Upper Bucks Free Press • March 2022

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • March 2022

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

March 5

‘Girl Scouts Cookie Extravaganza’ 1pm5pm at Gridas Ice Cream, 36 N Main St, Richlandtown. While here, stop & grab a Girl Scout Cookie inspired Ice Cream Treat!

Slot Car Show 8:30am-1pm at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Selling cars, accessories & literature. Event Rm 201. FMI: 215-536-4115.

‘Cheers to 100 Years 2022 Auction’ 6:30pm-11pm at St. Isidore School, 603 W Broad St, Quakertown. FMI: 215-536-6052 or auction2022@stisidoreschool.com Maple Sugar Day 11am-1pm at Nature Ctr, 170 N Chapman Rd, Doylestown.

Free, donations welcome. Experience maple sugar collected/made during pioneer days. Bad weather cancels event. FMI: peacevalleynaturecenter.org

March 6

Sunday Breakfast 8am-12noon at Springtown Fire Co, 3010 Rte 212, Springtown. $9/adults, $5/kids 5-8, free/age 4 & under.

Yu Gi Oh Card Tournament, 1pm-4pm in Event Room #201. Hosted by Computer Realm Dept 407. Contact store to register.

Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. FMI: 215-536-4115.

Quakertown Rotary Bag Bingo 7pm at West End Fire Co, Quakertown. Doors open 6pm, games at 7pm. Tkts: $30/adv, $35/ door. BYOB Food /Drinks. FMI/tkts: visit FB page or email: Quakertown.rc@gmail.com or 267-375-9088.

March 7, 14, 21

Family Education Program on Addiction first three Mon. of month 7pm at Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. FMI: 215-527-3077. Register: 800-221-6333.

March 7, 14, 21, 28

Free Monday meals 5:15pm-6:30pm at Morning Star Fellowship, 429 S 9th St, Quakertown

March 9

Woman’s Club of Indian Valley will meet 1pm at Telford Community Bldg, 125 W Hamilton St. Masks required.

Representative of “Along the Way” offers single mothers hope for life’s journey. FMI: Woman’sClubofIV.com or 862-251-3076.

Dance Ensemble Concert at DeSales Univ.-Labuda Ctr, 2755 Station Ave, Center Valley. Showcases blend of new & innovative choreographic premieres. FMI: 610-282-3192 or psf@pashakespeare.org

37th Spring Auction 9am-2pm at Grace Christian School, 320 N Third St, Telford.

Live & online silent auction, food, kids’ show, game tent, moonbounce, bake sale, more.

FMI: 215-723-5896.

Film Festival 8pm-9:30pm at DeSales Univ.-Labuda Ctr, 2755 Station Ave, Center Valley. A platform for young filmmakers taking first steps toward a professional career.

610-282-3192 or psf@pashakespeare.org

March 19

March 28

March 11

March 17 to April 14

St. Patrick’s Day Party 6pm-10pm at The Gathering, 351 W Broad St, Quakertown. $35/tkt. Irish menu, BYOB or Beer Gdn (not included in price), Live music by Alex Buono Band, ‘Dancing on Eire’ Irish dance performance. FMI: 215-534-1363.

“Alice in Wonderland “ (Tues/Thur/ Sat, times vary) at DeSales Univ.-Labuda Ctr, 2755 Station Ave, Center Valley. FMI: 610-282-3192 or psf@pashakespeare.org

March 12 Quakertown Lions Hoagie Sale, $5 (Italian or Turkey). Must pre-order by March 5. Call Jim 215-536-1983 to order. Hoagies ready for pickup at QNB Bank on 3rd St, Quakertown from 9:30am-11am. Limited extras available day of sale.

FREE ‘to-go’ lunches to share, 9am-11am at First UCC, 4th & Park Ave, Quakertown.

Stop by & grab one while supplies last.

March 13- Daylight Saving Time begins Purse BINGO (doors open 11:30am) West End Fire Co, 1319 Park Ave, Quakertown. $30/adv, $35/door. Tkts: Rachel 215-9339738. Venmo: wefco18fund. BYOB, small refreshments available.

Souderton HS Cheerleading Basket Bingo 1pm-5pm at HS Cafeteria, 625 Lower Rd, Souderton. Tkts/$25. FMI: 267-474-0694 or jtisoskey414@gmail.com

March 15 ‘Spring Career Fair’ 2:30pm-4pm at Upper Bucks Technical School, 3115 Ridge Rd, Perkasie. Opportunities in Healthcare, Construction & much more.

FMI: tdeyoung@buckscareerlink.org, 267-580-3552, or TTY: 215-781-9553.

March 16 Trumbauersville Elem. Sch. 4pm-8pm, TPO Night at Spor’s, 22 W Broad St. Dine in/ Take out (20% donated to Tville TPO) FMI: tpotrum@gmail.com Virtual Support Group (suicide) every 1st and 3rd Wed. at 6:30pm. FMI/register: revivalsoc.com/events

March 17 St. Patrick’s Day Free Community Dinner (3rd Thurs. every month) 5:30pm (doors open 5pm) at First UCC, 4th St & Park Ave, Quakertown. All welcome, no need for reservations. FMI: 215-536-4447

March 18 to 20

Saturday Craft Show 9am-4pm in Rm #201.

FMI: Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. FMI: 215-536-4115.

Upper Bucks Celtic Festival, 11am-4pm in Downtown Perkasie. (r/d March 20) Irish music, performers, vendors, kids’ crafts, lots of contests, more. FMI: ubcc.org/celticfest

March 20 Spring begins ‘Welcome Spring Hike’ 2pm-3pm at Nature Ctr in Doylestown. FREE! Register: peacevalleynaturecenter.org. FMI: 215-348-6270.

Yu Gi Oh Card Tournament, 1pm-4pm in Event Room #201. Hosted by Computer Realm Dept 407. Contact store to register.

Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. FMI: 215-536-4115.

FREE Concert – “Country Jades” in Rm 201 at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. FMI: 215-536-4115.

March 21 Free Community Dinner (3rd Mon. every month). Pick-up 5:30pm at Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie.

March 26 FREE Shredding Event 11am-1pm by Richter Mobile Shredding across from Garden Ctr at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. FMI: 215-536-4115. Limited to 2 large bags OR boxes.

WWWA Wrestling, 6:30pm Bell Time.

Tkts: $20/Ringside, $15/General Adm. Call WWWA Office for tickets 215-362-7184 or stop by Raceplace, Dept 210 at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd.

Soup Fundraiser (deadline to order & pay is today) for pickup April 7 (9am-3pm) at UB Senior Activity Ctr, 2183 Milford Sq Pike, Milford Square. Ham/Bean or Chicken/ Vegetable, $7.50/quart. FMI/order: Sara 215-536-3066.

April 2 8th Annual Sporting Clay Shoot & Fundraiser Silvene Bracalente Memorial Fdn) Register now at bit.ly/3tibXEM

April 3 Designer Bag Bingo 1pm (doors open 12noon, food available) at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown. Tkts: $25/adv, $30/door. FMI: QCHS1979@gmail.com or 610-428-3349 for tickets.

Designer Purse Bingo 1pm (opens 11:30am), Dublin Fire House Auditorium, 194 N Main St. Bring own snacks/non-alcoholic drinks. $30/tkts, advance tkts call 908-892-5620.

April 9 Tails & Ties Rescue Gala, 5pm-10pm at Homewood Suites, 3350 Center Valley Parkway, Center Valley. Admission incl. live music, dinner, drinks, live auction. Fundraiser for Last Chance Ranch Rescue. FMI: pets@lastchanceranch.org Quakertown Bridal Stroll 4pm-7pm. Free walking bridal show features 30+ local shops/ services at The Gathering Place, 351 W Broad St. FMI: quakertownbridalstroll@gmail.com

March 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

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QCHS Field Study Program Makes Powerful Impact

BY GARY WECKSELBLATT Nicole Pasciuti’s internship with the Upper Bucks Free Press provided the Quakertown Community High School junior with the perfect opportunity to discover whether her passion for English and for writing would fit into a career as a journalist.

Thanks to the high school’s Field Study program, her experience at the UBFP helped her answer that question and save a lot of time and money in the process.

“The experience I had was amazing,” said Nicole, who learned that a journalism career is not something she will pursue. “I understand journalism a lot more now and it’s way different than I expected. Now I know not to major in it in college.”

For her Free Press “final project,” Nicole wrote about the importance of her Field Study experience. “I never expected to have opportunities of this magnitude in high school, so being able to experience them is amazing,” she stated. “I hope this program sticks around so other teenagers get to enjoy an experience like mine.”

Jennifer Carolla, a high school Assistant Principal and co-Administrator with Jason Magditch of the Career Pathways program, in which Field Study is a component, appreciated Nicole’s sentiments. “Our hope in building a Pathways program that emphasized Field Study experiences was to encourage students to participate in real-world learning opportunities,” Mrs. Carolla said. “Nicole’s story is one example of the positive impact that an experience like that can have on a student.

Students walk away from a Field Study having developed a greater employability skill set and having acquired a deeper knowledge of themselves and the field. Plus, according to the feedback we are getting from students, it’s fun to try something outside of the traditional classroom for high school credit(s),” said Mrs. Carolla.

According to Mrs. Carolla, one of the things the Pathways team consistently highlights is that it’s as important to find out what you don’t like as it is to find out what you do like, which is exactly what Nicole did through her Field Study. “Empowering students to make more informed and thoughtful decisions about their post-secondary plans is a main goal of our Pathways program,” Mrs. Carolla said.

Field Study experiences are open to all juniors and seniors at QCHS. Within the first semester at the high school, fifty-six students completed a Field Study. The career fields represented were quite varied. In addition to

the Free Press, examples of student placements include the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, The Upper Bucks Chamber of Commerce, Stranix Taxidermy, Value Engineering Inc., St. Luke’s Pharmacy, a dance studio, recording studio, environmental management company, chiropractic office, veterinary services, and local school districts, including QCSD. As part of the Field Study requirements, feedback on student performance and professional skills is collected from each career mentor using the school’s Pathways Field Study rubric. Pathways Coordinators George Banas and Laura Neilson then meet with each student to review that feedback and to listen to student reflections on their experience.

“Quakertown is doing something other schools are not doing,” said Marie Robinson, whose son Will, an aspiring sports marketer, enjoyed his Field Study experience with the IronPigs. “They recognize the need for this and give students this connection to the workforce before they even go to college or enter the workforce. These are amazing learning experiences these students are getting.”

Will, a senior, said, “For what I want to do later in life, to have these day-to-day experiences really worked to prepare me. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience.”

Brooke Ziemba, a senior and drum major in the Panthers Marching Band, is working at Strayer Middle School with Rachael Urquhart, its Band Director, to see everything that job entails. One day in class, a student handed her a nameplate for her desk. Brooke was beaming.

“It really opened my eyes that I can make a difference,” she said. “I am really making an impact. That was really special. I knew it was from the heart and I had made a strong connection.”

Brooke posted a photo of the nameplate to Twitter with the words “One of the middle schoolers I field study with made me this sign :,) Can’t wait to be a band teacher! @ StrayerMSBand” Mrs. Carolla and Mr. Magditch, the Field Study Administrators, acknowledge that these opportunities for students would not be possible without the support of the local community. “Our school district is part of a very special community,” Mrs. Carolla said. “We are incredibly grateful to our many industry partners who invest their time, energy and knowledge to help our students better prepare for their future. These are powerful school/community partnerships that we look forward to growing as our Pathways program continues to evolve.”

Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.

Don’t Touch My Food Bowl

I have clients that tell me that they can mess with their dog’s food while their dog is eating, YIKES! It never fails to amaze me that people actually think that this is how you’re going to make your dog more comfortable about their food bowl. Unfortunately, it could easily backfire. The worst scenario, messing with your dog’s food could result in a bite.

The owner maybe have inadvertently created a problem that might not have been a concern, but now they’ve taught the dog there is a reason to be worried about you coming near their dish instead of a dog happily munching away. Now the dog is on guard, ready to protect their food! It’s perfectly understandable; would you want someone to stick their hand in your food while you’re eating your dinner? Remember, we want our dogs to think it’s wonderful when people are approaching their dish while they’re eating. It’s counterproductive to scold or otherwise punish the dog for any type of food guarding behavior. Food guarding is a very normal behavior for dogs. Their ancestors would not have survived if they allowed anyone else to take food they spent so much time and energy scavenging and hunting.

Dog bowl etiquette for humans

To see if your dog is uncomfortable about you approaching their food dish, body language may indicate their discomfort. They may display any of the following signals: freezes and stops eating, or eats faster, gives you the big old stink eye, hunkers over the food while keeping the head over the dish while looking out of the corner of their eye, growls, snarls, air snaps, or bites Watch carefully for these signs! If you see any of these signs, leave your dog alone to finish his meal. If you currently have this issue, you should be calling a certified professional dog trainer.

While your dog is eating, walk towards them and stop when you’re about one foot away. If you see no physical signs of distress, have a very delicious real piece of chicken or cheese to add the treat to your dog’s bowl. Repeat during your dog meals at least a few times a week after several sessions. If done correctly, your dog will be happily anticipating the bonus and looks forward to your approach. You want your dog to think that you’re coming to give them things not take them away, Bone-appetit!.

Submitted by Marion C. O’Neil CPDT-KA, CTDI, owner and instructor for Molasses Creek Dog Training, LLC, Quakertown. She www.molassescreekdogtraining.com

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • March 2022

The Importance of a “Revocable Living Trust”

BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ. I have long been of the opinion that Living Trusts are not the “one size fits all” estate planning solution that many once claimed them to be. However, that does not mean that Living Trusts do not have their advantages. This article will highlight some of the advantages associated with Living Trusts.

1. Avoidance of probate and keeps affairs private.

While the probate process in Pennsylvania is not overly burdensome, there are some fees that accompany the probate process and once the probate process begins, the amount, manner and method of asset distribution become public knowledge. One of the key advantages to using a living trust to avoid probate is that the amount, manner and method of asset distribution stay private and for many people privacy is a key concern. A revocable trust can protect the privacy of your property and beneficiaries when you die. Since it’s not subject to probate, your trust agreement remains a private document. It doesn’t become a public record for all the world to see. Your assets and who you’ve decided to leave your estate to will remain a private family matter.

2. Eliminates ancillary probate.

If a client owns real estate in a different state (Ex. A beach house in New Jersey), ancillary probate may be necessary in order for the personal representative to administer said real estate. Which means, that upon the death of the client, the personal representative of the client’s estate will have to open up an additional estate in New Jersey in order to properly handle the liquidation or title change of the beach house. However, if that beach house was part of a Living Trust, ancillary probate would not be necessary. The trustee would already have the legal authority to handle out of state assets.

3. Retention of control.

One distinct advantage of a Living Trust, is the grantor’s ability to maintain control over trust assets during his or her lifetime (the grantor is the person who created the trust and funded the trust with assets). With estate planning, we typically think of documents that dictate how our property will be managed when we are either unable to do so (i.e. Power of Attorney) or after we die (Will). However, if the grantor is also the trustee of the Living Trust, he or she will be able to retain control over the trust assets and have full authority to dispose of them during her lifetime. This means that if you want to change a provision in the trust document or even eliminate the trust all together, you, as the grantor, have every right to do so. If the trust were irrevocable, once that trust document is signed, the grantor could not change the terms.

4. Plans for incapacity.

A revocable living trust allows you to plan for mental disability. Assets held in the name of a revocable living trust at the time the grantor becomes mentally incapacitated can be managed by a successor trustee, someone the grantor names in the trust document to take over in the event he can no longer manage the trust himself. This is an advantage similar to that of a Power of Attorney. Estate planning is centered around planning for the unexpected, and any document that provides a plan in the event of incapacitation is very useful.

If you think that a Living Trust may be a beneficial addition to your estate plan, or if you are not sure if a Living Trust is the right estate planning tool for you, make sure you schedule an appointment with an estate planning attorney.

Robert E. Fravel, Esq. is a Bucks County attorney located at 123 N. Main Street, Suite 101B, in Dublin, Pennsylvania. He specializes in estate planning & administration, family law, and business law. To set up a consultation, call his office at (267) 227-9138 or visit his website at www.fravel-law.com

Before I give an update on my weight I want to say THANK YOU QUAKERTOWN AREA PEOPLE! We had our heater worked on and one of our boarding dogs got out when the workman left the gate open. Within minutes of posting about it on Facebook neighborhood sites you guys started giving us sightings and posting pictures of the dog on its adventure. Its great when we all come together for a cause.

It still took 2 nights before we caught her. And now back to ME. I would like you all to know that I am walking really well now. My back legs will squat the whole way down now when doing potty chores. I have pain meds and also have been doing water treadmill therapy and laser treatments at Mill Pond Vets. I still have a few more treatments left. I started this journey at 40 pounds last year and I am currently 36.6 pounds. Even the scale at Alpha Vets said 36.6. (They must have heard that weighing less on Mill Pond Vet had me asking mom to switch so I would weigh in less). Now that they adjusted their scale to make me happy, I don’t have to change vets. Hope you all have a great St Patty’s Day. Love Brandy

“Springtime is the land awakening. The March winds are the morning yawn.” - Lewis Grizzard

Collectibles for the Baker

Baking has been a popular pastime for years. Among mom’s china or grandma’s baking dishes, collectors find cooking collectibles to have good design elements and maintain high values.

Some of the most popular collectibles for bakers are not the utensils, rolling pins or specialty pans but rather mainstay objects that are necessary in every baker’s kitchen. These baking collectible objects hold their value, recall bygone days, and stir old memories of kitchen time with mom and grandma.

What are bakers collecting in the vintage and antiques market?

Cookbooks are a big part of any kitchen. Cherished home recipes handed down from generation to generation are well known keepsakes.

Cookbook collectors amass their collections by country or region like the highly regarded and coveted work by Jasper White’s The Summer Shack Cookbook from one of New England’s premier seafood experts, The William Greenberg Desserts Cookbook: Classic Desserts from an Iconic New York City Bakery, or Martie Duncan’s cookbook nod to her Alabama hometown of Birmingham choc-full of recipes called Magic City Cravings. The connection between cookbooks and memory is a strong one. Some cookbook lovers build collections based on specific meals, holiday fare, or occasions. Two American cookbooks highlight how Americans ate during the late 20th Century and early 21st Century. The all-American cooking style of Ina Garten evinced in The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook and Martha Stewart’s Entertaining both speak to the way Americans cooked and ate over the last 30 plus years. These cookbooks and other like them all promise to be must-haves in any cookbook collection and are destined to increase in value.

Some vintage cookbook collectors look for historic recipes like those found in the collectible cookbooks like White House Cookbook, Julia Child’s Mastering the Art of French Cooking, The Joy of Cooking, Betty Crocker’s Picture Cookbook, Grandma’s Little Black Book of Recipes from 1910, Amelia Simmons’ American Cookery from 1796, Eustace Murray’s The Oyster… from 1861, Salvador Dali’s Les Diners de Gala published in 1973, among many others. Values for these cookbooks on the vintage and antiques market range from under $100 for some facsimile copies to

several thousands of dollars for first edition volumes.

Another collectible that is a fine gift for a baker is vintage cookie jars. The cookie jar collecting craze started in circa 1950s and continued to gain strength in the late 1900s.

The World War II baby boom sparked a newly found need for cookies and cookie storage so cookie jars were placed front and center in manufacturing lines and on kitchen countertops. Post war American examples of cookie jars were made by potteries like BrushMcCoy, Blue Ridge and other firms. Nursery rhyme figures like Mother Goose, Humpty Dumpty, and Mary had a Little Lamb were featured on these cookie jars.

What made the cookie jar market spike? Andy Warhol’s cookie jar collection was sold at auction in the late 1980s and they brought values that prompted an unexpected craze. The values skyrocketed and vintage cookie jars sold for thousands and tens of thousands of dollars.

Recently, cookie jar values leveled off but the cute and colorful cookie jars remained popular.

They bring good money on the market today.

Like cookie jars, the display of one’s baked goods, specifically cakes, helped to make cake plates in all styles popular with collectors.

Cake plates are important collectibles for the kitchen. Cake plates may be found in materials like glass, ceramic, aluminum, crystal, etc.

Showing off one’s baked goods on a kitchen countertop on a pretty cake plate was commonplace. The cake plate, usually on a stemmed or pedestal base with a matching cover or dome, is an age-old tradition. It is being revived with the interest in cake baking and over the top cake decorating. Values for fine china cake plates soar to the several hundreds of dollars while other cake plates, in glass mainly, can be acquired for less than $250 each depending on manufacturer, design, condition, etc.

The kitchen is a great place to look if you want to start a collection that will remind you of family time. Since kitchens are the center of any home, the collectibles for the baker are certain to be of interest on the collectibles market..

Dr. Lori Verderame is the award-winning Ph.D. antiques appraiser on History channel’s #1 show, The Curse of Oak Island. Visit www.

DrLoriV.com and www.YouTube.com/DrLoriV or call (888) 431-1010.

March 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

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Knees and Other Ailments

I had both knees operated on this week. I had knee surgery once before for a torn something…cartilage or ligaments…I’m really bad with medical stuff… back about forty years ago.

I was working as a young retail assistant manager, and moved something in the freezer using my knee/leg, and heard a rip. Eventually I went to doctor, who assessed me as being rather stupid, and with a torn whatever.

In preparing for surgery I told my then district manager that the doctor advised two weeks off my feet. He said, “No. You will come in and work from the office with your foot up on the desk.” For some unknown reason, not only didn’t I tell him to “go pound sand”, as my dad would have said, I stayed at that same company for 38 years. I may be stupid, but I’m loyal…

As I age less gracefully than I would like, and see ads and shows with other men my age doing physical feats that I couldn’t do in my 30’s, I wondered how I match up with others in my age group when it comes to actually feeling or acting old(er).

I don’t know what to call myself at this stage of life…some people say the 60’s are the new middle age, but that’s talk from those that are afraid of getting older. 65 is 65. But, I’m not elderly…although I did fill out a form today that had me in the very last age group…yikes…

Anyone over 50, 55, 60, 62, or 65+ depending on store, government bureau, website or magazine, is now considered a senior, and somehow that overarching, allembracing, wall-to-wall grouping doesn’t feel right to me.

Maybe Generation NQD, or Not Quite Dead. Has a nice ring to it!

So, I looked up common ailments when one ages: Eye problems - Check, but I’ve had that since I got my first pair of glasses at six years old.

Arthritis - Yep, although it’s fairly recent, and limited mostly to my guitar picking. I play a guitar with a slimmer neck now, which helps, and do some finger stretches, mostly reaching for the remote…

High blood pressure - I developed this, along with borderline high cholesterol in the last two years. The cardiologist prescribed a massive amount of pills to take for each. I try to keep them away from the dog’s daily meds…I can barely stand up to pee, never mind lifting my leg.

Bone and joint issues - Yes! I creak and groan, with a bad back, elbow, bad knees, stiff

neck, and disgusting feet, or deformities as the foot doctor likes to call them…and who sets out to be a foot doctor smelling bad feet every day, all day? Not mine…my toes smell like honeysuckles, but really, who would want to do that? I don’t think it’s a foot fetish thing, or Rex Ryan would be a podiatrist.

Hearing - I can specifically link this back to a front row Allman Brothers seat at the Beacon Theater in New York, sitting, or probably standing, directly in front of one of their massive Marshall amp stacks. The only time I ever left a Brothers concert early, because I simply could not hear anything after intermission.

Sleep disorders - I’ve always been an early riser, and now even earlier with Shelli’s crazy schedule, but nothing out of the ordinary, or if there is, I’m too tired to remember it.

Cancer-Alzheimer’s-Diabetes-COPDStrokes - I merged all of these together, and while each one is very serious, potentially life threatening, and their severity is not meant to be diminished, I luckily have not had any of these conditions…knock on wood, or on my iPad… I do worry about them as I grow increasingly older. Cancer runs in my family, and I have some memory issues, and a mild asthma condition, all of which troubles me, but for now my current concern is learning how to use crutches and rehabilitate my knees so that I might someday go hiking again with my sweetheart, or take that biking trip we have long been dreaming about…

So, if one day you are driving through the beautiful roads of Upper Black Eddy (either one of them), and you see some ODB walking briskly up the hill, do not turn up your favorite Wu-Tang Clan song…(if in fact if you have a favorite Wu-Tang Clan song… I will still consider you a friend, although a friend with very bad taste in music)…simply roll down your window and give a nice big “Way to go Johnno!” shout out.

Eventually, out of sight of your rearview mirror, I will realize someone in a passing vehicle said something to me and will wave and respond with a very pleasant, and friendly “Huh?”, before venturing home to tell Shelli that a car shouted at me as I was walking but have no idea who they were or what they said…

On second thought, what the hell…crank up Method Man… I most likely won’t hear it, or remember it…

John Schaninger is a lifelong resident of Pennsylvania and has lived in Upper Black Eddy for 12 years. Reach him at m12string@aol.com

11 Panthers Capture Individual Liberty Division Championships The Quakertown Community High School wrestling team won its sixth consecutive Suburban One League Liberty Division championship in dominating fashion as 11 wrestlers captured individual crowns, eight by pin.

“The guys did a heck of a job,” Coach Kurt Handel said. “This is one of the toughest teams in Quakertown history, which is amazing.”

The coach praised QYC Wrestling, the youth organization, for recruiting youngsters into “a great program.” He also gave a shoutout to Strayer Middle School, which has

strengthened its schedule and has performed admirably, including a recent fifth-place finish in the SEPA tournament.

SOL Liberty Division champions are Freddie Retter, heavyweight (30-3), Brandon Pierce, 215 pounds (10-10), Kaden Rosener, 189 (25-14), Calvin Lachman, 172 (29-7), Zach Borzio, 145 (29-13), Gavin Carrol, 138 (26-10), Collin Gaj, 132 (34-5), Todd McGann, 126 (24-14), Mason Ziegler, 120 (34-4), Justin Adamson, 113 (17-12), Ike Williams, 106 (23-12).

Renovating Yourself vs.

Hiring a Professional During home renovations, it’s important to understand your limitations and when it’s best to call on the help of contractors.

Here are some projects you can do yourself: • Painting • Looking out for any water staining on walls • Cleaning gutters regularly to make sure they drain properly, and looking for signs of clogged gutters or downspouts • Checking for adequate ventilation in all rooms to keep air circulating, and looking for signs of mildew • Testing grounded outlets regularly Projects for professionals: • Masonry cleaning and repair • Structural repairs • Floor refinishing

• Any electrical or plumbing problems • Repair cracks in sidewalks and steps • Call PECO or PP&L to trim trees that are touching electrical wires.

• Roof Replacement • Kitchen or Bath Upgrade Whether you live in a Single Family Rancher or Two Story, or Victorian style row house, there are easy ways to preserve your home’s unique style through renovating while also ensuring your home is safe and comfortable.

You can start your renovation today with the help of a RenoFi Loan, which will let you borrow based on the value of your home after the renovation.

Call me if you’d like to discuss your home’s value!

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 or 215-872-9865.

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • March 2022

Anthony Garbarino, 72, of Quakertown

passed away on December 21, 2021.

Born in Philadelphia on May 14, 1949, he was the son of the late Domenick and Rose (Palesano).

He was the husband of Linda (Fantini) Garbarino with whom he was married to for 31 years.

He is survived by his son Anthony, his daughter Carolyn Butera (Paul), a stepson Stephen (Heather) his sister Annette Derito (Louis), his brother Domenick (Jo-Anna) his grandchildren Emma, Casey, Riley and his nieces Roseann, Rachel and nephew Louis.

Services are private.

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

Peter Christopher Thayer, age 52, of Quakertown PA, passed away on Saturday, January 15, 2022.

He was the husband of Dee (Dorothy) Clymer Thayer, his soul mate, with whom he shared 26 years together, including 23 years of marriage.

Born in Abington PA, he was a son of Franklyn Thayer of Eagan MN and the late Mary Barbara Thayer.

Peter was a student at Burnsville High School in Burnsville MN and a proud veteran of the US Navy. He earned his GED during his military service.

He was Director of Operations of several nursing homes early in his career, including the Sisters of St. Joseph in Flourtown PA. In more recent years, he owned and operated his own company, T.K. Atlantic Mechanical in Quakertown.

He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, camping with his in-laws, watching every movie ever made, traveling, and spending time with his family. He also treasured all his children’s events: Whether it be coaching T-ball or baseball for Noah, football and basketball for Frank-Morgan and Noah, Frank-Morgan’s military events, and every game, recital, or cheer competition for Nessa and Amber. He also enjoyed creative writing and had a love of beautiful cars and mystery road trips. His day wasn’t complete without spending time on the couch with his beloved dogs, Wishbone and DaisyMay. Peter “never met a stranger” and will forever

~Obituaries~

be known for his huge heart and willingness to help anyone in need. He was most at peace at the family cabin, at the beach, or on the water, surrounded by his family. His greatest dream was to retire in St. Croix with his wife.

In addition to his wife and father, he is survived by two sons, Frank-Morgan and Noah, both of Quakertown; two daughters, Nessa of Quakertown and Amber Vogel and her husband Matt of Indiana; two brothers, Jonathan and Jamey and their spouses; three grandchildren, Connor, Marie, and Carter; father-in-law, Charles Clymer; uncles Charles, Kenneth, and David; his Aunt Christine; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his mother, Peter is predeceased by his mother-in-law, Jean, and aunts Melissa and Dana.

Arrangements are in the care of Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service (nauglefcs.com).

Contributions in Peter’s memory may be made to JDRF at www.jdrf.org

William D. Fletcher, 62, of Pennsburg, passed away Sunday January 23, 2022, at his residence.

Born in 1959, he was the son of the late Donald and Catherine (Orsagh) Fletcher.

William honorably served his country in the United States Marines. After his service, he worked a variety of jobs and eventually retired in 2020 from the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

Billy loved anything to do with food including cooking and eating! He loved watching and talking sports, but he especially enjoyed watching the Eagles. One of his favorite hobbies was golf. Billy had a big heart and a great sense of humor, he was always laughing and continued to make us laugh till the end.

William is survived by brothers Donald Fletcher, Kenneth Fletcher, and David Fletcher along with sisters Maria Fletcher and Catherine Fletcher Fox. Billy was also survived by many nieces and nephews, whom he was a proud uncle and loved very much.

William is also survived by step daughters Michelle Ziegler and Karen Ziegler. He was pre-deceased in death by brother Timothy and step son Edward “Ziggy” Ziegler.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral and Cremation Service. (nauglefcs.com)

Morris P. Lewis, Jr., 68, of Bethlehem, passed away Monday, January 24,2022.

Born in Sellersville in 1953, he was the son of the late Morris and Margaret (Robbins) Lewis.

In his spare time, Morris loved spending time outdoors, and particularly enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was also very skilled in various woodworking projects.

Morris is survived by children, Jacques Lewis, Morris Lewis IV, and Morrisa Ott. Several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 135 W. Pumping Station Rd. Quakertown, PA (nauglefcs.com)

Betty Rose Sweet Eberhard passed away January 24, 2022 with her son Casey at her side.

Betty was born in Salida, Colorado on Oct. 6, 1934 to Wilma Meincke Sweet and Ralph Mike Sweet.

She is survived by her son, Mitchell (wife Sally) of California, her daughter Paige of Gunnison, son Casey of Denver, four grandchildren Rian, Gabriel, Myles, Matthew, and several nieces and nephews.

Betty attended grade school in Salida and Laramie, Wyoming and junior high and high school in Gunnison when her father was transferred for his job with the U.S. Forest Service.

She graduated from Western State College in 1956 with a degree in secretarial science and worked at the Forest Service office in Gunnison, where she met and married Thomas Eberhard. They were transferred to La Jara, Colorado and resided at the River Springs Ranger Station, where Tom was the district ranger part of the year and then moved into the ranger station at La Jara. Tom was transferred to the Gunnison National Forest in 1978 where the family resided and raised their family until Tom’s death on Jan. 16, 2002.

Betty and her sister started a secretarial business which she continued to run for several years.

She loved to play bridge, fish with Tom and paint, producing many paintings. She and Tom traveled each year to Pennsylvania where Tom’s family resided, to Florida and the Texas coast with trips to the mountains camping and fishing.

She was an active member of Daughters of the American Revolution, the Episcopal Church and several bridge clubs. She enjoyed gardening with her husband Tom, the love of her life.

Betty was extremely proud of her children and the grandchildren loved all her visits.

Her children bragged that her kraut buns and cinnamon rolls were her specialty.

Private Graveside Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Local arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown.

Carol Ann Roberts, age 73, of Quakertown, PA and formerly of Harleysville, Hatfield, Bensalem, PA, and Warren, NJ, passed away on Tuesday, January 25th at the Quakertown Center Nursing Home. Born in Warren, NJ she was a daughter of the late William Suckoe and the late Edith Lidgate Suckoe.

Carol was a unique and fun-loving woman, despite facing hardships. She was a dedicated and hard worker, holding a variety of jobs throughout her life, most notably at Service Champ in Chalfont, PA. She found excitement easily and never met a stranger, befriending everyone around her. She had a love of music and socializing and having “good eats.”

Her greatest achievement was raising four daughters whom she bragged about often. She was a woman of Christian faith.

Survivors include four daughters, Heather and Kevin Kerns (Perkasie, PA), Holly Roberts (Bensalem, PA), Amy Roberts (Norristown, PA), and Jennifer McGlinchey (Doylestown, PA); one brother, William Suckoe (Warren, NJ); and five grandchildren, Darren, Bria, Sara, Scott, and Leo. She was predeceased by one sister, Louise Calvert.

A Life Celebration gathering will be announced in the Spring. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Mana on Main Street in Lansdale, PA at www.mannaonmain.com.

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

Willard M. Weierbach, 83 of Coopersburg, Springfield Township Bucks County died Thursday January 27, 2022, in the hospice unit of Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest.

He was the husband of Dolores (Frederick) Weierbach. They celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary last June.

He was a self-employed television repairman before his retirement, prior to that he was employed in the construction field. Willard known as a Jack of all Trades also helped

friends and family with general construction and maintenance.

He enjoyed woodworking especially designing and building his own Whirligig.

Willard also enjoyed going to public auctions, listening to country music and gospel hymns.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a brother Jerome of Reading and two nieces.

Arrangements 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 a charity of one’s choice.

Cindy Lynne Leach, 67, of Sellersville passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 27th, 2022. She was the beloved companion of David Hanshew.

Born in Sellersville, she was a daughter of the late Richard William Reed and Celia (Bender) Effrig. She worked in quality control for TEVA, Accupac and also Thomas & Betts. She was a member of the American Legion Post #255, Ladies Auxiliary, Sellersville, a lifetime member of the North Penn Gun Club, and a member of the Perkasie Owl’s Club.

Surviving with her companion, are children: Michael Leach of Sellersville, and a daughter: Kristy, wife of Alan Young of Quakertown; grandchildren: Sierra & Autumn Lauer; siblings: Paul Effrig Jr and his wife Diane of Richlandtown, Carol Cope-Cupchak of AZ, Allison Effrig-Russell of Hereford, and Susan Russell of Green Lane; and nieces, nephews & cousins. She was preceded by siblings: Cary Reed, Cathy Yeakel, and Debra Long.

A viewing was held on Tuesday, February 1st, followed by services at the Falk Funeral Homes & Crematory, Pennsburg, 163 Main St., Pennsburg. To offer online condolences, visit their “Book of Memories” at falkfuneralhomes.com.

Barbara Catherine Sparango, age 75, of Coopersburg, passed away on January 27, 2022 at her residence.

She was the loving wife of Anthony D. Sparango Sr. with whom she would of shared 33 years of marriage in May. Born in Abington, she was the daughter of the late Steve and Catherine (Cooper) Kovac.

Barbara worked as an administrative assistant for Trane Corporation for 15 years.

Barbara was a bike enthusiast and loved riding on her Harley Davidson with her Husband, Tony. Her and her husband loved to travel together both inside and outside the United States. She loved to shop and always matched her outfits.

Surviving along with husband Tony are children, John Hughes, Jr., Kimberly (Mark) Hays, Anthony (Deborah) Sparango, Jr., and Pamela (Paul) Vollrath, grandchildren, Anthony III, Nicole Hays, Taylor Hays, John Tucker, David Tucker, and Ava Tucker and great-grandchildren Anthony IV, and Azzurra and sister Judy (Bill) Collings. She was predeceased by granddaughter Ryan Michelle Hays and brothers, Stephen and John Kovac.

Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Fox Chase Cancer Center, Main Campus, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-2497.

Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (nauglefcs.com) Linda M. Oswald, 70, of Quakertown died January 28, 2022 in St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus.

Born in Quakertown she was the daughter of the late Kermit J. & Martha J. (Shelly) Oswald.

She worked for Knoll, Inc. before retiring.

Prior to that she worked for the former J.G. Furniture and the former Willauer Machine Shop.

She bowled in the Gem League and enjoyed travelling after her retirement.

She was a member for over 50 years at Trinity Great Swamp U.C.C. in Spinnerstown.

Linda is survived by a brother Marvin K. Oswald, and a sister Hilda Oswald.

A Memorial Service was held on Saturday, February 5, 2022 at 2:00 P.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Trinity Great Swamp U.C.C. P.O. Box 494 Spinnerstown, PA 18968.

John “Michael” Cody, 72, of Quakertown, passed away in his home, surrounded by loved ones, on Saturday, January 29, 2022. He was the husband of Janice (Zupkow) Cody, with whom he shared 40 years of marriage.

Michael was born in Bayonne, NJ, to the late John and Margaret Doris (Campbell) Cody. In 1968 he was drafted into the Army and was

March 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

deployed to Vietnam. During his time there, he received several commendations including a Bronze Star. He was honorably discharged in 1970 after receiving a Purple Heart following an injury that sent him home. After returning, Michael attended several colleges including Point Park in Pittsburgh, which led to him meeting his wife, and Temple University, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism.

Michael retired from Bucks County Department of Corrections after 25 years where he worked as a Counselor and Corrections Officer. He loved to tell people that he was still using his degree because journalism is all about communicating with people and so was his job.

He was a lover of family, music, especially the Beatles, art, laughter, and Disney. He had a childlike wonder and sense of humor about him that never faded, even in his final days.

This will be his legacy because he passed it on to everyone he knew.

In addition to his wife, Michael is survived by his daughters Kalina (Cody) Kolakowski and Jessalyn Cody; son-in-law, David Kolakowski; grandson, Rowan Kolakowski; and siblings, Peter Cody, Jeffrey Cody, David Cody, and Lisa Cody.

A memorial will be held in the spring to honor his life and memories. Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with his final arrangements. (nauglefcs.com)

David Saunders, 83 of Quakertown died Saturday January 29, 2022, in LifeQuest Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

He was the husband of the late Elizabeth Marie (Hoover) Saunders.

He was born in Kimball, West Virginia.

He was a member of the UAW and after 35 years of service he retired as a machinist from the former Teleflex in North Wales.

David was a member of the Forest Lodge VFW in Sellersville, Quakertown American Legion, the former Quakertown Moose, and the Morwood Sportsman Club in Tylersport.

Standing in a stream or in a boat on a lake or ocean he had a passion for fishing. He also enjoyed building birdhouses, gardening, and detailing cars. David was also a Ham Radio enthusiast going by the CB handle “Silver Fox” and having the call letters KBGK4545.

He is survived by his children Mary Jo Reynolds of Perkasie, Kimberly Ann Saunders (Joe Quinn) of Quakertown and David K. Saunders of Hereford. Five grandchildren Adam David, Bryan Scott, Jason Lee, John Joseph, and Heavenlee Angel. Five great grandchildren Jacob David, Alex Bruce, Luke Joseph, McKenzie, and Maddox. A sister Clara in West Virginia.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www. crstrunk.com) Quakertown PA. Paul Henry Fleck, age 91, of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, passed away on Sunday January 30, 2022 at Quakertown Center Nursing home in Quakertown, PA. He was the husband of Alma Jane (Street) Fleck, with whom he shared 42 years of marriage together.

Born in Philadelphia, PA he was a son of the late John Fleck and the late Wilhelmina Hickman Kane Fleck Pike.

Paul earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing from Temple University. He went on to serve our country in the Navy during the Korean War. He was the owner and operator of Urethane Fabrications Inc. in Red Hill, PA for over 20 years.

He was a member of Morning Star Fellowship Church in Quakertown, PA. He enjoyed working, sailing, walking, bicycling and spending time with his beloved dog, Buster.

He is survived by two sons, Paul W. Fleck and his Ex-wife Patti Tesar of Sarasota, FL and John M. Fleck and his wife Florence of W. Caldwell NJ; one daughter, Virginia “Ginni” Fleck of Amsterdam Netherlands; three grandchildren, Robert, Jake and Abigail and two great-grandchildren, Kayden and Bella. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his twin brothers Jack and George; his sister Wilma; and his grandson Kurt Joseph Fleck.

A memorial service will be held 12 noon Saturday April 9th, 2022 at Morning Star Fellowship Church, 429 S. 9th St. Quakertown, PA 18951. Contributions in his memory may be made to the church.

Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. of Quakertown.

215-536-3343 (nauglefcs.com).

Joseph Angelo Basile, 60, of Paupack, PA formerly of Quakertown died January 30, 2022 in his home, surrounded by his wife and five sons.

He was the husband of Beth (Hodge) Basile.

They were married 32 years last September.

Born in Niagara Falls, NY he was the son of Anthony S. & Loretta (Schiesser) Basile.

~Obituaries~

He was Vice President of Hardware Solutions for AssetWorks LLC. Joe was a compassionate father, a dedicated husband, and his family’s daily embodiment of strength who worked relentlessly to provide for his family.

In his free time, Joe loved adventure, from cruising on his motorcycle with Beth, his brothers-in-law, and his friends, to touring the country in his RV. Most of all, Joe loved to be home whether it was lounging on the deck or drifting across Lake Wallenpaupack on his boat.

In addition to his wife and parents he is survived by his sons Joseph, Robert, Sean, Matthew, Nicholas, & Adam; two brothers Tony, Mark (Roberta) and sisters Theresa & Barbara Rooney (Glen). He is also survived by his beloved aunts and uncles Joseph & Marilyn Zeigler, Robert & Betty Schiesser, and Victor Basile, and many nieces, nephews, & cousins.

Services were held on Thursday, February 3, 2022 at 1:00 P.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the HEADstrong Foundation at www.headstrong.org/donate/.

Ruth B. Povenski, age 94, of Quakertown, passed away on January 30, 2022 at her residence.

She was the loving wife of the late Joseph Povenski with whom she shared 50 years of marriage.

Born in Quakertown, she was a daughter of the late Evelyn Amey.

She graduated from Quakertown High School in 1945.

Ruth enjoyed going to the cabin, walking, gardening, babysitting grand and great grand children, quilting, sewing and baking.

Surviving are her children, Greg (Joanne), Eric (Betty Niemy) and Joe (Kathy), seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her siblings.

Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). To view her online obituary please visit www.nauglefcs.com.

James L. Chobot, 67, of Richlandtown died January 30, 2022 in St. Luke’s University Hospital-Bethehem.

He was the fiancé of Lisa Howells.

Born in Sellersville, PA, he was the son of the late John S. & Betty Jean (Sloyer) Chobot.

He was a retired Dietary Aide for Phoebe Richland. Prior to that he worked for Raymour Flanagan in Quakertown.

He enjoyed being outside in the spring and summer, watching TV, and socializing with people. He also enjoyed time with his grandkids.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran.

In addition to his fiancé he is survived by a brother John (Donna), three sisters Pam Fosbenner (David), Penny Cartwright, & Brenda Derr, step-son Dalton, and two stepdaughters Jasmine & Madison. Three grandchildren Addriyanna, Levi, & Wyatt.

Predeceased by a son Joshua.

There will be no services at the present time. 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 Liver Foundation www.liverfoundation.org. or by mail to P.O. Box 299 West Orange, NJ 07052.

Evelyn Arlene Yeakel, age 99, of Quakertown, passed away on February 1, 2022 at the Quakertown Center.

She was the loving wife of the late Ralph P. Yeakel with whom she shared 55 years of marriage.

Born in Quakertown she was a daughter of the late Walter and Hattie (Lewis) Moyer.

She graduated Quakertown High School in 1940.

For the beginning of Evelyn’s working career she worked as a seamstress for the former Havey Clothing. She later worked as a day care assistant for Day Care Plus up until age 80.

Evelyn was extremely active in her church at Calvary Bible Fellowship in Coopersburg.

She was a lifetime member and was a Sunday school and vacation bible school teacher. She was also a member of West End Fire Company Woman’s Auxiliary. Evelyn was such a caring, and loving individual. She would help anyone out in need. You could even catch her riding her pink lady Yamaha bike around town with her son Dean.

Surviving are children, Diane Miller (Lee) and Dean Yeakel, grandchildren, Deana, Michele (Charles), David (Kelli), daughterin-law Janelle, great-grandchildren, Larissa Gail, Paige Evelyn, Brynn Diane, Rubi Kaye, Luci Catherine and Rose Evelyn. She was predeceased by daughter-in-law Catherine and grandsons, Darin and Derek.

Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Calvary Bible Fellowship Church at the above address.

Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). www.nauglefcs.com

Cynthia Rae Haage, 56, of Willow Grove suddenly went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on February 3, 2022 from Abington Hospital. She was the wife of Richard P. Haage.

Born in West Reading, she was the daughter of Joseph and Rochelle Boyle. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church of Lansdale.

She is survived by her son Michael J. at home and her daughter Rachel Rae also at home, sister Janet L. Boyle of Quakertown, brothers Michael P Boyle and wife Elizabeth, William H Boyle and wife Valerie of Kintnersville.

She is also survived by her aunts and uncles Roberta and James Mohr, Wadsworth Ohio, Thomas Renninger Dublin, PA, Terry Renninger Mountain Top, PA, and Mary E. Boyle of Coopersburg. Nieces and nephews April, Brittany, Tara, Sara, nephew Everett and an aunt, Jane Tyson and husband Danny of North Carolina and great nieces and nephew Bella, Aubree, Abel, Melanie, and Dakota.

She was, most recently, a project manager at Independence Blue Cross in Philadelphia. She was active the Pennsylvania Youth Chorale for several years while her daughter sang in the choir. Cindy was someone who got things done. She was an amazing wife and mother, always ready to do anything to help her family and friends. Services will be held at a future date to be determined.

Jacob D. Pearson, 88, of Richlandtown died February 3, 2022 in Phoebe Richland Health Care Center.

He was the husband of Nancy J. (Kernechel) Pearson. They were married 64 years on September 20, 2021.

Born in Haycock, PA he was the son of the late Edward & Emily (Richart) Pearson.

He retired from the U.S. Gauge. After retirement he worked part time for Bracalente Manufacturing.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his boys and watching his four boys and grandchildren in all their sporting events. He was a member of Paletown Rod & Gun Club and Great Swamp Fish & Game.

He was famous for his make you look silly knuckleball and pitched late into his 60’s with the North Penn and Church Softball Leagues. He also served two years with the Brattleborough Retreat in Vermont.

Jacob was a member of St. John’s U.C.C. in Richlandtown.

In addition to his wife he is survived by three sons Randy L. (Bev), Todd A. (Sue), and Mark E. (Kathy); three grandchildren Marissa Joy, Jacob, & Ashley.

He was predeceased by a son Edward J., a brother Joseph, and two sisters Louise Moyer & Elizabeth Koch.

Memorial Services were held on Saturday, February 12, 2022 at 4:00 P.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk. com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Phoebe Richland Residence Activity Fund 108 S. Main St. Richlandtown, PA 18955.

Sheryle Ann Davish, 63, of Quakertown

formerly of Philadelphia died February 4, 2022 in St. Luke’s University Hospital, Bethlehem, PA. She was the wife of George E. Davish, Jr. They were married 47 years last November.

Born in Shreveport, LA she was the daughter of the late Edward & Arlene Richards and the step-daughter of Carol Richards.

She was an avid reader and a member of the Quakertown Book Club. She enjoyed crocheting and was very active in her children’s and grandchildren’s school activities.

Sheryle was a member of St. Isidore’s Catholic Church in Quakertown.

In addition to her husband and step-mother she is survived by a son Christopher Davish and a daughter Rachel Davish, grandchildren Alexander, Connor, Ethan, Hailey, Arianna, Kaitie, and Lilanna.

Predeceased by a son George Davish, III, and a daughter Jennifer Davish.

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

Margaret Helen Miller, age 96, of Sellersville, Pennsylvania, passed away on February 4, 2022 at The Community at Rockhill in Sellersville, PA. She was the wife of the late Erwin Miller with whom she shared 62 years of marriage.

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Born in Richlandtown, PA she was a daughter of the late Harry F. Landis and the late Beulah Allem Landis.

She was a longtime member of Springfield Mennonite Church in Coopersburg.

For many years, Margaret was the Food Services manager for Quakertown School District overseeing the food services of 9 schools. When not working, she loved cooking for her church and friends. She enjoyed quilting, decorating cakes, traveling and was a giving person throughout her life.

Survivors include one daughter, Carrol Tyrrell of Telford, PA; one son, Glenn Miller of Ohio, three grandchildren, Joy Brauer (Mike) of Perkasie, PA, Faith Anderson (Michael) of Fairfield, CA and Joseph Tyrrell of Ontario, Canada and six great-grandchildren, Samuel, Julia, Benjamin, Alison, Jonathan and Caleb.

In addition to her husband she was predeceased by one son, Lowell Robert Miller in 2019 and three brothers.

Contributions in her memory may be made to Camp Men O Lan. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd (nauglefcs.com).

James Edward Bierer, 68, of Danboro died February 4, 2022 in Doylestown Hospital, Doylestown.

Born in Chillicothe, Ohio he was the son of the late Wallace E. & Anna C. (Maher) Bierer.

He retired from the Department of Conservation working in Washington Crossing and Upper Black Eddy areas.

He was a member of Keelersville Club, Owls Club of Perkasie, and the Quakertown American Legion Post#242.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and bowling.

He is survived by a sister Mary Ann Windmassinger (Mark, Sr.). Nephew Mark, Jr., retired Gunnery Sgt USMC (Melissa), great nieces and nephews Tegen, Evelyn, Piper, Mark III “Tripp”. One step-niece Annemarie Marino and her sons Casey & Chase A Memorial Service were held on Saturday, February 26, 2022 in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc.(www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Wounded Warrior Project P.O. Box 758516 Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

Jane Scholz, 92, of Lansdale passed away February 7, 2022 at her residence at the Independence Court of Quakertown. Born in 1929, she was the daughter of the late William and Elizabeth (Watson) Collins. She was the wife of the late Charles Scholz, with whom she shared 65 years of marriage before his passing in 2015.

Jane most recently worked as a sales associate for Rite-Aid pharmacy, Lansdale, PA. In her spare time, she was a member of a bowling league. She also loved playing bingo and enjoyed a life-long love of different kinds of puzzles.

Jane is survived by her daughters Kathy Buehrle (Paul) and Nancy Andrews (David); grandchildren Candis, David, Erica, Adia, and Matthew; great-grandchildren Connor, Mackaela, David Jr., Hayden, Lynne, Lael, Aiden, Asher, Cole, and Patrick. She was predeceased by her daughter Debbie and grandson Sean.

Services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 12, 2022 at Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 135 W. Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951. (nauglefcs.com) Inurnment will follow at Forest Hills Cemetery.

Joan (Glanzmann) McDonald, 66, of Quakertown, passed away Tuesday, February 8, 2022. Born in Philadelphia in 1955, she was the daughter of the late Edward Glanzmann and Patricia (Lynch) Glanzmann. She was the wife of Michael McDonald, with whom she shared 29 years of marriage.

In addition to her husband, Joan is survived by her siblings, Fr. Edward Glanzmann, Kathleen Ward (Michael) and Robert Glanzmann (Maureen), cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with the arrangements. (nauglefcs.com) Julio Arocho, 81, of Quakertown, PA, formerly of Fords, N.J. passed away peacefully in his sleep at home with his family on Tuesday, February 8, 2022.

Born in San Sebastian, Puerto Rico, he was the son of the late Julio and Paula (Torres) Arocho. He was the husband of the late Amarilis (Velez) Arocho, with whom he shared 52 years of marriage before her passing in 2015. Julio co-owned and operated Best Buy Auto Parts, in Elizabeth, NJ for over 25 years.

He had an incredible knowledge and passion for all cars, new, old, classics and antiques. In his spare time, he enjoyed watching the news, weather, baseball and boxing. Julio was the hardest working man you will ever know, a CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • March 2022

Julio Arocho CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 true workaholic. He was a man of few words but of good character.

Julio is survived by his children, Marta Arocho (Kenneth Pajak) of P.A., Julio J. Arocho (Elizabeth) of N.J. and Carlos Arocho (Andrea) of F.L.; his sister, Milagros Arocho Torres and brother Angel Luis Mendez of P.R. and his grandchildren, Briana, Riley, J.D., and Claudia Arocho.

He is predeceased by this sister Ines Arocho Torres. We will miss you very much until we are reunited again in the kingdom of Heaven.

In lieu of flowers or gifts baskets please donate in his memory to any of these organizations: The National Parkinson’s Foundation, The American Parkinson’s Disease Association or The Michael J. Fox foundation.

No services will be announced at this time. Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service (nauglefcs.com) has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Philip J. Afflerbach, 88, of Red Hill, formerly of Trumbauersville, died February 8, 2022 in LifeQuest Nursing Center, Quakertown.

He was the husband of the late Jean (Wieand) Afflerbach.

Born in Quakertown, PA he was the son of the late Norwood & Nora (Stauffer) Afflerbach.

He worked at Windy Springs Farm in Quakertown. He also worked for Tubular Products in Sellersville and was a Janitor at Quakertown Community High School.

Philip was a Cub Scout Leader and a Boy Scout Leader for over 20 years. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran and a member of the Quakertown American Legion Post #242. He was a member of First United Church of Christ in Quakertown.

Philip is survived by two sons Bruce P. (Debra) of Allentown, PA and Scott H. of Minotola, New Jersey; a sister Orpha Richter; and three grandchildren Stephanie, Kyle, & Ryan.

He was predeceased by a son John W., three brothers Paul, Joseph, Mark, and a sister Ruth Fritzgerald.

Private Graveside Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to First United Church of Christ 151 S. 4th St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

Drew C. Wagner, 69, of Pleasant Valley, PA formerly of West Deptford, NJ died February 9, 2022 in his home with his family by his side.

He was the beloved husband of Christina M. (Esposito) Wagner for 38 years.

Born in NY, he was the son of the late Donald H. & Joan S. (Gray) Wagner.

He worked for Opto-Systems, Inc. from January of 1980 until his retirement in December of 2017.

His retirement was filled with doing things he loved . Drew’s greatest joy was his family and 4 Bearded Collies. His dream come true was refurbishing and beautifying his property and circa 1780 stone farm house. He enjoyed going to blues festivals and field trips with his wife and pups. He also enjoyed photography and was a founding member of Monalog Collective, a photography group dedicated to supporting black and white photography and traditional film printing processes.

In addition to his wife he is survived by a son Justin Wagner and his wife Abigail and granddaughter Reagan, of Gibbsboro, NJ; a sister Janet W. Bruder of Wrightstown, NJ; two nieces Alexis Bruder of Levittown, PA & Carly Bruder of Wrightstown, NJ; a nephew Gregory Bruder of South Lake Tahoe, CA; and many loving cousins.

A Memorial Service was held on Thursday, February 17, 2022 at 6:00 P.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk. com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society 1818 Market St. Suite 2820, Philadelphia, PA 19103. The Bearded Collie Club of America, Attn: Don Means, 35859 Elkridge Run, Elizabeth, CO 80107 Dennis Gibson, 69, of Quakertown died February 11, 2022 in his home.

Born in Sellersville, PA he was the son of the late Lawrence and Dorothy (Rotenberger) Gibson.

He worked for Precision Filtration Products in Pennsburg before retiring.

Dennis was a U.S. Army Veteran serving during the Vietnam War. He is survived by a son Ryan Gibson and a daughter Sonja Shearer; two sisters Gloria Daugherty and Barbara Bartholomew; and a granddaughter Aliyah.

~Obituaries~

Services will be held at a later date.

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

Terry M. Swartley, 58, of Quakertown died February 13, 2022 in St. Luke’s Hospice House, Bethlehem.

Born in Quakertown he was the son of the late Claude & Virginia (Wimmer) Swartley.

He was a Motorcycle Mechanic. He enjoyed working on motorcycles, dirtbikes, and atv’s.

He raced flattrack in his younger years and on and off in his later years. He loved the outdoors hunting and fishing.

He is survived by a son Tery Swartley, Jr. and a daughter Ashley Swartley; a brother Steven Swartley; six sisters Claudette Baringer, Kathy Kollar, Sherry Doklan, Janet Swartley, Shelley Judd, and Tina Diehl; three grandchildren Kayla Swartley, Ashlynn Oliemuller, and Casey Oliemuller and twin grandchildren on the way.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

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

Christine (Tina) Louise Ciaudelli, 62, of Quakertown passed away peacefully Monday, February 14, 2022 at home surrounded by family. Born in Olney, Pennsylvania in 1960, she was the daughter of the late Donald and Eleanor (Vander Leeuw) Thompson. She was the loving wife of Michael J. Ciaudelli with whom she shared 25 years together.

Tina was a warrior who survived an onslaught of health issues throughout her life.

Having survived two heart transplants, breast cancer, double mastectomy, and numerous other medical challenges, Tina persevered and fought through it all. No time was squandered, as she and Michael rekindled their childhood crush, watched the girls grow up and get married, and showered their grand babies with unconditional love. Tina’s favorite place was on the beach, and Michael will forever refer to her as his beach baby. For anyone who knew Tina, she will always be remembered for her blatantly obvious eye rolling, direct and candid personality, and unconditional love for her friends and family. Tina will forever be missed.

In addition to her husband Michael, Tina is survived by her three daughters Megan Kreischer (husband Nathan), Dannielle Mayer (husband Ricky), and Taylor Troutman (husband Nicholas), sister Donna Fischer, brother Don Thompson (wife Joann), five grandchildren- Madison, Molly, and Charlie Mae Kreischer; Ford and Eleanor Mayer; and a grandson (baby Troutman) on the way.

She was predeceased by her brother George Thompson.

A Memorial service for Tina was held Friday, February 18 at 3:00 PM at Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 135 W. Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951. (nauglefcs.com) In lieu of flowers, donations in Tina’s memory to the Heart Transplant Fund at the Penn Transplant Institute would be appreciated.

Mark Altrogge, 58, of Quakertown died February 16, 2022 in St. Luke’s University Hospital-Bethlehem.

Born in Philadelphia he was the son of John & Carol Ann (DiCicco) Altrogge of Lansdale, PA. He graduated in 1986 from Villanova University with a degree in Civil Engineering and went on to work for Robert E. Blue in Bluebell, PA. Mark loved hunting and fishing. There was nothing that Mark enjoyed more than going hunting and fishing with his boys and spending time with his closest friends at Upper Woods Hunting Cabin.

In addition to his parents he is survived by two sons Justin and Logan both of Norristown, and two sisters Michele Kosh of Quakertown and Amy Lowry of Sellersville along with his brother in law Lawrence Lowry as well as nieces and nephews Larry, Nick, Stephen, Eric, Hope and Alexis.

He is preceded in death by grandparents Rose E. DiCicco, Frank J. DiCicco, Emma M. (Hyer) Altrogge and John H. Altrogge A Memorial Mass was held at St. Francis DeSales Connelly Chapel DeSales Drive Center Valley, PA 18034.

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 Juvenile Diabetes Foundation 200 Vesey St. 28th Floor, New York, New York 10281.

Timothy R. Stauffer, 85, of Quakertown, passed away Wednesday February 16, 2022 in his home.

He was the husband of the late Nancy A. (Erdman) Stauffer, with whom he was married for over 60 years.

Born in Friedensville, Upper Saucon Township, he was the son of the late Frank J. & Emily M. (Kauffman) Stauffer.

A graduate of Southern Lehigh High School, Class of 1956, Timothy was an Army veteran, serving in Texas during peacetime.

Timothy was a mechanic for the Saucon Valley Country Club for many years before retiring and was a lifelong member of Friedens Evangelical Lutheran Church, Center Valley.

He and his wife enjoyed attending car shows with friends in their 1957 Ford Fairlane.

They also enjoyed snowmobiling and boating for many years before the sale of their home at Lake Wallenpaupack. Timothy was also enjoyed hunting with father and brothers in his younger years.

He is survived by nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.

He was predeceased in death by his wife, and two brothers Ray “Sonny” Stauffer, Franklin “Buddy” Stauffer, and two sisters Jean Schaffer and Elaine Stauffer.

Services will be private and 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 any Animal Rescue or SPCA. Marianne Elizabeth Cherrybon, 90, of Quakertown died February 16, 2022 in The Birches at Harbor Square in Harleysville.

She was the wife of the late George Cherrybon who passed away in April of 2011.

Born in Port Clinton, PA she was the daughter of the late Harry & Mada (Baver) Kauffman.

She loved to travel locally and enjoyed her day trips. She also enjoyed Basketball and Baseball, especially the Reading Phils. She also enjoyed word searches and crossword puzzles.

Marianne was a WW II History Buff and was fascinated with the Presidents even enjoying travel to the homes of President Roosevelt and President Jefferson.

Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was a member since 2001 at St. Isidore’s Catholic Church in Quakertown.

Survived by her two sons Stephen A. and his wife Cynthia of Quakertown, and Richard D. and his wife Christina of Norristown; a brother Fred Kauffman and his wife Anna of Port Clinton, PA; two sisters Betty Henderson and the late David Henderson of Wernersville, PA and Linda Althouse and her husband Richard of Sinking Springs, PA; two grandchildren Michael and his wife Diana and Christy Ballard and her husband Dan of Easton, PA; four great grandchildren Savannah,& Landon Cherrybon and Bryce and Brooks Ballard.

Predeceased by brothers James Kauffman and his wife Irene, Allen Kauffman and his wife Diane, Harry Kauffman, Jr. and his wife Lillie and Lewis Kauffman.

A Mass was held on Monday, February 21, 2022 at 10:30 A.M. in St. Isidore’s Catholic Church 2545 W. Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951.

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

Raymond Niemy, 90, of Quakertown died February 18, 2022 in his home.

Born in Haycock, PA he was the youngest child of the late Theodore & Kathryn (Makar) Niemy.

He was a self-employed Stone Mason in the Bucks County Area before retiring. He was also a self-employed hairdresser for many years.

Raymond was a member of Silver Creek Athletic Association in Springtown.

He is survived by two daughters Yolanda Schroy & Donna Chookagian (Frank); six grandchildren Bradley, Christopher, Frank, Katlyn, Jeffrey, & Cristin; five great grandchildren Kendra, Jack, Tara, Lara, and Hunter.

He was predeceased by a daughter Carla, six brothers and one sister.

A Memorial Service was held on Wednesday, March 2, 2022 in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Silver Creek Athletic Association P.O. Box 165 Springtown, PA 18081.

Orville A. Henseler, 54, of Springtown, PA died February 20, 2022 in Beebe Hospital, Lewes, Delaware.

He was the husband of Cynthia “Cindy” K. (Bonetsky) Henseler. They celebrated their 16th anniversary on January 22, 2022.

Born in Syracuse, New York, he was the son of Orville W. Henseler and the late Mildred R. (Sweeney) Henseler.

He was employed in the construction industry, beginning as a concrete finisher, and eventually established his own concrete and excavating company.

He was a graduate of Pennridge High School.

He was an avid outdoorsman and loved deep sea fishing on his boat “Reelentless”. He entered several fishing tournaments including The White Marlin Tournament, and the 2011 Cabo Jackpot Tuna Tourney. He won first place in Cabo, by catching a 213 pound yellow fin tuna. He also enjoyed deer hunting, going to casinos and playing Texas Hold’em.

In addition to his wife and father he is survived by step-sons Edward “Eddie” Moninghoff and his wife Heather, Daniel “Dan” Moninghoff and his fiancé Kelly; three sisters, Colleen Henseler, Corina Martin and her husband John, Carla Weidner and her husband Scott; four step granddaughters and two step grandsons. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews as well as great nieces and nephews.

In addition to his mother, he was predeceased by one great niece.

Memorial services were held on Sunday, February 27, 2022 at 2:00 P.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to The Lupus Foundation of America 101 Greenwood Ave. #200 Jenkintown, PA 19046 www.lupus.org/tristate/make-a-contribution or to The American Kidney Fund www. kidneyfund.org/getinvovled . Donations to your local blood bank would also be greatly appreciated.

Tina S. Somes, 73, of Quakertown died February 22, 2022 in Quakertown Center, Quakertown.

She was the wife of the late George C. Somes, III. Born in Collegeville, Pa she was the daughter of the late Alfred & Bernede (Baker) Huber.

She was a copy inspector for 15 years for Reed Technology of Horsham.

She enjoyed roller skating and was a member of the URSSE Roller Skating Club.

Tina enjoyed BINGO, Cruises, fishing, going to the Casinos and spending time with family and grandchildren.

She is survived by a daughter Nina S. Somes and a son Ian T. Somes; two brothers Gary Huber & Kevin Huber. Eight grandchildren.

Services will be held announced at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown.

Barry Gordon Stahler, 70, of Richlandtown died February 24, 2022 in his home surrounded by his family.

He was the husband of Sylvia (Van Luvanee) Stahler. They were married 48 years on April 7, 2021 after being introduced on a blind date.

Born in Quakertown he was the son of the late Clair & Dorothy (Shelly) Stahler. He was raised on a family farm in Richlandtown where several generations lived before him.

He built his own home with his wife on the same property in 1975. He enjoyed housing many animals including dogs, rabbits, turkeys, ducks, chickens, an owl and a goat.

He was an Production Scheduler for Avery Dennison in Quakertown, he then continued his employment working for Richland Borough, Levy School Bus Company, Doylestown Hospital, Thompson Toyota, and Giant Supermarket. He made many friends everywhere he worked.

He was a member of the Richlandtown Volunteer Fire Company from 1969-2020 serving as Chief for 12 years and President for 2 years. He was devoted to the safety of his community as well as his fellow fire fighters.

Barry also enjoyed Hunting & Fishing and was a member of the NRA. He had a trailer in Bradford County where he would go with his best friends Clyde, Chuck, and Frank along with his wife to hunt for deer. Barry was an avid Disney fan and loved to travel to warm places. He was a member of the Disney Vacation Club which he utilized every year to take his family to Disney World or to tropical destinations like Cancun and the Caribbean.

He also liked to travel to visit with family.

In addition to his wife he is survived by a daughter Breanna Stahler and her fiancé Michael McSurdy; a brother Dennis Stahler and his wife Ginny, and a brother in law Bill Van Luvanee and his wife Elaine. He worked hard to provide for his family and did whatever it took to help them succeed. He always put family first and his greatest concern was to

March 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

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~Obituaries~

ensure that any need of his wife and daughter was addressed.

He fought a long and difficult battle with Multiple Myeloma but always remained positive and motivated. He never gave up. A Memorial Service was held on Wednesday, March 2, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Richlandtown Volunteer Fire Company P.O. Box 640 Richlandtown, PA 18955 or to Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation 383 Main Ave. #5 Norwalk, CT 06851 or to the families GoFundMe page to help cover medical expenses which can be found by going to https://gofund.me/795610d2.

Alma Slotter, 104, a resident of Richlandtown died February 27, 2022 in Phoebe Richland Health Care Center.

She was the wife of the late Reuben Leroy Slotter.

Born at home in Lower Saucon Township, she was the daughter of the late Jacob V. and Matilda A. (Fabian) Mease.

She was a seamstress at various factories in Richlandtown, Quakertown and Coopersburg for 40 years.

She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Richlandtown. Alma was a member of the Upper Bucks Activity Center, and she and her sister Marian played Bingo together and took frequent bus trips to the Atlantic City Casinos and to Wildwood. Alma loved baseball and watching her Phillies. She also loved cooking, canning, and baking cookies, handing out most of the goodies to friends and relatives.

Alma is survived by her many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, all of her brothers and sisters predeceased her Ernest, Edwin, Nora, Eva, Warren, Cora, George, Harold, Horace, Marian, Grace, and Norman.

A Service will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2022 at 11:00 A.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. Call 10:00-11:00 A.M. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church P.O. Box 459 Richlandtown, PA 18955 or to Phoebe Richland Health Care Center 108 S. Main St. Richlandtown, PA 18955.

Daniel G. Gambet, OSFS, President Emeritus of DeSales University, passed away February 28, 2022.

Originally from Toledo, Ohio, Fr. Gambet was born June 9, 1929, to the late Irving and Katherine Gambet né Glanville. He attended Blessed Sacrament grade school and Central Catholic High School in Toledo, graduating in 1947.

After graduation, Fr. Gambet entered the Oblates and made his first profession of vows on September 8, 1948. He was ordained in 1957 at St. Anthony of Padua Church on June 8, 1957. He earned his bachelor of arts degree from Niagara University, a master of arts degree from The Catholic University of America, and a doctorate in classical studies from the University of Pennsylvania.

From 1957 to 1958, Fr. Gambet taught Latin, French, and religion at Father Judge High School in Philadelphia and from 1958 until 1963, Latin and French at Salesianum High School in Wilmington, Del., where he also served as prefect of discipline.

In 1965, Fr. Gambet began his career at DeSales University, serving as academic dean and a teacher of history and Latin.

From 1972 until 1978, he was provincial of the Wilmington/Philadelphia Province of the

Oblates of St. Francis de Sales.

In 1978, Fr. Gambet became the second president of DeSales University, serving until his retirement in 1999. Under his leadership, the University underwent tremendous growth in academic reputation and in size. The student body grew from 850 to 2,300; graduate education was introduced as well as a broad spectrum of undergraduate majors.

In addition, physical facilities were greatly expanded; funds under management reached the $25 million benchmark; more than $30 million had been raised for capital projects, endowments, and scholarships; and the budget was balanced in each of the 20 years of Fr. Gambet’s tenure.

In retirement, Fr. Gambet maintained an office at the University as president emeritus and assisted the school with fundraising and community relations. He was active in a number of local and regional organizations, including serving as a trustee of the Harry C. Trexler Trust and a board member of Channel 39, Lehigh Valley PBS. He was also a board member of the Executive Service Corps of the Lehigh Valley, a trustee of the Keystone Nazareth Charitable Foundation, and an executive board member of the Minsi Trails Council, BSA. During his years as president of the University, Fr. Gambet served on the boards of the Pennsylvania Association of Colleges and Universities, CICU, the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania, and Lehigh Valley Hospital. He was also a director of the Pennsylvania Power and Light Company.

An in-demand public speaker in the Lehigh Valley and beyond, Fr. Gambet spoke at nearly every local community group, diocesan function, and parish event, always starting with one of the thousands of jokes and stories that he collected.

Among his many honors are: Distinguished Citizen Award, Minsi Trails Council of the Boy Scouts; Distinguished Community Service Award from the Lehigh County Senior Citizens’ Center; Greater Northeastern Chapter of the National Society of Fund Raising Executives Outstanding Fund Raising Executive Award; Francis J. Michelini Award for Outstanding Service in Pennsylvania private higher education in 2000; Lifetime Achievement Award from the Eastern PA Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals; Raoul W. Wallenberg Award from the Institute for Jewish-Christian Understanding at Muhlenberg College.

Fr. Gambet also received honorary degrees from Lehigh and Moravian Universities, and Lafayette and Muhlenberg Colleges.

H. David Leamer, 73, of Midwest City, OK, formerly of Quakertown, went to his Lord at 7 AM December 28, 2021 in the Landmark Nursing Home in Midwest City OK. He died of congestive heart failure and related health matters. He did not have Covid.

He was married to Janice F (Carrol) Leamer.

He was the son of the late W. Russell Leamer and Evelyn A. (Robinette) Leamer.

He attended Quakertown High School.

He made a career in the U.S. Coast Guard earning his G.E.D., and retired as a CW0-W3.

After his career in the Coast Guard, he was a league manager in a bowling alley in Oklahoma City. Leaving that work, he became a mechanic/groundsman for a well known golf course in OKC. He also was a member of a golf team.

He is survived by 4 children and 7 grandchildren, one brother I. Russell Leamer and sister-in-law Lois H. Leamer, both of Quakertown. Also nephews, nieces, and cousins.

David was predeceased by brother W. Robert Leamer and sister Deborah L. Crouthamel and brother-in-law John W. Crouthamel.

No further information is available.

“Indoors or out, no one relaxes in March, that month of wind and taxes, the wind will presently disappear, the taxes last us all the year.” - Charles Bowden

Bucks Opportunity Council Releases Community Needs Assessment

Affordable Housing, Health Care, and Jobs That Pay a Living Wage Top the List In its capacity as the designated Community Action Agency for Bucks County, the Bucks County Opportunity Council recently conducted a community needs assessment to determine the high priority needs of those living in poverty. Results of the assessment are shared with partners and used in strategic planning to expand and improve services county-wide.

Affordable housing/homelessness, rental assistance, healthcare, employment that pays a living wage, and the need for additional education and training to secure higher paying jobs were the critical needs identified. Expansion of senior services, access to mental health services, public transportation, food access, and affordable childcare also were high on the list.

A total of 585 responses were collected from key stakeholders, current clients and community members through the use of surveys, focus groups, and social media.

The data serve as a catalyst for BCOC’s planning, and to identify new partners needed to achieve progress. For example, after affordable housing was identified in the last audit, and with the pandemic threatening to further increase evictions, BCOC reallocated staff and developed new community partnerships to address housing needs on two levels: to find available units in the affordable range, and to provide rental assistance for families facing evictions.

BCOC’s mission is to lift families out of poverty. But before long-term economic stability can be achieved, clients must be

safely housed. Last year, 106 residents were moved out of homelessness; 2,658 residents avoided eviction; 9,737 households received direct financial services, helping 26,378 residents; and 486 residents received utility assistance to prevent shut-offs.

BCOC Housing Locators work to identify affordable housing--not an easy task in a county where the cost of living is high, there is a vacancy rate of only about 1%, and almost half of renters are spending more than 30% or more of their income on rent, creating a “housing cost burden.” Families with two parents working minimum wage jobs cannot afford to live in Bucks County without government support.

BCOC, landlords, and clients worked together to secure CARES funds so that landlords could be paid and clients could remain housed. “Eviction hurts everyone, and it is never a solution; landlords do not get paid and those who are evicted begin a downward spiral that creates stress for the families and further burdens the system,” Erin Lukoss, BCOC’s CEO/President explained.

BCOC and clients are benefitting from the generosity of landlords who believe in second chances, and who value BCOC’s expertise.

Incentives have been added to encourage additional landlords to participate and realtors who help identify housing can earn a finder’s fee. The Bucks County Department of Housing and Community Development as well as many organizations of the Housing Continuum of Care partner to help those in need of housing.

For more detailed data on BCOC’s Community Needs Assessment, visit www.bcoc.org.

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • March 2022

UBCTS Shines at District 11 SkillsUSA Championships On February 2, 2022, students from the Upper Bucks County Technical School competed at the Pennsylvania SkillsUSA District 11 Championships in Allentown, PA, and satellite locations throughout the Lehigh Valley hosted by the SkillsUSA Council.

UBCTS students competed in over 30 technical and leadership competitions against Bethlehem Area Vocational-Technical School, Career Institute of Technology, Lehigh Career & Technical Institute, Monroe Career & Technical Institute, and Colonial Academy.

Twenty-three students from UBCTS placed first, earning gold medals in their competitions.

In addition, UBCTS students won thirteen

silver and nine bronze medals. District Gold Medal winners will proceed to the SkillsUSA Pennsylvania State Leadership Conference in Hershey, PA, April 6th through 8th.

SkillsUSA Council is a nonprofit, 501(c)3, whose mission is to create a world-class workforce by developing partnerships among the business community and our local career and technical schools. Their activities carry out their mission of building a better workforce by connecting businesses with future employees, helping students become better employees, and promoting a positive image of our member companies and their industries.

Why Do We See Robins in Winter?

Many gardeners assume that Robins are a Harbinger of spring, when in fact they have probably been here year round. In spring and summer Robins can be seen foraging for worms and insects on lawns and in gardens. In wintertime these food sources are not readily available. So Robins travel to wooded areas seeking berries in bushes and trees. They will

also forage in landscapes containing berries such as Chokecherries, Hawthorn, Dogwood, Sumac, Juniper, viburnum, Holly and Poison Ivy. Although Robins are considered migrating birds they do not necessarily fly south but ”migrate” in a nomadic path following the food. Robins can withstand very cold temperatures by puffing up their feathers to insulate them. The first Robins to appear in the spring are chubby colorful males sporting their red breasts and dark backs. They will fight for territories and the best nesting sights.

You will know when the males have arrived by their constant singing indicating the mating season has begun. The females are smaller and have a more drab coloring. They will arrive several weeks later to conserve their energy stores for nesting. The females have a brood patch of featherless skin that is used to transfer heat to the eggs. Robins can have up to four broods a year.

For more fascinating information about Robins consult these two websites. allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Robin Seeing Robins in Winter? bit.ly/3pSPQEn De-icers in our Landscape Common road salt used to de-ice our roads and sidewalks can potentially damage our landscape plants and increase the salinity of our waterways via runoff from impervious surfaces. In a recent Fox 29 interview, Dr. John Jackson from Stroud Water Research Center estimated that 200 to 400 pounds of deicing salt per person per year is used on our roadways and landscape hardscapes!

We know that de-icing our roadways and sidewalks is important for our safety. But do you know what effect some of these products can have on our landscape plants and streams?

Plants near sidewalks and roadways can be severly damaged by the use of salt-based deicers. Common salt is made up of sodium and chloride, both of which are toxic to plants in high concentrations. When salt dissolves the sodium and chloride separate causing the sodium ions to replace other nutrients (potassium, calcium and magnesium) that plants need. Rock salt absorbs water normally available for plant

Uncovering an Old Friend Recently, I was running my dog on the grounds of Richland Friends Meeting, where I’m a member. The Meetinghouse (1862), school house (1860), carriage shed (circa 1747), and cemetery occupy about four acres in Quakertown borough. In addition to the graveyard and buildings there’s a patch of woods along Rte 309 and an acre or two of grassy grove along South Main Street. It’s designated a National Wildlife Federation “Habitat Property,” meaning there are food, shelter and water for animals. Living there are plenty of squirrels and a couple of groundhogs that provide energetic activity for the dog.

Originally on a ten acre plot which was part of William Penn’s Richland Manor, the cemetery and a Meetinghouse have been there since 1728. They were relocated from the original, 1718, site at Station Rd. and Old Bethlehem Pike because the ground there was too rocky for burials.

The first fifty years or so of graves are unmarked because Colonial Era Quakers felt tombstones were a demonstration of pride—a ‘Deadly Sin’--and a violation of the Quaker ‘tenets’ of Simplicity and Equality. Some graves may even be under the sidewalk or South Main Street. The oldest gravestone is dated 1773 [later Quakers became more liberal

and . . . prouder?]. The most recent interment was in 2021.

The part of the cemetery nearest Rte 309, beyond the carriage shed and Great Oak tree, is the African-American section. It’s not separate because of race but because the Friends donated ground to a ‘Black Baptist’ church that was located across the highway during the 20th century. The Baptists had no room for a cemetery on their small lot. The church stood about where Lee’s hoagie shop is (for older residents: where the Sweetheart Shop was). It was eventually razed to widen the highway.

Many of the African-American graves in Richland Cemetery are unmarked, too.

Instigators suggest that’s because they were not considered equals. However, the Society of Friends believes the Light Within—the spirit or mind that is God—exists in all humans to an equal degree. It is that Light a Quaker sees in another person’s eyes, not the color, faith or ethnicity of the mortal shell that houses it.

It’s more likely that the social and financial circumstances of African-Americans in that era precluded elaborate burials.

As an Underground Railroad terminus prior to the Civil War, Quakertown saw many African-Americans pass through. Some stayed. Buried in the ‘old section’ of the cemetery during the 19th century were: Henry Franklin and his mother; John H. Carlson; Nathan Hedges; and many members of the

Ringgold and Rhea family. Ruben Johnson was a member of a Colored Regiment during the Civil War and has a stone and veteran’s marker.

That afternoon, my dog sprinted after a squirrel that disappeared into the crown of the Great Oak. When I caught up to him, where he was barking up the right tree, I noticed that many of the markers in the African-American section were askew or misaligned. But then, most of the cemetery is like that. It was said to be at the geographic center of the Great Swamp, so the ground is usually wet. Frost heaves and weathering produce ankle turning undulations throughout.

I also noticed that several bronze plaques were loose on the ground. The mounting ‘stakes’ were steel and had rusted away. I uncovered several that were partly under the sod and straightened others. I saw several more-recent family names—Payne, Allen, Jones and Roberts. I particularly noted the gravestone of Emma C. Allen-Lowe. She died in 2019 and joined her children.

In 1965 near Trumbaursville, there was a tragic house fire in which six of Emma’s children died: David (b. 1955), Robin (b.

1957), Rodney (b. 1959), Penny (b. 1958), Jack (b. 1962), and Eric (b. 1963). Her son Alonzo (b. 1953) survived, but died in 1967.

I read the stones and empathized with Emma’s tragedy, but they are together again.

Roberts is a familiar name. By just looking at me, you’d never suspect that I was captain of the Quakertown High School track team. I was primarily a triple and long jumper. For several years, I competed against two AfricanAmerican students from Pennridge, Bob and Rich Roberts. Bob was older and both he and

roots causing them to dehydrate. The chloride ions are absorbed into the roots and transported to the leaves impairing chlorophyll production and photosynthesis. Overspray of salt from passing vehicles can accumulate on nearby plants leaves, buds and small twigs which can reduce the plant’s cold hardiness making them more susceptible to freeze damage. So what can we do? Since we can’t control what our municipality or state sprays on our roads, it is up to us to protect our nearby landscape plants. Covering roadside plants susceptible to salt damage with burlap or some other type of barrier can help. You can also protect plants in your landscape near sidewalks and other hardscape by using alternatives to salt products. If possible consider using nonsodium de-icing agents like calcium chloride or calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). CMA is a salt-free melting agent made from limestone and acetic acid. You can also try sand or kitty litter which will not melt ice but can provide traction. Be aware that overusing any type of de-icing product, sodium based or not can end up in storm drains and ponds. Sodium-based products as runoff into our streams can greatly affect fish and marine life. Use as little of any de-icing product you can to remain safe.

How do I know if salt products have damaged my plant? Is the whole plant affected, or just the side facing the sidewalk or roadway? In Evergreens the damage appears in late winter as needle browning, starting at the tips. Deciduous plants can be more difficult to diagnose since freeze damage and other diseases can mirror salt damage. Damage only on the side of the plant that faces a street or sidewalk is a good indication you may have salt damage. Often flower buds die or are slow to break dormancy on one side of the plant while the side not facing the street or sidewalk flowers normally.

De-Icers and Plant Health bit.ly/3px1gNI Salt Damage in Landscape Plants bit.ly/3KsqN2P. Our home Garden/Watershed hotline is still available! Emails are being monitored by our trained Master Gardeners/Watershed Stewards remotely Monday thru Friday, but you may experience a delay in response. Normal hours will resume in late March.

“Ask a Master Gardener/Master Watershed Steward” Penn State Extension Bucks County Email: BucksMG@psu.edu Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!

Rich were bigger and had longer legs than me.

I could only hope for a third or an occasional second place at our dual meets. Track is a sport in which competition is leisurely—as opposed to wrestling or football, where it can get real nasty. Bob and I became good friends as we lounged around the jumping pits waiting our turn and hung out together at district and league meets.

As I ‘neatened up’ the African-American section of the cemetery, I came upon a partly buried bronze plaque. It announced that Robert G. Roberts, who was born in 1950, had died in 1998 and now rested beneath my feet. As I straightened the rusty stake to which the plaque was attached and stuck it back in the cold dirt, waves of nostalgia and sadness swept over me.

I saw Bob’s smiling face from over 50 years ago, heard his friendly voice, regretted poking fun at him the time he bleached his hair and tried to straighten it until it turned to orange straw. The photograph in my yearbook, of track coaches now long gone and the handsome young boy, who became the crotchety old man I now am, came to mind. I wish I could start anew and do it all over again, only better and wiser this time.

As I glanced toward the spot where I expect my grave-marker will soon stand I felt the Light Within begin to glow. It matters not what color my skin (or hair) is, how far I can jump or in what place I finish. I only matters how, and who with, I did it. What awaits us all is worms and dust. It’s in the Light that I will commune with Bob again..

Jack Schick is a long time Quakertown area resident and regular contributor here at

UBFP. Reach him at sjckschc@aol.com

March 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

11

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

Artichoke Avocado Bacon BBQ Sauce Black Olives Chicken

Eggplant Extra Cheese Feta Garlic Green Pepper Meatball

Mushroom Onion Pepperoni Pesto Pineapple Ricotta

Salami Sausage Spinach Tomato Zucchini

12

• Upper Bucks Free Press • March 2022

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 Interim Pastor: Rev. Susan Lang 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 Fourth Street & Park Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4447 info@firstUCC.net www.firstUCC.net Facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertown Co-Pastors: Douglas & Joyce Donigian Traditional worship Sunday 9:15am, Contemporary Service 11:45am, Alternative worship Sunday 5:15pm, Community dinners every 3rd Thursday 5:30pm 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 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.

Richland Friends Meeting (Quaker) Main St at Mill Rd & Park Ave Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-7555 Friends@RichlandQuakers.org www.RichlandQuakers.org Clerk: Jack H. Schick Non-Denominational guided meditations Wed, 7pm Sunday worship 10:30am “Absolute freedom of thought and worship is our faith and practice.”

St. 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 459 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.

BY REV. JOHN BAUMAN

Let us pray for our families; that they may be led with love and grace, rather than stress and keeping a record of wrongdoing. Let them be families that seek Jesus together.

Let us pray for our workplaces; that we are consistent in character at work and at home, that we model the gospel of redemption in the way that we conduct ourselves, and that we see our commute as an opportunity to seek God through podcasts, music, reflection, and/ or prayer.

Let us pray for our community. We know our community, we know the problems it has, and the strengths that it has, and we know that our community has people within it who don’t have a home physically, socially, or spiritually. Let us pray for our community churches to continue to work together for the redemption of our community.

And finally, may we be a people of prayer who have our hand on the pulse of the world around us. May we be a people of prayer who pray for the people of Ukraine, and may we learn ways in which we could help those affected by the sin of violence in these areas.

And before we mount the tower of selfrighteousness, may we remember that when we model the character of evil in our bitterness, anger, and lust for power in the ways in which we conduct ourselves as family members, coworkers, and members of our community, we do so while abandoning the character of Christ.

We are but dust, and to dust we shall return.

May we be a people of prayer and action in the meantime.

John Bauman is the associate pastor at First United Church of Christ in Quakertown. You can reach him at jbauman​@firstucc.net.

There are few people in Quakertown who are not familiar with the 5th Street Luncheonette that was owned and operated by Ernest R. and Alice L. Roberts. A rather small extension to their home, the luncheonette was the early morning breakfast gathering for many retired men in town who would stop in every morning to chat with their friends. A few were even accompanied by their wives at times. At 7:00 a.m. it could get rather busy when the third shift of Spinlon workers next door would stop by after a hard night’s work to eat in or take out their breakfast of eggs, home fries, bacon, sausage, scrapple, or a stack of pancakes.

During the lunch hour, it was one of the hubs of activity in downtown Quakertown.

Most of their customers would call in orders for take-out because there was not enough room in the luncheonette to seat any more than twenty or so people, if that many.

What everyone remembers is that Ernie and Alice’s food was loaded with calories. The creamy, buttery mashed potatoes drenched in chestnut brown gravy with an ample side of corn, green beans, coleslaw, and perfectly seasoned roasted chicken, pork, or meatloaf.

I loved the days that she would make my favorite pot of green beans with potatoes and ham. And then, there was her chicken pot pie that was beyond compare. I would walk over from The Intelligencer several times a week for lunch; actually, more times than I should have patronized those calories.

Not only did Ernie and Alice serve delicious food, but they also provided entertainment for

We are but dust, and to dust we shall return.

The season of Lent starts with March 2 on Ash Wednesday. What is meant to be a season of repentance, is also meant to be a season of direction, and redirection.

On Ash Wednesday we recognize that we were created by God and we will one day return to God. The season of lent is asking the question what do we do with our lives in the meantime?

It is meant to be an instructive season. It is meant to teach us how to be humble, to teach us how to be seeking something higher than ourselves, to teach us things that we might need to give up in order to have more time dedicated to God. And it is in this season that we cannot neglect the duties of the faith that seem the most mundane. Because it is out of confession that we are restored because we are reminded of the redemption that has already taken place and the restoration that has already been set in motion through the cross, and the resurrection.

So, as we seek to be a voice in our community for peace and hope and love, the season of Lent reminds us that we cannot do so without seeking the love and grace of God ourselves.

If we do not commit to the need for a savior in our personal lives, and in the lives of our families, then we cannot fully point others to the same savior out of our personal quest for the same solution to the world’s problems.

This Lenten season, let us pray.

Let us pray for the renewal of our minds, for the redirection of our paths, and for our confession to bring about a new chapter in our spiritual lives.

St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown 1565 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Spinnerstown 18968 215-536-0734 stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org Pastor: The Rev. Axel Kaegler Worship Service: 9:30 a.m.

Service also will be live-streamed on Facebook (St. John’s Lutheran Church, Spinnerstown, PA) and video will be available on church website. Check website for updated COVID guidelines.

St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley 910 Allentown Road, West Rockhill Twp 215-257-9643 stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com www.stjohnsridgevalley.com 8:30am Traditional - 10:15am w/praise band.

Grape juice & gluten-free wafers available.

Adult Forum 9:40, Handicapped accessible.

All invited and welcome to Share the Joy! St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Applebachsville 837 Old Bethlehem Road, Quakertown 215-536-5789 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 stacey@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: 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

Where Every Meal was a Happy Meal their customers. They constantly squabbled with each other. Alice always had the last word because Ernie just gave up and ignored her after a while. After a stressful morning at work, they were my chuckle therapy when I went to pick up my lunch.

I remember when Alice got sick and then passed on in October 2005. Alice was born in Hindenburg, Germany in 1927 and died at 78 years old. At that time, a brother survived her, still living in Germany.

Ernie joined Alice in February 2009, when he died at his home at 74 years old. Ernie was born in East Rockhill Township in 1935 and was a veteran of the Viet Nam War as well as a member of the John Rivers VFW Memorial Post 11322. At the time of his death, a sister survived him. I had the opportunity to stop by Ernie’s home to visit with him for a short time before he died. He was in a happy mood and surprised to see me. During our conversation, I sensed that he missed his bride of 45 years.

Each time I drive down Fifth Street, I glance at the spot where 5th Street Luncheonette once stood, and I fondly recall that every meal was a happy meal.

See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come; the cooing of doves is heard in our land.

Song of Solomon 2:11-12 (NIV) Jacque Holliday is a long time freelance contributor to UBFP. She always welcomes your comments via email at jacque@ubfp.org

Have something to share with your community? Send us the details! info@ubfp.org • 215-529-8915 • 582 S. West End Blvd • Quakertown, PA 18951

March 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

13

Audi Q5 Crossover

I have yet to drive an Audi I didn’t like. And their Q5 Sportback quattro (AWD) S-Line crossover is no exception.

Although it’s a crossover, the Q5 Sportback takes on a coupe design with its raked roofline that gives the impression it’s going 55 mph standing still.

And it is sporty and potent. Punch the throttle at 55 mph and you get pushed back in the seat.

Its 2.0-liter, turbocharged inline 4-cylinder puts out 261-hp and 273 lb/ft of torque for EPA mileage estimates of an impressive 23 city, 28-highway mpg. Audi says it’s been clocked at 5.7 seconds for 0-60. Not bad for a 4,079-pound luxury SUV. And this hot fourbanger carries an equally impressive tow rating of 4,400 pounds.

If this isn’t enough grunt for you, Audi ups the ante with their SQ5 Sportback powered by a 3.0-liter V6 producing a whopping 349-hp and 369 lb/ft of torque.

But power is not Q5’s only attribute. Offered in three trim levels of Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige, we were privileged to test the latter that also contained the optional ($1,400) Sport Package with sports suspension, aluminum Rhombus inlays, Nappa leather and 21-inch Continental tires.

After a mere 19-inch step-in into the cockpit, your eyes will be grabbed by the 10.1-inch iPad type display parked atop the dash. It serves the gamut of audio, navigation, rearview camera with front and overhead cameras, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and more. And get this. Audi’s Integrated Toll Module is a toll transponder built into the rearview mirror.

It allows a driver to access compatible toll road services in the U.S. and parts of Canada without the need for an externally mounted transponder (EZ-Pass).

Below the display are the easy to operate and view HVAC controls with selections displayable on the large screen. And below it

are added function switches one of which is to switch off the engines auto start/stop feature plus the drive select switch for the five driving modes of off-road, comfort, auto, dynamic and individual.

On the other side of the dash is an alldigital instrument gauge cluster with a driver information display containing a host of alerts, operating functions and more.

A burly transmission shifter for the 7-speed automatic is similar to what you’d find in a single engine aircraft. For park gear engagement, there’s a “P” switch on the front of the handle. There’s also a console box top

wireless phone charger.

Q5s nicely supportive and heated front seats have extended under thigh support that’s a welcome feature to have on long trips. Rear seats are also comfy for two adults although headroom is a bit tight for tall folks due to the sloping roofline. But leg room is sufficient provided the fronts aren’t racked well rearward.

With a low 28.5-inch lift-over into the cargo area, it’s rated at 25.55 cu./ft. with the rear seats upright. The area measures 37.5 inches deep, 44.5 wide and 31 high. Flip the rear seats and space increases to 54.06 cubic feet for 68 inches of cargo loading depth. Beneath the cargo floor is the spare tire that’s inset into a foam bin with two smaller bins offered for small item storage.

Five Most Overlooked Tax Deductions

Shod with tall Continental 21-inch tires, Q5 rides smoothly, comfortably and quietly. Its suspension nicely soaks up road imperfections and unimproved railroad crossings. With a tight turning circle of 39.4 feet, Q5 parks ever so easily and it can be tossed in the turns with tenacious grip.

This luxury crossover is not without a host of safety features such as Audi Pre-Sense city forward collision warning and avoidance assist, lane departure warning, Audi side assist blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning, Audi Pre-Sense preventive occupant protection, tire pressure warning and more.

As a performance-oriented crossover, Q5 was base-priced at $47,800 nicely loaded.

But the price escalates after adding Daytona Gray paint ($595); Premium Package ($3,200) that contains a lengthy list of safety features; Navigation package ($1,500) with Audi connect PRIME and PLUS; Sport package ($1,400) photoinlays, by christopher betz Rhombus sport suspension, 21-inch five double spoke wheels; Bang & Olufsen audio system ($950); and delivery charge ($1,095) took the bottom line to $56,540.

As an added incentive, Q5 comes with the government’s top five-star overall vehicle score, plus five for driver/passenger frontal crash, five for front/rear seat side crash and four for rollover. All impressive scores as the Q5 is itself.

For those buyers who want a sportscar but needs the utility of a crossover and snowy weather traction, Q5 satisfies all those buying needs.

Nick Hromiak is an automotive enthusiast and freelance writer. We look forward to bringing you his new column each month.

He can be reached at nhromiak@verizon.net.

38th Annual Golf Classic

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registration & Sponsorship Opportunities Available at www.ubcc.org/golf.

Who among us wants to pay the IRS more taxes than we have to?

While few may raise their hands, Americans regularly overpay because they fail to take tax deductions for which they are eligible. Let’s take a quick look at the five most overlooked opportunities to manage your tax bill.

Reinvested Dividends: When your mutual fund pays you a dividend or capital gains distribution, that income is a taxable event (unless the fund is held in a tax-deferred account, like an IRA). If you’re like most fund owners, you reinvest these payments in additional shares of the fund. The tax trap lurks when you sell your mutual fund. If you fail to add the reinvested amounts back into the investment’s cost basis, it can result in double taxation of those dividends.

Mutual funds are sold only by prospectus.

Please consider the charges, risks, expenses and investment objectives carefully before investing. A prospectus containing this and other information about the investment company can be obtained from your financial professional. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.

Out-of-Pocket Charity: It’s not just cash donations that are deductible. If you donate goods or use your personal car for charitable work, these are potential tax deductions.

Just be sure to get a receipt for any amount over $250.

State Taxes: Did you owe state taxes when you filed your previous year’s tax returns? If you did, don’t forget to include this payment as a tax deduction on your current year’s tax return. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 placed a $10,000 cap on the state and local tax deduction.

Medicare Premiums: If you are selfemployed (and not covered by an employer plan or your spouse’s plan), you may be eligible to deduct premiums paid for Medicare Parts B and D, Medigap insurance and Medicare Advantage Plan. This deduction is available regardless of whether you itemize deductions or not.

Income in Respect of a Decedent: If you’ve inherited an IRA or pension, you may be able to deduct any estate tax paid by the IRA owner from the taxes due on the withdrawals you take from the inherited account.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2021 FMG Suite.

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

QNB Corp. Declares Q1 2022 Dividend The Board of Directors of QNB Corp.

(OTC Bulletin Board: QNBC), parent company of QNB Bank, at a regular meeting on March 1, 2022, declared a quarterly cash dividend of 36¢ per share. The cash dividend is payable on March 25, 2022, to shareholders of record March 11, 2022.

QNB Corp. offers commercial and retail banking services through the twelve banking offices of its subsidiary, QNB Bank. QNB Corp.’s stock is traded in the over-the-counter market under the symbol “QNBC.” For more information, visit QNB’s website at QNBbank.com.

Goodwin Named UBCTS Student of the Month

Blaise Goodwin, a Palisades High School senior in our Construction Technology program, is recognized as February’s Upper Bucks County Technical School Student of the Month.

Blaise is a First Honors student and has received the Outstanding Level I award in his program. He also is a Cooperative Education student and employed by Scott Goodwin Masonry. Blaise Placed First Place in Construction Technology at the SkillsUSA District Competition and will advance to the PA State Competition in April at Hershey.

After graduation, Blaise plans to attend Community College and work with his father as a Stone Mason and own his own business in the future.

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • March 2022

Employment Opportunities

Think Local. Work Local. Be Local.

Biagioli Construction - Laborer/ Helper Wanted For Remodeling Looking for a self motivated person.

Experience not necessary, willing to train the right individual.

Must have reliable transportation.

Jbiagioli5775@gmail.com Spor’s General Store - Hiring various positions, ages 15 & up. bspor@sporsgeneralstore.com or stop in the store at 22 W. Broad Street,Trumbauersville New Vitae Wellness & Recovery - Welcome to your New Life at New Vitae Wellness & Recovery!

PCA/MT, Cooks, Drivers, Maintenance Asst at our Quakertown locations.

Sign-on bonus up to $1,000!

Call 610-928-5246 or NewVitaeWellness.com/careers.

Classic Hair Designs - Salon and spa seeking part-time experienced massage therapist and Saturday receptionist. Flexible hours and pleasant working environment. Send resume to classichairdesigns1@ gmail.com Gutter Guys - Now Hiring Full Time Positions for Installers and Estimators. Call 215-996-9976 The Proper Brewing Co - Hiring Dishwasher, Host, Cooks, and Bartender.

Must be available weekends.

Contact: kris@ theproperbrewing.com or stop in at 117 W. Broad Street,Quakertown

Professional Tree Care & Landscaping - Full time ground worker’s position available.

Must have current license and reliable transportation to our location in Quakertown PA. Must have chainsaw experience, able to use a chipper and drive a full size pick up. Start right away.

Call 215-804-8208 Ample Electric - We are looking for an exoerienced electrician to perform residential and commercial projects. Interested, send your resume to ampleelectric@gmail.com Quakertown Parks & Rec - K.I.D.S. Camp Counselors, Counselors in Training, Community Pool Lifeguards.

CIT is volunteer position, others start at $11/hr. quakertownrec.com 267-372-7275, amiller@quakertown.org St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown PA - Church Secretary position at welcoming church in Quakertown area; 12 hours a week at $12 an hour. Additional hours possible during church’s busy seasons; days/times negotiable.

Duties include weekly preparation of church bulletins and reports, updating social media, producing monthly newsletter, answering phones, and other administrative tasks.

Skill with Microsoft Office, Google Drive and common social media platforms required.

Exemplary organizational, administrative and communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work as part of a team. Two professional references needed. Send inquiry and resume stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com.

John Rivers VFW Post Thanks Ornament Sponsors Mr. &Mrs. Paul Gerhart, Jr. Casey Swinney Mr. & Mrs. Paul Gerhart, Sr. Keith Ervin Don & Lorraine Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Brian Fenstermacher Colleen Wireman Mr. Mrs. John Daley Mr. & Mrs. Robert Ross Mr.& Mrs. John Frazier Kim Morrell Mr. Mrs. John Otte Mr.& Mrs. Scott McClree Mr. & Mrs. Jack Grove Mike Orlic Mr.& Mrs. John Ford Mr. & Mrs. Leo Bernabei Mr. & Mrs. Sean Trotter Mr. Kelly Carver Mr. John Goodman Mr. Tom Trenwith Mr. Conrad Reid Mr. & Mrs. James Newcomer Matt Donley Aaron Powell Mr. & Mrs. Dean Witt Mr. James Burns Children Mr. & Mrs. Justin Ruth Paul Carper William Kramer Gerald Kilhefner Elena Snyder Mr. & Mrs. Shawn Yatsko Mr. & Mrs. Bob Christian Scott Ambrose Mr. Pete Mink Mr. Forrest Fitzgerald Mr. Mrs. Jerry Sisian Nancy Laziure Mr.& Mrs. Joe Kelly West End Pub James Smith A&N Resturant Dave Dibelius Andre Thrush

Beer City JT Bankers Giant Food Stores Weiss Food Markets Nase Kraft Post 255 Donley’s Gun The Farm Bakery McDonalds Earl’s Pub Home Depot 4158 Alcamo’s Premier Signs & Graphics Upper Bucks Foot & Ankle Home Depot 4140 McLaughlin Physical Therapy Friends of Senator Bob Mensch Anvil Signs and Graphics The Rockhill Filling Station Eco Domani RHS Trucking Always Pretty QNB Bank Lehigh Defense Babushkas Free Press Graphics & Publishing Frank’s Pizza Lucky Strike Tattoo Dominick’s Two Rivers Brewing Becker’s Corner TGI Fridays Downtown Dunkin Donuts Rep. Craig Staats Modern Male Coopersburg Diner Always Beautiful Rita’s Ice LifeQuest Foundation The Farmer & the Chickpea Advantage Auto Sales & Credit Black’s Tree Service Ravens Nest Sapori Restaurant West End Pub

March 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

15

Quakertown Welcomes Two New Officers to Police Force

Family and friends packed Council Chambers at the February Quakertown Borough Council Meeting as Chief Scott McElree, Lt. Don Bender, and the Quakertown Borough Police Department welcomed two new members to their ranks. Judge Lisa Gaier administered the oath of office to Probationary Officers Randall Harrison and Jacquelyn Engler. photo by michele buono

Perspective I cut my hair off last week. It was super long and super dead from years of coloring it.

There wasn’t enough conditioner in the world to make it any less crunchy so I bit the bullet and took out the scissors. It’s cute. And short.

My ponytail is more like a pony stump. I hate it.

I feel like I was backed into a corner when I decided to lop off my lovely locks. I had Covid back in September and a few months later my husband made a comment about how much hair I was losing. What??? Nooo… What? I run to the bathroom and using a hand mirror I inspect my whole head for bald spots. I have always been blessed with great, thick gently wavy hair

and no matter what I did to it – perm, frosting cap, color (it was the 80’s) – it always stayed healthy, and more importantly it stayed IN. I was also gifted with the genetics of a long line of short, round women who were only mildly to moderately attractive, so I needed my hair to be good to make up for the rest.

So where was I? Covid, loud-mouthed husband, hair all over the sink. He was right! I can’t believe it. He is never right.

It was in our wedding vows that he cannot be right. I promise to love you, honor you and that I will never be right again. Ever.

But here I am standing in front of the mirror frantically examining my hairline and holding

“Indoors or out, no one relaxes in March, that month of wind and taxes, the wind will presently disappear, the taxes last us all the year.” - Bill Vaughn a tiny compact mirror in one hand while simultaneously performing circus worthy acrobatics to see the back of my head and having flashbacks to recent showers where I sat staunchly on the throne of denial about how much hair was going down the drain. I can’t even talk about the fact the hubs had to pull apart the pipes to unclog the swamp creature of hair 3 weeks ago. Unclogging drains filled with my hair was also in our wedding vows.

I know what to do. I call my hairdresser and mid phone call it hit me – Covid.

I realize that the Covid virus is causing my hair to fall out. It’s a real thing called viral shed. It really is the gift that keeps on giving.

First 10 solid days laying in bed, taking my temperature every 30 minutes to see if my fever has broken while the media hype plays over and over in my head and I spend countless hours analyzing every symptom, then a month

of brain fog, a sinus infection that has moved in like an unwanted in-law and now my hair is abandoning ship faster than rats on the Titanic.

So now here I sit with my pony stump and last weekend one of my very good customers comes in for lunch (I work in a restaurant) and there she is all smiles and happiness with a beautiful head of thick hair. It’s one inch long. She didn’t cut it. Her hair is brand new. She has spent the better part of the past year getting treatment for cancer and now she joyfully announces the treatment is over and she is just glowing when I compliment her wonderful silver crown of new growth.

There it is – PERSPECTIVE. I’m crying over shoulder length short hair, she’s celebrating one inch, not to mention being alive. I’m pretty sure it’s the other way around. Maybe short hair isn’t so bad after all.

• Upper Bucks Free Press • March 2022

IN QUAKERTOWN! St. Luke’s Orthopedic Care • 1534 Park Avenue, Suite 210 Accepting new patients! Call 484-526-1735.

Healthy bones and joints mean you can do more. At our Quakertown office and our new St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus, rely on orthopedic care from the team you TRUST. We’ll recommend the right approach to care, including joint-sparing treatments and therapies. And when surgery is the only choice, we offer options to help you heal faster.

Easy Access to Care: Extended hours and Saturday appointments are available through our Advanced Care Team so you can receive timely treatment for new injuries involving bones, joints, ligaments, or muscles.

The orthopedic care you trust. Now more than ever.

Scott Doroshow, DO Orthopedic Surgery Orthopedic Sports Medicine

James Lachman, MD Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgery

Wei-Shen Lin, MD Orthopedic Surgery

For more information, call 1-866-STLUKES or visit sluhn.org/findadoctor.

Kristofer Matullo, MD Hand and Wrist Surgery

William McCafferty, DO Primary Care Sports Medicine

Have something to share with your community? Send us the details! info@ubfp.org

Buckygrams: crocus, daffodil, snowdrops, pansy, anemone, hyacinth, tulip, iris, forsythia, peony, lilac, primrose Hidden Message: “Warm and sunny days are ahead.” Bucky Block: Generation Gap

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March 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

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St. Isidore Students Celebrate 100th Day of School’s 100th Year The one hundredth day of school represents progress for students (and teachers) during the school year and is an opportunity for more creative activities and celebration. St. Isidore School students’ 100th day was extra special this year as the school itself is in the midst of their

Centennial Celebration. It was the 100th day of the 100th year! Not very many of us can say they were a part of a historic event like this. Every grade participated and celebrated in their own way to honor this milestone.

Learning to Lose

Back in 1953 I had a teacher at Tohickon Valley Elementary School near Brick Tavern named William Diefenderfer.

I lived about a city block away from the “New” school and was considered a walker.

For those who know me, believe it or not, I was very shy and could be almost classified as an Introvert. Mr. Diefenderfer would encourage me to arrive a bit early to help open up the room in preparation for the day’s classes. Back then the original school had large windows with venetian blinds and I would adjust them each morning to “let the light in.” During this time, Mr. Diefenderfer would talk to me about his high school, college, and semi-pro football days. Little did I know but he must have seen a possibility to change me from that shy young lad into a person who became confident and positive in achieving goals.

Mr. Diefenderfer included physical fitness in his weekly lesson plan. If we had inclement weather we would go to the large room near the entrance that served as the cafeteria, auditorium. Gym, music class room, and area where those who were bus students waited for their bus to load. Other than that, we were outside for exercises, baseball, touch football, and down in the back parking lot playing basketball. My favorite sport was basketball and the sport I least liked was baseball. Back then, Mr. Diefenderfer would select two people to choose players. Remember going hand over hand on the bat until the bat could be held with just enough grip “to sling the bat” for first choice!” Yup, Rich Helm was one of the “Last” persons chosen every time we played.

This was discouraging, but I knew why I was chosen last—I was not good at baseball.

One morning Mr. Diefenderfer sat me down after I opened the blinds and told me he noticed a look of “Being upset” on me the day before when I was chosen last. He went into detail about his football playing throughout his life and how successful he was. He then mentioned about his first year of playing. He mentioned that the position he wanted to play (I don’t remember that position) was not given to him

as he “wasn’t good enough.” He played in a different position, but practiced hard for the position he desired.

Throughout his football playing from his “Second” year of playing in that position now awarded him, he did very good and he showed me newspaper clippings later on of his being a “Football Star” in that position.

Back then, there were winners and looser.

Winners were recognized with school awards and losers were encouraged, as Mr. Diefenderfer did, to do better. There were no programs as they have today, that awarded a trophy to everyone! The crowd did not boo losers. If there were award ceremonies after a major sporting event or meet, the winning couch would always mention the outstanding ability of the loosing team. Today things are different. I don’t understand that professional teams seem to always fire their coaches if they did not finish on top. Yes, it is a business, but when there are five teams one team will finish first and the others will finish their place down to fifth. Someone has to lose!

Mr. Diefenderfer would say, “Let this be the initiative to DO BETTER next year.”

So being chosen last back in 5th grade wasn’t so bad. Because of Mr. Diefenderfer, I never got discouraged about not being on top.

It only gave me the drive to “Do Better.”

I am proud that as a draftee in the Army that I was promoted to SP5 equivalent to Buck Sergeant in 11 months from the time I stepped forward and took my oath as a soldier down in Philadelphia before leaving Pennsylvania to South Carolina for boot camp. There are two things that this wonderful “Role Model” school teacher taught me in 5th grade. They are “There is no such thing as a loser” and “A quitter never wins and a winner never quits,” I wish that our current society would stop trying to wipe out the idea that there are winners and losers and that all are winners. Yes, all are winners if they realize the lesson that this country boy learned back in 1953, that there is not a goal that you can’t achieve if you work hard towards reaching that goal and have the talent to do it.

Dick Helm is a long time Quakertown area

resident

and

regular

contributor

here

UBFP. Reach him at rbh9@verizon.net.

at

Representatives from Quakertown Alive! presented Sunday Pappas, owner of Sunday’s Deli & Restaurant on East Broad Street, with a facade grant check this month. This is part of the $50,000 matching facade grant from the PA Department of Community and Economic Development Quakertown Alive! administers to enhance the downtown district. photo by michele buono

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• Upper Bucks Free Press • March 2022

Courtney Burns Earns Trailblazer Scholarship Award The Phyllis Lieberman Women’s Trailblazer Scholarship Award was established in December 2018 to honor the late Phyllis Lieberman, a long-time manager of Whitpain Township and founding Executive Committee Member of the Delaware Valley Insurance Trust. Phyllis was a pioneer who understood that achieving success often required taking risks, but she also demonstrated with her leadership abilities how to manage that risk.

The scholarship program is dedicated to Phyllis’s memory to promote the advancement of women in local government. Each year, two educational scholarships are awarded from a

pool of very well-qualified candidates. Both recipients are awarded $1,500 that can be used towards educational advancement programs or professional associations that promote women’s leadership in local government.

Only two recipients are considered each year and this year, the Borough of Quakertown Borough Council is pleased to recognize Courtney Burns, Quakertown Borough’s Parks Coordinator as one of the Phyllis Lieberman Women’s Trailblazer Scholarship Award recipients. Courtney continues to exude the level of professionalism to our community, and we are proud of her accomplishments.

(above) Quakertown Alive! volunteers Tom Jr. and Joanne Paulovitz (center) presented a check for $3598 to Quakertown Borough Council. This money was raised at the 2021 Sounds of Summer concert series at the Univest Performance Center. Also pictured (l-r): QA! Director Naomi Naylor, Councilman Doug Propst, Borough Manger Scott McElree.Rich Hill Road in West Rockhill Township where it meets Richland Township. (below) Quakertown Alive! presents a $500 donation to the Quakertown Police K9 Unit. The money was raised at the 2021 Autumn Alive! Fall Festival. Pictured: Quakertown Councilman and QA! Board member Mike Johnson, QA’s Director Naomi Naylor, QA! volunteer Joanne Paulovitz, QA! Events Chairperson Lynda Ulrich, Borough Manger Scott McElree.

Ashton Miller Recognized in 30 Under 30 by Nat’l Park & Rec Assn

photos by michele buono

Quakertown’s Recreation Coordinator Ashton Miller was congratulated for being recognized as one of the 2022 National Park & Recreation Association’s 30 Under 30.

Ashton has been working in Parks Department since 2017 instrumental in implementing programs, and initiatives in

Quakertown’s and has been new events, the Borough.

Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.

March 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •

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American Legion Post 242 Update Charles Wismer, our adjutant, just told me we were at a little over 88% of membership goal at his last check with the state Legion.

We still need about 50 more renewals or new members to meet or surpass last year’s outstanding results. So check that stack of bills on your desk, fill out the paperwork, and send your check in!

Our Canteen is busy with a lot of special food offerings. Check the marquee out front and enjoy a great meal in our smokeless environment.

I mentioned about the great burgers that we have after an honor guard mission to my wife recently.

One day we were in town and I suggested going to “The Post” for their great burgers.

She now goes to The Post since it is not so smoky. She was amazed at the burger size and the delicious taste. Besides that, it is challenging nowadays to find a facility to go for a burger at lunch where you can “Eat In” because of labor shortages. So next time your in town over lunch, try one of these delicious burgers or the lunch special. You will be surprised!

March finds us planning our Memorial Day Parade and Services. We urge you to plan to attend these important functions scheduled on May 30th. We who served remember those friends from home and buddies that we served with who gave their all. I now know in my sunset years just how much they gave up for our freedom. I urge you to do the same.

We will be able to have the service at the Memorial as usual. As the signs that are in the area indicate, the next area to be revamped in that area is the War Memorial site. We look forward to this improvement.

Again we thank in advance the school programs such as the bands and the supplying of students for inspirational readings and award presentations. We thank the borough of Quakertown for all they do in conjunction with the parade, program stage, and park personnel support. We thank the fire companies for the fire police and bringing their equipment for the parade. We thank the veteran’s who participate, the audio support, and most of all, we thank you for taking time out on Memorial Day to observe what this day is all about! ~ Dick Helm

Have something to share with your community? Send us the details! info@ubfp.org • 215-529-8915 • 582 S. West End Blvd • Quakertown, PA 18951