can be reacHeD at Jbauman@Firstucc net
I have to learn that rest is both a skill, and an act of faith. When we learn to rest, we are rewiring our brains to acknowledge that some things can wait until later. When we learn to rest, we are reorienting our life to be more about our quality of life, and less about our performance in the workforce, or the perfection of our lawn, or house cleaning. When we force ourselves to rest, we are surrendering to God the things that we cannot control for the purpose of observing how God is going to meet us in our rest and to show us that God is always at work around us to make what is not good, good. So while it’s hard for me to silence some notifications, to step away from my task sheet, to read a book, to spend hours with the bible, in prayer, or in meditative reflection on the beauty of God...if I refuse to see this time that God wants me to have as necessary, then I live as though I doubt that God is powerful enough to handle things while I’m away, taking a nap, or gone fishing.
Emmanuel Episcopal Church 560 S. Main Street Quakertown, PA 18951 www.emmanuelquakertown.orgemmanuelchurch11@yahoo.com215-536-3040
• September
The book of Genesis starts with a story about God creating all that exists and resting on the 7th day as God proclaimed that what had been created was good. Throughout the years, the followers of God have sought to keep this seventh day as a time to rest and to reflect on the blessings of God. Although, with the exception of having church services on a Sunday, many of us are only reminded that it is supposed to be a day of rest when we crave something from Chik-Fil-A and then realize that it is closed. I struggle to rest because the idea of resting, to remove myself from what I feel like I have to do for a period of time, causes me to be restless. The wonders of modern technology allow me to send emails, write sermons, communicate with staff, and review the monthly financial reports from the comfort of my home, on an iPad, or even a cell phone... so why not do a little work right now? It’ll only take a minute. When I go on vacation, I have to deactivate email notifications on my phone, and sometimes remove the app from my phone for that week, just to avoid the temptation to work when I am supposed to be resting. Certainly, there are times when I need to work; emergencies come up, and you have to handle them if no one else is able to, but not many people in my age bracket are good at stopping our work since we have the ability to work on the go with mobile devices, and have been doing so for a large chunk of our career. Still, I have to force myself to rest on my vacation, and even during my regular week.
Non-Denominational guided meditations Wed, 7pm Sunday worship 10:30am “Absolute freedom of thought and worship is our faith and practice.” St. Isidore Roman Catholic Church 2545 West Pumping Station Rd Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) Pastor:536-4389Rev.Kenneth C. Brabazon Sundaywww.stisidores.orgizzyparoff@comcast.netMasses-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
Join us at 10:15a Sunday Mornings for a Blended Worship Service, Multi-genera tional, loving congregation. Biblically and Doctrinally Sound. Trinity Lutheran Church 102 N. Hellertown Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 9Pastor:www.trinityquakertown.org536.4345DayleMalloya.m.Traditionalservice, 11 a.m. Contem porary Service, 10: 15 a.m. Sunday School, Handicap accessible, Family Friendly, Dynamic Music Ministry, Living God’s Love for All
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 APastor:www.christchurchisalive.orgchristchurch10@verizon.net215-538-0142DavidHecklerfriendly,welcomingchurch.
SundayTraditionalPastor:www.IncarnationQuakertown.orgArdores@verizon.net215-538-3787MostRev.ThomasJ.Kleppingerworship,Biblicalfaith10:30am,HolyDaysasannounced.
BY RAY FOX
the greatest accomplishments a person can achieve is the respect of the people who work for them. Many of those who have worked under the direction of Dennis have stated that he is a great person to work for. He treats everyone with respect and appreciation. He is a motivator who sets an example by the personal pride he takes in his own work. The Quakertown Community Alumni Association encourages alumni to participate in the Association activities. Its mission includes fundraising to provide for scholarship opportunities each year for graduating seniors. Please check out our Facebook Pages “Quakertown High School Alumni Association” and the Alumni pages of the
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, LLC, is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SECregistered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2022 FMG Suite. Securities and Advisory Services offered through Prospera Financial Services. Member FINRA/SIPC.
Your Shifting Risk Tolerance
the community as a volunteer having helped coach Little League Baseball, Richland Area Softball, and Quakertown Midget Football.
September 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 13
Goals. They come in all shapes and sizes, and some are long-term while others have a shorter time horizon. Knowing your investing goals can help you keep on target. Risk tolerance. An investor with higher risk tolerance may be more willing to accept greater market volatility in the pursuit of potential returns. An investor with a lower risk tolerance may be willing to forgo some potential return in favor of investments that attempt to limit price swings. Have your investing priorities changed? If so, this is all the more reason to review and possibly adjust the investment mix in your portfolio. Asset allocation is a critical building block of investment portfolio creation. Having a strong knowledge of the concept may help you when considering which investments are appropriate for your long-term strategy. 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
It’s important to remember that asset allocation is an approach to help manage investment risk. Asset allocation does not guarantee against investment loss. Determining an appropriate mix. The most appropriate asset allocation will depend on an individual’s situation. Here are the three broad factors to consider. Time. Investors with longer timeframes may be comfortable with investments that offer higher potential returns but also carry a higher risk. A longer timeframe may allow individuals to ride out the market’s ups and downs. An investor with a shorter timeframe may need to consider market volatility when evaluating various investment choices.
This month’s Quakertown Senior High School Alumni Association feature article is about Dennis Pfleiger who graduated from QCHS in 1988. Dennis is currently the President of the St. Luke’s Quakertown/Upper Bucks Campus which is part of the St. Luke’s University Heath Network. He thoroughly enjoys the opportunity to work in the health care field while being able to give back to the community where he was raised. Dennis remembers fondly his days at Quakertown High School saying that his fondest memories are of his friendships, many of whom are still friends today. He calls those years the “best years of his life.” His activities during high school included playing football until tenth grade and participating in ski club every year. When asked about his favorite teacher the answer came very quickly, Mrs. Heley. It was her teaching of biology that spurred his interest in the sciences and specifically in heath care. She not only taught Biology but she also helped him to learn how to Afterstudy.graduation, Dennis attended Gwynedd Mercy College where he earned an Associate Degree in Respiratory Care. He then went on to Saint Joseph’s College of Maine in Standish, Maine where he earned a BS Degree in Respiratory Care/Health Care Administration. He later received his MBA from Bellevue University. He has been working in the Health Care Field since 1993. He started his career as a staff respiratory therapist at St. Luke’s Bethlehem Campus from 1993-1995. He then moved to Life Quest Nursing Center as a Respiratory Therapist in Quakertown from 1995-1997. He later became the Director of Respiratory Care at Palmerton Hospital and was in that position from 1997-2000. From 2001-2005 he was the Director of Patient Care Services at Sacred Heart Hospital in Allentown. From 2005-2012 he was the Vice President of Operations and Business Development at Sacred Heart. From 20122017 he was in the same position at Einstein Healthcare Network in East Norriton, PA. He then joined the St. Luke’s University Health Network where he served as Chief Operating officer at the Quakertown Campus before being promoted to the office of President of the St. Luke’s Quakertown Campus from 2017 to the present. He possesses significant skill in relationships with patients, physicians, staff, and the community.
He has also been a volunteer with the United Methodist Church Youth Group. He now serves on several boards of directors including the Perkiomen Chamber of Commerce, the YMCA, and United Way. He also takes pride in the current relationship between Quakertown High School and the Hospital in a program that links current high school students who are interested in careers in the health care field with the Hospital. He is married to Karen Pfleiger for 25 years and they have two children. His son, Caleb, is 23 and is a master’s degree student in communications at La Salle University. His daughter, Jocelyn, is 19 and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing at Hood College in Frederick, MD and currently on the softball team
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Congratulations to Mike and Karen Orzel of Quaker Cleaners Laundry who are celebrating the 60th anniversary of the opening of their laundromat. They were joined by good friend Father Michael Pawelko when receiving a certificate of achievement from State Representative Craig Staats. submitted photo
When you created your investment strategy, your asset allocation should have reflected your goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. But over time, any of those three factors may have changed, and your portfolio may now need adjustments to reflect your new investing priorities.
QCHS Alumni Spotlight: Dennis Pfleiger ’88
h idden m essage : you.”withbeForcethe“May b ucky b lock : work.ofoutMen
So, what can we do to keep those butterflies traveling to and from our area? The answer is most of all: plant native milkweed in your gardens. The caterpillars eat nothing else, and they are voracious eaters in their larval stage! Of course, that brings us to important step #2—do not risk having that milkweed poisoned by pesticides and herbicides! Keeping those harmful poisons away from our native vegetation is important to preserving all the various components of our ecosystem— fresh healthy milkweed is crucial to monarch survival. Climate change is also a threat to this insect, so our efforts to maintain a clean healthy environment also contributes to the reversal of monarch decline.
Meet Libby & Dwayne Last Chance Ranch
WOW! School has started again. I’m more aware of it because this year we have a human who is going to school. This is me with my new human Ngoc. That’s pronounced ‘Knock’ for you humans. It’s great to have an extra human for belly rubs and treats. As for the topic of weight, I am holding my own. My human mom isn’t doing so good in that department. The other day she was sitting in the car looking for her car keys and couldn’t find them. She then checked the house and then returned to search the car again. Upon opening the driver’s side car door she saw them sitting on the seat. Seems there is too much cushion in her posterior for her to feel the keys were there. We all had a good laugh… except her. ~Love Brandy
Buyer beware! People spend a couple hundred dollars on up to several thousands of dollars for their new puppy. They expect to be paying for a healthy puppy. But what happens if you bring home your puppy and it’s sick, has a defect - or even worsedies! This is a brief introduction to parts of the Puppy Lemon Law and doesn’t cover all of its Theaspects.Protection Act, otherwise known as the Puppy Lemon Law, is the unfair trade practices and consumer protection law which includes the dog purchaser’s protection provision to ensure that consumers buying a dog in Pennsylvania know their new puppy has a clean bill of health. You only have 10 days from the date of purchase to protect your rights under the Dog Purchasers Protection Act. If the puppy dies or has a certified illness or defect, the buyer must notify the seller immediately with the veterinarian’s information, name, address and phone number. The buyer must provide the veterinarian certificate to the seller within five days of receiving it. A veterinarian’s certification will state the purchaser’s name and address, the date the dog was examined, the breed and age of the dog, that the dog has an illness or defect which renders it unfit for purchase, the precise findings of the examination, any recommended treatment and the fees associated with the treatment, and the veterinarian’s name, address, telephone number, and signature. The purchaser is responsible for bearing the expense of the certification.
Consider adopting a furever friend today! Adoption fees range from a donation of your choice to $450 and include spay/neuter, 4dx tests, up to date vaccinations and preventatives. Applications are available at www.lastchanceranch.org and all adoptions are by appointment with an approved application. Occasional adoption events are held for walk-in adoptions. You can stay in the know by following us on Facebook at www.fb.com/LCRAnimalRescue or give us a call at (215) 538-2510.
BY PALMA MOYER, RN I remember it was a cold snowy day when Pearl Harbor was bombed on December 7, 1941. I was 6 yrs old and in first grade when the sirens and whistles blew , and we were sent home from school in a panic. This is when the USA became involved in world war 2, a war to end all wars. This was the time when all able bodied men were drafted and became part of the military forces. My two uncles were in the army. My uncle John was captured by the Germans but was able to escape into Italy where the townspeople hid him until he could find his way back to his unit. Everyone wanted to help the war effort. Women took over jobs that were previously done by men, hence Rosie the riveter. Children collected tin cans, and milk weed thistle to help in the making of parachutes and life jackets. Food and gasoline were rationed according to family size. Some people would save sugar to trade for cigarettes. “Butter” was made by squeezing a plastic bag with some kind of shortening--a big glob of yellow in the center. After squeezing for a time, it looked like butter. We also had to practice blackouts with air raid wardens to enforce them. This meant no lights on anywhere, no lit cigarettes. Every home was to have a bucket of sand and a shovel in case of fire from bombs. I remember everyone wanted to do their part in helping the war effort. At that time we were ALL the United States of America. My Aunt Pasquelina (Lena for short) joined the Army as a Nurse. She served with honor, courage, and dignity in Italy and other countries. She was my inspiration to be a nurse and for 65 years and counting, I am working in that profession. Whatever you do, do it well! You never know who is looking to you for inspiration. ~Palma Moyer, RN - TUH Class of 1957 Palma will be sHaring more oF Her exPeri ences anD PersPectives on nursing sHe can be reacHeD at DontHelPmemoyer@aol com Patriotism, Aunt’s Inspiration
If within 10 days of purchase the puppy dies, has a contagious infection, parasitic illness or becomes clinically ill, you have your options:Return the puppy for a complete refund Return the puppy for replacement dog of equal value or Retaining the dog and receive reimbursement for reasonable veterinary fees, not exceeding the purchase price.
ChewbaccaRobots,Lightsabers,Yoda,MasterHutt,theJabbaVader,DarthKenobi,WanObiTroopers,StormLeia,PrincessSolo,HanSkywalker,LukeFalcon,Millennium:
Our Home Garden/Watershed Hotline is open Monday thru Friday, 9-12 and 1-4. Our new office is being staffed in person on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Call first before visiting.
Penn State Extension Bucks County 576 Penns Park Road, Newtown, PA 18940 Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!
A national organization called Monarch Watch encourages creation of Monarch Waystations and will reward your efforts to create, restore or maintain milkweed and take steps to protect these insects’ habitats by designating your property as an official waystation. According to their website, first steps to creating a Monarch Waystation can be as simple as adding milkweeds and nectar sources to existing gardens or maintaining natural habitats with milkweeds. No effort is too small to have a positive impact. So, gardeners, there’s still time to get milkweed in your gardens this fall! Contact the Bucks County Garden/Watershed Hotline for help. Bucksmg@psu.edu or 267-483-2020
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.
14 • Upper Bucks Free Press • September 2022
So, what do we blame for the declining population of these amazing insects? Us! Of course! And what can change that direction with concentrated effort? Us, too! The Mexican government has intervened in recent years to stop deforestation of the Monarch winter retreat, but their delayed intervention has cost the butterfly much of its already modest area. Hopefully what is left of this destination will support these travelers and prevent extinction.
Monarch Butterflies Need Our Help!
Buying a pedigree breed puppy over the internet? While this may certainly provide a convenient way to buy a puppy, buyers should be aware of the dangers! Technology has made it possible for puppy buyers to buy an assortment of specific pedigree breeds. No Pennsylvania state laws specifically govern internet puppy sales. The cost of paying to return the puppy may far exceed the price of the puppy. So, good luck trying to get compensated for veterinarian care expenses. It’s always best to do your research when you’re going to purchase your new puppy.. submitteD by marion c o’neil cPDt ka, ctDi, owner anD instructor For molasses creek Dog training, llc, Quakertown sHe www molassescreekDogtraining com Puppy Lemon Law b uckygrams
We probably all remember those fun science class projects when we watched a plump yellow, black and white banded caterpillar turn into a green chrysalis (we learned the term: metamorphosis) and within a few weeks that chrysalis yielded a brilliant orange and black monarch butterfly. The process is one of nature’s most amazing and mysterious processes! A true delight to observe. Unfortunately, that opportunity may become a fading memory as last month, the Monarch Butterfly was added to the endangered species list by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The organization is reacting to a dramatic decline in this insect’s numbers— some suggesting that the decline is as much as 90% over the past three decades. The monarch’s metamorphosis is one of nature’s miracles—it all starts with an egg… or backing up…with a female butterfly… The monarch always lays its eggs on milkweed, that is the only host plant for the emerging caterpillar. In three to five days, the egg hatches yielding a hungry caterpillar. Like the literary caterpillar, this one is very hungry, but unlike that caterpillar, this one feeds exclusively on milkweed leaves. After a twoweek period of munching those leaves, it will morph into a chrysalis. Two weeks later, an adult butterfly will emerge. In our area, that emerging springtime butterfly will mate, lay eggs (on milkweed remember!), feed on flower nectar, and complete its life’s work in a few weeks. This process will repeat for four or five generations before the late summer monarch butterfly delays its maturity, loads up on plenty of nectar for energy and starts its migration! Unlike the first 3 summer generations with a short lifespan (2-6 weeks), this 4th and last-of-summer butterfly will live 6-8 months and journey 50-100 miles per day on its fall migrations. Nobody knows how these monarchs know the way, but they’re off to overwinter in central Mexico where our eastern (east of Rocky Mountains) population are bound. The 2–3000mile journey ends in the high mountain forest west of Mexico City for months of winter hiatus. In spring, these travelers reverse the journey they previously made using their internal compass to point them in the direction of their spring habitat. Along the way, these mature monarchs may seek out milkweed to lay eggs and start the year’s first generation of descendants. Somehow they pass along the instinct to breed, lay eggs on milkweed, fly, repeat, and ultimately (four generations and 6 months later) return to winter in a dwindling forest in Mexico where their great-greatgrandparents met.
Moved Me to Be a Nurse
Dwayne is a 7 1/2 year old tri-color pit. He came to us when his mom fell onto hard times. He is sweet and loveable to his people once he gets to know you. Dwayne was a rock star at Farm Camp by Philly Unleashed where he worked on his recall and basic manners to get ready to find his new forever home. While he is technically a senior dog, he still has tons of energy and loves to zoomie around the yard just as much as he enjoys sunbathing.
One year after the attack on September 11th, 2001, our Post started a tradition in our area of having a service on what is now known as “Patriot’s Day.” Eighteen lives of Bucks County residents were lost in the four airplane events of that day. (Two in the towers in New York City, 1 at the Pentagon near Washington D.C., and one near Shenksville, Pa.) This year is no exception. American Legion Post, located at 610 E. Broad Street, Quakertown, PA, will be holding their annual service honoring those who died that day and those who serve us in our fire companies (volunteer), Emergency Medical Services, and Police Departments. The unsung hero’s are there to serve us 24/7. Just as our military is there to protect us in the same way—world wide-- these people are our neighbors who unselfishly offer their services to protect us and our families right hear in our community. That is why we who have served want to take time out and have a function so YOU can take time out to do the same for these important men and women in our community. The time of the service is 11:00 AM in Sunday September 11th at our Post parking lot. Because it is on a weekend, we hope that the attendance will be higher than we have during the weekdays that Sept 11tth falls on. Please come out to this service to say thank you, as we of the Legion are proud to do yearly. We ask that you arrive between 10:30 and 10:45 and park away from the fire trucks. Two of the first responders (One Police Person and one fire person) will place a live floral wreath near our American Flag in a special ceremony. The reading of the 18 Bucks County residents (Including an Airline pilot) will be read. This is our time to remember that tragic day and at the same time let those who are there for us in our time of emergency know we appreciate them! As always we will keep those who serve in our Armed Forces in our thoughts and prayers and ask that “God Bless America.”
American Legion Post 242 Update
Krause Home and Lawn CareSeeking 2 or 3 individuals to expand business. Landscaping and/or construction experience is helpful. Hourly wage will be determined based on experience. FT and PT available. References requested. Clean driving record and driver’s license required. 267-261-7671
Employment Opportunities
September 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 15
Proper Brewing CompanyCurrently seeking servers, runners, hosts, and bartenders to join the Proper family. Email kris@theproperbrewing.com or stop in during business hours at 117 W. Broad Street, Quakertown.
Think Local. Give Local. Serve Local.
New Vitae Wellness & Recovery - Seeking PCA/MT, Cooks, Drivers, Maintenance Asst at our Quakertown locations. Signon bonus up to $1,000! Shift differential for 2nd & 3rd shift! Call 610-928-5246 or apply at NewVitaeWellness.com/careers.
Spor’s General Store - Hiring various positions, ages 15 & up. bspor@sporsgeneralstore.com or stop in the store at 22 W. Broad Street,Trumbauersville
BY DICK HELM
Quakertown Borough Family Rallies to Remember Joey Murgia
BY MICHELE BUONO
16 • Upper Bucks Free Press • September 2022
Joe Murgia has worked for the Borough of Quakertown for 25 years. As the Borough’s Director of Services, Murgia oversees Public Works, the electric department, and the water and sewer departments. If something is happening in the Borough of Quakertown, Joe knows about it. Until last month. At the annual Borough Public works picnic, Joe Murgia’s work family had a very special surprise for him. All of the employees had donated money to purchase a park bench to honor the memory of Joey Murgia, Joe’s son who passed away late last year. There was barely a dry eye in the park as Joe saw the bench and read the dedication plaque, “In Loving Memory of Joey Murgia 1988 –2021”. The plaque also has a photo of Joey. Joey Murgia was afflicted with Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy (OPCA). OCPA is a progressive condition characterized by the degeneration of nerve cells in the brain. There is currently no cure. The disorder slowly progresses with death usually occurring approximately 20 years after onset. Joey Murgia was just 33 years old when he passed away after being bedridden for the last five years of his short life. Joey had worked in the Public Works Department at the Borough part time for a couple of years until the OCPA made it impossible for him to continue. Borough Manager Scott McElree remembers Joey as “a great kid, a joy to be around.” McElree continued, “Joey always had a smile on his face. Like his dad, he was a hard worker and everyone liked him. He was a part of our Borough family.”
Julie Bender, the Borough’s Assistant Manager and Finance Director, said that there was no question that everyone in the Borough offices would want to contribute for the purchase of a memorial bench in Joey’s honor. “Because we are a family and this is what we do”, said Julie. “Joe helps everyone and everyone wanted to do this for him.”
Julie enlisted Joe’s wife, Marina, and all of the department heads and employees to help keep the surprise. The bench was ordered in January and dedicated at the Public Works picnic in Memorial Park in July. The bench is not the only reminder of Joey Murgia. Inspired by his son, Joe has brought the My Works program to the Borough. This program, funded through the county and state, brings youths to work at the Borough to give them work experience. The program completed its second year and is catching on with other local municipalities.
Honda’s Civic has been the carmakers top selling compact car having sold over 12 million since 1973. The iconic Civic, now in its 11th generation, gets better with every model year. And the 2022 version exemplifies that. Its wheelbase was stretched 1.4 inches and its track was widened by 0.5 inches for improved ride and handling. Civic is also a bit lighter with the addition of an aluminum hood yet its chassis is 19 percent stiffer. Civic hatchback is offered in LX, EX-L and Sport Touring that was tested. The latter is sporty in many ways including its styling. A low-slung hood gives it a slick, racy look and its back end continues the theme with a slight trunk lid spoiler and Ovid tailpipes. Civics’ interior is equally attractive and classy. A 9-inch touchscreen serves Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connection, Bose audio, satellite radio, navigation with 3D mode that shows buildings to make identification of nearby landmarks easier, a rearview camera with three different views plus an overhead 360-degree view, satellite radio and more. Included as well is a wireless phone charger at the base of the vertical stack. The 10.2-inch all digital customizable instrument cluster doubles as a driver information display with alerts, functions, features plus selected driving modes that appear on the analog type speedometer/ tachometer gauges. It’s supplemented with a digital readout speedometer. The digital tach displays features like radio station selections and more. Carbon fiber type trim adorns the console that compliments the heated front leather seats that are nicely supportive for spirited driving maneuvers. I’m surprised though that Honda didn’t include a sporty flat-bottom steering wheel, although one may be in the hot Civic A mode switch on the console offers Normal, Eco and Sport modes. The latter changes pedal and throttle pressure and it increases rpm’s by about 1,000 for livelier performance. Normal mode is a balance between Sport and Eco whereas Eco maintains economical fuel economy. With the stretched wheelbase, rear seat legroom became more spacious for two adults or three youngsters. Behind them, the hatch trunk is one of the more spacious in its class at 24.5 cubic feet that measures 35 inches deep, 45 wide and 30 high. Flip the 60/40 split folding rear seats and cargo loading depth expands to 66 inches. Beneath the cargo floor is the space saver spare around which some small items can be stowed. Ride quality on Continental 18-inch tires is quiet and smooth while handling is precise. There’s also a steering assist mode that keeps the Civic between the roadway lines. A “Steering Required” on the speedometer alerts the driver to place a hand on the steeringPowertrainwheel.wise, Civics are offered with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 158-hp and 138 lb/ ft of torque; the tested 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 180-hp and 177 lb/ft of torque; or the 1.5-liter turbo four with 200hp, 192 lb/ft in the hot Si.
photo by christopher betz
September 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 17
The 1.5-liter turbo four we tested uses a larger torque converter and it couples to either a 6-speed manual transmission that’s offered in the Sport Touring, or CVT that shifts like a traditional automatic transmission under heavy throttle and supplemented with paddle shifters. With the CVT, the EPA rates the Civic Sport Touring at 30 city, 37-highway mpg. Those are almost hybrid numbers and impressive for a performance car. The 2022 Civic Sport Touring offers the best of both worlds i.e. economy and performance, all at a reasonable price of $30,810 with delivery. The tested Sport Touring model actually carried a base price of $29,400 that was abundantly equipped with such safety features as rear cross traffic/driver attention monitors, tire pressure monitoring, blind spot system, low speed braking control, lane keeping assist, collision mitigation braking, road departure monitor, traffic jam assist, and many more including a sunroof. The only extra cost option was $395 for the paint job. As Honda’s top seller, the only way Civic could be better is if it had AWD for us here in the Snowbelt. nick Hromiak is an automotive entHusiast anD Freelance writer we look ForwarD to bringing you His new column eacH montH He can be reacHeD at nHromiak@verizon net Honda Civic St. Paul’s United Church of Christ (UCC), located at 104 Green St., Sellersville, officially opened its Little Garden Library with a ribbon cutting and dedication service on Sunday, August 21. The ‘take a book, share a book’ community library box is part of the national and international Little Free Library network. “At St. Paul’s we strive to live out our call to serve the community. Literacy is a basic but is fundamental in our ability to perform everyday tasks as we grow and mature,” said Rev. Trudy Irving. “The book sharing box has a basic concept: take a book ~ leave a book. We hope you will stop by soon and visit!” Located in front of the church building, the Little Garden Library proudly is accessible by anyone of any age, at any time. The rotating stock of shared books includes St. Paul’s UCC Dedicates Sellersville’s Newest ‘Little Library’
2022
Rev. Trudy Irving (center right, white shirt) and members of St. Paul’s UCC in Sellersville cut the ribbon on the community’s newest free library box. submitted photo
First UCC Bible School Supports Soles4Souls (left right) Olivia, Victoria, Joshua, Christopher, and Director of Christian Education Dale Slemmer.
First United Church of Christ in Quakertown held their community bible school in July. They supported the non-profit, Soles4Souls as the mission project. The children collected over 100 pairs of new and gently worn shoes. At Soles4Soles, they turn unwanted shoes and clothing into opportunity, by keeping them from going to waste and putting them to good use – providing relief, creating jobs and empowering people to break the cycle of poverty. First United Church will resume their Sunday School programming on September 18th. Classes available for Pre-School – 9th grade. All are welcome. For more information contact sundayschool@firstucc.net
18 • Upper Bucks Free Press • September 2022
Hi my name is Alyssa Zirkelbach. I am from Quakertown, PA and I am 9 years old. I have 2 deaf dogs at home! They are both rescued white boxers. Their names are Skye and Drager. Skye will be two in October and Drager will be one next January. My dogs are so smart! They attend Molasses Creek Dog Training and they have a great teacher named Miss Marion. I am writing this because so many people feel that deaf dogs can’t learn when they really can! It just takes practice, patience, lots of treats, encouragement and love! These are the first deaf dogs I have ever had and I love them so much! In class they learned how to sit, stay, wait, roll over, leave it and so many other things. They both know over 25 signs! There are so many deaf dogs sitting in shelters that need homes. People should not be afraid to adopt deaf dogs. Deaf dogs are easy to train and they make the best companions! Please get all the deaf dogs out of the shelters they need homes too!
“By all these lovely tokens, September days are here. With Summer’s best of weather and Autumn’s best of cheer.” - Helen Hunt Jackson
Deaf Dogs Are Awesome!
A tragic event in October 2020 has spurred new safety regulations at Pennsylvania State Parks as well as a movement to educate the public and to inspire people to help provide hope for the future. Recent Pennridge High School graduate, Jason Kutt of West Rockhill Township, along with his girlfriend, was enjoying a peaceful sunset on the banks of Lake Nockamixon on the evening of October 26. A hunter, who says he thought he was shooting at a groundhog hundreds of yards away, struck Jason in the neck with a bullet from a high-powered rifle. Jason died shortly thereafter at the hospital as a result of that injury. His girlfriend was not physically injured. After 60 days on the run, the hunter was brought to justice and will serve seven to twenty years in prison as a result. Of course, that won’t bring Jason back, but his legacy will live on thanks to his parents, family, and friends, and his passing will not have been in vain. As an organ donor, Jason has benefited over 240 people with his life-giving donations. As a result of determined lobbying to the Pennsylvania State legislature and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Jason’s parents, Ronald and Dana Kutt, spurred very important changes to hunting regulations in four state parks; ones that may very well prevent the death or injury to others by the circumstances that ended Jason’s life. The policy change, which went into effect last month, still allows hunters to use shotguns, muzzleloaders, and bows to hunt game in Nockamixon. The same regulations are now also in place at Marsh Creek State Park in Downingtown, Evansburg State Park in Collegeville, and the White Clay Creek Preserve in Landenberg. “We asked them the hard questions and brought some concerns, but we also brought some possible solutions,” Dana Kutt said. “They did their due diligence behind the scenes, and they came up with something they could implement quickly, to reduce the risk of someone getting hurt.” “This will, at the very least, make it a
Small Town, Big Concerts Quakertown Community Pulls Together to Bring the Music
The venue, the Univest Performance Center, located in the borough’s Park at 4th, has been hosting concerts since the summer of 2017 with a lineup of three concerts. The 2022 lineup included six diverse concerts including oldies, country, 80s, and heavy metal. This year’s concert series included new Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and 80s icon Pat Benatar with her husband Neil Giraldo. Making the concert series happen each summer doesn’t just happen. “It takes a community to raise a concert series.” Ashton, Courtney Burns, and Jess Myers of the Parks and Recreation Department take the lead each concert a success. Borough Manager Scott McElree commented, “The Parks and Recreation Department does a magnificent job with booking the acts, planning the concerts, and bringing it all together. And we would not have enjoyed the successes without the sponsors and all the volunteers.” There are approximately 70 volunteers at each concert, totaling almost 2800 hours. The Quakertown Community High School cheerleading team volunteered over 225 hours to help prep the concert area. Concert days begin early with Borough employees, the production company, and band crew hard at work to give ticketholders a great concert experience. Consequently, and for safety reasons, the Park at 4th is closed to visitors all day when there is a concert. “Our favorite aspect of the concert series is the pure magic that the venue brings to the community. Our venue is unique as it is a passive park on an average day, but on the day of a concert there is a whole production that comes together to make the venue what it is,” says Ashton. “And after the event starts we see relatives, friends, coworkers, and neighbors of all ages come together for the common joy of music and togetherness, seeing the attendees sing, dance, eat, and drink together, enjoying the night with us in the park under the stars as a community.” Ashton and her team are already working on the 2023 concert lineup. And while we won’t know for a few months what musical acts will be visiting Quakertown, Scott McElree reminds us to “Keep an eye out for next year’s
honor Jason’s legacy.” Weintraub goes on to say that while the action from the DCNR is a great start, more needs to be done to prevent these types of tragedies.Hunters and non-hunters are able to use the same space at the same time. The Kutts hope to address that overlap. “Maybe larger buffer zones, more safety zones, that sort of thing. You know, to get so that there’s not as much intermix between hunters, hikers, boaters, and bikers,” Ron Kutt said. “There’s always going to be an inherent danger for non-hunters during hunting season; I think that there needs to be a way to either separate the times during which hunters and nonhunters can use the park or separate the seasons during which hunters and nonusers can use the park.” said“I’mWeintraub.ahunter,” Ron said. “I’m in no way trying to take anybody’s gun or hunting rights away. But those particular type of weapons are just kind of unsafe in an area as populated as this oneAis.”foundation called the Jason Kutt Legacy Fund has been established to raise awareness and funds to help causes in the community. “It was a traumatic incident, but we’re past the tragedy part of it,” Jason’s mother Dana Kutt said, “We’re focusing on taking a negative and turning it into positive.”
BY MICHELE BUONO It’s been a hot summer in the Borough of Quakertown – and we aren’t talking about the weather. Quakertown’s annual summer concert series at the Univest Performance Center, the Sands Sounds of Summer series, just had its most successful season to date. Over 11,000 people from the entire tri-state region and beyond traveled to Quakertown to enjoy a night of music served up with small-town friendliness. Of course, bringing that number of people into the Borough has raised awareness of the local business community, a fact that Ashton Miller, Recreation Coordinator for Quakertown Borough recognizes as important to the local business community.
Kris Wilson, owner of The Proper Brewing Company, confirms, “Concert nights bring more people to the downtown and into our place to enjoy dinner and drinks before they head over to the park for the concert.”
The foundation does “Car shows, blood drives. 5K walks and runs,” said Jason’s father Ron Kutt. “… And Zumba classes!” Dana added. “It felt really good to help others and give back to those people that were there for us when we needed them the most.” “He had a heart of gold and always felt the need to put others before himself.”
September 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press • 19
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“The most important day of a person’s education is the first day of school, not Graduation Day.” Harry Wong
State Park Hunting Regulations Strengthened, Jason Kutt Legacy Rock Concert Slated
Even with the victory of the new hunting regulations, the Kutt family emphasizes that there is still much work yet to do. They are planning a September 10th benefit concert at the Univest Performance Center in the Park at Fourth in Quakertown. The proceeds will go to different charities and organizations in The Party at the Park is set to take place 1 to 6 pm and will feature music by: Strange Culture (Bucks County rock cover band), Clean Slate (Lehigh Valley rock and dance cover band), Street Survivors (Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band), Van Halen Nation (tribute band) and The Land of Ozz (Ozzy Osbourne “These are seriously good bands! Very popular. You are definitely in for a good time!” says Ron. Tickets are $30. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. It is lawn seating, so bring a folding chair or blanket to sit on. See complete details right next to this article, complete with a QR code to buy tickets. “Jason was all about helping others. He never asked why, but if someone needed help with something, he did it,” Jason’s parents remark, “We just feel that over the years people have gotten away from that, and we want his legacy and passion for helping others to Tocontinue.”keepupwith the Jason Kutt Legacy Fund, visit JasonKutt.org
Jason Kutt’s parents Dana and Ron Kutt sit on the bench Ron made memorializing their son at the site where he was killed two years ago by a hunter’s bullet at Lake Nockamixon. They smile at the memory of their son and for the positive changes being made to make the park safer as well as the awesome positivity Jason’s legacy is providing to the community.
The Most Common Injuries of the Weekend Warrior
The Most Common Injuries of the Weekend Warrior
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The orthopedic care you trust in Upper Bucks County. Now more than ever. New patients welcome. Schedule your appointment today by calling 484-526-1735. St. Luke’s Bone & Joint Institute 1534 Park Avenue, Suite 210, Quakertown, PA 18951 Dr. Gilson also see patients at St. Luke’s West End Medical Center, 501 Cetronia Road, in Allentown. Dr. Smith also sees patients at the St. Luke’s Anderson Campus Specialty Pavilion, 2200 St. Luke’s Boulevard, in Easton. sluhn.org/ortho
Monday, 5 – 6 pm Upper Perkiomen YMCA 1399 Quakertown Road, Pennsburg September 19
Thursday, 11 am – 12 pm YMCA of Bucks County – Quakertown 401 Fairview Avenue, Quakertown October 6
Gregory Gilson, DO and Tyler Smith, DO of St. Luke’s Orthopedic Care
A Talk with Gregory Gilson, DO Orthopedic Surgeon/Adult Joints
A Talk with Tyler Smith, DO Orthopedic Surgeon/Sports Medicine October 3
Understanding Osteoarthritis and its Effects on Hips and Knees
FREE TALKS IN PENNSBURG
Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Gregory Gilson and Dr. Tyler Smith have joined the St. Luke’s Orthopedic Care team in Quakertown and provide care for patients at the new St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus. Dr. Gilson specializes in joint replacement and reconstruction, and joint-preserving treatments. Dr. Smith diagnoses and treats the full spectrum of injuries, offering conservative and surgical options.
Accepting new patients!
A Talk with Tyler Smith, DO Orthopedic Surgeon/Sports Medicine November 17
FREE TALKS!Gregory Gilson, DO and Tyler Smith, DO
Understanding Osteoarthrtis and its Effects on Hips and Knees
A Talk with Gregory Gilson, DO Orthopedic Surgeon/Adult Joints RSVP to 1-866-STLUKES option 4 or email mystlukes@sluhn.org
20 • Upper Bucks Free Press • September 2022
FREE TALKS IN QUAKERTOWN
