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• Upper Bucks Free Press • August 2018
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks? July 27
16th Annual Car Show/Craft Fair/Flea Mkt 4pm-9pm at St. Philip Neri Catholic Parish, 1325 Klinerd Rd, Pennsburg. Music, awards, food, etc. All ages, no pets.
Summer Daze Party 11:30am w/Tom Calvin (and his record collection of 45’s) UB Activity Ctr, Milford Twp Fire Hall, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown. $12/buffet. Call & let us know how many are coming. 215-536-3066,
July 28
August 2
“Academy of Natural Sciences” 10:30am at Menlo Park Pavilion, www.buckslib.org/ summerquest POQ Dash & Dip, 5K Run/Walk, 5K 3-Person Relay, 1 Mile Family Fun Run begins 8am at Quakertown Pool, 601 W Mill St. Regis. open 7am rain/shine. Info: Melissa Welsh at prideofquakertown@yahoo.com or 610-513-7589 “By the Moonlight” Car Show at Pennridge HS parking lot, Fifth St, Perkasie. Regis: 3pm, Show: 5pm-9pm. Sponsored by GoodTime Motorvators & Pennridge Community Ctr. 215-453-7027 Concert-Lizdelise (pop rock duo from Phila.) 7pm at Church of the Holy Spirit, 2871 Barndt Rd, Harleysville. churchoftheholyspirit.us/event/concert-lizdelise
July 29 to Aug 4
HOPE 2018 (Inspirational musician David Crane) 7pm every night at Highland Park Campmeeting, 415 Highland Park Rd, Sellersville.
July 30
“Lehigh Valley Zoo” 1pm at Menlo Park Pavilion, buckslib.org/summerquest “Musical Monday” Mondays in Menlo (free outdoor program for parents & kids in Perkasie’s Menlo Park) Info: 215-257-5065 or events@perkasieborough.org
August 1
Hilltown 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run begins 7pm at OLSH Catholic Church, 100 Broad St, Hilltown. 267-467-9901
Free 4-H Pet Care Program 3pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. and Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St. (4 week program for ages 8-12), 215-345-3283. Today is “Pet Show”
August 4
Family Fun Day/Touch a Truck, 11am3pm. Free event at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. Crafts, games, prizes. Performances by ‘Give & Take Jugglers’ Little Circus – Tootsee the Clown. “Cartooning Rocks!” 10:30am at Perkasie Library. Cartoonist Paul Merklein draws famous cartoon characters that entertain everyone. buckslib.org/summerquest Cruise Nights 4pm-7pm at Country Square Shop. Ctr, 240-3 West End Blvd (Rte 309) Quakertown. All makes/models/years. DJ Hodge Podge, no alcohol, donations accepted. guillrandolph@aol.com or 215-538-7256 Flea Market 8am-3pm at Southern Lehigh Living Memorial Park, Rte 309, Coopersburg. Uslionsclub.com, 800-405-2773 Ice Cream Festival 4pm-9pm at St. Luke’s Old Williams Church, 20 Church Rd, Hellertown. 610-838-0897
August 6
FREE Employment Support Group Seminar “Interviewing & Securing a Position w/Startup Companies & Family Businesses” 7pm-9pm at Thompson Memorial Presbyterian, 1680 Aquetong Rd, New Hope, PA. Contact Len at DeaneL70@verizon.net for info.
“Touch a Truck” Mondays in Menlo (free outdoor program for parents & kids in Perkasie’s Menlo Park) Info: 215-257-5065 or events@perkasieborough.org “Snow Child” Book Discussion 7pm at Quakertown Library. All welcome! 215-529-9338
August 7
Half Price Sale 9am-1pm at Pennridge Community Ctr Thrift Shop, Rtes 113 & 152, Silverdale. All welcome! ‘Dine & Donate Night’ 5pm-9pm at J.T. Bankers, 309 S Main St, Sellersville. Dine in or Take out, 10% proceeds donated to Last Chance Ranch Animal Rescue. lastchanceranch.org
August 10
Red Cross Blood Drive 10am-3pm at Pennridge Community Ctr, Rtes 113 & 152, Silverdale. (thrift shop open) 215-453-7027
August 10 & 11
Root Beer Floats 10am-4pm at Landis Market in Perkasie. (benefits Pennridge Community Center)
August 11
“Driving w/Your Eyes Closed” 2pm-5pm. A reading of a new screenplay performed by professional actors at the Cultural Center, Pearl S Buck Intl, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. Free but donations are encouraged. Community Picnic! 3pm-7:30pm, Church Grove, Trinity Great Swamp UCC, 9150 Spinnerstown Rd, Spinnerstown. Basket raffle, cake walk, games/crafts for kids, Bingo! Red Hill Band 4:30pm-6:30pm. Bring lawn chairs. Rain/shine St. John’s Fire, Bon Fire for Adults 7:30pm. Mike McGraft, music, refreshmts, bring chair & flashlight. FREE, inside if rainy. St. John’s Lutheran, Ridge Valley, 910 Allentown Rd, West Rockhill Twp. 215-257-9643
August 12
9th Annual Bell Tower Concert 6pm. (Classic & Popular) After concert play Name That Tune. Hot dogs/ice cream for sale, playground open. Bring chair, (r/s) St. John’s Lutheran, Ridge Valley, 910 Allentown Rd, West Rockhill. 215-257-9643 Family Bingo (open 12noon) at UB Activity Ctr, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown. 267-490-9293 Old Fashioned Hymn Sing & Ice Cream Social 7pm at First Church of the Brethren, 455 Trumbauersville Rd, Quakertown. 215-536-7510, quakertowncob@gmail.com Cruise with the Motorvator’s at Quakertown Dairy Queen, Rte 309, Qtown. 4pm-8pm. $1/donation per car goes to CHoP.
August 13
“The Barn Nature Center” Mondays in Menlo (free outdoor program for parents & kids in Perkasie’s Menlo Park) 215-257-5065 or events@perkasieborough.org “Jasper Mines of Vera Cruz” by Bob Thomas, 7pm at West Rockhill Historical Society meeting.
August 14
35th Charity Golf Outing (Qtown Rotary) at Fox Hollow Golf Club, $120/per golfer. Info: George 267-772-0782, QTRotry@gmail.com
August 14 & 16
‘Cruise into Kindergarten’ for kids entering kindergarten. (Tues @ 10:30am) (Thur @ 6:30pm) 30 minute storytime w/songs, rhymes & more. Buckslib.org
August 15
“The Great Gatsby & Roaring 20’s” performed 1pm by Alisa Dupuy at Pennridge Commun. Ctr, Rtes 113 & 152, Silverdale. Free, all welcome!
August 2018 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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UBFP Monthly is made possible by the businesses and organizations you see on these pages. Remember to thank them for supporting your community’s voice.
Have something to share with your community? Send us the details! info@ubfp.org • fax: 215-839-3421 • 582 S. West End Blvd • Quakertown, PA 18951
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • August 2018
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks? August 16
August 19
‘Herman’s Hermits w/Peter Noone’ at Sounds of Summer Concert Series, 501 W Mill St, Quakertown. Tickets: quakertown.eventbrite.com
August 20
All-U-Can-Eat Breakfast 8am-12pm at Haycock Fire Co, 850 Old Bethlehem Rd, Quakertown. 215-536-2224 or haycockfire.org
August 23
UBE Fire Company Carnival (live music, Ron 610-972-7272) at 1716 Fire House Ln, Upper Black Eddy. 610-982-5710
August 17 Luau-Themed Dinner Dance (buffet 6pm-8pm) (dance 8pm-11pm) at Pennridge Commun. Ctr, Rtes 113 & 152, Silverdale. $22 w/reservations, $12 dance only. 215-453-7027
August 18 Mother’s Market 9am-1pm at Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 Allentown Rd Free Bubble Festival 11am-4pm at New Goshenhoppen Park, 3rd St, East Greenville. Come make huge GRANDPOP BUBBLES! Share 3ft bubble wands and 3ft bubble Tristrings. All ages welcome! ‘Under the Stars Car Show’ (open to public 5pm-9pm) Over 400 antique, classic & custom vehicles line Perkasie’s historic town center. Crowded event, service animals only! Info 215-257-5065
All-U-Can-Eat Breakfast 7:30am-12:30pm at Perkasie Fire Dept, 100 N 5th St, Perkasie. “Coraline” (Perkasie Library Night at the Movies) 7:30pm at Sellersville Theater. View & Brew, Free Movie Night. ‘Little River Band’ at Sounds of Summer Concert Series, 501 W Mill St, Quakertown. Tickets: quakertown.eventbrite.com
August 24
Mohegan Sun Casino, $32 (includes $25 slot play & $5 food voucher) Bus leaves Eastern UB Senior Ctr, 8040 Easton Rd, Ottsville at 8:15am, return 5:45pm. Call Jim 610-847-2305 or 610-847-8178 for availability.
August 25
‘Kennel of Hope Yard Sale’ 8am-2pm at Animals in Distress Shelter, 5075 Limeport Pike, Coopersburg. $10/table to sell, 100% of money raised goes to help the shelter animals. Lunch avail. at noon. 610-966-9383 animalsindistress.org Storytime at Perkasie Farmers Mkt at 9:30am & 10:30am. All ages welcome!
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.
August 26
August 29 to Sept. 2
September 1
Flea Market/Craft Fair 8am-1pm at Perseverance Fire Co, 266 N 2nd St, Souderton. 215-723-9208 or 215-406-5054 Outdoor Flea Mkt & Bake Sale 8am-2pm at Haycock Twp Community Ctr, 1014 Old Bethlehem Rd, Quakertown. 215-239-6290 East Greenville Community Day 10am-4pm, egreenville.org Yard Sale & Craft Fair 8am-2pm at Faith UCC, Rte 378, Center Valley. 610-797-4635
4th Annual Bucks Co Foodshed 5K & 3K Walk at Delaware Valley University, 700 E Butler Ave, Doylestown (r/s) 5K at 8:30am, 3K at 9am. Regis. by 8/29 at bucksfoodshed.org/5K. Also regis. at event 7:30am. Info:BCFA5K@gmail.com Cruise Nights 4pm-7pm at Country Square Shop. Ctr, 240-3 West End Blvd (Rte 309) Quakertown. All makes/models/years. DJ Hodge Podge, no alcohol, donations accepted. Email guillrandolph@aol.com, 215-538-7256
September 8 & 9
September 8
September 10
Chicken Dinner & Bake Sale 4:30pm-7pm at Quakertown United Methodist, 1875 Freier Rd, Quakertown. $10/adults, $4/kids 4-10. Eat in or take out
27th Annual Doylestown Arts Festival (Art Week event precedes the festival) 10am5pm on Doylestown’s quaint, historical downtown streets (pedestrian for the day) More info at dtownartsfestival.com and MichenerArtMuseum.org
September 9
Cruise with the Motorvator’s at Quakertown Dairy Queen, Rte 309, Qtown. 4pm-8pm. $1/donation per car goes to CHoP AARP Meeting 1:30pm to 3pm, Speaker on the Village at Lifequest Assisted Living Apts opening in Spring 2019. UB Activity Ctr, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown. 267-424-4094.
2018 Subaru Crosstrek After a low 18-inch step-in into the cockpit, you’re treated to a sensibly designed interior with two-tone cloth seats. Dash and doors are adorned with faux carbon fiber trim that looks very real. Large rotary dials for HVAC are easy to use without having to study the owners’ manual. And a 6.5-inch display (an 8-inch LCD comes with the Limited trim model) serves audio, rearview camera and the (Starlink) multimedia system. The only thing missing is a smartphone charger that would fit nicely in the bin at the bottom of the vertical stack. Perhaps the 2019 will have it. Back seats can easily accommodate three tweens or two large adults, either of which have an appreciable amount of leg and headroom. Flip the rear seatback (that actually folds flat) and there’s 55.3 cubic feet of cargo space. With them up there’s 20.8 cubic feet. More meaningful, the space with the seats up measures 32 inches deep, 40 wide and 29 high. Flip the seat backs and depth extends to 61 inches. The cargo area liftover is a low 30 inches making for easy loading/unloading of heavy bulky materials. And beneath the floor, there’s some small item storage. Crosstrek gets its grunt from a 2.0-liter, Boxer flat four-cylinder that generates 152-hp and 145 lb/ft of torque. It garners EPA mileage estimates of 23 city, 29-highway mpg with a standard 6-speed manual transmission. A CVT is also offered and those EPA estimates come
in at 27 city, 33-highway mpg. With the manual trans, acceleration from a standard stop is merely a linear application of power. The engine is a tad noisy under hard acceleration, however it’s unnoticeable once underway. A turbo, though, would be nice for merging onto high speed traffic lanes. But for those seeking economy, they’ll be pleased with
the 2.0L. Ride wise on Yokohama 17-inch tires, it’s smooth without feeling boaty on smooth roads, but harsh pavement radiates a bit into the cabin. Handling is impressive. Subaru dialed just enough tautness into the suspension for decent road feel and when rounding sharp turns taken at speed. There’s almost negligible body lean. As for Subaru’s famed Symmetrical AWD, it’s sure-footed. And with 8.7 inches of ground clearance (which is taller than many crossovers/SUVs, even some trucks), the Suby can get through some decent snow depths and high water. Despite this good clearance, there’s no tippy feeling nor does the Crosstrek feel unmanageable. And with X-Mode/Hill Control that is now standard, push a button to engage it and it controls the vehicle when descending slippery slopes. By taking your foot off the brake, the system will automatically negotiate the slope, allowing the driver to concentrate on steering. And this isn’t just for offroads, it’s for any slippery, steep roadways. Affordability is another favorable Cross trek
trait. With a very long list of most wanted safety features and amenity items, the Crosstrek came with no extra cost options. The only charge added to the base price of $22,595 was delivery ($915) that took the bottom line to an affordable $23,510. This is a lot of AWD SUV for the money. And it comes as a top safety pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Association gave it a full five overall stars, four for passenger side frontal impact and four for rollover. All favorable safety ratings for a compelling SUV. Nick Hromiak is an automotive enthusiast and freelance writer. We look forward to bringing you his new column each month. He can be reached at nhromiak@verizon.net.
August 2018 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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Get on the Bucks County Ice Cream Trail! Looking for a good reason to get out of the house? Here’s your chance to “Get the Scoop” (literally) on Bucks County’s best ice cream! Taste the area’s fresh, homemade flavors along our ice cream trail spanning Upper, Central and Lower Bucks County. Hop on the Bucks County Ice Cream Trail! (It’s a thing!)
Upper Bucks County
Start your delicious journey at OwowCow Creamery in Ottsville. Their ice cream is proudly made with locally-grown and sourced ingredients. The delicious treats are crafted every day from scratch and the virtually recipe-free environment makes for an exciting culinary experience. Come back often for a taste of all four seasons! Favorite flavors include Banana Caramel, Blood Orange Raspberry and Sweet Honey Cream. Chubby’s Ice Cream, housed in a dairy barn, is a local favorite! Stop by for soft serve, water ice and entertainment for the whole family. Try unique flavors like Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip, Butter Pecan and Maple Walnut. Housed in an old refurbished school, Sundae School is an ice cream lover’s dream. With 58 flavors, including Magical Unicorn and Playdough, there is something everyone can enjoy. Along with rich summer treats, Sundae School also offers milkshakes and cakes that are made to order for any special occasion.
Central Bucks County
Start this leg of your trip at the Nina’s Waffles in downtown Doylestown. Try unique ice cream flavor combinations like Espresso Crunch and Cinnamon Bourbon, while enjoying a taste of Belgium in Bucks County! Their hand-cooked waffles are made from their own in-house recipe. Tanner Bros Dairy Farm has been in the dairy business for more than 100 years! Ask local families and they’ll tell you Tanners is the place to go for homemade ice cream, fresh made milk and more. Classic flavors include Rocky Road and Peanut Butter Swirl. The OwowCow location at Carousel Village in Wrightstown is another must-see shop! Please your palate with the fresh flavors of Lemon Ginger, Amaretto Fudge Swirl and more seasonal selections. The Last Temptation, doesn’t have to be the last stop on your pursuit for sweet treats. This snug shop in New Hope is known for their popular “blend-ins.” You can choose your favorite candy, cookie or fruit to blend with your favorite flavor. I scream, you scream, we all scream for
ICandy and Creamery! Enjoy locally made ice cream and a variety of candy, including Shriver’s Salt Water Taffy and Asher’s Chocolate. All ice cream flavors featured at Moo Hope are hand-churned in New Hope. With more than 50 options, that are always changing, this quaint shop is well worth the visit! Dilly’s Corner at Centre Bridge, serves up American classics. Enjoy a burger on the patio, perfectly paired with your favorite Vanilla, Chocolate or Swirl soft serve ice cream at this old-fashioned joint! If you can’t get enough, you’re in luck! Nina’s Waffles has locations in both New Hope and Peddler’s Village. We recommend ending at the Peddler’s Village location where you can shop til’ you drop at the surrounding stores. Tire out the kids with some family fun at Giggleberry Fair, which features the largest indoor obstacle course and a restored 1922 carousel. You can also make it an overnight getaway by staying at the charming Golden Plough Inn.
Lower Bucks County
The Goodnoe Farm Dairy Bar is no stranger to Bucks County, and neither is its delicious ice cream. The family farm has been passed down through four generations. More than 50 years later, it has still maintained the same great taste! Their menu includes a variety of flavors, such as Cherry Vanilla and Swiss Chocolate Almond, that are all made at their nearby farm. Head to the eclectic Zebra-Striped Whale located in the heart of Newtown for unique creations. This shop features a frozen granite slab where your favorite toppings are handwhirled into delectable desserts. Tasty flavors include Mochaccino Coffee, Gold Medal Ribbon and Sweet Cream. They also serve up splendid cakes for all occasions. Uncle Dave’s is the ultimate stop for homemade ice cream! Located at Shady Brook Farm, they focus on using the highest quality ingredients to ensure the delicious taste. The flavors are rotated seasonally so no two visits are the same. If there’s a flavor you can’t live without, stop by the market and bring it home for the family to share. Dairy Delite, located in Levittown, is a local favorite. Stop by for some seasonal soft serve after a day of fun at Sesame Place, or simply treat the whole family on any sunny day! Presented by Visit Bucks County www.visitbuckscounty.com
Did you know? Watermelon is one of summer’s best summer treats. Did you know that watermelons are not a fruit, but actually a vegetable instead? They belong to the cucumber family of vegetables.
Pearl S. Buck Int’l Hosts Screenplay Reading Event: Driving with your Eyes Closed
“When I’m not longer rapping, I want to open up an ice cream parlor and call myself Scoop Dogg.
- Snoop Dogg
You’re invited to join us on Sunday, Aug. 11 from 2-5 PM, in the Cultural Center at Pearl S. Buck International for a reading of the new screenplay, Driving with Your Eyes Closed, written by Molly Gallagher and performed by a group of professional actors from New York City. To learn more about the screenplay and the efforts behind it check out this video online at https://vimeo.com/26752451. Welcome House Adoptee, Molly Gallagher Molly Gallagher was born in Korea and adopted as a baby by the Gallagher family through Welcome House. Molly grew up with her family in Quakertown, PA. She attended St. Isadore school in Quakertown and Bethlehem Catholic High School before going on to earn her BA from Fordham University Lincoln Center and her MFA from Boston University. Screenplay Description Molly shared this description of the screenplay, “Driving with Your Eyes Closed is a feature-length coming-of-age screenplay that features a Korean-adoptee teenage protagonist. The plot is not inherently about adoption - it’s about mothers and daughters, confronting loss, and the resilient nature of young people. It is the hope that because the unique nuances of the adoptee experience are layered into the story, it will contribute to redefining what mainstream narratives represent as the ‘typical American family.’ 18-year-old Hanna wishes her biggest prob-
lem was a case of senioritis. Grappling with the reality of her mother’s terminal illness and her failure to get into college, Hanna boards a Greyhound bus from Boston, Massachusetts heading to Asheville, North Carolina on a Hail-Mary journey to find her estranged father. With her cousin Will in tow and her mom and her math teacher (it’s complicated!) on their tails, Hanna weaves her way down I-95 searching for a future from a man whom she’s never
really met.”
Event Details: When - August 11, 2018, 2:00 to 5:00 PM Location – Cultural Center, Pearl S. Buck International, 520 Dublin Rd., Perkasie, PApearlsbuck.org/location-map-directions/ Admission - The event is complimentary but donations are encouraged. A portion of each donation will go to Pearl S. Buck International.
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • August 2018
Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship Bible Baptist Church
First United Methodist Church
Richland Friends Meeting (Quaker)
dl in Strayer Middle School Cafeteria 1200 Ronald Reagan Drive, Quakertown 267-772-0288 www.biblebaptistcares.org Pastor: Tom Harris Bible Study Hour 9:30 am, Morning Worship 10:30 am, Services interpreted for the deaf
501 Market Street, Perkasie 215-257-4626 fumcperkasie@verizon.net www.fumcperkasie.com Pastor: Scott Dorn Sunday Worship Schedule: 9am Contemporary service; 10:30am Traditional Worship
Main St at Mill Rd & Park Ave, Quakertown 215-538-7555 Friends@RichlandQuakers.org www.RichlandQuakers.org Clerk: Jack H. Schick Non-Denominational guided meditations Wed, 7pm Sunday worship 10:30am “Absolute freedom of thought and worship is our faith and practice.”
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
1 Luther Lane, Trumbauersville 215-536-3193 Pastor: Carolann Hopcke 9:00am Worship, 10:15 Sunday School Free Drive-in Movies Friday evenings June through August, Handicapped accessible, Family Friendly Church
Church of the Incarnation
44 S. 8th Street, Quakertown 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!
Evangel Assembly of God
401 Arch Street, Perkasie 215-453-1565 • www.perkasieag.org Pastor: Rev. Gary Saul Where God’s Love Changes Lives
First United Church of Christ
Fourth Street & Park Avenue, Quakertown 215-536-4447 info@firstUCC.net www.firstUCC.net facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertown Co-Pastors: Douglas & Joyce Donigian Traditional worship Sunday 9:15am, Alternative worship Sunday 5:15pm, Community dinners every 3rd Thursday 5:30pm
Good News Church
424 Juniper Street, Quakertown 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.
Good Shepherd Church (Episcopal) 1634 Hilltown Pike, Hilltown 215-822-3930 Pastor: The Rev. Catherine Kerr 10:00am Sunday Eucharist
Grace Bible Fellowship Church 1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N., Quakertown 215-536-6096 grace@quakertownbfc.org www.quakertownbfc.org Sr. Pastor: Ron Kohl Sundays: 9 am Unified Worship Service (infant/toddler care provided); 9:40 am Children’s church ages 4 through 3rd grade; No Sunday School; 6:30 pm Evening worship service; Wednesdays: 6:30 pm Teens for Christ for 6th - 12th grades, 7 PM Adult Bible Study (child care provided)
Morning Star Fellowship
429 S. 9th Street, Quakertown 215-529-6422 Pastor: John Decker www.mstarqtown.org Services at 9am & 11am, Children’s Ministry provided, EastWest Cafe open with free coffee. Celebrate recovery Tuesday 7pm. Check website for more info.
Quakertown United Methodist Church
1875 Freier Road, Quakertown 215-536-4992 barb@qumc.com www.qumc.com Pastor: Rev. Dr. Thomas S. Robinson III Sunday morning worship: 8:00am, 9:00am 11:00am Sunday School for all ages 10:00amCommunion on first Sunday of the month at all services.
Ridge Valley UCC
905 Allentown Road, Sellersville 215-257-7244 rvucc.pastor@verizon.net www.ridgevalleyucc.org Pastor: Rev. Steve Myren We are a vibrant, welcoming Family of Faith. Worship: Sundays 9:30am. Ridge Valley: Growing Together in God’s Love.
St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown
1565 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Spinnerstown 215-536-0734 stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org Pastor: The Rev. Axel Kaegler Outdoor Summer Worship, except inclement weather, June 17 through Labor Day weekend; 9:30 Sundays. Bring lawnchairs or blankets and your favorite morning beverage.
St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley
910 Allentown Road, West Rockhill Twp 215-257-9643 stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com www.stjohnsridgevalley.com Pastor: Amy Hotter 8:30am Traditional - 10:15am w/praise band. Grape juice & gluten-free wafers available. Adult Forum 9:40, Handicapped accessible. All invited and welcome to Share the Joy!
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Applebachsville
837 Old Bethlehem Road, Quakertown 215-536-5789 stpauls@netcarrier.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 215-257-7268 stacey@stpaulsucc.net www.stpaulsucc.net Pastor: Rev. John Steitz 9 AM Fellowship Hall, Prayer Shawl Ministry held 1st & 3rd Tuesdays 1 - 3 PM.
Trinity Great Swamp UCC
950 Spinnerstown Road Spinnerstown 215-679-7710 Office@tgsucc.org www.tgsucc.org Pastor: David R. Ellis Sunday worship services: 8:00 AM in the Grove (behind the church) weather permitting, otherwise in the sanctuary. 9:30 AM in the sanctuary. Sunday School will resume in the Fall.
Trinity Lutheran Church
102 N. Hellertown Avenue, Quakertown 215-536-4345 www.trinityquakertown.org Pastor: Lynette R. Chapman 9am Traditional Service, 11am Contemporary Service. Handicapped Accessible, Family Friendly Church, Dynamic Music Ministry. Living God’s Love for All.
Victory Fellowship Church
120 Ridge Road, Telford 215-453-9988 victoryfellowshippa@gmail.com www.victoryfellowshippa.org Pastor: Dr. Virgil A. Mobley Full Gospel.A friendly, loving, and joyful church where the presence of God is in His house. Check out our website.
To have your place of worship
included in this directory, please
Terri Roger at 215-529-8915 ext 11 or by email at terri@ubfp.org contact
August 2018 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
As I write this, it’s the middle of July and it is still hot! We humans may not like the heat, but the insect world is buzzing with beneficial bees and butterflies, along with some not so welcome pests. Our garden hotline has had multiple inquiries about Mealybugs. Mealybugs are persistent pests on our houseplants, as well as in our gardens. Mealybugs appear on plant stems and leaves as little cottony balls. An infestation of mealybugs can slow the growth of a plant and in cases of heavy infestation, kill the plant. Mealybugs excrete a sticky liquid called “honeydew” on which black sooty mold grows making the plant and areas surrounding it unsightly. The honeydew also attracts ants and other insects. One of our Garden Hotline Master Gardeners, Bill Pasko, created this helpful list of treatment options.
Mealybug Control
1. Prune out light infestations or dab insects with a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol. 2. Do not over water or overfertilize — mealybugs are attracted to plants with high nitrogen levels and soft growth. 3. Hose off plants with a strong stream of water and reduce pest numbers. 4. Insecticidal Soap will work fast on heavy infestations. A short-lived natural pesticide, it works by damaging the outer layer of soft-bodied insect pests, causing dehydration and death within hours. Follow label directions for application. 5. Neem oil disrupts the growth and development of pest insects and has repellent and antifeedant properties. Best of all, it’s non-toxic to honey bees and many other beneficial insects. Follow label directions. 6. Beauveria bassiana, an entomopathogenic fungus that attacks a long-list of troublesome crop pests – even resistant strains! Weekly applications can prevent insect population. 7. Fast-acting botanical insecticides should be used as a last resort. Pyrethrins, derived from plants which have insecticidal properties, these natural pesticides have fewer harmful side effects than synthetic chemicals and break down more quickly in the environment. For more information: goo.gl/HejZ33
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How can you help control the mosquito population?
Mosquitos typically breed in standing, stagnant water. Remove all standing water from your garden. Check flower pot saucers, children’s outdoor toys, pool covers and tires. Cover tops of rain barrels and don’t leave water in watering cans. A natural insecticide produced by the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) can be very effective and is safer than more dangerous pesticides. It can be purchased at your local garden center in pellets or cakes, which can float on pond surfaces and bird baths. It will not harm birds or fish, but will kill the mosquito larvae as they hatch.
Cicada Killer Wasps
Have you seen a large 1 ½-2” wasp, looking like a giant yellow jacket, burrowing large U-shaped holes in your landscape? These insects are actually a beneficial predator of the periodic cicada. The female stings and injects a poison into the cicada and then drags the paralyzed victim into its burrowed hole to feed its young, one for each male egg, and two or three for each female. When the eggs hatch, the larvae will consume the cicada host in three to four days. The female can lay and feed up to four sets of eggs in her lifetime. The male can’t sting and its only job is to mate with the female. Nice job if you can get it. Although they are scary looking, cicada killer wasps are not aggressive and seldom bother humans. They are best left alone to do the job nature intended. Since they like loose, sandy soil, you can keep them from burrowing in your lawn by having healthy turf.
Spotted lanternfly
Use this link to get the latest information, find an informative class near you, or report a siting, etc: goo.gl/ECjW2C The Home Gardening Hotline and Social Media Center is open! You can call, email, write or visit us with your home gardening questions and concerns! 215-345-3283 “Ask a Master Gardener” Penn State Extension Bucks County Neshaminy Manor Center 1282 Almshouse Rd Doylestown, PA 18901 Email: BucksHotline@ag.psu.edu Please mention that you heard about us through the Upper Bucks Free Press!
Baseball for Special People Celebrates Successful Season BY PAUL GERHART,JR. The members of this unique baseball program would like to thank those organizations that donated to them for the 2018 season. This program gives people with physical and mental disabilities an organized baseball program. You can find us on Facebook which will show
When Home Owners Go Separate Ways
- Real Estate Partition Actions -
BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ. In situations where more than one individual owns an interest in real estate, and the owners cannot agree on how to manage the property or whether or not to sell the property, a special legal proceeding called a Partition action may be the best way to resolve the problem. These types of situations occur quite frequently. Take for example, a couple who has purchased a home together but has fallen out of love before marriage; or friends who are joint owners of an investment property but one is moving away and does not want to be involved in the rental business any longer. A Partition action, is an action in equity through which one of the property owners can submit to the court to order the sale of the real estate, even if one owner does not wish to sell. The legal theory behind Partition actions is quite simple: a joint owner in a property can devise his or her ownership interest at any time and receive the proportionate proceeds. While the legal theory is simple, the dynamics of the damaged relationship between the parties may be much more complicated. In a perfect world, the owner who does not wish to sell, would buy out the other owner (via a refinance of the mortgage and a quitclaim deed, or just a quitclaim deed and a contract if no mortgage is involved), however that usually does not happen.
If and when negotiations with the opposing owner reach a stalemate, contact a real estate attorney to help you initiate a Partition action. If you are a owner of the property, you have the right to sell your ownership interest, regardless of what the opposing owner says or does. The worst thing the parties can do is shut down and stop paying the mortgage and taxes. A foreclosure and/or tax lien can be detrimental for both parties for years to come. Partition actions can be a valuable course of action for joint owners of real estate looking to realize on their equity. As with most legal actions, it is not a cheap process, but the parties can end the litigation at any time by coming to an agreement regarding the sale of the property, and thus reducing the fees involved. When the situation calls for it, Partition actions are an efficient way to resolve a dispute between two joint owners who cannot agree on the future of their real estate. Robert E. Fravel, Esq. is a Bucks County solo practitioner located at 123 N. Main Street, Suite 208, in Dublin, Pennsylvania who specializes in estate planning & administration, family law and business law. To set up a consultation, call his office at (267) 227-9138. To learn more, visit his website at www.fravel-law.com
what this program does. Thank you to Haycock Community Center for allowing us to have our picture day at their facility. Our banquet was held at Nase-Kraft Post 255. A big thank you goes out to the staff that did a great job. If interested in donating to this program or being involved call 267-992-4973.
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • August 2018
Anne Victoria Seals, 43, of Elizabethtown, formerly of Quakertown, PA, passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday, July 1, 2018. She will be dearly missed by her wife, Danielle Greenberger, who she has shared her life with since September 8, 1998 and married on February 28, 2015. Anne worked as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for a behavioral health organization. She and Danielle were members of the Treetop Ladies Golf League and were huge fans of the artist P!nk. Anne and Danielle were Dallas Cowboys fans, despite the chagrin of her many friends rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Anne also enjoyed Broadway shows and musical theatre, as well as participating in local community theater productions. She will be fondly remembered as being caring and compassionate, and how her sense of humor and theatrical ways brought joy to everyone she knew. Born in Amarillo, TX, she is the daughter of Thomas and Joyce Seals of Harleysville, PA. In addition to her wife and parents, she is survived by her brother and sister in law Peter and Susan Seals of Queens, NY; extended members of the Seals family; mother in law Linda Brinser; father in law Harry Greenberger and wife Carol Greenberger; god-daughter Chelsea Smith of York; Carey and Nate her loving pets and countless friends who loved her as family. Robert “Pop” Reynolds, 97, of Quakertown died June 28, 2018 in his home. He was the husband of the late Helen E. “Betty” (Chattin) Reynolds. Born in St. Clair, PA he was the son of the late Charles P. & Mae (Devlin) Reynolds. He retired in 1984 from the shipping department of the former U.S. Gauge in Sellersville. He also was employed from 1968-2012 at the Tice Clinic as a maintenance man. Bob was a member of the Quakertown American Legion Post #242 and a member of the Disabled American Veterans. He was also member of the former Quakertown Moose.
~Obituaries~
He was a member of St. Isidore’s Catholic Church in Quakertown. He was a U.S. Army Veteran of WW II serving during the European Theatre. He was a Purple Heart recipient. He is survived by a son Robert (Bernadette), two daughters Kathleen Kulak (Paul) and Lisa Rush. Four grandsons John Wagner (Wendy), Jason Wagner (Cathy), David Rush (Casey) and Brandon Rush (Jenni). Two great grandchildren Jordon Wagner and Caitlin Wagner. Predeceased by a daughter Margaret Ann, son in law David Rush, four brothers, and four sisters. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to DAV at www.dav.org
Ruth R. Kresge, 90, of Quakertown, died peacefully Sun., July 1 in Hidden Meadows, Sellersville with her loving husband of 66 years, Truman F. Kresge by her side. Born in Fountain Hill, she was a daughter of the late Wallace and Elizabeth (Schrantz) Rothrock. Ruth worked for 25 years as a seamstress for the former S. C. Tuttleman, Co., the former Corner House, and Star Systems, all of Quakertown. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Quakertown. Surviving with her husband are a daughter, Barbara “Barbie” Bennett, husband Scott of Athens, son Truman F., Jr. “Teddy” of Quakertown; granddaughter Lynsey Bennett of Ulster; and siblings Wallace, good friend Laura Clymer of Quakertown, Albert, wife Trudy of Center Valley James of Quakertown, Romaine Ziegler, husband Wilmer of Perkasie, and Alverta Fachet, husband Walter of Sellersville. Ruth was predeceased by siblings Ralph, Lorraine, Alvin, Stanley, infant brother Richard and an infant sister. Interment was in Fountain Hill Cemetery. www.nauglefcs.com Fritz B. Schreier, 97 of Quakertown died Monday, July 2 at Phoebe Richland HCC. He was the loving husband of the late Verna A. (Schaffer) Schreier, whom they celebrated 56 years of marriage. Born in Haycock Township, he was a son of the late Curtis and Elsie
(Wendel) Schreier. He worked as a carpenter for Parzych Construction Company, Quakertown for 15 years and was a self-employed home builder in Upper Bucks for 15 years. Fritz attended Springfield Mennonite Church, Pleasant Valley and was a former member of East Swamp Mennonite Church, Quakertown. He served on the Building Committee – Youth Center as Chairman; 8 years as Trustee; 2 terms on Cemetery Committee, and Kitchen Committee. Surviving are his children: Larry, wife Sherri of Sugar Run, PA; Lois Bishop of Mt. Joy, PA; Dave, wife Cindy of Colorado Springs, CO; Mike, wife Diane of Quakertown; Jim of Quakertown; Jeff, wife Jennifer of Center Valley, PA; and Steve, wife Elizabeth “Liz” of Green Lane, 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by siblings: Reinhold, Curtis, Paul and Elsie. Memorial Contributions can be made to Compassion International 12290 Voyager Parkway Colorado Springs, CO 80921 or Samaritan’s Purse PO Box 3000 Boone, NC 28607.
Willard Mitman, 94, of Allentown, formerly of Quakertown died on July 4, 2018 in the Healthcare Center of Luther Crest Retirement Community in Allentown, PA. Born in Quakertown he was the son of Leidy and Blanche (Frey) Mitman. He was the husband of the late Helen (Papciak) Mitman whom he enjoyed 69 years of marriage. Willard was a WWII Veteran, serving in the US Navy, stationed in Newfoundland. He worked for Charles Chips as a route salesman and later as the manager of the Lehigh Valley Division. Willard spent most of his life in the Quakertown area, moving to the Luther Crest Community in Allentown in 2005. He cherished the many friends he made during the 13 years he lived at Luther Crest. He is survived by his son David Mitman (Jo) of Eatonville, WA; daughter Karen Derr (Walter) of Allentown, PA; and son Alan Mitman (Martha) of Summerfield, NC.: Grandchildren: Laurie Brandis (Brian), Michael Gross (Angie); Kelsey Goldstein (Jeff) Kaylyn Mitman and step granddaughter, Lynda Zuercher (Mike) and step grand-daughter in-law Joann Derr. Great-grandchildren: CJ Corner, Mycah Corner, Brianna Gross, Landon Gross and Amelia Goldstein and step grandchildren, Brian Derr (Melissa), Megan Derr (Matt) , Matt Zuercher (Ashley), Alyssa Zuercher, Brayton Brandis and Jillian Brandis. Step Great-great grandchild: Emmie Derr. He is predeceased by a brother, Norwood Mitman, sister, Helen Mitman Ramirez and step grandson, Andrew Derr. Interment was in Quakertown Union Cemetery. Memorial donations can be made to the Andy Derr Foundation for Kidney Cancer Research, 144 Lilac Dr., Allentown, PA 18104 or the Luther Crest Benevolent Care Fund, 800 Hausman Road, Allentown, PA 18104. www.nauglefcs.com Ethel F. Galluppi, 90, of Kintnersville died July 4, 2018 in Phoebe Richland Health Care Center, Richlandtown. She was the wife of the late Peppino Galluppi. Born in Telford, PA she was the daughter of the late Mark & Florence (Fink) Frederick. She was a member of St. Luke Lutheran Church in Ferndale. She is survived by a son Garrett (Susan) of Kintnersville, and a daughter Beverly Gray (Paul) of Solebury. Three brothers Carl, Ernest, and her twin brother Glenn, two sisters Betty Heliger and Stella Smith. Eight grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. Predeceased by four brothers Mark, Robert, Charles, Jay, and a sister Nancy Schroy. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. Luke Lutheran Church 470 Church Hill Rd. Ferndale, PA 18921. Donald L. Mease, 82, of Pennsburg, formerly of Spinnerstown, died Tues. July 10 in St. Luke’s- Bethlehem Hospital. He was the husband of the late Mary E. (Rush) Mease. Born in Quakertown, he was the son of the late Webster and Marian (Brown) Mease. He was a graduate of Quakertown High School and served with the US Army. Don worked for MidGuard as a machinist, went to work for Mack Trucks, and then became a custodian for the Quakertown
Schools and drove school bus part-time for Levy Bus Co. before retiring. He was a member of Chestnut Hill United Church of Christ, Coopersburg and a life member of the Milford Twp. Fire Co. He is survived by children Bruce, wife Sharon of E. Greenville, Susan Hitchcock, husband Kevin of Pennsburg, and Jamie Diemand of Whitehall; grandchildren Brandan Diemand, Brittany Mease, & Tyler Hitchcock.; and a sister, Shirley Schaffer of Quakertown. Interment was in Chestnut Hill Union Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Assoc., P O Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241-7005 or American Diabetes Assoc., P O Box 15829, Arlington, VA 22215 in his memory. www.nauglefcs.com
Elizabeth A. “Betty” Courtney, 79, died Thurs. July 12 in St. Luke’s Quakertown Hospital. She was the widow of Alonzo W. “Al” Courtney. Born in Quakertown, she was the daughter of the late Linford, Jr. and Marguerite (Wolfe) Foulke. She was a graduate of Quakertown High School, Class of ’56 and a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Quakertown. Betty was a student transport driver for Levy Bus Co. before retiring. Surviving are her children Carol M. Heverly, husband Tim, Craig A., wife Karen, and Jon T., wife Joann all of Quakertown; grandchildren Jon T., Jr. (Liz), Tyler, Janelle, Courtney, & Kelsey (Zac); great granddaughter Brynn and another due in Sept. She was predeceased by a brother, Linford “Linnie”, III. Interment was in Quakertown Union Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 102 N. Hellertown Ave., Quakertown, PA 18951. Joseph F. Fischer, 89, of Quakertown died July 15, 2018 in his home. He was the companion of Betty Young of Quakertown and the husband of the late Florence B. (Warris) Fischer & the late Dorothea M. (Grote) Fischer. Born in Richlandtown he was the son of the late Joseph F., Sr. & Florence M. (Swartz) Fischer. He was the 3rd generation owner/proprietor of Fischer’s Tuxedo Headquarters in Quakertown before his retirement. He was a former member of the Quakertown Jaycees where he served as the past President. He was a member of First U.C.C. in Quakertown. Joseph was a U.S. Navy Veteran serving during the Korean War. In addition to his companion he is survived by two sons Brett D. Fischer of Quakertown, Randy D. Steskal (Barbara) of North Carolina, three daughters Barbara A. Horner (Garry) of Quakertown, Beth A. Dankowski (Joe) of Connecticut, and Sherry A. Hamilton ( William) of North Carolina . A sister Mary A. Miller of Elizabethtown. 13 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Predeceased by a son Ricky R. Steskal. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to First UCC 151 S. 4th St. Quakertown, PA 18951 LeRoy Perry Nester, 78, of Lehighton formerly of Royersford died July 16, 2018 in St. Luke’s University Hospital, Bethlehem. Born in Red Hill he was the son of the late Mervin & Elsie (Smith) Nester. He was a tool & die maker before retiring. LeRoy enjoyed fishing. He is survived by a daughter Michele A. Herrmann (Chris) of Quakertown, two brothers Mervin (Shirley) of Delaware, and Phil (Susan) of Maryland. Three grandchildren Amy, Lindsay, and Emily, three great grandchildren Alexis, Christopher, and Benjamin and longtime friend Barbara Boyer. Predeceased by a son Robert, a daughter JoAnn Sailer, a sister Francis Hayes, and a grandchild Tanya. Minnie I. Donohue, 87, of Quakertown formerly of Ottsville died July 23, 2018 in Belle Haven Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center. She was the wife of the late Charles Donohue. Born in Haycock Twsp., she was the daughter of the late Raymond & Vera (Streepy) Litzenberger. She and her late husband co-owned the former Donohue Service Station and General Store in Ottsville. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Ottsville and a member of the Altar-Rosary Society at the church. She is survived by two sons David (Maryann) and Thomas (Marina) both of Kintnersville, two daughters Patricia Mount (Gary) of Florida and Kathleen Lewis of Kintnersville. Five
August 2018 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
~Obituaries~
grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Predeceased by two brothers John & James and two sisters Martha and Mary. A Mass will be held on Friday, July 27, 2018 at 11:30 A.M. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 4050 Durham Rd. Ottsville,
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PA 18942. Call 10:00-11:15 AM in the church. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the church at the above address.
VFW Post 11322 August Update
BY COMMANDER PAUL GERHART The members of John Rivers Memorial VFW Post 11322 would like to thank those businesses that allowed us to collect donations over Memorial Day. With the support of the businesses and the individuals that made donations, we can effectively carry out our mission of “Veterans Helping Veterans.” If you are a Veteran or a Veteran’s family member, our VFW can help you in many ways. If you need our support or help call 215-529-0500 or contact us on our Facebook page. We can help you in a range of different ways. In July, we had our annual ice cream social event. At this event, a student named Dillion Frazier donated his chalk art drawing to the John Rivers Memorial VFW Post 11322. One of our Auxiliary members named Barb Brous won an award for her Poppy Painting. She entered in one of the Department of PA VFW contests. As Commander Gerhart, Jr. of this
post, I will be proud to display this art at the Local VFW. We meet every second Sunday at 1:30. There are various ways to join this nondrinking & smoking VFW. If interested in being a member or supporting us call one of the numbers below and leave a message. John Rivers Memorial VFW Post 11322 and American Legion Post 242 did a joint color guard for the Sarah Parvin soccer event. Both organizations are able to perform a color guard for the community. If needed, feel free to contact one of these organizations. John Rivers Memorial VFW Post 11322 is a post that is preserving history. We are in the process of displaying uniforms from different eras on mannequins in the post. On Friday, August 24th at 6 pm. we will be putting pictures of historical meaning together. If you have an hour or two to help, call me and leave a message at 215-529-0500 or 267-992-4973.
American Legion Post 242 Summer Update BY DICK HELM Phil Fachet (90), Kenneth (Salty) Martin (91), & Warren (Bud) Wisler (95) recently passed away. These older gentlemen once stood erect and with pride (in their teens or early 20’s) as they served their country. Your American Legion Honor Guard gave a final salute to them as their American Flag draped coffin lay at the cemetery as their final call to Taps was played. I personally knew these fine men. Phil and I as well as Warren planned and held “Flintlock” shoots at Milford Fish & Game. I remember “Salty” as a realtor and seeing him at many community functions involving youth and sports. My last visits with Phil were at Life Quest in celebration of his 90th birthday and delivering a birthday card from the members of Milford Fish and Game. My last visit with “Salty” was at Independence Court when I gave a talk recently on my columns in this paper on how it was in Q-town back in the day. My last visit with Bud was when I gave him a history of his WWII division when he served so bravely. All three veterans were in very good spirits. I recalled a story with Phil & Warren of an incidence that took place at a Flintlock shoot in Hellertown where a person fired with his powder nearby and a spark sent his powder can flying singeing a feather in his cap. Both gentlemen laughed heartily! I am the proud owner of two flintlocks that “Bud” held dear and offered to sell them a few years back. Salty and his wife spent time with
me after my talk at Independence Court talking about Quakertown in past years. All these moments and hand-crafted items will be treasured the rest of my life. Whatever the weather or length of time waiting for the Funeral Procession to arrive; it was indeed an honor to be one of those who gave a final salute to these honored veterans. When you see a veteran in his or her late years, it is hard to imagine them running to battle stations or going up the beaches in Italy carrying a B.A.R.(Browning Automatic Rifle) with heavy fire all around. A thin, physically fit young person serving his country to protect their freedom and families back home. This was all behind them and those last moments I spent with them were cheerful and will always be remembered. The Ceremony at Graveside shall begin! Honor Guard prepare to fire, half right face, port arms, ready, aim, fire-ready, aim, fireready, aim fire. Present Arms! (Taps is played) A member of our Honor Guard presents 3 spent rounds representing the Veteran’s devotion to “Duty” “Honor” “Country.” Our mission is complete and when we leave the cemetery the feeling in our hearts is indescribable. These Veterans were our Brothers! I will tell about the medal presentation that took place at our Post and about the Veteran’s drawing in the next issue. I felt the above was important to express to you so next time you attend a funeral with Military Honors you will understand the seriousness of that ceremony.
How Can You Help Your Kids Pay for College? It’s still summer, but we’re getting close to a new school year. One day, though, “back-to-school” will mean “off to college” for your children. Will you be financially prepared to help your kids cope with the costs of higher education? Your first step, of course, is to know what you’re up against, so here are some numbers: For the 2017-18 academic year, college costs (tuition, fees, room and board) were, on average, nearly $21,000 for in-state students at four-year, public schools and nearly $47,000 for students attending private colleges or universities, according to the College Board. And you can probably expect even bigger price tags in the years to come. To help prepare for these costs, you might want to consider putting your money in a vehicle specifically designed to help build assets for college, such as a 529 education savings plan. All withdrawals from 529 plans are free from federal income taxes as long as the beneficiary you’ve named uses the money for qualified college, trade school or graduate school expenses. Withdrawals for expenses other than qualified education expenditures may be subject to federal, state and penalty taxes on the earnings portion of your plan. (However, tax issues for 529 savings plans can be complex, so please consult your tax advisor before investing.) You can generally invest in the 529 savings plan offered by any state, but if you invest in your own state’s plan, you may be able to claim a tax deduction or receive a tax credit. By starting your 529 plan early, when your children are just a few years old, the investments within the plan have more time for
potential growth. Plus, you can make smaller contributions each year, rather than come up with big lump sums later on. A 529 plan is not the only education-savings tool you can use, but it has proven effective for many people. Yet you may also want to consider ways to keep college costs down in the first place. For one thing, your children may be eligible for various forms of financial aid. Some types of aid depend on your family’s income, but others, such as merit-based scholarships, are open to everyone. But you don’t have to wait until you get an offer from a school’s financial aid office – you can explore some opportunities on your own. For example, many local and national civic and religious groups offer scholarships to promising young people, and your own employer may even provide some types of grants or assistance. Plus, your state also may offer other benefits, such as financial aid or scholarship funds. It can certainly take some digging to find these funding sources, but the effort can be worthwhile. Here’s another option for reducing college costs: Consider sending your child to a local community college for two years to get many of the “general” requirements out of the way before transferring to a four-year school for a bachelor’s degree. Community colleges are typically quite affordable, and many of them offer high-quality programs. A college degree is costly, but many people feel it’s still a great investment in their children’s future. And by taking the appropriate steps, you can help launch that investment. submitted by Bob Podraza in the Edward Jones office on West Broad Street, Quakertown. He can be reached at 215-536-3635 or at bob.podraza@edwardjones.com
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • August 2018
The Devil Went Down to Quakertown!
Music legend Charlie Daniels performed in Quakertown at the Univest Performance Center on July 12. The band delighted the crowd of 1300 with favorites such as “Simple Man” and “The Devil Went Down to Georgia”. photo by michele buono Marshall Tucker and his band rocked it to a full house at the Univest Performance Center on June 28. photo by michele buono
Block Party Raises $4800 for QCO
Reptiles Visit the Library
St. Johns Lutheran Richlandtown presented a check for $4,815.98 on July 15 to Quakertown Community Outreach (QCO). This was the proceeds from St John’s Summer Block Party Fundraiser held to benefit the organization. Pictured: (l-r) St John’s Pastor Kat Steinly, Charlie Hafler - Block Party Co-Leader, Dana Kershne - QCO, Stacey Moises - QCO, Dave Hammerschmidt - QCO President, Rosie Wimmer Block Party Co-Leader This was the third consecutive year of raising funds for QCO with the total donation to QCO just topping the $10,000 mark.” submitted photo
The 4H program offers programs at many local libraries to help children have different educational experiences. Several members of Scales & Tails, the Bucks County reptile club, took on the role of 4H ambassadors and brought their pets to the library for a show and event. Members brought their reptiles and spoke to the public about care of their reptiles. This brought a group of young children who were eager to see these interesting creatures. There was a leopard gecko, crested gecko, corn snake, a hinge back tortoise, a snapping turtle, water dragon, a blue tailed skink, and several bearded dragons. Members of the community received an opportunity to pet some of these creatures.” The Scales & Tails 4H ambassadors for the day were (l-r) Kaitlyn DeLeo, Savanna Steinbacher, Nick DeLeo, Darrin Hunsburger, Emily Miller, Brianna Hunsburger, Elven Paulus and Sienna Draus. submitted photo
Another Great Qu
No one does the Fourth of July quite like a small town breakfast served up by Borough Council, food vendo
Three year old Cecelia Sullivan just received her “badge” and poses with Quakertown Police Officer Benjamin Moller. photo by michele buono
Army Spc. Christopher Alexander spent hi a 9 month deployment to Kuwait at Quak Pictured with his mom Dolores Alexander a
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BuckyGrams: balk, batter up, bunt, diamond, double play, load the bases, full count, ground ball, hit and run, on-deck, pinch hitter, relief pitcher Hidden Message: Take me out to the ball game! Bucky Block: fallen arches
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August 2018 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
Quakertown High School Hosts Chef Camp
Students in Chris Polk's Advanced Chef's Camp at Quakertown Community High School created and served a great lunch this afternoon under the guidance of Polk, an amazing chef and one of the district's outstanding educators! They put together a pop-up restaurant, Panther on Park, and fed eight district employees. The meal included a Summer Salad, Caprese Flatbread, Surf & Turf, and Creme Brulee. photos by gary weckselblatt
uakertown Borough Community Day!
n. Quakertown’s Community Day celebration truly brings the community together beginning with the traditional pancake ors, civic groups, a car show, baseball, music, dance, and a firefighters battle - Quakertown does the Fourth up right.
is last day on leave after kertown’s Community Day. and Mike Thompson. photo by michele buono
Borough Council Members rustle up the traditional Community Day pancake breakfast. Councilmen Mike Johnson, Dave Wilsey, Doug Propst, and Jon Sell. photo by michele buono
This patriotic family was patiently waiting in the pancake line.
photo by michele buono
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • August 2018
Employment Opportunities
New Vitae Wellness & Recovery - Hiring for a variety of jobs from maintenance to client care. Visit goo.gl/e2BRMY to view opportunities. You’ve Got Maids - Hiring commercial nighttime cleaners & daytime residential cleaners. (215) 529-7837 Upper Bucks YMCA - P/T Member Service Associate, Assistant Swim Teach Coach, Swim Lesson Deck Supervisor. All include full Y membership. Call 215-536-YMCA (9622) or stop in to apply at 401 Fairview Avenue, Quakertown. Geoff’s Towing & Garage - Professional tow truck operators. Neat appearance, courtesy and professionalism is a must! Rollback operators, Medium and Heavy-Duty Wrecker drivers with Class A. Must have medical card. FT/ PT positions available. Send resumes to geoffstowspeed@ aol.com or call 267-733-2690 Independence Court - Senior Personal Care Community is seeking a part-time evening and every other weekend wait staff to join our team. Responsibilities include setting and clearing tables and serving meals to residents in a courteous and professional
manner. Apply in person at 1660 Park Ave. Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-7050 E.O.E. Kulp Roofing & Construction Seeking a window, gutter, and siding installer. Carpentry skills a plus, reliability a must! Willing to train right individual. Compensation depends upon experience. Also hiring for our sales team. Applications accepted at our office at 216 D Apple Street, Quakertown. Questions? Call (215) 538-0618.
Classic Staffing Under New Ownership, Continues Legacy of Client Service
After 20 years away, Jill Hopson returns to Government and Law and a Masters of Public her home town and purchases an established Administration from NYU. As a consultant, staffing agency, with the hope of employing she traveled all over the US and returns with a sense of purpose. even more. “It is nice to be back in a small community, After two decades away, gaining knowledge and experience as a consultant for both my community,” Hopson states, “A staffing government and medical applications, Jill firm is still a mix of public service and business, where I may Hopson returns to further my client Quakertown. As companies’ growth the brand new as well as help peoowner of long estabple find meaningful lished staffing firm, employment.” Classic Staffing Classic Staffing Services, Hopson partners with manlooks forward to ufacturing and holding the reins of service businesses a company 35 years in their human in the making for 35 resource efforts. more. Under Hopson’s Severe shortages leadership, with of workers, proba new move to lems within today’s larger offices, the workforce, and the introduction of new need for commutechnologies, and a nity involvement push towards more have all propelled community engageHopson to take ment, the newly on ownership of female-run agency Classic Staffing brings a unique new Services. She is modern edge to the excited to tackle existing relationthese issues while ships in the Lehigh increasing employValley and Bucksment levels even further as the com- The Classic Staffing Team in front of their new office. Mont areas. Learn more about pany’s first female (l-r) Business owner Jill Hobson, Kathy Maitz, Michele Kalapos, Janet Beckman, Michelle Crespo Rivera Classic Staffing CEO. Prior to running Classic Staffing Services, Services at www.classicstaffingservice.com, Hopson lived in Hoboken NJ, Washington by calling 215.538.1198, or stop in their DC, and Philadelphia PA. She has an un- office at Third and West Broad Streets in dergraduate degree from Lafayette College in Downtown Quakertown.
Spor’s General Store Hiring cook and waitstaff PT. Evenings and weekends likely. Respond to bspor@sporsgeneralstore.com or stop in the store at 22 W. Broad Street, Trumbauersville. Classic Hair Designs Established salon seeking experienced stylists, nailtechnician, and massage therapist. If you are a motivated & creative artist looking for a new place to express your talents we would like to meet you! Send your resume to classichairdesigns1@gmail.com. We use top quality products and offer education, paid vacation, flexibility and a relaxing atmosphere to work.
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local. Employment Support Group Presents Free Seminar
If you’re seeking employment or are in a career transition, you are invited to join the Employment Support Group (ESG), a ministry of New Hope Community Church. The group is hosting a free seminar featuring guest presenter Shawn Davis entitled, “Interviewing and Securing a Position with Startup Companies and Family Businesses” from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM, on August 6th at Thompson Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1680 Aquetong Road, New Hope, PA 18938. Shawn Davis, an entrepreneurial specialist, will explore the “how-to” job search process
to secure a position with family businesses and start-up companies. Shawn has had a career spanning over 30 years primarily in the gourmet and specialty food/beverage areas. ESG’s mission is to renew hope and faith by exchanging ideas, networking, providing job search skills, prayer, and a supportive environment to help meet employment goals. The group is facilitated by Len and Christina Deane who have extensive management and support ministry experience. Meetings are held the 1st and 3rd Monday each month. Please contact Len at DeaneL70@verizon.net for more information.
The Upper Bucks Free Press is made possible by the businesses and organizations you see on these pages. Remember to thank them for supporting your community’s voice.
August 2018 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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The answers to the puzzles on this page are found elsewhere in this issue.
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.
Michener Art Museum to Host Two-Day 30th Anniversary Celebration in September
Barracuda Beetle Bison Blackhawk Bluebird Bronco Charger Cheetah Cobra
Cougar Fox Gazelle Honeybee Impala Jaguar Lark Marlin
Mustang Pinto Rabbit Ram Roadrunner Sable Skylark
Spider Stag Stingray Superbee Thunderbird Viper Wasp Wildcat
To commemorate the Michener Art Museum’s 30th anniversary, the museum will host a two-day celebration during the weekend of September 15-16, 2018. “30 Years: An Evening in Black & White,” a black tie-optional benefit event, will take place on Saturday, September 15 from 7 pm to midnight. The benefit will be followed by “An Afternoon in Color,” a free community day, on Sunday, September 16 from noon until 5 pm. Taking place exactly thirty years to the day the Michener first opened its doors, “30 Years: An Evening in Black & White” will bring the community together for an evening in two acts: the White-Out Party, where guests will enjoy specialty cocktails and fare by Catering by Design, followed by the BlackOut Ball, an after-party featuring desserts, dancing, and live music courtesy of the Central City Orchestra. Tickets are available at $275 per person for the entire evening or $100 per person for the Black-Out Ball only.
For tickets, visit MichenerArtMuseum.org. For sponsorship information, contact Laurie McGahey at lmcgahey@michenerartmuseum.org or 215.340.9800 x161. Families and museum-goers of all ages are invited to participate in “An Afternoon in Color” on September 16, a free community day filled with workshops, musical performances, and docent-led tours of the exhibitions on view, including 30 Years: Art at the Michener, 1988 - 2018 (September 15, 2018 - January 6, 2019), American Moderns: The Legacy of Gerry and Marguerite Lenfest (through October 21, 2018), and Impressions on Paper: Henry Snell (July 14 - November 11, 2018). On this day, in recognition of the Michener’s anniversary, admission to the neighboring Mercer Museum will also be free. For more information about these anniversary and other museum events, visit MichenerArtMuseum.org or call 215.340.9800.
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • August 2018
Harley’s Haven The Five Most Common Summer Hazards for Dogs
Meet Louisa!
This pint-sized pitty girl with the best ears is waiting for you! She is a little shy of new people, but knows how to snuggle, and worm her way right into your heart! She is sweet, wonderful, and mellow - she would do best as an only dog, or with another very mellow friend! Contact us today for more info about this adorable little lady!
Meet Beezus!
Red alert for adorableness!! Beezus is a doll baby!! She is recovering from a pretty severe skin infection, but is doing great and recovering well! She is a terrier mix about 9 months old, loves other dogs and all people! She has this amazing little personality where she is unassuming, but adorable and sweet in her gentle request for your approval! She loves to snuggle and play, and adores other dogs!
If you are looking for a furever friend, give Harley’s Haven a call at (267) 354-5204.
I don’t know if you remember my previous column about the new building going on in Quakertown but nothing has changed. Besides all the mattress store, drug stores and urgent cares we have Lehigh Valley Hospital throwing their hat in the ring too. I didn’t realize that Quakertown people were planning on getting so sick. They are even building a new hospital! I am going to be one busy therapy puppy. Here is a picture of me with my human grandpa at the VA home in Spring City, PA. It is just 26 miles from here so I will be visiting there too. Hope you all stay healthy. Love, MJ
comfortable! Licking their lips, avoiding eye contact, or more obviously growling, can be warning signs that your dog is uncomfortable and that can lead to a fight! Keep your dogs in a leash in a public space, and be responsible! This is another easy one to avoid if you are careful and know your dog! 4. Bee stings and bug bites – Dogs can have reactions to bee stings or other bug bites, just like us! This can range from a mild discomfort and bite, to a more severe reaction with facial swelling, hives, or even difficulty breathing! If they have a severe reaction this is an emergency and you should contact your vet immediately! If they have a more mild sensitivity, check the bite to ensure no stinger is still present, clean it with a mild soap, and apply a triple antibiotic ointment like Neosporin – it should clear up within a few days. 5. Dietary indiscretion – dogs eat stuff, that is what they do! Most of the time, no big deal – but be careful here! Corn on the cob is a big one – that can cause a GI obstruction which is an emergency! But dogs can also get severe diarrhea or other GI upset from eating meats or cheeses, or other rich foods. This can lead to pancreatitis too, which often needs hospitalization to clear up! So be careful offering rich human foods to dogs who are not used to it! Dr. Mehaffey and partner Dr. Jen Heller own and operate the Pennridge Animal Hospital on Ridge Road in Perkasie and can be reached at 267-272-9996. They also founded Harley’s Haven Dog Rescue.
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local. Foundations Community Partnership Presents Grant to Opportunity Council
Mental Exercise?
Looking for a way to keep your dog mentally stimulated on these dog days of summer? It’s easy; exercise his mind! Mental exercise like trick training is just as exhausting as physical exercise. Baby pools and shade is what your dog is looking for to cool down. But that’s not enough to tire him out. Regular mental and physical exercise means dogs have fewer health and behavior problems. When you marry the two of them together, you get a pooped pup. But many of our dogs are getting the short end of the stick when it comes to exercising their minds. Trick training is fantastic fun for all skill levels, ages and types of dogs. Kids and adults can all join in the fun. Most Trick Classes don’t require prior training. If your dog can tolerate a group trick class environment, why not join in on the fun fad? While canine whiz kids such as poodles and border collies will pick up things quickly, any dog will catch on if you’re patient, consistent, and encouraging. You can teach tricks one at a time or a couple at once, as long as you and your dog are hav-
The five most common summer hazards for dogs Summer means we are all outside more, we are going places and doing things with our pups, and that also means an increase in trips to the vet!! Here is a list of a few of the most common hazards in the summer months…stay safe out there people! 1. Ticks – ticks are the worst!! They are gross, unnecessary, and carry some pretty yucky diseases like Lyme disease! Keep your pups protected this summer with a good flea/ tick preventative every month, and talk with your vet about if your dog is a good candidate for the lyme vaccine. When out in the woods, be sure to check your dog thoroughly and give regular baths to ensure they aren’t picking up any parasites! 2. Heat stroke – I HATE this one! Please people – DO NOT ever leave your dog in a parked car! Even on a day that is in the 70s, a car in the sun can reach 80-90 degrees quickly, and that can be deadly. Short-nosed dogs are especially susceptible, so on hot days please don’t leave them outside for more than a few minutes, makes sure they have access to water, and watch them closely for sudden struggling to breathe or lethargy! This is an easy one to prevent, be vigilant and careful. 3. Dog fights – we see this one A LOT. Be careful with meeting new dog friends – take it slow, and watch for cues that your dog is not
ing fun. If you get frustrated, stop. Some dogs are better at some tricks than others. A small, agile terrier may find jumping through hoops easier than a bulldog would. And a retriever is probably more willing to hold things in his mouth than is a Pekinese. A basset hound can probably roll over but may find begging a little hard, being a little topheavy. So think about your dog’s form and aptitudes before you start. You may notice something special your dog does that would be entertaining if you can get him to do it on command. You can. Give it a name, use that word when he’s most likely to do his thing, and praise him for “obeying.” He’ll make the connection soon enough. If your dog shows a true aptitude and is the friendly easygoing sort, you might find that joining a pet therapy group can be something you’ll both enjoy, an activity that gives your dog a job while brightening the lives of other people. Submitted by Marion C. O’Neil CPDT-KA, CTDI owner and trainer of Molasses Creek Dog Training of Quakertown, and trainer for Runaway Farm Pet Hospital, Pennsburg
Bucks County Opportunity Council (BCOC) has received a grant from Foundations Community Partnership for its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA). The grant, which is part of Foundations Community Partnerships Capital Improvement Grant Program, will provide $10,000 to the Opportunity Council to purchase new computers and printers for the VITA program. The VITA program trains and certifies individuals to prepare federal and state income tax returns for low-income families. The Opportunity Council has operated the VITA program here in Bucks County for over 14 years. In 2018, the VITA program was staffed in four different locations, Quakertown, Warminster, Newtown and Levittown. Last
tax season, the Opportunity Council volunteers completed over 1200 federal tax returns. “We are very excited to receive this grant from Foundations Community Partnership,” explained Eileen Albillar, Volunteer and Community Connections Manager at the BCOC. “This grant will give us the opportunity to purchase new equipment for the program as we continue to serve more low-income families here in Bucks.” In order to qualify for the VITA program, families must have made $54,000 or less annually last year. For more information about Foundations Community Partnership, visit www.fcpartnership.org. To volunteer and learn more about VITA and the Bucks County Opportunity Council, click on www.bcoc.org.
August 2018 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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Local Parks Highlighted During Parks and Recreation Month
Quakertown and Richland Township were highlighted on July 19 as part of Parks and Recreation month when PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn visited three local parks. State Rep. Craig Staats of the 145th District, Richland Township and Quakertown officials joined Sec. Dunn on the tour. “Communities across Pennsylvania recognize that local parks and recreation opportunities contribute to a high quality of life and attract and sustain employers and families,” Dunn said. “Local parks provide close-to-home nature and recreation that is always free or affordable.” Dunn’s first stop was the new Great Blue Heron Park at 3202 Dovecote Drive in Richland Township, which is the trailhead for the Brayton Garden Trail that connects to the Pennsylvania Highlands Trail Network and Quakertown to the north, with future plans to connect to a trail in Milford Township to the West. The second stop of the day was the Quakertown Action Park at 676 South Main Street. Quakertown Action Park is a local initiative working to transform Main Street Park, the skate park and surrounding areas, into a state-of-the-art Action Sports recreation and training facility that benefits youth and the community at large. DCNR provided a $250,000 investment in the project. Pastor Dave Kratz of East Swamp Church and chairman of the Quakertown Action Park Committee, spoke on the efforts of revitalizing
the Borough’s skate park and invited people to look over the plans for the finished park area. The park hosts events highlighting BMX biking, skateboarding, basketball, and extreme scootering. The 10th annual Free Fall event is set for September 22. Finally, officials gathered at Quakertown Borough’s newest recreation area, the Park at 4th. The park is home to the Univest Performance Center, the Borough’s venue for it summer concert series. This summer, musical acts such as Tommy James, the Marshall Tucker Band, and Charlie Daniels have performed with Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone and the Little River Band playing this month. DCNR provided a $250,000 Keystone Grant for the amphitheater. “Just at these three parks in upper Bucks County we can see the breadth of amenities that local parks and recreation provide to communities – trail connections to other places and networks; opportunities for young people to be active and engaged in positive behavior; and gathering spots for cultural and other activities,” Dunn said. The source of funding for the DCNR grants in the Keystone Fund, currently celebrating 25 years of supporting thousands of community improvements in the commonwealth. In Pennsylvania, outdoor recreation generates $29.1 billion in consumer spending, $1.9 billion in state and local tax revenue, $8.6 billion in wages and salaries, and sustains 251,000 direct Pennsylvania jobs.
(above) DCNR Sec. Cindy Adams Dunn speaks on the importance of parks in Pennsylvania while visiting Quakertown Action Park. (below) State and local officials tour local parks to celebrate Parks
and Recreation Month.
photos by michele buono
How to Determine If a Home Is Really Worth Its Listed Value Determining the accurate value of a home can often be a difficult task. If you’re looking to buy a new home, there are some factors that you should be aware of that can help you decide whether or not a particular listing is really worth its value. Here are four ways to find out if a home’s price is really worth that much: Home Inspection Results Hiring a licensed home inspector is definitely something you’ll want to do before agreeing to the sale. This person can check the condition of the home and look for damage that may diminish its value. An inspector’s job is to go over every element of a home with a fine-tooth comb so that no important details are missed—this includes examining a home’s attic and basement. You’ll be given a report after the inspection is completed. Review Current Market Conditions The current trends of the local housing market can greatly impact a home’s value. If it’s a seller’s market, you may decide that the house you want to buy is overpriced. Getting a home in an area with a buyer’s market can land you a better deal. Some websites that list current market conditions will let you know what the market is expected to do over the next year. You can also review market conditions from previous years to see if the current trends are likely to remain consistent.
Comparable Sales in the Area Look for information about other homes sold in the area that are similar to the one you’re thinking of buying. Reviewing the listing prices and what the homes actually sold for will help you determine if you’re getting a fair deal. It’s also important to know the dates when the sales took place so that you can take current housing market conditions into consideration. One of the best ways to find information about local home sales is to search online— many sites will provide these details. You can also ask your real estate agent about similar homes that sold in the neighborhood. Amenities The amenities can make a major difference in a home’s value. It’s obvious to expect that a house with more up-to-date amenities will be priced higher. Amenities can include new windows and a washing machine, as well as a swimming pool and hot tub. Just because a home has more amenities, however, doesn’t mean that it’ll be worth your investment to pay more. Odd amenities or ones that you likely won’t use may be inflating the home’s value, which does little good for you. It’s best to review the specific amenities and try to determine how much they’re adding to the home’s price before submitting your offer. Knowing what a home should be worth can help you make the smartest decision when it comes to buying. By taking the time to do the necessary footwork, you might save yourself a lot of money on your real estate investment. Sue Deily has been a Realtor® for 33 years, resides in the Upper Bucks Area and enjoys serving her clients in Bucks, Lehigh and Montgomery Counties. Contact her at suesellshouses@gmail.com or 215-872-9865.
Upper Bucks YMCA Interns Recognized
The Upper Bucks YMCA expresses sincere gratitude to its summer interns, Lani and Sheyenne. Lani, attending Bucks County Community College as a nursing major in the Fall, is a Pre-K Camp counselor. Her favorite thing to do is read with the kids. Sheyenne, who has just finished Tech School for Baking, is working in our Kids Korner Babysitting. She loves getting to work with the kids! submitted photo
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • August 2018
Souvenir Shopping on the French Riviera
A trip to the French Riviera remains, for most folks, a once in a lifetime dream vacation. So, when you find yourself jet-setting in locales that are the wellknown playgrounds of the rich and famous, how do you purchase souvenirs at reasonable prices? Amid the fast cars, palatial buildings, and massive yachts, buying a t-shirt for 50 euros seems like a cheap alternative in Monte Carlo or St. Tropez. What do you do if you are looking to collect something of significance at reasonable prices? Stick to your budget and shop like a pro. When shopping for souvenirs, it is important to learn about the place you are visiting. Learn about its history, culture, customs, and try to understand what makes it famous before you arrivve. For instance, St. Tropez came of age in the 1950s when Bridget Bardot and other A List celebs vacationed there. Today, it remains an enviable vacation locale. The most famous film industry insiders, captains of industry, and the ultra-wealthy regard St. Tropez as a hot spot. It follows that art and items associated with historic movie stars are easy to find souvenirs from St. Tropez. St. Tropez is located within the French region of Provence. Provence is known for its fine art painters and world class sculptors, colorful functional pottery pieces, country French toile and other printed textiles, melodic cicada bugs, and lavender fields. If you want to collect something traditional from St. Tropez, take home an inexpensive lavender sachet (about 4 euros) or a printed cotton tablecloth (about 25 euros). They are fine reminders of
this chic town on the French Riviera and they won’t break your bank account. In Monte Carlo (a.k.a., Charles’ Mount), Monaco, souvenirs associated with Princess Grace, Prince Rainier, their famous children, and other members of the famous Grimaldi family are always popular. Objects that reflect the history of circa 1950s Hollywood starlet turned princess, nee Grace Kelly, are immortalized in all types of Monte Carlo souvenirs ranging from posters to mugs to cabinet plates. At the cathedral in Monte Carlo—the site of the royal wedding in 1956—visitors will not only have an opportunity to pay their respects at the tombs of the prince and princess but they will be able to view a litany of 16th and 17th Century French paintings on display there. Of course, Monte Carlo is home to the exciting Grand Prix. Collectibles relating to the great race come in many shapes, sizes, and price ranges. Caps, keychains, and magnets featuring the world’s fastest cars like Ferrari, Lambourgini, and Buggatti are available in Monte Carlo’s tourist shops at very reasonable prices. If you are traveling to the French Riviera, remember to download your French translation app, bring cash in euros to negotiate like a pro and know the history of the region so you can capitalize on the most appropriate souvenirs. Dr. Lori Verderame is the author, Ph.D. antiques appraiser, and award-winning TV personality who appears on History channel’s #1 show, The Curse of Oak Island. With a Ph.D. from Penn State University and vast appraisal experience, Dr. Lori presents appraisal events to worldwide audiences and in-home sessions with clients nationwide. Visit www.DrLoriV. com or call (888) 431-1010.
Have something to share with your community? Send us the details! info@ubfp.org • fax: 215-839-3421 • 582 S. West End Blvd• Quakertown, PA 18951
Ongoing Events & Resources SUMMER CONCERT SCHEDULES Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd, 215-536-4115 (7/7 Alex Mery & Townsmen 12noon-2pm) (7/8 Skip & Chickie 11:30am2:30pm) (7/14 We’re From Antarctica 2pm-5pm) (7/21 Kara Hartzell & George Young 11am-1pm) (7/22 Dizaster Horse 12noon-3pm) (7/28 Iron Core Banned 12noon-3pm & 6pm8pm) (7/29 Low Totem 11am-1pm) Quakertown Amphitheater, 4th & Mill St, 215-536-5001 (8/12 Brian Dean Moore Band) (8/19 Midnight Shift) (8/26 Quakertown Band) FREE event, 6:30pm-8:30pm, r/d Monday. Perkasie Menlo Park, 215-257-5065 (8/1 River of Dreams) (8/8 r/d if needed) FREE event, 7pm-9pm. Concert Sundaes 7pm at Souderton Community Park, Wile Ave & Reliance Rd, (7/29 Chico’s Vibe) (8/5 The Doobie Others) If rainy concert moves indoors to Indian Crest Middle Sch, 139 Harleysville Pike. Al Reese Park, 100 W Park Ave, Silverdale. (7/22 Hearts Club Band, r/d 7/29) (8/12 Quakertown Band, r/d 8/19) Refreshments for purchase. FREE event, 2pm-4pm. Drive-In Movies at Christ Lutheran, One Luther Ln, Trumbauersville, 215-536-3193 (8/3-Black Panther) (8/10-Coco, also free potluck dinner 6:30pm w/this show, call for details) Burgess Foulke House, Quakertown Histor. Soc. open Wed thru Sat 12noon-3pm through August. Group tours arranged at 267-227-3864 or historicquakertown@gmail.com. Tours include: Museum, Liberty Hall & Burgess Foulke House. Now to Oct 27 – Award winning Perkasie Farmers Mkt, Saturdays 9am-12noon at 7th & Market Sts (produce, baked goods, plants, crafts, local musician & fun family activities) Morning storytime activities for infants thru age 6 at Samuel Pierce Library in Perkasie. Call 215-257-9718 for specific days, times & age group for your child. Allentown Art Museum is Free every Sunday, 12noon-4pm. Located at 31 N Fifth St, Allentown Job Seekers No Cost Workshops 1st & 3rd Monday every month, 7pm-9pm at Thompson Memorial Presbyterian, 1680 Aquetong Rd, New Hope PA. Contact Len Deane Jr. at DeaneL70@ Verizon.net. All are welcome!
Hoagie Sales 2nd Mon of month (except July/ August) Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 North Main St. Advance Orders Only due Wed. before. $5.50-$6.00, Order: Kim 215-536-1998 or bucks58fire.com Petco Adoption Day, 1st Sat of month, 1pm4pm. Petco, 242 N West End Blvd, Quakertown, 215-892-9007, lastchanceranch.org PetSmart Adoption Day is 2nd Sat of month, 11am-2pm. PetSmart, 620 N.West End Blvd, Quakertown, 215-538-2843, lastchanceranch. org Last Chance Ranch Volunteer Orientation/ Tour, 1st Sat of month, 10am-11am in front of Horse Barn, 9 Beck Rd, Quakertown, 215-5382510, lastchanceranch.org
Veteran Organizations & Activities
Forrest Lodge VFW, 2118 Old Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville. All veterans invited to join. Call Frank 215-679-7770 John Rivers Memorial VFW Post 11322 meets 1:30pm, 2nd Sun of month, 41 Belmont Ave, Quakertown, All Vets welcome, 267-3719636 (bring DD 214 for proof eligibility) American Legion Post 210 meets 7:30pm, 1st Mon of month at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown. All Vets welcome, doylestownpost210.org Meghan’s Foundation Yoga Class for Veterans meets 6pm every Wed at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown. All Vets welcome, meghansfoundation.org VFW Post 175 meets 7pm, 2nd Mon of month at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown. doylestownpost175vfw.org Central Bucks Detachment Marine Corps League (MCL) meets 7:30pm, 2nd Wed of month at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown. All Marines welcome. American Legion Post 210 Auxillary meets 1pm, 3rd Sun of month at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) meets 7:30pm, 3rd Mon of month at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 17 meets 6pm, 4th Mon of month at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown. davmembersportal.org/ chapters/pa/17/default.aspx
Support & Service Groups
Singles Connection for Adults meets 7pm Thursdays for social evening at Silverdale Brethren in Christ Church, 165 W. Main St, Silverdale. 215-593-9995, carolonline1@verizon.net Sisters U Monthly Meetings 3rd Thurs of month, 7pm-9pm in Perkasie. 267-429-3196, stef@sistersu.com, AARP meets 1:30pm, 2nd Mon of month at Upper Bucks Activity Ctr, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown. 215-536-3066, upperbucksac.org Family Education Program on Addiction meets 1st three Mondays monthly, 7pm at Presbyterian Church Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. Facilitators provide guidebook on understanding addiction, impact on family, next steps, support networks. Regis: 1-800-221-6333SOS Bereavement After Suicide, Family Support Group at St. Luke’s Quakertown Hospital twice monthly, Details 215-536-5143 Compassionate Friends Support Group (loss of children, siblings) meets 7:30pm-9pm the 2nd Tue of month. St. Luke’s Hosp, 1021 Park Ave, Quakertown. (Taylor Conf. Rms A & B) tcfquakertownpa.org or 267-380-0130 Brain Injury Family/Spousal/Partner Support Group 6pm-8pm the 3rd Monday of month. First UCC, 4th & Park Ave, Quakertown, 215-538-3488 Caregiver Support Group meets last Thurs. of month. Independence Court of Quakertown, 1660 Park Ave. RSVP: 215-541-9030 to attend a meeting. Ann Silverman Community Health Clinic (for uninsured eligible residents), 595 W State St, Doylestown. Call to schedule an eligibility appt. 215-345-2260. aschealthclinic.org Alzheimer’s Support Group at Phoebe Richland Health Care Ctr, 108 S. Main St, Richlandtown. Free, details: Social Services 267-371-4517, nkoval@phoebe.org NOVA (Network Of Victim Assistance) Support Groups, NOVA hotline 1-800-675-6900, NOVABucks.org
Bedminster Nar-Anon meets Tues 7pm, Deep Run West Mennonite, 1008 Deep Run Rd, Perkasie, (family/friends of those struggling w/ addiction) Bedminster.naranon@yahoo.com A Woman’s Place (support for domestic abuse/violence) 24-hour Hotline 1-800-220-8116, www.awomansplace.org UB Kiwanis meets 1st Wed of month 7:30am at Panera Bread, 4th Wed of month 12:30pm at Dominick’s Pizza, Quakertown Quakertown Lions Club meets 2nd & 4th Wed of month, 7pm at John’s Plain & Fancy Restaurant, Quakertown Quakertown Rotary Club meets (1st & 3rd Tues 7:30am at John’s Plain & Fancy Restaurant) (2nd, 4th, & 5th Tues 6pm at Spinnerstown Hotel) Business Networking International (BNI) meets Thurs 7am-8:30am at John’s Plain & Fancy in Quakertown. Membership info: James Dodson – jamescovie@yahoo.com
Community Meals
Free Community Meal 2nd, 4th, & 5th Wed of month, 6pm. Richland Friends Quaker Meeting, Mill Rd & Main St (off Rte 309) Quakertown, 215-538-7555 Free Community Meal 3rd Thurs of month, 5:30pm-6:30pm. First UCC, 4th & Park, Quakertown, 215-536-4447 Free Community Meal 1st Thurs. of month (Oct-June) 5:45pm. Yerger Bldg across from Trinity Lutheran, 102 N Hellertown Ave, Quakertown Free Community Meal 3rd Mon of month, 5:30pm-6:30pm. Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. Call 215-249-3689 for possible ride.
Bingo
Bingo - Milford Twp Fire Hall every Thur, 12:15pm (1st Thur. of month $50 Jackpot), 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown, 215-536-3066 Bingo - Richland Twp Fire/Rescue every Tues, open 5:30pm, 64 Shelly Rd, Quakertown. 215-536-7226 Bingo - Great Swamp Fish/Game every Sat, open 4pm, (kitchen open) 2650 Schukraft Rd, Quakertown, 215-536-8820 Bingo - Sellersville Fire Co. every Thurs (except July) open 5pm, 2 N. Main St, 215-257-4028 Bingo - Tylersport Fire Co. every Tues, open 5:30pm, 125 Ridge Rd, 215-257-5900 Bingo - American Legion Post 397, 1st & 3rd Fri of month, open 6pm, 935 Main St, Hellertown, 484-851-3624
August 2018 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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What Really Matters? Sometimes our lives take a turn and we don’t know which way to go or what to do. We think about the situation and try to figure out what really matters. What does all of this mean. Some people are very black and white and can make a decision rather quickly. In that moment it makes sense to them they are clear about what matters. However, there are some of us who focus a great deal on how others will be impacted about a situation or a decision. We think about what matters to us and can say okay this is how I would handle it but then the other person may not think that way. Sometimes we also have a difficult time because we may have some unresolved feelings about a specific situation and it can be uncomfortable to do what really matters to us. And for some of us it may mean not doing anything. You might be thinking how that could be a good thing. Because if what matters to us is feeling safe and comfortable then confronting a situation isn’t going to happen. It can be very tricky to be true to ourselves and do what really matters. Life is not always easy. Some of us want to be on a journey and some of us just want to get by. Taking risks and asking for what we need is not easy. It takes a lot of courage and strength to get out of your comfort zone. To truly face what you fear, what you want, what you desire, what else may be out there can be unsettling, uncomfortable and down right “scary”. This is why I always talk about the importance of being true to yourself and that you know yourself better than anybody knows you. Because when you are in a situation that
requires you to make a decision you can look at it from many different perspectives and in the end make a decision because you do know what is best for you and what really matters. Others opinions of us should not matter but all too often we take them into consideration and may make decisions that are not in our best interest. I do know that if we stay stuck and don’t move through painful events or feelings we will not become everything that we can be. But that is a very personal decision. Only we can answer that for ourselves. Just because you may not want to look at things in your life or make changes doesn’t mean there is anything wrong with you. I am not judging or criticizing you. That is why the topic of what really matters is very personal. We are all different in our personalities, values and morals. So what matters to one of us is not going to matter to someone else. All too often my clients feel they are at a crossroads in their life so when they ask themselves certain questions it helps them to choose the road they want to go on. If you read my articles pretty regularly then you know that I am a big advocate for asking ourselves questions. So, if you are facing a dilemma or a decision in your life think about the things that matter to you from every angle and you will be able to move forward with your life. Regardless of how painful or joyful the decision of what matters will be. It goes back to “You know the truth!” My belief is “that all persons are truly greater than they think they are.” Susan V. Brewer is a Certified Life Coach and Psychotherapist in the Upper Bucks County Area. She can be reached at 215-872-4219. Visit her website at www.balancelife4u.com.
QNB Bank Supports Coopersburg Streetscape Plan QNB Bank is proud to support the Borough of Coopersburg’s comprehensive Streetscape Plan designed to beautify and enhance Coopersburg’s historic character. QNB donated $5,000 toward the community improvement project, with a second $5,000 donation to be made again next year. Coopersburg’s Streetscape Plan includes improving sidewalks
and curbs, installing brick patterned crosswalks and ornamental light poles, calming traffic through delineation of parking spaces and shared lane bicycle markings, and enhancing the connection between the Saucon Rail Trail and Main Street business district. Construction of the new improvements is scheduled to begin in Spring/Summer 2019.
Inherited Curiosity My father often mentioned about the time in his youth that he saved up money for a “Crystal Radio Kit.” After a simple assembly this young boy (the 1920’s) living in Trumbauersville was caught up in the crackling sounds that he was able to receive on this radio set. The main station was KDKA out of Pittsburgh, Pa. He was able to receive a few pioneer stations out of Philadelphia. These few radio stations along with the Short Wave radios owned by the more wealthy with large towers outside their homes that received government and other short wave transmissions from around the world were the only “Radio Waves” being transmitted. Reflecting back to his first crystal radio and the stories he told of knowing someone with a short wave radio in town, I see that I have the natural curiosity that this wonderful person had. Back in the 1950’s and 1960’s families spent a lot more time conversing with one another. My dad would sit with me at his oak picnic table after supper and talk about his curiosity of many common daily functions. His ability to look at “Taken For Granted” item and get a young mind to delve with him on “why” it happens. Did you ever wonder how a corn stalk develops into a sturdy 6’ long plant and then produce a complicated seedpod to reproduce itself. We all see the tiny seed go into the ground, watch it grow, and pull the ear to have corn on the cob. My dad opened up the curiosity as to how that plant is formed from simply a seed, earth, and water. Getting back to that crystal radio… My dad at one time had a long discussion on his curiosity about “Radio Waves” soon after we tried an expensive “FM” radio from Dimmig Electric in the 1950’s. He was amazed that there were two different lengths of radio waves. AM radio waves were much shorter than FM radio waves that required a small aerial for the much richer sound. When a thunderstorm approached you would hear crackling on AM but not on the FM Radio! As he pondered on the radio waves that summer week; the thought of all the radio, television, and other type systems such as radar that were developed during WWII reaching their source became a new subject. He thought about this and once again the function such as watching TV or listening to radio was a subject of analysis. Those waves penetrated the walls
of the house, literally our bodies, and other furnishings to reach the “Rabbit Ears” on top of the TV or the chrome aerial on the Motorola FM radio. Not known to us were the entire military, airplane, and other radio waves created by man or by the functions of the universe that were ALL travelling the same path. Continuing in the same curiosity paths of my dad; I wonder if all the additional waves in this complicated electronic age could have an effect on our health. We see spikes in certain serious ailments involving cell functions and brain functions. Along with genetic engineering of our plants and animals, as I mentioned last month, will science in their curiosity discover we have advance to far, to fast? Pop Helm, I am sure that if you were with us today, you would be thinking the same. I will always remember the discussions we had about the destructive uses of sound and light that were experimented on during WWII? Did the governments continue to develop these possible weapons of war? Since the war the scientist developed microwaves and used it to heat food. They also developed Laser Light that not only can beam over a long distance but also can create intense heat. It too can be used for the good of man. Let us not forget the development of the transistor and the microchip and what we know as artificial intelligence. As I think about all this since you have passed, I wonder what you would think? My Dad’s talent of delving into deep curious thought from a person whose time period 8th grade education was held back, having a wonderful exploring mind, as he worked in a factory all his life. His curiosity not only affected me but I feel he influenced the rest of his progeny. I see his traits in his grandchildren and great grandchildren. These nieces and nephews, and their children are giving back through the fields of Nursing, Electrical Engineering, Aero Space Engineering involving helicopter development and Mars travel studies, Marine Biology, a College Professor, musicians, great athletes and team players, and Political and Social Sciences have all come from his genes. Isn’t that quite an achievement! His picnic table discussions are still alive as they all ask why and their curiosity inherited partly from him will make this world a better place. Thanks POP! Dick Helm is a regular contributor. He can be reached at dickhelm@ubfp.org
(l-r) Gary Hovis, Mayor of Coopersburg; Ken Mohr, Comprehensive Planning/Grants Volunteer;
Tim Paashaus, Borough Manager; Deb McDonald, QNB Bank VP/Branch Manager)
“Summer afternoon—summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.” - Henry James
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • August 2018
QNB Corp. Announces Increased Earnings QNB Corp. (the “Company” or “QNB”) (OTC Bulletin Board: QNBC), the parent company of QNB Bank, reported net income for the second quarter of 2018 of $2,862,000, or $0.82 per share on a diluted basis, compared to net income of $2,386,000, or $0.69 per share on a diluted basis, for the same period in 2017. For the six months ended June 30, 2018, QNB reported net income of $5,797,000, or $1.67 per share on a diluted basis. This compares to net income of $5,246,000, or $1.53 per share on a diluted basis, reported for the same period in 2017. Total assets as of June 30, 2018 were $1,172,874,000 compared with $1,152,337,000 at December 31, 2017. Loans receivable at June 30, 2018 were $779,886,000 compared with $733,283,000 at December
31, 2017, an increase of $46,603,000, or 6.4%. Total deposits at June 30, 2018 were $985,726,000, decreasing $8,222,000, compared with $993,948,000 at December 31, 2017. “QNB is pleased to report record earnings—with net income and earnings per share being the highest reported for the first half of 2018,” said David W. Freeman, President and Chief Executive Officer. “During the second quarter, we relocated our Warminster office to larger space, combining full-service branch banking, along with our lower Bucks loan center. We continue to see strong loan, deposit, and household growth throughout our service footprint. Asset quality and net interest margin continue to improve.”
“I just completed a long car trip on a Sunday in August with two small children, which believe me is enough to convince you that Samuel Beckett was right about everything. ”
- Lev Grossman, novelist
4H Club Seeks Out Native Creatures
Bucks County’s Scales & Tails 4H reptile club enjoyed a July day doing what they do best - checking out reptiles and doing community service. Their meeting started with an ice cream social where everyone brought something for the ice cream sundae making event then went on a hike to find a good place to do a native species study. Members were able to see salamanders, frogs, newts, a snake, and countless fish and insects in their natural environment. submitted photo
August 2018 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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The Great Quakertown Windstorm of 1962 On Monday evening, August 20, 1962, my brother Dan and I were almost killed in the Great Quakertown Windstorm. At least that’s what my greataunt Gertrude Frank told our mom--and everybody else she knew. We were a little scared during the worst of it, sure, but it didn’t occur to us that we might die. Then, boys our age (it was that one month a year we both were the same age--nine at the time), often can’t recognize it when death is looking them in the face. They’re too idealistic, happy and naïve. From the destruction we saw around town afterwards, though, it was clear that people could have been killed. But, none were and we thought it was just a neat, exciting experience. We were at the Quakertown Hospital lawn fête when the Great Windstorm hit. Though it might seem inappropriate in this age of governmental oversight and neb-nosed social activists, Dan and I were on our own that evening. Both our parents were working at Hinkel and Biehn Shoe Store. They gave us money for the lawn fête and, after we had supper at our grandparent’s house, we hiked the mile or so across town up to the hospital. We got there about six with instructions to be downtown at the shoe store by eight o’clock, when it closed. We loved lawn fêtes; at the hospital or at churches. They had carnival games, bingo, music, snacks and ice cream, and pie, cake and white elephant gift tables. At the hospital, booths and tents and folding tables were set up on the grassy lawn along Park Ave. between the hospital and the brick utility building on 10th St. The year before, I won my bug-eyed black goldfish, George, there when my ping pong ball bounced four time before landing in his bowl. And, Dan and I both won free passes to the Karlton Theater by popping balloons with darts. (It said they were good for the whole month, but it turned out they were just good for one show. We used them to see an Elvis movie). The Great Windstorm blew in around sunset. First, trees across Park Ave. whipped violently and a dust cloud whipped up while it was still calm on our side of the street. Then, it hit the lawn fête. There was no rain at first, just wind; severe, hurricane force wind. Trash, hats and bingo cards were swept up and swirled through the air like confetti. People shouted and scurried. It quickly got worse. Folding chairs cartwheeled. Game-booths canvas roofs tore and flapped loose. Women screamed, snatched pies and cakes from the tables and rushed toward the side door of the hospital. Dan and I took cover in bushes next to the maintenance building behind the bean-bag-toss game-booth. As a cardboard box bounced past like a tumbleweed I looked up and was mesmerized. The litter, leaves and debris that whirled above or darted past in the frantic tempest that surrounded me were eerily illuminated by the now flickering lawn fête lights. It was like a surreal swarm of frantic bees or hummingbirds. Suddenly, with a crack and crash that was audible over the roar of the storm and the panicked yelling of people who were desperately trying to salvage things and find cover, a huge branch broke off a tree across the street and fell onto a parked car. Dan had had enough. He burst from our flimsy, ineffective cover and raced for the side door of the hospital where others were headed.
But, before he got half way there a series of wind gusts more intense than any before hit. Then the downpour came, accompanied by frightening flashes of lightning and earsplitting explosions of thunder. Dan dove under a table that was still half full of baked goods. As I rushed to join him, another furious gust hit, nearly knocking me off my feet. The table Dan was under lifted off the ground, exposing him huddled there. I jumped to the side as it crashed onto its top and smeared cakes and pies across the lawn. It was deluging and still blowing hard as we clung tight against the brick wall in the shelter of the hospital with a dozen other people. Everyone was wet and scared. The lawn fête was dark now, as were the houses up and down Park Ave. But, there were lights on at Aunt Gertrude’s house on 11th St., across the rear hospital parking lot. We could see people gathered on her enclosed side porch. The rain and wind had abated some, so we took the chance. We sprinted the 100 yards; between parked cars, across the alley, right through Aunt Gert’s mint tea garden and up onto her porch. We didn’t recognize anyone and went right on past and into the kitchen. There were strangers in there, too. Aunt Gert was in her chair talking on the telephone (like she always was). When she saw us standing there dripping wet, she shouted, “Good Lord, It’s Jackie and Danny! You were out in that? You were almost killed!” She called our dad down at Hinkel and Biehn and he drove up to get us. It took him a while so the storm was over by the time he got there. We had to drive up to Main St. then down Mill to get home because downed trees and power lines blocked the other routes. Traffic lights didn’t work. Trash cans were in the middle of the street. The fence at Memorial Park Stadium was torn to bits and scattered across the ice skating rink field. Flashing red lights sped everywhere. Firehouse sirens blared. Tree branches were down in our yard and the Licking Run Creek was high, but our house was okay. My mom called Aunt Gert to tell her we got home all right, but her line was busy. In the Quakertown Daily Free Press the next day we learned that three huge, 40 x100 foot tents at the Q-mart, which they’d set up for the Greater Bucks County Fair, had been flattened by the Great Windstorm. The fair was supposed to start that day but was postponed. Rev. Leonard E. Good was there when it hit and a concession booth was ripped loose and blown into him, breaking his leg. The newspaper said the storm had tornado force winds and heavy rain, that it was a “violent, quick hitter” that left destruction across Upper Bucks County. But, we already knew that. I’ve been through many severe storms in the 56 years that have passed since the Great Quakertown Windstorm, but few have left me with such clear memories. Many of those other storms were dangerous, a few were more violent, but the Great Quakertown Windstorm is the only one that “officially” almost killed me. (FYI: The Quakertown Hospital was much smaller then. Lawn fêtes were held about where the emergency room is now [2018]. Norman and Gertrude Frank’s house was purchased and demolished by the hospital. It was where the 11th Street parking lot now is.) .Jack Schick is a long time Quakertown area resident and regular contributor here at
UBFP. Reach him at sjckschc@aol.com
Habitat Bucks Announces New Board Members
Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County is pleased to announce three newly elected members to our Board of Directors. New board members include Michael Carr, Stacey Mulholland and Hal Margolit. The new Board of Directors members bring diverse experiences to their roles. Carr is an attorney with Eastburn and Gray and focuses his practice in the areas of real estate, zoning and land use in Bucks County and throughout Pennsylvania. Mulholland is a Public Affairs Specialist with the Delaware River Basin Commission. Margolit is a Tax Manager with Duane Morris LLP. Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors is responsible for establishing policy and guidelines in coordination with the organization’s efforts of building communities and empowering families through the construction, rehabilitation and preservation of homes in Bucks County, PA. “Our Board of Directors generously invests their time and efforts in fulfilling the mission of Habitat Bucks to build strength, stability and self-reliance within our Bucks County community,” said Florence Kawoczka, executive director,Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County. “We are grateful for their dedication to helping us meet the ongoing need for affordable housing.” The 2019 fiscal year Executive Board includes Mike Keim, President; Karl Schmidt,
Vice President; Nancy Buckner, Secretary; and Jim Esposito, Treasurer. About Habitat Bucks: The mission of Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County (Habitat Bucks) is Building Communities, Empowering Families. Habitat Bucks has an open-door policy: All who believe that everyone deserves a decent, affordable place to live are welcome to volunteer to lend a helping hand. The Habitat Bucks Homeownership Program provides an opportunity for low-income families to build strength, stability and self-reliance by partnering with Habitat. Habitat homebuyers contribute a minimum of 200 hours of sweat equity during the construction of their homes. Since 1990, Habitat Bucks has partnered with 112 households in Bucks County for homeownership. Our Home Repair program makes exterior home repairs such as porch repair and installation of wheelchair access ramps, and interior home modifications to help aging and individuals with disabilities remain safe in their own homes. Revenue from Habitat ReStores provides a source of sustainable funding for the construction and repair of homes. For more information about Habitat Bucks, please call 215.822.2812 or visit: www.habitatbucks.org