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• Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2019
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks? November 30
Celebrate ‘Small Business Saturday’ 9am10pm in Quakertown. Shop local this holiday season! Find unique gifts for your family, friends, and yourself at our local businesses! Holiday Craft Show 10am-3pm (Richlandtown Fire Co Boy Scout Troop 87) at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd, Richlandtown. Refreshmts for sale. (Vendor info: Lisa 215-536-4972) Springfield Twp Histor. Soc. Open House 9:30am-12noon at Church School, 2165 Rte 212, Pleasant Valley (GPS Coopersburg) View documents, albums, books, etc. One-room School. FMI: Tom 484-308-1510 Santa arrives at QMart (Entrance #10) 201 Station Rd, Quakertown from 11am-7pm. Photos $4 each or 3/$10. FMI: 215-536-4115. BINGO for Books 10:30am at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Play bingo, win books, have fun! All ages welcome, best for school age children & families. Fall Used Book Sale 9am-4pm at Riegelsville Public Library, 615 Easton Rd. $5 donation. Also DVDs, CDs, bargain prices. Craft/Vendor Sale 10am-2pm at Silver Creek AA, 2943 Rte 212, Springtown. FMI: 610-346-8364. Open House at The Village at Lifequest. Take a tour, pictures w/Santa, make a Holiday Craft, Wine tasting, Food, Raffles. 2100 Cherry Blossom Ln, Quakertown. (LifeQuest Campus on Rte 663)
December 1
Breakfast 8am-12:30pm at Springtown Firehouse, 3010 Rte 212, Springtown. $7.50/ adults, $4.50/ages 5-8, free/ages 0-4. Santa Paws Photo Day 11am-5pm at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. Bring pets in through Entrance #10. Pet photos/$5 ea. and printed on the spot. Pets must leave immediately after picture taking. “Sing Christmas” St. John’s UCC Contata Choir’s 50th Anniversary Concert 7:30pm (musical prelude begins 6:45pm) at Church & Main Sts, Richlandtown. Elevator available. (also on Dec 8) FMI: 215-538-0755
December 2
Michael Napolitano of “Michael & the Rockness Monsters” 3:30pm. Musical performance is fun, quirky & creative. Bring your whole family & rock out! Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, 215-257-9718.
December 3
Giving Tuesday Half-Price Sale 9am-1pm at Pennridge Community Ctr Christmas Gift/Thrift Shop, Rtes 113 & 152, Silverdale. 215-453-7027. Winterfest 6:30pm-9pm at Sellersville Fire Hall w/Santa & Mrs Claus, Tree Lighting. Kids’ activities, refreshmts, Trolley Service available. FMI: sellersvilleboro.org or 215-257-5075.
December 5
‘Unplugged Coding: Applied Coding’ (grades 1-5) at 6pm-7pm Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, 215-257-9718. Learn computer skills. Register online: calendar.buckslib.org
December 6
Quakertown Tree Lighting Festival 6pm-8:30pm in Downtown Quakertown. Santa arrives 7pm by firetruck. Strolling Victorian Carolers, Alpacas, Live Nativity, QCHS Varsity Singers, Gift Vendors. FMI: QuakertownAlive.com Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks Co Tree Lighting Ceremony 6pm-8pm at BBBSBC headquarters, 2875 York Rd, Jamison PA. Free! Questions? 215-343-8260 x100 Souderton Tree Lighting 7pm-9pm at the Plaza near 121 N Main St, Souderton. www.stmainst.org
December 6 & 7
Perkasie Model RR Club-Model Train Display, 12noon-8pm both days at (Electric Dept Bldg), 120 N 7th St, Perkasie. Free adm, donations appreciated. FMI: Doug 215-257-7075. Luminaria Stroll 5pm-7pm at Peace Valley Nature Ctr, Doylestown. (r/d Dec 13/14) $15/ car, pay on arrival beginning 4:45pm. NO dogs
allowed. Stroll our trails, enjoy hot cocoa, shop inside. FMI: peacevalleynaturecenter.org
December 6,7,8
Kringle Christmas Shoppe at Haycock Twp Ctr, 1014 Old Bethlehem Rd, Quakertown. (Fri 10am-7pm) (Sat 10am-6pm) (Sun 10am4pm). Free adm. Juried art & handwork. Live music, food, & raffle prizes. FMI: www.haycockhistoricalsociety.org.
December 7
Generations 5K Reindeer Run & Walk 8am at 259 N Second St, Souderton. Then enjoy a hot breakfast buffet in our community room. FMI/registration: generationsofiv.org Indoor Flea Mkt/Bake Sale 8am-2pm at Upper Bucks Senior Activity Ctr, Milford Twp Fire Hall, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown. Kitchen will be open. FMI: 215-536-3066. Spaghetti Dinner (all-u-can-eat/BYOB) 2pm-6pm or sold out at American Legion, 315 North St, Doylestown. $10/adults, $4/ age 6-12, free/age 0-5, $10/takeout per plate. Santa & Mrs Claus will be here. www.doylestownpost210.org Winterfest 2019, 6pm-8pm at Veterans Park, 140 Woodview Dr, Trumbauersville. Santa arrives by Fire Engine, bon fire, hotdogs $1/ea, free hot chocolate, cider, s’mores Proceeds benefit local shelters. Perkasie Holiday Tree Lighting 5pm-8pm. FMI: PerkasieBorough.org Souderton Holiday Parade 11am on Main St & Broad St, Souderton. FMI: STMainSt.org Holiday Bazaar 9am-1pm at Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 N Main St. One-stop holiday shop from local crafters/vendors. FMI and/or vendor space, nohrberg@bucks58fire.com or 267-575-0866. Run, Run Rudolph Kids Fun-Run & Christmas at the Y! (Fun Run at Strayer Middle Sch. Track) (Christmas at the Y at YMCA, 401 Fairview Ave, Quakertown) FMI: 215-536-9622 or YMCABucks.org 3rd Annual Santa Paws-Pet photos w/Santa, 1pm-4pm at Telford Veterinary, 78 Souderton Pike, Souderton. For a list of donations needed or more info, please call 215-721-6989.
December 7 & 8
‘A Polar Express Christmas’ Annual Bazaar & Craft Fair (Sat 9am-4:30pm) (Sun 9am-2pm) at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, 100 Broad St, Hilltown. Food, raffles, much more. Santa will be here, too. Ck times! FMI: olsh-hilltown.com Christmas Market Free Events at Schwenkfelder Heritage Ctr (Pennsburg), Goschenhoppen Historians (Green Lane), & Mennonite Heritage Ctr (Harleysville). All 3 open (Sat 9:30-4pm) (Sun 12noon-4pm). FMI: info@schwenkfelder.com
December 8
Breakfast w/Santa 7:30am-12noon at Upper Black Eddy Fire Co, 1716 Firehouse Ln. $8/adults, $4/ages 5-10, free/ages 0-4. Reorders/$3, To-go/$9. Santa will be there until 11:30am. FMI: 610-982-5710. “Sing Christmas” St. John’s UCC Contata Choir’s 50th Anniversary Concert 7:30pm (musical prelude begins 6:45pm) at Church & Main Sts, Richlandtown. Elevator available. (snow date 12/29) FMI: 215-538-0755 Free Pancake Breakfast w/Santa 9am-10am at “Souper Bowl” Dept 444 at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. Sign up at Office (exit 4) or call 215-536-4115. ‘Cookies w/the Claus’s – Free Event 12noon-3pm at Telford Fire Co, 400 W Broad St. Santa, Mrs Clause & elves will be available for photos. Bring camera! Enjoy some cookies, punch & a craft to take home. Animals in Distress Holiday Open House 12noon-4pm at 5075 Limeport Pike, Coopersburg. Music, crafts, gifts, food, basket raffles, ugly sweater contest at 3pm. FMI: 610-966-9383 or animalsindistresspa.org 23rd Annual World Wide Candle Lighting (non-religious program for family members who have died) at First UCC, 151 S 4th St, Quakertown. Begins 6:30pm (door opens 6pm). Sponsored by Compassionate Friends
St. John’s UCC Contata Choir’s 50th Anniversary Concert 3pm & 7:30pm at Church & Main Sts, Richlandtown. Elevator available. 4th Annual Holiday Basket Bingo 1pm-5pm (open 11:30pm) at Sellersville Fire Dept, 2 N Main St. $20/adv sfdbasketbingo@yahoo.com, 215-257-4028 x306 for tkts & info.
December 11
Free Breakfast w/Sen. Steve Santarsiero 10am-11am at Pennridge Community Ctr, Rtes 113 & 152, Silverdale. If you haven’t registered yet, please call Pennridge Community Ctr: 215-453-7027. Holiday Basket Raffle (14 different themes) 3/$5 or 7/$10. Need not be present to win. UB Senior Activity Ctr, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown. (ticket sales begin Dec 1) FMI: 215-536-3066. Kids’ Yoga 10am-11am at Peace Valley Nature Ctr in Doylestown. (free, $5 donation appreciated) Join Yalla Yoga & kids 2-6 for fun poses, breathing, songs, etc. Adults welcome to participate or observe. www.peacevalleynaturecenter.org
December 12
Unplugged Coding: Build-A-Bot 6pm7pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, 215-257-9718. Learn computer science skills-unplugged. Limited to kids in grades 1-5. Register online: calendar.buckslib.org Community Holiday Open House 6pm-8pm at Pearl S Buck Intl, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. Complimentary, seasonal entertainmt, refreshmts, Santa & Mrs Claus, tour of house. pearlsbuck.org
December 13
Art Show & Sale – Opening reception 6:40pm at UB Senior Ctr, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown. Paintings done by our members. On display 9am-3pm the following week. Details/applications: upperbucksac.org Telford Tree Lighting 7pm-8:30pm at the Telford Train Station.Entertainment, shopping & complimentary photos w/Santa. FMI: stmainst.org
December 14
Cookie Walk/Crafts 9am-2pm at Eastern Upper Bucks Senior Ctr, 8040 Easton Rd, Ottsville. Light lunch available. FMI: 610-847-8178. “Celtic” Christmas Concert w/Charlie Zahm, 7pm at Solomon’s UCC, 2990 Bedminster Rd (Rte 113), Perkasie. Free-will donation. Refreshments served. FMI: Office 215-795-2668 or solomonsucc.org Doug Church ‘The TRUE Voice of Elvis’ for the Holidays, (doors open 7pm, show 8pm) at Tylersport Fire Hall, 125 Ridge Rd. $35/ admission. Food for purchase, BYOB. FMI/ tkts: 610-287-4467. Holiday Craft Fair 9am-2pm at Pennridge Community Ctr, Rtes 113 & 152, Silverdale. Find unique & wonderful gifts. 215-4537027 or Vivian 215-453-7564, eclectictr@ comcast.net Annual Dublin Holiday Gathering starts 5:30pm at Dublin Fire Co, 194 N Main St. Gingerbread House Contest, Ugly Sweater Contest . Prizes!
December 14 & 15
Iconic Zone Holiday Toy Show Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. (Dept 201) Stop by Dept #224 for more details.
December 15
Pet Photos w/Santa Paws 1pm-3:30pm (people welcome to pose w/their pet) at Animals in Distress, 5075 Limeport Pike, Coopersburg. FMI: animalsindistresspa.org ‘A Longwood Christmas!’ Bus Trip leaves Perkasie 1:30pm, return to Perkasie 8:30pm. Must pre-register: PerkasieRec.com. Call 215-257-5065 for info, prices & availability.
December 19
Unplugged Coding: Ozobots 6pm-7pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, 215-257-9718. Learn difference between programming & coding thru working with Ozobots. Limited to grades 1-5. Register online: calendar.buckslib.org
December 21
First day of Winter Train Day w/Mr. Chuck the Train Man 10am-1pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, 215-257-9718. Amazing train display, make a train craft & more! Special train storytime at 11am. Best for young kids, all ages welcome. Cookies & “Night Before Christmas” read by Santa, 1pm (Santa Booth) at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, (exit #10), 201 Station Rd. Photos w/Santa available, too. FMI: 215-536-4115. “The Great Christmas Escape” 1:30pm2:30pm Escape Room for kids at Schwenkfelder Heritage Ctr in Pennsburg. $5/child. Find pieces of the puzzle & 4 digit code to unlock the prize. Info/register: Alyssa 215-679-3103 Solstice Tree Decorating & Storytime 1pm-3pm at Peace Valley Nature Ctr in Doylestown. Free! Make a bird treat for you to take home & one for our Solstice Tree. www.peacevalleynaturecenter.org Pet Photos w/Santa Paws 1pm-3:30pm (people welcome to pose w/their pet) at Animals in Distress, 5075 Limeport Pike, Coopersburg. FMI: animalsindistresspa.org
December 23
‘Sing, Dance, Read!’ 6:30pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, 215-257-9718. Music & movement storytime for the whole family. All ages welcome. Quakertown Farmers Mkt open 2 Extra Shopping Days - Dec 23 (9am-6pm) and Dec 24 (9am-3pm) Pick up your holiday food orders & last-minute gifts.
December 25 December 26
Christmas Day
Badge Squad: Retirement Bash 6pm7:30pm. Last chance to earn some of our favorite badges before they’re gone. Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, 215-257-9718. Best for ages 6-12, all ages welcome!
December 27
Mad Scientist Winter Holiday Special 3:30pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, 215-257-9718. See the Mad Scientist’s exciting magical experiments. Fun for all ages!
December 28
Giant Board Game Fun! 9:30am-12:30pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, 215-2579718. Connect 4, Jenga, Bananagrams, mini golf. Best for school age kids & families.
December 30
Badge Squad: Retirement Bash 12noon4pm. Last chance to earn some of our favorite badges before they’re gone. Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, 215-257-9718. Best for ages 6-12, all ages welcome!
December 31
New Year’s Eve NOON Year’s Eve Party 11:30am at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, 215257-9718. Countdown to 12 Noon with us. Music, crafts, dancing, and fun-filled for the whole family. Noisemakers & fancy dress encouraged!
January 8
Kids’ Yoga 10am-11am at Peace Valley Nature Ctr in Doylestown. (free, $5 donation appreciated) Join Yalla Yoga & kids 2-6 for fun poses, breathing, songs, etc. Adults welcome to participate or observe. peacevalleynaturecenter.org ‘Wednesday Walkabouts’ at Peace Valley Nature Ctr in Doylestown. 1:30pm, no fee or pre-registration. Join us on our trails, dress for weather, bad weather cancels walk. NO dogs! Questionable weather? 215-345-7860
January 26
American Girl Tea Time (Julie Albright 1974) 1:30pm-2:30pm at Schwenkfelder Heritage Ctr in Pennsburg. Boy & girls are welcome ($3/per child w/adult) Register: Alyssa 215-679-3103 or alyssa@schwenkfelder.com
December 2019 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
Ongoing Events
Now until sold out-Trumbauersville Fire Co Christmas Tree Sale. (Thu/Fri 4pm-8pm) (Sat/Sun 9am-8pm) Variety of trees, $6/ft. FMI: 215-538-1880 or bucks58fire.com Now to Dec 22- Santa at QMart (Exit 10) Sat & Sun. (Sat 11am-7pm) (Sun 11am-5pm). Photos $4, $10/for 3. Now to Dec 31- Free Art Show at Nature
Ctr, 170 N Chapman Rd, Doylestown. (Tue to Sun, closed Mon) Hours & info: 215-345-7860 or peacevalleynaturecenter.org Now to Dec 30 – Annual Festival of Trees at Pearl S Buck Intl, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. pearlsbuck.org/holiday events Now to Dec 8 – Pearl S Buck Holiday Craft Show,10am-4pm at 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. $4/adm. Pearlsbuck.org
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2019
“At Christmas I no more desire a rose Than wish a snow in May’s new-fangled mirth; But like of each thing that in season grows.” - William Shakespeare
Care & Share Thrift Shoppes Presents Check for $2,581 to Shop with a Cop Care & Share Thrift Shoppes presented a check for $2,581 to Hilltown Police Chief Christopher Engelhart from the proceeds of the recent First Responders Appreciation Night. In December, Hilltown Police Department will be partnering with Quakertown Police Department to shop with selected children for items to make their holiday season brighter.
The evening of the “First Responders Event” was unseasonably cold. Care & Share was ecstatic to see such strong support for First Responders which is evident in the amount of money raised. Thank you for shopping and visiting with the First Responders onsite that evening.
4 Things Not to Do When Putting Your Home on the Market So you’ve decided to put your home on the market. Congratulations! Hopefully, you’ve brought a rockin’ Realtor® on board to help you list your spot, and together you’ve done your due diligence on what to ask for. As you start checking things off your to-do list, it’s also important to pay mind of what not to do. Below are a handful of things to get you started. Don’t over-improve. As you ready your home for sale, you may realize you will get a great return on your investment if you make a couple of changes. Updating the appliances or replacing that cracked cabinet in the bathroom are all great ideas. However, it’s important not to over-improve, or make improvements that are hyper-specific to your tastes. For example, not everyone wants a pimped out finished basement equipped with a wet bar and lifted stage for their rock and roll buds to jam out on. (Okay, everyone should want that.) What if your buyers are family oriented and want a basement space for their kids to play in? That rock-and-roll room may look to them like a huge project to un-do. Make any needed fixes to your space, but don’t go above and beyond—you may lose money doing so. Don’t over-decorate. Over-decorating is just as bad as over-improving. You may love the look of lace and lavender, but your potential buyer may enter
your home and cringe. When prepping for sale, neutralize your decorating scheme so it’s more universally palatable. Don’t hang around. Your agent calls to let you know they will be bringing buyers by this afternoon. Great! You rally your whole family, Fluffy the dog included, to be waiting at the door with fresh baked cookies and big smiles. Right? Wrong. Buyers want to imagine themselves in your space, not be confronted by you in your space. Trust, it’s awkward for them to go about judging your home while you stand in the corner smiling like a maniac. Get out of the house, take the kids with you, and if you can’t leave for whatever reason, at least go sit in the backyard. (On the other hand, if you’re buying a home and not selling, then making it personal is the way to go, especially when writing your offer letter. Pull those heart strings!) Don’t take things personally. Real estate is a business, but buying and selling homes is very, very emotional. However, when selling your homes, try your very best not to take things personally. When a buyer lowballs you or says they will need to replace your prized 1970s vintage shag carpet with something “more modern,” try not to raise your hackles.. Sue Deily has been a Realtor for 34 years, resides in the Upper Bucks County area and enjoys serving her clients in Bucks, Lehigh, and Montgomery Counties. Contact her at suesellshouses@gmail.com or 215-872-9865.
Richland Library Gallery Extends Atkinson Exhibit
The Upstairs Gallery at the Richland Library Company is pleased to extend the popular exhibit of paintings by William Harrison Atkinson until December 31, 2019. Presently on exhibit are several of his works owned by the Library, plus a collection generously on loan belonging to a private collector. By extending the exhibit, the Library is hoping visitors might be able to shed more light on who William H. Atkinson was, who he taught to paint, etc. Not much is known about his life. He was born in 1895, worked as a machinist before he retired from the U. S. Gauge in Sellersville in 1969. He then became a prolific artist, exhibiting oil paintings in area art shows and teaching art classes in Quakertown, Perkasie, Doylestown, and Chalfont. Information provided by a local State Forester has confirmed that he invited some of his Perkasie students to accompany him on a field trip to his home on Sterner’s Mill Road where their painting subject was a 300 year old walnut tree. He also wrote,
illustrated, and published a booklet “History of East Rockhill Township” where he was born. He passed away in 1978 at the age of 83. Richland Library Company is located at 44 South Main Street, Quakertown, PA. This gallery and the other Upstairs Gallery is open on Saturday from 9 am to noon and also on Wednesday from 1 pm to 4 pm. There is off street parking and the Library is handicapped accessible.
December 2019 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local. Small Business Saturday is November 30
Weiss Markets Opens 199th Store in Bedminster
Weis Markets celebrated the grand opening of its 199th store in Bedminster Township in November. “We are pleased to expand our services in Bucks County and the Delaware Valley to offer our new customers a strong combination of convenience, quality and low prices that help them live better and spend less,” said Jonathan Weis, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for Weis Markets. “We appreciate the welcome we’ve received and look forward to serving and becoming active members of the Bedminster-Dublin-Perkasie community.”
To mark the opening and thank the community for its warm welcome, Weis Markets donated to Philabundance in support of local food pantries and hunger programs. It made additional charitable donations to the Pennridge Music Association, Army National Guard Headquarters and Headquarters Company of the 55th Brigade Support Battalion Family Readiness Group, Dublin Borough Police Department, Dublin Volunteer Fire Company, Pennridge Regional Police Department, and Deep Run Valley Sports Association.
(left) Jonathan Weis Chairman and CEO, addresses the crowd at its grand opening of the 199th Weis Market. (above) Officers and chiefs from Bedminster, Dublin, and Pennridge Regional Police Departments. photos by denise bentz
United Way of Bucks County Hosts Holiday Gift Card Drive for Local Teens in Need United Way of Bucks County is asking the community to help older kids and teens in need this holiday season. The organization’s annual holiday gift card drive, which runs through December 18th, provides a gift for kids who would otherwise receive nothing. “For older kids who are not expecting to receive any gifts, a gift card means so much. They are so grateful that our community cares about them. It’s a meaningful and empowering experience for older kids to get a little something for themselves rather than be left out,” explains Danielle Bush, Project Director. Last year, support from the community enabled United Way to serve 1,187 older kids and teens. This was a huge increase from the 2017 drive which served 987 kids. This year
the need is even greater. The nonprofit expects to receive over 1,200 requests from families who are struggling to provide their children something for the holidays. United Way hopes to fill all requests for gift cards they receive. The Holiday Gift Card Drive accepts gift cards of all denominations, starting at $5, now through December 18th. All donations go to local teens and older kids who are experiencing a true need this holiday season. Bush suggests that donors consider gift cards to places that teens enjoy shopping: Target, Wal-Mart, popular clothing stores, and specialty shops like Starbucks and Barnes & Noble. A list of suggestions can be found at www.uwbucks.org/giftcarddrive.
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2019
Jaclyn M. Neilson, 39, of Quakertown died October 27, 2019 in her home. After a 7 year courtship she married her husband David R. Neilson on February 3, 2018. Born in Phoenixville, PA she was the daughter of Mark C., Sr. & Lisa A. (Newman) Clark. She was a MDS Coordinator for Marquis Health Services of Brick, NJ. She loved her children and her husband and loved being a mom and wife. In addition to her husband and parents she is survived by two sons Tyler and Andrew, a brother Mark, Jr. (Nicole), a sister Kimberly Davis. Her paternal grandmother Jacqueline Clark her mother in law and father in law Thomas & Kathleen Neilson. Two sisters in law Melissa Thurman and Kristen Neilson (Scott Sulzer). In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to her children for their future needs c/o the funeral home. (www.crstrunk.com) Alice K. Lindsay, 76, Quakertown Haycock Township died Friday, November 1, 2019 in her home. Born in Philadelphia she was the daughter of the late Alice K. (Hauber) Wolfheimer and the late William Cavanaugh. Before retiring she was an office manager for the St. Luke’s University Health Network Quakertown Campus. She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Applebachsville where she served on church council, worship team and sang in the choir. She is survived by two sons, Everett T. Stowe, III (Cynthia) of Clifton Heights, PA and Bryan L. Stowe of Hollywood, CA. Four grandchildren, Kristoffer, Tom, Nicholas, and Siena. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the church memorial fund at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 837 Old Bethlehem Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown.
~Obituaries~
Virginia M. Myers, 93, of Topton formerly of Quakertown died November 1, 2019 in Lutheran Home at Topton. She was the wife of the late Clarence A. Myers. Born in Richlandtown she was the daughter of the late Myrtle (Clymer) Rotenberger. She enjoyed crocheting. Virginia is survived by a daughter Pat, a sister Marian Schmoyer (George) and a grandson William (Tara). She was predeceased by a brother Morris Rotenberger, Jr. and her son-in-law Robert S. Myers. There will be no calling hours. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown.
Ricky L. “Rick” Steigerwalt, 57, of Quakertown formerly of Lehighton died November 2, 2019 in his home. Born in Palmerton, PA he was the son of the late Kenneth & Shirley (Rex) Steigerwalt. He was a technician for Cobham Integrated Electronic Solutions in Lansdale. Rick enjoyed working out at the gym and going to the shooting range. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR, football especially the Pittsburgh Steelers. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. Rick also loved his cats Little Kitty and Paige. He was a U.S. Marine Veteran serving during Desert Storm. He is survived by a son Staff Sgt Stephen Steigerwalt in the U.S. Army (Stephanie) of Oahu, Hawaii two daughters Tara Steigerwalt (Jason McElhinney) of Lusby, MD, Stephanie McElhinney (Shaun) of Aurora, CO. A brother Ronnie Steigerwalt. Two grandchildren Brantley & Malak. Predeceased by a brother Randy and a sister Sandra. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Quakertown
American Legion Post#242, 610 E. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. (www.crstrunk.com)
Lillian Claire Ciccarone, 22, of Quakertown formerly of Brooklyn, NY died November 2, 2019 after losing her battle with heroin addiction, which also destroys families and other lives left behind. Born in Manhattan, NY she was the daughter of Frank J. & Claire J. (Szakacs) Ciccarone. She enjoyed hiking, nature, and animals. In addition to her parents she is survived by a sister Daniella (Ryan Fehrenbach), a brother Michael (Carolyn Bibighaus), and her twin brother Phillip. There will be no services. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Hope Against Heroin 2109 Clover Mill Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951 or online at hopeagainstheroin.us Patricia Ann Carroll, 83, of Quakertown formerly of Maple Glen and Sea Isle City died November 4, 2019 in her home. She was the wife of the late William J. Carroll. Born in Pittsburgh, PA she was the daughter of the late John & Mary (Nolan) Parker. She owned and operated the former Book Nook in Sea Isle City. Patricia enjoyed bowling and her bridge clubs. She was a member of St. Isidore’s Catholic Church, Quakertown. She is survived by four sons William D. (Patricia), John J. (LouAnn), James P. (Chris), and Patrick T. (Jeanne Marie), a sister Joanne Rodgers (Michael), a sister in law Carole Carroll. In addition she is survived by her grandchildren Lauren, Sarah, Nikki, Kelsey, Daniel, & Coleen. As well as, many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105. (www.crstrunk.com) Imogene J. Croman, 89, of Quakertown died November 9, 2019 in St. Luke’s Hospital, Quakertown Campus. She was the wife of the late Robert Croman. Born in Richlandtown she was the daughter of the late Raymond C. & Margaretta (Morgan) Reichenbach. She was a social member with the Haycock Fire Company where she was the former president of the Ladies Auxiliary and the former treasurer. Imogene was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Applebachsville. She is survived by a daughter Lin Gitlin (Lou), three sons Terry (Pam), Allen, & Larry. A step daughter Dorothy Rothrock (William). 12 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by a son Donald, 4 brothers John, Raymond, Robert, & Donald and two sisters Mary Lanute and Dorothy Faust. She was also predeceased by her companion Howard Diehl. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the church at the above address or to Haycock Fire Company 850 Old Bethlehem Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951. (www.crstrunk.com) Jane M. Loch, 63, of Quakertown died November 12, 2019 in her home. She was the wife of Arthur L. Loch, Jr. They were married 29 years last January. Born in Quakertown she was the daughter of the late Lee L. Spangler Jr. & Dorothy (Moyer) Stahler Spangler. She was last employed by the Quakertown Community School district as a secretary to the superintendent. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution where she was the former secretary. Jane enjoyed swimming, horseback riding and the love of her family especially her grandchildren. She was a member of the former St. John’s Lutheran Church in Quakertown where she was a former Sunday School Teacher.
In addition to her husband she is survived by her children Nicholas L. Spangler-Loch (Rebekka), Renee A. Kinchen (Alfred), and Zachary P. Loch, two brothers Robert E. Spangler (Frances M.) and Thomas L. Spangler (Lynn E. Lomas). Nine grandchildren Justina, Elise, Nadiyah, Matthew, Isaak, Samuel, Cyrus, Madison, and Aiden. Two nieces Angela Spangler and Melvina Spangler, and a great nephew Immanuel. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Casting for Recovery Breast Cancer 109 E. Oak St. Suite 1G Bozeman, MT 59715 or to CHOP 3401 Civic Center Blvd. Philadelphia, PA 19104. (www.crstrunk.com) Martha Wilson, 72, of Quakertown died November 13, 2019 in her home. She was the wife of Joseph R. Wilson for 50 years. Born in Philadelphia she was the daughter of the late James & Elmira (Massey) Ellis. She was a social worker for EQPP and The Women’s Place before retiring. Martha loved all animals. She was a member of the former St. John’s Lutheran Church in Quakertown. In addition to her husband she is survived by a son Joseph J., three brothers James, Bill (Donna), and Pete (Debbie). One grandchild Kiara Wilson. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to any Wildlife Refuge of your choice. Mary Chobot, 87, of Quakertown died November 14, 2019 in LifeQuest Nursing Center. She was the wife of the late George Chobot. Born in Pennsburg, PA she was the daughter of the late Stefe & Mary (Micklocik) Sinisko. She was employed at PSG before retirement. She was an active member and enjoyed the activities at the YMCA. She also enjoyed reading, playing cards with her friends and travel. Mary was a member of St. Isidore’s Catholic Church in Quakertown. She is survived by her three children Maryann Miller, Ruth Beans-Chobot, and G. Frank Chobot. Two brothers John & Steve (Elizabeth), her grandchildren Brian, Laura, Kat, Michael, & Jeremy, great grandchildren Arjun & Sawyer. Predeceased by a grandson Tyler and a brother Michael. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to American Diabetes Foundation 150 Monument Rd. Suite 100, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004. (www.crstrunk. com) Clyde R. Harwick, 87, of Zion Hill died November 16, 2019 in Phoebe Richland Heath Care Center, Richlandtown. He was the husband of Audrey E. (Schroy) Harwick. They were married 65 years in October. Born in he was the son of the late Herbert A. & Mabel A. (Roth) Harwick. He was a supervisor for Alvin H. Butz, Inc. before retiring. Clyde was a member of the Holiday Rambler Club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, four wheeling, camping and traveling anywhere in the country. He was a former charter member of both the Trailblazers and Four Wheel Drive Club. Clyde was a U.S. Navy Veteran serving during the Korean War where he was a SeaBee. In addition to his wife he is survived by a son Kevin D. (Cynthia) of Coopersburg, a daughter Brenda Keller (Brian) of Middletown, DE, a brother Harold H. (Linda) of Mansfield, PA, a sister-in-law Mildred Harwick of Breiningsville, PA. Five grandchildren Alia Grois (Matt), Douglas Harwick (Elissa), Kyle Keller (Lauren), Stephen Harwick (Alexandria) and Brittany Morrell (Matt). Three great grandchildren Elijah Grois, Lilliana Grois, and Josephinia Harwick.
December 2019 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
Predeceased by a brother David F. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Dementia Society of America P.O. Box 600 Doylestown, PA 18901 or to Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church P.O. Box 81 Zion Hill, PA 18981. Grace A. Freier, 95, of Quakertown died November 19, 2019 in her home. She was the wife of the late Otto A. Freier. Born in Milford Township, she was the daughter of the late Claude & Marion (Kline) Bealer. She worked for the former Amico in Trumbauersville before retiring. Prior to that she was a hairdresser. Grace was a member of the Upper Bucks Sr. Center. She had an outgoing and loving personality who was loved by all her friends, family and neighbors. She strongly loved her family, loved her grand dogs, and enjoyed going to yard sales. She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Spinnerstown. Grace is survived by a daughter Claudette, a sister Loretta Thorsen, and numerous nieces and nephews. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church Stained Glass Window Fund P.O. Box 120 Spinnerstown, PA 18968.
~Obituaries~
Dorothy M. (Moyer) Williams, age 99, died Wed. Nov. 20, 2019, at Grand Blanc, MI. Born July 10, 1920, she was the daughter of the late H. Clayton and Bessie (Lindaman) Moyer, and the widow of the late Jay D. Williams, who passed in 2008. A graduate of the former Abington School of Nursing, Dorothy was a longtime registered nurse at various hospitals and nursing homes local to the Quakertown area. Prior to that, she served as the school nurse at the George School in Newtown. She was a 25-year volunteer at the Penn Foundation in Sellersville, as well as in various other charities in the region. At age 60, she taught herself to play the piano, and did so at Quakertown United Methodist Church, where she was an active member. Dorothy is survived by: son David Williams; daughters Teresa Mooney, Dottie Lou Williams, and Mary Sue Williams; brother Reverend H. Clayton Moyer; as well as 11 beloved grandchildren and 18 adored great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, Dorothy is preceded in death by a sister, Mary Jean. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Thurs., Dec. 5, at Quakertown United Methodist Church, 1875 Freier Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951. There will be a calling hour from 1:00 PM until the time of service. Interment will be private and at the discretion of the family. Memorial contributions may be made in Dorothy’s honor to the Jerusalem House Ministries, 202 N Ninth Street, Allentown, PA 18102 and/or to the Quakertown United Methodist Church at the address above. To sign the online guestbook, visit www.NaugleFCS.com.
Emma M. Skriletz, 73 of Coopersburg formerly of Center Valley died November 23, 2019 in the home of her daughter, Margie Bachman. She was the wife of the late William F. Skriletz, Jr. Born in Quakertown she was the daughter of the late Erwin and Katie (Vermuelen) McCarthy. Before her retirement she was a floral designer for Weiss Markets. Prior to that she was employed by the former Zohlman Nursing Home in Richlandtown. Emma enjoyed camping doing crafts especially crocheting, doll making and drawing. She also enjoyed cake decorating and making wedding flowers for all her family. She is survived by her children William F. III, (Bonnie), Michael L. (Joanne), Margie A. Bachman (John), Laurie L. Deschler, Joseph P., and Barry E., Sr. Fifteen grandchildren and twenty four great grandchildren. Two sisters Elizabeth Reichenbach (Willard) and Kathryn Thomas (Richard). She was predeceased by sister’s Potara Traube, Susanna Schaufler, Minnie Seaser and a brother Erwin H. In addition to flowers contributions can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis TN 38105-1942 or the American Kidney Foundation, 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300 Rockville MD 20852. (www.crstrunk.com) Helen C. Korbal, 74, of Pocono Lake, Pa died November 25, 2019 in Lehigh Vally Hospital Pocono. She was the wife of Edward L. Korbal. They were married 53 years on November 19, 2019. Born in Philadelphia, PA she was the daughter of the late Leroy & Helen (Markey) DeBaecke. She enjoyed gardening, bird watching, reading, playing words with her friends and cooking for her family.
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She was a member of St. Maximillian Kolbe Parish in Pocono Lake, Pa. Helen’s real joy in life was her family especially her grandchildren who every year would attend Camp MeMom at her residence in Pocono Lake. The highlight of camp was riding in her golf cart, and attaining the age of 14 when they could become a driver of the golf cart. In addition to her husband she is survived by a daughter Lisa M. Pisorchik (Chad), three sons Edward K. (Adrienne Ustunkaya), Kevin (Melissa), and Brian K. (Annie). Two sisters Marie Grady (Jack) & Cathy Troisi (Bill). A half brother Joseph Knox (Eileen), brother in law Butch Diefes, and a sister in law Carol Mastrogiovanni (John). Twelve grandchildren Andrew, Nick, Anastasia, Isabella, Christian, Justin, Dylan, Jayson, Tyler, Gabrielle, Samantha, & MaKayla. She was predeceased by a brother Peter, and a sister Anne Diefes. A Mass will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2019 at 1:00 P.M. at St. Isidore’s Catholic Church 2545 W. Pumping Station Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951. Call 11:30 A.M.-1:00 P.M. in the church. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Isidore’s Catholic Church 603 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2019
American Legion Post 242 December Update BY DICK HELM
I Can’t Afford to Get a Divorce Because My Spouse is the Breadwinner. What Can I Do? BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ. Relationships where one spouse is the breadwinner and makes significantly more money than the other spouse are quite common. And when these relationships sour, the thought of getting a divorce can seem quite daunting or even impossible to the spouse with few financial resources. “How can I afford an attorney to represent me throughout the divorce or pay for all the court filing fees and expenses?” If you are in this type of situation, there is hope! In these types of situations, it is possible for a court to award counsel fees and expenses in order to “promote the fair and impartial administration of justice by enabling the dependent spouse to maintain or defend the … divorce without being placed at a financial disadvantage”. Basically, the law want to make sure that both parties’ rights are protected in a divorce proceeding and that one party cannot financially strongarm the dependent spouse. However, an award of counsel fees is far from automatic. They are awarded on a case by case basis, after the court has reviewed a number of factors which include: the size of the estate (financial resources) of the dependent spouse requesting counsel fees; the ability of the non-requesting spouse to pay said fees; the value of the services rendered; and the assets to be divided as a result of the divorce. Another factor that must be established is actual need.
“Need” may be inferred where there exists a gross disparity of income between the parties. The court may also consider awarding alimony pendente lite (“alimony pending litigation”) to be paid to the dependent spouse during the course of the divorce proceedings, because one of the purposes of alimony pendente lite is to provide a dependent spouse the funds necessary to properly litigate the divorce. This award may also involve divorce “expenses and costs”, which can include experts, appraisers, accountants, deposition costs, court reporter fees, etc. Along with permitting the payment of counsel fees pending the litigation, the Divorce Code also permits the payment of counsel fees and expenses at the onset of the divorce to cover the cost of legal work to be performed in the future. If you find yourself trapped in a soured marriage because you can’t afford to pull yourself out, find time to sit down with an experienced family law attorney. The law may permit your spouse to pay for your divorce. Robert E. Fravel, Esq. is a Bucks County attorney located at 123 N. Main Street, Suite 208, in Dublin, Pennsylvania. He specializes in estate planning & administration, family law, business law and real estate law. To set up a consultation, call his office at (267) 2279138. To learn more, visit his website at www.fravel-law.com
Yuddekasha Boi
For those readers that are not of Pa. Dutch heritage, the above title may leave you in a tizzy. What in the world does this title have to do with remembering the past here in Upper Bucks? The literal translation of the phrase Yuddekasha Boi is Jewish Cherry Pie. Once again many will still be puzzled as to what is that? When we were kids we also knew this delicious dessert as Chew Cherry Pie. I believe that the long ago term of Jewish Cherry became Chew Cherry, as Jewish Cherry did not make any sense to late 19th and early 20th century Pa. Dutch families. I did much research on this and I could not find why they first called it Jewish Cherry Pie. Chew Cherries are what is also known to many as “Ground Cherries” or “Husk Tomatoes.” This Ground Cherry grows on small bushes and is encased in a thin webbed envelope that grows abundantly on this weed like bush. I have seen NON-EDIBLE versions that are in garden bouquets as bright orange looking lanterns hanging from a bush. My mother always had her “Ground Cherry Bushes growing near the compost where we left our left over vegetable peelings, hulls, and table scraps. The Ground Cherry that is contained in this hanging light brown patch is yellow and not very tasty in its raw state. The pie contains much sugar in a mixed floury batter with a syrupy base. That along with the yellow ground cherries was appealing also to the eye. This is one of my favorite Pa. Dutch desserts! We had these pies that were made by Trauger’s Farm Market from along the Delaware River outside of Reigelsville. Myron Cressman, who has since passed, always made sure that I had a few pieces to take home with me if any were left over. He also would give me his homemade Horseradish that was out of this world. Myron was a dear friend and a true Dutchman! So now you know what Yuddekasha Boi is. And I wish you luck if you try to eat it with a knife as many of folks my age experienced seeing being eaten by our grandparents. Many of the folk festivals and Pa. Dutch restaurants offer Funny cake and Shoofly pies. Funny cake is a wet bottom pie with a white type upper cake layer and chocolate or other type-wet bottom. We like the chocolate wet bottom that is about ¼” thick. Shoofly has many wonderful ingredients that make this a very sweet tasting cake type filling. This is
what is huckstered as “Pa. Dutch Desserts” and I highly recommend you taste them. I remember one incidence about 20 years ago, when I was much younger (about 55), when one of our hunting partners who was near 80 and a true Dutchman took about 4 shoofly’s that were made by his church along on the hunting trip. He gave 2 of them to the rancher’s wife to serve with our meals. We did not see them at breakfast and when we had our main meal in the evening she brought the shooflies on a plate with Vanilla Ice Cream. Marvin stood up and reprimanded her that this is a breakfast cake not a cake to be served with Ice Cream. To someone who is not exposed to our culture –she did not know and this was the first time she ever seen Shoofly PIE! I felt sorry for her. Another favorite is the various APPLE pies. My personal favorite is not the covered or dough stripped pies. I like the Apple Tart. This simply has the Apples cut and placed in the dough crust with the same type sugary base that the Apples are in at completion as the Chew Cherry Pie has. The apples have a nice brown upper texture and when warmed a bit and Vanilla Ice Cream is put on. Oh what a wonderful Thanksgiving Dinner completion. Other Pa. Dutch favorites are Raisin or Funeral Pie and Hot Mincemeat pie. Raisin pie was often served after a funeral in the 19th century as the housewife could have raisins on hand much easier that dried apples or other fruit, so when someone died they could quick bake these pies for the funeral. Local butchers around the Christmas holidays made mincemeat and this pie is best made with a top cover so it can be served warm. The holidays always bring back memories of these delightful desserts and the side table with many of them on that table at Grammy Bleam’s Christmas Goose Dinner. Today because of dietary restrictions we try to refrain from these very sugary treats of yesteryear. I do indulge in at least two of these during Thanksgiving and Christmas if they are served. (They usually appear.) This article came about because today I brought home a funny cake for us from a local grocery store and I remembered all these special delights of yesteryear. Each year I look forward to the Grundsow dinner and trying to eat my Yuddekashe Boi with my knife. Myron is enjoying seeing me enjoy this special treat. Sell is Offa Goot. (This is very good.) You must try it sometime! Dick Helm is a regular contributor. He can be reached at rbh9@verizon.net
Thanks! As I looked over the crowd that was assembled in the Auditorium of Strayer Middle School on Veterans Day, I not only observed the sixth grade students from the participating schools in the combined Quakertown, Pennridge, and Palisades School Districts, and various other schools of the area; I saw Veterans and their families. You answered the call to come out and show the students the support that we have for one another and the support of our families and friends and “neighbors” who came to say, “Thanks.” The service was memorable, as it always is. The solemn moments such as the Playing of “Taps,” the wonderful singing by the vocalist and the crowd of Patriotic Songs, and the inspiring messages from the various school officials, former Veteran’s who served, present Armed Service personnel, and Political Officials. I name no one in particular as I am sure they feel as I do, just being there and participating was our duty to honor the few who served. (About 8% of the total population of the United States.) The World War II veterans who served were especially recognized. All other veterans and their branches of service were recognized and the Veteran’s stood proudly to be honored. Many such as I had mostly white or grey hair. When we served our hair was richly colored and very short. Our waste sizes were 30” and under, and we were “fit as a fiddle.” Today the hair is grey, but the spirit that was within our hearts is still there and the spirit shown by the students on this special day will always keep it there. Speaking of the spirit of the students, WOW!! The musical presentations (Vocal and Instrumental) by the sixth graders from our area and when I looked back at the other students in the auditorium I saw patriotic spirit in the flags waving as the guest students participated enthusiastically. As the students exited they approached the Veterans and offered their Thank you’s. A few of the students added something to their thank you’s as was requested by a Vietnam Veteran speaker who stated that we did not receive a welcome home in that period of late 60’s and early 70’s. They
also said, “Welcome Home!” Tears blurred my vision as I too said “Thank You. As I drove through Quakertown on a recent bright sunny day, I caught the flashing of the blank “Dog Tags” hanging from the trees in the Triangle in the center of downtown businesses. This year’s “Witting Tree” services for 5 successive nights sponsored by our Legion Post 242 and John Rivers Memorial VFW Post 11322 where 100 sets of Blank Dog Tags were hung in silence after a few solemn words were prayed or spoken. Our Chaplain David Ellis initiated this program as part of another organization he participates in. These 5 days of hanging 20 dog tags represents the DAILY lives lost by veterans stemming back to World War II by suicide. Many of our family, friends, or neighbors might still be suffering from the trauma of service during conflicts and are reaching out for our help. When no help is received, these lives are lost with the numbers ranging, as I said before between 18-20 per DAY! My wife and I helped hang 20 dog tags at our Post on E. Broad Street and 20 at the triangle on 2 nights. John Rivers Post also hung 20 in their area near Trinity Lutheran Church. No public gathering took place and the few persons from the two organizations stood one night in light rain and the next night in a chilling cold to hear a few inspirational words as to what “The Witting Tree’ is about and heard an inspirational prayer by Chaplain Ellis. Quietly the Dog Tags were hung and we departed. Hope is that someone will question the dog tags’ appearance and contact Chaplain Ellis (215-541-4458) for referral information to save one or more of those lives. This solemn service in our community is one that I will never forget. Another article plus photos for this worthwhile cause will appear in this paper. In closing on this longer than usual article, I wish all a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. As you celebrate these holidays, remember there is a soldier, sailor, or guardian of the skies above on post making it safe for you to do so. Please thank them when possible or just nod your head and smile to them. Pray for those suffering from stress of combat, and as outlined above take time out to seek help for those who are to proud to do so themselves!
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local. What to Teach Your Puppy First Socialization Puppy socialization is the process of gradually introducing your puppy to a variety of people, places and experiences early in life. Socialization is so critical because it can prevent a dog from developing behavioral problems later in life such as extreme fear or aggression. Even if your puppy does not seem to have an issue with storms, resource guarding, or separation anxiety, problems can develop anytime in a dog’s life. In order to help buffer any future phobias, now is the time to develop the ‘no worries’ attitude with common fears. To do this, pair potential fears (like storms or strangers) with something your puppy finds valuable such as food or games. Getting your puppy used to being handled and groomed. As early as possible, you should start getting the puppy comfortable with being handled and groomed. You should get your puppy used to grooming, wiping his feet, brushing his teeth, reaching for him quickly and trimming his nails. In these daily exercises, you will be teaching your puppy to trust you and to view these procedures as enjoyable and not stressful. Self-control It’s critical for puppies to learn self-control. Many of the behaviors our dogs do that we find annoying or unacceptable result from a lack
of self-control. These behaviors include: pulling on the leash, jumping on people, chasing squirrels, stealing food, and counter-surfing. Teaching a dog self-control begins by teaching the puppy to wait at doorways, loose-leash walking, and manners around the food bowl. How to stay calm in a crate Teaching a dog to remain calm in a crate is important for housebreaking. Crate training is very helpful when you need your dog contained at the vet or can’t have your dog underfoot. It’s really easy to keep up being calm in a crate if you do a little bit of it each day Teaching their name Teaching your puppy his name is so important. Say your puppy’s name, and when he looks at you, say ‘Good!’ and give him a tiny piece of food. Repeat many, many times, until your puppy quickly looks at you. If your puppy doesn’t look at you, just make a kissing sound to prompt him and then reward. Don’t repeat your puppy’s name over and over if he isn’t responding. That just makes him learn that his name doesn’t mean anything, the opposite of what we want. Take a Puppy Class Enrolling in a puppy class is the fastest and easiest way to get your puppy trained! Submitted by Marion C. O’Neil CPDTKA, CTDI owner and Trainer of Molasses Creek Dog Training, LLC Quakertown www.molassescreekdogtraining.com
December 2019 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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Merck Sharp & Dohme Credit Union Breaks Ground in Quakertown
Merck Sharp & Dohme Federal Credit Union (MSDFCU) is branching out to Quakertown, PA. The Credit Union recently broke ground on a new 3,000 square foot branch to better serve Merck members, families, and the business community as well as its employees. The event was attended by Merck Board Members and senior leadership. The new tech-oriented branch will offer a complete line of financial services, including a drivethrough, internet café, and ATM. Dave Whitehead, the CEO, stated, “We are excited to open this new full-service branch and be a financial resource for the residents and businesses of the Quakertown area.”
The branch is scheduled to be completed in the spring of 2020 with a grand opening celebration to follow shortly after. MSDFCU is a full-service financial institution established in 1950. MSDFCU is not-for-profit Credit Union, meaning earnings are returned to members in the form of better rates on savings and loans, as well as a wide array of products and services. MSDFCU has over $600 million in assets and serves over 29,000 members. Individuals or businesses interested in accounts at the credit union should contact Michael Grover at 215-996-3744 for more information or visit www.msdfcu.org.
A Bell for Mr. Jeepers My pet cat, Mr. Jeepers, is a neutered, outdoor cat. We have a ‘cat door’ in a window and he comes and goes as he pleases. Many people think that’s negligent; that, first, it’s dangerous for the cat, but, more seriously, it’s bad for the ecosystem. I guess I can’t argue. I read that 40% of annual “un-natural” bird deaths are due to feral cats (planes or windmills are next). Of course, Jeepers isn’t feral and I do keep him indoors when we’re in California where coyotes howl and poop in my yard every night. Here in PA, I might realize that opponents to free-range cats have a valid complaint, but I don’t limit my cats’ freedom much. I sometimes suffer the consequences, though. Jeep’s not my first outdoor cat and the pressure they’ve put on the local small animal population is undeniable. Over the years, through that ‘cat door’ has come a variety of species in some cat’s mouth: rabbits, squirrels, a flying squirrel, shrews, moles, mice and birds of many sorts. Unfortunately, the window is right above the computer desk. My wife was sitting there both times when the cat ‘bounced in’ dangling a huge night crawler, and when another brought in a slithering garter snake. She screamed both times and the cat dropped its trophy. I gave it serious effort but never found the snake. It got into the baseboard radiators. Jeepers proudly brings his kills inside and leaves the carcass on the throw rug in the bathroom—where his dad will see it first thing in the morning. That is, if the dog doesn’t see it first. When Jeep brought in a baby rabbit—a protected game species--last spring, I was pretty upset. There aren’t enough rabbits already, at least where I hunt. So, I put bells on his collar. We noticed an immediate and dramatic decrease in his hunting success rate. As a hunter, I appreciate wildlife and the need for a balanced ecosystem. Peripheral Human activity, like not neutering pets and letting cats run loose, must be considered as well as our other environmentally unsound behavior. Since I spend a lot of time in rural areas, I
often witness that interaction and occasionally suffer because of it. I’ve lost cats. A couple of them were killed by cars, but a couple just never came home. It’s troubling. A pet’s a pet and we love them. I’ve had another experience recently that gave me a different perspective on how Mr. Jeepers lives. Peyton, my gun dog, and I were hunting along the Tohickon Creek near Quakertown. I was walking in a pasture along a wooded hedgerow. Peyton was working his way through the brush adjacent to me. Suddenly, I saw a gray animal jump out of tree crotch about 10 feet and land, out of site, behind the tree. I only caught a glimpse and thought it was a squirrel. Peyton was onto it in a flash, snarling and biting I struggled through a gap in the fence to get to the scene. I couldn’t tell what Peyton was fighting—killing actually. I feared it was a raccoon out in the daytime, which could mean rabies. I remembered Peyton was up to date on his shots. The animal was too big to be a squirrel and the wrong color for a possum. Then, I saw. It was a cat. By the time I’d leashed Peyton, the cat was unconscious and mortally injured. I quickly took the dog away. I was angry, sad and frustrated. I’d trained Peyton to do that—to find animals and help me harvest them. He’s then to retrieve to hand anything we ‘put down.’ It’s almost impossible to stop him from doing his job. I felt bad for a while, but came to an understanding, or perhaps some will say made an excuse. The cat had no collar, no name tag. It was in the ‘wild’, in a tree with squirrel nests. It was hunting and killing animals because it is its nature and because some human was irresponsible and did not give it a home. It was an unnatural predator. Peyton and I are licensed hunters and stay within the limits of strict game laws. Though the incident will remain tragic, and there is no hunter who does not have tragic stories to tell. Jack Schick is a long time Quakertown area resident and regular contributor here at
UBFP. Reach him at sjckschc@aol.com
Have something to share with your community? Send us the details! info@ubfp.org • fax: 215-839-3421 582 S. West End Blvd • Quakertown, PA 18951 QNB Releases 2020 Student Art Calendar
Another New Year is just around the corner and with that comes the annual QNB Student Art Collector Calendar. Like years past, an art contest was held, open to high school students from surrounding districts. This year’s contest received a total of 75 entries from 7 different schools. The 2020 “Still Life” Calendar is available now at all QNB Bank locations. Stop in and pick one up for free while supplies last!
Better to Give than to Get
December is a Giving month. It is more rewarding to give then to “get”. I have found that we all have one thing in common that we can all give. Dog or human, it doesn’t matter. We all have this to give. No matter what your health status or financial ability is, we all can give of our TIME. I am a therapy dog and visit people who need a hug. There are many things humans can do. There are many ways to volunteer and make a difference. Churches need help if you are a church going person. Hospitals use volunteers as do many animal rescue places and shelters. St Luke’s is opening their new campus this month and it is really nice. The rooms are large enough for my carriage to get in all the rooms. They could use more volunteers AND they treat them very nice too. I know cause I am one. Speaking of volunteers, there was a lady named Faye Wagner who donated her time picking up food at the stores and taking it to the food bank in Quakertown. She has recently passed and is
deeply missed by her friends at the food bank. The food pantry could use some helpers too. I have my human doing food pickups twice a week. I find it very rewarding that I can motivate her to being involved in our communi-
ty. I hope some of you will get involved with donating time to a worthwhile cause. It’s a great way to meet new people. This is picture of my crew at the VA Home with Papaw. Merry Christmas to all! Love , MJ
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2019
Employment Opportunities
Kulp Roofing & Construction - We are currently in need of experienced individuals for our roof repair team, gutter team, and window team. Individuals must be motivated, punctual, detail-oriented, professional and loyal. Contact us to schedule an interview. We are looking for long-term, year-round help. Roofing is not a requirement for any of these positions except “Roof Repair Technician”. Applications accepted at our office at 216 D, Apple St., Quakertown, PA, Call 215-538-0618 Spor’s General Store - Hiring PT Kitchen, dishwasher, cleaning, waitstaff, ice cream, waiting tables, etc. 15 years or older Respond to bspor@sporsgeneralstore.com or stop in the store at 22 W. Broad Street,Trumbauersville Classic Hair Designs Established salon seeking experienced stylists, nail technician, and massage therapist. Are you a motivated & creative? We’d like to meet you! We use top quality products and offer education, paid vacation, flexibility and a relaxing atmosphere to work. Send your resume to classichairdesigns1@gmail.com.
‘Properties of Merit’ Honors Home, Property Owners in Quakertown Quakertown Alive! honored local property owners are the bi-annual Properties of Merit award reception on November 21 at The Gathering Place in downtown Quakertown. Properties of Merit was created for property owners to show pride in their houses and downtown businesses. Originally financed at the state level, Quakertown is one of the few locations in Pennsylvania that carry on with this program thanks to the efforts of Quakertown Alive!. Quakertown Alive!’s Properties of Merit committee has worked tirelessly to be sustainable. Where other cities and towns have had to do away with similar programs, Quakertown’s Properties of Merit program has thrived. The committee is dedicated and passionate about the revitalization of downtown Quakertown. As a part of the program, the community was invited to vote for the Community Choice Winner. This year’s winner is 215 Juniper
Street, owned by Scott and Barbara Shelly. Other nominees included: 200 S. 11th Street, 20 9th Street, 421 Juniper Street and 423 Juniper Street. Committee Awards included: Committee Choice Award, Alice Yates and David Yates, Jr. for Always Beautiful Floral Design Studio at 332 W. Broad Street; Community Greening Award, Chris LaBonge and Ian Jeffrey for The Yard at Trolley Barn Public Market, 106 E. Broad Street; Founders Award, Jim Lukens for The Main Street Gallery at 1236 W. Broad Street; Preservation Award, David and Jamie Yates Jr. for the Quakertown Trust Company Building at 3rd & Broad Streets; and Bernie Reich, Dennis Smith, Kim Studenroth, and Mimi Heitz of Campania International for replacing Quakertown’s centerpiece fountain after it was destroyed this past summer by vandalism.
Nominees for this year’s private residences (L-R): Susan & Curt Churchman, Barbara & Scott Shelly, Becky Adams, Sherri & Tom Carey. Not available for photo: Austin & Andrea Grote, Jim Adams. photo by michele buono
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2019
115 turkey dinners with all of the fixings were donated to local families in need through the generosity of Virginia Reiss Insurance, Old Castle Lawn and Garden, and Classic Staffing. This annual effort is orchestrated by members of Quakertown Cares. Pictured: Virginia Reiss, Michele Kalapos and Chela Rivera of Classic Staffing, Lisa Green and Kimberly Wilson from QC. photo by christopher betz
Pennridge High School Student Council recently presented Grand View Health Foundation with a check for $5,000 for its Breast Cancer Support Fund. The money was raised during the school’s annual Pink Out football game by selling t-shirts and wristbands. Pennridge students have donated $36,117 over nine years to support program, which provides financial support for patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer. photo by joe ferry
Veterans from across our region, along with students from Pennridge, Palisades and Quakertown School Districts and other area schools, participated in the 31st Annual Upper Bucks Veterans Organization Veterans Day program on November 11 held at Strayer Middle School in Quakertown. Pictured: (top left) Vietnam veteran Craig Wilhelm gave the keynote address to a packed auditorium. (top right) Members of the Quakertown Sixth Grade Center choir perform as did the band. (bottom) Patriotism was alive and well among all those in attendance. photos by christopher betz
Quakertown businesswoman Elsa O’Brien hosted a fundraising event at her new venture, The Gathering Place, to benefit the Quakertown Food Pantry. Attendees were asked to bring gift cards to local groceries as the price of admission. Elsa and friends collected over $1400 for the food pantry. Pictured: Elsa O’Brien, Carol Kidd, Quakertown Food Pantry president, Sally Lindenmuth, QFP Food Drive Coordinator. photo by michele buono
Students of Miss Ci at their studio on W the characters they Time of the Year”w
Best Wishes for a very Merry Christmas New Year to all of our friends, conte advertisers, sponsors, and readers fr at the Upper Bucks Free P
Trumbauersville Elementary’s ”Cans of Compassion” food drive was a huge success! Thank you to all the famili donated non-perishable food items to be given to our local food banks. submitted photos
December 2019 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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The Quakertown powder puff champs played the Pennridge powder puff champs on November 26. Quakertown’s Legion of Broom won the match. photo by kris wilson
The Annual Festival of Trees at Pearl S. Buck’s iconic Bucks County stone farmhouse come alive with the glow of holiday decorations. The event showcases beautiful trees and vignettes designed by Bucks County artists, decorators, and community groups in the spirit of Pearl S. Buck’s legacy as an author, humanitarian, and activist. Visitors have the opportunity to vote for their favorite display. The display runs through the end of the year. Visit pearlsbuck.org for info! submitted photo
indy’s School of Dance pose as store window mannequins West Broad Street in Downtown Quakertown. They portray y play in their annual production, “The Most Wonderful which takes place December 7 at Palisades High School. photo by michele buono
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Members of the John Rivers VFW Post 11322 and American Legion 242, both in Quakertown, participated in Witting Tree ceremonies November 7 through November 11 (Veterans Day). The organizations hung 20 nameless dog tags each day on trees in town to signify the average number of veterans who take their own lives per day. ‘Witting’ means to bear witness to or to make aware the facts of a situation. Know someone at risk? Say something. photos by christopher betz
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2019
A Christmas to Remember
As she arose on that cold and blustery morning, she went straight to the kitchen to start a fire in the woodburning stove that would warm the entire home. Several chores needed to be completed that day, and she was getting an early start. It was a long-time custom to select a special cedar tree from her six-acre property that would grace the living room of her home for the Christmas Season. This was the day that the tree was chosen, Christmas Eve day. After the fire was roaring and heating the home, she awoke her young daughter for breakfast. Her daughter was excited because she got to go along and help to choose the perfect tree. After a hearty, country breakfast, they bundled up in warm winter coats and hats, scarves, gloves, and boots and began their journey into the woods. On the way they sang, “Over the River and Through the Woods ~ To grandmother’s house we go; ~ The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh, ~ Through the white and drifted snow, oh!” When her daughter was younger, she imagined she was going to visit Little Red Riding Hood’s grandmother. She even carried her own little walking stick just in case she encountered the wolf. The mother looked at trees as they walked, sang, and talked. Finally, they spotted the perfect tree. With much care, she chopped down the tree and together they dragged it back to the house singing “Jingle Bells” all the way to the woodpile in the back of the house. There she trimmed the stump to fit into the galvanized bucket of rocks that would house the tree until she took it down in late January. After they were back inside and warmed up with a cup of hot cocoa, it was time to start prepping for Christmas dinner. The mother always prepared a feast, so there was much to be done. The turkey never had to be thawed
because it was always fresh the day before, but there were many other dishes to be made. The chestnuts had to be roasted for the stuffing as well as making the cornbread; the collard and mustard greens had to be thoroughly cleaned; the sweet potatoes and white potatoes needed to be peeled; and so much more. But when evening came it was time to bring that perfect Christmas tree into the living room and start decorating it. This was the daughter’s favorite time. Her mother strung the big bulb colored lights on the tree and she got to hang the balls on the lower part of the tree as well as a few other ornaments. And, she was taught from an early age how to meticulously hang each piece of tinsel on the branches. Tinsel was never thrown on the tree. When they were finished, the lights were turned out and mother and daughter would sit and admire their beautiful, perfect Christmas tree. This was the beginning of a cherished Christmas Season. It was a time of the year where the birth of Jesus was celebrated and remembered in this home. It was customary for the mother to read the story about Jesus’ birth from her old, worn Bible on Christmas morning. For this reason, Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year. I am very thankful to have been the little girl who experienced this holiday every year. I cherish those memories. To those of you who celebrate Christmas, may the season be joyous, merry, and bright. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14 Merry Christmas! “Over the River and Through the Woods” by Lydia Maria Child (1844) Jacque Holliday is a long time freelance contributor to UBFP. She always welcomes your comments via email at jacque@ubfp.org
In ancient times, both Druids and Romans hung sprigs of mistletoe in their homes and places of celebration to bring good fortune, peace and love.
Quakertown Lions Club Thanks Community As you probably know, the Quakertown Halloween parade was cancelled for the first time in its 52 year history because of rainy weather two weeks in a row. Many might not be aware that it costs between $5,000 and $7,000 dollars for the parade to happen. Advertisements, portable toilets, prizes for the participants, and entertainment fees, (all of the musical groups are paid) are just some of the costs for the parade. The Lions Club asks for sponsors from local businesses to help defray the cost. The donations are given before the parade. There is a separate account for the Halloween Parade in addition to the club’s fundraising money that is used to make our charitable donations each year. Typically we give away about $8,000 to $10,000 annually. We were disappointed at not being able to have the parade this year and we didn’t know what to do with the sponsor money that had already been given. When we approached the sponsors we were humbly surprised and grateful for their response. The options were 1) donate the funds to the club which would be used at our discretion, 2) transfer your sponsorship to our upcoming Designer Bag Bingo, or 3) request a refund of the sponsorship amount. The vast majority said to use the money for charity and approach them again next year to give toward the parade. Even though the parade was cancelled there were bills to pay. We were able to pay those bills and to donate $400 each to two of the local food pantries who were scheduled to collect canned goods at the parade. We were fortunate to be able to use most of the sponsor money toward our November Bingo fundraiser. With the money we got from the parade sponsors and those that were already committed to sponsoring our Bingo, most of the Bingo prizes were paid for. Therefore, almost all the money we received at the Bingo event from the ticket sales, raffles, and the Chinese auction will go to our fundraising account to help others. We’d like to thank the following sponsors for donating to the Halloween Parade and or the Designer Bingo: BLOMMER CHOCOLATE COMPANY BRACALENTE MANUFACTURING CO. C & W METER SERVICE CASEY’S PLACE UPPER BUCKS FREE PRESS C.R. STRUNK FUNERAL HOME, INC. EAS WATER COFFEE PAPER FREDERICK’S MEATS FRIENDLY BOOK STORE GRIM, BIEHN & THATCHER, P.C. H2O SOLUTIONS LAZER LIMOUSINE LEVY SCHOOL BUS COMPANY LIONS CLUB OF TRUMBAUERSVILLE NEW VITAE – QUAKERTOWN HOUSE PRECISION SOLUTIONS, INC. PRESIDENTIAL PRINTING
QNB BANK QUAKER CLEANERS LAUNDRY LLC QUAKERTOWN EYE ASSOCIATES SANDS AUTO GROUP SPORS GENERAL STORE THE PROPER BREWING COMPANY UIG / FARMERS INSURANCE VIEW THRU TECHNOLOGY Without their help we could not give as much to our community. We would also like to thank the residents of the Quakertown area for their support of all of our projects – White Cane, buying hot dogs and hoagies, bingo, and our food drive. You might ask why men and women would join a club where they pay for dinners at meetings as well as a yearly membership fee and then spend hours at service projects and fundraising events. Some of the reasons are: • We pay for eye examinations and glasses for those that cannot afford them. • We award three high school senior scholarship awards. • We support Leader Dog for those with visual disabilities. • We help with eye and diabetes research. • We provide Christmas meal baskets to less fortunate families. One of our most satisfying projects is one that we became involved in over the past few years and that is providing annual screening for vision and hearing for young children. The club goes out to local private schools and daycares to test their hearing and eyesight. If a problem is suspected, a notice is sent home to the parents to alert them to see a doctor. We were recently told that a child that we referred for possible vision problems did indeed have a need for glasses. The child and her parents were not aware that she had a problem. After she went to a doctor, it was discovered that she was very much in need of glasses. The child didn’t know what she was missing. Now that she has glasses, she sees the beauty of the world around her, is doing much better in school, and it was reported that she only takes the glasses off at bath and bed time. Not all referrals result in a need for glasses or hearing aids, but if we can help just one child in this way, it is very gratifying. It should be noted that the machines that we use cost over $5,000 each and that is where some of our fundraising money is spent. Two of our upcoming projects are shopping for Holiday Baskets In December and our Food Drive for the local food pantries on February 1st both at Redner’s Market. If you’d like information about the club or you’d like to help sponsor one of our activities or are considering becoming a member, we’d be happy to talk to you. Please call our current president, Bill at 215-536-0596. If there is no answer, please leave a message.
For many years, the drivers at the Levy School Bus Company have been active participants in the annual Quakertown Halloween parade. Last year, they won most comical for their “Spider Bus.” While this year’s parade was cancelled, you can see that the wet weather did not dampen their spirits or creativity in putting together “Levy’s Magic School Bus.” According to Warren Levy, the drivers are looking forward to doing something even better next year. We can’t wait to see what they have in mind!. submitted photo
Paramedics Earn Second PA CARES Award
For the second consecutive year, Grand View Hospital Paramedics have received the Pennsylvania CARES (Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival) Award. Presented in October during Sudden Cardiac Awareness Month, the CARES award acknowledges our paramedics’ dedication to collecting out-of-hospital cardiac arrest data to help improve the quality of care. Grand View Health Paramedics is one of 145 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies statewide recognized by Pennsylvania CARES. “This honor signifies the way our staff of state-certified paramedics and Emergency
Medical Technicians (EMTs) work with 9-1-1 call centers, EMS agencies and Grand View Hospital to improve cardiac arrest survival rates,” said Brad Eliff, lead paramedic with Grand View Health Emergency and Trauma Services, Medic 151. The hospital’s Medic 151 emergency ambulance service offers Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) services. It proudly serves the boroughs of Perkasie, Dublin and Sellersville, as well as West Rockhill, East Rockhill, Hilltown, Milford and Salford townships.
December 2019 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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Surviving the Holidays Why the positive pessimist? I’m naturally a pessimist, but even I can learn to think positively with practice! As much as I love the holidays, some years have been extremely tough for me. One year, I even found out that my boyfriend was cheating on me two days before Christmas which made it not only impossible to enjoy the holiday, but I don’t really remember much of that year. Others may have trouble finding enjoyment because this is their first big holiday alone after losing a loved one. Some people might just be a little down or could even be clinically depressed. Whatever the reason, it’s up the rest of us to make sure that the people in our lives who might be struggling don’t struggle alone especially at this time of year. The first step in helping someone is to not get so caught up in your own problems that you aren’t paying attention or listening to those around you. The holidays can be a busy time for all of us, but it’s important to find time to check on those who might need some extra love. And if you are the one who is finding it a little hard to get into the holiday spirit, try listening to some happy music. It doesn’t have to be holiday music, either. Anything will do… just find something that makes you smile. And
if that doesn’t work, find some happy people to hang out with. We all have family and friends who we need to see over the holidays, but if your family isn’t enough to put a smile on your face – call a friend who does and make plans to get together. Even if it’s only for an hour or two, laughter can be the best medicine. One thing I’ve noticed is that I’m my worst critic. I’m hard on myself, and I try to be perfect all the time which I’ve found is totally unrealistic. My bar was set so high for myself and others, that I was NEVER happy with the outcome. So, go ahead and lower that bar. Make yourself happier by giving yourself a break. Take care of yourself by cooking yourself healthier meals, put yourself to bed early, and meditate or workout – do what brings you peace of mind, body, and soul. If nothing else works and you are someone who is depressed, please take the first step and tell someone! It can be the hardest thing you’ve ever had to admit to, but it’s important to speak up. Depression can is something you can’t control, and seeking help is admirable. And if you don’t have anyone to talk to, the Suicide Prevention Line phone number is 1-800-273-8255. For more tips on how to stay positive this holiday season including additional resource links for those suffering from depression, visit my website: KellyJax.com.
Use Year-end Bonus (or Gift) Wisely As 2019 draws to a close, you may be anticipating – or have already received – a year-end bonus from your employer. Or you might be receiving a substantial cash gift for the holidays. (If you’re really lucky, you might get both.) You can doubtlessly think of many ways to spend this money right now, but how can you use it to help yourself in the long run? Here are a few suggestions: • Pay off some debts. Virtually all of us carry some type of debt, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. For example, your mortgage not only gives you a place to live and a chance to build equity in your home, but the interest payments are typically tax deductible. Other debts, though, such as those on consumer items, are not so positive – you generally can’t deduct the interest payments, and the items themselves probably won’t enhance your personal wealth. Plus, the bigger your monthly debt payments, the less you’ll have to invest for your future. So, you might want to use your bonus or monetary gift to pay off, or at least pay down, some of your less productive debts. • Start an emergency fund. If you were to face a large, unexpected expense, such as the need for a new furnace or a major car repair, how would you pay for it? If you didn’t have the cash on hand, you might be forced to dip in to your long-term investments, such as your stocks and mutual funds. A much better option is to build an emergency fund, containing six to 12 months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account. It will take time to build such a fund, of course, but your year-end bonus or gift money could give you a good start.
• Contribute to your IRA. You can put in up to $6,000 to your IRA, or $7,000 if you’re 50 or older. And although you’ve got until April 15, 2020, to fully fund your IRA for the 2019 tax year, you still might want to put your “extra” money into your account right away. If you wait, you’ll probably find other uses for this money. And if you’re going to enjoy a comfortable retirement, you’ll need to maximize every possible resource – and your IRA is one of your best ones. Furthermore, the sooner you get the money into your IRA, the more potential it will have to grow over time. • Feed your college fund. If you’re already contributing to a college fund for your young children or grandchildren, you can use your year-end bonus or monetary gift to add to the fund. If you haven’t already started such an account, you might want to use this money for that purpose. You could open a 529 plan, which provides possible tax benefits and gives you control of the funds until it’s time for them to be used for college or some type of vocational school. (Depending on where you live, you might also get tax benefits from your state if you use a 529 savings plan to pay for K-12 expenses.) To achieve all your financial goals, you’ll need to take advantage of your opportunities – and your year-end bonus or monetary gift can certainly be one of them. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Bob Podraza on West Broad Street, Quakertown. He can be reached at 215-536-3635 or at bob.podraza@edwardjones.com
“I heard the bells on Christmas Day. Their old, familiar carols play, And wild and sweet the words repeat Of peace on earth, good-will to men!” - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2019
Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship Bible Baptist Church
First United Church of Christ
Meets in Strayer Middle School Cafeteria 1200 Ronald Reagan Drive Quakertown, PA 18951 267-772-0288 www.biblebaptistcares.org Pastor: Tom Harris Bible Study Hour 9:30 am, Morning Worship 10:30 am, Services interpreted for the deaf
Fourth Street & Park Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4447 info@firstUCC.net www.firstUCC.net Facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertown Co-Pastors: Douglas & Joyce Donigian Traditional worship Sunday 9:15am, Contemporary Service 11:45am, Alternative worship Sunday 5:15pm, Community dinners every 3rd Thursday 5:30pm
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 Pastor: Carolann Hopcke 9:00am Worship, 10:15 Sunday School Free Drive-in Movies 1st & 3rd Friday evenings June through August, 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!
Evangel Assembly of God
401 Arch Street Perkasie, PA 18944 484-860-8269 Pastor: Rev. Gary Saul Sunday Morning Worship 10:30am, Adult Sunday School 9:30am, Wednesday Evening Prayer & Bible Study 6:00pm, Where God’s Love Changes Lives
First United Methodist Church
501 Market Street Perkasie, PA 18944 215-257-4626 fumcperkasie@verizon.net www.fumcperkasie.com Pastor: Scott Dorn Sunday Worship Schedule: 9am Contemporary service; 10:30am Traditional Worship
Good News Church
424 Juniper Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4393 Pastor: David Markey, Jr. An alternative to the ultra-contemporary Sunday Worship and Children’s Church 10:30 am, Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm, World Evangelism Fellowship affiliate.
Grace Bible Fellowship Church
1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N. Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-6096 grace@quakertownbfc.org www.quakertownbfc.org Sr. Pastor: Ron Kohl Sunday School for all ages. 10:10am Morning Worship, Evening 1st & 3rd Sundays 6:30pm; Small group meetings 2nd & 4th Sundays 6:30pm; Tues: Ladies Bible Study 9:30am; Wed: AWANA (2 yrs - 6th grade) & Teens for Christ 6:30pm, Adult Bible Study 7pm.
Juniper Street Bible Church
317 Juniper Street Quakertown, PA 18951 267-373-9115 Lead Pastor: Martin McPherson Associate Pastor: Bob Stevenson www.juniperstreetbiblechurch.org Contemporary Worship Service: Sunday 10 am, Prayer meeting for Quakertown Service Wednesday 7pm, Other services as announced. Watch us live on Facebook Sunday mornings at “Juniper Street Bible Church”
Morning Star Fellowship
429 S. 9th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-529-6422 Pastor: John Decker www.mstarqtown.org Services at 9am & 11am, Children’s Ministry provided, EastWest Cafe open with free coffee. Celebrate recovery Tuesday 7pm. Check website for more info.
Quakertown United Methodist Church
1875 Freier Road Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4992 barb@qumc.com www.qumc.com Pastor: Rev. Lori Wagner Sunday morning worship: 8:00, 9:00, 11:00am Sunday School for all ages 10:00am Communion first Sunday of each month.
Richland Friends Meeting (Quaker)
Main St at Mill Rd & Park Ave Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-7555 Friends@RichlandQuakers.org www.RichlandQuakers.org Clerk: Jack H. Schick Non-Denominational guided meditations Wed, 7pm Sunday worship 10:30am “Absolute freedom of thought and worship is our faith and practice.”
St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown
1565 Sleepy Hollow Road, Spinnerstown 215-536-0734 stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org Pastor: The Rev. Axel Kaegler Worship: 9:45am; Sunday School 9 - 9:45am 3 yrs - 6th grade; Nursery 6 mo - age 8.
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ
104 Green Street, Sellersville 215-257-7268 Pastor: Rev. Trudy Irving stacey@stpaulsucc.net www.stpaulsucc.net 9am Sunday School for all ages, 10:15 Worship in Sanctuary, Prayer Shawl Ministry 1st & 3rd Tuesdays 1 to 3pm.
Trinity Great Swamp UCC
9150 Spinnerstown Road Spinnerstown 215-679-7710 office@tgsucc.org www.tgsucc.org Pastor: Deb Timmons Beginning Sept 8: Sunday Worship 9am ; Sunday School (K - adult)10:15am; Family activities throughout the year.
Trinity Lutheran Church
102 N. Hellertown Avenue, Quakertown 215-536-4345 www.trinityquakertown.org Pastor: Lynette R. Chapman 9am Traditional Service, 11am; Contemporary Service, 10:30am; FaithQuest, 10:15am; Handicapped accessible, Family friendly Church, Dynamic Music Ministry, Living God’s Love for All.
Victory Fellowship Church
120 Ridge Road, Telford 215-453-9988 victoryfellowshippa@gmail.com www.victoryfellowshippa.org Pastor: Dr. Virgil A. Mobley Full Gospel.A friendly, loving, and joyful church where the presence of God is in His house. Check out our website.
St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley
910 Allentown Road, West Rockhill Twp 215-257-9643 stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com www.stjohnsridgevalley.com 8:30am Traditional - 10:15am w/praise band. Grape juice & gluten-free wafers available. Adult Forum 9:40, Handicapped accessible. All invited and welcome to Share the Joy!
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Applebachsville
837 Old Bethlehem Road, Quakertown 215-536-5789 stpauls@netcarrier.com www.stpaulsqtown.org Pastor: Rev. David Heckler We believe in sharing God’s love in joyful service. Come and see. All are welcome.
To have your place of worship included in this directory, please contact Terri Roger at 215-529-8915 ext 11 or email at terri@ubfp.org
Have something to share with your community? Send us the details! info@ubfp.org
December 2019 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
‘The Front Porch’
BY REV. DR. LORI WAGNER Remember those days when everyone would hang on the front porch? I’m sure some of you do. That’s where socializing would happen. People would pass by on the streets and stop to talk. Neighbors would share stories and recipes sitting on the porch. People would read the newspaper, play the guitar, knit, do their wash in a washtub, or even shell vegetables on the front porch. It was gathering time. Community time. At Christmastime, the front porch became even more vital to the life of the neighborhood, as people would string beautiful lights, tinsel, and other décor around the family porch. The neighborhood lit up with light and color, and it almost seemed like a beautiful dream walking down the road in the crisp cool of dusk, surrounded by a halo of twinkling hues. You could feel the mystery of Christmas, the comfort of neighbors and family, the knitting of community, all joined together in a festival of light. Carolers would go house to house and sing for hot chocolate and cookies. People would gather on the porches and streets. When Saturday evening came, the town would gather in the local church or grange for food and fellowship. And Sunday morning they would gather for church. But it was the “front porch” that cemented them, that bonded them in ways that nothing else could, that provided a connection from personal space to social and public space that nothing else could emulate. Today, we need new “front porches.” Today’s culture is filled with busy workplaces, a hoard of cars, online shopping, and hectic scheduling. People live in high rises, in complexes, in suburbs, and in more isolated environments. Even in the cities, the “front porch” tradition has been replaced with jobs, locks, bars, and fears. The traditional front porch and its activities have been replaced by online connections, face time, Starbucks, and community sports. Individuals and families have become more isolated and insulated. And the conversations have also changed. No longer are we playing music, telling stories, shelling peas together, walking hand-in-hand under twinkling Christmas lights. But we are searching. We are searching for new stories, new relationships, new ways of connecting face to face, and new activities we can do together in new times and places, in new ways and spaces. The Church, like its communities, too must change in order to meet the needs of a new kind
of culture and new generations. The Church of the future can innovate new kinds of spaces for searching and lonely people. And when church and community unite, we can forge new kinds of connectors, new “front porches” and “town centers” for community to gather. Where in your community can you create space for people to connect and make relationships, tell stories, hold hands, and feel the magic of Christmas? Where in your town, city, or suburb can you create safe, relational spaces for people to discover what’s beautiful about being human in everyday life? Where in your church can your community gather to explore their faith in new ways and models and to share ideas and make new stories together? Christmas is about forging a new covenant and making things new. It’s about bringing a baby into the world who will change life as we knew it for all of time. Jesus created spaces and connections between people that would change their lives and those around them forever. Jesus created “front porch” environments on hilltops and in boats on the water and at weddings and even by the side of the road. This Christmas, I ask every one of you to pray, to open your hearts to the people you don’t know. Invite them to your home, to your church activities, to take part in your small group, to join in your mission. Ask them for their ideas, for their input, and for their presence at your tables, on your lawns, at your events, and even in your own spaces. Make “your” space public, social space. Give the gift of space. Give the gift of community. Look around to find where you can create new kinds of gathering spaces for people in the center of your community, where people can bond and grow, share and find the “magic” of Christmas again in the gift of relationship, the gift of loving kindness, the gift of a “front porch” neighbor. Better yet, be a “front porch” neighbor to someone who is searching. Be a musician, a storyteller, a sharer of memories, food, and faith. Forge front porches by being front porch people. Forge new kinds of community, and you will forge new faith in God, in people, and most of all, in the future. A blessed Christmas to all….and a bright future to all in Quakertown and its communities. PS: If you know anyone this year without a place or space at Christmas, invite them to share at your table. Or invite them to worship. You never know the gift you may be giving. Lori Wagner is the pastor at Quakertown United Methodist Church. She can be reached at loribethwagner@gmail.com
Quakertown Receives $250,000 to Revitalize Panther Playground Quakertown Borough has been awarded $250,000 in grant monies through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Community Conservation Partnerships Program for the Revitalization of Panther Playground located in Memorial Park on Mill Street. The existing Panther Playground is a wooden-castle structure built by community volunteers in the summer of 1992 that has been home to many memories throughout the years. Unfortunately, Panther Playground is closing on its useful lifespan, and is becoming unfit for play. As such, Quakertown Borough’s Parks and Recreation Department has begun efforts on the Revitalization of Panther Playground Project to replace the existing playground structure with the support of Borough Council. The Parks and Recreation department has received an overwhelming amount of positive feed-back and suggestions on improvements that the community would like to see in the new Panther Playground. The Borough’s Parks and Recreation department invited community children to participate in the new design of Panther Playground by submitting a drawing of their dream playground. The winner of the drawing contest will see their dream playground come to life in the design of Panther Playground. Quakertown Borough
looks forward to introducing the community to a new modern, all-inclusive playground that will give children of all ages and abilities an equal opportunity of play. The Borough has continued its fundraising efforts by applying for federal funding through the Land Water and Conservation Fund.
The Quakertown Borough Parks and Recreation department stated “While it is sad to see Panther Playground come down after many years, we are sensitive to the sentimental value of the playground and all of the memories that have been created over the years. We look forward to introducing the community to new modern and all-inclusive concepts that will have a longer lifespan so community members can continue to make lasting memories.”
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2019
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December 2019 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
Now that our recent Freeze temperatures have killed the adult Spotted Lanternfly, what do I do now? Scrape,Scrape, Scrape! Since Spotted Lanternflies lay their eggs in the Fall, the best time to find and destroy viable egg masses is late fall through early spring. Spotted lanternfly will lay their eggs on almost any nearby flat surface so search for eggs on trees, especially tree trunks, rocks, patio furniture and other hard surfaces. SLF eggs masses are a putty grey in color and are an inch or two wide and two to three inches. (See photo below) Scrape egg masses into a zipper style plastic bag with some isopropyl alcohol or hand sanitizer in the bottom. Double bag and dispose in your trash. Each egg mass you destroy will kill 30-60 potential SLF.
Can you enjoy a real Christmas Tree? The answer is YES! Real trees are part of an outdoor ecosystem, thus there is always a chance that insects may be brought indoors with a tree. With the spotted lanternfly currently an issue of concern, questions have been raised regarding the possibility of spotted lanternflies being carried into homes. Although unlikely spotted lanternfly eggs will be on Christmas trees, if they were to hatch indoors the nymphs pose no threat to humans or animals, and will die quickly. Christmas Tree growers follow integrated pest management practices to minimize such threats. If consumers are concerned they are encouraged to inspect the tree prior to purchase. Spotted lanternfly egg masses are visible on the bark if present and can be easily removed. Purchasing real Christmas trees benefits local growers and the local economy. They are also an environmentally friendly choice as Christmas trees are a renewable resource and can be easily recycled, unlike artificial trees. For those living inside the quarantine zone, we encourage trees to be disposed of by recycling programs where they will be shredded and composted or burned (if allowed
by the municipality) and should not transported out of the quarantine zone. Master Gardeners and Master Watershed Stewards Celebrate a Record Year! Recently the Penn State Master Gardeners and Master Watershed Stewards of Bucks County held their Annual Dinner Meeting. It was a great way for all to reconnect after spending the busy year on their respective committees and community outreach, such as the demonstration gardens at Neshaminy Health Center, May Plant Sale, Wrightstown Grange Fair, Venice Ashby Program, Garden Hotline, Speakers Bureau, participation in the International Master Gardener Conference to name a few . This year the Master Gardeners celebrated a milestone-over 10,600 collective hours of volunteerism in our County. December Tips courtesy of the 2020 Master Gardener Calendar • Regularly water cut Christmas trees and live arrangements to prevent dessication. • Water Poinsettias and other holiday plants when the top one inch of soil feels dry. • After watering, drain excess water from foil or saucer. • Protect perennials from winter sidewalk salt damage by using rock salt alternatives such as sand, kitty litter, or magnesium chloride
Our home gardening hotline and social media center is now closed until March, 2020. But, you can still call, email, or write us with your home gardening questions. New Hotline Number: 267-483-2022 “Ask a Master Gardener” Penn State Extension Bucks County Neshaminy Manor Center 1282 Almshouse Road Doylestown, PA 18901 Email: BucksMG@psu.edu Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!
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Local Philanthropist Will Make $1000 Donation for Your Car
Gene Epstein who originally designed ‘Wheelz2Work’ will make a $1,000 donation to a charity of a donor’s choice in exchange for a car. As part of the Bucks County Opportunity Council’s Wheelz2Work Program, Gene Epstein of the Gene and Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Fund will make a $1,000 donation to the first ten people who donate a car to BCOC’s Wheelz2Work program between now and the end of the year, 2019. Since the program started years ago over 450 families’ lives were changed for the better. Here at BCOC, we have received over 50 donated cars for this program and turned them over to help their clients on the road to economic self-sufficiency. In some cases, the car has made the difference between getting a new job or not. “I think if you have an old car, you should really consider this opportunity,” explains
Epstein who has been advising this program for many years, particularly when it was run out of Bucks County Community College. “Donating a car like this will change a life, we have already changed countless lives in Bucks County with BCOC and we would like to do ten more before the end of 2019. Rememeber that our program is one of only a handful in the USA where you get a full retail value donation based on book value of your car since it goes to the recipient plus you get a bonus donation made in your name to your favorite charity. It’s a win, win.” All cars are evaluated by mechanics who have partnered with BCOC on this project before being accepted as a donation to the Opportunity Council. For more information about the program or how to donate a car, contact Eileen Albillar at 215-345-8175 x 209 or at ealbillar@bcoc.org
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2019
A Season of Giving
Every December I like to focus on ways to give back, as I think that should be a big part of the holiday season! There are so many people (and animals) in need, and simple things can make a huge difference to them! Below are 3 ways you can give back this holiday season… Volunteer your time – whether this is spending time going to a shelter to walk dogs or play with cats, or taking one of those lucky creatures home for the holidays, or taking your therapy dog to a retirement community, or helping a rescue or shelter with their social media, or running a fundraiser…there are SO many ways to donate your time, and it can mean so much! Donate financially – so many great non-profits are out there, and many run solely based upon donations by their followers! We all have so much stuff…how about considering donating to a great charity instead? My family started doing this instead of a gift exchange,
and we have never looked back! There are a TON of options so be sure to do your research to ensure that the group you are supporting is truly a non-profit, and your donation will go to people or pets in need! Spend time with family – it’s easy to get caught up in the holiday season and bustle of travel and shopping…but remember what it is about – family! So this could be hanging out with your grandparents or nephews, or even your own pets! Spending time with them going for a nice walk, or spending time playing with your cat, that is just as important this season! And your pets will appreciate the extra attention as much as we do! Whatever you do this holiday season, I hope that it is one that is filled with family, love, and fun! Merry Christmas all, and have a very Happy New Year! Dr. Mehaffey and partner Dr. Jen Heller own and operate the Pennridge Animal Hospital on Ridge Road in Perkasie and can be reached at 267-272-9996. They also founded and run Harley’s Haven Dog Rescue.
Harley’s Haven
Tiny
Meet Tiny! Where are all of our senior lovers? Great things come in the smallest of packages. This sweet senior JRT gal was surrendered to ACCT by her owner because they were moving and felt they didn’t have time for her. Imagine being dropped at a loud scary shelter after 10 years in a cozy home? We knew we had to break Tiny free right away! Despite her age, Tiny absolutely LOVES going on walks and her little legs move fast! Second to walks she enjoys being swaddled into a blanket burrito and relaxing with her humans (and furry siblings) on the sofa. Tiny is house and crate trained, she is spayed, microchipped, and current on her vaccines. She is a wonderful girl, in a tiny package...check her out today!
Redesigned for 2019, Toyota’s fifth generation RAV4 is the top selling small AWD SUV in the country. Aside from its stylish yet macho looks, the RAV offers a new engine with 27 more horsepower, is 1.2 inches longer, yet has a lighter curb weight for improved fuel economy. It also provides the latest in safety technology and infotainment niceties. Offered in LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure and Limited, we were privileged to test the Adventure that sports a slightly more rugged, off-road look with its flared fenders, 1.9-inch higher undercarriage clearance and 19-inch tires, compared to the other trim versions. We fell in love with the Adventure for many reasons, but mainly its eye-catching paint job. It came adorned with a Lunar Rock body color and white roof paint scheme. A greyish color that is so appropriate for a capable off-roader. But RAV’s stylish looks is not only on its exterior, but Adventures’ interior is equally as eclectic. With light grey and white trim with orange accents together with supportive and comfy perforated leather seats that carry the orange stitching theme, they really set off the cockpit giving it a bright and sexy appearance. It’s truly an adventure when slipping behind the steering wheel. With an iPad type, 8-inch touchscreen that perches atop the dash, it has a split-screen capability and serves the usual compliment of rearview camera, App-Connect with Apple CarPlay, Entune infotainment, JBL audio, and current/3/6/12-day forecasts, plus a weather map.
Bane
Meet Bane! Bane is a 1 1/2 year old mix breed hunk who LOVES his people! If you’re looking for a shadow who will shower you with cuddles and kisses, he is your man! Bane would prefer to be your one and only guy. He does well with cats, though sometimes he wants to chase them and play. He also did great with his interaction with young children! He is very strong and athletic and would do best with a family who can keep up with his exercise needs. He does well in his crate and is an absolute love! He is a fun, loving guy, who needs a family to dote on him - contact us if you could be the ones for him!
Looking for a furever friend? Give Harley’s Haven a call at (267) 354-5204.
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local. Happy Holidays This year has gone by so fast I can’t believe that the holidays are upon on us. Pretty much everyone I have talked to feels the same way that this year just flew by. So here we are again contemplating all of the things associated with the holidays. Family, presents, dinner… what are we going to do. Some people rarely question the family and dinner because they already have family traditions in place. While the rest of us may be feeling like UGH!! The holidays can be stressful for some people because of their family situations or financial issues. Not everyone enjoys the holidays. Some put on a good face for their children or just because it is Christmas and we are supposed to be excited about this holiday. I happen to love Christmas. I love the smell of the fresh cut Christmas tree, the lights, the garland, the beautiful ornaments, the memories, the smell of a good pine candle, presents, eggnog and let’s not forget COOKIES!! I especially love to connect with people at the holidays and wish them a Merry Christmas and smile at them. There are some lonely people at the holidays and to take a moment to smile at them and wish them happiness is a gift. Gifts aren’t always in the physical means. Gifts can be those unexpected surprises from our relatives visiting us, someone picking up that family member from the airport, someone making us homemade cookies, someone listening to us because we are feeling sad… For some of us gifts are spiritual in nature or
2019 Toyota RAV4
from God. People who suddenly appear in our life at just the right moment is a gift. When we are able to open our hearts to others that is a gift to us and to them. Recognizing that we need to change is a gift, meaning to be open to the possibilities of what the holidays can be about family, love and connection; and family is defined by friends as well as fellow patrons at our local churches. Family is about unity and a sense of belonging which is a gift. Even when we may be experiencing hardships in our lives during the holidays, take a moment to look around for the gifts. What am I learning from this experience? Hardships and loss have a way of bringing us closer to others on a much deeper and vulnerable level. To be able to be a part of this or even witness it is a gift. Give the gift of love, joy, peace and happiness this holiday season. Recognize that you are not alone. Allow yourself to experience the blessings that are all around us. We can get so bogged down with all of the stress instead of participating and being truly present in what we are doing. Enjoy baking cookies, buying presents for loved ones and sharing a meal with your family whomever they may be. Take a moment to just be present in the company of others. The simple things are the gifts. Remember that you are a gift to yourself as well as others. My belief is, “that all persons are truly greater than they think they are.” Susan V. Brewer is a Certified Life Coach and Psychotherapist in the Upper Bucks County Area. She can be reached at 215-872-4219. Visit her website at www.balancelife4u.com.
Below it are easy to operate HVAC controls and a bin beneath them resides a convenient wireless smartphone charger. RAV4 Adventure has a special AWD system that can send torque to either front, rear, left or right wheels. It has four modes of Mud/ Sand, Rock/Dirt, Snow and Downhill. When selecting any of these modes, a pictorial displays within the speedometer that also serves as a driver information display. The only gear missing is a Lock gear that is handy when getting stuck in deep snow or mud. There are also three driving modes of Eco, Normal and Sport, the latter livens performance somewhat. This brings us to the powertrain. RAV has but one. A 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder that puts out 203-hp and 183 lb/ft of torque. It couples to an 8-speed automatic transmission that earned EPA mileage estimates of 25 city, 33-highway mpg. Most of RAV’s competitors employ a CVT to attain similar mileage estimates. But thankfully Toyota maintained a traditional trans that helps the RAV to tow an impressive 3,500 pounds. Only thing missing are paddle
shifters to downshift when traversing downhill’s, instead of riding the brakes. So powered, RAV exudes a linear application of power. Under half and full throttle, the engine is a bit on the noisy side. But on highways, RAV offers an exceptionally quiet ride. We did notice the accelerator pedal is touchy and requires acclimating to its sensitivity for smoother starts from a dead stop. Handling wise, RAV4 is balanced with nary any body lean in sharp turns. Its suspension nicely absorbs most road imperfections and only major bumps and protruding tar strips reverberate into the cabin. Otherwise it rides smoothly on Toyo 19-inch tires. RAV parks easily as well, with a tight 37.5 turning radius. It’s nimble and fun to drive. For back seat riders, a comfortable 19-inch step-in allows an easy slip-in thanks to wide opening doors. RAVs back seat is exceptionally comfy for two adults or three tweens. All are treated to decent leg room and spacious headroom.
Back in the cargo area, where the liftgate can be opened by a wave of the foot beneath the rear bumper, it has a low 27.5-inch liftover. Within it, there’s a generous amount of cargo space, the largest in its class. It offers 37.5 cubic feet with the rear seats upright, which translates into it being 40 inches deep, 44 wide and 32 high. Flip the seatbacks and cargo depth expands to 70 inches, almost a full six feet. Beneath the cargo floor a few small items can be stowed around the spare tire and out of sight. Standard on the Adventure model is Toyota’s Sense Suite 2.0 that contains pre-collision with pedestrian detection, radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist and more. The Adventure started at a base price of $32,900 but escalated with a host of much desired options that included: Adventure Grade Weather Package ($1,185) with heated seats/ steering wheel, rain sensing and de-icing wipers; power moonroof ($850); Adventure Technology Package ($1,265) with rear cross traffic braking, wireless phone charger, digital display rearview mirror and more; Entune Infotainment System ($1,620) with satellite radio, JBL audio, 8-inch touchscreen (a 7-inch is standard) with voice recognition and many more. The two-tone paint job (white roof) adds $500 and cargo/floor mats tack on $269 along with delivery ($1,045) takes the bottom line to $39,634. It’s a premium price for a premium crossover that is probably the best RAV4 to date. And its sales numbers reflect it. Nick Hromiak is an automotive enthusiast and freelance writer. We look forward to bringing you his new column each month. He can be reached at nhromiak@verizon.net.
December 2019 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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‘Quakertown Cares’ Total Growing “QUAKERTOWN CARES” COMMITTEE
As Thanksgiving draws near, $33,547 has been donated to “Quakertown Cares,” a Quakertown area holiday fund-raiser that helps seniors, families and veterans in need. The campaign officially continues through mid-January, although contributions are accepted throughout the year, and “Cares” has grown to the point that it is now able to help those in need year-round! On November 25, “Cares,” along with Classic Staffing Services, the Virginia Reiss Agency and Oldcastle Lawn and Garden distributed more than 125 turkeys (with the fixings!) to those who might otherwise not be able to have Thanksgiving dinner. This event is rewarding to all as recipients are personally given their turkeys dinners. Classic Staffing has hosted this event for years and donated $1,000 to it, Oldcastle gave $1,275 and the Virginia Reiss Agency $750. There have been two large anonymous donations to the “Cares” campaign so far this year. A local family foundation gave $15,000 and a business $10,000! All we can say at “Cares” is thank you, thank you, thank you for caring! QNB, one of “Quakertown Cares”’ partners, donated $1,200, as did an anonymous Quakertown Borough resident. Quakertown United Methodist Church gave $652 gathered from special collections, Brenda and Christopher Roth $500 and the accounting firm Hutchinson, Gillahan and Freeh donated $450 to the cause. Milford Township residents gave $300 anonymously, and Rev. Cheryl Stoneback, Virginia and David Woodbury, Hayley Stauffer, Anthony and Deborah Orr, Steven and Linda Cardell, anonymous Quakertown Borough and Richland Township residents, and Dorothy Bleam in memory of Ronald Bleam all
gave $100 each. Thank you for helping your neighbors! Giving $50 to the campaign were Jeffrey and Lynn Geesaman, Network for Good, Diane and Thomas Cressman, Heidi and Timothy Johnson, Janet McClean and anonymous Richland Township and Quakertown Borough residents. Anonymous Richland Township and Quakertown Borough residents also gave $40 each. Finally, an anonymous donation of $35 was made by a Richland Township resident, $30 was given to the cause by Elaine Donnelly, and an anonymous Quakertown Borough resident contributed $25. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! “Cares” has used these gifts to help individuals and families directly, but also provided $1,000 to the Bucks County Area Agency on Aging Foundation for its social workers to assist seniors in the Quakertown community. The campaign will also be sponsoring three children in the Shop with a Cop Program. During this holiday season so far “Quakertown Cares” has given $100 food card gifts to 17 veterans/veteran widows, six Head Start families, 20 school families, and 160 seniors. “Cares” will also be partnering with the Quakertown Community Outreach to provide Giant food cards ($7,500) to school district families. Want to be a part of helping your neighbors this holiday season? Just fill out the coupon in this paper, and mail it and your donation to “Quakertown Cares,” c/o QNB, P.O. Box 9005, Quakertown, PA 18951, or it can be dropped off at any QNB location. Contributions are tax-deductible, and all will be acknowledged. And thank you for caring!
BuckyGrams: zebra, tiger, okapi, chipmunk, garter snake, skunk, bongo, ring-tailed lemur, armadillo, kudu, raccoon, tabby cat Hidden Message: Happy Holidays to All! Bucky Block: Pigs in a blanket
BY JANE THOMPSON-SMITH
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • December 2019
The answers to the puzzles on this page are found elsewhere in this issue.
Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.
“The two most joyous times of the year are Christmas morning and the end of school.” - Alice Cooper
Candy Cane Caroling Chimney Decorations Elves Festive
Garland Gingerbread Goodwill Holly Mistletoe Nativity
Naughty Nice North Pole Ornaments Poinsettia Presents
Reindeer Santa Sleigh Bells Snow Stockings Tinsel
December 2019 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
QCHS Schedules Vaping Panel Quakertown Community High School has scheduled a panel of experts to discuss the health and societal risks of teenage vaping. Forty-five-minute presentations “Clearing The Air About Vaping - A Discussion Panel” will be held at 9:45 and 11:45 a.m. on Tuesday, December 17th, in the high school’s Performing Arts Center. Students in 9th grade will attend the first session; 11th graders will attend the second. “Right now we are doing 9th grades and 11th grades based upon need and data of this age group,” said School Resource Officer Bob Lee, one of the presenters. Parents with students in grades 6 through 12 are invited to the two sessions. If you’re a par-
ent with a student in 9th or 11th grades, please consider attending the session your child will be attending. We understand the time of day may make it difficult for some working parents to attend, but important information will be shared and we wanted to make you aware of this opportunity. To gauge parent interest, parents are asked to email Jill West at jwest@ qcsd.org if they plan to attend a panel discussion no later than Dec. 13th. Superintendent Dr. Bill Harner has described vaping as “the scourge of this generation” in several television interviews. The vaping issue has hit Quakertown hard, with two students being found unconscious in school hallways after vaping. The district officially filed a law-
suit against the manufacturers of vaping and e-cigarette products on November 1st. Officer Lee has seen the problem firsthand and helped to organize the panel, which includes: Dr. Nicole Yoder, a doctor at St. Luke’s Hospital, specializing in pulmonary diseases of the lung; Mia Giordano, smoking cessation coordinator at St. Luke’s Hospital; Tom Gannon, prosecutor in the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office, specializing in narcotics prosecutions; Lisa Gaier, magistrate responsible for all citations related to vaping; Bob Lee, a member of Quakertown Borough Police since 2004 and SRO for five years.
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