Upper Bucks Free Press • July 2023

ONGOING:

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

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

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

Method. FMI: 215-536-0353

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

Method. FMI: 215-536-0353

June 27 to July 1

Perkasie Fire Department Carnival (Mon,Tues,Wed,Thur opens at 6pm) (Sat opens 4pm) Lots of amusements, games & food! Carnival is at Lenape Park, E Park Ave, Perkasie

Magician Ran’D Shine 3:30pm at Menlo Park in Perkasie. Interactive magic show full of illusions & sleight of hand.

June 28 to July 2

‘Complete Works of Shakespeare’ (raucous 3-person comedy in 99 minutes) at DeSales University Outdoor Theatre, 2755 Station Ave, Center Valley. Ages 7+. Tickets $25+. FMI: pashakespeare.org or 610-282-9455

July 1

Shakespeare Festival/Community Day at Center Valley campus of DeSales University in front of Labuda Center for Performing Arts. Begins 10am. Fun, food, live performances for the family, too much to list. Go to pashakespeare.org/community-day-july-1

‘Christmas Tea @ the Train Station’ 10am5pm benefits local organizations. $5/family, $3/singles. Train Station is located at 15 Front Street, Quakertown.

‘Oldies & More’ Dance with DJ Joel, (doors open 6pm),7pm-10pm at Green Lane Fire Company, 214 Main St, Rte 63, Green Lane. $12 includes snacks. Also a Cash Bar, 50/50 & door prizes. FMI: 215-453-9841

“DJ B2B” 11am-2pm-Music on the Outdoor Stage at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. FMI: quakertownmarket@gmail.com

July 1 & 2

Win Family 4 Pack of Iron Pig tickets for “4th of July Giveaway” at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. Wear your Iron Pigs or Philadelphia Phillies Jersey or Hat to be eligible to win. Listen for the announcement to come to the Market Office at Exit #4. First person wearing correct attire will win the tickets.

July 2

“Allentown Band”-Patriotic Band 7pm at Souderton Community Park, 459 Wile Ave, Souderton. FMI: info@concertsundaes.com

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

July 4 Independence day

“Ring the Bell (Bells) for Freedom” (has been done across nation since July 1776) Richland Historical Society’s Patriotic Program at 1:30pm concluding with you ringing a bell at 2pm. Free event at Historic Shelly School, 130 Richlandtown Pike, Quakertown.

“Let Freedom Ring” National Bell Ringing Ceremony, 10:30am at Sellersville Museum, 120 E Church St, Sellersville. Bells will ring throughout the Nation at 10:30am. 13 people will be picked to ring the bell during the service. 215-257-5075

Quakertown Community Day at Memorial Park in Quakertown. Pancake breakfast, Vendors, Car Show (register), Entertainment, Quakertown Band, Fireworks.

Quakertown Community Day Car Show at Memorial Park. Register/$20 from 8am12noon. Awards at 1pm. Best of Show, Stock, Modified Trophies. No vehicles newer than 2003.

2023 Hometown 4th of July Celebration, begins 8am at New Goshenhoppen Park, 618 Third St, East Greenville. Annual Fireman’s Water Battles, food, music, (maybe pet contest, bike decorating, fireworks)

July 5

Coffee Club 9am at Robert James Investments, 1313 W Broad St, Quakertown. Convenient parking in rear of building. “Let’s talk about money, the market and investing.” RSVP to Victoria for info and to register.

“Barefoot Bobby & the Breakers” (rock, country, blues, Motown hits) 7pm-9pm at Perkasie’s Amphitheater in Lenape Park.

July 7

“Chris Lane” Sounds of Summer Concerts

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

July 8

‘Christmas in July’ Craft Fair for LCR, 11am-4pm at Benner Hall Memorial Park, 1260 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown. 50/50, Basket Raffles, Bake Sale, Vendors, Petting Zoo, Food Trucks, DJ & more. FMI: lastchanceranch.org

Christ’s Community Café 9am-11am. Free ‘to-go’ style lunches to share. Stop by and grab one while supplies last. First UCC, 4th and Park Ave, Quakertown

“Smooth Retsina Glow” 12noon-2pm, Music on the Outdoor Stage at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. quakertownmarket@ gmail.com

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

East Penn Modifiers Summer Car Show at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. FMI: quakertownmarket@gmail.com

Flea Market 8am-1pm at Grace UMC, 295 S Main St, Telford. Call 215-723-2144 to reserve a spot by July 7, cash only.

July 9

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

“Mike Greer & Co Band”-Classic Rock 7pm at Souderton Community Park, 459 Wile Ave, Souderton. FMI: info@concertsundaes.com

Pennridge Community Day at Lenape Park, Rte 112, Constitution Ave, Perkasie, 8am until 9:15pm fireworks. Rain date July 16. Lots of activities including Baby Parade, Carousel, Races and more. Details on Facebook page. Doylestown Road Angels Car Show 9am3:30pm at Dublin Fire Company, 194 N Main St, Dublin. All vehicles welcome. Cash prizes, door prizes for registered participants. Donate a canned good for local food pantry and be entered to win $50 cash. Spectators welcome: $5/person, under age 13 is free. FMI: altursi@gmail.com

July 12

“River of Dreams” (faithful recreation of music of Billy Joel) 7pm-9pm at Perkasie’s Amphitheater in Lenape Park.

Congressman Fitzpatrick will be at 10 South 3rd St in Quakertown once a month this year (Craig Staats office 2pm-4pm) to answer questions about veterans, IRS, Social Security and any other federal issues. No appt needed.

July 14

“Hatter” (lively rock 'n' roll concert experience) 7pm-9pm at Perkasie’s Amphitheater in Lenape Park.

“Puss In Boots-The Last Wish” Outdoor Movie Nights at Veterans Park, 145 E Pumping Station Rd, Quakertown. Movies start at dusk. Bring own blanket/chairs. Tim 215-536-4733

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

July 14 to 16

“Cinderella & the Substitute Fairy Godmother” – Live Theater at DCP Theater, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. (Fri 8pm) (Sat/ Sun 1pm and 4pm) Ticket info: contactus@ dcptheatre.com or 215-234-0966

July 14, 15 and 18 to 22

Dublin Fire Company “Fireman’s Fair” at 194 N Main St, Dublin. Food, live music and entertainment, raffles, rides, games. Fireworks July 22 begin 10pm. See Facebook page for more information & special deals.

July 15

‘Oldies & More’ Dance with DJ Gary Wiley, 7pm-10pm at Green Lane Fire Company, 214 Main St, Rte 63, Green Lane. $12 includes snacks. Also a Cash Bar, 50/50 & door prizes. FMI: 215-453-9841

Indoor Craft Show 9am-4pm in Event Rm #201, at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. FMI: quakertownmarket@gmail.com

“Polysynthetic” 10am-12noon, Music on the Outdoor Stage at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. quakertownmarket@gmail.com

Doug Church (The True Voice of Elvis) at Tylersport Firehouse. Doors open 7:30pm, Show time 8pm. Tickets $38. BYOB, ice & soda provided, food for purchase. FMI/tickets: Mark 610-287-3469.

Designer Bag Bingo (opens 5pm, games at 6pm) at Pennridge Community Center, 146 E Main St, Perkasie. Bring own drinks/ snacks/dinner. Water & lite snacks also available. Package/$30 for 10 regular games. Special games, raffles, beer wall, wine basket & 50/50 at additional cost. Tickets: Jasonkuttlegacyfund.org

Christmas in July Craft Fair at Benner Hall, 1260 Cherry St, Richlandtown. (time TBD)

July 16

Bucks County SPCA Barn Bash for the Animals Fundraiser, 1pm-4pm at Durham Hill Farm in Pipersville. $150/person (age 16 up), dress casual. Tickets: 215-794-7425 or buckscountyspca.org/barn-bash/

“Country Jades” 10am-2pm, Music on the Outdoor Stage at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. quakertownmarket@gmail.com

“Brian Dean Moore Band” (country) Music in the Park free outdoor concerts 6pm at Dimmick Park, 570 Durham St, Hellertown. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on. Food & drink vendors available.

Octagonal Schoolhouse (only one left in Bucks County 1802-1850) Open House 1pm5pm at Corner Swamp Rd & Second St Pike (Rte 232), Wrightstown Township. FREE admission. 215-598-7534 or 215-870-2013.

“E Street Shuffle”-Bruce Springsteen Tribute 7pm at Souderton Community Park, 459 Wile Ave, Souderton. info@concertsundaes.com

July 17

“Make & Take” 12:45 pm (1-hour) Floral Design Class to create a vase filled with beautiful flowers. Wavy Roo Florals owner will instruct. Learn to create & sustain a cut flower garden. Cost: $40 includes all materials needed. Registration & payment due by July 10 at front desk or 215-723-5841. Generations of Indian Valley, 259 N Second St, Souderton.

July 19

“Ferdinand the Bull” (an indie-folk collective, and a dynamic stage show) 7pm-9pm at Perkasie’s Amphitheater in Lenape Park.

QNB Bank Founder’s Day Celebration 7PM-9PM at QuiNBy’s Playground, Memorial Park, Quakertown. Open to the public. QNB and the Quakertown Band celebrate 146 years together. Appearance by QuiNBy the Savings Squirrel.

July 21

“DJ B2B” 11am-2pm, Music on the Outdoor Stage at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. FMI: quakertownmarket@gmail.com

July 21 & 22

“Cinderella & the Substitute Fairy Godmother” – Live Theater at DCP Theater, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. (Fri 8pm) (Sat 1pm and 4pm) Tickets: contactus@dcptheatre.com or 215-234-0966.

‘Christmas in July’ Black Friday Sales All Weekend at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. quakertownmarket@gmail.com

July 22

‘Tools & Designer Totes Bingo’ Benefit for Tom Gero. (open 4pm, games 5pm) at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown. (Tickets/$35 advance only at Eventbrite.com. Enter event name in search bar) Door prize, raffle baskets. BYOB, refreshments available.

Haycock Historical Society’s ‘Irish Roots Festival’ 5:30pm-8:30pm, John Stokes House, 1299 Apple Rd, Quakertown. FREE, bring blanket to sit on. Live Irish Music & Dance Demonstrations, Irish food/drink sampling, Gaelic Linguist. Peek inside the House for historical fun facts about our Irish ancestors. WWWA Wrestling 6:30pm Bell Time. $25/front row tickets, $20/general admission. Tickets at Raceplace Dept at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. or call WWWA Office 215-362-7184.

July 23

“Class of ’84 Band”Concert Band, Broadway, Classical 7pm at Souderton Community Park, 459 Wile Ave, Souderton. FMI: info@concertsundaes.com

July 26

“Elle and The John Doe Banc” (rhythm & blues meets pop with a dash of sparkle) 7pm9pm at Perkasie’s Amphitheater in Lenape Park.

July 28

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

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

July 30

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

August 2

“Wonderland: Celebrating the 70s & 80s” (golden age of pop, funk & rock and roll) 7pm9pm at Perkasie’s Amphitheater, Lenape Park.

August 4

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

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

August 5

‘Family Fun Day’ 11am-3pm, DJ, crafts, face painting, balloon twisting, outdoor games,

hot air balloon and more. By Outdoor Stage at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. FMI: quakertownmarket@gmail.com

August 6

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

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

August 7

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

August 9

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

Auxiliary Presents $140,000 to Support New Hospital Wing

The Grand View Auxiliary presented a gift of $140,000 to Grand View Hospital, bringing the annual total for the Auxiliary’s fundraising to $160,500. The check was presented at the Auxiliary’s year-end meeting to President and CEO Douglas Hughes and Rob Loughery, Chair, Grand View Health Board of Trustees. The $140,000 gift brings the group ne step closer to meeting their $600,000 pledge in support of the new six-story, 190,000-squarefoot Pavilion at Grand View Health. The Emergency and Trauma departments inside the Pavilion opened in April, with new operating rooms and patient rooms set to open this

Where Can I Get my UBFP?

QUAKERTOWN AREA

A-Plus Mini Market

women as they navigate their breast cancer journeys,” said Monique Gary, DO, Medical Director of the Grand View Health Cancer Program.

“Designer Bag Bingo is a signature event for the Auxiliary, and the support from our breast cancer care team, cancer survivors, community partners and Grand View Health employees grows each year,” Barb Matkowski, co-chair of the event said.

Additional items of note from the Auxiliary’s year-end meeting:

Outgoing Auxiliary President Pat Schuck received the Auxilian of the Year award.

St. Luke's Bone & Joint

St. Luke's Hospital

BEDMINSTER Weis Markets

Babushka’s

Borough Hall

C & C Confections

Classic Staffing

Dairy Queen

Econo Lodge

The Free Press office

Friendly Book Store

Giant Food Markets

Grocery Outlet

Grundy House

Hampton Inn

Holiday Inn Express

Independence Court

James Michener Library

John’s Plain & Fancy

JP’s Diner

Liberty Thrift Store

Moyer's Shoes

Pep Boys service lobby

Quaker Cleaners

Quakertown Alive!

Quakertown Family Rest

Quakertown Farmers Mkt

Quality Inn

QNB Bank

Rep. Craig Staats' office

Sal's Pizza Randa

Sine's 5 & 10

Spring Hill Suites

Tohickon Campground

Upper Bucks Chamber

TELFORD

Indian Valley Library

Landis Supermarket

TRUMBAUERSVILLE

Borough Hall

Earl's Pub & Grill

Fino's Pizzeria

Spor's General Store

RICHLANDTOWN

Seven-Eleven

Phoebe Meadow Glen

SPINNERSTOWN

Spinnerstown Hotel

E J's Barber Shop

PLEASANT VALLEY

Springfield Diner

SELLERSVILLE A & N Diner

Hidden Meadows

Roy Ann Diner

PERKASIE

Giant Food Markets

Landis Food Markets

Pierce Library

QNB Bank

SILVERDALE

Bolton's Farm Market

OTTSVILLE

Dollar General

NAPA of Ottsville

Wehrung's Home Center

REVERE

Top of the Mall Deli

Revere General Store

COOPERSBURG

The Inside Scoop Pool Pro

SPRINGTOWN

Jen's Barber Shop

Village Center Auto

How to Pick Valuables at Yard Sales

With the new Barbie movie coming to a theatre near you this summer, complete with a top-secret plot, collectors are ready to buy, sell, trade America’s favorite doll. Get ready because the sales will be active, and the prices won’t be cheap leading up to the premiere of Greta Gerwig’s film. The new Barbie movie is going to help drive market prices up for the popular vintage dolls and all the Barbie paraphernalia that goes along with them.

The Bild Lilli doll, the German fashion doll that sparked Barbie designer Ruth Handler’s inspiration for Barbie dolls in the first place, regularly sells for thousands of dollars on the open collectibles market. The German dolls had fashion outfits, makeup, and a well-known place in the history of doll collecting. I’ve appraised my fair share of Bild Lilli and Barbie dolls and Barbie accessories evaluating them all with high values depending on many factors.

Barbie will be the focus of the movie’s plot, no doubt, but her supporting cast of characters such as Ken, Midge, Allan, etc. will also have roles in the film as they did in the imaginations of children since Barbie’s debut on March 9, 1959, at the American Toy Fair in New York City.

In the Barbie-sphere, Barbie’s friends did not outshine Barbie. However, with collectors, Barbie’s friends are of interest. Ken was Barbie’s boyfriend and vintage examples of the male doll, and his accessories are collectible, but it is Barbie’s female friends that are most popular in the collectible doll market such as Skipper, PJ, Midge, and Francie, Barbie’s British, and very fashionable cousin. For instance, Midge was an interesting addition to Mattel’s Barbie doll line. Midge, Barbie’s best girlfriend early on arrived on the scene in 1963 and her boyfriend, Allan, appeared a year later in 1964. Barbie, Ken, Midge, and Allan would often double date.

Over the decades, Midge married, became pregnant, got cancelled and reintroduced. Midge’s boyfriend, Allan and later husband, as of 1991 when they wed, was featured much less often and less prominently. While Allan was Ken’s buddy, he was later unceremoniously omitted from the Barbie and friends group. Character backgrounds should play a prominent role in the new film. The foursome of Barbie, Ken, Midge, and Allan was not as popular as Barbie and Midge were independently. And, when Midge matured and had a magnetic

baby bump that could be removed, controversy ensued. She didn’t share the same wholesome attraction as Barbie, wore less makeup, and wasn’t as fashionable when it came to clothing choices. As a result, Midge didn’t have the same prominence as Barbie either. Midge was discontinued in 1967 and PJ replaced her with blonde pigtails and a closer resemblance to Barbie. Midge returned in the late 1980s as part of the California Dream Barbie set. The 1980s Midge doll is a rare and sought after collectible doll today because she was a limited edition.

Barbie lovers liked her having a girlfriend, but collectors didn’t care who the girlfriend was, Midge or PJ. For the 60th anniversary, in March of 2023, Mattel reintroduced Midge. She featured her original and youthful freckled face, auburn hair, and she wore a two-piece creamsicle bathing suit. Midge did not have any babies or Allan in tow for her reintroduction.

The collectors who are ready to sell will have a good opportunity on the heels of the July 21 movie premiere. As a couple Midge and Allan don’t command the same values as Barbie and Ken, their more popular best friends.

A well-dressed Midge doll in good condition from the 1960s would be worth $400 to $600 today. The best Allan doll example with an original box could command $300. On the other hand, a vintage Barbie doll regularly commands several hundreds to thousands of dollars from the most enthusiastic collectors.

Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, who will take on the roles of Barbie and Ken in the movie, promise to provide excitement to a collectors’ group that spans the globe. As these actors immortalize the beloved dolls, collectors get ready to reach into their pockets to buy new Barbie vintage objects or they’ll cash in on the opportunity that a big budget Hollywood feature will bring new money into a very slow doll market. Either way, it promises to be a cool summer with Barbie and the gang—both vintage in packages and on contemporary movie screens.

Ph.D. antiques aPPraiser author anD awarD-winning Personality, Dr lori Presents antique aPPraisal events nationwiDe, aPPears on history channel s the curse of oak islanD anD Pawn stars Do america anD helPs clients with aPPraisal services at www.Drloriv com watch her show you how to finD valuables at bargain Prices on www youtube com/Drloriv or call (888) 431-1010.

Interesting Dog Facts

Some fun facts about dogs, most of which even I didn't know!

1. In an interview in 2013, Sir Paul McCartney said that he added a frequency that only dogs can hear to the end of the Beatles song “A Day in the Life”. Of course, I had to try it. I played it three times just make sure it wasn’t a fluke. So, watch your dog when you play the song!

2. Three dogs survived the sinking of the Titanic. The dogs were in first class and included a Pomeranian puppy. Her owner wrapped the puppy in a blanket to escape the sinking ship. Everyone thought she was carrying a baby. Another Pomeranian and a Pekingese were also rescued. Move over, Rose and Jack!

3. A Greyhound would actually beat a cheetah in a long-distance race! Greyhounds are excellent long-distance runners and can maintain a speed of 35 mph for up to seven miles. While the cheetah is incredibly fast, it only can keep its speed for about 200- 300 yards. So, they may have the running start but it’ll be surpassed by the Greyhound!

4. A 50-year-old blind man named Bill Irwin hiked the entire 2,000-mile Appalachian Trail with his black and tan German Shepard guide

dog, Orient. Orient packed his own provisions and stopped at every signpost which Irwin read with his fingertips. They hiked the Appalachian Trail for eight months in 1990. He didn’t use maps or a compass, just his seeing-eye dog!

5. 30% of all Dalmatians are deaf in one ear and 5% are deaf in both. This is due to the extreme piebald gene which is responsible for their white coat and blue eyes in some Dalmatians. Dalmatians with larger dark patches are less likely to be deaf.

6. Many dog owners haven't heard of this interesting fact, but did you know that your four-legged friend has three eyelids? The third lid is called the “haw” or nictitating membrane, and is responsible for keeping the eye protected and lubricated. I had a dog where I saw this third eyelid often when she was sleeping. I thought she was sleeping with her eyes open!

7. Chow Chows and Shar Peis are the only dogs that have fully blue-black tongues. What is even more interesting, the cause of these blue and black tongues is currently unknown! submitteD by marion c o’neil cPDt-ka, ctDi owner anD instructor for molasses creek Dog training, llc, quakertown anD trainer for runaway farm Pet hosPital, Pennsburg she can be reacheD at molassescreek@verizon net

35 Year Reunion of Mental Health Colleagues

BY PALMA MOYER, RN

A reunion of mental health workers from Grandview 3A recently took place at John’s Plain and Fancy Restaurant, where they gathered to reminisce about the old days. It was a heartwarming experience for the team to be together once again, as they had worked tirelessly to help those struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues. Their efforts have helped many individuals learn new coping skills and adjust to life's challenges. The guest of honor at the reunion was Dr. Vernon Kratz, who had played a significant role in the team's success. Reverend Dot

Shelly, a UCC Minister, gave the mealtime blessing. Interestingly, she had been one of the Grandview nurses while studying for the ministry. Chris Baker, one of the team's favorite supervisors from back in the day, honored them by coming all the way from the Poconos. Sara Burge, an ER crisis worker from New Jersey, also attended the reunion, along with many others who are still employed in the area.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Annette W for arranging this wonderful meeting. We hope to see many more of our colleagues at our next gathering. May you all enjoy a long, healthy,

Ruth IRene nowlIn BaRto, 91, of Quakertown, died peacefully at home on the afternoon of Sunday, June 18, 2023.

She was the wife of Donald C. Barto, who preceded her in death one year ago on June 5, 2022.

Ruth was born in Tyrone, Blair County, Pennsylvania, the youngest of 5 children born to Edgar B. Sr. and Edna (Myers) Nowlin.

Ruth graduated from Warriors Mark High School in Warriors Mark, Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania in 1950. Prior to her death, she was the last surviving member of her class.

Following her move to Quakertown with her husband in 1950, Ruth worked for several years in the office at the former Sapphire Hosiery in Quakertown.

After the birth of her children, Ruth dedicated her life to raising and caring for her family and to her church and community by actively volunteering in many areas. During her 72 years as a member of Quakertown United Methodist Church, she served in many leadership positions: Board of Trustees President, United Methodist Women President, Chicken Barbecue Committee Chair, Usher Team Coordinator, Kitchen Coordinator, Building Committee, and Friendship Circle member. She was passionate about the future life of her church. She loved her church family and attended worship faithfully including the morning of the day she died.

In the Quakertown community, she had volunteered with the Bucks County Department of Health - Well-Child Clinic and for many years was the borough coordinator for the American Cancer Society’s door-to-door fundraising campaigns in Quakertown Borough.

In addition, she served for many years as a Republican Committee Woman for the 4th Ward in the borough.

She was also an avid fan of the Philadelphia Phillies, the 76ers, and the Quakertown

~Obituaries~

Panthers, especially when her children and grandson were actively involved with the sports programs.

Surviving are twins – daughter Melea Ruth (husband P. Lynn Rupert, Jr.) and son, Curtiss Nowlin Barto, all of Quakertown; a grandson, Ryan Curtiss Rupert (wife Amanda) of Pennsburg; two great-grandsons, Jaxton Jeffrey and Jacoby Curtiss Rupert of Williamsport, PA, and one more due this summer. She is also survived by three step-great-grandchildren, Ella, Kollin, and Emelia Cron; a nephew, Timothy Nowlin, and 6 nieces Deborah Hoover, Kathy Bedger, Denise Nowlin, Pamela Priar, Molly Grove, and Amy Nowlin.

In addition to her parents and husband, Ruth was preceded in death by her 4 brothers, Edgar B. Jr., Calvin A., David L., and Samuel M. Nowlin, a niece Penelope Bucsek, and nephews Andrew and David Nowlin.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the QUMC Endowment Fund, for educational grants, at the church address listed above. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown.

GeoRGe DanIel, SR , 76, of Quakertown died June 22, 2023 in his home.

Born in Quakertown he was the son of the late Frederick George & Frances Daniel.

He worked for the former Bethlehem Steel before retiring.

He was a U.S. Marines Veteran and a member of the Quakertown American Legion Post #242.

George is survived by a son George, Jr., a daughter Cynthia Renee Decker (Robert); two brothers Richard & Ralph; and a sister Judy Ritter. He is also survived by five grandchildren Megan Nicole Daniel, Adam Daniel, Krystal Daniel, Thomas Edward Daniel, and Timothy Michael Kaufmann. Services will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

auGuStIne JoSeph Doyle, 78, passed away on June 28,2023 at home, after a brief struggle with a rare cancer.

Gus was born in Philadelphia, PA to the late Thomas and Catharine (nee Peale) Doyle, and was a proud direct descendant of noted American artists, Charles Willson Peale and his brother James Peale.

Gus grew up in the Germantown area of Philadelphia surrounded by a large loving family: his late sister Peggy, older brothers Tom (Linda), and the late Paul, and younger sister Adele (the late George Carpenter), numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Gus and the extended Peale clan could be found on the beach in Cape May, NJ every summer.

Gus attended St. Francis of Assisi Grade School and Northeast Catholic High School for Boys, class of 1963. In those early years Gus met the love of his life, Kathryn Paskowsky, and pursued her relentlessly. He was drafted into the U.S. Navy on October 1, 1965. He was stationed at Lemoore Naval Air Station in CA where he pursued his life-long dream of becoming a firefighter.

His second dream of marrying his high school sweetheart became a reality on September 24, 1966. After being honorably discharged, Gus and Kathy returned to Philadelphia where Gus started his 23-year career at Willow Grove Naval Air Station, and raised his family in Warminster: Carole (Andy Dinnhaupt) and Paul (Kate).

Gus held many titles throughout his life, but his favorite was Grandpop to his 6 grandchildren: MK, Drew, Max, Louise, Emily, and Anna. In addition to his devoted wife of 56 years, children, grandchildren and siblings, Gus leaves behind his sister-in-law Diane Willmann, brother-in-law Michael Paskowsky (Jane Talarico), dear friend Jackie Jackson, numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Interment will happen privately at a later date. All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the charity of your choice.

DavID wIllIam eDGe, 76, of Quakertown died Monday, June 5, 2023 in Phoebe Nursing Home, Allentown, PA.

Born in Quakertown he was the son of the late William F. & Jane (Reed) Edge. He was a 1967 graduate of Quakertown High School and served in the Army National Guard from 1967-1973.

David enjoyed his work in sales while working with his father at Tohickon Valley Trailer Center, Quakertown. He later moved to Indiana where he sold Manufactured Homes. He enjoyed sailing, NASCAR Races, and traveling.

He is survived by two sisters Nancy Edge Morgan of Quakertown, and Carol Looney (Kenneth) of New Castle, Virginia and a very special friend and companion Bonnie Rothrock and nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister Susan Edge, a brother-in-law Ronald Morgan and a nephew. Services will be held privately and at the convenience of the family.

Rest in Peace David. You finally sailed out of Phoebe; God wanted you; now he has set you free. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Phoebe Allentown 1925 West Turner St. Allentown, PA 18104 or to Parkinson’s Foundation www.parkinson.org Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown.

FouaD ellatI, 90, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on June 11th, 2023, at Quakertown Center.

Born in Haifa, Palestine, Fouad was the son of the late Amin Ellati and the late Alia Ellati. Fouad immigrated from Palestine to Lebanon in 1948 where he met his wife, Jamileh, and had his three children.

In his free time, Fouad enjoyed fishing, riding motorcycles, going to the beach, lifeguarding, and dancing.

Fouad will be remembered as the life of the party who was always happy and enjoying life.

Fouad is survived by his children, Suzi Berry (Edmund Berry), Amin Al-Laty

(Sabah Al-laty), and Hilda Nammour (Andre Nammour); and his grandchildren, Scott Berry, Aya Berry, Maria Nammour, Adam Berry, Omar Al-laty, Celine Nammour, and Leah Al-laty.

Fouad is predeceased by his wife, Jamileh. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Blooming Glen Mennonite Church.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown. (215-536-3343)

leSteR m. Fox, 72, of East Greenville formerly of Quakertown died June 1, 2023 in Pennsburg Manor.

He was the husband of Darlene (Fels) Fox. They were married 44 years on May 19, 2023. Born in Quakertown he was the son of the late Roy & Lillian (Undercuffler) Fox.

He was the owner/operator of the former Lester Fox Cleaning Service.

Lester enjoyed hunting, fishing, and he was a collector of Antiques. He was a member of Christ Lutheran Church in Trumbauersville, where he was the former sexton.

In addition to his wife he is survived by his three children Stacey Fox, Michael Fox (Amanda Sanders), and Katie Fox; three brothers Larry Fox, Thoedore Fox (Rose) and Kevin Fox; three sisters Judy Stauffer, Phyllis Fox, and Denise Heckler (Scott); five grandchildren Emma, Ella, Izabelle, Annabelle, and Aveonna. He is also survived by a brother-in-law Donald Mease and a sister-in-law Elda Fox.

He was predeceased by his three brothers Terrance Fox, Leroy Fox, and Michael Fox and two sisters Sharon Fox and Marilyn Mease.

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

In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Multiple Sclerosis Foundation National Headquarters 6520 N. Andrews Ave. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309-2132.

lyDIa FRemeR, 77, passed away on June 7, 2023.

She was born in San Sebastian, Puerto Rico, on November 5, 1945 to the late Cruz Muniz and Lydia Muniz-Latorre.

Lydia resided in Quakertown for over 20 years. She also previously resided in Chalfont, PA, and Brooklyn, New York.

Lydia "GiGi" will be dearly missed and is survived by her family: Her son Edward Fremer and his wife Stephanie, daughter Kathy Fremer, sister Lucy and brother Angel and his wife Eleidy.

She is predeceased by her brother Caesar. GiGi is also survived by her many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly and many other loving family and friends. Spending time with her beloved rescue dog Murry gave her the greatest happiness. She loved Murry and enjoyed taking him on long walks. She loved spending time with her many friends. GiGi looked forward to her weekend calls to catch up with her nieces. All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown. (215-536-3343)

John FRancIS GIllIGan Iv of Murrells Inlet, SC died at age 28 on June 16, 2023. John was born on January 9, 1995 in Sellersville, PA to John Gilligan III and Alissa Amos.

He graduated from Quakertown Community High School and Upper Bucks County Technical School in 2013.

He was a self-employed, professional painter for 9 years.

March 28, 2022 was the most memorable and exciting day of John's life, as he welcomed his only son, John Francis Gilligan V.

John is survived by his son; John Gilligan V; his brother, Joseph Gilligan Sr.; his sister, Brea Tarantino; his parents, John Gilligan III and Alissa Amos; his grandmothers, Barbara Gilligan and Ann O'Neill; his grandfather, Donald Amos; and many family and friends. He is predeceased by his grandfather, John Gilligan Jr.

John was a devoted father and an avid outdoorsman. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown. (215-536-3343)

~Obituaries~

eRneSt c. GReaSeR of Allentown, PA passed away peacefully and loved dearly by his family on June 12, 2023 in Allentown, PA.

Ernie was born and raised in Pennsylvania, the youngest son of Frank Greaser & Hester (Cassell) Greaser.

Along with being a father, husband and eventually a grandfather, he was also a farmer, a realtor, and the owner of a roofing/siding business.

He married his wife, Mary Jane (Nakata) Greaser, in 1965, and they celebrated 57 years of marriage in October 2022.

He was a founding participant and organizer of the Perkasie Farmer’s Market and participated often in USDA sponsored “pop-up markets” in various Philadelphia neighborhoods, giving those without the opportunity to taste fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Along with his wife, Ernie is also survived by his 3 children and their spouses, Guy & Philecia Greaser, Jennifer (Greaser) Luna, and Rob & Jill (Greaser) Evans. He also has 5 grandchildren, Andrew Masi, Bernadette Masi, Morgan Luna, Raphael Masi, and Kailey Evans.

He is predeceased by his parents and siblings, Frank Greaser, Kenneth Greaser, Claude Greaser, and Mary (Greaser) Fluck.

His surviving sisters, Dorothy (Greaser) Detweiler, Ruth (Greaser) Moyer, and Marian (Greaser) Herman will remember their youngest brother fondly.

No service will be held for Ernie, but donations can be made in his honor to Friends of Blue Spring State Park or by contacting Family Pillars Hospice via phone at 610-625-2025. All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown. (215-536-3343)

JoSeph “Joe” Gunyan, 68, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on June 24th, 2023, at the Quakertown Center. Born in Brooklyn, NY, he was the son of the late Charles Gunyan and the late Marilyn Gunyan (Notter). Joe will be remembered by so many people, for so many different reasons. Some will remember him as “East Coast Joe” who drove One Man Up. He was very involved with and respected throughout the Volkswagen Community. He loved going to car shows and auctions. Others will remember him by his green John Deere hat he always wore. He was passionate about nature and botany, he even studied forestry at Paul Smith College. Joe loved adventure and road-tripped all over the USA with family and friends and made many memories along the way. Joe’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with his family and sharing the stories about his life with them.

Joe will be dearly missed by his sister, Mary Crotty; his niece, Christine Crotty and her son, Walter Colodonato; and his nephew, Michael Crotty.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown. (215-536-3343)

RonalD haSSleR, 77, of Trumbauersville died June 23, 2023 in the home of his daughter in Barto, PA.

He was the husband of Pamela Rae (Weitzel) Hassler. They were married 53 years last September.

Born in Center Valley, PA he was the son of the late Willard & Dorothea

He retired from Insaco, Inc. in Quakertown where he was a Tool Crib Manager.

Ronald was a member of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Trumbauersville. In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son Ryan (Kelly) of Parish, Florida, and a daughter

Stephanie Rota (Frank) of Barto, PA; a sister Norean Alpha (Eddie); and three grandchildren Frankie, Juniper, & Kaiya.

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

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church P.O. Box 569 Trumbauersville, PA 18970.

DavID heuckeRoth, 73, son of the late Frances & Lester Heuckeroth went home to be with the Lord on June 3, 2023.

He and his wife Connie were soon to celebrate their 53rd year of marriage.

David was an employee of Fibermark, Inc. for nearly 50 years.

After his retirement he served several years as a trustee on the board of the East Rockhill Chapel.

He was best known for his love of his Harley Davidson motorcycles and antique muscle cars, as well as being an avid fan of NASCAR racing.

He leaves behind his wife Connie, daughter Kathy, son David, two sisters Carol Fels and Virginia Stahler and her husband Dennis, a brother James Heuckeroth and his wife Laurie, and his furry little sidekick Queenie. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation for Forgotten Cats, Inc. Suite 422, 4023 Kennett Pike Greenville, DE 19807.

peteR maSSaRo, 74, passed away on June 24th, 2023, in his home.

Born in Brooklyn, NY, he was the son of the late Michele Massaro and the late Amelia Massaro (Zambrotta).

Peter will be remembered as a kind, patient, honest, and hardworking man. Peter proudly served in the United States Army and fought in the Vietnam War. He retired from The New York Department of Sanitation and went on to other business ventures throughout his life. Peter loved baseball and staying fit, competing in bodybuilding.

Peter will be dearly missed by his daughter, Evamarie Palmisano (Frank) and his Granddaughter Francesca, along with his nieces and nephews. Peter is predeceased by his brothers, James "Vinny", Sabino "Sammy" and Michael Massaro.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown. (215-536-3343) In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Peter’s name to Lewy Body Dementia Association.

BRaDley "BRaD" patRIck mcGuRk, 53, of Quakertown, passed away on June 4, 2023. He was born in Jackson Heights, NY on January 21, 1970 to Patrick McGurk and Christine (Farrell) Stewart. He was the loving husband of Stacy Lynn (Keeler) McGurk for 16 years. Brad loved the NY Yankees and Giants, and followed all forms of racing. For over 20 years Brad worked as a sign maker in various locations.

Brad is survived by his grandmother Catherine Conroy; parents; wife; daughter Lauren McGurk; siblings Spencer (Lauren) McGurk, Kate (Rob) Faucher, and Sarah McGurk; a plethora of aunts and uncles who were close to him; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his step-father John Stewart.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the family at tinyurl.com/2aklxfjl or by Venmo to @kgrida

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown. (215-536-3343)

RoBeRt “BoBBy” meaSe, 68, of Hellertown, PA, passed away on May 20th, 2023, in his home.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Robert L. Mease and the late Grace U. Mease (Hunsberger) and husband to the late Dr. Belle Anne Neiman Mease.

Bob graduated from Quakertown Community High School in 1972. He continued his education at Upper Bucks Technical School in aviation maintenance technology and many continuing education courses along the way. He worked at several manufacturing plants in Pennsylvania, Indiana, and North Carolina where he was a machine operator and plant manager.

He is survived by his sister, Vicki Mease Vasta, wife of Dr. Alfred Vasta Sr.; a niece, Allison Gwen Nicholson (Vasta) wife of Pete Nicholson; a nephew Freddy Vasta husband of Stephanie Cranston Vasta; four great nieces and nephews, Drew Nicholson, Alex

Nicholson, Addison Vasta and Grace Vasta, ex-wife, Cindy Johnson Mease. He was the uncle to many other family members and friends. He will be dearly missed by many including his beloved dogs, Tedi and Mason.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bob’s name to Last Chance Ranch.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown. (215-536-3343)

RIchaRD a neal, 73 of Sellersville died June 9, 2023, in GrandView Hospital, Sellersville.

He was the husband of Bonnie L. (DeHaven) Neal. They celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary last November.

Born in Lansdale, he was the son of the late Bernard and Sarah (Ruth) Neal. Before his retirement he was employed as a machinist by Tri-Kris Co., Inc. in Lansdale.

Richard enjoyed the outdoors especially fishing, sailing, camping, and grilling. He also enjoyed model cars and working on cars.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Michael (Karen), Paul (Dawn), Wendy Carr (John) and Jeffery (Kelly). Ten grandchildren, Danielle Mundondo (James), Heather Meyle (Kyle), Amanda Neal, Christopher Rotanz (Robin), Richard Rotanz, Erica Rotanz, Gabriella Neal, Nathan Neal, Domenick Neal and Sebastian Neal. Six great grandchildren, Taylor, Alanna, Sienna, Kandice, Everleigh, and Carson. A sister Carol DelVecchio.

He was predeceased by five brothers, Bernard, Edward, Robert, John, and Joseph. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown, PA.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association, the Diabetes Foundation, or the Lehigh Valley Hospital Burn Center.

helen v. novak, 94, of Bethlehem died June 1, 2023 in Country Meadows, Bethlehem. She was the wife of the late John Edward

Novak.

Born in Quakertown she was the daughter of the late John & Sophia Leonard. She worked in the Office at the Sears store in Bethlehem before retiring.

She was a former member of St. Stanislaus and a former member of the Ladies of Charities. She also attended the Notre Dame Catholic Church in Bethlehem.

Her most joy was her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren whom she loved.

Helen is survived by her four children Cecelia Updegrove, Nancy Ann Werner (Kevin), John, Jr., and his fiance Melissa Bakeman and Stephen; her brother Marean Leonard; eight grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother-in-law William Novak, and sister-in-law Gloria Grant.

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

RySzaRD h nowakowSkI, 68, of Richlandtown passed away on June 9, 2023. He was born in Kucice, Poland on January 17, 1955 to the late Zbigniew and Irena (Ziolkowska) Nowakowska.

He was the loving husband of Bozena D. (Cwalina) Nowakowski for 15 years.

Ryszard loved fishing and was a regular at Lake Nockamixon. He was a capable handyman and was always fixing something.

Ryszard is survived by his wife; children Lukasz Nowakowski, Anna (Adam) Pacholarz, Beata (Andrew) Dormeshian, and Kamila (Greg) Pauperowicz; grandchildren

TJ, Steven, Nathan, Natalia, Sebastian, Ava, Amy, and Zoe; siblings; and many other loving family and friends, both in the US and Poland. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Hedwig RCC at the address above.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown. (215-536-3343)

RonalD a paul, 65, of Quakertown passed peacefully at his home on June 24, 2023. He was born in Lansdale, PA on August 2, 1957 to Mary (Murphy) Paul and the late George Paul Jr. He was the loving husband of Barbara (Kintner) Paul for 44 years.

Ronald was a generous and giving man who always offered to help others, even if he was in pain himself. He always gave 100% and he always made sure everyone else was taken care of.

In high school, he played baseball and soccer. He was an avid Phillies, Flyers, and Eagles fan. He was a Scout Leader for several years. He loved the outdoors and regularly hunted, fished, and camped. He and Barbara loved to travel.

Ronald was a hard worker who started at around 13 years old delivering newspapers. He went on to be a machinist for 25+ years, then worked security for several years before working at Wawa for 10 years.

Ronald is survived by his wife; children

Melissa Gelatt and Timothy Paul; 2 grandchildren; siblings Roseanne (Bob) Schmidt, Mary Kalogeras, Robert (Debbie) Paul, Margaret (Larry) Hange, and George (Patricia) Paul; 12 nieces and nephews; many great nieces and nephews; and many other loving family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Bucks County SPCA.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown. (215-536-3343)

DoRothy patRIcIa RIce, known by her family and friends as Pat, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday June 12th, 2023.

Pat was born on February 24th, 1934, in Line Lexington, PA.

She was the loving wife of Samuel Dale Rice for 63 years.

She enjoyed traveling, spending time with her family, and gardening. She was a lifelong member of Deep Run Mennonite Church West.

Pat was the daughter of the late Arthur and Sarah Charles and the sister of the late Phyllis Tice and Art Charles.

She is survived by her husband; Dale, her son; Douglas and his wife Candy, and her five grandchildren; Samuel (Brittany), Hannah, Alyssa, Seth and Tristan and her sister; Dolores Myers. She will be dearly missed by all her family and friends.

There will be a visitation from 3:30 to 4:30pm and a celebration of life service will follow at 4:30 pm on Sunday July 2nd, 2023, at Deep

~Obituaries~

Run Mennonite Church West, located at 1008 Deep Run Road in Perkasie, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Deep Run Mennonite Church West or Camp Men-O-Lan.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown. (215-536-3343)

chRIStopheR “chRIS” SquIeR, 55, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, passed away on June 16th, 2023.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, he was the son of Cammy Burnham and David Squier Sr.

Chris graduated from Atlantic City High School.

He enjoyed watching hockey and football, was great at fixing cars, and loved going to the beach.

Chris will be missed by his parents, Cammy and David (Marilyn); his stepfather, Joseph Burnham; his daughters, Kourtney Kachnic and Kelsey Kachnic; his brother, David Squier; his cousin, Stephanie Dremow (Nick Sr.); his second cousins, Kori Robino (David), Nick, Drew (Kelly), and TJ (Kali); his sisterin-law, JoAnne Breiding (Dan); along with his extended family.

Chris’s cremated remains will be scattered at Birmingham Beach.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

John RoBeRt StewaRt, JR., known by his family and friends as Rob, went home to be with his Lord and Savior early in the morning on Friday, June 9, 2023. He was surrounded by the love of his wife and children. He was 69, turning 70 on June 27th.

Rob was the loving husband of Sandra (Sandy) Araujo Stewart. The couple shared 9 wonderful years of married life together, having celebrated their wedding anniversary this past February 23, 2023.

Born in Abington, PA he was the son of the late John Robert and Diana (Drueding) Stewart. After attending technical school in the 1980s he began working as a Unix system administrator and maintained this career path until his retirement in May of 2021.

Rob was an avid and talented musician and songwriter.

He and his wife attended Calvary Church in Souderton and had been involved on the worship team for several years.

Rob is survived by his wife; his three children, Katherine Stewart (Gregory Startzel), Robin Stewart, and John Stewart (Alysia Stewart); his grandchildren, Kiley Roediger, Odin

Stewart, and Fox Startzel; his siblings, Nanny Gifford, Ellen Hanson (Gilman Hanson), and Christopher Stewart; and the mother of his children Margaret Stewart Lieberman. He is also survived by three nephews, and a niece. A celebration of life service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 1, 2023, at Calvary Church in Souderton, (Heritage Hall, enter at Door 1), 820 Route 113, Souderton, PA. A light fare reception to follow.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd., Quakertown. (215-536-3343)

SuSan J. StuBeR, 76, of Quakertown died June 15, 2023 in St. Luke’s University Hospital, Bethlehem.

Born in Bucks County she was the daughter of the late Fred & Ethel (Cane) Steich. She retired from the former SOS Products Co., Inc. in East Greenville. Susan enjoyed nature and older American Muscle Cars. She is survived by two daughters Denice Frederick (Troy) of North Carolina and Marlene Greiser of Leesport; a brother Fred Steich (Martha) of Hereford; five grandchildren Amber Kugler (John), Erika Frederick, Joshua Curley, Joslyn Greiser, and Morgan Greiser; one great grandchild Jasmine Kugler. She was predeceased by a brother Thomas Steich and a son-in-law Christopher Greiser. She is also survived by her former husband Wayne Stuber. Services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 30386 Philadelphia, Pa 19103.

thomaS B. wIlt, JR., 79, of Quakertown died June 27, 2023 in his home. He was the husband of the late Carrie M. (Carfley) Wilt.

Born in Curwensville, PA he was the son of the late Thomas Bernard, Sr. & Olive (Gray) Wilt.

He retired in 2009 from Delbar as a machinist. He enjoyed fishing, bird watching, gardening especially tending to his tomato plants and working on cars. He enjoyed his grandchildren and great grandchildren and could always find one sitting on his lap. He and his late wife attended Christ UCC in Trumbauersville.

Thomas is survived by his four children Cheryl Wilt of Center Valley, Cynthia Erney (Geary) of Quakertown, Eric Wilt

(Amanda) of Allentown, and Penny O’Donnell (James) of Pottstown; a brother Miles Wilt of Curwensville, PA; a sister Sandra Mauk of Clearfield; 10 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by a grandchild, two brothers Rick, Carlton, and a sister Jane Fischer.

Services will be held on Saturday, July 1, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. Call 10:0011:00 A.M. in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. Luke’s Hospice Development Office 801 Ostrum St. Bethlehem, PA 18015.

Jeanette maRIe (wInkleR) yeRkeS, 94, of Sellersville, passed away surrounded by her family on June 23rd, 2023, at the Quakertown Center.

Born in Spinnerstown, she was the daughter of the late Horace Winkler and the late Marie Winkler (Rosenberger).

Jeanette’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with and caring for her family. She grew up on a farm with many siblings which family credits for her strong spirit and work ethic. She valued maintaining her independence into her early 90s.

Gram was a dedicated fundraiser for the National MS Society and served on the MS Walk Planning Committee.

Jeanette will be dearly missed by her children, Tink Lindsay and Lucky Yerkes; her grandchildren, Jamie Lindsay, Josh Yerkes, Tanner Lindsay, Tara Argue (Bryan), Tia Harris (Ed), Piper Yerkes, and Jordan Yerkes; her great-grandchildren, Chayse, Paityn, Charlotte, Blake, Lukas, Emersyn, Silas, Presley, Tyler, and Tucker; her siblings, Jimmy Winkler (Adele), Mary Hess, and Artis Wolfinger; along with many nieces and nephews.

Jeanette was predeceased by her siblings, Naomi Winkler, Mose Winkler, Patricia Gerhart, Snib Winkler, Pete Winkler, and Audrey Brady.

All are welcome on Saturday, July 1 to Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 135 W. Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951 for a viewing from 10-11:30am and a funeral service officiated by her nephew Rusty Wolfinger at 11:30AM.

A burial will follow at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery, Spinnerstown.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jeanette’s name to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society of Greater Delaware Valley

Retirement Contribution Limits for 2023

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has released new limits for certain retirement accounts for the coming year. After months of high inflation and financial uncertainty, some of these cost-of-living-based adjustments have reached near-record levels.

Keep in mind that this update is for

informational purposes only, so please consult with an accounting or tax professional before making any changes to your 2023 tax strategy. You can also contact your financial professional, who may be able to provide you with information about the pending changes.

Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)

Traditional IRA contribution limits are up $500 in 2023 to $6,500. Catch-up contributions for those over age 50 remain at $1,000, bringing the total limit to $7,500.

Remember, once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from a Traditional IRA in most circumstances. Withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. Roth IRAs

The income phase-out range for Roth IRA contributions increases to $138,000-$153,000 for single filers and heads of household, a $9,000 increase. For married couples filing jointly, phase-out will be $218,000 to $228,000, a $14,000 increase. Married individuals filing separately see their phase-out range remain at $0-10,000.

To qualify for the tax-free and penaltyfree withdrawal of earnings, Roth 401(k) distributions must meet a five-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal can also be taken under certain other circumstances, such as the owner's death.

Workplace Retirement Accounts

Those with 401(k), 403(b), 457 plans, and similar accounts will see a $2,000 increase for 2023, the limit rising to $22,500. Those

aged 50 and older will now have the ability to contribute an extra $7,500, bringing their total limit to $30,000.

Once you reach age 73 you must begin taking required minimum distributions from your 401(k) or other defined-contribution plans in most circumstances. Withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty.

SIMPLE Accounts

A $1,500 increase in limits for 2023 gives individuals contributing to this incentive match plan a $15,500 stop light.

Much like a traditional IRA, once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from a SIMPLE account in most circumstances. Withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty.

As a reminder, this article is for informational purposes only. Consult with an accounting or tax professional before making any changes to your 2023 tax strategy.

this article was submitteD by bob PoDraza of robert James investments at 1313 west broaD street, quakertown he can be reacheD at 215-583-5013 or at robertJamesinvestments com

American Legion Post 242 Update

BY DICK HELM

Once again the Veteran’s of Quakertown thank everyone for attending a very successful Memorial Day Parade and Service. For those who came out on their day off to set-up the portable stage and supply the first responder needs. Thank you! We wish to acknowledge Dee Freeman and his helpers for providing an excellent Public Address System. Thank you! For the drivers of the antique vehicles for escorting of our guests and veteran personnel. Thank you! For the American Legion Post kitchen staff and volunteers. Thank you! For the many more who thought enough of those who served and especially had their names read off during the ceremony as giving their all. Thank you! Most of all to all those townspeople who as the guest speaker mentioned – make Quakertown stand out in our county as a Norman Rockwell knit community. Thank You!!

As I write this I also recently wrote my check for $50.00 for my drawing tickets for the Spring Veteran's’ Drawing that will be held Saturday June 24th. My wife and I always enjoy attending the drawing not only for the great food provided by the Legion, but also for the fun and comrodary of those few hours in participating in drawing the name of the winners of 101 LUCKY TICKET HOLDERS.

Support of our Veterans is one of the FOUR PILLARS of the Legion. In supporting this drawing you make it possible for POST 242 to honor the real winners of this drawing-The

American present and past Service Veterans!!

The prizes total of $4750 given to drawing winners. I just called for an estimate of how much we have turned in so far and it is approximately $6000.00. This is a little under what we receive on the Thursday before the drawing. You can turn in your tickets, as many do, before the drawing starts at 8:00 PM. Remember this for future drawings. I hope I was able to see you at the drawing and if you were there, that you drew a name you recognize. As a side note, I usually hear my brother’s name in either one winning slot or more. I am usually just of puller of names and a consumer of the great food. Yes, I do win occasionally, but not near as often as my brother wins. That is what makes it fun.

Keep an eye on our new sign for “What is Happening.” Our Friday night specials, open to the public, are a big hit with many “SellOuts.” Especially when it is Cheese Steak night. Remember that the “Sons” breakfasts will restart in the fall.

Spend the 4th of July in Quakertown at the Park. This celebration is one of the best in the area, starting with a breakfast early in the morning with events throughout the day. The traffic seems to disperse fairly quickly and you can be home and don’t have to worry about being caught up for hours on some turnpike or interstate. Always remember those who either gave some or gave their all at this time of celebration of INDEPENDENCE & FREEDOM.

Lessons of History

Thinking back to one of my history teachers at QCHS back before our graduation in 1961; I remember many of his sayings. Little did I know that his teachings along with other history teachers after 7th grade would so inspire me to become so driven in life to pursue extensive reading and hands on research of specific events that made this country great.

During my lifetime I have seen totalitarian governments rise, fall, and some rise again. One thing I noticed is that they all seem to want to erase any historical records or sites from their general citizenship. Why?

Thoughts on Childcare

BY PALMA MOYER, RN

I remember the time that I was the Director of Nurses in a local nursing home. My youngest child was only 5 yrs old. Days when I could not find a babysitter, I would take him to work with me. Depending on the day, I would hide him in the linen closet with toys. But he also got to know some of the residents. They would play games with him in the day room.

One day my son came to me and said something is wrong with John, he is not himself. Sure enough, John was sick with pneumonia and was sent to the hospital. The residents enjoyed having a child to play

with and shared their memories with him. It was a pleasant time for all. My son received a lot of attention and the staff and residents were happy to have a child's perspective on life. This led to having other staff members bring their children to work, too. It was a win-win situation. The staff could work and be with their children.

Today, the parents have to hurry to drop their children off at childcare and worry about being late to pick up their children at the end of the day, besides paying a large amount of money for child care. My way seemed more beneficial to all concerned.

~As Always, Palma Moyer

Palma is a 1957 graDuate of temPle university hosPital school of nursing she shares her exPeriences anD PersPectives on nursing she can be reacheD at DonthelPmemoyer@aol com

Happy Anniversary

Today, as I write this, is my parent’s 80th wedding anniversary. They married in 1943…Leo was just turned 22, Judy 19.

The man that she saw the first time and immediately thought, “That’s the man I’m going to marry.”, was now her husband…or hubby as she called him.

They are both gone now, but reached a 59year milestone before dad passed.

I’m not sure why, but we don’t hear much about longevity in marriage like that anymore.

Perhaps because folks are living longer, or the stigma of getting divorced has evaporated. Most likely the decline of organized religions has contributed, as well as the arrival of the immediate gratification generation. And does the growth of women in the workplace factor in, as more men and women work together closely, and friendships develop?

Shelli and I both come from families with

loving parents married many years. Now in our sixties and together ten years, we were not that lucky in our marriages, although luck most likely has little to do with it.

I’m sure many studies have been done to determine the causes, but I can speak only of what I have encountered or seen.

Sadly, only 50% of first marriages are successful, which drops to just 33% for second marriages, and 25% for the third attempt.

As I look at our siblings, all but one ended marriage in divorce, and most of them resulted in a stable second…or third…partnership.

We have learnings from these unions and dissolutions, and when our son Mike was recently wed, Shelli and I came up with our ten credos for a long, successful, loving marriage.

If our ten happy years are any predictor, we gave them good advice.

John schaninger is a lifelong resiDent of Pennsylvania anD has liveD in uPPer black eDDy for over 13 years reach him at m12string@aol com

History usually was successful in its endeavors when it meant meeting the needs of the people. Starting with the Magna Carta in England, Our Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and brilliant form of government including the important “Bill of Rights.” Yes, this was challenged in the mid 1800’s but out of those challenging times we received the “Emancipation Proclamation.” It is so important that everyone who resides in this great nation have reference to these documents and that they are never eliminated from our school studies.

Getting back to my opening paragraph, one of these teachers was Mr. Wisneski, our famous high school football coach. Except for a few classes after major games when he fell to temptations of showing game films (especially if your class had football player}; Mr. Wisneski was able to instill in a simple way thoughts that still flash back to what he mentioned. The number one item he mentioned, in a time when we would get under desks during A-bomb drills, was that Russia certainly is a threat, but our biggest silent threat is China. A statement he made really sticks in my then country bumpkin mind. He said that if you stood at a point on the earth receiving nourishment and your needs, during your whole lifetime, taking into account births, deaths, etc. of the Chinese population, THE LINE of PEOPLE would Never END! He mentioned this in 1959! He called China, a sleeping giant. He also stressed that it was important to study history. The greatest civilizations that lasted the longest and made the greatest strides through civilizations growths were those who documented their losses and gains were the most successful and survived the longest. The period after the Second World War was still very brief and many of our teachers were actively engaged in that war. Mr. Wisneski stressed that one of the first things Adolf Hitler initiated was “The burning of the books.” (Destroy history.) He never expounded on this but gave the idea that in order to achieve his future goals he had to destroy the writings of the past. Mr. Wisneski was more than a great football coach; he was also an inspiration for his students who really listened to him.

I remember little from my grade school history lessons. Of course they taught about the Pre-Revolution history, The Revolutionary War period, The Civil War, and the relationship of history and what then was called Geography. Seventh Grade had us first introduced to ancient history, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the warriors from the plains of China. My first awakening to this need to study more was brought on by Mr. Strunk. His expertise for the Civil War period and how he presented to series of events leading up to the war, the involvement of Pennsylvania and Pennsylvanians in the war, and the reconstruction era sparked an interest in me that has never ended.

My wife has graciously shared walking through cornfields at Antietam, shared the scenes of the siege of Vicksburg, walked the steps of the home where Lee surrendered at Appomattax Court House, and of course experienced the two battles of Bull Run and the July heat of Gettysburg and small cavalry battles on the outskirts of that town on private land being preserved. She followed the trail of “The Peninsular Campaign” from Norfolk, past Williamsburg, though Seven Pines, and almost to Richmond. Speaking of Richmond, we walked through the home of Jefferson Davis. We also visited his exile home outside of Mobile, Alabama. We accompanied my sister Shirley and her husband Don to Salem Church where a relative of ours was killed in a skirmish during the battle of Chancellorsville. We found the place at Fredericksburg where the unknowns of that skirmish were interred one year late after the battle of the Wilderness. Mr. Strunk certainly lit a fire in me on the civil war. I am known as the persona of John Fries (pronounced freeze) of our local history. These are just a few of examples of the wonderful exploration that can be had in day trips or one or two day overnight motor trips that can be had in this wonderful world of history.

In our society today there is a tendency to want to eliminate history or modify the true details of historical events. We must not let this happen. Ben Souder left his family farm on Axe Handle Road to be part of a cause to not only keep the Union intact but to assure freedom “For All” and gave his all. One year later his bones were buried in an Unknown grave at Frederickburg and slightly over 100 years later a rose was placed in his memory on his grave by his progeny because history was preserved. Let us continue to strive to preserve what those who came before us have done. It is a common saying by us history buffs that this preservation of history not only lets us know of their physical efforts; but it is a deterrent for us “Not to repeat the same errors” that caused such strife. History is truly a stepping stone in paving a way, through study, for a better tomorrow!

Dick helm is a long time quakertown area resiDent anD regular contributor here at ubfP. reach him at rbh9@verizon net

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

Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.

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

Waving an American Flag

It’s been 160 years since the Battle of Gettysburg (that’s ‘Getis-burg’ if you’re a local). It was the costliest battle of the American Civil War. On Independence Day 1863, after 157,289 American soldiers had struggled for three days over the bloody fields, there were 7058 dead, 33,264 wounded and at least 10,790 missing people. The south-central Pennsylvania town of 2,500 was thoroughly engulfed by violence, but miraculously, there were only two reported civilian casualties: John Lawrence Burns (wounded), and Mary Virginia “Jennie” Wade (killed). Both became national heroes. Both are buried on Cemetery Hill with American flags perpetually waving over their graves.

John “Patriot” Burns (Sept. 5, 1793Feb. 4, 1872), was born in Burlington, NJ. Of Scottish ancestry, he claimed descendance from poet Robert Burns. Burns enlisted for the War of 1812, and fought in numerous battles, including Lundy Lane. He also participated in the Mexican-American War but was rejected by the Union for Civil War service due to advanced age. Instead, he joined the Army’s team sters. Again, due to age, Burns was discharged and reluctantly went home to Gettysburg where he was named constable.

Burns took his civilian responsibility se riously. When Jubal Early’s Confederate column temporarily occupied Gettysburg on June 26th, Burns was adamant in asserting his authority and was jailed for not cooperating. When the Confederates left, Burns was released and promptly arrested several Rebel stragglers. He diligently participated in the city’s preparations for enemy occupation until relieved by John Buford’s Federal Cavalry some days later.

On July 1st, when the Confederate attack on Gettysburg began, John Burns grabbed his antique flintlock and headed west to join the fighting. Enroute, he encountered a wounded soldier and ‘borrowed’ his more-modern rifle and cartridges. Burns approached Maj. Thomas Chamberlin, commander of the 150th PA Infantry, for permission to join his unit. Chamberlin later wrote that Burns’ “somewhat peculiar dress consisted of dark trousers and a waistcoat, a blue swallow tail coat with burnished brass buttons (as would be seen on a well-to-do gentleman four decades prior), and a high black silk hat, from which most of the original gloss had long departed, of a shape to be found only in the fashion plates of the remote past.”

Chamberlin was skeptical but assigned Burns to regimental commander Col. Langhorne Wister. “Can you shoot that rifle?” is all Wister asked. Burns could, so the 69-year-old man was sent forward to join the troops at McPherson Farm. Burns fought first with the 7th Wisconsin then the 24th Michigan. He stayed with the Iron Brigade throughout the afternoon, sniping at least one Reb officer from his horse.

By the time the Federals retreated to Seminary Ridge (and beyond), Burns had received an arm, leg and two minor breast wounds. He was exhausted, hurt and left behind in the ‘skedaddle.’ He crawled away from his rifle, buried his ammunition, and claimed to be a non-combatant searching for his lost

wife when captured. They believed him, so he escaped a ‘rules-of-war,’ summary execution as a non-uniformed “bushwhacker.” Burns’ wounds were tended by Confederate doctors. That evening he crawled off to the cellar of a nearby house and was later transported home.

After the battle Mathew Brady’s photographer, Timothy O’Sullivan, heard about Burns and visited him as he recuperated. He took Burns’ story back to Washington and promoted it. When President Lincoln came to Gettysburg (to give his famous speech), he insisted on meeting Burns. Burns accompanied the President on a walk from the David Wills House to the Presbyterian Church on Baltimore St. that morning. Burn’s fame grew. Bret Harte published a popular poem about him in 1864.

In the last years of his life Burns’ mind failed and he wandered. On a winter’s night in 1871, he was found, destitute and ill on the streets of New York City. He was cared for then sent back to Gettysburg where he died of pneumonia soon after. He was buried in Evergreen Cemetery. An Albert G. Bureau designed statue of John Burns, his fist clenched and carrying his borrowed rifle, was dedicated on McPherson Ridge in 1903. Burn has one of only two graves at Evergreen over which the American flag ‘officially’ waves twenty-four hours a day. The other belongs to Jennie Wade.

Mary Virginia Wade (May 21, 1843-July 3, 1863), was born in Gettysburg and worked as a seamstress with her mother on Breckenridge St. She was betrothed to Jack Skelly, a corporal with the 87th PA who was wounded at the Battle of Winchester a few weeks earlier (he died July 12th). When the battle began, Jennie, her mother and two younger brothers relocated to her sister’s, Georgia Wade McClellan’s, house at 548 Baltimore Street. Georgia had a new born to care for. Over 150 bullets hit the McClellan house during the battle.

At about 8:00am, July 3rd, Jennie was in the kitchen kneading dough. A Minie-ball passed through the parlor and kitchen doors and hit her. It penetrated her left shoulder blade, went through her heart, and lodged in her corset. She died instantly and collapsed to the floor. Two Union soldiers responded to women screaming in the house. They confiscated a coffin intend ed for Confederate General Wm. Barksdale and buried her in the McClellan’s backyard. The next day, Jennie’s mother baked fifteen loaves of bread from the dough she’d been kneading and distributed them to soldiers.

In January, 1864, Jennie was reburied in the Reformed Church cemetery on Stratton St. The following year she was relocated to Evergreen Cemetery near the grave of Jack Skelly. In 1882, the U.S. Senate vot ed Jennie Wade’s mother a pension: her daughter died in Union service—making bread for the troops. A monument to Jennie Wade was erected in 1900. It is the only site dedicated to a woman in the United States, other than Betsy Ross’s House, over which an American flag perpetually waves.

So, go wave your flag this July! But as you do, ask yourself, “What have I done to deserve this privilege?”

Jack schick is a long time quakertown

Haycock Fire Company Receives $5000 Award

QCHS Alumni Spotlight: The 2023 Honorees

BY RAY FOX '66

I hope Upper Bucks Free Press readers have been enjoying the QCHS Alumni Spotlight articles. This month the article will be taking a different approach and will be a review of the recent Alumni Association Annual Meeting held on June 3, 2023. In addition to the annual meeting there were three other significant events that day. We presented nine graduating seniors with the Alumni Scholarship in the amount of $1,500 each. We also gave our annual honorary diploma to Nancy Tirjan, and High School Assistant Principal Jason Magditch held the induction ceremony for the 2023 Wall of Fame inductees. Biographies of the nine scholarship winners, the honorary diploma winner, and the Wall of Fame inductees are included in this month’s Alumni Spotlight.

SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

The scholarship process is one of the most important activities for the Alumni Association. Our annual Designer Bag Bingo in March plus donations from alumni are used to fund these scholarships. Alumni President Melea Rupert, Alumni Treasurer Lori Kertesz, and Alumni Board Member Larry Benner presented the scholarships to the recipients. They are the students who are pictured with this spotlight article. Their biographies are as follows:

Evelyn Adebayo – On the scholarship application, students are asked the following question: What does the Quakertown Community and/or Quakertown Schools mean to you and how have they helped shape your life and goals? Evelyn wrote: “Although I became a part of the Quakertown Community my junior year, Quakertown has broadened my experiences, which will last for a lifetime. Coming from a small public school in Philadelphia, there were often days when school did not feel like a community. We did not have the luxury of having Chromebooks to take home or even an environment that allowed me to feel safe while learning. Here at Quakertown High School, although I encountered obstacles, I never felt “unsafe.”

Evelyn joined the Best Buddies club where students engage in fun activities with students who have special needs. Evelyn wrote, “this group showed me that we truly can all come together regardless of our differences.”

Evelyn was also a member of the Social Justice Alliance. This club promotes equality and searches for ways to stop injustice in the community. Evelyn wrote, “Overall Quakertown has shaped me into the woman I have become today, and I will take these experiences I have been able to endure into my life post-graduation. Quakertown has completely changed my perspective of the world as I have received opportunities to meet so many amazing people from various cultures and backgrounds.”

Evelyn’s family consists of her mother and 3 sisters, 2 older and 1 younger. The rest of their family reside in Nigeria. Evelyn has committed to attending Temple University to major in Nursing with the goal of becoming a pediatric nurse.

Jack Diliberto – Jack plans to attend the University of Delaware where he has decided to start with an undeclared major, with an interest in Mechanical Engineering, Sports Medicine, and Sports Videography/Photography and editing. When asked what the Quakertown Community and schools mean to him, Jack responded: “The Quakertown Community for me means home. It has given me lifelong friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. From playing various sports in front of my friends to volunteering in the community, Quakertown has al-

lowed me to grow and mature into the person I am today.” The activities that made the biggest impact on Jack are National Honor Society which allowed him the opportunities to volunteer with both the Richland Elementary Parent Teacher Organization and with the “Learn to play Hockey” program at Steel Ice. Best Buddies also had a big impact as it allowed Jack to help the students feel more inclusive within our high school. Jack was the Captain of the Quakertown Ice Hockey Team as well as the Lacrosse Team. He has also played Ice Hockey for the Lehigh Valley Youth Phantoms and the Genesis Hockey Club. Jack’s family consists of his mother and father and his 2 brothers, one older and one younger.

Sydney Fronheiser – When asked how the Quakertown Community and schools have helped to shape her life and goals, Sydney’s response was: “Quakertown has helped me chase my passions and helped me better the community. Last year, a couple of my peers and I began proposing the idea of building a greenhouse for the school. Although there seemed like an unending number of steps to get this project approved, we experienced nothing but encouragement from our teachers and administration. Just recently we saw our year of work come to fruition with the building of a greenhouse. With the support of the school board and the Quakertown Community Education Foundation grants, we will take our original dream further and transform the barren courtyard into a prospering and sustainable garden. This dream could never have happened without the support of the school and our surrounding community.”

Besides co-founding the Garden Club, Sydney says volunteering at Logan’s Heroes Animal Rescue and being a member of the Field Hockey Team had the biggest impact on her. I began volunteering at Logan’s Heroes during the pandemic. Not only was this an opportunity to escape my house during the lockdown, but I also gained knowledge and patience from these animals that had been horribly abused before they came to us. Being on the Field Hockey Team not only gave me lifelong friendships, but also taught me important lessons on teamwork and persistence. Sydney’s family consists of her mother and father and her younger sister who is 15. Sydney has committed to attend Marist College on the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie NY where she will major in Computer Science and minor (or double major) in Environmental Science.

Margaret Gowin - In her application, Margaret's friend Joshua states, "Often what makes the difference in a school is a smile. Just by being charismatic and outgoing, Margaret has had a lasting impact on dozens of students. ... her smile is often the difference that makes a room a more pleasant place to be. I think her charm and personality will take her to great places."

Margaret has been accepted into West Chester University's Honors College where she plans to study history in hopes of becoming a middle / high school teacher. She wants to thank her eighth-grade social studies teacher, Mr. Goerlitz, who inspired her and nurtured her love for history. During her field study she was able to be guided and encouraged by Ms. Marriott. Margaret states, "The field-study program gave me the opportunity to get a prerun of teaching to see if I enjoyed it. It allowed me to interact with students and to learn different skills and techniques of teaching. Before, I was uncertain if I really wanted to go into the field of teaching, but after my field study with Ms. Marriott, I was certain teaching is what I wanted to do."

To say that Margaret is busy is an understatement. In addition to a stellar academic record that includes many honors and AP classes, Margaret holds down a part time job, has volunteered with the Knights of Columbus and Scout Troop 55. In school she was elected treasurer of the Mock Trials Club and was the driving force behind the founding of the high school's Dungeons and Dragons Adventure Club where she is serving as its first President. Margaret states that the work involved in forming the club taught her valuable lessons in leadership.

In closing I will return to Margaret's friend Josuha who states, " Margaret has a go-getem attitude... I think her infectious charm and personality will take her far."

Julia Henry - Julia's world must be a world of an alternate time in an alternate universe. A place where days are longer than our days, where time slows down, where seemingly superhuman tasks become the norm. How else can you explain the amount and level of accomplishments that Julia has achieved in just the past two years?

Academically Julia has earned a 4.0+ grade point average that included over 10 Advanced Placement and Honors courses, and will be graduating in the top 10% of her class.

Julia has received the following awards: The AP Scholar with Honors Award, Union League of Philadelphia Good Citizenship Award, QCHS Student of the Month Award, Girl Scout Gold Award as well as the Silver Touch Award, elected to National Honor Society, One of six QCHS students to win the Q-Rock Award, Pennsylvania Certificate of Merit by scoring among the top SAT / ACT score in Pennsylvania, and Future Business Leaders Award 3rd Place for Journalism.

During High School she has participated in several activities outside of school including the following: Congressman Fitzpatrick's Congressional Student Ambassador Task Force, Pennsylvania Free Enterprise WeekBusiness and Leadership Training Program, Rotary Leadership Development Camp, HOBY Leadership Conference, Career Pathways Field Study with a focus on Sports Journalism where she has worked with the Philadelphia Inquire sports columnist / mentor.

In the High School, she has participated in the following: Editor of Paw Prints, the official newspaper of QCHS, played basketball and softball, elected to, and serves on Student Council.

She is the High School liaison between Richland Elementary School and high school student volunteers, was an Outdoor School Counselor, Marching Band and plays French Horn in the Wind Symphony where she occupies the Honors Chair.

Beyond the school day Julia volunteers at the Care and Share Thrift Store, she is a coaching assistant with local CYO Basketball team and helps with Delaware Valley Universities' Feed My Starving Children Program.

In her spare time Julia holds a part-time job as a clerk at the Stacks Bookstore in The Quakertown Farmer's Market.

After this remarkable High School Career Julia will be attending Penn State University's Schreyer’s Honors College where she plans to study Journalism, with a focus on Sport Journalism and Broadcasting.

Finally, she mentions that she will miss Friday Night Football games the most. Playing in the Marching Band, she marveled at the en-

team. It was a community and she will miss being a part of that.

Elana Kara - Elana states "The Quakertown Community means home to me, not only in the context of it being the location where I live, but also because it is comforting to me. I know that the teachers and administrators within my school have our best interest in mind. In addition, the greater Quakertown Community has helped shape me to be the person I am today because it encourages me to be the best version of myself.

Elana is always up to a challenge... whether it be in a leadership position at school or in the choosing of a university far from the comfort of her friends and family here in Quakertown. After graduation. Elana will attend The University of Tennessee / Knoxville to study business / finance with a focus on accounting. She chose Knoxville because she found the campus to be "a hidden gem" She especially likes the "vibrant atmosphere, its tight-knit community and its intense athletic spirit." The fact that she will be far from home is to her a challenge and an opportunity to learn from living in a new environment.

During her four years at Quakertown Elana has been involved in many school and town activities, including Key Club, Mini Thon, Best Buddies, the National Honor Society, Prom Committee among others. Elana states that these clubs "had the biggest impact on me because they provided me with countless opportunities to get involved and give back to the Quakertown Community."

Maybe this is why she chose to become a Tennessee Volunteer.

Finally, Elana wants to thank all the people that made her life so special. She did not have a traditional childhood but wants to let her mother know that she thinks of her as a role model and that she has a tremendous amount of respect and appreciation for all that she has done for her. In addition, she wants to thank her grandparents for all the love and support they have provided for her.

Jacob Lewis – Jacob has lived in and been part of the Quakertown School District his entire life. In his application for the scholarship, he wrote, “QCSD has played a massive role in shaping who I am today – having taught me nearly everything I know…or has given me the skills required to learn them…and to succeed in the real world.” He plans to attend Penn State Lehigh Valley Campus to study mechanical engineering. His dream job is to work alongside other engineers and scientists assembling the technology and machines that will propel humanity into the Space Exploration Age. As an Upper Bucks County Area Vocational Technical Student, his study in Mechatronics and Robotics has consistently made him more interested in Engineering and has given him hands-on experience.

In his Junior and Senior years at QHS, he participated in the National Robotic League Battlebots, which is an international competition. This gave him real experience with the engineering design process to build the most efficient robot for the application.

In addition to his parents, Jacob has two older brothers, Alexander and Zachary, Jacob believes in doing random acts of kindness every day. His tech school teacher writes, “Jacob has demonstrated the dedication and self-discipline to conquer the rigor of such a technical curriculum. He repeatedly demonstrates the self-motivation, dedication, and organizational

to study Finance. It is his hope to become a financial advisor or a financial analyst. Lucas writes, “Quakertown means a lot of things, it is my home. It is where I grew up. It is where I made my first friends. It is where I work and go to school.” Through the School’s QROCK program, Lucas has developed important qualities such as resilience, ownership, community, and kindness. Lucas believes that, of all the things he has done in High School. Best Buddies has definitely had the biggest impact on him…allowing special needs students to create friendships through monthly meetings. As a peer buddy, he has a one-on-one relationship with a student. Seeing the smiles on the buddies faces makes him feel very good inside. “These special students are no different than anyone else and they deserve to have the same opportunities.”

Lucas’s family includes his mother, father, and an older sister. A peer had this to say about him,

“Since getting to know Lucas as a sophomore, he has become my best friend and biggest supporter, as I have become for him. He is an unbelievably kind person who would do anything to help those he loves.”

Emily Wehr – After graduation, Emily plans on attending Bucks County Community College to achieve an associate degree in criminal justice. She then plans to continue her studies to include a bachelor’s degree from a four-year college. Her ultimate plans are to enforce her degrees in the field of law to become a detective and work her way forward. Having moved to Quakertown from Yardley when she was 12, she found she was warmly welcomed by many people throughout the community. Emily states, “I found I was increasingly more involved and happier in my life here in Quakertown.”

Emily has been involved in numerous activities both in and out of school. She participated as a volunteer for the Quakertown Borough as a freshman. It was her design that won the Borough’s drawing contest for the new Memorial Park Playground. She also represented QHS in HOBY, the PA leadership program and was then chosen to represent Pennsylvania at the HOBY WLC (World Leadership Congress).

In addition to her mother, Emily is the eldest sibling in her family with two younger sisters.

Emily feels that the community has helped her gain who she is as a person. This is especially true of the people she met in High School. “They are some of the sweetest people in my life,” she says. Although she has been through a few hardships throughout the years, she says, “I make the best out of every situation and I am so very grateful for everything in life.”

In closing, a peer wrote this about Emily, “I have known Emily for about six years and have been so lucky to see her grow into the smart and ambitious girl she is now.

After joining the tennis team during her sophomore year, the different cliques and friend groups merged. She brought unity, fun and positivity to the team. By her senior year, she became captain of the team.

Emily hopes to work as an FBI Agent.

HONORARY DIPLOMA RECIPIENT

The Honorary Diploma was presented by Alumni Association president Melea Ruppert. Nancy Tirjan is a highly qualified recipient of this diploma. The criterion for this diploma is someone in the community who is not a Quakertown High School Graduated but who has contributed significantly to either the School District or the Community. Nancy’s biography is as follows:

to the position of Bank Manager. She stayed home for 12 years when her daughters were growing up but did part-time bookkeeping for a local company and retail work for BonTon during those years.

Nancy retired from a 25-year career as a Kitchen/Bath Designer, for Shelly Lumber Co followed by Wehrung’s Lumber & Home Center. Nancy’s husband Fred graduated from QCHS, Class of ’67 and his siblings are QCHS alums too. Continuing that family tradition, Nancy and Fred’s two daughters also graduated from QCHS, Kathryn in ’01 and Elizabeth in ’03. The most joyful blessings in their lives are their 3 very young granddaughters, Elenore who is 3 years old, Alexis who is 17 months old and Vivian who is only 2 months old.

Nancy served on the Quakertown School Board for 20 years during which time she served as Vice President and President. When her daughters attended Quakertown Elementary, she served as a member and as President on QE’s teacher/parent organization once known as TPO but Nancy helped promote the change of the name to PIE (Partners in Education) which is still an active organization under that same name. Nancy was also a Girl Scout Leader and Cookie Mom. At Quakertown United Methodist Church Nancy is currently serving as the Board of Trustees Chair. She also volunteers with the church’s annual Chicken BBQ fundraiser and has served on the Staff/Parish Relations Committee.

One of the questions on our nomination form is “How has the candidate helped others?”

When I asked Nancy this question, she responded by saying “I have been helped by others much more than I have helped them.” I live by JFK’s famous speech motto: “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.”

Nancy certainly exemplifies that motto in all she does for her family, for her community, and for her church.

WALL OF FAME HONOREES

The Wall of Fame inductees for 2023 include Jennifer Donley (Class of 1998), Josephine Sorbello (Class of 1946), and John Weaver (Class of 1982). Any QCHS Alumnus may nominate candidates for the Wall of Fame. Information and application for the nomination is found on the QCSD Web Site. After nomination, there is a five-person committee who reviews the nomination forms and biographies of the candidates. The Committee is chaired by the Sr. High School Principal. This year’s inductee biographies follow. Their photos are as they appeared in their Senior Yearbooks.

Josephine Sorbello – Josephine’s stage name is Jan Shephard and she is better known by that name. She was both a television and movie actress and moved to Hollywood in the 1940’s. Television shows where she was an actress included Gunsmoke, Bonanza, Perry Mason, and the Lone Ranger. Movies where she was an actress included King Creole and Paradise, Hawaiian Style. Josephine still lives in California. Accepting on her behalf was David Fosbenner, who nominated her and whose mother graduated from High School with Ms. Sorbello.

Pittsburg in Comparative Education. He is a member of the International Human Education in the Third Millennium Group. He worked as a college professor at several different colleges and universities. Currently, John is a professor at Georgia Southern University. He has published four books and has been a significant contributor to many research articles and other publications.

In his acceptance speech, he gave sincere thanks to the Quakertown School District for the education he received and specifically mentioned Charles Vaccaro and Dennis Walters for helping him develop his writing skills. He also mentioned Douglas Peiffer for instilling an interest in studying history. He emphasized the importance of education.

Next month, the articles will return to the more traditional format of focusing on one specific graduate per article.

Abington High School in 1970; she earned a 2-year associate degree from Wesley College and then a bachelor’s degree from Temple University, both in Business Administration. Nancy’s first professional job was with Philadelphia National Bank where she rose

– Jennifer was first in her graduating class at Penn State University and was a Fulbright Scholarship winner. She also graduated from the University of Arizona with a PhD in Astronomy and Astrophysics. She spent ten months in Australia at Australia National Telescope. From December, 2012 to April, 2013, she was a Hubble Fellow at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Today, she is a scientist at Los Alomos National Laboratory. Accepting on Jennifer’s behalf was her mother.

John Weaver – After High School, John enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He graduated from Alderson-Broad College with a bachelor’s degree in European History and Political Science, He completed his master’s degree at Villanova University in German and Italian History. In 1994, he received his Doctoral Degree from the University of

The Quakertown Community Alumni Association encourages alumni to participate in the Association activities. Its mission includes fundraising to provide scholarship opportunities each year for graduating seniors. Please check out our Facebook Page “Quakertown High School Alumni Association” and the Alumni page of the QCSD.org website for more information. We are a 501C3 organization and always welcome any contributions toward our scholarship endeavors. If you are interested in donating, please email Qchsalumniboard@gmail.com and you will receive instructions on how to do so. Comments and ideas for future articles can be sent to Ray Fox at rdefox@msn.com.

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

QCHS Class of 1958 Celebrates 65th Class Reunion

The Quakertown Community High School Class of 1958 gathered for their 65th Reunion at C & C Lounge, Quakertown on Friday, June 16. Some classmates traveled from Florida, Colorado, Montana, Tennessee, Vermont, Connecticut, and Massechusetts. A fun time was had by all! submitted photo

New Vitae Wellness and Recovery Celebrates 40th Anniversary

New Vitae Wellness and Recovery, a holistic support-based facility focused on helping individuals with behavioral health challenges achieve their goals, is pleased to announce their 40th anniversary.

Incorporated in 1983 as Tri County Respite, New Vitae provides a wide range of treatments that promote personal wellness including individual and group therapy, peer support services, medication management, and Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (dTMS). Specialty areas include brain injury, behavioral health, and addiction, with a focus on holistic care for residents and those who support them.

New Vitae was established by Anne Mills and her son Adam Devlin to serve the needs of populations that had been traditionally underserved by behavioral health care, including young adults, veterans, and individuals with traumatic brain injuries. Prior to that, Mills and her family had provided respite services to veterans in their home.

“As a social worker, my mother’s mission was always to serve those who needed compassion and care in their most challenging times,” Devlin said. “She believed in focusing

on the wellness within each resident to help them with their recovery. Early on, we knew we had a unique niche.”

Over the years New Vitae has grown to fit the changing needs of its residents, offering a wide range of residential and outpatient programs. Today, with close to 300 staff members, New Vitae continues to provide ethical, holistic, strength-based care to its residents, helping support their right to meaningful and fulfilling lives within their communities.

“When my mother and I officially incorporated our family business we could not have imagined that it would ever grow into the New Vitae of today,” Devlin added. “We have a legacy here we can all be proud of continuing. I thank all of our employees for everything they do each day for both our residents and for each other.”

As part of a series of yearlong anniversary events, New Vitae commemorated this milestone with a celebration at Lake Nockamixon State Park on June 25th. This special gathering included food, live music, and games. A formal anniversary gala is scheduled for June 2024.

'Sounds of Summer' Concert Series Kicks Off in Quakertown

Quakertown’s Sounds of Summer concert series at the Univest Performance Center got off to a soggy start this season. Rock legends Blue Öyster Cult opened the outdoor concert series to a wet but very enthusiastic crowd of approximately 1200 people on June 26. The band delighted the crowd with

Opening for BÖC was The Sedonas.

The series continues with country star Chris Lane on July 7 and alt-rock band Switchfoot on July 8. More information on the Sounds of Summer series can be found at quakertown. org/concerts. The Upper Bucks Free Press is once again a proud sponsor of the Sounds of Summer Concert series.

Employment Opportunities

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

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

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

Kulp Roofing & Construction is hiring gutter installers/technicians

Competitive wages for experienced technicians but will train.

Daily requirements include installation of gutter, soffit, fascia & gable trim, and a variety of gutter guards. Self motivated, honest and good attitude individuals will thrive in our organization. A valid driver's license is a must. Learn/ develop a great career and skill set not just a job with a friendly family owned company. Paid vacation and health benefits after 90 days. Reply in person 641 S West End Blvd, Quakertown PA or call 215-538-0618 or email Mike@kulpservices.com

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

Common Mistakes In Estate Planning

BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ.

When was the last time you reviewed your estate plan? If you can’t remember, or the answer is “when I went over them with my attorney before signing”, that may need to change. Due to ever changing life events and tax laws, you should review your plan every 3-5 years to help maintain the plan. In this article I’ve put together a list of common mistakes in an outdated estate plan. If one or any of these situations apply to you, then it may be a good idea to sit down with your estate planning attorney.

1. Communicating with your beneficiaries: Do the beneficiaries in your estate plan know what you intend to leave them when you die? Have you given them the names of individuals they should contact in the event of your death (attorney, trustee, insurance agent, etc.)?

Handling these issues ahead of time will make your estate administration much easier when the time comes.

2. Review your life insurance policies: Is your policy still competitive with the current market? If you are the policy owner, does it still make sense for you to be the policy owner or would it make sense to have it owned by a trust?

3. Maintain your philanthropic goals in your estate plan: If you are someone who has a desire to give back to the community during

life, don’t forget to include that passion in your estate plan. There are many ways to include charitable gifts in your estate plan, and more often than not, those charitable gifts in your estate plan will come with tax benefits and potentially increase the net amount you pass on to your other beneficiaries.

4. Is the tax saving strategy still relevant?

Notorious B.I.G. hit the nail on the head with “Mo Money Mo problems”. With more wealth comes more tax issues – not only income tax issues, but also gift tax and estate tax issues. In 2021 the federal estate tax exemption is $11.7 million. This means that upon their death, a citizen may transfer up to $11.7 million (double for married couples) via

their estate plan or intestacy, free from federal estate tax. But this was not always the case.

In 2001 the federal estate tax exemption was $675k. and over the next 20 or so years it rose steadily (except for 2010 – when there was no estate tax at all). My point is, if your estate documents contain an estate tax savings plan that was prepared a number of years ago, it may be outdated and may not be appropriate for your situation anymore.

5. Your children have grown up: When you have young children, a key aspect of an estate plan is naming a guardian. But if your child has now grown up, it is very likely that a guardian is no longer necessary. But there may be other factors to consider: Is your child

financially responsible? Do they have any judgments against them? Are they married? Have children? As these new situations arise, they should be properly addressed in your estate plan.

6. Are the right people still named as your Executor/Trustee? Executors and trustees are those individuals (or corporations as well) who have been appointed to take control over assets (executor controls estate assets/trustee controls trust assets) for the benefit of others (beneficiaries). Executors and trustees are both generally appointed within their respective estate documents – executors are appointed in wills and trustees are appointed in the trust (which can also be set up within a will, but that is a conversation for another time). Executors/ trustees should be people whom you trust. Not only are they responsible for managing assets, but they also have to pay debts and handle tax filings. Take some time to review who you appointed for these positions. It is possible that these appointments may need to be adjusted over the years as well.

is a

Japanese Beetles are the pests most associated with the month of July. Japanese Beetles (Papillia japonica) overwinter as larvae (grubs) in the soil. They move toward the soil surface as the soil warms and continue to feed on grass roots. Larva mature from late May through June and molt to pupa in the soil. Adults can emerge from late June through July. Beetles are most abundant during July and the first two weeks of August. Japanese Beetles skeletonize leaves, but the damage rarely kills the plant. Japanese Beetles prefer to feed in full sun in the heat of the day. You can minimize damage by “harvesting” beetles in the morning. You can just “squish” them while wearing gloves. Or, fill a jar half full with water, add a few squirts of dish soap, then flick the beetles into the jar. They are quick to fly so hold the jar under the leaves of the plant and “knock” them into the jar.

The use of lures is not suggested. The pheromones can lure beetles from your neighborhood into your yard.

Note: Writing this article on June 24th, I “squished” my first Japanese Beetle. I expect by the time you read this article they will be out in full force.

in the evening favors spore production of this group of fungi, while low humidity in daytime favors dispersal of the spores. Fungicides can help prevent Powdery Mildew. Best practices are to water plants only during the morning and never on the leaves or stems. Give your plants room to breath. Trim out overcrowded plants. Move them to a new location or share them with a neighbor or friend. Powdery Mildew is unsightly, but will not kill the plant.

Aphids have been abundant this year. Before you get out the pesticide spray hit them with a forceful spray of water from your hose. A lot of them will not be able to crawl back up on the plant. Repeated sprays should get the majority of them. Before you get out the hose look for Lady Beetle larva. Lady Beetles (Coccinellidae) will be attracted to them and their larva feed voraciously. Lady Beetle larva resemble little alligators.

Another garden nemesis is Powdery Mildew. Powdery Mildew is often seen on the leaves and stems of Bee Balm (Monarda), Cone Flower (Echinacea) and Phlox. Powdery Mildew is characterized by white powdery fungal growth on the face of leaves. High humidity

Recently the Garden Hotline has had several inquiries about Poison Ivy (Toxicodendren radicans). Poison Ivy is a valuable resource for wildlife, but can be problematic in the home garden. To remove small poison ivy plants from your garden, wear disposable gloves or put your hand in a plastic grocery bag. Remove the plant and turn your glove/bag inside out trapping the poison ivy inside. Immediately place in a trash bag for disposal. Do not compost or burn Poison Ivy. The toxic oil (Urushiol) that causes irritation can spread through the air. If desired you can spray the plant with Glyphosate products, then remove it when the leaves are dead. Be aware that Glysophate is a non-selective herbicide that will kill any plant that it comes in contact with. Use the same caution with a “dead” plant. The roots are still viable and Urushiol may still be present in stems. For a large infestation it is wise to call a professional.

Contact the Bucks County Garden/Watershed Hotline for help.

Bucksmg@psu.edu or 267-483-2020

Our Home Garden/Watershed Hotline is open Monday thru Friday, 9-12 and 1-4. Our new office is being staffed in person on Tuesday and Thursday between 1 and 4, and some other dates and times.Penn State Extension Bucks County, 576 Penns Park Road, Newtown, PA 18940

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

Think Local. Eat Local. Be Local.

Ok everyone! It is time for my yearly lecture. Please do not let your four-footed friends outside without a leash on. People will be setting off fireworks when you aren’t expecting it and your dog will take off. While you are indoors keeping your music and or TV up loud in hopes of drowning out the sounds. I know in many cases it’s impossible. My friend Linda lives in Allentown and it looks and sounds like a war zone there. Also let’s not

forget that dogs need water more often than humans. It’s how we cool off. Take water for us when we leave home and DON’T WALK US ON THE HOT PAVEMENT. We sweat through our feet. If we can’t get cool, we will have a heat stroke. Well enough of my lecturing. Hope you all get out and support your Fire stations carnivals. They are amazing volunteers and even give their time to raise money at these events. ~Love Peanut

PSAB Honors Individuals, Boroughs for Service to Community

The Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs (PSAB) announced the recipients of the Association’s prestigious service awards at PSAB’s 111th Annual Conference at the Hershey Lodge on Tuesday, June 5th. Awards were presented by PSAB President Edward Child, from Trumbauersville Borough and Awards Committee Chair Tammy Gore, Mayor of Fleetwood Borough, Berks County.

To promote interest in good borough government and to recognize faithful and effective service by elected or appointed borough officials, PSAB grants service awards to each borough official who is a member in good standing with the Association. These members must serve a minimum of 10 years at one or more boroughs.

Officials are also recognized for completing the Certified Borough Official (CBO) Program, a voluntary professional development leadership program for borough officials.

The following are a list of award recipients from the Upper Bucks area:

Thomas F. ChrosTwaiTe award 20 or more years oF serviCe

Lisa Hiltz of Pennsburg

Carol sambol award 25 or more years oF serviCe

Edward A. Child of Trumbauersville

Michael George of Trumbauersville board oF direCTors award 30 or more years oF serviCe

Frederick J. Potter of Trumbauersville

Lawrence G. Stevens of Hatfield

2023 Newly CerTiFied borough oFFiCials

Christopher Betz of Trumbauersville

Brenda Detweiler of Sellersville

Donald Rosenberger of Quakertown

PSAB is a statewide, non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to serving 956 borough governments. Since 1911, PSAB has represented the interests of boroughs and helped to shape the laws that laid their foundation. The Association improves and assists more than 9,000 borough government leaders through legislative advocacy, research, education, and group programs. Learn more at www.boroughs.org.

2023 Infinity QX60

Infiniti’s 2023 QX60 luxury AWD three-row crossover has a lot of competition in its class, but it also has lots to offer in the form of the latest safety technology, spacious interior, three years free maintenance and it’s a top safety pick after testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

QX60 is offered in Pure, Luxe, Sensory and Autograph trim models. We tested the AWD Sensory version and it was packed with luxury items and seating for seven.

We especially liked the chrome trim strips on the rocker panels with the name Infiniti etched in them. And the chrome trim elsewhere over the car is a nice touch in this day of chrome less vehicles like, for example, Tesla’s.

After a low 20-inch step-in into the attractive cockpit with its racy flat-bottom steering wheel, you’re treated to heated/cooled, perforated leather front seats that are nicely supportive, heavily padded and include a soothing massage feature that’s nice to have on long trips.

high. Flip them and capacity expands to 41.6 cubic feet for 45 inches of load depth. Flip the second row and there’s 75.4 cubic feet of capacity for 78 inches of depth. Beneath the aft cargo floor is an 8-inch deep, full-width bin for out of sight small item storage. It comes with slide-in separators to partition the bin into three smaller bins.

Perched unobtrusively atop the vertical stack, QX’s 12.3-inch infotainment display serves a host of functions like satellite radio, navigation, rearview camera with front and curb views, a settings menu, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto connectivity, weather reports, fuel prices, parking lot locations and much more. The display is touchscreen operable or by a rotary controller on the console.

QXs console houses the low-profile gear selector for the smooth shifting 9-speed automatic transmission along with a toggle drive mode switch for Personal, Sport, Auto, Eco and Snow modes. Flanking them is a sizable wireless phone charger that can accommodate the larger cell phones.

Over on the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a driver information display shows alerts, features, functions, drive modes and many more driving aids, some of which were annoying. Using the settings menu, I had to turn off a few alerts such as when approaching a stop signal a chime alerts you. There are other similar alerts I turned off as well.

QX60s second row 60/40 seat can actually seat three tweens with generous leg and headroom. Those passengers have their own HVAC selections that are embedded in the rear of the center console. The seatbacks fold and slide forward to ease third row access onto seats that are mainly for youngsters as leg room is on the tight side.

QX60 gets its grunt from a 3.5-liter, V6 that generates 295-hp and 270 lb/ft of torque for EPA mileage estimates of 20 city, 25-highway mpg with auto start/stop engine technology and coupled to the 9-speed automatic transmission. The 3.5 actually feels like a V8 under the hood and Sport mode provides an even greater linear explosion of power. The powertrain moves QXs 4,630-pound curb weight with ease and is rated to tow up to 6,000 pounds.

As for ride and handling, QX60 rides smoothly and quietly on Hankook 20-inch tires. It handles quite good for its size with quick, precise steering that makes this AWD wagon easy to park. Sharp turns produce no discernable body lean as QX60 remains stable.

QX60 received four out of five government safety rating stars for driver/passenger frontal crash and five for front/rear seat side crash. It wasn’t rated for rollover, hence no overall vehicle score.

QX60 comes with a long list of niceties like panoramic sunroof, Bose audio and safety features such as predictive forward collision warning, forward emergency braking w/ pedestrian detection, lane departure warning/ prevention, blind spot warning/intervention, rear automatic braking, rear cross traffic alert plus steering assist when activating cruise control.

Extra cost options included the Vision package ($1,500) that added adaptive front lighting, auto leveling, 10.8-inch head-up display, smart rearview mirror; Lighting package ($795) with welcome lighting and illuminated logo when opening the doors, scuff plate; and Premium Paint ($695) which took the base price of $60,600 to $64,785 with delivery.

QX60 comes with a 4 year/60K mile basic warranty; a 6/70K powertrain and complimentary maintenance for 3/30K miles.

As a handsome, classy, luxury AWD crossover, QX60 has a lot to offer and is attractively priced to compete or beat comparably equipped crossovers and SUVs.

QCHS Celebrates Graduation

Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship

Bible Baptist Church

Meets at HIghland Park Dining Hall

415 Highland Park Road

Sellersville, PA 18960

484-523-3333

www.biblebaptistcares.org

Pastor: Tom Harris

Bible Study Hour 9:30 am, Morning Worship

10:30 am, Services interpreted for the deaf

Christ Church United Church of Christ

101 N. Main Street

Trumbauersville, PA 18970

215-538-0142

christchurch10@verizon.net

www.christchurchisalive.org

Pastor: David Heckler

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

Join us at 11am Sunday. Halleleujah!

Christ’s Lutheran Church

1 Luther Lane Trumbauersville, PA 18970

215-536-3193

christselca@verizon.net

www.christslutheran.com

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

Church of the Incarnation

44 S. 8th Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-538-3787

Ardores@verizon.net

www.IncarnationQuakertown.org

Pastor: Most Rev. Thomas J. Kleppinger

Traditional worship, Biblical faith

Sunday 10:30am, Holy Days as announced.

Emmanuel Episcopal Church

560 S. Main Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-3040

emmanuelchurch11@yahoo.com

www.emmanuelquakertown.org

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

First United Church of Christ

151 S. Fourth Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-4447

info@firstUCC.net

Facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertown

Senior Pastor: Rev. Jon C. Bauman

Min. of Visitation & Pastoral Care: Elaine Ely

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

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

BY PASTOR JON BAUMAN

In the span of a week, the role of a pastor may call you to be a leader in a meeting, an advisor in one, a writer, a planner, a pastoral counselor, a maker of instant mashed potatoes in massive quantities, a public speaker, a dishwasher, a leader of a team, an officiant, a dunk tank volunteer, and a ton of extra roles thrown in there that vary from week to week. But the role of a member of a church can include many of these things as well. I’ve seen my church, coming from varied career fields, and some being retired, do an incredibly diverse set of tasks in order to support the youth on their mission trip, the kids in Sunday school, the community members in need, the women in the women’s guild, the property of our church, and many other worthy causes. It doesn’t matter if they've never worked an industrial dishwasher, cooked food for hundreds, or ran games for the kids… I’ve seen our church do incredible things when we all work together.

The point is: All of us are called to enrich the world around us with our faith in Jesus, and I am glad to see our church rising to that challenge, and having a posture that asks, “What next?”

The summer is a very busy time for our church. Even though many of our members go on vacation in the summer, we face the challenge of one of the most packed seasons of the year together. It’s a beautiful thing when the church comes together to follow our United calling. And when we do so, we get to know one another at a deeper level, we respect each

Good News Church 424 Juniper Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-4393

Pastor: David Markey, Jr.

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

Grace Bible Fellowship Church

1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N. Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-6096

grace@quakertownbfc.org

www.quakertownbfc.org

Sr. Pastor: Ron Kohl

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

Sundays 6:30pm; Tues: Ladies Bible Study

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

317 Juniper Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

267-373-9115

Pastor: Bob Stevenson www.juniperstreetbiblechurch.org

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

Morning Star Fellowship

429 S. 9th Street

Quakertown, PA 18951 215-529-6422

Pastors: John & Theresa Decker www.mstarqtown.org

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

Palisades Community Bible Church

8730 Easton Road Revere, PA 18953 610-847-2637 secretary@pcbchurch.com

www.pcbchurch.com

Pastor: Rev. Corbin Seltzer, Jr.

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

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

other’s hearts and passions, and our own sense of community grows as a result.

All of these events and ministries show us the beauty and the life of the Church of Jesus Christ, who is called to be his hands and his feet.

All of us have our own unique gifting and calling, given to us by our Lord to enrich those around us through embodying the love of Jesus.

And when we gather together, in worship and In service, we see the work of God unfolding into a world that needs the kind of hope that only God can give.

I encourage all of the followers of Jesus in Quakertown and the surrounding area of Upper Bucks County to keep listening to that broader calling from our God, and to join one another in following that calling, together. The church of our Lord is not meant to be divided; it is meant to be united in the efforts of a living, breathing, robust, and life-giving Gospel.

I’ll leave you all with a quote from St. Theresa of Avila:

Christ has no body but yours, No hands, no feet on earth but yours. Yours are the eyes with which He looks Compassion on this world, Yours are the feet with which He walks to do good, Yours are the hands, with which He blesses all the world.

Yours are the hands, yours are the feet, Yours are the eyes, you are His body.

Christ has no body now but yours…

Jon bauman is the senior Pastor at first uniteD church of christ in quakertown he can be reacheD at Jbauman@firstucc net

Pennridge Christian Fellowship 720 Blooming Glen Rd, Blooming Glen 18911 215-257-7309

pastor@pennridgecf.org

www.pennridgecf.org

Pastor: Thomas Vargis

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

Quakertown United Methodist Church

1875 Freier Road Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4992 barb@qumc.com

www.qumc.com

Pastor: Rev. Richard K. Brown II

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

St. Isidore Roman Catholic Church

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

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

www.stisidores.org

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

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

www.stjohnsrpa.org

Pastor: Rev Dr. David A Genszler

In person worship service Sunday at 9:30 am, Watch our Worship Service anytime on stjohnsrpa.org/sermon or on Facebook. Activity Center Rentals Open, Capacity 125, call 215-536-5027 to book.

St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown

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

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

St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley 910 Allentown Road, West Rockhill Twp 215-257-9643

stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com

www.stjohnsridgevalley.com

Pastor: Rev. Lauren Bruno

8:30am Traditional - 10:15am w/praise band. Grape juice & gluten-free wafers available. Adult Forum 9:40, Handicapped accessible. All invited and welcome to Share the Joy! St. John the Baptist Parish 4050 Durham Road, Ottsville 18942 610-847-5521 pastor@stjohnsottsville.org

www.stjohnsottsville.org

Pastor: Selvaraj Lucas, MSC

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

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

www.stpaulsqtown.org

Pastor: Rev. David Heckler

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

Pastor: Rev. Trudy Irving secretary@stpaulsucc.net

www.stpaulsucc.net

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

Pastor: Rev. Joseph Wames pastorjoe@springfieldmennonite.org

www.springfieldmennonite.org

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

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

www.trinityquakertown.org

Pastor: Dayle Malloy

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

“And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.”

- F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

Be Leary of Low HOA Fees

When you move into a house in a homeowners’ association (HOA) neighborhood, you might want the fees they charge to be as low as possible. Buying a home is a significant expense, and you might want to reduce costs where you can.

But are low HOA fees a good idea? You might assume smaller bills are better, which will be the case in many situations. But when it comes to homeowners’ associations, there are more downsides than you might imagine.

What is an HOA fee?

The homeowners association charges fees to owners within the neighborhood they are responsible for. The association maintains the common areas in the development, which costs money. HOA fees will almost always be present when buying a condo or townhouse.

If there are better facilities like a pool or gym, these expenses will be higher. If you buy a home within one of these communities, you will want to determine the HOA fees for the development before making an offer.

Lower HOA fees can attract potential homebuyers and current owners, but saving money isn’t always the best option.

The cons of low HOA fees

There are many situations where cheaper isn’t better, like if you are buying something that you need to last a long time or for safety equipment. But with HOA fees, it might not be as clear whether paying less to the association is a good idea.

These are some downsides to low fees:

• Less maintenance

The HOA can cut maintenance to reduce costs for a while, and residents might like this choice. But without regular maintenance, problems can be worse and more expensive when they are dealt with.

Small maintenance tasks can prevent bigger problems and improve the community for residents. It is better to make minor updates than wait until there is no other option and major infrastructure repairs must be made. This will take longer and cost more.

• Property values

If there isn’t enough maintenance in the community, it can negatively affect house prices. If this has been going on for a long time, there’s a greater chance that the condition will put off buyers and make selling a home more difficult, leading to lower values.

Potential buyers will notice the low maintenance levels when they arrive in the community. This reduced curb appeal will affect their initial impression of the home, and

they are likely to see the property in a worse light. This will make it more likely they won’t decide to make an offer.

• Emergency costs

If fees are low, there is unlikely to be much money saved for emergencies. So when something does inevitably happen, a special assessment is more likely.

A special assessment is a way to pay for unexpected expenses, and an HOA that has low fees could rely on this to fund costs. It is better to have consistent fees than pay a surprise bill.

When buying a condo, one of the most essential questions will be understanding the amount in the reserves and whether a special assessment is on the horizon.

• Inflation

Prices gradually rise, so standards and maintenance could slip if the HOA isn’t increasing fees appropriately. The HOA can’t suddenly increase fees by any amount they like either, with restrictions in the governing documents, and there could be state limits as well.

• Minimum Standards

There are state and federal regulations for minimum standards within an HOA. If the association doesn’t follow its legal duty, there could be additional costs to homeowners.

The Pros of Low HOA Fees

The only real advantage of low fees is happy homeowners. Nobody likes paying bills.

The board of the HOA will be more popular with residents, but this won’t last forever. If there isn’t enough money to cover maintenance costs, the association might rely on reserve funds, but this will run out.

With low fees, it will become impossible to maintain the common areas, and special assessments are likely to be more frequent. The community will get worse, and property values will suffer.

Avoid low HOA fees

While you might want to save money on paying the HOA, it is a cost that is essential to maintain the community and your property’s value. Though owning a home isn’t cheap, with mortgage payments, property taxes, utilities, and maintenance costs, choosing a home in a community that doesn’t charge enough could give you more problems.

Before you decide to buy a home within an HOA, check what their fees are. And if they seem low, it is better to continue searching for your next home.

sue Deily has been a realtor for 35 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

Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.

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