Now to December 7
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?
Pearl S. Buck Juried Craft Show, 10am4pm daily. Handmade Crafts by 50+ Artisans. $5 daily admission at Pearl S. Buck House, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. 215-249-0100, pearlsbuck.org
Now to January 4
Annual Festival of Trees at Pearl S. Buck House, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. pearlsbuck.org
December 2 GivinG Tuesday
‘Be Born in Us’ – a candlelit evening of music, story, & reflection, followed by desserts & conversation. 7pm at Church of St. Isidore, 2545 W Pumping Station Rd, Quakertown. All are welcome! Register at 215-854-7002
Santa Paws is visiting Camp Mill Pond in Quakertown. Stop by & take your own pet pictures for free. Also 12/4, 12/9, 12/11. Times are 1pm-2pm or 1pm-3pm. No sign-up! 215-536-4443
December 5
Free Christmas Concert 6pm with Quakertown High School Varsity Singers at Providence Presbyterian, 220 Krammes Rd, Quakertown.
Order hoagies from Trumbauersville Fire Co by today for pickup December 14. Call Jen at 215-989-0909
“Christmas in Connecticut” -Free Movie Matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
Lego Bingo, open 5pm, games 6pm at Plumsteadville Fire Co, 5064 Stump Rd, Pipersville. (r/d Dec 12) Tickets: $40/ adv, $45/door if available. Also raffles & prizes. Snacks & extra cards will be available. pvfc2420.org/bingo
DJ Oldies Dance Benefit, 7pm10pm. Opens 6:30pm at SPARKS Senior Center, 312 Alumni Ave, Harleysville. $12 admission. BYOB. lindahlove@hotmail.com
‘Holiday Event’ First Friday Perkasie 6pm-8pm on W Walnut St, downtown Perkasie. Live music, entertainment, games, crafts, food trucks, shopping & dining specials. perkasieptia.com
‘Dublin Holiday Gathering & Tree Lighting’ 5pm-8pm on N Main St in Town Center. Entertainment, Santa lights the Tree, gingerbread man decorating, carriage rides, kids’ activities, carolers and more.
December 5, 6, 7
22nd Annual Kringle Christmas Shoppe opens 10am each day at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry St, Quakertown. Local vendors sharing their creative ware for purchase. Refreshments available. kringlechristmasshoppe.org
“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” live performance at DCP Theatre, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Fri/Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm. Box Office: 215-234-0966. Tickets and Story details: dcptheatre.org
December 6
Annual Reindeer Run 5K & One Mile Fun Walk, 8am Start at Generations of Indian Valley, 259 N 2nd St, Souderton. Registration Fee includes t-shirt, antlers, hot breakfast, raffle entry. Generationsofiv.org
Winter Breakfast 9am-11am at Upper Bucks County Technical School, 3115 Ridge Rd, Perkasie. $12/adult, $8/ages 3-9. Crafts and Santa will be there. Bring a camera!
Living Nativity performances with actors, music, & live animals, 3pm & 5pm at Trinity Lutheran, 2170 Route 212, Coopersburg. 610-346-7282
“Christmas in Quakertown” at First United Church of Christ, 151 S 4th St. ‘A Joyous Acclamation’ 7pm prelude followed by The Festival Choir, Quakertown Band, First UCC Bell Choir, and Quakertown High School Varsity Singers. All are welcome!
“Christmas in Perkasie” 4pm, takes a look at past Christmas celebrations in Perkasie that evolved into today’s Tree Lighting event. Also, an operating model train display at Perkasie Historical Society Museum, 513 W Walnut St.
America’s Oldest Tree Lighting Event! 5pm-8pm. Food trucks, holiday performers, festive music and Santa lights the tree at 7pm in Downtown Perkasie.
Ask a Teen Tech Help, 2pm, 3pm at Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St. Bring questions about Word formatting, email, laptop/tablet help, social media, phone app tutorials. Register: tinyurl. com/askateen
December 6 & 7
‘Frosty’s Christmas Bazaar & Craft Fair’ at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, 100 Broad St, Hilltown. Sat 9am3:30pm, Sun 9am-2pm. Basket raffle, Bake table, Santa, and much more. FMI: olsh-hilltown.com
Nativity Open House-Sat 9am-4pm, Sun 12noon-3pm. Grace United Methodist, 295 S Main St, Telford. See 200+ Nativity scenes for free. Choir will sing carols at 1pm-2pm. Light refreshments available. 215-723-2144
Christmas Market at Schwenkfelder Heritage Center, 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. Sat 9:30am-4pm, Sun 12noon-4pm. Basket Raffle & Holiday Rummage Sale, Holiday exhibits & music. 215-679-3103
Minsi Trail Holiday Open House at Passer Community Center, 2580 Richlandtown Pike, Coopersburg. Sat 9am-3pm, Sun 12noon-3pm. Crafts & Baked goods. December 7
Breakfast with Santa, 8am-12noon at Springtown Station, 3010 Rt 212, Springtown. $12/adults, $6/ages 5-8, free/0-4
Live Nativity performances every 15 minutes from 3pm-7pm at Jerusalem Lutheran, 733 Ridge Rd, Sellersville. jelchurch.com
Christmas Carol Sing-a-Long 3pm at West Swamp Mennonite, 2501 Allentown Rd, Quakertown. All welcome!
‘An Evening of Gospel Christmas’ 3pm with Jeff Krick at Trinity UCC, 101 S Main St, Telford. Free-will offering. 267377-9216
‘O Holy Light’ Candlelight Service with The Cantata Choir at 7:30pm at St. John’s UCC at Church (Rt 212) & Main Sts, Richlandtown. 215-538-0875. (Snow date Dec. 21 at 7:30pm) 215-538-0875
8th Annual Holiday Basket Bingo, open 11:30am, games 1pm at Sellersville Fire House, 2 N Main St. $30/adv, $35/door if available. Also Raffles, Chinese Auction, 50/50, more. No one under 14. Tickets/ info: 215-257-4028 ext 6. NOT BYOB
December 10
Christmas Party 11:30am at Upper Bucks Activity Center, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown. $17/person includes lunch & music. Tickets must be purchased in advance. 215-536-3066
December 12
“A Christmas Story” -Free Movie Matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
Community Dance for Singles & Couples (age 50+) Open 6:30pm, dance 7pm-10pm. $12/person, BYOB & snacks, casual dress. Generations, 259 N 2nd St, Souderton. Questions? lindahlove@hotmail.com
Open Mic Night at the Trolley Barn, 108 E Broad St, Quakertown. 7pm10pm. Have some fun whether you are participating or just watching from the audience.
December 12, 13, 14
“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” live performance at DCP Theatre, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Fri 7:30pm, Sat 3pm & 7:30pm, Sun 2pm. Box Office: 215234-0966. Tickets and Story details: dcptheatre.org
December 13
Charlie Zahm’s “Celtic” Christmas Concert (seasonal melodies of Ireland/ Scotland) 7pm at Solomon’s UCC, 2990 Bedminster Rd (Rt 113), Perkasie. Free admission, but free-will donations are welcome. solomonsucc.org
Craft Fair 10am-3pm at Pennridge High School, 1228 N 5th St, Perkasie. Gifts, Crafts, Food, Raffle Basket, Santa! Perkasie Borough Candy Cane Lane, 9am-9pm. Stroll our small-town streets, discover gifts & holiday specials, Horse & Carriage rides 9-11am, Visit Santa 10am-noon, Indoor farmers market at Firehouse. All Day Breweries & Eateries.
Perkasie Historical Society Christmas House Tour of beautiful homes, a church & outdoor displays. 3pm-8pm at Museum, 513 W Walnut St. Booklet at Museum. Self-guided tour or ride ‘Special’ bus. Music: Pennridge HS Chamber Choir. See ‘Perkasie tour’ on FB for reservation info.
Sellersville 2025 Winterfest, 5pm-8pm. Santa & Mrs Claus photos, Carriage rides, s’mores, crafts, games throughout town, a holiday passport for prizes, more. Largest live Christmas tree lighting in PA. Check their FB page or website.
December 13 & 14
‘Wonderland of Trees’ 12noon-4pm, live holiday music. Santa & Mrs Claus here on Sunday only. Free, donations welcome. Vote for your favorite tree. Sellersville Museum, 120 E Church St, Sellersville.
December 14
Outdoor Live Nativity 12noon-3pm at First UCC, 4th & Park Ave, Quakertown. Free Hot Chocolate! 215-536-4447
‘O Holy Light’ Candlelight Service with The Cantata Choir at 3pm at St. John’s UCC at Church (Rt 212) & Main Streets, Richlandtown. 215-538-0875. (Snow date Dec. 21 at 3pm) 215-538-0875
Caleb's Cocoa Cafe! 8th Annual Fundraiser for Homeless Shelter! 2pm4pm. Live Music, Hot Cocoa, Baked Items from local bakeries.Everything is $1. Join us at 207 N Ambler St, Quakertown.
Trumbauersville Hoagie Sale Day! Italian, Ham, Turkey & Roast Beef. Advance orders need to be placed 10 days prior to Sale. Pick-up is from 12noon-2pm today. Info: Jen 215-989-0909.
Community Holiday Party Tradition, 1pm-4pm at Pearl S. Buck House, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. Also a complimentary tour of The Festival of Trees, live holiday music, kids’ crafts & a visit from Santa!
December 16
Board Game Night! 6pm at Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St. Free! Try out new games or revisit classic favorites. Bring your own or choose from our wide selection.
December 17
Christmas Sing-A-Long with our Band & Chorus after our 11:30am Lunch at Upper Bucks Activity Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown. Must sign up 2 weeks prior at 215-536-3066.
December 18
Free Community Supper 5:30pm at First UCC, 4th & Park Ave, Quakertown. 215-536-4447.
December 19
Visit the Real Pet Santa 5pm-8pm at Brewscuits, 100 Emlen Way, Suite 118, Telford. Photos $10/one pet, $15/up to 3 pets. Proceeds benefit Last Chance Ranch Animal Rescue.
“The Shop Around the Corner” -Free Movie Matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
December 20
Christmas Party 7pm-12midnight, ‘Ricky Smith & The Crush Live Band’ at Trumbauersville Betterment Club, 2000 Oak Dr, Trumbauersville. $5/door for non-members. Food Buffet 7pm ($12). Band 8pm, Silent Auction. Menu: 215538-1314
December 21 WinTer beGins
December 24 ChrisTmas eve
Christmas Eve Services at First UCC, 151 S 4th St, Quakertown. 7pmTraditional Service of lessons & carols with our Adult & Children’s Choirs & Music. 11pm-Candlelight Service with Contemplative and Celebratory Service. 215-536-4447
December 25 ChrisTmas day
December 26
“The Man Who Came to Dinner” -Free Movie Matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
December 27
‘Movie Musicals 101’ at 6pm, Quakertown Library, 301 W Mill St. Join us for a dazzling journey through the songs, stars, & show-stopping numbers that made Hollywood unforgettable.
December 31 neW year’s eve
January 1, 2026 happy neW year!
January 2
Lehigh Valley Zoo will visit Quakertown Library at 2pm. Interactive show with live animals.
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.
First UCC’s Christ Community Café Marks 5 Years of Serving Hope, Meals
BY ALYSE FEDERSEL
This month, Christ Community Café proudly marks its fifth anniversary of providing monthly to-go meals for individuals and families in our church and surrounding community. What began as a small act of compassion during the earliest days of COVID-19 has grown into a sustained ministry that has served more than 6,000 meals—and continues to be a lifeline for many. When in-person community dinners were halted in 2020, one family and our church stepped forward to ensure that no one would go without a meal or a reminder that they were cared for. Together, a mother, her two daughters, and her own mother began preparing and packaging meals at First UCC. Their simple desire to keep serving the community quickly grew into what is now known as the Christ Community Café. Today, the Café remains entirely self-funded, supported through church-
ingredients, prepare food, assemble meals, and make deliveries each month. In addition to serving church members and local residents in need, volunteers also deliver meals to Outreach Care recipients and several of our shut-ins who look forward to the monthly visit as much as the meal itself. The Café’s mission is simple but impactful: to serve with love, dignity, and consistency. Over the past five years, it has become a testament to what a small group of committed people can accomplish when they combine faith, compassion, and community spirit. As Christ Community Café celebrates this milestone, organizers extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported the ministry— whether by volunteering, donating, praying, or simply spreading the word.
We’re happy to share that our monthly dinners have resumed and are served on the third Thursday @ 5:30pm of each month.
2025 VW Golf R
If you’re young or young at heart and want a pocket rocket for some driving excitement, check out Volkswagen’s 2025 Golf R sedan that has the utility of a hatchback with impressive cargo space. That, plus it has more power than VW’s famed Golf GTI and with AWD (4MOTION), the Golf R can handle nasty weather conditions.
We were fortunate to have tested the new Black Edition and as the name implies, the R comes with special black wheels, racy heated flat-bottom steering wheel, and quad exhaust tips that’s part of the lightweight titanium Akrapovic exhaust system.
Golf R’s exterior has smooth swoopy lines that end with a sporty rear end topped with a hatch spoiler. It even looks quick like it’s traveling 60 mph standing still.
On the interior, it too is sporty with real carbon fiber trim adorning the dash along with heated front seats that have a good amount of lateral support to hug the torso during spirited driving. The passenger seat power reclines to soothe the passenger on a long trip. And there’s adjustable ambient lighting to set a mood.
Centered on the dash is a 12.9-inch touchscreen that offers an array of features and functions including navigation, review camera, Sirius radio with voice control to adjust the radio and climate control, smartphone app connect for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Harmon Kardon audio, HVAC selections, mode selections of Eco, Comfort, Sport, Race, Custom, Drift and Special, park assist, Wi-Fi capability and more.
On the console, there’s a phone charging pad that shares the space with a nifty gear selector for the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that is supplemented with paddle shifters on the steering wheel. For Drive mode, merely flick the short selector forward, and backward for Reverse. A separate switch selects Park gear.
Over on the 10.25-inch customizable digital instrument cluster, it includes a driver information display between the main gauges for alerts, features and functions.
The heated back seat can accommodate two adults with limited leg room particularly if the fronts are racked well rearward, but there’s generous head room. Rear doors could open wider for a chubby guy like me and to ease ingress/egress into the rear seat. But assist handles over all four doors assist the transition.
Back in the spacious cargo area and
with the rear seatbacks upright, there’s 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space that measures 29.5 inches deep, 41 wide and 29.5 high. There’s also a pass-through for long items like skis or fishing rods. Flip the 60/40 seats and capacity expands to 34.5 cubic feet for 58 inches of loading depth. With all the seats down, Volkswagen says a bicycle can be carried.
Beneath the two-tiered cargo floor is the Harman Kardon sound system where some small items can be stowed around it.
Under the hood is what makes the Golf R special. Therein lies a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that generates a whopping 328-hp and 295 lb/ft of torque.
Coupled to the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the combination earns EPA mileage ratings of 22 city, 31-highway mpg.
To say the Golf R is a hot hatch is an understatement. It has head-snapping acceleration that pushes the torso into the seatbacks, especially in Sport mode. And by selecting Race or Drift mode, Golf R comes into its own. But I can’t figure out who would abuse a great car by racing it.
Parades
I am sure I’m in the minority on this. Parades are one of the most ridiculous things in the world.
You may not agree. My wife Shelli doesn’t agree with me either I hate them. Not Shelli. Just parades. Who came up with this idea, that we should block traffic for people that have to get places? And what’s the purpose? I don’t understand how this is a celebration.
As for ride and handling, it parks easily thanks to its size and electric power steering. However, the ride is a tad on the taut side with a stout suspension and shod with Hankook 19-inch low-profile tires. And because of the latter, the ride can be a bit stiff with major road imperfections reverberating into the cabin. But the R grips the road like super glue. There’s no lean in sharp turns taken at speed. It’s certainly not a VW Tiguan in the ride department. But performance is what you pay for, and get with the Golf R.
Starting at a base price of $48,415, this includes a host of safety features and functions such as lane keeping assist, forward collision warning w/automatic braking and pedestrian/cycling monitoring, blind spot monitor, rear traffic assist, adaptive cruise control and loads more. The only extra cost options were for Golf R Euro Style Package ($3,795) and Heavy-Duty Trunk Liner ($295) that along with delivery ($1,225) took the bottom line to $53,731. Yes, that’s a lot of buckos, but as said, you’re buying an AWD performance car that offers some utility.
Young or young at heart, Golf R is built for the Autobahn plus it has Volkswagen’s proven reliability.
Nick Hromiak is aN automotive eNtHusiast aNd freelaNce writer. He caN be reacHed at NHromiak@verizoN Net
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.
I realize each has deep cultural or historical roots, and for some groups, it’s their biggest day of public visibility all year, but come on!!! I have things to do!
I’ve only walked in one parade my entire life. I was perhaps six years old, living in Allentown, and for some reason, we took a bus all the way to Phillipsburg, New Jersey to walk in their parade. In early 60s, Phillipsburg seemed very far from Allentown.
It was a typical winter’s night, dark, cold, and snowing, with me wearing a Superman costume that was extremely tight, thanks to my chubby little body. Mom had loosened it up as much as she could, but even with the great seamstress in charge, there was simply more of me than the costume wanted to hold. Somehow, slowly, I squeezed myself in. (Good thing I had watched my dad make sausage so many times.)
Some may remember when they sold pants for boys in size Husky, apparently invented for me. Husky is a nicer way to say fat. I was Husky. Superman was not. Hence, my problem.
Getting off the bus that took us to walk in the parade, my pants split, right down the back, but the women in charge forced me to walk anyway! Nobody would notice they said. Are you kidding me?
Unbelievable. First the nuns would beat me during the day in catholic school, and now the female adults were going to humiliate me in the streets of P-burg at
night. Apparently, even at that young age, the opposite sex was somehow annoyed by me.
Some things never change.
Or maybe I never changed.
Finally, after what seemed like many, many, long hours, I slowly shuffled back to the bus, cheeks clenched tight, traumatized because we marched not only through the town, but through the town with the little girls from my neighborhood, who could all see my stretched out white underwear, glowing brightly through the blue Superman pants.
The final embarrassment: I was dropped off at my parents’ home, and had to run up the 20 steps to our house with everyone on the bus watching, including the longhaired beauty that I had a secret crush on. There went that idea. She never looked at me the same.
Luckily, at least mom made me wear clean underwear. Maybe deep down she knew her squashed little fat bratwurst would break out of his casing.
However, my Superman excursion has nothing to do with my disdain for parades, although perhaps deep down it has a subconscious effect.
Having a few New York doctors visit today, which should have been a nice 20-minute drive from my 1st to 2nd appointment, I tried to turn down 23rd St. but it was blocked off. So was 24th. And 25th. I texted Shelli, queen of all things traffic related, and of course there’s a parade! Now she tells me. My 20-minute ride took over an hour!
As established earlier, I hate parades.
However, I do suppose there is of course, one thing that would take away my objections…if the legendary Philadelphia Eagle Jason Kelce, inebriated and in a very colorful Mummer’s outfit, came out of retirement for just one day to make a Superbowl winning speech at the parade’s conclusion, I might change my mind.
JoHN scHaNiNger is a lifeloNg resideNt of PeNNsylvaNia aNd Has lived iN uPPer black eddy for over 15 years reacH Him at m12striNg@aol com
Kringle Christmas Shoppe sponsored by the Haycock Historical Society has a new location- Benner Hall on Cherry
Rodney Lee "Rod" BeaLeR, 66, of Richlandtown, passed away suddenly on November 13, 2025. He was born in Quakertown on June 29, 1959 to the late Raymond and Dolores (Weaver) Bealer. Rod was the loving husband of Barbara Ann (Matthews) Bealer for 46 years. He was an avid woodworker and loved following the Phillies and Eagles. Rod was a great family man and loved to spend time with his grandchildren who affectionately referred to him as "Paps". He loved food and enjoyed cooking for everyone.
Rod is survived by his wife Barbara; children Nicholas Bealer (Lisa), Joseph Bealer (Lauren), and Alisha Lansberg (Brandon); 6 grandchildren; siblings Gregory Bealer, Jeffrey Bealer (Magdalena), and Wendy Bealer; and many other loving family and friends.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
GaRy L. BenneR, age 69, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at his home in Quakertown, PA. Born in Sellersville, PA he was the son of the late Edward Benner and the late Margaret Miller Benner.
Gary graduated from Quakertown High School and was a retired machinist.
Gary loved all Philadelphia sports, especially the Eagles and the Phillies. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and was a longtime member of the Great Swamp Fish and Game Club.
He will be remembered for his witty sense of humor.
Survivors include two sisters, Susan Mood and her husband, Don; and Kathy Applegate and her husband, Gene; one nephew, Michael Applegate and his wife, Heather; two nieces, Michelle Wanner and her husband, Chris; Ashley Sawyer and her husband, Pat; seven great-nieces and great-nephews; and his beloved cat, Jay.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
WiLLiam (BiLL) d. BRoWn of Perkasie, formerly of Willingboro, NJ., passed away October 29, 2025. He was 87.
Bill was born in Philadelphia and graduated from William Tennant High School in 1956. He graduated from Lafayette College in 1960 with a degree in Electrical Engineering, and went on to form Brown Electric Inc. with his brothers Earl & Bob. Bill and his late wife Ellie spent many happy years on the golf course as members of the Burlington County Country Club and the Rancocas Country Club. He was also a proud member of the Mount Holly Elks Lodge.
He is survived by his daughters
Kimberley Price (Roy Smith), Meredith Brown (Phil Smith), and Jerilyn Welsh (Jim), and his step children Frank Caruso (Cindy), Nicole Caruso, and Andrew ‘Chip’ Caruso. In addition, he is survived by his grandchildren Carly, Connor, Kyle, & Zachary.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
ChaRLes “ChaRLie” R. CoRfieLd, 77, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on November 4th, 2025. Born in Galveston, TX, Charlie was the son of the late Charles A. Phelps and the late Madeline M. (Catino) Corfield.
Charles graduated from Cheltenham High School in 1966.
Charlie enjoyed hunting, fishing, and building and repairing custom fishing rods.
Charlie will be dearly missed by his wife, Lynn, together they shared 25 loving years of marriage; his children, Colleen Saitta and Christina Naugle (spouse Ryan Naugle); his grandchildren, Brody Saitta, Shannon Saitta, Madelyn Naugle, and Connor Naugle; along with his nieces, Lynn Upham and Nancy O’Neill; and nephews, Nick Corfield and Tim Corfield, and his former wife, Charlene Longacre. In addition to his parents, Charlie is predeceased by his brother, John Corfield and his sister, Doris Corfield. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
heLen f. (Rathjens) fouLke of Milford Square, PA, died peacefully at home surrounded by her family. She was 93 years old. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 69 years, Ralph D. Foulke, Sr.
Born in Haycock Township, PA, she was a daughter of the late John and Marie (Raub) Rathjens—both of whom immigrated from Germany.
She is survived by her daughter: Diane Taylor (husband James) and sons: Dean Foulke (late wife Mitzi) and David Foulke (wife Maryann), grandchildren: Jennifer, David, Tara, Ryan, Brendan, Tyler; and seven great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by Dean’s son, Jason Foulke, and wife, Mitzi; sisters: Margaret Latshaw, Jeanette Zerwonka; and brother: Jacob Rathjens.
She and Ralph spent their retirement traveling to 49 states and Europe, spending time with family, and 26 winters at the Oaks Campground in Bushnell, FL, playing at being retired.
At home, Helen was a proud member of the Quakertown Eastern Star Chapter. She loved sharing the vegetables she grew in her garden with family and neigh-
bors, and growing many flowers in her gardens. She also enjoyed making quilts with the West Swamp Mennonite Ladies Knotting group—the quilts they make are sent to people around the world who were in need.
Interment will be in Quakertown Union Cemetery.
Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
Zoe maRie GoReL, 17, of Kintnersville , Pennsylvania, passed away on Saturday, November 1, 2025. She was born on January 1, 2008—a New Year’s blessing.
Zoe was a bright and compassionate young woman whose smile could light up even the darkest days. A senior at Palisades High School, she also attended Upper Bucks Technical School, where she majored in Health Sciences. Driven, talented, and full of promise, Zoe excelled in everything she set her mind to.
Zoe is survived by her loving parents, Kristine and Ron Tyahla, and Zachary Gorel. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her brother, Dylan Gorel and his wife Ally; her stepsiblings Austin, Taylor, and Grace Tyahla. She is also cherished by her grandparents, great-grandmother, many aunts, uncles, cousins, her longterm boyfriend Donavan, extended family members and friends.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
CLaudia miLdRed GRimm, 81, of Perkasie, PA, died on November 1st, 2025. Born in Philadelphia, Claudia was the daughter of the late John Grimm and the late Mildred (Naughton) Grimm). She was also pre-deceased by her brother, John J. Grimm Jr.
Claudia attended Villa Joseph Marie High School and graduated in 1963.
Claudia enjoyed cooking and baking of all kinds and even established her own small catering business. She was also a life-long avid reader, particularly enjoying historical works.
Claudia was happiest when spending time traveling abroad. She had the opportunity to travel throughout North and South America, Europe, and Australia.
Claudia will be dearly missed by her children, Dr. Francis Grimm (Victoria) and Vincent Grimm (Donna); her grandchildren, Francis Grimm Jr, John Grimm, and Juliana Grimm; along with her extended family members and friends.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Betty j haRtman, 93, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on November 14th, 2025. Born in Quakertown, she was the daughter of the late William Trautman and Katie (Rohr) Trautman.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Harvey H. Hartman Jr., a proud Korean War Veteran, with whom she shared 64 years of devoted marriage.
Betty was a graduate of Quakertown High School, Class of 1950.
Betty treasured her close friends and family, and was happiest when surrounded by those she loved.
Betty will be dearly missed by her son, Thomas Hartman; her granddaughters, Katie and Hannah (Brett); her great-granddaughter, Nina; her nephew, Rick Hartenstine; and her extended family and friends.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her son, John C. Hartman, and her sister, Shirley (Trautman) Long, wife of Robert Long. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
naomi e hiLLeGas, 95, of Quakertown, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
Born on December 3, 1929, in Quakertown, she was a daughter of the late Russel and Fema (Schuler) Tarantino. Following her formal education, she entered the workforce as a seamstress for Harvey Clothing Company. She retired after a twenty-five-year plus career. Outside of work, she found great joy in gardening and creating immaculate flowerbeds with hundreds of flowers--her gardens were even a featured part of a local tour. When not tending to her gardens, she could be found baking.
She was a long-time member of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Zion Hill, where she served on the altar guild, and volunteered for hoagie sales, rummage sales, and the funeral committee.
Naomi will be lovingly remembered by her husband of seventy-six years: Paul W. Hillegas, to whom she wed on June 5, 1949; sons: Barry Hillegas (Diane) and Rodney Hillegas; daughter: Linda Robinson (Robert); sister: Marie Bentley; grandchildren: Kimberly, Heather, Seth, Leah, Justin, and Brielle; and great-grandchildren: Tanner, Alexandra, and Haisley. Interment will be in Zion Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Naomi’s memory, to Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2966 Old Bethlehem Pike, Zionhill, PA 18981.
Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
john “hutZ” hutZayLuk jR. died on Nov. 3, 2025, following a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.
He was married to Deborah (Sandt) Hutzayluk for 53 years.
Born in Allentown, John was a son of the late Catherine and John Hutzayluk. He was a 1966 graduate of Dieruff High School in Allentown.
In addition to his wife Debbie, he is survived by his daughter Wendi, wife of David LeBourgeois, and grandchildren Heather and Caleb LeBourgeois. Other survivors include his sister Irene, wife of Randy Kraft; brother Joseph Hutzayluk and his wife Pamela, and Debbie’s brother Jeff Sandt. He also is survived by seven nieces and nephews.
Many thanks to his caregiver, Will Riegel, in addition to the caregivers from Family Caregivers, and Visiting Angels, who helped care for John. We also thank Fox Rehab therapists who kept him strong.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
eRWin david "eRv" kauCheR, 58, of Quakertown, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at his home.
Born on October 3, 1967, in Sellersville, he was a son of Erwin P. and Doris S. (Sulzbach) Kaucher.
Erv found joy in hunting and fishing with his brother, landscaping, watching football and the Phillies, NASCAR, and spending time with his wife, Maria, and their beloved dog, Jeffrey. He fondly referred to his home has “his retreat.” In his younger years, he also enjoyed traveling.
He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents: David W. and Sybella Sulzbach; paternal grandparents: Erwin K. and Elizabeth Kaucher; and his fatherin-law: Antonio Saldaña.
In addition to his parents, Erv will be lovingly remembered by his wife of thirty-five years: Maria (Saldaña) Kaucher, to whom he wed on July 4, 1990, in Jamaica; brother: Scott W. Kaucher and his wife, Robin; and mother-in-law: Luisa Saldaña.
Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
~Obituaries~
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made—in Erv’s name—to the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation, P.O. Box 620669, Charlotte, NC 28262.
meRedith mooRe Leaman jR , known as Lee, passed away on November 13, 2025. Born on October 15, 1945, in Takoma Park, Maryland. A veteran of the United States Coast Guard, an Aerographers Mate Second Class, Lee had a love for the water.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Karen Leaman; his daughter, Mickie Barczak, wife of Tom Barczak; and his brother, Robert Leaman.
He is survived by his children: Lisa Inglis (Daniel), Sandi Alter (Greg), Lynn Engen (Christopher), and Joseph Leaman. He is also survived by his siblings: William Leaman, Richard Leaman, Kathryn Hurley, Meredee Ayers, and Patricia Blanton.
He was the cherished grandfather of Lauren Canonico (Michael), Renee Barczak, TJ Barczak, Sophia Inglis, Matthew Inglis, Nicholas Alter, Anthony Alter, Connor Engen, and Haley Engen; and great-grandfather to Guinevere. He also leaves behind many treasured inlaws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
antonia "toni" mattioLa, 78, of Fountain Hill, passed away on October 23, 2025. She was born in Bridgeport on July 6, 1947 to the late Anthony Mattiola and Margaret (DeStefano) Markwell.
Toni had a vibrant spirit and was a petite powerhouse with a commanding presence. She found joy in the bright lights and excitement of Atlantic City. She loved spending her day shopping or cooking for her family.
Toni took pride in keeping a beautiful home and looking her best.
Antonia is survived by her son Marc Cantor (Karen); son-in-law Ray; sisters Vicki Kealy and Leah Baker (Stan); grandchildren Ethan, Luke, and Lincoln; 6 nieces & nephews; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; daughter Natalie Aquino; and brother Anthony Mattiola.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Helen G. McGowan, 97, of Coopersburg, formerly of Congers, NY, died on November 10, 2025, at home. Born in Brooklyn, she was the daughter of the late James Gleason and Stella (Robinson) Gleason. In addition to her parents, Helen was predeceased by her daughter, Robin (McGowan) Uhl.
While living in Rockland County, Helen was an active volunteer in her community.
Helen was happiest when surrounded by her granddaughters and great-grandchildren, and she was blessed to enjoy time with her great-great-grandchildren as well. She loved dinners out and traveling with her friends. She also enjoyed her puzzle books—there wasn’t a New York Times crossword she couldn’t complete.
She is survived by her granddaughters, Meegan (Uhl) Dorsey and Mara (Uhl) Ryan; her son-in-law, Terry Uhl; her great-grandchildren, Hunter [Leah] Dorsey, Hanna [Derek] (Dorsey) Dombrowski, Emma Ryan, and Cooper Ryan; and three great-great-grandchildren. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
yvonne emiLy miLLeR, 88, of Quakertown passed away on November 6, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospital--Upper Bucks Campus.
Born on October 26, 1937, in Quakertown, PA, she was the daughter of
the late Jesse George and Edith (Hartman) Gulden.
A graduate of Quakertown High School’s Class of 1955, she went on to enter the workforce. Yvonne worked at Harvey’s Pants Factory, The Mill Store, and was also a fixture at the Q-Mart where she ran her own odds and ends stand on the weekends.
She found joy in spending time with ani mals, cheering for the Eagles and Phillies, visiting the Jersey Shore with her children and grandchildren (she always had a fun ny story to tell about her grandchildren). Yvonne also played the accordion in the band, The Macabees.
In addition to her parents, she is preced ed in death by her husband of fifty-eight years: Leonard L. Miller, who passed away in 2014; a son: Kenneth J. Miller; and a granddaughter: Lori Miller.
Yvonne will be lovingly remembered by her son: Gary L. Miller (Christine); daughter: Donna M. Grabenstetter (Richard); brother: Jere Gulden (Dorene); grandchildren: Melissa, David, Cheryl, Ricky, Kathy, and Sean; great-grandchil dren: Xavier, Ariel, Haley, Richard IV, Darien, Duke, and Rosalee, as well as nieces and nephews.
Interment will be in St. Peter's Tohickon Union Cemetery.
Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made—in Yvonne’s memory—to Bucks County SPCA, 60 Reservoir Road, Quakertown, PA 18951 or to the Quakertown Police K-9 Unit, 35 N. Third Street, Quakertown, PA 18951.
Ray n. PoPoWitZ, 80, of Coopersburg, PA, died on November 6, 2025. Born in Allentown, PA, Ray was the son of the late Paul Popowitz and the late Lorraine (Weller) Decker.
Ray graduated from Quakertown High School in 1963.
Ray had many passions, including deer hunting, NASCAR, and working on cars. Whether in the garage or outdoors, he found joy in staying hands-on and connected to the things he loved. He was also a longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church, where he found community and comfort.
Ray will be deeply missed by his wife, Janet; his children, Glen and Lisa (David); his grandchildren, Cody, Drew, and Madison; and his great-granddaughter, Kinlee; his brother, Ronald; along with his extended family members and friends. In addition to his parents, Ray is predeceased by his daughter, Sherry (Randy) and his brother, Roger.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
miCheLLe ann RoLoson, 61, of Quakertown, passed away at home on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, surrounded by her family.
Born on January 22, 1964, in Waterloo, New York, she was the daughter of Thomas and Marian (Gibbs) Gross.
Following her education, Michelle went on to work as a store manager for Ames, Bottom Dollar, Grants, and Rite Aid, retiring on August 31, 2025.
Outside of work Michelle enjoyed gardening and growing flowers, as well as crafting ceramics. She also enjoyed spending time with her friends, but above all, she loved to spend time with her grandchildren.
She belonged to St. Isidore's Roman Catholic Parish, Quakertown.
Michelle will be lovingly remembered by her husband: Richard; son: Anthony Gross; daughters: Angela Roloson, Rachel Griffith, and JoAnn Clay; broth-
Locally & Family Owned & Operated
Andrew J. Stout Michael B. Schmauder President & Funeral Director Supervisor & Funeral Director
ers: Thomas Gross, Michael Gross, and Jody Gross; and grandchildren: Myarose, Jase, Abigail, Kaelyn, and Paige.
Service details are forthcoming.
Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
PauL j. Rush, 60, of Quakertown died October 28, 2025 in his home.
Born in Quakertown, Pa on November 9, 1964 he was the son of the late Kermit A. & Carolyn (Warnke) Rush.
He was employed in the construction industry.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two brothers David & Robert.
Paul is survived by three sisters Susan Burrows and her husband Forrest, Karen Parke, and Donna Rush, a sister-in-law Lisa Rush.
Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. The C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. Quakertown is in charge of the arrangements.
BaRBaRa (Posey) seideR, a longtime resident of Willow Grove, PA and recently of Richlandtown, passed away Friday, November 7, 2025. She was 89 years old.
Barbara was born in Philadelphia and was a 1956 graduate of Abington High School, where she was a standout athlete in field hockey and basketball. She went on to play basketball for Shelton College, Ringwood, NJ. It was in college she met and married the late Carl J. Seider, who preceded her in death.
Barbara is survived by her children Pamela Nebgen (Don) and Christopher J Seider (Heidi). Beloved grandchildren Kayla Bryant (Chase), Alyssa Seider (Cody), Qin Nebgen (Walker), Landon Seider and Addison Seider.
Barbara will forever be remembered for her love of animals (Sadie, Tessie, Coco, Teddy, Heidi, Sam and Miss Kitty) and her remarkable gift for making friends wherever life took her.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
saLLy annette sneLLman, 83, of Quakertown, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at Hidden Meadows on the Ridge in Sellersville, PA.
Born on November 30, 1941, in McCall, South Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Walter Raymond and Flossie Mae (Cribb) Cox.
A graduate of Red Springs High School’s Class of 1960, she would go on to marry her husband, Leonard, less than a year later and relocate to Pennsylvania.
Sally was a Penn State Master Gardener, a member of Keystone Quilters, a very talented seamstress, and an avid birdwatcher.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of fifty-nine years: Leonard A. Snellman, who passed away in 2020; her brothers; Carson Cox, Merrell Cox, Laverne Cox, Dewel Cox, Marvin Cox, and sister; Margaret Passwater (affectionately known as Bobbie); and a grandson, Cory Coons.
Sally will be lovingly remembered by her daughter: Leslie Coons (Leonard); son: Timothy Snellman (Christine); grandsons: Leonard Coons III and Cody Coons; great-granddaughter: Adalynn Coons; as well as her many nieces and nephews.
Sally will be interred alongside her husband in Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. Services will be private.
Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
Lois e. stevens, 87, of Hellertown and formerly of Quakertown, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 20, 2025.
Born on January 24, 1938, in Penllyn, PA, she was the daughter of the late Clifford and Mildred E. (Dillon) Jennings.
A graduate of Upper Moreland High School’s Class of 1955, she went on to earn an Associate’s degree from Bucks County Community College in 1986.
Lois found joy in gardening, interior painting, reading, and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was also dedicated to preserving the Richlandtown One-room Schoolhouse.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband: Victor W. Stevens, who passed away on January 20, 2024; one son: Darren C. Stevens, who passed away on August 30, 1999; and her brother: John “Jack” Jennings.
Lois will be lovingly remembered by her three sons: Daryll Stevens, Mark Stevens (Caroline), and Victor W. Stevens, Jr. (Kelli); one daughter: Rebecca Kolbe (Richard); ten grandchildren: Patrick, Vanessa, Taylor, Dillon, Kelso, Hannah, Jonathan, Avery, Athena, Everest, Indira; five great-grandchildren: Emma, Evelyn, Davis, Brooks, and Lucia; and nieces and nephews.
Services will be private.
Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
RiChaRd john WatanaBe, age 84, died of kidney failure on November 4, 2025, after choosing to discontinue dialysis.
He is survived by his loving wife: Linda; nieces: Marigene Little (Tom), Jamie Sklaney (Jeff), and Amy Watanabe (John); and nephews: Richard Morgan (Irene) and Jason Nixon (Janessa) and their children.
Dick grew up in Glenside where he graduated from Cheltenham High School.
He was a life member of the Glenside Fire Company and proudly served in the Army National Guard.
He worked for Buten Paints for 20 years, rising to the position of Assistant Supervisor of Stores before leaving to purchase Emmaus Beverages. After selling the company, he worked part-time for the Quakertown School District delivering food to various schools.
Linda and Dick enjoyed 47 years of living on their wooded property in East Rockhill Township and sharing it with a total of 10 beloved dogs. They downsized to a home in Quakertown in 2024.
Dick was a loyal Eagles fan, collector, and car buff. He will be missed.
Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
jeffRey "jeff" david WoLfGanG, 44, of Gilbertsville, passed away in an accident on November 4, 2025. He was born in Sellersville, PA on July 19, 1981 to David and Barbara (Henry) Wolfgang. Jeff was engaged to Nicole Tsirlemes and the two were expecting their first child together. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, tak-
ing in nature, camping, and hiking. Jeff loved gardening, baking, and trying out new recipes. He also loved skateboarding, music was very influential for him, and he was big into writing poetry.
Jeff is survived by fiance Nicole; his parents David and Barbara; grandmother Jane Henry; son Jack Wolfgang; soon to be born baby girl Willow; sisters Amy Calcagno (Chris) and Amanda Young (Dave); nieces Julia, Lauren, & Emily Calcagno and Helena Young; nephew Liam Young; and many other loving fam ily and friends.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
maRy yufeR, 66, of Quakertown, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 4th, surrounded by her family. She was born on January 24th, 1959, at Chestnut Hill Hospital and grew up in Ambler. She was the youngest of three children. Mary is survived by her brother Robert; son Brian; daughter Jessica (Lee); and daughter-in-law Elizabeth (John). She was preceded in death by her parents, Rebecca and Charles; her sister, Marlene; her son, Joshua and grandsons Jordan and Joseph.
thing — usually without needing duct tape. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
, 80, of Quakertown, passed away on Friday, October 31, 2025 at Fellowship Community in Whitehall.
Born on July 26, 1945, in Harleysville, he was a son of the late Robert Young and Elizabeth (Hedrick)
A graduate of Souderton High School
Robert worked as a Lineman for Perkasie Borough for 35 years.
He enjoyed splitting fire wood and driving his John Deere tractors.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 37 years: Carol Ann (Holzemer) Ziegler, who died in 2009; and his brother, Barry Ziegler.
Mary was a proud Nana to five grandchildren — Hailey, Joshua, Jacob, Ryan, and Brielle — all of whom she adored beyond measure.
A lover of the outdoors, Mary took great pride in her gardens and her Koi pond. Mary was known for her honesty, wisdom, and sense of humor. She was a “jack of all trades” who could fix almost any-
Robert will be remembered and missed by his three children: Jon, Jason and Johanna Ziegler, sisters Sandy Godshall, Doris Harkness and Barbara Mast, and his five grandchildren Kaylin, Keera, Emily, Zechariah and Russell.
Services will be announced at a later date.
Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
Ponderings by Palma
BY PALMA MOYER, RN
Service and a Smile
Go a Long Way
A wise man once said "Ask not what your country can do for you but what can you do for your country." It seems that this could be applied to life. What makes life worth living? Is it this acquisition of great wealth? Is it fame? Wealth and money cannot buy happiness, because it seems that those who have wealth never have enough, famous people are often forgotten with time. So, what make a person happy? I think it is the knowledge that we are here with a purpose to know love and serve God. This or as some would say our higher power,
gives us the ability to love one another and try to be kind and helpful to all we meet, this brings a sense of pleasure and self confidence that we are important to the world, and all the kindness we show is reflected back to us. This can give a sense of purpose and a feeling that we are important and worthwhile. Even if you are homeless, broke, and struggling helping someone else can give a sense of selfworth. I suggest if you are lonely alone, and struggling to reach out to someone else who is in need and see if you make a difference in your life and theirs.
~ as always, Palma moyer, rN
Palma is a 1957 graduate of temPle uNiversity HosPital scHool of NursiNg sHe sHares Her exPerieNces aNd PersPectives oN NursiNg aNd oN life sHe eNJoys HeariNg from you at doNtHelPmemoyer@aol com
Trumbauersville Veterans Wall of Honor Nearing Completion
Dozens turned out Saturday, November 22 to mark the preliminary presentation of the Wall of Honor in Trumbauersville's Veterans Park. Paul Gerhart, Commander of the John Rivers Memorial VFW Post 11322, presided over the service. Members of American Legion Post 242 provided their Color Guard, a bugler who played Taps, and Honor Guard with the VFW.
The memorial wall is a privately funded project orchestrated by Gerhart and still a work in progress as other elements will be added in the coming months.
Says Gerhart, “There will be plaques that will say who donated towards this project. As a strong community I feel it in my heart that we can make this a reality. My vision for this project is nearing completion.”
Donations are still being accepted and can be sent to Paul Gerhart, Jr. 16 South Hellertown Ave. Quakertown, PA 18951. A complete list of generous community members and businesses featured on the plaques will be shared in a future story at the Wall of Honor’s official inauguration when complete.
(above) Navy Veteran and past Trumbauersville Borough Secretary, Larry Smock, along with Army Veteran and current Borough Councilman, Michael George, were honored to raise the POW-MIA flag at the Wall of Honor at Trumbauersville's Veterans Park. (below) American Legion Post 242 Honor Guard members, Paul Gerhart, and current members of Borough Council showcase the POW-MIA plaque that will be permanently installed at the Memorial as work continues to complete the project.
American Legion Post 242 December 2025 Update
Our joint effort with other area posts and State Representatives office organizing and presenting a Veteran’s Day program over at Palisades High School. The three Upper Bucks Schools always do a fine job of hosting the event and making those veterans present welcome. I have attended many such programs and I always marvel at the enthusiasm of the joint classmates (students in the same grade from all three major schools along with any private schools choosing to attend). As a veteran returning home from overseas in uniform after serving honorably in the Army in 1967, I thank all involved for their honoring what I and my fellow veterans of that era sacrificed for our beloved country.
our veterans, and our active duty troops.
Our organization is busy signing up new members at different venues in Upper Bucks. So far this year we have signed up over 30 new members for the Post itself along with new members for the Auxiliary and “The Sons”. It is great to see the continued interest in this organization and what we do for our community. Once again, we will be supporting our youth,
Many have signed up for their membership for 2025/26 and we thank you for it. The membership is coming along well. Our two drawings involving children and veterans are a continued success. Our special Friday night dinners are also successful and a true bargain for ALL the community. We have also initiated several “Lunch and Information” meetings. The last such meeting was such a huge success that we are planning to have another get together. If you are a veteran and have a question on your benefits or health needs, please join us for a free lunch and a program by the proper officials to answer or research your questions. We will have notification on our electronic sign and in local publications.
Remember during this Thanksgiving Season and Christmas season to “Thank a Vet for the Ultimate Service to our Country they have given”. Also keep those currently serving in your deepest thoughts and prayers.
~ For God and Country, Dick Helm
Think
December in the Garden
Even though winter is soon upon us there are still gardening tasks to be done. If you plan to decorate with natural elements for the holidays, shrubs and trees such as Cherry Laurel, Cotoneaster, Red-twig Dogwood, Arborvitae, Holly, Magnolia and Evergreens can be cut in December. It is not a good time to prune spring blooming plants as they have already set buds. Dead or diseased branches can be cut anytime. Follow proper pruning techniques.
A great guide to pruning times and techniques is Penn State’s ‘Pruning Ornamental Plants’: http://goo.gl/lVAOgv.
When the first heavy snow arrives (hopefully not yet!) remove heavy snow from shrub and tree branches. Use a broom or shovel handle to gently shake the snow off.
If you plan to purchase a live, balled tree for the holidays make sure to plan. Before the ground freezes dig the hole where you plan to plant the tree. A live tree should not be in the home environment for more than 10 days. Store the tree in an unheated garage for a few days to acclimate the tree to its new environment before planting. What do you do with your live, cut tree after the holiday? You have many options:
• Place it out in your yard (still in its holder) and watch the birds enjoy perching on the branches. Hang homemade bird seed treats.
• You can choose to recycle it if your township or Borough offers that service.
• Contact a local goat farm-goats will love it.
Here is a recipe for a homemade Bird Treat. The kids will love to help! Empty one package of unflavored gelatin into a bowl with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Let sit for 1 minute. Add 1/3 cup of boiling water and stir until the gelatin dissolves. Add 2 cups of bird seed and mix thoroughly. Use greased muffin cups or lined cardboard egg cartons as molds. Fill the molds. Add a piece of string or ribbon for hanging. Cool in the refrigerator for a few hours. After seed cakes are set, remove from the refrigerator and bring to room temperature. Unmold and hang where you can enjoy the birds. No ribbon is needed if you prefer to insert into suet holders.
An outside holiday container gardening can help take the drabness out of a cold day. Any outside durable container
can work. The basic rules of ‘thriller’, ‘filler’ and spiller’ hold true even with winter designs. Using your natural elements begin with the ‘thriller’ by placing it near the back of the container. The ‘thriller’ should be at least 2 ½ times the height of your container. A live small evergreen or branches such as holly or evergreen work well. Inanimate objects such as birch logs and snow measuring sticks add height and a touch of whimsy. Branches like holly with berries, Red-twig
Dogwood or Winterberry make excellent ‘fillers’ with color. Soft evergreens like arborvitae and magnolia can be placed to drape over the side of the container. Add natural elements such as pinecones, dried hydrangea blooms (natural or sprayed) or seed pods for texture. Decorative items such as birds, ornaments and ribbon can help define your personal style. Light it up! Many varieties of battery-operated lights are available. If you need inspiration gardening magazines and internet sites are a good resource. If your garden does not yield natural elements try all artificial. It can be just as beautiful. Have fun! .
Our Home Garden Hotline is open Monday thru Friday, 9-12 and 1-4, however Penn State is closed for the holidays between December 24th and January 4th. Our office is often being staffed in person on Thursday between 1 and 4. Please call before visiting. 267-483-2020 Penn State Extension Bucks County, 576 Penns Park Rd, Newtown, PA 18940 email: Bucksmg@psu.edu
Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!
Earnings for All Seasons
While nature offers four seasons, Wall Street offers only one – four times a year. It’s called “earnings season,” and it can move the markets. So, what is earnings season and why is it important?
Earnings season is the month of the year that follows each calendar quarterend month (i.e., January, April, July, and October). It is the time during which many public companies release quarterly earnings reports. Some public companies report earnings at other times during the year, but many are reported on the calendar year that ends December 31.
Reported Earnings
To understand the importance of earnings, we need to remember that the value of a company can be tied to the amount of money it earns. Some companies don’t have earnings, and they are valued based on their potential rather than their current earnings.1
Wall Street analysts maintain a close pulse on a company’s quarterly report to help estimate future earnings. For example, these estimates may guide investors in determining an appropriate price for a company’s stock. Remember, though, a company is not permitted to discuss interim earnings with select individuals; earnings reports must be
content is developed from sources believed
disseminated publicly to level the playing field for all investors.2
An Inside Look
When an earnings report is released, it tells the market two things.
First, it offers an insight into how the company is performing and what its prospects may look like over the near term.2
And second, the report can serve as a bellwether for similar companies that still have not reported. For instance, if the earnings of a leading retailer are strong, it may offer an insight into the earnings of other retailers as well as other companies that similarly benefit from higher consumer spending.
What Time?
Earnings reports are generally released when the market is closed in order to provide market participants adequate time to digest the results. Earnings reports may move markets. If earnings diverge from the expectations of professional investors and traders, then price swings –up or down – may be significant. Such a divergence is referred to as an “earnings surprise.”
If you are a “buy-and-hold” investor and feel confident in a company’s long-term prospects, earnings season may mean little
be providing
to you, since short-term results may not impact your long-term outlook. However, earnings reports can be meaningful if an earnings shortfall reflects a structural problem within a business or represents the continuation of a downward trend in earnings.
1. Past Performance does not guarantee future results. KeeP in mind that the return and PrinciPal value of
or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase
Milford Cares
Back when I was in High School, I was skating on what was known as Rush’s Pond along the Unami Creek off of Mill Pond Road. A neighbor, Jake Wimmer, was skating there also. Thus, I was exposed to the group of hunters that wanted to form a club quickly to attend meetings in the township that discussion of bans on hunting was taking place. Pheasant hunting drew a lot of “Out of Area Hunters.” There were many incidents of safety zone violations by these hunters who accessed the area via the turnpike and major highway routes. I previously wrote articles on our club history and will not repeat myself. This article has to deal with the changes that I have seen and how I am proud to be a lifelong member of this organization.
ship of member Phil Fachet. The range was for sighting in purposes in prepara
tion for hunting. Phil had an interest in teaching youth the correct and safe way of firearm usage and initiated the formation of a sub-organized shooting club for them. Thus, I saw the first change from a club organized for hunting and fishing concerns to that of family participation.
This past Saturday (November 15, 2025) my wife and I attended a well attended “Family Fun Day and Shoot.” Year’s back we would have a Spring & Fall Shoot and it did not include family in its title. Using the old saying, “A family that does things together—stays together”, our club has transitioned to be a family-oriented group of outdoor enthusiasts.
The dues are much more than when we started and met in a garage. But we offer
as outlined above. Truly under the leadership of the past few presidents we have preserved the almost 100 acres, built a social hall and meeting facility, build habitat bird houses for bluebirds (children’s project), and oriented our activities around the whole family.
A few years back (2017) we had a few turkeys left over from a fall “shoot” and a member, Jack Macarone, suggested that we asked for “the fixins” from members and give these turkeys to needy families in the area. Since Jack’s passing his nephew, Ryan Bremmer has taken the idea and turned it into our program, “Milford Cares.” Our large clubhouse is loaded on many tables with vegetables and the makings of a beautiful “Thanks Giving” meal. One of the joys is delivering these bags of food to those truly in need. Again, on this Saturday past, I was proud to see many of the shooters “Giving Back” the turkeys they just won to this program! There is also a statewide program where
club as noisy neighbors, people out to kill animals, and trespass on private property. Milford Fish and Game was formed to preserve our right to hunt amidst this type of feelings about hunters and has been steadfast in promoting safety and most important “Family” in its growth. Our current president Chuck Hotter is a person of very high character and benevolence. He is the type of person who instills in others their need to serve. Milford Twp. Fish, Game, and Forestry Association since its inception in those wonderful years back in the 1960’s has grown into a real asset to our community, a preservation of forested land in the area, and most of all a place where a family can share moments together (away from the electronics) in the outdoor fresh air and environment for many years to come.
Yes, “Milford Cares” and I as a member since its inception, am very proud to say I am a member of this fine organization. Come visit us and consider beingcated on Canary Road just off John Fries highway (Route 663) in Milford Twp.
On November 15th, members of John Rivers Memorial VFW Post 11322 and American Legion Post 242 Quakertown gathered at the War Memorial in Quakertown to dedicate an empty POW-MIA Chair of Honor as a solemn tribute to prisoners of war and those missing in action. The chair is a reminder that they are not forgotten and there will always be a place for them. PA State Rep. Craig Staats was on hand to say a few words and present certificates to the VFW and American Legion. The War Memorial is located in Memorial Park, 600 W. Mill Street in Quakertown. photo by michele buono
Candles Candy Cane Caroling
Decorate Festive
Snowman Star
Stockings
Wreath
Xmas Tree
Yule Log
First, I’d like to give a shout out to two of my friends at Belle Terrace nursing home. A special Hi to my friends John and Diane. They are the first two people I see when I go to visit. John carts me around on his wheel chair. He even has a special pair of pants on days I visit. He calls it his “dog pants.” Now I’d like to explain the picture. Look at the size of my bowl. My human thinks if she gives me a small bowl and fills it up that I will be stupid enough to think I’m getting more than Maisie has. I know I’m not. In fact, it’s her way of giving me less and thinking I won’t notice. Humans! ~ Love Peanut
The answers to the puzzles on this page are found elsewhere in this issue. Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.
"What I don’t like about office Christmas parties is looking for a job the next day." - Phyllis Diller
Training: Where to Start?
If training is the most important and rewarding thing you can do for your dog, where and how should you start?
Use positive reinforcement techniques
The most effective method for training a dog is using positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is adding a reward (treat, toy & petting) for good behavior, rather than punishing bad behavior.
Find the right reward.
Some dogs are food motivated, and will respond very enthusiastically to any sort of treat as a reward. Others are often pickier needing a higher value reward. Soft chewy treats are preferred to hard crunchy ones.
Consistency is key.
Consistency, is incredibly important to always use the same word and even the same kind of intonation when asking them to do something. Including the entire family. If you never let the dog on the couch, but your kids do, your pup will just end up confused.
Train little and often.
Short (five minutes) training sessions repeated throughout the day are more effective than longer ones.
Dogs often struggle to generalizing commands to other places or situations (i.e. understanding that asking for a sit at home is the same thing as a sit on a busy street), so it's useful to repeat your training sessions in multiple locations
with different people and varying levels of distraction so that you pop learns to respond correctly to the same command all the time.
Build up in stages.
Try breaking behaviors down into smaller parts. In the beginning, if teaching “recall” praise and reward for one step towards you. It’ll be easier to add steps and build up to racing across the room to you.
Make it fun!
Training should be fun for you and your dog! Keep it positive, try mixing things up to keep it interesting? Incorporate short play sessions in between your training repetitions. Consider teaching tricks in addition to manners. It’s more fun seeing a dog rolling over than for a plain old sit.
Daily training routine.
Incorporate training into your daily routine. Ask you pup to sit for everything, dinner, going outside, play or petting. Use your hands.
Dogs respond better to hand signals than verbal commands. First teach the visual signals then add the verbal later. Dogs don’t understand language the same way we do.
Research trainers
Ask how they train? Ask to observe a class. Read their reviews!
submitted by marioN c o’Neil cPdt-ka, ctdi, owNer aNd iNstructor for molasses creek dog traiNiNg llc, QuakertowN aNd traiNer for ruNaway farm Pet HosPital, PeNNsburg sHe caN be reacHed at molassescreek@verizoN Net
The Local Real
Estate Market & Community:
Why We’re Grateful This Holiday
As we enter the holiday season, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for this special place we call home. The Upper Bucks and Quakertown area isn’t just a housing market—it’s a true community of hardworking people, caring neighbors, and shared hometown pride.
A Quick Look at Our Local Real Estate Market
The market remains active, with steady buyer interest and continued demand for well-priced homes in our area. Between our charming in-town streets, peaceful country settings, and convenient access to major routes like 309 and the Turnpike, Quakertown continues to draw both local buyers and newcomers discovering our community for the first time.
Inventory remains modest, which means well-maintained, move-in-ready properties still draw strong attention. If you’ve been thinking about selling in the next 6–12 months, this winter may be a valuable time to start planning.
But beyond prices, comps, and closing dates—this time of year reminds us that home is more than a structure… it’s about people.
Supporting Our Neighbors: Quakertown Food Pantry
This season, the Quakertown Food Pantry is serving over 500 local families, including seniors, working families,
Season
single-parent households, veterans, and others who could use a little help this year. The need is real—but so is the generosity of this community.
5 Ways You Can Help Fill Tables this Holiday Season
Donate non-perishable food
Canned vegetables, peanut butter, pasta, rice, holiday staples—every item matters. Make a monetary donation. Food Pantries can stretch every dollar into multiple meals through bulk purchasing. Volunteer your time
Sorting, bagging, distribution days — an hour or two makes a huge impact. Start a mini food drive with friends or coworkers
Even a small group effort can yield dozens of meals.
Spread the word
Share pantry information on social media, in local groups, or by word of mouth. Community Is the Heart of Real Estate
Whether you're buying, selling, investing, or simply living here—the value of a strong, caring community is priceless. This holiday season, let’s make sure every table is full and every family feels supported. Together, we make this place more than a market—we make it home. If you’d like info about the local market, are curious about your home’s value, or want help connecting with volunteer or donation options, I’m always here and happy to chat.
Warm holiday wishes to you and yours!. sue deily is a regular coNtributor to ubfP. sHe caN be reacHed at Homes@suedeily com
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New Vitae Wellness Recognizes Adele Lemak for 30 Years of Service
New Vitae Wellness and Recovery is proud to recognize Adele Lemak, Office Manager at the organization’s Recovery Center, for 30 years of dedicated service helping others live their best lives through compassionate care and community connection.
Lemak joined New Vitae in 1995 as a Case Manager at Quakertown House and has since served in multiple leadership roles, including Director of Social Services at both Quakertown House and Mount Trexler Manor before stepping into her current position.
“Adele is one of a kind,” said Judith O. Yanacek, President and CEO of New Vitae Wellness and Recovery. “We have weathered storms and challenges together, and Adele has always helped us rise out of them. She’s reliable, dependable, and an incredible resource for staff. I’ve never seen her drop a ball. Adele trains up the next generation and uses her deep knowledge to guide decisions across the organization.”
Over the years, Lemak has become a trusted expert in government entitlement programs and credentialing, helping countless program members navigate complex systems that impact their care. She has also mentored many staff who have advanced into leadership roles.
Reflecting on her time with New Vitae, Lemak said, “The family atmosphere, coworkers, leaders, feeling valued, and knowing that what I do helps othersthat’s what’s kept me here for 30 years.”
Donna and Adam Devlin, who first met Adele during her early days with New Vitae, added, “We remember clearly the day we interviewed Adele. It’s amazing that 30 years have passed since then. She has been one of the most compassionate,
knowledgeable, and dedicated staff members all these years and continues to be in her role with the Recovery Center. We are very fortunate and appreciative to have Adele working with us.”
Lemak has been recognized as Employee of the Year and Employee of the Month multiple times, and in 2020 she received a Recognition of Outstanding Service to the Community from Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick.
After three decades of dedication, leadership, and laughter, Adele continues to embody the heart of New Vitae’s mission—helping others live their best lives with compassion, connection, and community.
Congratulations, Adele, and thank you for your years of dedicated service. About New Vitae Wellness and Recovery
New Vitae Wellness and Recovery provides integrated, trauma-informed, and individualized residential and behavioralhealth supports for adults. With programs serving residents in Bucks, Lehigh, and Philadelphia Counties, New Vitae offers housing and clinical services designed to promote recovery, belonging, and personal growth. For more information, visit www.newvitaewellness.com.
“Christmas sweaters are only acceptable as a cry for help.” - Andy Borowitz
QCSD Superintendent Friedman Wins PA Education Innovative
School leaders from across Pennsylvania gathered in the Pocono Mountains recently to celebrate innovation and excellence in education at the 2025 PASA-PSBA School Leadership Conference.
The Quakertown Community School District is proud to congratulate Superintendent of Schools, Matthew Friedman, Ed.D., recipient of the 2025 Pennsylvania School Boards Association Innovative Leader Award. Dr. Friedman was recognized on Sunday, October 19, for championing a powerful culture shift in how students, educators, and the community approach learning and career readiness.
Rather than launching a top-down initiative, Dr. Friedman inspired a districtwide conversation—beginning in kindergarten—about what brings students energy, what challenges them, and what makes learning meaningful. By integrating RIASEC and career language into daily instruction, he has empowered students to understand their strengths and interests and use that self-knowledge to guide their academic and career pathways.
Now in its third year, this work has become a cornerstone of the district’s culture: students use their RIASEC themes
Leader Award
to shape their learning journeys, educators design instruction that reflects students’ strengths, and the entire community embraces self-discovery as a vital part of education. Dr. Friedman’s leadership stands out not only for its vision but also for its empathy—anchored in seeing, valuing, and empowering every student.
The PASA-PSBA School Leadership Conference is Pennsylvania’s premier gathering for school leaders, offering professional development, networking opportunities, and the celebration of outstanding contributions to public education. For more information, visit paschoolleaders.org.
About PSBA: Founded as the nation’s first school board association, PSBA has provided services, advocacy, and counsel to inform and engage Pennsylvania’s local education leaders for 130 years. Representing more than 4,500 school directors—with voluntary membership encompassing nearly 100% of school entities statewide—PSBA amplifies the collective voice of its members, advocates, and partners to champion exceptional public education for Pennsylvania’s students.
“The Little Drummer Boy” is a song that just never made sense to me.
Maybe it’s because of my general lack of natural rhythm, but I can’t imagine a little kid playing the drums while Mary and Joseph are trying to rock the baby Jesus asleep. It would seem abrupt, unwelcome, and maybe even a little insulting.
At least, that’s how my more reserved nature would react. But the story isn’t about me, but about the world.
Because what if there really was a little drummer boy? I don’t know. But I can’t say for certain that there wasn’t. After all, drums have been around for a long time, and when played well, the rhythm can help people celebrate, mourn, and even give honor to a King.
And I guess that’s the message of the little drummer boy all along… he didn’t have much to give, he was a poor boy too, but what he had, he gave it his all…
Because he knew that this other little boy deserved the best from him. Because this other little boy wasn’t just like him, but was also God with us.
As we come into the Christmas season, singing along to the radio, caroling in the car, lighting luminaries on sidewalks, I hope that we can learn from this little drummer boy, and give our best to the newborn King, whatever that best may be. It may take us out of our comfort zones, and other people’s joy may feel a little jarring, but however we can take part in celebrating what the birth of Christ meant for the world, I hope we do so well.
But just as drums can be rather loud or jarring, I think our own celebration is meant to be noticed by others as they are blessed by it. Maybe that is through the food we make for those who need a meal. Maybe it’s the lights we put up that bring a moment of joy to a season that is terribly difficult for some. Or perhaps it’s through singing “joy to the world” on an otherwise silent night.
May you all have a very merry
Christmas. May you be drawn to the joy of the true story of the birth of Jesus, but may you also be drawn to consider the fictional story of the little drummer boy; someone who knew that Jesus was like
him, but also not like him, and from that knowledge, gave Jesus Christ his best.
Blessings to you.
JoN baumaN is tHe
Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship
Bible Baptist Church Meets at HIghland Park Dining Hall 415 Highland Park Road Sellersville, PA 18960 484-523-3333 www.biblebaptistcares.org
Pastor: Tom Harris
Bible Study Hour 9:30 am, Morning Worship 10:30 am, Services interpreted for the deaf
Christ Church United Church of Christ 101 N. Main Street Trumbauersville, PA 18970 215-538-0142
christchurch10@verizon.net www.christchurchisalive.org
Pastor: David Heckler
A friendly, welcoming church. Change fear into hope, doubt into faith. God is calling. Join us at 11am Sunday. Halleleujah! Christ’s Lutheran Church 218 East Broad Street Trumbauersville, PA 18970 215-536-3193
christselca@verizon.net www.christslutheran.com
9:00am Worship, 10:15 Sunday School, Handicapped accessible, Family Friendly Church. Find us on Facebook! Church of the Incarnation 44 S. 8th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-3787
Ardores@verizon.net www.IncarnationQuakertown.org
Pastor: Most Rev. Thomas J. Kleppinger Traditional worship, Biblical faith Sunday 10:30am, Holy Days as announced.
Emmanuel Episcopal Church 560 S. Main Street Quakertown, PA 18951
215-536-3040
emmanuelchurch11@yahoo.com www.emmanuelquakertown.org
Sunday service at 10am, Visitors and new members always welcome!
First United Church of Christ 151 S. Fourth Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4447
info@firstUCC.net www.firstUCC.net
Senior Pastor: Rev. Jon C. Bauman
Sunday worship 9:15 am. Sunday School
Classes for all ages at 10:30 am. 2nd Saturday Free Community Lunch Pickup 9:00 am. 3rd Thursday Free Community Supper 5:30 pm
Good News Church
424 Juniper Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4393
Pastor: David Markey, Jr.
An alternative to the ultra-contemporary Sunday Worship and Children’s Church 10:30 am, Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm, World Evangelism Fellowship affiliate.
Grace Bible Fellowship Church 1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N. Quakertown, PA 18951
215-536-6096
grace@quakertownbfc.org www.quakertownbfc.org
Sr. Pastor: Ron Kohl
Sunday School for all ages. 10:10am
Morning Worship, Small group meetings 2nd & 4th Sundays 6:30pm; Tues: Ladies Bible Study 9:45am; Wed: AWANA (2 yrs - 6th grade) & Teens for Christ 6:30pm, Adult prayer meeting 6:45pm Juniper Street Bible Church 317 Juniper Street Quakertown, PA 18951
267-373-9115
Pastor: Derrick Thompson www.juniperstreetbiblechurch.org
Worship Sunday 10 am; also live on Facebook recorded to watch on Youtube. Bible study Tuesday 6 pm. We pray you will join us in worship and study. Morning Star Fellowship 429 S. 9th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-529-6422
Pastors: John & Theresa Decker www.mstarqtown.org
Sunday Services at 9 am and 11 am. Biblically based teaching. Ministry for all ages and stages of life. Student Ministry Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. Free Community Meal Mondays at 5:15 pm. Pennridge Christian Fellowship 720 Blooming Glen Rd Blooming Glen, PA 18911 215-257-7309
pastor@pennridgecf.org www.pennridgecf.org
Pastor: Thomas Vargis
Multicultural Charismatic church worshipping God in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Our service consists of song service, testimonies, and teaching of the word. Live Spanish translation & children’s service 10:30 Sunday worship.Livestream: fb.com/pennridgechristianfellowship
Quakertown United Methodist Church 1875 Freier Road
Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4992
barb@qumc.com www.qumc.com
Pastor: Rev. Graham Truscott
Sunday schedule: Worship 8:30 am, Sunday School 9:45 am, Worship 11 am Communion first Sunday of each month. RCCG New Life Chapel 450 S. West End Blvd (Route 309) Quakertown, PA 18951 (732) 491-1914 pastor@rccgquakertown.com www.rccgquakertown.com
Pastor: Kayode Oluyemi Are you looking for the transformative experience through worship and the undiluted inspired word of God? Come to New Life Chapel on Sunday at 10am & Tuesday at 7pm.
Richland Friends Meeting 206 S. Main Street Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 538-7555 clerk@richlandquakers.org www.Richlandquakers.org
Join us Sundays at 10:30am St. John’s Lutheran Church 4 South Main Street • PO Box 458 Richlandtown, PA 18955 215-536-5027 Admin@stjohnsrpa.org www.stjohnsrpa.org
Pastor: Rev Dr. David A Genszler
In person worship service Sunday at 9:30 am, Watch our Worship Service anytime on stjohnsrpa.org/sermon or on Facebook. Activity Center Rentals Open, Capacity 125, call 215-536-5027 to book.
St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown PO Box 120 1565 Sleepy Hollow Rd Spinnerstown, PA 18968 (GPS Quakertown 18951) 215-536-0734 stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org
Bridge Pastor: R. Bruce Todd Worship Service: 9:30 a.m. Service also is live-streamed on Facebook (St. John's Lutheran Church, Spinnerstown, PA) and video available on the church website.
St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church - Ridge Valley 910 Allentown Road
Sellersville, PA 18960 (W Rockhill Twp) 215-257-9643 stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com www.stjohnridgevalley.com
Pastor: Rev. Lauren Bruno
Traditional Worship Service at 9:30 AM (communion w/ gluten free wafers and grape juice available) Dinner Church at 5:00 PM (communion available) in our Fellowship Hall. Handicapped accessible. All are invited and welcome to share the joy!
St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Applebachsville 849 Old Bethlehem Road Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-5789 stpaulsqtown@gmail.com www.stpaulsqtown.org
Pastor: Rev. David Heckler
We believe in sharing God’s love in joyful service. Come and see. All are welcome. St. Paul’s United Church of Christ 104 Green Street Sellersville, PA 18960 215-257-7268 secretary@stpaulsucc.net www.stpaulsucc.net
Pastor: Rev. Dr. Steven Simpson Sunday Worship 10:15 in Sanctuary Springfield Mennonite Church 1905 Pleasant View Road Coopersburg PA 18036 267-999-1404
Pastor: Brent Briggs www.springfieldmennonite.org
Join us at 10:15 am Sunday Mornings for a Blended Worship Service, Multigenerational,lovingcongregation.Biblically and Doctrinally Sound. Trinity Lutheran Church 102 N. Hellertown Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536.4345
www.trinityquakertown.org
Pastor: Rev. Rachel Scheible 10:15 am Service, Handicap accessible, Family Friendly, Dynamic Music Ministry, Living God’s Love for All
seNior Pastor at first uNited cHurcH of cHrist iN QuakertowN He caN be reacHed at JbaumaN@firstucc Net
'Pack the Patrol Car' Nets 4300 lbs of Goods for Quakertown Food Pantry
Quakertown Police Department's 2025 Pack the Patrol Car event was a huge success! Thanks to the generosity of the Quakertown Plaza Giant Food Store and the community, the department collected 4,302 lbs of nonperishable goods to be donated to the Quakertown Food Pantry. Your kindness will brighten many tables this season.
Who's the Oldest of them All?
It’s almost impossible to say what the oldest living organism is. There are too many categories and debates. There are species that reproduce sexually and ones that clone themselves and they are subdivided further. There are claimants for oldest tree, oldest bush, oldest grass, fish, animals, fungi, and even the oldest micro-organisms. I always believed (and confidently told people), that Humongous Fungus (Armillaria solidipes) in Oregon is the largest organism, King Clone, a creosote bush (Larrea tridentata) in California is the oldest living bush, and Methuselah, a bristlecone pine (Pinus longaeva) living near Death Valley, is the oldest tree. But now, I’m not sure any of them is true.
The longest-lived ‘thing’, according to ‘experts’, is a hydrozoan (Turritopsis dohrnii). While under stress the tiny animal can revert to a polyp then regrow when conditions improve. Essentially, they’re immortal, only die by being killed. There are other micro-organisms and some nematodes that go into quasisuspended animation in amber or rocks. They can revive after tens of millions of years. A bacterium was discovered in Siberia (Actinomycetota) that is (allegedly) 500,000 years old. Endoliths, microbes that inhabit rocks at the bottom of oceans and reproduce a new generation only every 10,000 years, can live for millions of years. But endless resurrections or dormancy reactivations shouldn’t count. Besides, I refuse to put organisms on my list that require a microscope to see.
The longest-lived things my eyes can see propagate vegetatively, by cloning. New generations are ‘spawned’ by producing runners, stolons, bulbs, corms, suckers, and tubers that retain the original DNA. Some also reproduce sexually when conditions are right—with spores and seeds. Non-clonal organisms like animals, fish, and most flowering plants don’t usually have lifespans as long. Debates over aging techniques and new discoveries continually adjust the ‘oldest’ lists.
Scientists claim that the largest, heaviest, and possibly oldest organism on Earth is a giant seagrass colony. Australia’s ‘meadow’ of Posidonia australis is 112 miles long and covers 77 square miles, easily the largest living thing. It clones via rhizomes under the sea floor and is at least 4,500 years old. Another ‘meadow’ of Posidoonia oceanica off Balearic Island, Spain, is said to be between 12,000 and 200,000 years old. That sounds unreasonable, and I can’t see it without SCUBA gear so I won’t count it, either.
Also in plain sight is a clonal Tasmanian shrub (Lomatia tasmanica) that, arguably, is 43,000 years old. A similar bush in Australia (Eucalyptus recurva), is more reliably dated at 13,000 years.
The Jurpa Oak (Quercus palmeri) near Riverside, CA, could also be 13,000 years old. As could a box huckleberry (Gaylussacia Brachycera) in Perry County, Pennsylvania. It was first said to be 13,000 years old, too, but recent estimates make 8,600 more likely.
Humongous Fungus (Armillaria solidipes), underlies over 3.5 square miles of Oregon forest floor and weighs as much as 35,000 tons. It’s superseded as heaviest organism by only the Australian seagrass meadow. underground rhizomorph ‘shoestrings’ spread outward at about three
feet a year so its age is estimated at 8,500 years. There might be an even larger fungus in Michigan but it’s not proven so in my book Oregon’s still wins.
King Clone is a creosote ring located only a few miles from my place in Pioneertown, CA. [I’ve visited it!] The bush reproduces by putting out shoots around its perimeter. As the inner, older parts die off the peripheral branches continue to sprout outward. Eventually the bush forms a ring of genetically identical plants. King Clone is about 40 feet in diameter. Carbon-14 testing on wood from the center of the ring gave an age of over 11,500 years. But they recently found another creosote near Palm Springs that’s supposedly even older. And, there are several other bushes in Australia that claim to be older, too, but aren’t official, either.
I’ve known about bristlecone pines and Methuselah forever. It’s a real, sexually reproducing tree (pine cones), not a clone. It lives in the White Mountains in Inyo Co., eastern California. Harsh weather and nutrient poor conditions stunt growth and delay decay. Growing at a secret location between 9,500 and 9,800 feet elevation, the tree was cored in 1957 and aged at 4,789 years. There’s a stump of an even older one nearby, but Methuselah is still alive. But again, in Chile there’s Alerce Milenario (Fitzroya cupressoides), Great-grandfather Tree, that ‘they say’ is over 5,000 years old. I’ll keep Methuselah on top of my list for now.
Then there’s Pando, a quaking aspen grove (Populus tremuloides) in Sevier Co. Utah. It’s the largest aspen clone and the world’s oldest, heaviest, and largest tree by volume. It has over 47,000 ‘stems’/ trunks that look like separate trees but aren’t. They’re all connected by a single root system that covers over 106 acres. Aspen ‘stems’ live about 100 years with new ones continually sprouting. Botanists believe Pando has been there since the end of the last ice age and could be 14,000 years old.
However, if genetically identical ‘material’ determines an individual, like King Clone and Pando, then the oldest living thing by far is a wollemi pine colony (Wollemia nobilis). It’s (supposedly), a remnant population found in Australia of an extinct species known only from 60 million years old fossils. It’s apparently been abiding, patiently cloning itself since the Eocene Epoch! There are too many records set in Australia for me to not be skeptical.
What’s the oldest living thing? Ask: What’s the criteria? What kind of living thing? Who says so? I guess Pando is older than King Clone and the sea grass is bigger than Humongous Fungus but Methuselah is still the oldest tree, on my list.
and... Some sponges and corals live thousands of years. Greenland sharks and bottlehead whales can live 200 years. Aldabra tortoises of India and tuatara lizards of New Zealand regularly surpass 100 years. Indian elephants live up to 90, chimpanzees, 80.
The longest-lived person in recent records is Jeanne Calment of France, who died in 1997 at 122 years, 164 days. Jiroemon Kimura of Japan is the longestlived man. He died in 2013 at 116 years, 54 days.
Jack scHick is a loNg time QuakertowN area resideNt aNd regular coNtributor Here at ubfP. reacH Him at sJckscHc@aol com
Everyone Should Have These Four Basic Estate Planning Documents
BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ.
Pennridge School District Celebrates 72 AP Scholars with Distinction and 15 AP Capstone Award Recipients
The Pennridge School District is proud to recognize the exceptional academic achievements of its students, celebrating 72 AP Scholars with Distinction and 15 students who earned AP Capstone awards during the 2024–25 school year.
The AP Scholar with Distinction designation is granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all Advanced Placement (AP) Exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. This recognition underscores Pennridge students’ dedication to rigorous coursework and their success across a wide range of college-level subjects.
In addition, 15 Pennridge students earned recognition through the AP Capstone Diploma™ program, with several earning the prestigious AP Capstone Diploma™ and others earning the AP Seminar and Research Certificate™. The AP Capstone program helps students develop essential college and career skills, critical thinking, research, collaboration, and presentation, through two interdisciplinary courses: AP Seminar and AP Research.
“Our students took on some of the most challenging coursework available in high school and excelled. That speaks not only to their hard work but also to the teachers who encouraged, questioned,
of the Pennridge School District.
To earn the AP Capstone Diploma, students must earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar, AP Research, and on four additional AP Exams of their choice. Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in both AP Seminar and AP Research receive the AP Seminar and Research Certificate.
AP Seminar and AP Research assessments are project-based, evaluating mastery of skills through collaborative projects, presentations, and written analyses completed throughout the year. Students are encouraged to investigate topics of personal interest, integrating multiple academic disciplines to develop well-rounded research and communication skills.
At Pennridge, students’ research topics ranged from environmental sustainability and technology ethics to educational equity and community health, demonstrating the diversity of thought and engagement fostered by the Capstone program.
“Congratulations to all Pennridge students who earned AP Capstone Diplomas, Seminar and Research Certificates, and AP Scholar honors,” said Trevor Packer, head of the Advanced Placement Program. “Their achievements reflect both academic excellence and
Regardless of your health, age or net worth, everyone should have these four basic estate planning documents in place:
Will:
For most people, a will is the estate plan center piece. A will distributes your property according to your wishes after your death. If you die without a will (intestate), the state will distribute your property according to their intestacy laws, and the people receiving your property may not be the people you intended. A will can also be used to name a legal guardian for minor children. If you and the child’s other biological parent die in the same incident (i.e. car crash) or you are a single parent, this function is extremely important. Additionally, a will can also be used to create certain types of trusts.
Advance Health Care Directive:
You have the right to decide the type of health care you receive. In the event that you become unable to understand, make or communicate decisions about medical care, an advance health care directive allows your medical care wishes to be followed. An advance health care directive is a written set of instructions expressing your wishes for medical treatment. It may also contain a health care power of attorney, where you name a person called a “health care agent”, to make medical decisions on your behalf in the event that you are unable to do so yourself. An advance health care directive may also contain a living will, where you
inform your health care agent and health care providers your choices regarding the initiation, continuation, withholding or withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment and other specific medical directions.
Durable Power of Attorney
A durable power of attorney is a document that helps protect your property and assets in the event you become physically or mentally unable to look after your own finances. If there is no one ready to look after you finances, all of your hard-earned assets could go to waste. A durable power of attorney allows you to authorize someone else to act on your behalf. They will be able to do (among others) things like pay your bills, collect checks, monitor and manage your investments, file your taxes, handle insurance claims, file lawsuits on your behalf and hire professionals.
Letter of Instruction
A letter of instruction is an informal document that typically accompanies your will. This letter is your way of expressing your thoughts and directions (typically regarding your burial/cremation instructions and where to find other important documents). While a letter of instruction is not an official legal document, it is often the most comforting document for the family members that you leave behind.
robert e fravel,
BY RAY FOX '66
QCHS Alumni Spotlight: A Recap of Articles since 2022
I want to thank our readers who have been following the QCHS Alumni Spotlight articles since they began in August 2022. There have been so many wonderful comments from readers over the last forty-one months. This also includes ideas for future articles. I want to thank Chris Betz for substituting for me by writing the November article. This month will include two topics: 1. An update on the ongoing list of WW II Veterans from the Quakertown area and 2. A review of the articles that have appeared since 2022.
World War II Veterans Update
This topic began in April of 2025 with the first of two articles about local hero John Rivers. After the second article in May, it was suggested that we pay our respects and honor all of those who served during WW II. Little did I know at that time what an amazing list would be compiled. I do believe that we have captured the majority of those who served but that we still do not have everyone. The first list appeared in June and included 435 people who served. It grew by another 119 in July and has steadily grown through phone calls and emails asking to add others.
The most common conversations have gone like this, “I saw the list of WW II Veterans and want to thank you for honoring them. But my dad or my mom or my grandfather or my grandmother were not listed. Could you add them to the list.” Our first step is to open the list to see if that name was on it. The next step has been to add the name to the list. And so, the list has grown until today the list has 784 names included. I welcome additions which can be added by calling me at 215-536-6649 or email to rdefox@msn.com. This month's additions are: Donald Barto and Albert T. Musselman, Jr.
Review of articles from August 2022 to December 2025 2022
August - John Weaver, Class of ’82College professor and author
September – Dennis Pfleiger, Class of ’88
– President of St. Luke’s Upper Bucks
October – Jeff Ahlum, Class of ’81 –Voice of Quakertown Panthers
November – Jerry Kilhefner, Class of ’88
– President of Klover Contracting
December - Jane Shaw Cygan, Class of ’77- Represented US on National Field Hockey Team 2023
January – A history of the QHS Alumni Association
February – Alumni Association Bingo
March – Eric Breon, Class of ’96 – Founder and CEO of VACASA
April – Bill Harr and Ron Heller, Class of ’52 Owner of Sines 5 & 10 and a retired local barber
May – Marilyn Bobb, Class of ’74 –Multiple positions in the Medical Field
June – Todd Carter, Class of ’89Anderson Consulting and Co-owner of Tailored Clothing
July – 7 Alumni Scholarship Winners, 3 Hall of Fame inductees, and Honorary Diploma Recipient – Nancy Tirjan
August – Helena Van Emmerick-Finn, Class of ’66- Freelance Artist
September – Pete Jarrett – Veteran QCSD Teacher at Strayer Middle School
October – Heather Van Pelt Schmidt, Class of ’96 - Social Worker with visually impaired
November – John Bauman, Class of ’10, Pastor at UCC Quakertown
December – The fate of the Quakertown Elementary School building 2024
January – Christopher Betz, Class of ’90Entrepreneur, Publisher of UBFP
February – Randy Maugle, Class of ’73-Marathon runner, teacher, and coach at Council Rock
March – David Wilsey, Class of ’71Entrepreneur, Chef, Inventor, Community Service
April – Cheryl Stoneback, Class of ’63Social Worker, Director of Bucks County Area on Aging, Minister
May – Megan Angelo, Class of ’02Author, Free Lance Writer
June – Craig Thatcher, Class of ’72Musician (Guitar), Composer
July – 11 Alumni Scholarship Winners
August – Wall of Fame Inductees Tim Neiman and Rich Wyckoff and Honorary Diploma Recipient Dave Kratz
September – Mike Johnson, Class of ’74 -Law Enforcement and Quakertown
Borough Council
October – Ann Foulke Hellman, Class of ’66 - Eagle Shirt and Business Manager of Board of Directors at Richland Library
November – Robin Davis Detweiler, Class of ’01 - Basketball Coach Warren Wilson College in Swannanoa, NC
December – Dave Gerstenberg, Class of 98- Owner of Dave’s Services, Community Service 2025
January – Karen Shelly, Class of ’71Music Educator, Director of Zion Choral Society
February – Robert Leight, Class of ’50, Lehigh University Professor, Board member QCSD
March – Janet Cressman Stever, Class of ’73, Freelance Artist
April – John Rivers, Class of ’37 - Part One- His life in Quakertown
May – John Rivers, Class of ’37 - Part Two - His Life as a Marine and WW II Hero
June – The beginning of lists of WW II Veterans from Quakertown Area
July – 11 Alumni Scholarship Winners plus continuation of WW II List
August – Wall of Fame Inductees - Ashton Rosenberger Miller, Class of ’16; Karl Scheibenhofer, Class of ’89; and David Wilsey, Class of ’71; Honorary Diploma
Recipient- Wayne Codner
September – Class of ’51 and Bill & Nancy Fischer, Class of ’48 and ’51; Veteran and plasterer for Wm G. Fischer Company; Insurance Business, Banking Business, and former President of Business and Professional Women’s Club
October – Vince Randazzo, Class of ’96 - Restaurant and Real Estate Management
November – Richard Wyckoff, Class of ’63 - Federal Communication Commission, National Association of Broadcasters, PA Association of Broadcasters December – WW II Update and Review of Articles from August 2022 to Present As readers can see, these articles have covered a wide range of decades and of people from a wide range of professions. This has been an objective from the beginning. We still have a list of names for potential articles but welcome your input. All we need is the name of the person you would like to recommend for an article and information on how to contact that person. This can be done by calling Ray Fox at 215-536-6649 or emailing him at rdefox@ msn.com
The Quakertown Community High School Alumni Association encourages alumni to participate in the Association activities. Its mission includes fundraising to provide scholarship opportunities each year for graduating seniors. Please check out our Facebook Page “Quakertown High School Alumni Association” and the Alumni pages of the QCSD.org website for more information. We are a 501(c)3 organization and always welcome any contributions toward our scholarship endeavors. If you are interested in donating, please email us at qchsalumniboard@gmail.com and you will receive info on how to do so. The Alumni board is a group of dedicated people who strive to support the students and alumni as much as we can. You could say that we “bleed blue” but more importantly, that we embody two commonly known Quakertown mottos:
“Enter to Learn; Leave to Serve.”
Zachary Derstine Named UBCTS November Student of the Month
Palisades High School senior Zachary Derstine has been selected as Upper Bucks Technical School’s November Student of the Month for his dedication, curiosity, and outstanding performance in the Mechatronics program. Zach is a committed student in the classroom and a strong employee while working at Scaletron, where he is gaining real-world experience that complements his technical studies.
Zach credits his family for giving him a strong work ethic. He states, “They push me to do my best, regardless of the outcome.”
His journey to UBCTS began in 8th grade during a school tour, where he was instantly infatuated with the Mechatronics classroom, especially robotics. The Mechatronics instructor made a lasting impression by guiding the group through each station with clear passion and expertise—an experience that sealed Zach’s decision to enroll in 9th grade.
He takes initiative in his learning, actively participates in discussions, and shows genuine curiosity about new material. Zach is dependable, responsible, and always willing to help others, making him a role model for his classmates. His dedication and character make him an excellent choice for this recognition.
Zach values that UBCTS allows students to learn fundamental, employable trade skills in a supportive environment.
One of Zach’s most memorable moments in the Mechatronics program was a project in which his class transcribed blueprints for a part that the Machining program would later fabricate—a part that would be used in a NASA satellite. Contributing to something destined for space was an unforgettable highlight.
Mechatronics Teacher Chris Passante shared that Zach consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, respect for his peers, and a positive attitude in the classroom.
After graduation, Zach may pursue a degree in Robotics or enter the field of Statistics. His love of numbers and data is deeply connected to one of his biggest passions: baseball. He can tell you little known facts about players or the sport itself. Outside of academics, Zach enjoys video games and spending time with his friends. Zach’s dream job is to become a data scientist or statistical analyst for the MLB. With his passion for Mechatronics, his fascination with statistics, and his strong work ethic, Zach is well on his way to a bright and meaningful future.
'Quakertown Cares' Continues Succesful Campaign
BY JANE THOMPSON-SMITH
Quakertown Cares has continued its three-decade tradition of helping area residents experiencing food insecurity during the holidays.
Quakertown Cares recently provided 140 families or individuals with $50 Giant cards as part of its annual Thanksgiving turkey project. They were Quakertown Community School District and Head Start families, veterans, and senior citizens with economic needs.
Quakertown Cares will partner with Salvation Army over the Christmas holiday to provide Target gift cards to the school district’s secondary students in financial need.
The 31st annual fundraising campaign is off to a strong start with over $38,000 in contributions in its initial months.
Leading the contributors were “angel” donors Zeigler Family Foundation ($20,000), and an anonymous Quakertown
area business ($10,000) both of which have supported the Quakertown Cares mission for decades, aiding thousands of area residents over the years.
The Quakertown United Methodist Church ($2,800) has continued its monthly special collections to aid families in need and also has donated a portion of the proceeds from its annual rummage sale.
Quakertown Cares is a grassroots, all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity. Contributions are tax deductible and may be dropped off at any QNB branch office, or be mailed to: Quakertown Cares, C/O QNB, P.O. Box 9005, Quakertown, PA 18951 (see coupon).
Other recent contributors through November 14: $4,400: anonymous individual; $200: Jefferson Kaighn and Beth Allen; $150: Hayley Stauffer; $100: Donna Serok, Jason and Kathryn Anderson, James and Eileen McFadden; $60: anonymous Richland Township resident, $50: Francis and Eileen Hilt.
Advocates for the Homeless Seeks Volunteers for Winter Season
Volunteers are needed to support the mission of the Advocates for the Homeless of Upper Bucks (AHUB). AHUB is a non-profit organization which serves the needs of the homeless of the Quakertown, Pennridge, and the Palisades areas. One program under AHUB is a volunteer staffed community ministry called Code Blue which provides shelter and a warm bed and meal to the homeless of Upper Bucks County on cold winter nights when the temperature is 32 degrees or below.
upperbuckscodeblue@gmail.com to learn about volunteer opportunities.
This homeless shelter is located at the Masonic Lodge in downtown Quakertown, PA. After a very successful twelve years for the program, we hope to broaden our volunteer base for this upcoming winter. Opportunities include: Shelter Admissions staff, Overnight staff, Morning Aide, and more. Season runs from November 15, 2025 to April 15, 2026. Please consider volunteering with AHUB. Contact
Code Blue Sheltering Ministry, a 501(c) (3) non-profit, officially opened in Quakertown on December 1, 2013 after three years of development and provides warm shelter, food, and respectful overnight care for homeless people in Upper Bucks County during times of life-threatening cold weather. We partner with churches, volunteer agencies and individuals in the Quakertown, Pennridge, and Palisades school districts to provide this ministry. During the 2024-2025 season, AHUB was open 73 nights with a total of 46 guests. 615 meals were served during the year. The Code Blue hotline is 267-4505191. Donations to our shelter can be made by sending to: Upper Bucks AHUB; PO Box 232, Quakertown, PA 18951. Email: upperbuckscodeblue@gmail.com.
