Upper Bucks Free Press • August 2023

ONGOING:

‘Cameras & Postcards’ collected by James Stauffer. Exhibit of 43 cameras from 19001968 & 900 postcards (scenes from Bucks, Montgomery, Philadelphia, Northampton & Lehigh Counties) at Richland Library, 44 S Main St, Quakertown. Exhibit runs July/August during regular library hours. (Wed 1pm-4pm) (Sat 9am-12noon)

Perkasie Farmers Market 9am-12noon from June to October. Live music every week at 7th & Market St, Perkasie. FMI: 215-257-5065 or perkasieborough.org

FRESH CONNECT Bucks County (free farmers mkt for eligible Bucks County residents) every Wed 11am-1pm at Quakertown Memorial Park, 600 W Mill St. Walk Through Method. FMI: 215-536-0353

FRESH CONNECT Bucks County (free farmers mkt for eligible Bucks County residents) 10am-12noon every 1st & 3rd Thursday at Palisades Middle School, 4710 Durham Rd, Kintnersville. Drive Through Method. FMI: 215-536-0353

July 28

Gift Card Bingo (opens 6pm, bingo 7pm) at Sellersville Fire Department, 2 N Main St. Tickets: $30/advance, $35/door if still available. Outside snacks permitted, no alcohol. FMI: Jackie@lastchanceranch.org

July 28 to August 5

Quakertown Fire Department Carnival starts 6pm at Memorial Park, West Mill St, Quakertown. Free admission. Fun, food, rides, games. Firework Friday Aug 4. FMI: facebook.com/QFDCarnival

July 29

‘By the Moonlight Car Show’ 5pm-9pm at Pennridge High School, 1228 N 5th St, Perkasie. Registration begins 3pm, cost is $25 day of show. FMI: goodtimemotorvators.com

Chicken Barbecue $12 (drive-thru or eatin) 4pm-6pm at Highland Park, 415 Highland Park Drive, Sellersville. At 7pm there will be a piano concert at the Tabernacle. FMI: 215-257-9987

Free Movie Screening, 7pm for “Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat” Takes viewers into the heart of the volunteer fire service and by extension on a journey through the many facets of America. At Sellersville Fire Department, 2 N Main St, Sellersville. Families are encouraged to attend.

July 30

“Merion Concert Band”-Broadway, Classical 7pm at Souderton Community Park, 459 Wile Ave, Souderton. FMI: info@concertsundaes.com

August 2

“Wonderland: Celebrating the 70s & 80s” (golden age of pop, funk & rock and roll) 7pm-9pm at Perkasie’s Amphitheater in Lenape Park.

August 3

Italian Hoagie Sale, $6 each. Must be pre-ordered by today for pickup Saturday, August 5 from 10am-12noon at Passer Community Center, 2580 Richlandtown Pike, Coopersburg. Call or text your order to Shirley at 610-248-3647.

Free Concert 7pm-9pm at Molasses Creek Park, 2100 Krammes Rd, Quakertown. Free parking.

August 4

“Hotel Transylvania 4” Outdoor Movie Nights at Veterans Park, 145 E Pumping Station Rd, Quakertown. Movies start at dusk. Bring own blanket/chairs. Tim 215-536-4733

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

“Encanto” Outdoor Movie Night at Christ’s Lutheran, One Luther Lane, Trumbauersville. Movie begins at dusk. Bring a chair. Free popcorn, Drinks for sale.

August 5

‘Family Fun Day’ 11am-3pm, DJ, crafts, face painting, balloon twisting, outdoor games, hot air balloon and more. By Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. FMI: quakertownmarket@gmail.com

‘Oldies & More’ dancing for couples and singles, 7pm-10pm with DJ Joel at Green Lane Fire Company, 214 Main St, Rte 63, Green Lane. $12 includes snacks. 50/50 event, door prizes & cash bar. Helen at 215-453-9841.

10th Annual Founders Day Open House 12noon-4pm (rain/shine) at Perkasie Park, 200 S 9th St, Perkasie. Victorian grounds & cottages will be open to the public. Selfguided tour with a pre-printed map. FMI: perkasiepark.com

August 6

Jason Kutt Legacy 3rd Annual Car Meet 10am-4pm at Home Depot, 782 Rte 113, Souderton. All vehicles welcome. Trophies, raffles, food, vendors, music. (r/d Aug 13) Free, donations benefit NOVA. Preregistration at jasonkuttlegacyfund.org

“Motor City Revue”-Motown Tribute Band 7pm at Souderton Community Park, 459 Wile Ave, Souderton. info@concertsundaes.com

August 7

Bucks Golf Classic 2023 at North Hills Country Club, 99 Station Ave, Glenside PA. (Supports BCCC students) FMI: 215-968-8417 or email: foundation@bucks.edu

August 9

“Rootsetters” (Reggae/Dub band making waves on the east coast scene) 7pm-9pm at Perkasie’s Amphitheater in Lenape Park.

August 11

“Lightyear” Outdoor Movie Nights at Veterans Park, 145 E Pumping Station Rd, Quakertown. Movies start at dusk. Bring your own blanket/chairs. FMI: Tim 215-536-4733

“Clay Walker” Sounds of Summer Concerts 6pm at Univest Performance Center (outdoor seating) 301 W Mill St, Quakertown. Parking lots open 5pm. Gates open 6pm. Show begins 8pm. Visit Quakertownevents.com for full details and list of other shows coming up.

Doylestown Road Angels Cruise Nights, 5pm-8pm at Dublin Fire Company, 194 N Main St, Dublin. Free, all cars welcome. Food provided by Fire Company and there will be a 50’s DJ. Also 50/50 tickets sold. FMI: 267-893-9796

August 11 to 13

“Nana Does Vegas”- Live Theater (Fri/ Sat 8pm) (Sun 2pm) at DCP Theater, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. FMI/tickets: dcptheatre.org/nana-does-vegas Adult Comedy

August 12

21st Annual Cystic Fibrosis Benefit Car Show 4pm-Dusk. Spectators are free. Vehicle registration $20 from 3pm-5pm. Music, Trophies, Door Prizes, Raffles, Food. All vehicles welcome at Quakertown Airport, 2425 Milford Square Pike.

Peach Festival 4pm-8pm at Trinity Lutheran, 102 N Hellertown Ave, Quakertown. (rain/ shine) The Quakertown Band will play. Open to the public. Peaches, food, games for kids & more. Trinityquakertown.org

‘Ladies Night Out Bingo’ (open 5pm, games 6pm) at West End Fire Co, 1319 Park

Ave, Quakertown. $40/advance, $45/at door. BYOB, food/drinks for sale. Must be 21 years old. Raffles, 50/50, prizes. FMI: 215-5366130.

Flea Market 8am-1pm to benefit Grace UMC, 295 S Main St, Telford. Call 215-7232144 to reserve a space for $20 cash only.

August 13

Quakertown Dairy Queen (Rte 309) Car Cruise with Good Time Motorvators 4pm8pm. All $1 donations (per vehicle) go to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. FMI: goodtimemotorvators.com

Quakertown Free Concert in the Park. Quakertown Band performs 6:30pm-8:30pm at Univest Performance Center in Quakertown.

Food Trucks: The Brick and Rita’s Italian Ice

August 17 to 20

“Nana Does Vegas”- Live Theater (Thu/Fri/Sat 8pm) (Sun 2pm) at DCP Theater, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Tickets: dcptheatre.org/nana-does-vegas Adult Comedy

August 18

‘Let’s Bowl’ for Last Chance Ranch Animals, 8pm-10pm at Earl’s Bowl in Quakertown. DJ playing favorite music, Trophies, 50/50, Basket Raffles & more. Tickets must be purchased in advance. FMI: lastchanceranch.org

“Coco” Outdoor Movie Night at Christ’s Lutheran, One Luther Lane, Trumbauersville. Movie begins at dusk. Bring a chair. Free popcorn, Drinks for sale.

August 19

‘5K Beer Run’ for ‘Pints for Pups’ 10am1pm. Registration begins 10am online. Run begins 11:30am. Entrance fee $35 (w/Tshirt $45) Begins at Two Rivers Taproom in Quakertown. FMI: lastchanceranch.org/ event/5K-pints-for-pups-beer-run

‘Pints for Pups’ 12noon-4pm at Two Rivers Taproom, 116 E Broad St, Quakertown. Meet adoptable dogs, LCR merchandise, Raffle Baskets, Mega 50/50 tickets for sale. FMI: lastchanceranch.org

Indoor Craft Show 9am-4pm in Room #201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Local crafters with handmade items. Vendors change every weekend. Call or text George at 267-884-5956 to register.

Upper Bucks Brewfest 1pm-5pm at The Park at 4th, 301 Mill St, Quakertown. Craft Brews, Live Music, Food, Cornhole Tourney, Vendors, Raffles. Ticket information: Quakertown Alive 215-536-2273

24th “Under the Stars” Car Show 4pm-8pm in downtown Perkasie. Also new this year is “Cars From Afar” (unique automobiles from around the world) will be staged on beautiful W Walnut St, Perkasie

‘Oldies & More’ dancing for couples and singles, 7pm-10pm with DJ Gary Wiley at Green Lane Fire Company, 214 Main St, Rte 63, Green Lane. $12 includes snacks. 50/50 event, door prizes & cash bar. Call Helen 215-453-9841.

August 20

“Kat N’ Kos” free concert 12noon-2pm at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. FMI: quakertownmarket@gmail.com

Visit One-Room School on Bucks County Highway of History…2pm meeting of Richland (One-Room School) Historical Society, 130 Richlandtown Pike, Quakertown. FMI: 215-536-4353.

Octagonal Schoolhouse (only one left in Bucks County 1802-1850) Open House 1pm5pm at Corner Swamp Rd & Second St Pike (Rte 232), Wrightstown Township. FREE admission. FMI: 215-598-7534 or 215-8702013.

August 23

“Mama’s Black Sheep” (singer songwriter trio brings country, pop, soul & blues) 7pm9pm at Perkasie’s Amphitheater in Lenape Park.

August 25

“The Hooters” Sounds of Summer Concerts 6pm at Univest Performance Center (outdoor seating) 301 W Mill St, Quakertown. Parking lots open 5pm. Gates open 6pm. Show begins 8pm. Visit Quakertownevents.com for details and tickets.

“Bucks County Folks Society” 7pm-9pm at Perkasie’s Amphitheater in Lenape Park.

August 26

Flea Market 8am-1pm at Grace UMC, 295 S Main St, Telford. Call 215-723-2144 to reserve a $20 space.

“SRG” free concert 12noon-2pm at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. FMI: quakertownmarket@gmail.com

Haycock One-Room School Reunion for anyone who attended a one-room school in Haycock. Potluck lunch 12noon, drinks & paper goods supplied. Meeting 1:30pm at St. Paul’s Church in Applebachsville. FMI: 215-206-8563 or 215-536-4747

“LOCASH” Sounds of Summer Concerts 6pm at Univest Performance Center (outdoor seating) 301 W Mill St, Quakertown. Parking lots open 5pm. Gates open 6pm. Show begins 8pm. Visit Quakertownevents.com for details and tickets.

WWWA Wrestling 6pm-9pm at at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Tickets available at Raceplace Dept #210. 215-538-2394 or WWWA at 215-362-7184

August 27

“Avilion” free concert 11am-1pm at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. FMI: quakertownmarket@gmail.com

“Lucky 7” (classic, dance & funk music) Music in the Park free outdoor concert 6pm at Dimmick Park, 570 Durham St, Hellertown. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on. Food & drink vendors available.

September 1

Trumbauersville Hoagie Sale (order by Sept 1, pickup Sept 11) Fire Company, 142 N Main St. Marilyn 215-536-2518, Jen 215-989-0909.

Dance Party with “Tammy G” (Wednesday, Sept 13) at Upper Bucks Activity Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown. Lunch at 11:30am, Dance till 2:30pm. $16 per person. Buy tickets before September 7. FMI: 215-536-3066

September 8

Doylestown Road Angels Cruise Nights, 5pm-8pm at Dublin Fire Company, 194 N Main St, Dublin. Free, all cars welcome. Food provided by Fire Company. Also 50/50 tickets sold. FMI: 267-893-9796 (tentative: double check if current)

September 9

Park-Side Food Festival 12noon-6pm at the Park at 4th St, Quakertown. Live music, vendors, beer garden, yard games and more!

QUMC Annual Chicken BBQ and Bake Sale, 4pm-6:30pm at Quakertown United Methodist, 1875 Freier Rd, Quakertown. Adults/$15, Children to age ten/$7. Take out only. Seating available in Miller Hall for eating boxed meals. 215-536-4992

Pride of Quakertown Presents Founding Sponsor Award to QNB Bank, Over $20,000 in Giving

Pride of Quakertown (POQ) is proud to recognize QNB Bank as our Founding Sponsor. Launched in 2010, POQ’s mission is to help children at risk achieve their dreams through participation in extracurricular activities. Each year, POQ helps over 150 children in the Quakertown Community School District.

“From the very beginning, QNB Bank has been instrumental in our success.” said Jen Reich, co-founder of POQ. “Throughout this time, QNB’s contributions have played a very significant role in our endeavors, amounting to over $20,000. We could not have helped so many of our kids without their enduring support. We can’t thank the QNB team enough.”

“Participating in group sports or other team activities, youngsters learn about teamwork and how to get along with others, valuable skills on the road to success in adulthood.” said Dave Freeman, CEO of QNB Bank. “We are honored to support this great local charity.”

Working through the counselors at the Quakertown Community School District, POQ helps children participate in a broad array of activities including music, art, sports and many other programs. Based upon the counselors’ recommendations, each child receives an individual scholarship that supports his or her desire to achieve and grow.

Make Summer Maintenance Simple!

There’s no time like Summertime! With the arrival of the new season, you may want to consider performing some tasks around the house. As with all seasonal upkeep, summer maintenance is important to preserve the function, safety and value of your home. Use the checklist below to help keep your home in shape for summer!

EXTERIOR

• Repair and repaint any chipped, cracked or faded paint.

• Replace loose or rotted siding or decking.

• Clean your gutters and ensure your downspouts are draining properly.

• Check your roof for damaged shingles or other elements.

• Wash your windows inside and out, and fix any failed seals or damaged screens.

Home Equity Borrowing

• Inspect foundations for cracks or leaks.

• Fill cracks in your driveway and walkway.

• Clean grill for optimal summer barbecuing.

• Get your air conditioner checked and serviced by a professional.

INTERIOR

• Install window air conditioner units if needed, and clean the filters before use.

• Dust off your ceiling fan blades, and ensure fans are set in summer (downdraft) mode.

• Clean out your dryer vent and exhaust duct to prevent fires.

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

• Check for water damage on basement walls.

• Look for signs of pests (such as droppings, holes or dead bugs) and take action.

Home maintenance isn’t always easy, but it can often save you time, money and stress later on.

• Power-wash any surfaces that need a good cleaning.

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Two Types of Jade: Part 1 - Jadeite

Jade has been a longtime symbol of status in China since the ancient times. Jade is an important material and it is often used in carvings, jewelry, screens, decorations, etc. Jade is held in high regard as valuable and culturally and artistically significant too.

Jade symbolizes success and good luck and it comes in two forms. In part 1 of this column, I will discuss jadeite and in part 2 of this column I will tell you about nephrite. Both beautiful and related. Jade comes in two distinct forms: jadeite and nephrite. These two forms –jadeite and nephrite-- are similar in that they are both stones that are formed by a grouping of interlocking microcrystals. Each piece of jade is one of a kind and has a definite character.

Both jadeite and nephrite are hard stones and both are called jade, however there are differences in the chemical composition. Jadeite is a silicate compound of sodium and aluminum. Nephrite is a silicate compound of calcium and magnesium.

Most jade traded today is jadeite jade. It is harder and denser than nephrite jade. It is more expensive than nephrite jade too. Jadeite comes in many colors of green. Jadeite does not have layers that are visible.

is not as smooth as jade but sometimes is mistaken for jade. Chrysoprase imitates jade’s two forms also. Jade can be mistaken for green quartz or prehnite and vice versa. These various jade look alike stones are good-looking stones but are not as beautiful or valuable as jade.

Fake jades can be susceptible to chemical bleaching, color dying, and doubling, also known as layering. Some fake jade items are treated to look more translucent. Some fake jade items are treated to accept a plastic coating to enhance the object’s look. Natural, authentic, real and untreated jade is usually only treated with a plum juice wash or beeswax polish as it then will retain its true and natural color.

Jade mirror, late 1800s

Jade is the stone that is used in special jewelry pieces such as the Bi symbol disc pendants that represent the Chinese symbol for eternity. The Bi symbol has a great spiritual significance. The Bi symbol is often presented carved in jade. Butterflies symbolize long life and they often carved into pendants, pins, earrings, etc. made of jade. Other symbols that are important to Chinese culture which are often represented using jade include: the bat, a symbol of happiness, the dragon which shows power and prosperity, the peach which references immortality, and the circular disc with a central hole which references happiness and heaven.

Jade has many imitators. Many stones look like jade but are not real jade. For instance, Aventurine, a type of quartz, is a green stone that is also known as Indian jade or Australian jade. Greenstone is a green stone and it is a jade look alike too. Serpentine is the name for many types of stones and they all resemble jade. Serpentine is waxy, green stone which

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Easy Puppy Pupsicle Recipes

Hot-diggity-dog, we’re all feeling the blistering heat of the dog days of summer!

Dogs can't tell us when they need a break from the heat.

Here's a couple ways your pup might tell you they need a break from the heat and some time to cool down.

• excessive panting

• any whimper or whining

• going slower than normal, whether it be hiking or jogging

• lying down more often than usual

If you notice any of these signs, give your dog a break from the heat and give him a frozen treat!

You can make him special dog popsiclesor should I say pupsicles. Freezing fruits and veggies is one of the easiest, cheapest, and healthiest frozen treat options for your dog. Some of my dog’s favorite frozen fruits are; apples, watermelon, strawberries, blueberries and bananas. This would be a great project for the kids. There’s always that one dog who is allergic or can’t tolerate any other food but only their own kibble. It takes all the fun out of the pupsicle, but fear not, I’ve included one just for them too!

Carrot and Apple Pupsicle

Ingredients

2 apples (seeds, core, and stem removed)

2 full carrots or about 2 cups of baby carrots

1 cup of water

Several silicone or regular ice cube trays.

Directions

Chop two apples (remove seeds, core, and stem. Leave the skin on)

Put all ingredients in a blender or food processer, add one cup of water then puree.

Pour the mixture into ice cube trays (please don't actually use a Popsicle stick they could be dangerous for dogs) then freeze.

Watermelon and Coconut Pupsicle

Ingredients

1 cup of unsweetened coconut water or milk

2 cups of pureed seedless watermelon (or pick out the seeds). You can add the juice too.

1 tbsp. of honey (optional)

Several silicone or regular ice cube trays

Directions

Remove all the seeds from the watermelon, cube, and then put in a blender or food processor.

Add unsweetened coconut water or milk, add 1 tbsp. honey then blend. Pour in ice cube or silicone trays then freeze.

The Delicate Puppysicle Ingredients

1 cup of dry kibble

1/2 cup low sodium broth (chicken, beef or vegetable) or plain water

Directions

Pour broth over dry kibble, then let it soak for a couple of hours in the fridge. Fill ice cube trays then freeze.

Stay cool!

submitteD by marion C. o’neil CPDt-ka

CtDi, owner anD instruCtor for molasses Creek Dog training, llC, quakertown anD trainer for runaway farm Pet hosPital, Pennsburg she Can be reaCheD at molassesCreek@Verizon net

Care & Share Cuts Ribbon on New Welcome Center

The Care & Share Thrift Shoppes recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially launch their Welcome Center. Located in the middle of the Souderton Shopping Center, the new location is easily accessed by potential volunteers. Since 1975, Care & Share has been a volunteer driven organization.

In addition, it was also noted that the Variety Shoppe recently expanded by over 2,000 sq. feet. It now has a larger selection of toys, housewares, holiday items, linens, and an expanded Auction Department. The

auctions can be viewed by downloading the Care & Share Auction app.

In attendance at the open house was The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Montgomery County, Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce, and The Mayor of Souderton, Dan Yocum.

Care & Share welcomes individuals and groups to join their volunteer team. Contact Maggie Herrity, mherrity@ careandshareshoppes.org or 215-723-0315

Jay Crispin arnholt, 53, of Quakertown, PA passed away suddenly on July 6, 2023. He was born in Philadelphia, PA on December 5, 1969, to the late Kenneth L. and Susan J. (Otto) Arnholt. Jay graduated from Quakertown High School in 1988.

He went on to establish Chaos Customs, a business born of his love for custom car and motorcycle restoration. As an outlet for his unique and artistic abilities Jay also established Dinner on the Mill, a home-based restaurant that showcased his hobby for creating cuisine.

Jay’s latest endeavor was as owner of Chaos Training Solutions.

Jay is survived by his siblings Christopher A. Arnholt, Jeffrey K. Arnholt (Kelly), and Abigail L. Arnholt-Ireland (Kiernan); nieces Aislinn and Taegan Ireland; and many other loving family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

BarBara a. Bahner, 69, of Perkasie, passed away peacefully at her home on July 6, 2023. She was born in Philadelphia on March 9, 1954, to the late Donald Logan and Elizabeth (Young) Munro. She was the loving wife of Robert L. Bahner for 48 years. Barbara enjoyed needlepoint and taking care of her house plants. She was an agency nurse doing geriatric care for over 30 years. She loved spending time with her family.

Barbara was survived by her husband; daughters Nicole (Kyle) Huskey and Kristel Bahner; siblings William Logan, Donna (Mark) Berger, and Diane Staffieri; and many other loving family and friends.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

Joann h. Bresel 83, of Quakertown died July 10, 2023 in St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus.

She was the wife of the late Ronald Bresel. Born in Quakertown, PA she was the daughter of the late Webster & Tess (Hrycko) Nase. She was last employed as an administrator for United Integrity Group. Prior to that she was a school bus driver for Levy School Bus Company, and also worked for Garges Oil. In her earlier years she worked for the former Lila & Russ Thompson Real Estate.

Joann was a very active Trumbauersville Community member where she served on Borough Council, worked the election polls, and was active with Community Day and Trumbauersville Lions Club.

She also enjoyed collecting antiques, bird watching, embroidery, crocheting, gardening, and spending time with family doing puzzles. She was most fond of her daily trips with her family and friends to Spor’s General Store. She was a very active member of Christ Church of the UCC in Trumbauersville where she was involved with most committees and church groups, a Consistory member, the Administrator in the Church Office and Vacation Bible School.

She is survived by a daughter Adrienne “Cookie” Bedford, three grandchildren Alicia Bedford-Kulp (Raymond), Jessica Bedford, and Sara Bedford, three great grandchildren Zabian Bedford, Alivia Ogden, and Kayden Ogden; a nephew Gregory Wynkoop.

She was predeceased by a sister Andrea (Tantie) Wynkoop and a nephew Brian Wynkoop. Arrangements are in the care of C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com)

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Christ Church of the UCC P.O. Box 516 Trumbauersville, PA 18970.

June Wilmot Burrington of Quakertown, Pennsylvania was united in death with her dear sweet husband John Burrington who passed away in 2009. June was 89 years old at the time of her passing on June 30, 2023.

June worked for Burrington Associates with her children and husband for 30 years. She was the daughter of the late Leamon Wilmot and Ida (Smith) Wilmot Hobbs. June was the sister of the late Ronald Wilmot and the late Verne Hobbs. She is survived by her children, Jeffrey Burrington and his wife Debbie Burrington, and Jay Burrington and his wife Ruth Burrington. June is also survived by many of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. June's services and burial will be held privately. She will be laid to rest at

Quakertown Union Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

paul Chontofalsky, 77, of Coopersburg, passed away on July 16th, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family. Born in Allentown, Paul was the son of the late Joseph and Myrtle Chontofalsky.

He was an active member of the United State Naval Reserve and a life member of Lower Milford Fire Company, Quakertown American Legion, and Delaware River Shad Fishermen’s Association. Paul’s greatest pleasure was spending time with his family and friends.

Paul is survived by his devoted wife, Melcina; his two daughters, Vicki Cobane and her husband Rob and Dana Pierce and her husband Chad; his cherished grandchildren, Emma, Samuel, Conner, and Liam; his siblings, Joanne Dunphy and John Chontofalsky; along with many nieces and nephews. Paul was predeceased by his brother, Luther Chontofalsky. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Paul’s name to Chestnut Hill Church UCC. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

alan g eCk, 66, of Dublin, Pennsylvania died July 12, 2023 in St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus.

He was the husband of Nancy D. (Griffaton) Eck. They were married 26 years last January. Born in Sellersville, PA he was the son of the late Paul J. & Betty Marie (Mohr) Eck. He enjoyed traveling. He was a Veteran of the U.S. Army serving during the Gulf War. He was also a veteran of the U.S. Marines Reserve.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children William Eck (Katrina), Misty Eck, Carrie Tarlton (Larry), Shawn Tobin (Kathleen), Michael Tobin (Caroline), and Keith Tobin (Tara); two brothers Dennis Eck (Terry), Ronald Skidmore (Vicki); two sisters Sharon

Mohr (Phil), Terri Frick (Edward); eleven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Arrangements are in the care of C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 30386 Philadelphia, PA 19103.

lloyd eWer, 89, of Richlandtown passed away on July 21, 2023. He was born in Lahaska, PA on May 28, 1934 to the late Theodore Leroy and Margaret Beatrice (Steever) Ewer. Lloyd was the husband of Dorothy Elaine (Shive) Ewer for 63 years. He was a proud Army veteran. Lloyd served as mayor of Richlandtown for 30 years and served on the borough council and planning commission. Lloyd was known as the "marrying mayor", and united over 600 couples. Lloyd loved visiting his mountain house in Bradford County, PA.

Lloyd is survived by his wife; daughters Deborah (Mark) Mascaro, Kathy Landes, and Judith (Lawrence) Roberts; grandchildren John and Sophia Mascaro, Kimberly and Serena Landes, and Samantha, Margaret, Jordan, and Katherine Roberts; great-grandchildren Madison Landes, and Audrianna and Avery Davis; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by 4 siblings. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

John mattheW kihm It is with great sadness that the family of John Matthew Kihm announces his sudden passing on June 27, 2023, after a brief illness.

John was a resident of Phoebe Ministries in Richlandtown, PA, where he was under the care of wonderful nurses and staff.

Born August 2, 1935, John was the son of the late Charles and Margaret Kihm. John grew up on W. Sulis Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and attended Olney High School. Upon graduation, he volunteered for service in the Korean conflict where he served honorably on the USS Iowa BB61 Seventh Fleet Flagship,

US Department of the Navy; in service with 85 USMC [MarDet] Marine detachment onboard throughout the war. John’s service and patriotism to his country extended beyond Korea with his support for the war in Vietnam. He unapologetically and symbolically displayed his patriotism with his favorite armed forces and US Flag stickers on his vehicles over many decades.

Upon his departure from the military, John worked as a trained Union Lithographer in the film stripping department for many companies such as Clarks Printing, Penn Lithography, and eventually retiring from US Bank Note. John raised his family in the Lansdale area where he lived most of his life. He enjoyed the outdoors, which included hiking, fishing, target range shooting, and time with his children and grandchildren. He was the gentlest, kind, and understanding person you’d ever meet. His patience and his willingness to please others was one of his most notable traits. He spent hours upon hours of time with his children and grandchildren. From his involvement with the Boy Scouts of America serving as an assistant Scout Master, to a wide range of outdoor leisure activities.

John also loved music, having an eclectic taste ranging from Johnny Cash to Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass.

In addition to his parents, John was also preceded in death by his younger brother Nicholas Kihm (Victoria) and grandson PFC John F. Kihm.

John is survived by his four sons, John M. Kihm, Jr. (Cecelia), Edward C. Kihm (Rosemary), Brian K. Kihm (Satina), and Scott C. Kihm (Janet), as well as 9 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, sister-in-law, Victoria Kihm, and many nieces and nephews.

John will be laid to rest at Washington Crossing National Cemetery in Newtown, PA. Interment will be private and held on August 2, 2023, which would have been John’s 88th birthday. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 5th. Family and friends will be notified of the time and location. Arrangements are in the care of C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com)

danielle niCole koehler-Carlson, nee Simmermon, survived by husband Cody Carlson; and sons Aiden, Isaac, and Dylan Koehler.

Also survived by mother, Barbara Showalter of Hellertown, PA; father, Michael and stepmother Barbara Simmermon of Gibbstown, NJ; paternal grandmother, Geraldine Simmermon of Blue Anchor, NJ; brother, Wayne Simmermon of Hellertown, PA; and sister, Jocelyn Whitted Montgomery of Warner Robins, GA. Also survived by other family members and friends.

Arrangements are in the care of C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com)

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to The Danielle Koehler Family Go Fund Me account.

Judith ann morgan, 78, of Quakertown passed away on July 19, 2023. She was born in Quakertown on March 5, 1945 to the late Raymond and Edith (Apple) Hillegass. She was the loving wife of the late Woodrow Morgan Jr. since June, 1963. Judith loved her family and grandchildren and took great pride in spending time with them and watching them play. She would go out to eat with her niece Barbara regularly. She was a custodian at Quakertown High School for over 20 years. Judith is survived by her children Christine Johnson and Woodrow Morgan III; grandchildren Gary, Brooke, Woodrow IV, and William; great grandchildren Matt, Mikayla, Becca, and Josh; siblings Norman (Nancy) Hillegass and Margie Allison; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; husband; and Marion, Raymond, Dorothy, Harold, Harry, Jimmy, and Esther.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

Joseph passante age 93 passed away peacefully at The Haven at Brandermill Woods surrounded by family on July 22, 2023. He was a dearly loved husband, father, "Pop Pop", brother, uncle, and friend.

Joe was born on April 20, 1930, in Philadelphia, PA to the late John and Rose Passante. He was preceded in death by his

daughter Angela, brother John Passante and sister Rita Cubicciotti. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Angela M. Passante, brother James, sister Teresa and children Joseph (Susan), Raymond, Denise Beres (Stan), Christopher, Karen Franks (Michael), and grandchildren Alexandria, Raymond, Angela, Benjamin and William.

Joe served in the US Army as a Private in Germany from 1950 to 1954. He was a medic, radio operator, and cook.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial donations be sent to the American Kidney Fund.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

lorraine sandra (rapp) phillips, 83, of Quakertown, passed away peacefully at her home on July 9, 2023. She was born in Lansdale, PA on September 26, 1939 to the late Frederick and Katherine (Kaupp) Rapp. Lorraine was the loving wife of Donald Phillips for 68 years.

She was an avid gardener, and a member of the Buxmont Garden Club. Lorraine and Donald owned and operated the Country Caboodle together for almost 15 years.

Lorraine is survived by her husband, Donald; children Gary (Marci) Phillips, Lisa (Tim) Tunis, and Stephen (Kim) Phillips; grandchildren Tiffany Shade, Ashley Finney, Hillary Wilhelm, and Kady Modisette; great grandchildren Harper, Grayson, Londyn, Campbell, Ava, Logan, and Ivy; brother William Rapp; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents and siblings. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Calvary Chapel, Quakertown. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

John a reinhardt, 63, of Quakertown passed away on July 5, 2023 in St. Luke’s University Hospital, Bethlehem after a hardfought battle with cancer.

Preceded in death by his wonderful mother, Elizabeth M. Reinhardt (Polk) and his awesome father Charles F. Reinhardt, Sr. He is survived by his loving sister Diane and his brothers, Charles, Jr., and Bernard, along with many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are in the care of C. R. Strunk

Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com)

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 30386 Philadelphia, PA 19103.

Carolyn m. rush, 85, of Quakertown died July 1, 2023 in Phoebe Richland Health Care Center.

She was the wife of the late Kermit A. Rush.

Born in Bethlehem, she was the daughter of the late Carl & Ellen Irene (Knechel) Warnke. She enjoyed camping and swimming at the YMCA. She also enjoyed doing crafts, reading, puzzles, games, and musicals.

Carolyn was a member of West Swamp Mennonite Church and a member of the church knotting club.

She is survived by a son Paul of Richlandtown, three daughters Donna Rush of Richlandtown, Susan Burrows (Forrest) of Catasauqua, Karen Parke of Richlandtown; a daughter in law Lisa Rush of Quakertown; six grandchildren Sandy Cohen, Paul Parke, Corrine Fellman, David Rush (Casey), Stacey Hay, and Brandon Rush (Jenni); two great grandchildren Skyler Huntley and Adam Fellman.

She was predeceased by two sons David and Robert; four brothers Carl, Franklin, William, and Louie, and a sister Jean.

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 West Swamp Mennonite Church 2501 Allentown Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951.

herman J. slozer, Jr , age 95, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on July 18, 2023, at Grand View Hospital, Sellersville, PA. The husband of the late Shirley A. (Swartley) Slozer, they were married for 59 years. Born in Bedminster Township, he was the son of the late Herman J. and Helen (Silberberger) Slozer, Sr.

He started, owned, and operated the Hilltop Flower and Gift Shop in Perkasie for 50 years before retiring in 2001. He was active in the Perkasie Borough and many local Churches.

Herman is survived by his children: Susan Rice and husband Timothy, Gail Bauer and husband Christopher, Scott Slozer, Joseph Slozer and wife Katie, and Grandchildren: Aaron and Arik Bauer, Evan Rice, Hailey and

Ezekiel Snyder. He is predeceased by his wife Shirley Ann (Swartley) Slozer in July 2020 and his son, Herman (Jay) Slozer in May 1988. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

Bonnie l unruh, 87, of Telford, passed away on Friday, July 21, 2023, at Life Quest in Quakertown.

Born on June 12, 1936, in Sellersville, she was a daughter of the late John and Mary (Butcher) Kramer.

Bonnie was the proud co-owner/operator, with her husband, Paul, of Nanny’s Family Store in Tylersport. Prior to that, she served as a waitress at Reliance Hotel, worked for Royal Pants Factory of Perkasie, and had stitched baseballs and softballs, from home, for Dudley.

Outside of work she held memberships with Zion Hill Lutheran Church and the Eastern Star.

She found joy in sewing, jigsaw puzzles, reading, crocheting, knitting, and cooking. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by one sister: Helen Blank.

She was followed in death by her husband, Paul Unruh, on July 23, 2023.

Bonnie will be lovingly remembered by her two daughters: Tina M. Swartley (Richard) and Cindy L. Whitehouse (Paul); one sister: Maryann Greiser; six grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and fourteen great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held at the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., 821 West Broad Street, Quakertown, PA, on Saturday, August 5, 2023, from 10:00am until the time of the memorial service, in the funeral home, at 11:00am.

Interment will be in Washington Crossing National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Bonnie’s name, to LifeQuest Nursing Center, 2450 John Fries Highway, Quakertown, or The Sanctuary of Haafsville, PO Box 921, Fogelsville, PA 18051.

paul J. unruh, 83, of Telford, passed away on Sunday, July 23, 2023, at Life Quest in Quakertown.

Born on February 15, 1940, in Davenport, Iowa, he was a son of the late J. Paul E. and Eileen (Bennett) Unruh.

Following high school graduation, Paul joined the United States Marine Corps.

After returning to civilian life, Paul held employment with PennCast in Telford before becoming co-owner/operator, with his wife Bonnie, of Nanny’s Family Store in Tylersport. He later worked for Landis Supermarket, Telford.

Outside of work Paul loved to travel throughout the United States, as well as playing golf. He was a member of Zion Hill Lutheran Church, Springfield.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife: Bonnie L. Unruh, who passed away on July 21, 2023; and one brother: Bill Unruh.

Paul will be lovingly remembered by two step-daughters: Tina M. Swartley (Richard) and Cindy L. Whitehouse (Paul); one brother: Michael Unruh (Jan); two sisters: Judy Neely and Andrea Linde; six grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and fourteen great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held at the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., 821 West Broad Street, Quakertown, PA, on Saturday, August 5, 2023, from 10:00am until the time of the memorial service, in the funeral home, at 11:00am.

Interment will be in Washington Crossing National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Paul’s name, to LifeQuest Nursing Center, 2450 John Fries Highway, Quakertown; Wreaths Across America www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/finance; or The Sanctuary of Haafsville, PO Box 921, Fogelsville, PA 18051.

BarBara m yankoWski, 82, of Coopersburg died July 14, 2023 in her home. She was the wife of the late Bolek “Buddy” Yankowski.

She was born in New York. She enjoyed gardening and being outdoors.

Barbara is survived by two sons Brian and his partner Paulette, and Christopher; two grandchildren; Christopher, Jr., & Miranda. Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. Quakertown.

Using your Will to Provide for your Minor Children

BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ.

Most of us think of a will as simply “a legal document that spells out who gets my property when I die”. And while that is true, a will can also be a tool that determines what happens to your minor children and their finances if both parents die before the children come of age. This is not a topic that is comfortable to think about, but for parents, it is necessary.

1. Naming a Guardian

A guardian is the person who will serve in the parental role in the event that you die before your children reach the age of majority. This individual will provide for your children in their daily needs (making sure they have clothes, food, shelter, get to school on time, etc.) This is not something you want to leave to the courts. The courts will do their due diligence and attempt to make a decision based on the best interests of the child, but it is impossible for a judge to understand the “in’s and out’s” of your friendships and family relationships, which would likely be the basis for whom you name as a guardian. In order to avoid this risk, use your will to put this decision in writing.

2. Naming someone to handle your child’s inheritance

Children under the age of 18 cannot manage their inheritance money. There must be someone appointed or named in the will to

do this on their behalf until they come of age. There are a number of ways to do this, the two most common are:

• You can use your will to set up a testamentary trust, which will then allow you to set the terms on how and when they will receive the money (ex.” My daughter shall receive $20,000.00 when she turns 25, and the remainder when she turns 30”). In this testamentary trust you will name a trustee or trustees to handle and manage the money until the time at which the document directs the funds to be distributed.

• You can name a Custodian under the PA Uniform Transfers to Minors Act. Under this approach, the Custodian cannot turn over the funds until the child turns 21, and in some circumstances, may be allowed to maintain control over the funds until the child turns 25.

If you have minor children and you do not have a will, or you do not have a will that addresses who will provide for your minor children in the event of your death, make an appointment to contact an experienced estate planning attorney in your area.

Bracalente Manufacturing Group Acquires Millenium Manufacturing

Bracalente Manufacturing Group announced today the purchase of Millennium Manufacturing Inc. at their US Headquarters in Trumbauersville, PA. The acquisition of Millennium helps bolster the groups already robust specialized CNC milling, turning, multi-spindle manufacturing capabilities and complements their highly skilled workforce as it expands footprint in aerospace, EV, electro mechanical automation and tactical markets.

Bracalente Manufacturing Group is a privately-owned third-generation manufacturing company that has grown significantly over the past few years, increasing capacity and sales by more than 50%. The Millennium deal is an extension of that growth, ensuring the increased customer demand is backed by the rigorous quality standards in their specialty component manufacturing.

“The acquisition of Millennium Manufacturing is part of our growth plan. We are excited to bring the unique capabilities of the Millennium team to our group.” stated Ron Bracalente, CEO and President of Bracalente Manufacturing Group. “We’ve increased our capacity to meet the demand of our customers. This deal strengthens our US presence with

QCSD Welcomes Friedman as New Superintendent

additional talent that specializes in our unique manufacturing offerings. It’s a win for us.”

The deal is part of Bracalente’s expansion initiative, with the addition of several multi-million-dollar automated machining cells, an expanded sales team and a culture of continuous learning and cross-training for the more than 130 employees stateside.

Started in 1950 by Silvene Bracalente as a simple screw machine shop in the family’s garage, today Bracalente is a global manufacturer producing specialty components for some of the largest global brands. Bracalente serves its customers utilizing resources across the globe. These resources coupled with our headquarters and newly acquired factory outside of Philadelphia, PA places our company in a great position to grow with our existing customers and develop new relationships.

Dave Fricke, owner of Millennium Manufacturing, said “The Bracalente name is synonymous with quality in our industry. Ron has continually invested in his people, equipment, and the trade. Deciding to be part of that legacy for our team, allows them the opportunity to thrive.”

Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.

9 Facts About Social Security

Social Security's been a fact of retirement life ever since it was established in 1935. We all think we know how it works, but how much do you really know? Here are nine things that might surprise you.

1. The Social Security trust fund is huge. It was $2.8 trillion at the end of 2022.1

2. Most workers are eligible for Social Security benefits, but not all. For example, until 1984, federal government employees were part of the Civil Service Retirement System and were not covered by Social Security.2

3. You don't have to work long to be eligible. If you were born in 1929 or later, you need to work for 10 or more years to be eligible for benefits.3

4. Benefits are based on an individual's average earnings during a lifetime of work under the Social Security system. The calculation is based on the 35 highest years of earnings. If an individual has years of low or no earnings, Social Security may count those years to bring the total years to 35.4

5. There haven't always been cost-ofliving adjustments (COLA) in Social Security benefits. Before 1975, increasing benefits required an act of Congress; now, increases happen automatically, based on the Consumer Price Index. There was a COLA increase of

8.7% in 2023, but there was an increase of 5.9% in 2022.5

6. Social Security is a major source of retirement income for 64% of current retirees.6

7. Social Security benefits are subject to federal income taxes – but it wasn't always that way. In 1983, Amendments to the Social Security Act made benefits taxable, starting with the 1984 tax year.7

8. Social Security recipients received a single lump-sum payment from 1937 until 1940. Onetime payments were considered "payback" to those people who contributed to the program. Social Security administrators believed these people would not participate long enough to be vested for monthly benefits.8

9. In January 1937, Earnest Ackerman became the first person in the U.S. to receive a Social Security benefit – a lump sum of 17 cents.8

1. SSA.gov, 2023; 2. Investopedia.com, April 4, 2023

3. SSA.gov, 2023; 4. SSA.gov, 2023; 5. SSA. gov, 2023; 6. EBRI.org, 2022; 7. SSA.gov, 2023;

8. SSA.gov, 2023 this artiCle was submitteD by bob PoDraza of robert james inVestments at 1313 west broaD street, quakertown he Can be reaCheD at 215-583-5013 or at robertjamesinVestments Com

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

BY GARY WECKSELBLATT

Dr. Matthew Friedman, a highly respected educational leader in districts in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, was sworn in as the next superintendent of the Quakertown Community School District on Wednesday, July 5.

President Judge Wallace H. Bateman Jr. administered the Oath of Office to Dr. Friedman, who shared the exciting moment with his family - wife Rebecca, and children Hannah, Rachel, and Ethan - members of the QCSD administration and School Board in the Bucks County Justice Center.

“I am excited for this incredible opportunity,” Dr. Friedman said. “It is a true privilege and honor to be part of this amazing school community, and I am humbled by it. I look forward to partnering with all stakeholders in this upcoming journey to accomplish the District’s mission and vision to prepare our students for life after graduation as wellrounded, responsible individuals and engaged citizens who contribute their knowledge and skills to our global community.”

He said having so many people on hand to witness his swearing-in ceremony “made it that much more special for me and my family.”

Dr. Friedman replaces Dr. Bill Harner, who retired after leading QCSD for nearly a decade.

Board President Glenn Iosue said "We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Friedman in guiding Quakertown Community School District. Dr. Friedman is a passionate educator and visionary leader. He will advance the education of our students and continue to bring our schools to an even higher and more successful level.”

Dr. Friedman, previously Superintendent of Ocean City (NJ) School District, was approved in a unanimous vote by the QCSD School Board at a Special Call meeting on March 28. He is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University and other distinguished universities. He began his career 24 years ago as a teacher and truly loved his time in the classroom. He realized, however, the need to make an impact on more students and became an administrator.

Dr. Friedman, who signed a four-year contract, was hired after a four-month national search. The search included a community survey that received hundreds of responses, multiple interviews with the School Board along with stakeholder group interviews with parents, community leaders, principals, administrators, teachers, professional office staff, and support staff.

Dr. Friedman has a wealth of experience. He advanced in his career with positions of increasing responsibility over the years. This has included Assistant Principal, Chief Academic Officer, Assistant Superintendent, and Superintendent at top-ranked schools. He makes tremendous strides in implementing successful and innovative programs to help students improve their performance in pursuing college or a career.

“I am student and family focused and committed to building upon best practices to ensure that current and future students have opportunities to explore their interests and find their true passions,” Dr. Friedman said. “I also look forward to listening and learning from - truly partnering with - all stakeholders in our community. It’s time for all of us to do great things, and I’m excited to get started.”

Potter Recognized for 30 Years of Service to Trumbauersville

Frederick J. Potter of Trumbauersville has been recognized by the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs for over 30 years of service to the borough. Potter currently serves on Borough Council and has served as both President and vice president. He chairs the Public Services committee and serves on the borough's planning commission. He has also fulfilled a number of other important roles always pitchong in where needed.

Pictured: Fred Potter (left) receives the Board of Directors award from PSAB President (and Council President) Edward Child.

photo by jim black

“Do work that matters. Choose to participate in initiatives that will positively impact the world and help make a difference in your community.” - Germany Kent

American Legion Post 242 Update

BY DICK HELM

Even though August is usually an in between month in activities; your Post has much to report to you this month.

Our Adjutant, Charles Wismer, would like for me to report some statistics on events, fundraisers, and sponsorships. As normal we want to remind you that we have wonderful meals scheduled for Friday nights that are usually open to the public. In the fall our Sons organization will resume the monthly Sunday breakfasts. Don’t forget our Patriot Day services on September 11th at the Post (9/11 services honoring those lost that day and our first responders). Most important mark your calendar for the Veteran’s Day services for the Upper Bucks area. We will have greater details as to date, time, and place this is to be held in future issues as November 11th is on a Saturday and we usually have the services in a local school auditorium.

Getting back to Charlie’s statistics. For two years our Post renewal had hit 100%.

Although we proudly announce the addition of “28” new members we missed achieving a full goal by 8% (92). Realizing times are tough we are glad that so many of your kept up your membership. We are a very active organization bringing many important public functions to the community honoring our vets and most important keeping our youth occupied with healthy activities as well as helping veterans in their time of need. At this time Charley ask me to remind you to put your renewal in the mail and send it out early so it

is not forgotten or misplaced and we miss our 100% goal for this year (2023-2024).

Once again the membership came through and helped us raise around $2600.00 for the Veteran’s drawing. As Mr. Wismer would say, “Great JOB!” Les Walter’s our Service Officer wants to remind those veterans to keep a lookout for new information about Agent Orange and the water contamination at the Camp LeJeune. We hosted one seminar on this that was well attended and hope to have another seminar with persons from the local Federal and State Political regions available to answer any questions. Keep a lookout for such meeting announcements on our NEW roadside bulletin board for more information.

When asked, we help sponsor two baseball organizations. Last year we donated funds to two important baseball teams in our area. One is the “Baseball for Special People” and the other is the Legion team. If you have been listening to TV Sports you would be aware that the Legion team is doing great and we wish them the best in their title games.

Great Going Gang!

Remember that we care! We care about our Veteran’s and their physical and mental health and we care about the future of country-The children. That is why we ask you to care about your legion in sending in that membership and supporting our yearly functions for our two fundraisers. One fundraiser for Veteran’s the other for Youth.

~ FOR GOD & COUNTRY, Dick

Ponderings by Palma

BY PALMA MOYER, RN

Looking back over my life, at some memorable moments.

I remember my Wedding - it was a big deal because I was raised Catholic and was marrying a Mennonite. The whole Italian clan on my side came to see what was going happen and the Mennonites wondered about Italians. Our wedding reception was held at my husband’s farm; chickens were killed and there were lots of homemade goodies from the Pennsylvania Dutch side of my new husband’s family. My family - not to be outdone- invited many to a celebration at my home with lots of Italian food and drink. My side of the family wondered what kind of church doesn't give wedding rings. The explanation is that you’re supposed to show you were married by your actions, not jewelry. I was still working at Temple hospital and was happy to get back to work after being married.

The next memorable things were the births of my children. After the first child was born, Ed, my husband, decided he needed to go to college. It was in the midwest, and not being

Helm

Weekend Events

rich we had a friend who offered to move our furniture in his empty pig truck. He was going out to Indiana with an empty truck to get a load of pigs to bring back to Pennsylvania. We got to our attic apartment in the summertime and it was very very hot with no air conditioning. We moved in with the help of friendly neighbors.

I started to work the night shift, sleeping during the day and working at night. This one particular day was blistering hot and I was sleeping in the nude to be cooler. I noticed Ed had shut the bedroom door. I got up yelling at him, “What are you trying to do, cook me?” I threw open the door, still yelling at Ed. There was the Minister and his wife came to welcome us to Goshen. I carefully backed into the bedroom and returned fully clothed as if nothing out of the ordinary happened. This was the first of my adventures while working at the local hospital. The rest will follow as I remember them. Thanks for all the support in reading my adventures.

~As Always, Palma Moyer

Palma is a 1957 graDuate of temPle uniVersity hosPital sChool of nursing she shares her exPerienCes anD PersPeCtiVes on nursing anD on life she Can be reaCheD at DonthelPmemoyer@aol Com

We Means You

I finally, after all these years, figured out that “we” means “you”. We don’t have company that often, but when we do, Shelli loves to cook the meal, as well as dessert. If it’s in season, she uses vegetables from our garden.

She enjoys cooking for large groups, especially family, and loves entertaining. (I on the other hand would be happy sitting on me arse and watching whatever show I happen to be binging, along with a glass of my favorite beverage du jour.)

Since I am retired and Shelli is still working and bringing home the bacon, I do most of the cleaning and ancillary things that need to be done around our tiny little farmhouse.

I think she feels bad asking me to do things, although I rarely mind doing whatever those things might be. So, instead of asking me, she uses “we”.

If she is heading into work, we usually leave each other a note. This weekend we had family over and she baked a chocolate cake, and this morning I saw her morning note which asked, “Can we put the chocolate cake in the freezer?”

I read it, and thought to myself, “Why doesn’t she just ask if I would put it

in the freezer?”

So, I waited, and the cake sat there in a cake dish, covered, on top of the kitchen counter, next to the red wine bottles so I knew she would see it.

One day passed. Then a second. Finally, on the third day, Shelli said, “I thought you were going to put the cake away?”

To which I replied, “No. you just asked if we could, and I thought sure. Makes sense. But you never asked me to.”

She stared at me with the look that by now I know means that while I think I’m being cute and funny, she doesn’t. And she is Judge Judy in this house.

So the next day I took the still fresh (good cake tin!) fantastic chocolate cake (Shelli’s a great cook/baker), cut it into a few pieces and then into the freezer.

Job done.

But now I’m thinking that it might me my turn to ask an important question.

“Sweetheart, can we go upstairs and get “reacquainted”?”. (our code word for you know what)

Hopefully she doesn’t make me wait three days.

john sChaninger is a lifelong resiDent of PennsylVania anD has liVeD in uPPer blaCk eDDy for oVer 13 years reaCh him at m12string@aol Com

My wife Nina and I and our dog Brandi made the trek up to our Summer Home in between volunteer functions and Doctor’s visits for a few days around the 22’d of July. I am going to share with you as I shared with fellow residents of Milford Township, Roger and Patti Sigmans activities that brought back memories of my younger days.

I can remember as a boy wondering what type of community event or social gathering our family might attend on the “Weekend.” There was always some sort of parade, firemen’s carnival, church picnic, or town gathering happening in the towns or townships of Upper Bucks County. Many times my parents had to choose one place to go out of two or three available. These functions were listed in the Daily Free Press, or heard from the speakers of Ahlum’s sound truck criss-crossing the streets of each small town, the then local radio station WBUX, church bulletin boards, or fire house signs. Most social halls were booked for weddings or special dinners every weekend. Granges had their all you can eat meals in the fall of each year. Now it is hard pressed to find something to do as a community. People have to volunteer to make these events happen. If there is a function it is usually put up by an organization that has various vendors selling their goods and food trucks. I wish to thank the various local governments for hosting community days or agriculture days, etc. to get people involved. Last evening we heard a lot of oldies presented by local artists (The Starlight’s) over at Milford Townships new entertainment facility. It just happened that our friends Roger & Patti Sigmans were also there. While listening to the performance I though it would be interesting to step back in time with another event that we spent time with them over 200 miles from home. I will call it a step back in time.

When we arrive up for a usual five-day stay upstate we tune in our radio to a local station for the usual calendar of events for the weekend in the surrounding towns and counties. This is a step back in time by about 40 years to our area local news around here. (This publication still gives us an idea of happenings in Upper Bucks if the information is sent to them.) In the case of meeting the Sigmans, we were aware of the special event they were participating in at Coudersport, Pa. It took us about one hour to drive up to the Potter County area county seat. It was “Eliot Ness Fest” weekend.

If you can remember back to the time when we had the rabbit ears or outside antenna and received the channels 3, 6, 10 or 12, there was a program call “The Untouchables.” It told of the period of time in Chicago when the mob ruled under the leadership of Al Capone. Crime was rampant and the US Treasury

Prohibition agent credited with cleaning up the syndicate and crimes was Eliot Ness. Eliot’s history is quite interesting and his career extended into Ohio. Eliot Ness settled into a home in Coudersport, Pa. where he passed away in 1935. He is interred in a grave in Ohio. Each week we would all be seated in the living room to watch this Walter Winchell narrated series.

Roger and his son finished the restoration of a 1926 Harley Davidson “Pea Shooter” style motorcycle that Roger’s uncle did such a great job before him when he had a motorcycle shop in Pleasant Valley. This style motorcycle is “One cylinder” with 3 ½ horsepower and when it runs the exhaust has a certain putt, putt sound. This motorcycle could reach speeds of nearly 60 mph. Roger states that he would never try those speeds with the light frame and braking system that the stripped down cycle had to achieve this speed. This offering of showing this beautiful restoration was so well received that they displayed his motorcycle directly in front of the local museum. The Fest organizers literally had busy route “6” shut down for 3 days so they could have the town looking like the 1920’s and 1930’s. I stood in the very wide main street of this picturesque town in northern Pennsylvania and there were no modern cars parked. The street looked like a picture from the 1930’s. Many of the participants were dressed in garb of the period. Women were in the Roaring Twenties type flapper dresses and men were in white shirts with suspenders, black garter type ribbons, and appropriate hats of the period. Some of them had reproduction “Tommy Guns” nearby. It was “Stepping Back in Time!” The screen of our Dimmig Electric Philco TV became alive!

Can you imagine this “Fest” happening here in Upper Bucks with men walking around with disarmed Tommy Guns? We really enjoyed this and want to thank this fellow Upper Bucks family and friends Roger, Patti, and Ryan Sigmans for putting the finishing touches on this gem of a motorcycle and hauling up to “God’s Country” so all could enjoy.

Gone are many of the myriad of public events here in Upper Bucks. The community governments and various organizations are trying to revitalize these very important social gatherings that are truly need to knit a community together. So next time they block Broad Street for a community day, or have a Township Community or Farm Day, push yourself away from the computer or shut the children’s phone down and you all come out to enjoy the event and meet your neighbors! You to will have pleasant memories such as we had in Coudersport at Eliot Ness Fest. We send a big thank you to the Sigmans for their flatlanders contribution to an event in God’s Country!

DiCk helm is a long time quakertown area

The answers to the puzzles on this page are found elsewhere in this issue.

Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.

Have something to share with your community? Send it to us! UBFP • 582 S. West End Blvd, Ste 2 • Quakertown, PA 18951 info@ubfp.org • fb.com/ubfreepress • www.ubfp.org

Alligator Adder

Anaconda Anole Axolotl Boa Caiman Chameleon

Cobra Copperhead Crocodile Dinosaur

KomodoIguanaDragon

Lizard Mudpuppy

Newt Olm

Snake

Tadpole Taipan Toad

Tortoise Tuatara Turtle Viper

Frog Gecko Gila Monster

Python Skink

“The children start school now in August. They say it has to do with air-conditioning, but I know sadism when I see it.” - Rick Bragg

Collecting the Makings for Crab Soup

Many might disagree but I am not a hoarder. I’m a collector. Yes, I’ve accumulated a lot of stuff some would consider junk, but I also have hundreds of pounds of fossils, a large Indian artifact collection and albums of stamps, coins and old postcards. In display cabinets I show off my glass hatchets, glass knives and antique milk-glass eggs collections. Among the thousands of books in my library are many autographed or collectable editions, obscure research volumes and leather-bound literature sets. I have decades of encyclopedia year books and Military History magazines in binders. There is some ‘junk’, though, like the half-peck of baseballs and golf balls I’ve found, or the rusty axe, sledge, shovel, and pick-heads out in the shed next to the three sets of tire chains and old car-jacks. I have plenty of ‘semi-collectables’, too: boxes of Boy Scout stuff, vinal record albums, my dad’s coffee cup collection, the kids’ musical instruments, etc. Some’s good yard sale stuff, anyway. I keep ‘family antiques’ in Grammy Hinkel’s passeddown, mahogany ‘dishes’ cabinet. I also have a bunch of small display boxes of ‘special’ rocks and seashells that I’ve collected in our travels. My attempt to supplement that seashell collection while in Texas on our drive to California, spawned a troubling, perplexing mystery. then horror over our happy home. It began at the house in Pioneertown, days ‘after the fact’. First, it was just a perplexing mystery, but it soon became to a spooky, seemingly supernatural situation that had fatal consequences. The unexpected tragedy prompted a sense of guilt and sadness that inspired introspection. It will forever be one of those ‘bad memories’ we all carry and occasional mull over.

My wife and I were in South Padre Island, Texas. [Padre is the world’s longest barrier-island (~200-miiles)]. It’s mostly wildlife refuge and grassy dunes, but for the resort town on its southern tip. Our KOA site was bayside on Laguna Madre. It adjoined a promenade/park that was adjacent to a brushy, bird-frequented, tidal mud-flat. The dog and I strolled the shoreline. As usual, I collected a couple of dozen seashells—and a little crab claw. I laid them out on the RV’s table for my wife to appreciate, then put them in Baggies and stowed them for the rest of the drive: up the Rio Grande to El Paso, across the Sonoran to Tucson then Quartzite then on to Joshua Tree in the Mojave an up to our place in the San Bernardino foothills. That took a couple days. A day or two after we arrived, I got around to the seashells, cleaning and sorting them for display before grandkids visited. They were mostly cone-shaped, curled shells. Some were spiky, others pointy and smooth. There were several snail-type ones and a few small clams—and one little crab claw. I spread them out on a towel on the lunch-table in our sunroom and left them to dry and be admired.

Next morning, my wife asked, “Why are your seashells all over the floor?” I was surprised to find many of them scattered around the sun-room. “Maybe the cat got hungry,” I sniffed the crab little claw for a clue. She blamed mice. I suggested a poltergeist. I gathered up my ‘enchanted’ collection and put them aside in a pot of well water.

That evening my wife pestered, “When are you going to do something with those shells?” So, I put them out on the towel to dry again, with plans to finish in the morning before she got up. But, when I got to it, they were scattered around the room again! I’d closed the door so it wasn’t the dog or cat. There were no other signs of rodents. Windows were closed there was no wind. “Poltergeist!” I speculated again.

I picked up a couple errant shells to examine. There were little claws sticking out! They moved, disappeared inside when I touched them. Hermit crabs! Half my shells were stuffed with crab! No mystery; just desperate, pathetic efforts to escape a slow death.

The wife and I were both horrified. Visions of crabs crawling around the house in the night gave her the heebie-jeebies. Me too, but I also felt guilty and sad. The poor crabs were snatched up, put in plastic bags out of water for days. Then their misery was extenuated by a futile hope of escape. Ridiculously, I wondered if I could save them, as pets. Haul a saltwater aquarium cross-country in the RV!? I actually considered driving the couple hours down to Laguna and dumping them in the Pacific. But I just had to accept my guilt and complete the mass-murder. I put them back in the pot and ‘mulled’ a while.

“I can dump them outback, let them slowly desiccate, or I can boil ‘em and get it over with quick.” I offered my wife a vote in the decision so she could fully share in the tragedy. She frowned and just stared at me for a pretty long time before passing sentence: “Boil them, I guess.”

I’ve read that bringing up the water temperature slowly minimizes suffering, unlike dropping lobsters into boiling pots. My cooked pet hermit crabs turned orange, like regular crabs and shrimp do. I pulled them out of their ‘collectable’, commandeered homes by their little claws, which now hung limply. I got a descent pile of crab meat. I’m a survivalist and considered it, just for a minute, but didn’t have the nerve to even taste one. I thought about feeding the dog, but instead took the orange corpses outback, troweled a hole and buried them.

I re-boiled my seashell collection—in cluding the little crab claw--cleaned them up and now have a “Rio Grande, Gulf of Mexico Coast” display box next to the “Galveston”, “Navarre Beach” and “Key West” Gulf Coast ones. Whenever I look at that box, I remember the tragedy. But I’ll still get craving for a bowl of good crab soup.

jaCk sChiCk is a long time area resiDent anD regular Contributor at ubfP. reaCh him at sjCks

Approximately 25 members & friends attended the annual 4th of July bell ringing ceremony at the

QCHS Alumni Spotlight: Helena van Emmerik-Finn '66

BY RAY FOX '66

Before beginning this month's QCHS Spotlight Article, I want mention how wonderful it has been to receive so many positive comments about last month's article which featured the nine Alumni Scholarship Winners, the three Wall of Fame Inductees, and the Honorary Diploma Recipient. This month will bring us back to the typical articles featuring the talent and accomplishments of former QCHS graduates.

This month’s article is about Helena van Emmerik-Finn who graduated from QCHS in 1966.

Helena was a talented artist during her high school years and has continued her artwork throughout her life. During High School she was the Recall co-art editor as well as a participant on the Prom Decorating Committee. She also played a role in the school Play. Her most fond memories from High School have to do with art class. She mentioned that Mr. Nye, her art teacher, played a significant role in her future. She was able to participate in two art classes every day as well as going to the art room during study hall and after school. The art department gave her the opportunity to learn a wide variety of arts and crafts. She also mentioned Mr. Klingaman as one of her favorite teachers. As did many of her classmates in the mid 60’s, she particular ly enjoyed attending dances at St. Isidore’s on weekends.

After High School Helena attended the Philadelphia College of Art, now University of the Arts, majoring in graphic design, photography, and film making. During the summers, she worked as a sketch artist on the Boardwalk at the Jersey Shore. She did this for about nine years and saved her money to travel. Her travels took her to Europe, North Africa, and India. She spent two years doing sketches in charcoal and pastel in London and lived in the West End. She was also a carnival artist for some time. While there, one of her most famous subjects was doing a portrait of Bob Marley, famous reggae musician.

Helena also drew caricatures done in felt tip pen and chalk. She always had a fine eye for detail which shows in all her artwork. It took about twenty-five years of doing this kind of work before her career really took off. She has done mostly impressionistic work in pastels and oil paint. One of her favorite subjects is painting animals, but she also enjoys landscapes and still life. Living in Bucks County, many of her pieces are of scenes in Bucks County. Here family moved to this area from Holland, shortly before she was born. Her ancestry has caused her to have a significant interest in painting scenes from The Netherlands including windmills and tulips. Back here in Bucks County, she even spent time as a caricaturist in the early days of Sesame Place. Her work in pastels expanded more than forty years and more recently she has been doing more work in oil painting. She feels that she has become more confident in her painting over the years which has brought about a bolder approach using more vibrant colors.

Helena has participated in many are exhibits including Plein Air in Easton and Bucks County

Plein Air Festival, where she took second place in 2018 and 2019. She was the featured artist at the Tinicum Arts Festival in 2018. Her art was exhibited at the Rittenhouse Square Fine Arts Annual from 1986-2013. She was the first prize winner in Pastel for twelve years and best of show at the Lititz Fine Arts Annual in 2004. She took first place for three years and best of show for four years at the Cape May Outdoor Art Show. She has exhibited for fourteen years at the Phillips Mill Annual Art Exhibition and twenty-two years at the Yellow Springs Art Show. She was the Poster Artist in 2008 for the Wilmington Flower Market. Presently, she still participates in many local art shows and has given demonstrations and lectures at Delaware Valley University as part of their Center for Learning in Retirement. She is a member of the Peace Valley Plein Air Painters and enjoys plein air painting. About half of her works have been done in her own studio after taking photographs of her subjects and working from the photographs. There has been a feature article about Helena in the Bucks County Magazine written by freelance writer Michele Malinchak. She has also been featured in an Art Talk interview with Laura Womack of Phillips’ Mill Art from New Hope. This interview includes pictures and a review of several of her works and can be found at phillipsmill. org. or on YouTube.

Helena’s family background is quite interesting as well. Her parents moved to America from Holland just before she was born. They settled in Upper Black Eddy and Durham before moving to Haycock Township. She has four older siblings. Plans for Lake Nockamixon were developed in 1953 and a dam was built with the Park opening in December, 1973. The land where Helena grew up is where the Lake exists today. For her elementary school years, Helena attended St. John the Baptist School in Ottsville. After eighth grade Helena began attending Quakertown Community High School. Helena married Bob Finn in 1986, who she met in Doylestown while waitressing at the Doylestown Inn. They have lived in Doylestown for the last thirty years and have enjoyed traveling to Hawaii, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean.

The Quakertown Community Alumni Association encourages alumni to participate in the Association activities. Its mission includes fundraising to provide scholarship opportunities each year for graduating seniors. Please check out our Facebook Page “Quakertown High School Alumni Association” and the Alumni page of the QCSD.org website for more information. We are a 501(c)(3) organization and always welcome any contributions toward our scholarship endeavors. If you are interested in donating, please email Qchsalumniboard@ gmail.com and you will receive instructions on how to do so. Comments and ideas for future articles can be sent to Ray Fox at rdefox@msn.com.

The Alumni board is a group of dedicated people who strive to support the students and alumni as much as we can. You could say that we “bleed blue” but more importantly, that we embody the Quakertown motto: “Enter To Learn; Leave To Serve.”

Have questions about Rain Barrels, Backyard Stormwater Management, and Rain Gardens?

Contact the Bucks County Cooperative Extension Garden/Master Watershed Steward Hotline. This is a free service for Bucks County residents. The Penn State Master Gardeners and Penn State Master Watershed Stewards are extensively trained volunteers available to answer questions about good home gardening practices, issues with outdoor and indoor plants, trees, soil, insects, pests, ponds, backyard stormwater management, streamside property stewardship, rain gardens, rain barrels, native plant selection and installation, habitat improvement and water quality. Contact us by phone 267-483-2020 or email Bucksmg@psu.edu.

Got Tomato Problems? Extreme heat and lack of rain can wreak havoc on gardens according to many of our Hotline emails. “Why aren’t my tomatoes ripening?” has been a common question. Optimal temperatures for tomatoes are 70 to 80 degrees. Temperatures either below or above can “stall” the growth or ripening of tomatoes. Consistent ground watering and proper fertilization are essential to avoid plant stress which can cause fungal diseases such as Septoria Leaf Spot and Blossom End Rot, a nutrient deficiency.

Septoria Leaf Spot is a foliar disease of Tomatoes caused by the fungus Septoria lycopersici. Typical symptoms are small brown spots on lower (oldest) leaves of the plant that eventually spread until leaves yellow and die. If left unchecked the fungus will cause the fruit to have poor color and flavor. By removing infected leaves and maintaining good watering practices you may prevent loss of fruit quality. Be sure to discard infected leaves in the trash (do not compost).

Blossom End Rot is a common condition on tomatoes caused by a calcium deficiency either in the soil or by insufficient watering. It first manifests as a dark brownish black spot on the blossom end of the fruit. The spot will spread and the fruit will eventually rot. If the condition has been caused by insufficient water you may be able to remove all affected fruit and begin regular watering. Later bearing fruit may develop normally.

These are just a few of the common tomato problems. This Penn State online publication describes many more: t.ly/bKGw7 Got Insect Pests? Tomato Hornworms are the large green larvae of the Five-spotted Hawkmoth (Manduca quinquemaculata). They are large and can do considerable damage in the garden. Hand picking is the preferred method of control. If you see one with tiny white eggs on its back it has been visited by the tiny Braconid Wasp which has laid its eggs on the larvae. No need to pick them off. When the eggs hatch the wasp larvae will consume the caterpillar for you.

Marmorated Stink Bugs (Halyomorpha halys Stål) have piercing-sucking mouthparts and the degree of damage can be significant. Spraying the plant with Kaolin Clay can help prevent the bug from laying its eggs and feeding. It is safe for edibles and will wash off. Removing weeds and debris where stink bugs hide can help to keep populations down. Encouraging beneficial insects such as lacewings, praying mantis and ladybugs can help control populations.

Fall Gardening: August can be a great time to plant crops such as beets, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrots, beans, onions and leafy greens. Typical first frost dates in our area range from the end of October to the first week of November. If you are direct seeding in the garden, count back from the frost date to the number of days to maturity on the seed packet to determine the date to plant. For example, Blue Lake Green Beans days to maturity are 58. Therefore, you can seed in the ground about two months before frost and still enjoy a mature crop.

Visit the Master Gardeners and Master Watershed Stewards at the Wrightstown Fair August 16th-20th.

Our Home Garden/Watershed Hotline is open Monday thru Friday, 9-12 and 1-4. Bucksmg@psu.edu or 267-483-2020

Our new office is being staffed in person on Tuesday and Thursday between 1 and 4, and some other dates and times.Penn State Extension Bucks County, 576 Penns Park Road, Newtown, PA 18940

photo credits: Penn State Master Gardener Program

Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!

BCOC Receives $10,000 Grant for Wheelz2Work Program

The Bucks County Opportunity Council (BCOC) received a $10,000 grant from the Gene and Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Fund in support of the Wheelz2work Program.

Wheelz2Work is operated by BCOC, in partnership with Bucks County Community College and the Epstein Humanitarian Fund and support from Univest Financial.

donated vehicle, Wheelz2Work, since its inception has changed over 500 lives. There are approximately 20 families currently awaiting a vehicle through the program.

BCOC is the only agency in this region that directly provides vehicles to local families, so donating a car has a significant, direct impact on our Bucks County neighbors in need.

“Tears, happy dances, and sighs of relief are just a few ways ES participants celebrate being handed keys to their very own vehicle,” says Erin Lukoss, Executive Director/CEO of

poverty, 501(c)(3) non-profit agency in Bucks County, the mission of BCOC is to reduce poverty, and partner with our community to promote economic self-sufficiency. BCOC is a member of the nationwide Community Action Association network, the authority on

income families in Bucks County by helping them to stabilize when in crisis, garner resources to achieve a livable wage, gain additional education and training, and work

See the Signs

It will be two years in September that my mother died. It does not seem possible, yet it does because it has been the longest two years of my life. I miss my mother. Her name was Helen. She was everything to me. I looked forward to seeing her and spending as much time as I could with her. There is a huge void in my life without her.

up in my life when they are supposed to i.e., when I am aligned with the universe.

Last year I had my first dream about my mom. It was beautiful. She and I were sitting together on a bench. I looked at her and said how much I loved and missed her. She said she knew and felt the same way and she hugged me. I felt her embrace and woke up feeling more at peace with her not being here with me in the physical world.

additional training, job interviews or have been unable to apply for higher paying jobs at a greater distance from home because of unsafe or unreliable transportation.

While BCOC is close to accepting its 100th

For details on how to participate in the Wheelz2Work Program, visit wheelz2work. com or contact Eileen Hartnett Albillar at BCOC, 215-345-8175, ext. 209 or email ealbillar@bcoc.org.

With that being said, I have been able to find ways to connect with her in spirit. What that means is that I believe in signs. I believe that she has been connecting with me for the past two years through signs. The first sign I received from her was maybe 6 weeks after she died. I was in my office seeing a client. I had this Halloween skeleton figurine that sat on my table and the skeleton’s legs hung over the side of this table.

For no reason the skeleton fell off and it broke its leg in the same spot that mother had when she fell and needed knee replacement. I laughed and could not believe it once I looked at it. I looked up and said “hello” to my mother. I could see her laughing which made me smile. I was not upset by this sign.

In the early days of my grief there were probably more signs, but I just was not ready to see them all. I was so immersed in my grief that if they were there, I was not fully present to receive them. When I was attending a grief group there were members talking about how their loved one came to them in a dream. I was so upset because I wanted to see my mother in a dream and never dreamt of her.

I talked to others in my life that were supportive of me and understood grief and they said that maybe I was not ready or it would happen when it was supposed to happen. I am a firm believer that things and people will show

When I am missing her, I have walked into a restaurant and on the radio will be Frank Sinatra. She loved him. I was in Florida in April visiting my daughter and we were on our way to my grandson’s prom. We passed a street with the same name as my mother’s street when she was alive. I said to my daughter look at your GPS that is my mom’s street. We both looked up and said Hello I miss and love you. The next day we went to Target and decided to check out and the woman’s name was Helen (it was on her tag.)

There have been lots of other signs. I do not believe in coincidences. I believe in signs. They help me heal and connect with my mother. I recently read a book about Signs so that I could learn more just in case I was missing more. This book was phenomenal for me. It was called SIGNS The Secret Language of the Universe by Laura Lynne Jackson. I have been writing about grief for the past 18 months, and have learned that everyone grieves differently. There is no right or wrong way of grieving. I am sharing my experience to support those who are struggling and I want to know that they are not alone. I am living one day at a time with and without my mother by my side. 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 area she Can be reaCheD at susan@susanVbrewer Com

Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship

Good News Church

Bible Baptist Church

Meets at HIghland Park Dining Hall

415 Highland Park Road

Sellersville, PA 18960

484-523-3333

www.biblebaptistcares.org

Pastor: Tom Harris

Bible Study Hour 9:30 am, Morning Worship 10:30 am, Services interpreted for the deaf

Christ Church United Church of Christ

101 N. Main Street

Trumbauersville, PA 18970

215-538-0142

christchurch10@verizon.net

www.christchurchisalive.org

Pastor: David Heckler

A friendly, welcoming church. Change fear into hope, doubt into faith. God is calling.

Join us at 11am Sunday. Halleleujah!

Christ’s Lutheran Church

1 Luther Lane

Trumbauersville, PA 18970

215-536-3193

christselca@verizon.net

www.christslutheran.com

9:00am Worship, 10:15 Sunday School, Handicapped accessible, Family Friendly Church. Find us on Facebook!

Church of the Incarnation

44 S. 8th Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-538-3787

Ardores@verizon.net

www.IncarnationQuakertown.org

Pastor: Most Rev. Thomas J. Kleppinger

Traditional worship, Biblical faith

Sunday 10:30am, Holy Days as announced.

Emmanuel Episcopal Church

560 S. Main Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-3040

emmanuelchurch11@yahoo.com

www.emmanuelquakertown.org

Sunday service at 10am, Visitors and new members always welcome!

First United Church of Christ

151 S. Fourth Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-4447

info@firstUCC.net

Facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertown

Senior Pastor: Rev. Jon C. Bauman

Min. of Visitation & Pastoral Care: Elaine Ely

Join us in person Sundays 9:15am Join us online at www.firstUCC.net. Community Lunch

2nd Saturday Drive through pickup 9am. Community Dinner 3rd Thursday 5:30pm (eat in).

BY PASTOR JON BAUMAN

A few weeks ago, I went to our national denominational gathering, called General Synod. It was soothing to hear the whole room of 2000 people sing “Be Thou My Vision" together. It was encouraging to meet more pastor friends. But, as any larger gathering brings about, there were a lot of questions of identity being asked, explicitly or implicitly: Who are we as Christians, as a global whole? Who are we as a national Church? Who are we as local churches? Who are we as individual Christians?

I can’t speak for everyone there, but here’s what I’ve been thinking about:

I’ve long been someone who didn’t see much need for firm denominational lines. I see things about the Catholic Church that I admire as they focus on the power of prayer. I see things about the Orthodox Church that strikes me with awe as I look up at painted depictions of saints in heaven who lived lives of faith that are worthy of remembering. I see things about the historic “mainline Protestant” denominations that inspire me to “pray with my feet”. I know my Mennonite roots that drive me to love like Jesus, even in extreme circumstances. And from my college years, I know things about the evangelical tradition that drive me to continue my lifelong study of the Holy Bible; delighting in the power of a holy, good, and true story. All these things are a part of all the churches, to some degree, but we all have different areas of emphasis to highlight.

My grandfather, J. Walter Hackman, had

424 Juniper Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-4393

Pastor: David Markey, Jr.

An alternative to the ultra-contemporary Sunday Worship and Children’s Church 10:30 am, Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm, World Evangelism Fellowship affiliate.

Grace Bible Fellowship Church

1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N. Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-6096

grace@quakertownbfc.org

www.quakertownbfc.org

Sr. Pastor: Ron Kohl

Sunday School for all ages. 10:10am Morning Worship, Small group meetings 2nd & 4th

Sundays 6:30pm; Tues: Ladies Bible Study 9:45am; Wed: AWANA (2 yrs - 6th grade) & Teens for Christ 6:30pm, Adult prayer meeting 6:45pm Juniper Street Bible Church

317 Juniper Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

267-373-9115

Pastor: Bob Stevenson

www.juniperstreetbiblechurch.org

Sunday worship 10am (also watch live on our Facebook page), Tuesday 7pm Bible study and prayer. We offer an invitation to you. Come and worship with us.

Morning Star Fellowship

429 S. 9th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-529-6422

Pastors: John & Theresa Decker www.mstarqtown.org

Sunday Services at 9 am and 11 am. Our cafe is open with free coffee. Children’s Ministries provided. Celebrate Recovery on Tuesdays at 7 pm. Student Ministries on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. Weekly Connections. For updates and schedule changes, check our website.

Palisades Community Bible Church

8730 Easton Road

Revere, PA 18953

610-847-2637

secretary@pcbchurch.com www.pcbchurch.com

Pastor: Rev. Corbin Seltzer, Jr.

Sunday School (all ages) 9:30am, Sunday

Morning Worship 10:30am, Tuesday Prayer Meeting 7:00pm, Men & Ladies’ Bible Studies - see website. “Walk by Faith.” ii cor. 5:7

a quote that went something like this, “I’m a Christian; I’m just docking with the Mennonites”. It was meant to convey the message that yes, he was tied to a group of Christians, but it wasn’t his prime identity; his identity was as a follower of Christ. And I guess I would answer the question of “what is a Christian” in a similar way as he did: A Christian is one who follows the Risen Jesus Christ, as the second person of the triune God, and affirms the simple Gospel message of John 3:16. If I wanted to expand upon that, I’d probably say that a Christian should be able to fully affirm the Nicene Creed…but maybe they don’t get there right away… maybe that’s part of the process of the Holy Spirit’s work on a person’s life. Still, it’s one of the foundations of the global Christian church, and I find connecting to history across boarders incredibly meaningful. Denominations, local churches… well, they can all be different, but if we can all agree on the simplest truths of our faith, then we get to see a glimpse of the Kingdom of God around us. It’s a collection of different people, with different ideas, and we’re all submitting to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. But it’s not enough to just say that you’re a Christian. Anyone can say they accept a list of beliefs, but it’s another thing to live as though you believe them; to love people with the same Gospel that saved you; that saved me. And to actually believe that Jesus raised from the dead when life convinces you of the cloying triumph of defeat.

A lot Christians choose to emphasize either

Pennridge Christian Fellowship

720 Blooming Glen Rd, Blooming Glen 18911 215-257-7309

pastor@pennridgecf.org

www.pennridgecf.org

Pastor: Thomas Vargis

Multicultural Charismatic church worshipping God in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Our service consists of song service, testimonies, and teaching of the word. Live Spanish translation & children’s service at 10:30 Sunday worship. Livestream: fb.com/pennridgechristianfellowship

Quakertown United Methodist Church

1875 Freier Road

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-4992

barb@qumc.com

www.qumc.com

Pastor: Rev. Richard K. Brown II

Sunday schedule: Worship 8:30 am, Sunday School 9:45 am, Worship 11 am Communion first Sunday of each month.

St. Isidore Roman Catholic Church

2545 West Pumping Station Rd Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536-4389

Pastor: Rev. Kenneth C. Brabazon izzyparoff@comcast.net

www.stisidores.org

Sunday Masses - 5:00pm Saturday evenings; 7:00am, 9:00am, & 11:00am on Sunday mornings; 1:00pm in Spanish Sunday afternoons

St. John’s Lutheran Church 4 South Main Street • PO Box 458 Richlandtown, PA 18955 215-536-5027 Admin@stjohnsrpa.org

www.stjohnsrpa.org

Pastor: Rev Dr. David A Genszler

In person worship service Sunday at 9:30 am, Watch our Worship Service anytime on stjohnsrpa.org/sermon or on Facebook.

Activity Center Rentals Open, Capacity 125, call 215-536-5027 to book.

St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown

1565 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Spinnerstown 18968 (GPS Quakertown 18951) 215-536-0734 stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org

Worship Service: 9:30 a.m. Service also is live-streamed on Facebook (St. John’s Lutheran Church, Spinnerstown, PA) and video available on the church website.

Matthew 25 (about treating the least of these among us as Jesus would, and advocating for the care of the poor, the hungry, the outcast), or Matthew 28 (about preaching the Gospel, making disciples who make disciples, and baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Some will even boldly say, oh, I’m a Matthew 25, or, oh, I’m a Matthew 28, kind of Christian! However, forgive me for being blunt: We’re commanded to follow both. And there’s even more to the call of the Gospel than those two chapters.

If we’re preaching, sharing the Gospel, disciplining, and baptizing, but we’re not doing anything to help those in need around us… we fall short.

If we’re feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and fighting for the outcast, but we don’t actually talk about the Gospel of Jesus, disciple anyone, or emphasize the goodness of accepting Christ… we fall short. If we go to church to consume what’s offered, rather than to give what God has given us… we fall short.

If we believe in God, but don’t try to pray, to grow in our understanding of faith through reading the scriptures, hearing them read, or mentally engaging with a worship service…we fall short.

Because all of these things were important to Jesus, and we are called to follow his teachings and actions because of our belief in who he is, and what he has done for us.

We go to church because we need to be confronted by this message in a way that exposes our blind spots; we need other people to show us the plank in our own eye when we’re

St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley

910 Allentown Road, West Rockhill Twp 215-257-9643

stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com www.stjohnsridgevalley.com

Pastor: Rev. Lauren Bruno 8:30am Traditional - 10:15am w/praise band. Grape juice & gluten-free wafers available. Adult Forum 9:40, Handicapped accessible. All invited and welcome to Share the Joy!

St. John the Baptist Parish 4050 Durham Road, Ottsville 18942 610-847-5521 pastor@stjohnsottsville.org www.stjohnsottsville.org

Pastor: Selvaraj Lucas, MSC St. John the Baptist, the first Catholic parish in Bucks County, has served the pastoral needs of Catholics since 1743.

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Applebachsville 837 Old Bethlehem Road, Quakertown 215-536-5789 stpaulsqtown@gmail.com www.stpaulsqtown.org

Pastor: Rev. David Heckler

We believe in sharing God’s love in joyful service. Come and see. All are welcome. St. Paul’s United Church of Christ 104 Green Street Sellersville, PA 18960 215-257-7268

Pastor: Rev. Trudy Irving secretary@stpaulsucc.net www.stpaulsucc.net

Sunday Worship 10:15 in Sanctuary Springfield Mennonite Church 1905 Pleasant View Road Coopersburg PA 18036 267-999-1404

Pastor: Rev. Joseph Wames pastorjoe@springfieldmennonite.org

www.springfieldmennonite.org

Join us at 10:15a Sunday Mornings for a Blended Worship Service, Multi-generational, loving congregation. Biblically and Doctrinally Sound.

Trinity Lutheran Church 102 N. Hellertown Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536.4345 www.trinityquakertown.org

Pastor: Dayle Malloy

9 a.m. Traditional service, 11 a.m. Contemporary Service, 10: 15 a.m. Sunday School, Handicap accessible, Family Friendly, Dynamic Music Ministry, Living God’s Love for All

concerned about the speck in theirs. Sure, we can find God in the woods, or by a lake or ocean, and I certainly do… but sometimes, I mean, most times, I’m a stubborn person who needs to be shown where I need to love more, when I need to preach more, and I also need that community to show me the love of God when no one else will.

And that bread and that cup of juice or wine… those waters of baptism that cleanse us… well, those things preach to me better than any sermon ever could because through them, I can tangibly experience the grace of Jesus Christ. So, I can’t speak for everyone. But at least for now, at least in the time that I’ve allowed myself to jot down these meanderings of my mind, that’s what I believe the basics are about what it means to be a Christian… what it means to strive to follow Jesus… and what it means to be a part of a church. And I’m missing a lot of info here, but it’s a glimpse of my heart, and I hope you hear it beating as you attempt to answer these questions:

What does following Jesus look like to you?

How have you engaged with your faith recently in a meaningful way?

Where is God nudging you to grow?

I hope and I pray that I continually learn more about my own faith, and that I am able to have a connection to Jesus Christ as I go. And I pray the same for all of you.

If you’d like to tell me your story, it would be my honor to hear it. Send an email over to info@firstucc.net and put “pastors pen” in the subject line.

jon bauman is the senior Pastor at first uniteD ChurCh of Christ in quakertown he Can be reaCheD at jbauman@firstuCC net

Employment Opportunities

New Vitae Wellness & Recovery - We have positions starting at $16/ hr. and a $1.00 shift differential for 2nd or 3rd shift. Medical, dental, vision, 401K, tuition reimbursements, biweekly pay, paid holiday, vacation, sick and personal time off, with accruals beginning the first day of employment. Contact Stephanie at 610 483 1311 or skalb@newvitaewellness.com

John's Plain & Fancy - Restaurant help wanted. Servers and Hosts/ Hostesses. Full-time & Part-time. Stop in to apply. 50 S. West End Blvd., Quakertown 215-536-3290

Krause Home and Lawn Care - Seeking 2 or 3 individuals to expand business. Construction experience is helpful. Wage will be based on experience. References requested. Clean driving record and driver’s license required. 267-261-7671

Biagioli Construction - Laborer/ helper wanted for remodeling. Experience is a plus, but willing to train the right person. Contact Joe at Biagioli Construction llc 215-892-3854 or email resume to jbiagioli5775@gmail.com

Where Can I Find the UBFP?

Luke's Hospital

Spring Hill Suites

Tohickon Campground

Upper Bucks Chamber TELFORD

Indian Valley Library

Landis Supermarket

TRUMBAUERSVILLE

Borough Hall

Earl's Pub & Grill

Fino's Pizzeria

Spor's General Store

RICHLANDTOWN

Seven-Eleven

Phoebe Meadow Glen

SPINNERSTOWN Spinnerstown Hotel

E J's Barber Shop

PLEASANT VALLEY Springfield Diner

SELLERSVILLE A & N Diner

Hidden Meadows

Roy Ann Diner

Well, I am sure glad my human is back up walking around and has been taking me to the nursing homes again. But will look at this outfit? I feel like a kid getting stuck wearing his big brothers hand me downs. It’s nice to save money by getting things at yard sales but does it have to be MY outfits? I would like some that actually FIT me. I guess you can tell by the look on my face I wasn’t pleased. Needless to say, I didn’t wear it any longer than getting in the door at the home. Hope you all are patronizing the fire house carnivals. It helps these groups keep running.

~

Hugs

to all, Peanut

BEDMINSTER Weis Markets

PERKASIE

Giant Food Markets

Landis Food Markets

Pierce Library

QNB Bank

SILVERDALE

Bolton's Farm Market

OTTSVILLE

Dollar General

NAPA of Ottsville

Wehrung's Home Center

REVERE

Top of the Mall Deli

Revere General Store

COOPERSBURG

The Inside Scoop Pool Pro

SPRINGTOWN

Jen's Barber Shop

Village Center Auto

and many other busy locations across the Upper Bucks area!

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