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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2020
January 1
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks? New Year’s Day
Springtown Rod & Gun Club Annual Pork & Sauerkraut Dinner, 12noon-4pm or sold out. Eat-in/take-out. $10/adults, $5/ages 6-12.
January 4
Soup Day 11am-2pm at Dublin Fire Co, 194 N Main St. Hotdogs/sandwiches also avail. Take-out or Eat-in. Call to order quarts of soup only on Soup Day 9am-11am at 215-249-3740. 12th Ice Cream Wars 10am-3:30pm at DaVinci Science Ctr, 3145 Hamilton Blvd Bypass, Allentown. Double-check for possible changes at: davincisciencecenter.org/ ice-cream-wars or 484-664-1002. Roast Chicken Dinner (all-u-caneat) 3:30pm-7pm or sold out. $9/adults, $5/ages 5-12. Take-out avail. Zion Lutheran Fellowship Hall, 2966 N Old Bethlehem Pike, Zion Hill. FMI: 215-538-7911 day of.
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. FMI: peacevalleynaturecenter.org
January 9
Write On! Creative Writing Workshop 6:30pm-7:30pm for ages 6-12 at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. (parent participation encouraged) Learn to rewrite familiar fairy tales. Register: calendar.buckslib.org
January 11
Antique Appraisal Fair 12noon-2pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. Appraisals $6 ea. or 2 for $10. Maximum of 2 appraisals, Cash only. Designer Bag Bingo 7pm at St. Isidore School, 603 W Broad St, Quakertown. $30/ adv, $35/day of, if available. Ages 18+, BYOB, BYOS(nacks). Tkts: vjvkmcfadden@ msn.com or 215-536-6052.
January 12
Breakfast 7:30am-12noon at UBE Fire Co, 1716 Firehouse Ln, Upper Black Eddy. $8/adults, $4/ages 5-10, $3/re-orders, $9/ To-go. FMI: 610-982-5710. Vendor Bingo, door opens 12noon at Tylersport Firehouse, 125 Ridge Rd, Tylersport. $5/admission (mention Sellersville FD or charity when entering) Pay as you go w/ each vendor you pick. Also: raffle, 50/50, etc. Tkts sold at door only.
January 15
‘Perkasie Firsts’ Free Lecture by Rick Dolls, Perkasie Histor. Soc. 12noon – at Pennridge Community Ctr, Rtes 113 & 152, Silverdale. FMI: 215-453-7027
January 16
History Detectives: The Legend of Mothman, 4:30pm-5:30pm at Schwenkfelder Library Ctr, 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. FMI/register: Alyssa 215-679-3103 or alyssa@schwenkfelder.com
January 18
Yeti Storytime 10:30am at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Silly stories & snowy crafts Best for ages 3-8, all ages welcome. Spaghetti Dinner w/Salad Bar served Buffet Style 4pm-7pm or sold out at Trinity Great Swamp UCC, 9150 Spinnerstown Rd, Spinnerstown. $10/adults, $5/ages 4-12. Free under age 4. FMI: 215-679-7710 or 267-374-0590. Dance open to public w/DJ Lobie, 7:30pm11pm at American Legion, 75 North Main St, Sellersville. $10/age 21+ (cash only) FMI or possible changes check at: 267-208-0948 or info@lobieentertainment.com “Music & Sports Show” 7:30pm at Miller Symphony Hall, 23 N Sixth St, Allentown. Double-check for changes at: millersymphonyhall.org or 610-432-7961.
Bucks Camp Expo Summer Camp Fair 12noon-3pm at Delaware Valley Univ, Student Ctr Bldg, 700 E Butler Ave, Doylestown. Camps for kids ages 3-17. Double-check for changes at: buckscampexpo.com or 215-669-0011.
January 19
Palisades Community Chorus Winter Concert 3pm at St. Matthew’s Lutheran, 3668 Ridge Rd, Perkasie. Double-check for event changes at: palisadescommunitychorus.org or 610-294-9039.
January 27
Michael Napolitano of Michael & the Rockness Monsters 3:30pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Fun-filled interactive experience for the whole family. (rescheduled from Dec 2)
January 28
Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration at Allentown Art Museum, 31 North Fifth St. FMI and possible changes please double-check at 610-432-4333 or allentownartmuseum.org
Yoga Storytime w/Jess 10:15am-11am at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Bring water & comfy clothes & towel/mat. Best for ages 4-6, all ages welcome. J.T.Bankers Dine& Donate 5pm-9pm at 309 S Main St, Sellersville. Dine in or take out! 10% of proceeds donated to Last Chance Ranch Animal Shelter. lastchanceranch.org
January 25
January 31
January 26
Business Card Exchange in conjunction with UB Chamber of Commerce 11am-1pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt (entrance #1), 201 Station Rd. Gift Basket drawing!! Mbrs/free, Non-mbrs/$15. Register at ubcc.org
January 20
Martin Luther King Jr Day
World Wide Wrestling Event (seating starts 6pm) Bell time is 6:30pm.Tkts: $15/ringside, $12/gen adm. Purchase advance tkts at WWWA Office 215-362-7184. St. Isidore School Open House 10:30am12noon at 603 W Broad St, Quakertown. For Pre-School thru Grade 8. For more info about our programs, call 215-536-6052, stisidoreschool.com Free Concert “Country Jades” 11am-2pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. Red Cross Blood Drive 10am-3pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. Bloodmobile parked outside Entrance #18. Appts preferred, not necessary. Online: redcrossblood.org, sponsor code: qmart or 1-800-RED CROSS American Girl Tea Time (Julie Albright 1974) 1:30pm-2:30pm at Schwenkfelder Heritage Ctr in Pennsburg. Boys & girls are both welcome ($3/per child w/ adult) Register: Alyssa 215-679-3103 or alyssa@schwenkfelder.com
February 2 February 9
Groundhog Day
11th Annual Groundhog Lodge 1:30pm3:30pm at Schwenkfelder Heritage Ctr. (r/d Feb 16) Cost/$7 per child. Crafts, activities, goodies. Learn about the PA Dutch. Info/registration: Alyssa 215-679-3103 or alyssa@schwenkfelder.com
February 12 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. FMI: peacevalleynaturecenter.org
January 2020 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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School Districts to Hold Job Fair January 20 The Quakertown Community School District will be hosting a Job Fair for the three Upper Bucks school districts from 9 a.m. to noon on January 20 in the District Services Center, 100 Commerce Drive, Quakertown. Along with Palisades and Pennridge, Quakertown has openings for several positions, including substitute nurses, substitute teachers, instructional aides and substitute aides. In addition, representatives from Chartwells, Levy School Bus Company and SSC Services for Education will be in attendance to recruit food service workers, bus drivers and custodians, respectively. “This is a wonderful opportunity for adults, including parents of students, to work part-time and have a flexible schedule,” said
Barbara Philips, QCSD’s Human Resources Manager. “It has been difficult for us to find substitutes in several areas, and we’re hoping this recruiting effort is able to match our needs with the needs of parents and adults in our community.” The event is being organized by PA CareerLink of Bucks County. To help recruit substitutes, QCSD has increased their pay. Substitute nurses are paid $20 an hour. Substitute aides are paid $10 an hour, with a bump to $12 an hour for special education aides. QCSD contracts with Education Solutions Services (ESS) for substitute teachers, who are paid $105 per full day. Long term substitute teachers receive $140 per full day for assignments of more than 20 days.
Are there even homeless people in our town? BY BARBARA WERNER One day I said, “I am volunteering at Code Blue tonight.” The response I got was, “Are there even any homeless people in Quakertown?” Yes, indeed, there are homeless people in our town. The shelter is opened based on the temperature from November 15th through April 15th Being staffed by volunteers on an extremely cold winter nights can mean a lot of tired people. I have never heard even one person ever complain that we are open too often and they don’t want to do it anymore. When we are not open all of us are concerned and understand that this is in incredible hardship for our clients. When I started volunteering with AHUB (Advocates for the Homeless of Upper Bucks) I learned so much. Little did I know that this experience would change my life so much. I thought I knew all I needed to know about homeless people. I was so wrong. There are people who go to work every day and just can’t afford housing. There are people with problems I hope to never face, who need
help. There are so many reasons a person is homeless. How many nights do we rush into our warm homes complaining about how cold it is outside? One night I did that and immediately remembered that the shelter was closed because it was above the temperature to be open (26°). Many people would be sleeping outside tonight. How fortunate am I that I do not have to worry about that situation?! Thus the reason I get off the couch and head to the shelter on my assigned nights even though I want to stay home. We have 80+ volunteers keeping the doors open on the coldest of nights at the Quakertown location. People are cooking dinner, doing laundry, providing rides, showers, a warm bed, clothes and a friendly smile. The shelter is located at 501 W. Broad St. Please consider volunteering or making a donation. No amount of time or money is too small. Tours of the shelter are available by appointment. Contact us through our Facebook page, Upper Bucks Code Blue or by calling 267-450-5191.
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2020
New State Funding Announced, Christmas Comes Early to Park Quakertown Receives $50K for Avenue for Vet’s Family Thanks Downtown Façade Grants to Home Depot and VFW BY MICHELE BUONO Governor Tom Wolf announced the approval of more than $5 million in new funding to support 42 community revitalization projects across the commonwealth. Quakertown Borough will be benefitting from this funding. Administered by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), the Keystone Communities program is designed to support local initiatives that grow and stabilize neighborhoods and communities, foster effective public-private partnerships, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. “Supporting initiatives that encourage revitalization and business development in our communities is critically important to the economic prosperity of Pennsylvania,” said DCED Secretary Dennis Davin. “The Keystone Communities program is so vital to improving people’s lives, pushing our business sector forward, and growing Pennsylvania’s economy.” Through the efforts of Quakertown Alive!, the Borough is an accredited Keystone Community and has been awarded a third consecutive $50,000 façade grant from DCED. The funds will be awarded to property and business owners in the form of matching grants for renovations, restorations, and repairs to existing building facades. Quakertown Alive! Executive Director Naomi Naylor says applications for the grant monies will be available
to qualifying business and business property owners at grant workshops in the near future. The organization will announce guidelines and workshops necessary for potential applicants on their website, quakertownalive.com. “We will be kicking off the grant process with workshops to be announced later this month after we get more information from DCED”, said Naomi. “This grant will help small business and property owners with limited budgets to maximize enhancements to their facades. With 16,000 cars driving through the Borough daily, it’s important that our downtown be attractive for those people to stop in Quakertown for shopping and dining.” Quakertown’s façade grant initiative is a matching grant program which means that qualified business and property owners will be putting their own money up with the grant money to improve their facades. Two previous DCED $50,000 grants leveraged almost $300,000 in façade improvements in Quakertown. Some of the recipients of past façade grants are Reiss Insurance, the Free Press Building, Always Beautiful Floral Design Studio, the Karlton Building, and MCoole’s at the Red Lion Inn. Naomi continued, “This is a great win for the Borough residents business owners, and visitors. Leveraging this investment to enhance our business district creates momentum to retain the businesses we have and attract new business.”
Is It Risky to Buy a New Home Before Selling My Current One? Which comes first, the chicken (buying a new home) or the egg (selling your current home)? There is no simple answer. Knowing and understanding your options can help you make the decision that’s right for you. There can be several advantages to buying a new home before selling your current one, so I’ve broken down a few things you should consider. Timing Your Move You can take your time with the buying and moving process. You’ll have more time to shop for a new home that has the features and location that you want. Then once you buy your new home you can move in at your own pace, and put your current home on the market when ready On the other hand, if you sell your current home before buying, you face the possibility of not having a place to live. There are options. You could find interim housing such as renting until you buy a new home, including the possibility of renting your current home from the new owners. Or, once you have an offer, you can begin shopping for your new home and try to coordinate closing dates. While not impossible, this would take a bit of finagling and a lot of luck. Financing Your Move If you still owe money on your current home, then you’ll have to be able to afford two mortgages until your current home sells. How
quickly that happens depends on the housing market in your area. Having two house payments will limit your purchasing power for a new home. Selling before you buy gives you the advantage of knowing the exact amount you can put toward your new home purchase. While this might give you more peace of mind and buying power, it might mean missing out on homes you want while waiting for yours to sell. Ask the Professionals Your real estate agent can estimate the value of your current home and how quickly the current market is moving. They can also help you find information about neighborhoods you are interested in moving to and how much buying power you’ll need for the home you want. A mortgage lender can help you figure out if you can afford to have two mortgages. They can also inform you about how to use equity in your current home to help with the down payment on a new home. Whether you decide to buy first or sell first, you can make the process easier by being prepared and able to take action when the right opportunity comes along. Have more questions about buying a new home before selling your current one? Feel free to contact me for more information. 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.
BY MICHELE BUONO On a cold winter’s evening about a week before Christmas a firetruck turned on to Park Avenue in Quakertown with a very special mission. Firefighters from Quakertown’s fire Company No. 1 were bringing special visitors to a special family. Santa Claus, Snoopy, and Homer of Home Depot Depot were bringing an early Christmas to the family of David Tankelewicz and Christina Bonatsos. The firetruck pulled up to the house, followed by a pickup truck with a giant bag of gifts for the family. Seven-year-old Jake and eleven-year-old Emily emerged from their home bathed in the red light from the fire engine and full of excitement. Team members of Home Depot #4140 were determined to make the holiday merry and bright for this family. David Tankelewicz served in the Anbar Province during the Iraqi War from 2006 – 2007 and is medically retired from the Marine Corps. The John Rivers Memorial VFW Post 11322 and Commander Paul Gerhart has been a part of their lives since the family has been in Quakertown. The family even got a sneak peek (taste?) of Quakertown’s newest eatery, The Famer & The Chickpea. Home Depot Assistant Manager Lance Porubski presented David with a huge duffel bag full of food donations from the eatery which opens in Quakertown this month. Home Depot and VFW volunteers formed a human chain to unload the truckful of gifts to the house. There were Christmas gifts for everyone, even David’s service dog Josh. Mom Christina Bonatsos was almost overwhelmed at the size of the effort. “It brings tears to my eyes knowing that our family is loved and thought about by so many. The VFW has been a huge part of our lives since moving up here”’ she said. “Paul (Gerhart) is a saint. He does so much good for veterans and
the community in the area. And the manager and team of Home Depot are truly amazing people. It was incredible to think that so many people would take time out of their busy schedules for our family.” Lance Porubski spearheaded the operation once he found out through John Rivers Memorial VFW Post Commander Paul Gerhart of the family’s need. “It makes me feel proud to work for a company who allows our team to be involved in projects that honor the people who fight for our freedoms. We live the orange promise by providing solutions to a variety of needs, both big and small, for the families who sacrifice so much. It’s really a great way for me personally to show my thanks for all that they do’” Porubski said. The same night as this Operation Santa, the VFW distributed holiday meals to fifteen veteran families with food donated by the HD #4140 team. Porubski added that Home Depot #4140 first got involved with the VFW after providing materials to build storage caskets for Quakertown’s Hometown Heroes banners. Lance and his team were also involved with Quakertown Borough to spruce up the entrance to the Park at 4th before last summer’s Trace Adkins concert. Home Depot #4140 Store Manager Matt Parkes summed up the evening, “We are honored to be a part of helping our veterans. We feel it is our obligation as a company and store to give back to people who have selflessly given so much to us by protecting our company and keeping us safe. To encourage and inspire our associates to help others and get involved in the community is a true testimony to our company, our people, and core values.” Home Depot #4140 is just off Lehigh Street. in Allentown. The John Rivers Memorial VFW Post #11322 is located at 41 Belmont Avenue in Quakertown.
January 2020 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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Caleb’s Cocoa Café Raises $4000 to Aid Homeless Shelter 9 year old Caleb Byelich, proprietor of Caleb’s Cocoa Café, with the help of family, friends, and the community, has outdone himself this Christmas season with revenue topping $4015. The proceeds will benefit the Upper Bucks Code Blue Shelter on Broad Street in Quakertown. Last year, Byelich, a third grader at Neidig Elementary School, came up with the idea of opening a ‘pop up’ hot cocoa stand to help the homeless after he and his family witnessed firsthand the plight of homelessness on a trip to Baltimore, Maryland. His goal was to raise $100. In fact, he and his crew raised over $1700, far surpassing his goal and wildest dreams. Support for Caleb’s mission at his second annual Cocoa Café on December 22 was up 230% over last year, coming in at a hearty $4015. Alicia Byelich, Caleb’s mom, offered much
praise to the participants and patrons of this year’s event. “Thank you to everyone who came out to support Caleb’s hot cocoa stand raising money for the Upper Bucks Code Blue Homeless Shelter! We were overwhelmed by the number of people who came out; we live in a beautiful community! Thank you for supporting the shelter and Caleb’s mission to help raise money for it! A special thank you to Michelle’s Cakes and Pastry who donated many baked goods from her shop, Christopher Betz from Upper Bucks Free Press for the signs, and the Schmauders from C.R. Strunk Funeral Home for stopping by before the stand to encourage Caleb and start the day with a generous donation of $500! To all our many volunteers and to those who baked - thank you! To our awesome band - thank you! To the community - you all are awesome!”
Think Local. Buy Local. Love Local. Snowy Season Collectibles BY DR. LORI VERDERAME
“The problem with winter sports is that - follow me closely here - they generally take place in winter.” - Dave Barry
WOW! Here it is a new year. Last year had its share of problems. My human said it is our turn in the barrel. I don’t see any barrels so I am not sure what that means. We were recovering from the flood of the year before and dealing with township issues all year. Then in October my dog brother Grady became a diabetic and within a week went blind. Grady is the Therapy dog. You may have seen him around town. This is his picture. He won 2nd place in the pet Parade at Autumn Alive. My human had Grady’s cataracts removed and he is now on the mend. We are hoping he will be back to work spreading cheer soon. (He still is wearing a plastic cone on his head) Here’s to hoping we don’t get any surprises like these in the coming year. I know we need a new roof but I am hoping that is it.
It’s funny but everyone seems to have a different calendar when it comes to decorating for the season. Some stores start decorating for the holidays in mid-October while others wait until the chilly winds of early December arrive. Whether winter decorations brighten your home as early as Halloween or linger through Super Bowl Sunday, decking the halls is a tried and true seasonal favorite. With guests coming and going as we usher out the old and ring in the new year, the age-old question of when to deck and when to deinstall the holiday wreaths, ornaments, figurines, etc. is one of personal preference. Snow season collectibles—nativity sets, Christmas trees, Hanukkah menorahs, wreaths, garlands, sleigh bells—all help make the season cheery and bright. Byers Choice Ltd. Carolers Snowy season collectibles are popular and speak to our image of the holidays. Byers Choice Ltd. carolers, a Bucks County, Pennsylvania mainstay and international favorite, are popular collectibles featuring moveable figurines on solid bases with hand painted clay heads demonstrating a singing caroler. Each caroler is hand made by a skilled artisan at the Byers Choice Ltd. workshop in Chalfont, PA and visitors can watch them being produced on the shop floor during a self-guided tour of Byers Choice Ltd. They are produced and marketed by theme –carolers by the sea, Charles Dickens’ characters, American patriots, etc.--relating to the Christmas holiday and are widely collected throughout the year. It is widely believed that collectible snowmen were first catapulted into the public eye in the early 1950s, well into the post-war period in America. Today, many folks have taken snowman collecting to a new level. Arguably, the most famous snowmen of all time is Frosty the Snowman. This snowman was actually first introduced as a song before becoming the pop culture icon that we all know and love. The wintery themed novelty song was produced by Steve Rollins and Jack Nelson and recorded by cowboy crooner, Gene Autry, in 1950. Trying to capture the success of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, a recording that sold 2 million copies, Autry recorded the quintessential snowman’s theme song. Related cartoons and children’s books about Frosty the Snowman soon followed. In 1954, the UPA studios made Frosty the Snowman the central character of a 3-minute animated short film. By 1969, the animation company of Rankin/Bass produced a half hour TV special featuring Frosty the Snowman and the unmistakable voices of Jimmy Durante and Jackie Vernon. The rest of this snowman celebrity story is corncob pipe history.
Shakeable Snow Globes Snow artistry has taken on many forms when it comes to winter collectibles including the ever-popular snow globe. Snow globes, snow domes, or as the German’s call them, schneekugeln were first introduced in France during the early 1800s as a successor to the hand-blown glass paperweight. At the 1889 International Exposition in Paris, the snow globe got worldwide attention as a souvenir. This world’s fair snow globe featured a model of the newly built Eiffel Tower designed by Gustave Eiffel inside. Initially, snow globes consisted of a heavy lead glass dome that was placed over a ceramic tableau. Central European artisans blew glass globes to protect religious relics and clockwork movements started to export their glassware to the growing snow globe industry. The globes were filled with water and then sealed. Shaking the globe made the snow inside move within the globe from all directions as if demonstrating a windy blizzard. The snow inside the snow globe was created with bone chips, porcelain pieces, or non-soluble soap flakes. More recently, the snow inside a typical snow globe is produced from tiny pieces of white plastic and enhanced with distilled water and glycerin to make the water denser and snow appear to realistically move within the globe atmosphere. In the 1940s, snow globes were produced as advertising paperweights and as travel souvenirs and keepsakes of vacations. In the Victorian era, the British called the collectible tableaus “snowstorms” as they gained popularity from circa 1890 to 1901. Despite their European beginnings, snow globes were mass-produced in the U.S. thanks to Pittsburgh, PA native, Joseph Garajha. The first mass-production patent for snow globes featured Garajha’s new base which allowed the globe to be screwed into it like a light bulb. Today, snow globes are traded and collected worldwide. Today, the specialty annual snow globes featuring products and characters from companies like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Disney are big gifts with collectors. These collectible themed snow globes find themselves on holiday shopping lists worldwide and some range in value from $500 to $5,000 at auction. Whether your winter is filled with days building your own Frosty on the front lawn or sipping hot cocoa by the fire, snowy season collectibles are fine additions to your home and will surely satisfy your need to decorate with a seasonal flair. Dr. Lori Verderame is the award-winning Ph.D. antiques appraiser on History channel’s #1 hit show, The Curse of Oak Island and weekdays on the Doctor and the Diva. Dr. Lori presents her Antiques Appraisal Comedy Show to audiences nationwide. Visit DrLoriV.com/ events or call (888) 431-1010.
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2020
David E. Patterson, 52 of Perkasie formerly of Quakertown died Tuesday December 10, 2019 in his home. He was the husband of Christy (Rudisill) Patterson. They celebrated their 22nd wedding anniversary on November 8, 2019. Born in Brooklyn, NY he was the son of the late Phillip and Barbara (Katz) Patterson. He was an Assistant Vice President, Security Engineer for Wells Fargo Bank for over 27 years. He was an active member of Christ Community Bible Church in Perkasie, where he served as head of the missions ministry including taking a missions trip to Italy. He also served on the web site ministry, worship team and helped with the VBS program. David enjoyed all sports especially football, taking trips and his family. In addition to his wife he is survived by a daughter Rachel at home, a sister Andrea Bean and husband Paul of Quakertown, sister in law Kathy Cappiello and husband Robert of Newark, DE a niece Riley and three nephews Aaron, Paul and Timothy. Arrangements in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk. com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the church missions fund at the above address, or to the Upper Bucks SPCA 60 Reservoir Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951. Andrea V. Wynkoop, 75 of Trumbauersville died Thursday December 12, 2019 in St. Luke’s University Hospital, Bethlehem. She was the wife of the late Thomas G. Wynkoop. Born in Quakertown, she was the daughter of the late Webster and Tess (Hrycko) Nase. Before her retirement she was a teller for First Niagara Bank and the former Harleysville National Bank. She was very active in community service and volunteered with many groups including the Trumbauersville Lions Club. She also was a member of the North Penn Gun Club. Andrea enjoyed traveling with her late husband and just being with family and friends. She was a very active member of Christ Church of the United Church of Christ in Trumbauersville, where she was also a former consistory member. She is survived by two sons Brian S. and Gregory T. A sister Joann H. Bresel and hus-
~Obituaries~
band Ron and two grandchildren Alison and Mary. She will also be missed by extended family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Christ Church U. C. C. PO Box 516 Trumbauersville PA 18970 or to the Trumbauersville Lions Club P.O. Box 33 Trumbauersville PA 18970. (www.crstrunk.com)
Virginia E. Proctor, 77, of Quakertown died December 19, 2019 in her home. She was the wife of the late Thomas R. Proctor. Born in Abington, PA she was the daughter of the late Robert Schaffer & Virginia McCormick, and the step daughter of the late Warren McCormick. She enjoyed going to the Casinos. She also enjoyed going to Dorney Park with Bumps #GGW and Seaside Heights and Wildwood New Jersey. She is survived by a daughter Nicole Proctor, two sisters Barbie Mangro-Kane, and Sue “UU” Howeson. One granddaughter Julia “Bumps” Houchins. Predeceased by a son Richard Proctor and a sister Lynnie Kelcy. Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Lehigh Valley Hospice 2166 S. 12th St. Allentown, PA 18103. Richard Charles Menzak, Jr., 55 of Quakertown formerly of Warminster died Thursday December 19, 2019 in his home. He was the husband of Nora Ellen (Donahue) Menzak. They celebrated thirty four years of marriage on May 3, 2019. Born in Philadelphia he was the son of the late Richard Charles and Dorothy (Harrell) Menzak. He was last employed as a technician for Draeger Medical. He was a member of St. Isidore’s Catholic Church and a 4th degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus. In addition to his wife he is survived by a son Adam R. (Janet) and a daughter Sarah E. (Cameron) a granddaughter Destiny N., three brothers Greg S. (Monica), Brian M. (Jill) and
Doug M. (Mary). Also his Aunt Carol who was like a mother to him. A memorial service will be held on Saturday January 4, 2020 at 2:30 p.m. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 West Broad St. Quakertown PA 18951. Call from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society (Lehigh Valley Unit) 3893 Adler Place Bethlehem PA 18017 or to the American Diabetes Foundation, Suite 100, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004.
Joseph T. Breeswine, 80, of Quakertown died December 19, 2019 in Harborview Rehab & Care Center in Lansdale. Born in Philadelphia, PA he was the son of the late Warren & Patricia (Donaghy) Breeswine. He was a Quality Control Manager for Medcomp, Inc. in Harleysville before retirement. He enjoyed flea markets and collecting antiques. He is survived by a daughter Angela M. Breeswine, Six siblings David J. (Carole), Patricia M. Brack, Warren R. (Hattie), Mary E. Slotter (Michael), Thomas D., & Kathleen M. Reichenbach (Robert). One grandson Brandon T. Breeswine. Predeceased by a son Bradlee J., a granddaughter Megan Lee Onuschak, and a brother John J. (www.crstrunk.com) Patricia C. Miller Fulmer, age 81, of Milford Square, Pennsylvania, passed away on Friday December 20, 2019 at Independence Court retirement home in Quakertown. She was the spouse of Donald W. Fulmer who died in 1997 and with whom she shared 40 years of marriage. Born in Quakertown, PA she was a daughter of the late Harley Miller Sr. and the late Mary Foulke Miller.Patricia graduated from Quakertown High School, class of 1956. She was the Supervisor while working for AEL Colmar and then Morgan Advanced Ceramics in Allentown, PA, retiring in 2007. Survivors include one son, Drew Fulmer and his fiance Mindi Fegely of Quakertown, PA; three daughters, Jane Bengier and her husband Paul of Jim Thorpe, PA; Jill Buehrle and her husband David of Coopersburg, PA; and Donna Buehrle and her husband Kenneth of Quakertown, PA; four brothers, Harley Miller and his wife Gi of Coopersburg, PA, Kenneth Miller and his wife Brenda of Bethlehem, PA, Ronald Miller and his wife
Jeanette of Trumbauersville, PA and Mark Miller and his wife Linda of Doylestown, PA; one sister, Lynn Broomfield of Flowood, MS; seven grandchildren, Robert, Jadd, Rachael, Gabrianna, Shaina, Brooke and Anna and eight great-grandchildren, Nathan, Ian, Ava, Joey, Cooper, Cayson, Colton and Jack. You are invited to visit with Patricia’s family and friends from 10-11 AM Saturday January 4, 2020 at Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. (215-536-3343) 135 W. Pumping Station Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951. Her memorial service will follow at 11 AM. Interment will be held in Quakertown, Union Cemetery. Contributions in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22478 Oklahoma City, OK 73123 or online at donate3.cancer.org.
Frank Jacob Binder, 70, of Coopersburg died December 23, 2019 in St. Luke’s University Hospital, Bethlehem. Born in Philadelphia, PA he was the son of the late Frank & Lucia Mary (Marek) Binder. He was a member of English Sport Car Clubs and also served as a judge at various car shows. He enjoyed collecting trains and antique toys. He also enjoyed karate and was an avid reader. He was a U.S. Army Veteran serving during the Vietnam War. Frank is survived by a sister Marie C. Feldi. Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. Charles V. Kline, 83 of Sellersville died peacefully surrounded by his family on December 28, 2019 in his home. He was the loving husband of Lorraine (Uhrich) Kline. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary last February. Born in Red Hill he was the son of the late Charles and Beulah (Erb) Kline. After 40 years of service he retired as a supervisor from Perkasie Industries. Charles enjoyed hunting and fishing and loved spending time with his dogs. In addition to being a loving husband, he was the loving father of Kathleen D. Kline (Jim Swinney) and Kenneth C. Kline (Debbie) and a loving grandfather to Katrina Cruz and Kenneth Kline. He also was a loving great grandfather to three great grandchildren. Services were held Thursday January 2, 2020 in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown PA 18951.
American Legion Post 242 January 2020 Update BY DICK HELM The year 2019 was a busy year and we want to thank you for your support at our various public programs including Memorial Day, Patriots Day (Sept 11), and Veterans Day. We had other programs and home association meals that were also meaningful, not to fail the various youth programs we sponsored. Most of all we are pleased that we could honor those at Special Honors that we gave at graveside services and that we could help in time of need, our Veterans. The most meaningful service that I took part in only lasted minutes for two successive evenings. Those were the “Mitting Tree Services” I went to with my wife. We hung 18-20 blank dog tags each night to remember the veterans that take their life daily who suffer from injuries not of the body but of the physique. Yes, many gave their life for their country in combat situations, some suffered physical wounds, but the Mitting Tree dog tag services were pre-
sented to call our attention to those who suffer from the mental wounds of warfare. This is where you can help us by calling our chaplain Pastor David Ellis at 215-541-4458 if you need help or if you see signs that someone you know might need help to prevent another casualty. Pastor Ellis can refer that veteran to the proper person for help. That is why the Mitting Tree Services were so meaningful to me because these wounds might fester for decades in the minds of those we care about who returned to civilian life. The year 2020 will have us sharing the services mentioned in the 1st paragraph and we encourage you to once again or for the first time to attend these services. I was encouraged to see the increased attendance in 2019. Let these important services honoring our veterans continue to grow. We also encourage you to vote in this important election year. The American Legion members served to keep the Voting Right for all citizens; yes some even gave their all for that Right. Please take time out to exercise that right.
January 2020 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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
Reiss Insurance Agency - Licensed Property Casualty Insurance Producer wanted. Pay and benefits based on experience. Please contact Virginia Reiss at 215-536-5600 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. Edible Arrangements of Doylestown is NOW HIRING seasonal Fruit Designers to help share the love of Valentine’s Day. You must be available Wednesday Feb 12th through Friday, Feb 14th. Send resume to EADoylestownJobs@gmail.com
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2020
QCSD Board Reorganizes, Welcomes Two New Members The Quakertown Community School Board voted in a new leadership team and welcomed two new members at its December 5th reorganization meeting. The Board elected Kaylyn Mitchell president and Ron Jackson vice president. “I want to thank my colleagues for having confidence in me and voting for me as president and I look forward to serving our community,” Mrs. Mitchell said. “And congratulations to Ron for vice president.” Brian Reimers and Chris Spear were sworn in as new Board members by Heidi Johnson,
secretary to the superintendent. They replace former Board President Steaven Klein and Robert Diliberto, who did not seek re-election. Mr. Reimers and Mr. Spear were elected to the Board in the November 5th Municipal Election, along with incumbents Mr. Jackson, Dwight Anderson and Jonathan Kern. At the November 14th meeting, Mr. Anderson received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Pennsylvania School Boards Association for his eight years of service. Mr. Klein presented the certificate to him.
New Years’ Resolution:
Get Your Estate Plan Squared Away! BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ. If there is one thing in life that is guaranteed, it’s that nothing is guaranteed. So stop waiting for the perfect time to speak with an attorney about your estate plan! That perfect time may never come. If you have assets, you need an estate plan. It is that simple. Also, all major life changes, such as divorce, the birth or death of a child or the receipt of an inheritance, should be accompanied with a new estate plan tailored to the current circumstances and goals. The one piece of homework you may want to undertake prior to speaking with an estate planning attorney is determining what your goals are. Are you concerned about tax savings, assets protection, Medicaid planning, incapacity/illness planning or do you simply want to make sure that your property passes to whom you choose? Or are you concerned with all of the above? Once you have established
(top) Newly elected members to the Quakertown Community School District Board of Directors, Brian Reimers and Chris Spear (bottom) Kaylyn Mitchell, Board President; and Ron Jackson, Vice President
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
Chew onyellingThis! at them “no, no, no” then wait for them
Ignoring unwanted behavior is very confusing for dog owners. I am not giving you permission to ignore the dog when he chews on inappropriate things like rocks, dirty underwear, or your furniture. I want to be very clear how to help your dog learn what is appropriate to chew on and what is not. Above all else I want your dog to be safe. Your most powerful tool for changing a dog’s behavior is using positive reinforcement. The reward makes him more likely to repeat the behavior again. Reinforcement is not all about treats. Giving the dog feedback by giving praise is reinforcement. You are letting the dog know he has made the right decision on what is appropriate to chew. Always pay attention to your dog when your dog is being good. Reward pottying outside versus punishing for pottying inside. Reward sitting versus punishing jumping. Out –of- date compulsion trainers may have you yank on a prong or choke collar, throw a can filled with pennies, or even scream and yell at your dog. Attempting the use of violence and intimidation may stop the unwanted behavior, but falls short of providing the information that corrects the unwanted behavior. Did you ever try to teach a child how to ride a bike by
to somehow figure it out how to do it right? Without feedback how is your dog going to make better decisions? Force free trainers do administer corrections, but it is how we administer them. We do it proactively through management, not intimidation. Management is simply not giving the dog the opportunity to get in trouble in the first place, so we have don’t have to be reactive, but hey poop happens! The 3 R’s Remove, Redirect and Reinforce Remove: Remove the dog from the environment or things in the environment. Dog eating your underwear? Remove the dog to another room or better yet put your underwear where he cannot get it. Redirect: Give the dog something else to do. Having the dog play fetch is incompatible with swallowing rocks or chewing on your shoe laces. Reinforcement: Reinforce by praising the dog for chewing on his toys, instead of yelling at the dog for chewing on your furniture or your pant leg. It’s easier to teach a dog what to chew on then what not to chew on! Submitted by Marion C. O’Neil CPDT-KA, CTDI, owner and instructor for Molasses Creek Dog Training, LLC Quakertown www.molassescreekdogtraining.com
what your goals are, an experienced estate planning attorney can put together an estate plan that will accomplish or aid your goals. Keep in mind that while everyone should have an estate plan, everyone’s estate plan will not be identical. Some may be properly prepared with just a will, while others may require a trust, will, power of attorney, life estate deed, etc. But in any case, put aside some time to address these now. Don’t’ let another year go by without getting your estate plan squared away. Happy Holidays everyone and here is to making 2020 the best one yet! 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) 227-9138. To learn more, visit his website at www.fravel-law.com
Nature’s Balance
As I look out my window by my computer, I see far fewer Cardinals this year. We put the normal birdfeeder Shepherd’s Hook poles out a few weeks back while the ground was soft and went to the farm store for our normal bird seed/sunflower seed purchase. After hanging our two hand crafted wooden feeders, our ceramic feeder with little niches for the birds to feed from, and the two medal feeders similar; we were ready to go. After dumping the 50 pounds of sunflower seeds in unison with the 20 pounds of regular Birdseed mix carefully in a mix in our large galvanized can on the porch we filled up all five units. It usually takes about a week for the birds to recognize that the chow line is set up at the Helm’s and we are not overwhelmed during that time with birds. This year it is almost a month and we still are not seeing the birds as we did in the past and we had some brutal cold nights! Now we do see the sparrows and our one special Chic-aDee is back with us. But I have only seen about three cardinals. By this time other years I would have to refill the feeders almost daily; taking the feed from the large garbage can out to the feeding station in a large tin pretzel can. I then would have to refill the pretzel can with feed to transport out to the feeders about every three days. In three weeks I have only refilled that pretzel can ONE time. Where are my cardinals? Have they gone the way of the blue jays that we now see few of anymore. The blue jays (a member of the crow family) were such pests at the feeder that we would have to chase them away up to about 4 years ago. Now we hardly see or hear them. Many talk of climate change affecting such things. In this case I can’t see that as a factor for such rapid decrease. So that quick and easy excuse does not apply. I do see an affect that is easier to apply; that is The Balance of Nature. Blue Jays and Cardinals are very colorful birds and stand out because of that color. Sparrows and the speedy flying doves are drabber in color and blend in with the barren trees they take cover in. Yes, I do see many more hawks and this year we have seen quite a few Bald Eagles as we drive to Quakertown from our home here in Milford. As we drive from our wonderful remaining rural setting in this corner of Milford Township we see Red and occasionally Grey Fox far more times than we saw in the past. We even heard of someone hearing the erie cry of a Fischer just outside of our area within the year. Back in the day when we had pheasants in our area in large portions; we were a farm community. Where the hospital and LifeQuest are now located, we would hunt pheasants and rabbits after school let out when we could legally hunt by ourselves and were usually
successful in that one hour. After pheasant season my friend Larry Schreier and I would go crow hunting on many Saturday afternoons. Crows would have their young at the time the Pheasants were nesting and would find and feed on the pheasant eggs for their young, The Wimmer Boys would likewise go out to either hunt or trap the foxes. This was one way that the farm mentality of the time kept things “In Check.” Due to over harvest of birds of prey such as the slaughtering of birds of prey at Hawk Mountain, the change of farm land into fields of multi-floral (wild roses) (supposedly introduced by a state agency for wildlife feeding and now has overwhelmed us), and of course, our farms turning into housing developments; Pheasants have totally disappeared as have the crows that ate their eggs. Mysteriously, coyotes have appeared and grown rapidly in numbers in Pennsylvania the past decade or so and the state says they came on their own. Fischer’s were introduced to climb up trees to rid the mountain areas of Porcupines. Turkey’s also roost in trees. We have to watch out for their decline. Climate Change quickly enters the conversation on anything with nature. This article is not on Climate Change as it is both very sensitive as an argument both scientifically and politically and I refuse to get involved in this discussion. It is not, in my opinion climate change that is robbing me of seeing the songbirds, pheasants, rabbits, etc. It is change of habitat, being extreme in regulation changes; studies made rapidly to introduce species, and basically interference by us in wanting to do good for nature. Speaking of Crow Hunts; back then they would have crow hunts in Berks County that literally killed thousands were taken away in trucks on designated weekends at a roosting area. That was wrong! Just recently I read of studies to be made of the declining quality and depth of the streams feeding the rivers of our area. If it were Nature’s change they would be up as we have been deluged by rain in the past two years. It is the advent of housing and the water table being reduced because of it. I have never seen the Unami or Tohickon so low in my youth as I see them today and we had some bad droughts in the 50’s. It is time we look at ourselves as the culprits by us changing Nature’s Balance into the “the Balance of Humans.” By not using common sense as our farming forefathers did to help control our disturbance of nature to both our benefit and nature’s benefit in a reasonable and over reactive way, we missed the mark. I hope somehow that others have also looked out their window and have seen the decline of these wonderful songbirds and a viable common sense solution is introduced without outside influence by groups with their own agenda! Dick Helm is a regular contributor. He can be reached at rbh9@verizon.net
January 2020 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
QNB Bank Opens New Upper Perkiomen Valley Office QNB Bank officially opened the doors of its new Upper Perkiomen Valley Office on Monday, December 9th. Located at 410 Pottstown Avenue, the new branch is right next to where QNB’s old Pennsburg Office used to reside in the Pennsburg Square Shopping Center. The Upper Perkiomen Valley Office offers full-service retail banking and features convenient services including full cash handling via automated cash recyclers, a coin machine, instant issue check cards, and a 24-hour ATM and night depository. The new branch also features more space, better park-
ing, and improved functionality. The Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for QNB’s new Upper Perkiomen Valley Office is scheduled for Wednesday, January 29th. QNB is a full-service community bank that has provided exceptional personalized banking services to individuals and businesses since 1877. With assets of approximately $1.2 billion, QNB currently operates twelve branches in Bucks, Montgomery and Lehigh Counties. More information about QNB is available at QNBbank.com.
Charles Leitch Weathers the Blizzard of ‘88
It was a blustery, wintry evening. I and several others were at the Foulke House Museum on Main Street diligently working toward the Quakertown Historical Society’s goal to re-organize, carefully catalogue and digitally preserve the many thousands of artifacts, photographs and printed material that’s been donated over the years. It’s an important but enormous and tedious task. I’d just finished putting five years of Quakertown Free Press issues into chronological order and, before I moved on to the next box full of stuff, I glanced out the window to ease my bleary eyes. We were having an intense snow squall. Coincidentally, the next item I inventoried was a narrative that Charles Thomas Leitch (1865-1950), wrote, describing his experience during the Blizzard of 1888. Charles T. Leitch was born in Hilltown on May 11, 1865, to Thomas and Catherine (Walp) Leitch, but moved to Quakertown in 1886 as a Registered Pharmacist. He established a drugstore at the corner of Main and Broad Streets in the borough where successfully conducted business until his retirement in 1919. Charles was a bachelor when he began his career and, in 1888, he was ‘seeing’ a woman in Bethlehem. Charles tells us: “Sunday, March 17, 1888, was a sunshiny and balmy day.” He left Quakertown for Bethlehem on the 3 P.M. train and attended church services with “a lady friend”. When they came out of church it was just drizzling but, “by 10 o’clock there was a gale blowing” and it was snowing. Honorably, he left his lady friend’s house at about 10:30 P.M. He was shivering and weather beaten by the time he got to the hotel “at Broad and Main Streets in Bethlehem” where he spent the night. By the next morning, Monday, March 18, the gale still blew, it was bitterly cold and the snowfall had intensified. Drifts were rapidly accumulating. Charles “wended [his] way to the [train] station.” He was “glad to reach the old covered bridge” where he huddled for a while, getting some protection from the icy wind and driven snow. When he finally arrived at the station he “was told there were no trains running today.” The station was “too cold for comfort” so Charles “took shelter” at the nearby Triangle Hotel and anxiously bided his time. When he saw railroad cars being “shifted” he made his way back to the station and was informed that “they were going to start a train shortly but could not promise how far it would go.” Charles bravely boarded and, after a disconcerting ride, “reached our town safely.” The blizzard was even worse in Upper
Bucks. As Charles left his train, he saw “Mr. Richard Johnson and two other men (who were Jurymen),” boarding the Doylestown train. Snowdrifts across the Richland farmland were already huge, and growing. After leaving the Quakertown Station the train bogged down and stalled before reaching the Penn Ridge tunnel. Mr. Johnson and the other passengers had to trudge home across the frigid, snow-blown fields. Charles’ trek from Front Street to his store at Main and Broad was far from an enjoyable hike. He finally got home at about noon and, presumably, stoked up the coal stove and sat out the rest of the memorable storm. In addition to providing pharmacological services for decades and giving us a brief glimpse of winter travails 130 years ago, Charles Leitch contributed much more to the Quakertown Community. At Christmas time in 1918 when most people were celebrating the end of The Great War, Charles and his wife Mayme received notice that their soldier, and only son, C. [Charles] Russell Leitch, had succumbed to bronchial pneumonia on December 13th. He was the very last soul Quakertown contributed to the nightmare we call the First World War. Charles’s previous affiliations are obscure but, in 1924 he joined the Quakertown Methodist Church and became a “faithful member and regular attendant.” Charles loved music and donated the church organ in memory of his wife, who died in 1934, and his veteran son. Still interested in the ‘lady friends’ at age 81, Charles T. Leitch “happily united in marriage” with Emma E. Boyce on June 4, 1946. Perhaps remembering that horrible blizzard in 1888, Charles spent the last few years of his life with Emma at the Hotel Cordova in St. Petersburg, Florida. After a long illness, he died there on April 21, 1950. In memory of Charles, Emma donated an electronic Carillon Bells system to the Quakertown Methodist Church. The dedication was a big event. “The ‘Bells’ are not placed in the organ, but in a metal box in the room below and electric wires carry the sound to the speaker which is placed in the organ,” or “to the outside producer, which is on the roof,” we’re told. This story is but a tiny snapshot of Quakertown’s rich, 300 plus year history which is built upon and ‘fleshed out by’ the lives of Real People. We learn from those people’s experiences. Two lessons that are still valid today: Be prepared, a paralyzing storm may arrive unexpectedly; and, Use our modern medical system. Get your pneumonia shot. Who knows what Russell Leitch might have accomplished had he survived not only the hell of war, but the illness that took his life? Jack Schick is a long time Quakertown
area resident and regular contributor here at
UBFP. Reach him at sjckschc@aol.com
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2020
St. Isidore School Student Concert
Pearl S. Buck Int’l Names Winning Festival of Trees Displays St. Isidore School Pre-K class (age 4) helped start the Christmas season with a concert for their family and friends. The entire school (preSchool through grade 8) spread the cheer with performances that reminded us of the 12 signs of Christmas. submitted photo
General Grant Visits Woman’s Club
“First Frost
Pearl S. Buck International has announced the winning entries from its very successful Festival of Trees even that ran from mid-November through December. The best overall display was done by Soroptimist International of Indian Rock (top) with Marie Weaverling Design taking second place. The best nonprofit organization display came from Stray Cat Blues (left) with Daughters of the American Revolution Bucks County Chapter taking second place. The best business display was made by Bedminster Handmade (right) with Domani Design coming in second. submitted photos
Kenneth Serfass portrayed Lt. General Ulysses S. Grant on Wednesday night, September 18, 2019 at the Michener Library. 115 local history fans watched Mr. Serfass’ authentic impersonation of Grant at the surrender of General Robert E. Lee at Appomattox Court House, Virginia in April, 1865. In photo: Joan Lampart,, Woman’s Club of Quakertown Program Committee Cochair, Kenneth Serfass, and Noreen Spindler, President of the Woman’s Club of Quakertown. photo by beth anderson
photo by erin
Want to see your photos featured on this page? Ema with a caption to photos@ubfp.org for considerat
Downtown Quakertown Annu
January 2020 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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Horsin’ Around 4H Club Caroling
Members of Horsin’ Around 4H Club brightened the spirits of Rockhill Community residents with Christmas carols in December. submitted photo
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n fenstermacher
ail them tion!
Students Perform at Craft Show
QCHS Varsity Singers at State Capitol
The Trumbauersville and Richland Elementary School choruses entertained a packed house at QMPO’s annual craft show at Quakertown High School. submitted photo
QCO Christmas Angels Senator Bob Mensch (R-24) was pleased to welcome students from Quakertown Community High School Varsity Singers during their visit to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. They participated in a Holiday Concert and also performed in Governor Wolf’s office.. submitted photo
ual Tree Lighting
photos by michele buono
Quakertown Community Outreach’s 2019 Christmas Angels Program, along with many local businesses and individual sponsors, was able to provide over 1000 gifts to 320 children within the Quakertown Community School District this year, which set a new record! This program would not be possible without the donations of the community and QCO thanks you all for your generous support. pictured: Michelle Cosgrove of Synergis, and QCO Christmas Angels Program Coordinator Stacey Moises, and QCO Angel Kaylyn Mitchell. submitted photo
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2020
2020 - The Age of Change Happy New Year! Here we are in a new decade – 2020. One hundred years ago, it was called “The Roaring Twenties.” I’ve been thinking of an appropriate phrase for this new 21st Century decade and I have come up with nothing. But then again, as I view the culture, the fashion, the music, the political change, the economy, and the social tension, it appears that things have changed, but basically, they have remained the same. Things from the 1920s have been revisited in some manner over the past ten decades, and as we enter this new decade there are strong resemblances between 1920 and 2020. As we leave the past and enter into the present, there are some things well worth remembering, but others need to be put to rest; as my mother used to say, “That’s water under the bridge.” It is time to open our minds to new possibilities, new strategies, and new opportunities. Rather than focusing on all the things we did not accomplish in the previous year we need to look forward to a new beginning. Every circumstance in our lives is a learning experience. When we encounter negative experiences, we learn and move on in a new direction. When the experience is positive, we grasp the results and continue in that direction. We pass up a lot of opportunities that are placed before us because they are not packaged in pretty, foiled boxes with big red bows as we had expected. It’s those opportunities that we need to grasp and develop into our visions and aspirations. Maybe we need to ask ourselves
some direct, hard to answer questions. Am I sure of who I really want to be as a person? If not, what do I need to accomplish to get to that place of satisfaction? When can I expect the results I am looking for, and are they realistic results? Where will I find a support system to lead me along the way? Sometimes as adults, even older adults, we get lost as we tread the path of life. My mother used to say, “Life gets in the way.” When that occurs, we must refocus, evaluate what has happened, and determine how to make it back to the important things in our lives. I’ve had to do that many times and what I learned is that the plans that I had for my life were not always God’s plans for my life. I learned that I could do a rather decent job of damaging my selfmade plans because I did not have a definite path of direction. What worked and continues to work for me is a Scripture verse I learned as a young child. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” Proverbs 3:5-6 Remember the things you hold close to your heart, and no matter how long or short the list may be, it must begin with God at the top. My prayer for all my readers who believe is for you is to be blessed abundantly in this new decade. Happy 2020. Jacque Holliday is a long time freelance contributor to UBFP. She always welcomes your comments via email at jacque@ubfp.org
January 2020 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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2019 Chevy Bison
was the 3.6-liter V6 with 308-hp and 275 lb/ft of torque, and a 2.8-liter I-4 diesel with 186hp and a whopping 369 lb/ft of torque. The 3.6L comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission while the 2.8L diesel gets a 6-speed auto. With the 3.6L, it was independently tested at 7.0 seconds for 0-60, which isn’t too shabby for a pickup with a curb weight of 4,745 pounds and a GVWR of 6,000 pounds. The combination of engine and trans carries an EPA estimated 16 city, 18-highway mpg fuel economy rating. Far from miserly, but consider what it does, where it can go and tow (5,000 lbs.) What’s nice about it, and despite its’ off-road capability, it’s a comfy daily driver, albeit with a bit of tire hum with its large, deep treaded tires.
Incidentally, for you serious off-roaders, an OEM snorkel, for dusty roads and deep water, can be attached, but Chevy may be offering one as well. Those traits, along with a stiffer suspension gives Bison a taut, but controllable ride with positive handling. Bison’s interior is upscale with leather, heated/cooled front seats, heated steering wheel and an 8-inch touchscreen with a host of apps including Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that serves the rearview camera, satellite radio and has 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot connectivity. And, a convenient wireless smartphone charger is situated in front of the console box. The touchscreen also serves the Hitch Guidance System that helps the driver align the receiver hitch to a trailer. Like Chevy’s full-size Silverado 4WD pickups, Bison’s 4WD system consists of 2H, Auto, 4H and 4L gearing. The Auto mode is especially nice on rainy days or when light
Happy 2020!
snow covers the roadways. As we tested the Crew Cab, step-in was 25 inches or 20.5 to the rock rails on either side. The rear seatbacks flip down on the bottoms for flat storage and they split and fold up against the bulkhead exposing a handy full-width bin for small items and a larger inside storage area. On Bison’s exterior, the front bumper is winch-ready and attaches to tubular wraparound bumpers to protect the trucks’ sides and bumpers when negotiating tight, brushy and rocky trails. Chevy also included a tailgate that can be locked/unlocked via the key fob. With an extremely long list of standard convenience items and safety items that includes a trailer brake controller, Bison’s base price comes in at $42,900. Add to that the ZR2 Bison Package ($5,750) and delivery ($1,095) and the bottom line reflected $46,745. Colorado ZR2 Bison comes with a 3 year/36K mile bumper-bumper warranty and 5/60K powertrain coverage. Plus, the first oil change, tire rotation and multi-point inspection is included. If you’re into off-roading be it for rock hopping, outback camping, fishing or hunting, but also need a sensible daily driver, check out Chevy’s Bison. It’s one especially capable and striking hauler. 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.
“It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it.” - John Burroughs
I love the sound of 2020!!! It doesn’t seem possible that it will be 2020. Seriously I remember when it was the year 2000 and all the hype that happened then. It doesn’t seem real that that was 20 years ago. So, with this very cool number (I have a thing about numbers so this is very cool to me), maybe this year will bring double the happiness I believe most of us are seeking in our lives. Most people I talk to look forward to starting a new year. They feel as though they could all the past things that have happened that they didn’t like or didn’t work for them and get to start over. Like a “do over!!” Who doesn’t like a do over??? I love the idea of it. A fresh start. An opportunity for renewal and forgiveness. A new venture of self-discovery. A renewed outlook on your life. An awareness of new possibilities. A longing to reconnect. A new found belief of change. A desire to explore what has been missing in your life. An understanding that setting goals will help us achieve whatever it is that we are seeking in our lives. Some people do not like to set goals; however, I truly believe it gets you grounded for the new year, even if it just for 30 days. Sometimes it is very important to create a “shift” in our life in regards to our thinking and eventually our attitude and behavior. What I mean by this is the actual thought that you want to change some things in your life creates an awareness in your day to day activities. You will become more mindful about what you are doing and will ask yourself, “is this in align with what I want for myself and my life this year?” You may choose in that moment to change an old behavior and incorporate a new one in its place. Or you may choose to say, “Not Today!!” which is still okay in the scheme of things.
Making long term changes takes a deep, deep commitment, almost like it has been a longing desire ,”that THIS has to change in my life I cannot continue to do this attitude or behavior because I just don’t like it anymore it is causing me more pain and grief than I want to deal with anymore.” And BAM you start to move towards this CHANGE you have wanted for such a long time. Making short term changes can be more manageable and puts less pressure on you to have to change a possible lifestyle. If you have several things that you want to work on and they are all kind of big, my suggestion is to write them down and not in any specific order. Then choose the top three by looking at the list and saying, “Is this more important than this one? And so on?” Keep comparing each one until you become clear about these are the top three for me. You will probably surprise yourself about which three become the top ones and actually feel better that okay I can handle this right now. Sometimes the really big ones need to wait until you can conquer the smaller ones. When you accomplish these then maybe in six months you can revisit this list and say okay, I will choose one of the big ones and begin that process. My wish for all of you this year is that you will be kind to yourself, that you will love or like yourself a little more, that you will be true to yourself, that you will ask for help, that you will smile and love more, that you will find time just for you and above all that you cherish every moment and every day and say, “I am grateful to be alive! I am truly blessed!’’ 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.
BuckyGrams: polar, black, panda, teddy, grizzly, sloth, brown, gummy, yogi, smokey, pooh, koala Hidden Message: Good luck this year! Bucky Block: Happy New Year!
Chevrolet’s hot-selling Colorado midsize pickup went one up on the competition when they debuted their Colorado Bison ZR2 4WD pickup. This brawny pickup is not your ordinary midsize in that it’s intended for serious off-roads - if that’s your need to traverse or place to play. It differs from the standard Colorado as it comes with front and rear locking differentials for added traction that adds to its already capable 4WD off-road chops. But that’s not all. Chevy partnered with aftermarket 4x4 builder American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) based in Missoula, Montana, who designed and built five hot-stamped boron skid plates to protect the oil pan, fuel tank, transfer case and front/rear differentials. They add the ultimate protection with less weight than steel or aluminum, and are less prone to gouging according to Chevy. The Bison also differs from the regular Colorado in that it’s 3.5 inches wider and stands two inches taller shod with Goodyear Wrangler knobby and wide 265/65R17 (31inch high) tires for 8.9 inches of higher ground clearance. Its suspension too is enhanced with Multimatic Dynamic shocks for greater wheel travel and Bison sports larger wheel flares. Plus, it’s jazzed up with AEV exterior badging, floor mats and embossed headrests. Bison is offered in Extended Cab with 6’2” box and Crew Cab that we tested with a 5’2” box. As for powertrains, two are available. Tested
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2020
‘Shop With a Cop’ Brings Officers and Kids Together
BY MICHELE BUONO
Christmas elves come in all shapes and sizes, it just so happens that these wear badges. Officers from Quakertown and eleven other police departments, along with a well-organized team of over 40 volunteers, brought the holiday spirit out in full force on December 12 for Quakertown’s 9th annual Shop with a Cop program. Shop with a Cop is a national program pairing police officers with children to afford them a better Christmas. The program allows children to view police officers in a different atmosphere to promote positive relationships. This program is geared toward Quakertown School District children at the elementary levels. The children are faced with life challenges such as a parent losing a job, homelessness, military deployment, economic shortcomings,
Ongoing Events & Resources Jan 17 to Mar 8 - Girl Scout Cookie Sales every Fri/Sat/Sun at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd Jan 9, 16, 23, 30 - Eco Explorers 2pm-4pm for ages 6-12 yrs. Costs: $23/one class, $85/all 4 classes. ($65/mbrs) Register: peacevalleynaturecenter.org or 215-345-7860 Jan 14 (10-week Pre-K/Kindergarten Art Class) Tuesdays 1:30pm-2:30pm at St. Paul’s Lutheran, 5900 Applebutter Hill Rd, Coopersburg ($165 tuition/supplies) FMI: bluechurchart@gmail.com, Jan/Feb Wednesday Walkabouts 1:30pm at Peace Valley Nature Ctr in Doylestown. Join us as we discover nature. No dogs! Call if bad weather, 215-345-7860 or peacevalleynaturecenter.org Now to Feb 28 – “Woodland Snoopy Collection” Exhibit at Schwenkfelder Heritage Ctr, 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. FMI: schwenkfelder.com Now to May 1 – “Art of Frank Batson” Exhibit of watercolor and pen/ink drawings at Schwenkfeld Heritage Ctr, 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. Artwork will be for sale. FMI: schwenkfelder.com Now to May 1 – “Watch the Birdie: Our Fine Feathered Friends in Folk Art & Needlework” Exhibit at Schwenkfelder Heritage Ctr, 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. FMI: schwenkfelder. com FEAST Food Pantry at Christ’s Lutheran, 1 Luther Ln, Trumbauersville. Every Tues 11am-2pm, every Thur 6pm-8pm, 3rd Sat 11am-1pm. Use door right side at bottom of ramp. FMI: 215-536-3193 Free Dog Adoptions for Veterans & Active Military Members! Harley’s Haven Dog Rescue waives adoption fees. Ck website for more on Pups for Vets program. HarleysHavenDogRescue.com Morning storytime activities for infants thru age 6 at Samuel Pierce Library in Perkasie. Call 215-257-9718 for specific days, times & age group for your child. Allentown Art Museum is Free every Sunday, 12noon-4pm. Located at 31 N Fifth St, Allentown Hoagie Sales 2nd Mon of month (except July/August) Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 North Main St. Advance Orders Only due Wed. before. $5.75-$6.00, Order: Kim 215536-1998 or bucks58fire.com Petco Adoption Day, 1st Sat of month,
1pm-4pm. Petco, 242 N West End Blvd, Quakertown, lastchanceranch.org PetSmart Adoption Day, 2nd Sat of month, 11am-2pm. PetSmart, 620 N.West End Blvd, Quakertown, lastchanceranch.org Last Chance Ranch Volunteer Orientation/ Tour, 1st Sat of month, 10am-11am in front of Horse Barn, 9 Beck Rd, Quakertown, 215538-2510, lastchanceranch.org “Words Come Easy” Drop-in Writing Workshop at Haycock Community Ctr, 1014 Old Bethlehem Rd, Quakertown. (Tues 7-9pm) Cost/$10. More info at lyndagene@goblinfarm.net
Veteran Organizations & Activities
Forrest Lodge VFW, 2118 Old Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville. All veterans invited to join. Call Frank 215-679-7770 John Rivers Memorial VFW Post 11322 meets 1:30pm, 2nd Sun of month, 41 Belmont Ave, Quakertown, All Vets welcome, 215-529-0500 (bring DD 214 for proof eligibility) American Legion Post 210 meets 7:30pm, 1st Mon of month at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown. All Vets welcome, doylestownpost210.org Meghan’s Foundation Yoga Class for Veterans meets 6pm every Wed at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown. All Vets welcome, meghansfoundation.org VFW Post 175 meets 7pm, 2nd Mon of month at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown. doylestownpost175vfw.org Central Bucks Detachment Marine Corps League (MCL) meets 7:30pm, 2nd Wed of month at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown. All Marines welcome. American Legion Post 210 Auxillary meets 1pm, 3rd Sun of month at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) meets 7:30pm, 3rd Mon of month at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 17 meets 6pm, 4th Mon of month at Albert R Atkinson, Jr. American Legion Post 210, 315 North St, Doylestown. davmembersportal.org
Support & Service Groups
Cancer Support Group at Generations of Indian Valley meets 11am-12noon, 4th Fri of month. $3 donation/pp, per session. Space is limited. FMI/register at 215-723-5841. Sisters U Monthly Meetings 3rd Thurs of month, 7pm-9pm in Perkasie. Email: info@ sistersu.com, AARP meets 1:30pm, 2nd Mon of month at Upper Bucks Activity Ctr, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Quakertown. 215-536-3066, upperbucksac.org Family Education Program on Addiction meets 1st three Mondays monthly, 7pm at Presbyterian Church Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. Facilitators provide guidebook on understanding addiction, impact on family, next steps, support networks. Regis: 1-800-221-6333 SOS Survivors of Suicide Support Group meets 7:30pm-9pm (1st Wed each month) at Quakertown St. Luke’s Hospital, Taylor Conference Room A. Contact 610-657-0811. Compassionate Friends Support Group (loss of children, siblings) meets 7:30pm-9pm the 2nd Tue of month. St. Luke’s Hosp, 1021 Park Ave, Quakertown. (Taylor Conf. Rms A & B) tcfquakertownpa.org or 484-408-7314 Brain Injury Family/Spousal/Partner Support Group 6pm-8pm the 3rd Monday of month. First UCC, 4th & Park Ave, Quakertown, 215-538-3488 Caregiver Support Group meets last Thurs. of month. Independence Court of Quakertown, 1660 Park Ave. RSVP: 215-541-9030 to attend Ann Silverman Community Health Clinic (for uninsured eligible residents), 595 W State St, Doylestown. Call to schedule an eligibility appt. 215-345-2260. aschealthclinic.org Alzheimer’s Support Group at Phoebe Richland Health Care Ctr, 108 S. Main St, Richlandtown. Free, details: Social Services 267-371-4517, nkoval@phoebe.org NOVA (Network Of Victim Assistance) Support Groups, NOVA hotline 1-800-675-6900, NOVABucks.org Bedminster Nar-Anon meets Tues 7pm, Deep Run West Mennonite, 1008 Deep Run Rd, Perkasie, (family/friends of those struggling w/addiction) Bedminster.naranon@ yahoo.com A Woman’s Place (support for domestic abuse/violence) 24-hour Hotline 1-800-220-8116, www.awomansplace.org UB Kiwanis meets 1st Wed of month 7:30am at Panera Bread, 4th Wed of month 12:30pm at Dominick’s Pizza, Quakertown
and other hardships. Shop with a Cop is funded through the generous donations of our own community, from private sponsors to local businesses. Volunteers from the community help with gift wrapping, hosting, and registration. Each child is allotted a monetary gift card to purchase gifts for themselves and family members, allowing for a more enjoyable holiday. All participating police officers volunteer their own time to support the program. When Quakertown School Resource Officer Bob Lee first began this program in Quakertown, it involved 14 children. Last month, 138 children partnered with over 50 law enforcement officers and shopped for gifts at the Richland Township Walmart. This past year, Quakertown’s Shop with a Cop committee raised over $41,000 for the program.
Quakertown Lions Club meets 2nd & 4th Wed of month, 7pm at John’s Plain & Fancy Restaurant, Quakertown Quakertown Rotary Club meets (1st & 3rd Tues 7:30am at John’s Plain & Fancy Restaurant) (2nd, 4th, & 5th Tues 6pm at Spinnerstown Hotel) Business Networking International (BNI) meets Thurs 7am-8:30am at John’s Plain & Fancy in Quakertown. Membership info: James Dodson – jamescovie@yahoo.com
Community Meals Free Community Meal 2nd, 4th, & 5th Wed of month, 6pm. Richland Friends Quaker Meeting, Mill Rd & Main St (off Rte 309) Quakertown, 215-538-7555 Free Community Meal 3rd Thurs of month, 5:30pm-6:30pm. First UCC, 4th & Park, Quakertown, 215-536-4447 Free Community Meal 1st Thurs. of month (Oct-June) 5:45pm. Yerger Bldg across from Trinity Lutheran, 102 N Hellertown Ave, Quakertown Free Community Meal 3rd Mon of month, 5:30pm-6:30pm. Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. Call 215-249-3689 for possible ride.
Bingo Bingo - Milford Twp Fire Hall every Thur, 12:15pm (1st Thur. of month $50 Jackpot), 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown, 215-536-3066 Bingo - Richland Twp Fire/Rescue every Tues, open 5:30pm, 64 Shelly Rd, Quakertown. 215-536-7226 Bingo - Great Swamp Fish/Game every Sat, open 4pm, (kitchen open) 2650 Schukraft Rd, Quakertown, 215-536-8820 Bingo - Sellersville Fire Co. every Thurs (except July) open 5pm, 2 N. Main St, 215-257-4028 Bingo - Tylersport Fire Co. every Tues, open 5:30pm, 125 Ridge Rd, 215-257-5900 Bingo - American Legion Post 397, 1st & 3rd Fri of month, open 6pm, 935 Main St, Hellertown, 484-851-3624
January 2020 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
15
A Positive New Year Why the positive pessimist? I’m naturally a pessimist, but even I can learn to think positively with practice! Many New Year’s resolutions include things we can see like wanting to lose weight or getting organized. These are physical things, and I agree that if I’d lose weight, I’d probably be happier (and healthier). But in my opinion, these shouldn’t just be New Year’s resolutions. I strive for these things all year long even if it is a bit of a roller coaster ride. So this year, I’m going to focus on a few smaller and hopefully easier to stick to resolutions that will help my mental health by practicing my “stay positive” skills. My first resolution is to spend more time helping friends and family. This sounds like a no brainer, right? Unfortunately, I had to put this on hold for the past couple years to focus on my own health, but now that I’m beginning to feel better, I’m remembering that helping others makes me happy. But what if the friend or family member you want to help isn’t upbeat? We all know someone who tends to focus their energy on what’s wrong instead of counting their blessings. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to build them up and doing so doesn’t mean you need to let them bring you down. You can still spread some positivity even when you are around the most pessimistic people. First, don’t let yourself join them and complain along. “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” Complaining out loud just adds validity to all the negative thoughts and tends to breed more negative thoughts. It’s ok to remain quiet and let your friend or family member unload as long as they aren’t rambling about you or hurting your feelings. Sometimes people just need to talk it out. And if you can think of anything helpful and positive to say, please SAY IT!
Don’t be shy because it’s probably what they need to hear. “Look at the bright side, it can always get worse.” And if that doesn’t work, try changing the subject. Ask about something that makes the person feel good. For example, rather than asking “How are you?” just to get an earful of the person’s latest problems, instead ask something more specific and personal that you know the person enjoys talking about. And if you can’t think of anything, go old school with “Remember that time...” and ask them to tell a funny story. Laughter can be the best medicine, and when you aren’t happy - I find it best to just fake it ‘til you make it. And don’t just talk. If you are able, ask what you can do for them while you are there. Most people won’t ask for a favor (I didn’t when I had breast cancer), but if you insist on helping them with something, you’ll be surprised how much of an impact even a small task can make in someone’s life. My second resolution is to continue to learn to build other people up. This can apply to family and friends like my first resolution, but it can also apply to co-workers, acquaintances, and even complete strangers. I have found over the last year that if I just try to make someone smile every day, I end up smiling more myself in the process. This can be as simple as posting a positive comment on someone’s social media or saying something nice in front of someone’s co-workers or boss. Or you can simply hold the door for someone or strike up a conversation with the person behind the desk at your doctor’s office. The important thing to remember is to make them smile. It’s too easy to go through our day not looking people in the eye. That waiter might just be having a bad day, and the way you treat him in that moment could make all the difference in the world. For more tips on how to stay positive in the New Year, view the full article by visiting the Positive Pessimist - KellyJax.com
Welcome a New Decade!
Happy New Year!! I can’t believe it’s 2020 now….this past year, and even decade, has flown by! As I have written in the past, the turning over of a new year is a great time to turn over a new leaf!! New Year’s resolutions are so common, and they are a great opportunity to focus on something that you haven’t focused on in the past. This year, I would like to make a plug for a resolution about your pet’s routine health care. So many of my patients don’t always come in every year for their exam and vaccines….they maybe come in just a bit late, or miss several years all together, or only make it in when they are sick. I completely understand the financial burden and added expense of vaccines and routine care, but all veterinarians are ready and willing to work with you about choosing what your pet needs, or splitting care up, or offering financing to make it more affordable. I know at my practice one of our goals is that finances are never a reason that a pet doesn’t receive
care – we want to work with you to help you and your babies! I feel like our feline friends take the biggest hit here- just because some of them are indoor only doesn’t mean they can’t still be exposed to viruses that can come in on our shoes, or are airborne, or that they can’t still get fleas, or other diseases as they get older like kidney disease, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism! ALL of these things can be caught or prevented by having routine wellness exams performed! So for 2020, at the start of this new decade, please consider making your pets’ healthcare a priority- give your veterinarian a call, they will be delighted to hear from you, and are ready to help you make sure we keep your furry kids around for many, many years to come! I hope everyone had an amazing new year, and that 2020 is off to a great start! 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 Single tan male, 1 year old, looking for love! Enjoys long walks on the beach, or at the park, snuggling beside the fire watching a good movie, desqueaking a good stuffed toy, chewing a bone while staring longingly into your eyes. House trained, crate trained, and loves other dogs (as long as you promise he’s your favorite!) Long term relationships only, not looking for a fling! **Please contact us if you think Ruxin could be your new best friend, and you can give him a happily ever after!
Ruxin
Looking for a furever friend? Give Harley’s Haven a call at (267) 354-5204.
Is Market Timing a Smart Investment Strategy? You may have heard that timing is everything. And in many walks of life, that may be true – but not necessarily when it comes to investing. To understand why this is so, let’s look at three common mistakes investors make: • Selling investments and moving to cash when stocks are predicted to drop – If you follow the financial news on cable TV or the internet, you’re eventually bound to discover some “experts” who are predicting imminent, huge drops in the stock market. And on rare occasions, they may be right – but often they’re not. And if you were to sell some of your stocks or stock-based investments based on a prediction and move the money to cash or a cash equivalent, you could miss out on possible future growth opportunities if the predictor was wrong. And the investments you sold still could have played a valuable part in your portfolio balance. • Selling underperforming assets in favor of strong performers – As an investor, it can be tempting to unload an investment for one of those “hot” ones you read about that may have topped one list or another. Yet there’s no guarantee that investment will stay on top the next year, or even perform particularly well. Conversely, your own underperformers of today could be next year’s leaders. • Waiting for today’s risk or uncertainty to disappear before investing – Investing always involves risk and uncertainty. Instead of waiting for the perfect time to invest, you’re better off building a portfolio based on your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. All these mistakes are examples of a risky investment strategy: trying to “time” the market. If you try to be a market timer, not only will you end up questioning your buy/ sell decisions, but you also might lose sight
of why you bought certain investments in the first place. Specifically, you might own stocks or mutual funds because they are appropriate for your portfolio and your risk tolerance, and they can help you make progress toward your long-term financial goals. And these attributes don’t automatically disappear when the value of these stocks or funds has dropped, so you could end up selling investments that could still be doing you some good many years into the future. While trying to time the market is a difficult investment strategy even for the professionals, it doesn’t mean you can never take advantage of falling prices. In fact, you can use periodic dips in the market to buy quality assets at more attractive prices. Suppose, for example, that you invested the same amount of money every month into the same investments. One month, your money could buy more shares when the price of the investment is down – meaning you’re automatically a savvy enough investor to take advantage of price drops. While your money will buy fewer shares when the price of the investment is up, your overall investment holdings will benefit from the increase in price. Buying low and selling high sounds like a thrilling way to invest. But in the long run, you’re better off by following a consistent investment strategy and taking a long-term perspective. It’s time in the market, rather than timing the market, that helps keep portfolio returns moving in the right direction over time. 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
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2020
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: Rev. Dr. Suzanne Wenonah Duchesne Sunday Worship Schedule: 10 AM weekly. We invite you and your loved ones to join us.
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
January 2020 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
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The Dawning of a New Year
BY REV. CAROLANN HOPCKE The dawning of a new year always brings thoughts of reflection and hope. It’s an excuse to look forward to what we hope it will be like in the future. The New Year brings a fresh start. It feels as though we are given the opportunity to begin again with a clean, or at least, cleaner slate. However, as Christians, we are given that fresh start and clean slate every day of our lives. We were given this grace of a new beginning in our baptism – a covenant promise made by God and sealed with the power of the Holy Spirit. Our baptismal covenant graces us with a new beginning at every turn. As we call upon our baptism, we call upon the faithfulness of God to keep his promise of our new life in Christ complete with his love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness. As this New Year begins, let us try to take some time every day to remember the love and forgiveness we receive so freely and abundantly from our God. Let us also take the time to reflect upon the examples God has set before us and strive to follow their lead . . .
Like Abraham & Sarah – who trusted God implicitly. Like Paul – who forgot those things which are behind and pressed forward. Like David – who lifted his eyes to the hills from which his help comes. Like Mary – who said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord.” Like Enoch – who walked in daily fellowship with his heavenly Father. Like Job – who was patient and faithful in all circumstances. Like Gideon – who advanced even when his friends were few. Like Andrew – who strived to lead his brother to Christ. Like Hannah – who let her heart exult the Lord. May God bless you in this new year and always! Carolann Hopcke is the pastor at Christ’s Lutheran Church in Trumbauersville. She can be reached at christselca@verizon.net.
League of Women Voters Holds High School Poster Contest The League of Women Voters of Bucks County invites Bucks County high school seniors to enter the 2020 High School Senior Poster Contest. The contest is open to students enrolled in their senior year in a Bucks County public or private high school or in their senior year of home-schooling in Bucks County. Students are asked to create posters illustrating their feelings about voting and the democratic process, in keeping with this year’s theme “What Voting Means to Me.” The posters must be nonpartisan and free from political
bias and affiliation. The contest is now open and the deadline is February 28. An independent panel of recognized representatives from the local art community, collegiate art education and the League of Women Voters will judge the art on relevant criteria. The winner will be announced April 30. A $500 prize will be awarded. Official contest rules, entry form and model release for the 2020 High School Senior Poster Contest can be found at my.lwv.org/pennsylvania/bucks-county .
If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome..- Anne Bradstreet
Medicare Supplements (Medigap)
Medicare Supplements refers to various private supplemental health insurance plans sold to Medicare beneficiaries that provide coverage for medical expenses not covered by Medicare Parts ‘A’ & ‘B’ Medicare Supplements (also known as “Medigap”) cover the “gaps” for services and costs that Medicare Parts ‘A’ & ‘B’ leave wide open. Medigap Supplements are not Medicare Advantage Plans, which are HMO’s and PPO’s that act totally different than Supplements. On the surface it’s seems to be a daunting task choosing a MediGap policy as there are now nine (9) plans. However, there only two (2) that really provide the best value and coverage and in turn are the most popular. In a nutshell, here’s how the two (2) MediGap Plans differ: Plan ‘N’ covers all gaps left open by Medicare except these out-of pocket costs: • The Medicare yearly medical deductible ($198 in 2020)
• $20 Dr. visit co-pays (primary and specialist) • $50 ER visits Plan ‘G’ covers all gaps left open by Medicare, except these out-of pocket costs: • The yearly medical deductible ($198 in 2020) Note: Plan ‘F’ which covered 100% of the gaps in coverage is no longer available to folks newly transitioning to Medicare. (Whoever has it, can keep it forever, if desired) It’s important to understand that MediGap plans are standardized by the Federal Gov’t. The only thing that is different is the price that Insurance companies charge for the same plans, so it’s best to shop around for the best price! Please call our office at 267-923-5281 if you would like a custom quote for MediGap Plans. We represent many companies that will in turn offer you good options. Howard Peck, is the owner of Senior Insurance Solutions LLC based in Green Lane PA. He’s a Pennsylvania Licensed Insurance Broker who exclusively specializes in Medicare. Reach him at 267-923-5281, hnpeck@comcast.net, or at SRinsurancesolutions.com
Happy New Year & Happy Gardening in 2020!
neighbors has a male plant, or plan to plant both male and female shrubs or trees. Japanese or Chinese witch hazel (Hamamelis) , or the x intermedia crosses (available in oranges and reds) produce beautiful and striking blooms in late January to March. Create a list of all perennials, shrubs and trees in your garden, including their location. List bloom and pruning times, fertilization needs, etc. Having this information in one place is helpful and makes garden work more efficient. Make sure to record when you fertilize or prune. What’s the latest on the Spotted Lanternfly? The adult spotted lanternfly has now laid its eggs and died. Egg masses can be spotted on trees and many smooth surfaces in your garden. Newly laid egg masses have a grey mud-like covering which can take on a dry cracked appearance over time. Old egg masses appear as rows of 30-50 brownish seed-like deposits in 4-7 columns on the trunk, roughly an inch long (fig.). If you find egg masses in areas that are already quarantined, scrape them from the tree or structure, double bag them and discard them in the trash. You can also drop them in alcohol or hand sanitizer to kill them. The lanternfly is spreading quickly and is a serious threat to grapes, stone fruits and timber trees. For the most up to date information, consult this web page: https://goo.gl/dzTzAR. 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!
“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness” – John Steinbeck, Travels with Charlie
How often have you heard the statement, “I hate winter!”? January in the Northeast garden is bleak, snowy and cold. I have been guilty of making this statement myself. But, nature knows best. There are many positives of cold temperatures and snowfall: It transforms the drab brown garden landscape into a sparkling winter wonderland. It blankets the garden soil and protects it from being warmed by winter sun which causes thawing and heaving, damaging the delicate root structures of shrubs and trees. It protects spring blooming bulbs, keeping them dormant. Beside the inconvenience to our travel plans, there are negatives: The weight of heavy snowfall can damage branches of shrubs and trees . Remove it whenever possible. However, removing ice on low hanging branches stuck to the soil is not advisable. This could cause breakage, making the plant vulnerable to disease. Products such as rock salt or calcium chloride used for snow and ice removal can be harmful to plants and pets. Whenever possible use more environmentally friendly sand or kitty litter. If you have shrubs near a public roadway and you can’t control the use of harmful products consider surrounding them with a burlap “cocoon”. What can we do as we wait for seed and plant catalogs to arrive? Check stored summer blooming bulbs frequently for signs of rot. Remove any affected bulbs and discard. If you have not already done so, clean and sharpen your gardening tools. Store them in a low humidity area to prevent rust. Trowels and other hand digging tools can be stored in a bucket of sand with a small amount of oil added to provide lubricant. Plan any changes you want to make to your garden in the spring. Some excellent native plant choices are winterberry (Ilex verticillata) and American holly (Ilex Opaca) to bring more color to your garden. As in all hollies, only a female will produce berries, so make sure that one of your
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• Upper Bucks Free Press • January 2020
The answers to the puzzles on this page are found elsewhere in this issue.
Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.
“An optimist stays up until midnight to see the new year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves.” - Bill Vaughan
Animal Horn
Galaxy
Chameleon Tail
Hurricane
DNA Cells
Millipede
Fern Tip
Narwhal Tusk
Fingerprint
Nautilus Shell
Notebook Out of Control Pinecone Snail Shell Staircase Sunflower
Center Tornedo Unicorn Horn Vine Tendril Whirlpool
January 2020 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
19
Sixth Annual ‘Sea of Blue’ Nets $1500 for QCHS Football, Cheerleading, Marching Band
The Visitors side of the stadium at the Annual 2019 Thanksgiving Football Game between Quakertown Community and Pennridge High Schools was certainly a ‘Sea of Blue.’ For the sixth year in a row, Quakertown Football fans donned nearly 1800 commemorative blue t-shirts sponsored by over 30 area businesses and organizations. The net proceeds of $1500 will benefit the Quakertown High School Football Booster Club, Marching Band, and
Cheerleading program. Quakertown High School senior Kenzie Sawadski submitted the winning design for the front of the “Sea of Blue VI” shirts. Christopher Betz, publisher of the Upper Bucks Free Press and coordinator of this year’s Sea of Blue initiative, offers heartfelt thanks to the generous sponsors and volunteers that made it all possible.
New Year ceremonies are designed to get rid of the past and to welcome the future. January is named after the Etruscan word ‘janua’ which means door.
‘Quakertown Cares’ Campaign Raises $40,300
BY JANE THOMPSON-SMITH
“QUAKERTOWN CARES” COMMITTEE
You’ve done it again, community! You’ve helped your neighbors in need. Thank you for having a giving spirit! How did “Cares” reach the $40,000 mark? A $15,000 donation by the Zeigler Family Foundation was a huge boost to the campaign. We cannot thank the Zeigler family enough for their caring spirit and commitment to community! In addition, the Friendship Circle of the Quakertown United Methodist Church donated an incredible $1,000. A second house of worship made a significant donation. Morningstar Fellowship of Quakertown gave $500. There were also anonymous $500 donations from anonymous Milford Township residents. Thank you to all for your generosity! There were also several $250 donations. These were given by Enzo Martellucci, Zachary Schoch and Janice and Jim Newcomer. Giving $200 were Rebecca Neitz, as well as anonymous Quakertown Borough residents. Thank you for caring! Donating $150 were Kimberly Kreider, and anonymous Quakertown Borough residents. And there were a multitude of $100 gifts! Many were given by Quakertown Borough and Richland Township residents who wished to remain anonymous. Milford Township residents Patty Sabol, Eileen Bruchak, Kim Finnerty, Rebecca Kummery, Cynthia Teprovich, Shelia Cox, Pam Fothergill, Bethany Fuller, Erin Haslett,
above photos by christopher betz, below photo by adam finger
Erica Henry, Kevin Kelly, Janet Pelone, Crystal Prine and Andy Scappaticci also all gave $100 to the cause. Thank you! Pitching in with $50 were Jonathon Pallone, Katie Rosica,Terry San Angelo, Kelly Shaak, and Robert and Sandra Myers. There was also an anonymous $50 donation by a Quakertown Borough resident. There were also $25 donations given by Corey Beil, Elizabeth Coyle, Jenell Hilton, Stephanie Rodgers, Lindsay Wisser and anonymous Richland Township residents. Rounding out the giving were Katie Skonier, Wendy Somers, Deborah Yard and an anonymous Milford Township resident. All gave $20 each. All we can say at “Quakertown Cares” is thank you for giving during this special season of good will. “Cares” is a holiday campaign, but it has grown since its inception in 1995, and collections are received year round. Quakertown area residents are also helped year round. If you haven’t given yet, please consider doing so. This campaign helps people in your own community who really need it. It helps them to purchase necessities such as food and clothing, and to keep their homes warm. Want to help your neighbors? It’s easy! 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.