Upper Bucks Free Press • March 2023

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

ONGOING:

Spring Food Drive (March 3-April 2) at Quakertown Farmers Market Office, Exit #4, 201 Station Rd. Accepting canned & nonperishable items. FMI: 215-536-4115.

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

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

WINTER FOOD MARKET at Perkasie Fire Hall every 2nd & 4th Sat. 10am-12noon each month thru May 13. FMI: 215-257-5065 or events@perkasieborough.org

March 1

Robert James Investments monthly Coffee Club at 9am. Topics include market update, current events, & local happenings. First Wednesday of each month, 9am. Call Victoria at 215-583-5013 for info & to register.

March 2

Looking for some awesome people to join our 2023 Citizens Police Academy Class starting March 2. FMI: please email Steven Stoneback at sstoneback@quakertown.org

March 3

Trumbauersville Hoagie Sale (order by March 3, pickup March 13) FMI: Marilyn 215-536-2518 or Jen 215-989-0909.

March 4

Soup Day 10am-1pm at Dublin Fire Company, 194 N Main St. No eat-in! $9/quart. Order quarts on Soup Day from 8am-11am at 215-249-3740.

Seasonal Saturdays: Easter Crafts 10am2pm at Schwenkfelder Heritage Center, 105 Seminary St, Pennsburg. Make & Take crafts for all ages. Drop in, free of charge, no registration needed. Younger children may need a parent/guardian to assist them. FMI: 215-679-3103.

St. Isidore School Auction 6:30pm11pm at St. Isidore School Gym,603 W Broad St, Quakertown. $50/person (incl. beer/drinks) BYOB, Dinner by Giacomo’s Market. Live, Silent & Basket Auctions. Auction2023@StIsidoreSchool.com

Maple Sugar Day 11am-2pm. Bring family & friends and learn how maple sugar was collected and made during pioneer days. Peace Valley Nature Center, 170 N Chapman Rd, Doylestown. peacevalleynaturecenter.org

‘Oldies Dance’ with DJ Joel, 7pm-10pm at Green Lane Fire Company, 214 Main St, Route 63, Green Lane. $12 (cash bar, snacks, door prizes). FMI: 215-453-9841.

March 7

Perkasie Historical Soc. Speaker Series:

“Mapping the One-Room Schoolhouses of Bucks County” w/Chase Palmer. Dinner Meeting at 6:30pm at St. Stephen’s UCC, 110 N 6th St, Perkasie. Cost/$12. Reserve by Thurs. before meeting, call Pat 215-257-9624. Check website for updates: perkasiehistory.org

March 8

Woman’s Club of Indian Valley meets 1pm at Telford Community Building, 125 W Hamilton Ave, Telford. Program: Chime Choir from Generations. FMI: Woman’s Club of IV.com or 862-251-3076. Prospective members welcome.

Congressman Fitzpatrick will be at 10 S 3rd St in Quakertown at Craig Staats' office 2pm4pm to answer questions about veterans, IRS, Social Security and any other federal issues. No appointment needed.

March 11

Quakertown Lions Hoagie Sale! Must be pre-ordered by March 5 for pickup today at QNB’s 3rd St location in Quakertown. $6 each. Limited extra hoagies available. To order: Jim 215-536-1983.

Perkasie Winter Market connects our community with locally made, healthy food makers. Located at the Perkasie Fire Company Fire Hall 100 N. 5th St.10am-12pm.

Slot Car Spectacular 9am-1pm in Event Rm 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Vendors selling cars, accessories & more.

90’s Dance Party. Food, Beer, Raffle, 50/50. Doors open 6pm. Benner Hall, Richlandtown. Adv. tickets $30, $40 at the door if available. Info and tickets: prideofquakertown.org

Benefits youth through Pride of Quakertown Scholarships.Tax Form Pick-up Day 9am-3pm (Saturday) at Craig Staats’ office, 10 S 3rd St, Quakertown. Also available weekdays from 9am-4pm.

Christ’s Community Café 9am-11am at First United Church of Christ, 4th & Park Ave, Quakertown. Free “to-go” style lunches to share. Stop by while supplies last.

March 12 Daylight Saving time beginS

Souderton Cheerleading Booster Club’s Basket Bingo, 1pm-5pm at Souderton High School, 625 Lower Rd, Souderton. Bingo starts at 2pm. Tickets: $30/advance, $35/ at door. Also includes 2 raffle tickets. FMI: 267-474-0694. “Blessings” Choir Concert 6pm at Penn Valley Church, 320 N 3rd St, Telford. The “Genevans” (50-voice student choir) from Geneva College, PA. Geneva.edu/genevans or 215-723-5890.

March 13

Hoagie Sale for Upper Bucks Senior Center. Italian, turkey or ham 12-inch hoagies/$7 each. Must pay when ordering before Wed, March 15. Pick up is March 23 from 1pm-3pm. FMI/ ordering: Sara 215-536-3066 or upperbucksac. org or stop in at the Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Milford Square.

“How School Boards Impact Us All” presented by League of Women Voters of Bucks County on Zoom, (register at bit.ly/ lwybucks) Panel of experts discuss: what school boards do, how elected and how their actions affect community members.

March 14

‘Link at Lunch’ networking event, 12noon1pm at The Station, 139 N Main St, Dublin. Casual atmosphere, Goldie’s Grill is at The Station for dining. FMI: 215-348-3913.

March 17 St. Patrick’S Day

‘Chocolotta’ Event, 6:30pm at Quakertown YMCA, 401 Fairview Ave. Silent auction, Open bar, Catering by Karen Hunt and fun chocolate desserts. Supports low to medium income families. FMI: 215-536-9622.

March 18

3rd Saturday Indoor Craft Show 9am-4pm in Event Rm 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Local vendors with Handmade Items.

Pet Vaccine Clinic 10am-3pm at Last Chance Ranch, 9 Beck Rd, Quakertown. Low cost vaccines for dogs and cats, heartworm testing, micro-chipping. FMI: lastchanceranch.org or 215-538-2510.

‘Oldies Dance’ with DJ Gary Wiley, 7pm10pm at Green Lane Fire Company, 214 Main St, Route 63, Green Lane $12. Cash bar, snacks, door prizes. FMI: 215-453-9841.

Easter Bunny Breakfast 9 – 11 am at Upper Bucks Technical School, 3115 Ridge Rd, Perkasie. Adults: $10, Kids: $6, ages 0 – 2 eat free. Indoor egg hunt. Easter Bunny will be on hand. Bring your camera! Benefits UBCTS FFA students. Food prepared by Culinary Arts students.

March 19

“British Battle That Backfired” free program by Robert Beck, 2pm at Richland Historical Society, 130 Richlandtown Pike, Quakertown. (Free tours of One-Rm Schoolhouse & Museum will begin 12noon) FMI: 215-538-8671

March 20 FirSt Day oF SPring

March 21

Quakertown Christian School, Bridge K-12th Grade Open House, 5pm-7pm at 50 E Paletown Rd, Quakertown. Come see the QCS difference. FMI: 215-536-6970 or quakertownchristian.org

March 22

‘Wooden Treasures, the Story of Bucks County’s Covered Bridges’ at 7pm. Author Scott Bomboy will talk about their history and show slides of the bridges still standing in Bucks County. Donations appreciated. FMI: hilltownhistory.org

March 25 Grace Christian School’s 38th Annual Spring Auction 9am-2pm on campus of Penn Valley Church, 320 N Third St, Telford. Breakfast available. Live auction begins 10am. (gift certificates, crafts, quilts, gift baskets, more). 11am is “Doggy Days Demos” kids’ show. Lunch available, bake sale. Much more! FMI: gcs-online.org or 215-723-5896.

‘Bingo After Dark’ (opens 4:30pm, games 6pm) at Sellersville Fire Dept, 2 N Main St. Tickets: $40/advance, $45/at door if available. Must be 21 yrs old. BYOB, kitchen will be open. Tickets/FMI: sellersvillefd.com

Perkasie Patchwork Coffeehouse Benefit will feature “Seasons” (5 award-winning siblings create fusion of Celtic and roots music) 7pm doors open, 7:30pm concert. $12/adults, $10/seniors, $6/students 13+, Free/ages 0-12. FMI: PerkMenno.net/coffeehouse

Open House 10am-12noon at Strassburger Farmstead, 407 Keystone Dr & Bethlehem Pk, Sellersville. PA 71st Infantry Civil War re-enactors will present on the grounds. Ladies group will be sewing inside the Homestead. R/D April 1. Donations appreciated. FMI: hilltownhistory.org

Lasagna Dinner 4pm-8pm or sold out. Eatin or Take-out. Cost: by Donation benefits a Church Mission Trip. St. Andrew’s UCC, 615 E Walnut St, Perkasie.

WWWA Wrestling in Event Room 201 at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. Bell Time is 6:30pm.

Perkasie Winter Market connects our community with locally made, healthy food makers. Located at the Perkasie Fire Company Fire Hall 100 N. 5th St.10am-12pm.

‘National Alliance on Mental Illness” FREE presentation for teens and adults about understanding mental health. Riegelsville Public Library, Community Room, 615 Easton Rd. FMI: riegelsvillelibrary.info

March 26

Easter Bunny arrives 11am-5pm for Photos & visits at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. He will be in Room 201. FMI: quakertownmarket@gmail.com. Photos are

$5 each or 3/$13. He will be here weekends through April 8.

‘Vietnam Era Veteran’s Appreciation Day’ from 12noon-8pm. Quakertown American Legion Post 242 at 610 E Broad St, Quakertown. Complimentary food, refreshments and door prizes for Vietnam Vets. FMI: 215-538-0747.

March 31

Hoagie Sale (order by March 31, pickup April 17) Trumbauersville Fire Company, 142 N Main St. FMI: Marilyn 215-536-2518 or Jen 215-989-0909.

April 1

Annual Easter Egg Hunt 10am at Soccer Fields, 221 California Rd, Quakertown. Ages: 0-3 years, 4-6 years, 7-8 years, and also a Special Needs group. The Easter Bunny will visit, too.

Annual Easter Egg Hunt at 1pm (r/d April 2) at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. FMI: quakertownmarket@gmail.com

Easter Egg Hunt 11am at First Church of the Brethren, 455 Trumbauersville Rd, Quakertown. Asking families to bring a nonperishable food item for Heavens Bounty food pantry. FMI: 215-536-7510.

Easter Egg Hunt 10am-12noon at Pearl S Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. FREE event! (0-3 year olds at 10:20am) (4-6 year olds at 10:40am) (7 year olds at 11am). Easter Bunny arrives at 10am, Eggs are filled. Arrive early for parking. Registration required. Bad weather moves the Event indoors. FMI: pearlsbuck.org/Easter-Egg-Hunt

Cash Bingo! (open 11:30am, games 1pm) at Pennridge Community Center, 146 E Main St, Silverdale. Tickets are $30 each. Raffles! Hot food and snacks! Details: pennridgecommunitycenter.org FMI:215453-7027

10th Annual Tails & Ties Gala 5pm-10pm at Centennial Event Center at Homewood Suites, 3350 Center Valley Pkwy, Center Valley. Live music, dinner & drinks (must be 21 yrs old). Live auction, raffles, more. FMI: Jackie@lastchanceranch.org

Annual Spring Fling Dance & Fundraiser 6pm-10pm (Upper Bucks Sertoma) at Benner Hall, Richlandtown. Raffles, Pig roast, BYOB, Music, Fun, Prizes. Tickets/$30. Email: ubsertoma@gmail.com or call 610-653-0626.

April 4

Perkasie Historical Society Speaker Series: “Perkasie Fire Company #1, April 1st, 1926: Not an April Fool’s Joke” w/Jeff Schoeller. Dinner Meeting 6:30pm at St. Stephen’s UCC, 110 N 6th St, Perkasie. Cost/$12. Reserve by Thursday before the meeting. Call Pat 215-257-9624. Check website for updates: perkasiehistory.org

April 5-8

Easter Flower Sale 9am-9pm at Trumbauersville Fire Company or until sold out.

April 8

Easter Egg Hunt with Easter Bunny 1pm at Druckenmiller Playground, Maple Ave, Sellersville. Ages: 0-2 years old, 3-4 years old, 5-7 years old, 8-10 years old. No rain/ date…Easter Bunny will distribute eggs from Public Works Building if raining. NOTE: real eggs are used. Eating eggs not refrigerated after 2 hours may risk foodborne illness.

April 9 eaSter Day

Please join us for Easter Service 9am at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, One Luther Lane, Trumbauersville. 215-536-3193.

when

is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.”

Charles Dickens

How to Teach Impulse Control

Dogs are impulsive by nature; but when your dogs’ impulses are causing them to react in ways that are disruptive, embarrassing, and dangerous to other people or even themselves, you need to start training them NOW! Certain impulses can be particularly stronger for certain breeds. Terriers are more likely than Pugs to want to chase squirrels. But a Pug may have a harder time waiting patiently for his food. Examples of lack of impulse control: crashing through doorways, rushing in out of car doors, pulling on the leash, chasing cats, squirrels, pulling to greet people, jumping up to greet people, the inability to calm down, trying to steal food out of your hand. There's never a bad time to start working on impulse control.

The See-saw Game is one way to help teach your dog impulse control. The idea of the game is to make your dog wait while you lower the bowl to the floor while he holds the wait until you have given him the release cue (“free” or “break”). It sounds challenging, but all you need is patients and treats.

Cue your dog to sit. Tell your dog “wait” in a drawn out calm voice. Hold the bowl

Duty

I was recently privileged to attend the bat mitzvah of our great-niece, Claire Sonstein.

In the Jewish religion, a child becomes an adult at the age of thirteen. Not legally of course, but in the eyes of the Jewish community. As someone raised catholic, I had little knowledge of the service and was transfixed through this beautiful ceremony, beginning to end, from the rabbi’s opening statement, to Claire’s reading of the Torah, and her closing remarks delivered so eloquently.

But I was most struck by the responsibility that her father Joey conveyed when he spoke to her in front of family and friends that day. Yes, he congratulated her on the hard work she put in to be ready, but he then went on to convey the tremendous undertaking that she was being commissioned to accept.

Claire was advised that she now had a role in this world…our world…to make it a better place for all…to put others before herself… work for the common good and causes that go beyond personal benefit. He urged her to make the right decisions in life, not the easy ones.

To paraphrase the rabbi, as Joey did, This is work that you are not required to complete, but neither are you free to abstain from.

When I listened to this charge being given to young Claire, I realized that perhaps some of the best advice we can give a young person is about their duty and responsibilities not only as youths, but more importantly, as adults.

Perhaps even more critical…a teaching, or reminder…to each of us, that even in our busiest days, we still have a mandate to be stewards of our planet, caretakers of each other, and an obligation to counsel others to do the same.

Imagine, if when taking in the often horrific news of the day, in whatever format you use, we all followed one father’s advisement to his thirteen year old daughter…what those daily headlines could be…would be…as we all worked to make this world a better place.

I share this with you today, with the hope that you will consider a father’s words, and take them forward.

JoHn SCHaninger iS a lifelong reSident of PennSylvania and HaS lived in uPPer blaCK eddy for over 13 yearS reaCH Him at m12String@aol Com

with a couple of treats in it at the dog’s shoulder level (off to the side so you’re not lowering it directly under his nose), and before he can move, mark the pause with a click or a marker word like “yes”. Then take a treat out of the bowl and feed it to him. Start to lower the bowl to the floor in little increments each time. Set yourself up for success by not going too fast. Remember to have a high rate of reinforcement. As you are lowering the bowl, remember to immediately raise it when his butt comes off the floor and tries to move towards the bowl. Reset and repeat this until you can successfully lower the bowl all the way to the floor. The only punishment that is happening is the food goes away if he moves. Refrain from yelling or saying “no.” You can start by rewarding your dog when you're able to lower a quarter of the way, half of the way, three quarters of the way, then all the way to the floor. When the dog reliably doesn't go for the bowl, now you can add duration and eye contact. Bone-appetite!

Submitted by marion C. o’neil CPdt-Ka, Ctdi, owner and inStruCtor for molaSSeS CreeK dog training, llC, QuaKertown and trainer rainer for runaway farm Pet HoSPital, PennSburg SHe Can be reaCHed at molaSSeSCreeK@verizon net

Last Chance Ranch

Meet Luna and Moe

Meet Luna! Luna is a 3 year old, female, spaniel mix who enjoys playing ball and going for walks. After a recent field trip to Lake Nockamixon our volunteer was raving about how well she walked on leash. Luna is selective in her dog friends and seems to prefer the opposite gender.

Meet Moe! Moe is a 1 year old Heeler mix, who has a big personality in a small package. He's active and would love a family who enjoys outdoor adventures. Moe has lived with other dogs and loves to play with toys.

Consider adopting a furever friend today! Adoption fees range from a donation of your choice to $450 and include spay/neuter, 4dx tests, up to date vaccinations and preventatives. Applications are available at www.lastchanceranch.org and all adoptions are by appointment with an approved application. Occasional adoption events are held for walk-in adoptions. You can stay in the know by following us on Facebook at www.fb.com/LCRAnimalRescue or give us a call at (215) 538-2510.

Pests Causing Property Damage?

If you've noticed unusual signs of damage around your property, pests may be to blame.

Rodents, insects and other types of pests can wreak havoc on properties and cause unforeseen damage that ends up resulting in costly repairs. Here are four signs that are indicative of pests causing damage in your home:

Unstable Floors

The sudden feeling that the floors in your home are unstable could be a sign of a pest problem. This may be especially true if you have hardwood floors that are damaged because of termites. You might notice the boards curling on your floor as damage persists. Flaking and crumbling may also become noticeable as your floors continue to deteriorate from the damage. Crushed-looking wood at structurally significant points can be another obvious sign of a pest problem.

Tap Test Failure

Damage that's impossible to see can sometimes be detected by performing a tap test on wood surfaces around your home. Wood that's solid all the way through should produce a thudding sound when tapped, and any hollow sounds could mean that termites or other pests are wearing away at the wood. Hollow sounds also mean that significant portions of your wood have already been lost, and calling a termite treatment specialist and contractor to repair the damage can resolve the problem and protect your home's structure.

wElectrical Problems

If lights, appliances or other equipment around your home that's powered by electricity start to fail, you might have a pest problem on your hands. Lights that dim or completely go out along with appliances that don't have as much power or fail to turn on when plugged in could mean that pests are damaging the wires. Rodents are known to chew through wires, which can also create a fire hazard in your home.

Mud Tunnels

Tubes that appear to be made of mud may be visible in your yard and even on the side of your home. These tunnels are often constructed by organ pipe mud dauber wasps to store their larvae. Termites are also known to build tunnels that look like mud but are made from a combination of soil and wood along with a substance consisting of their saliva and feces. You might find these lining walls and floors, acting as a sure sign of infestation if you find them in your home. Learning about the signs of pest damage will make it easier for you to act quickly to resolve the problem. Pest damage isn't always obvious, and taking the time to perform a thorough inspection will allow you to stay on top of any situation that may arise.

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

Bernadette altomare, 72, of Center Valley, passed away on February 5th, 2023, in her home, surrounded by peace and family.

Bernadette was born in Wilmington, Delaware. Her greatest joy in life was spending time with her family.

Bernadette will be dearly missed by her mother, Josephine Bernier, and Donald Altomare; her children, Stephanie Tyrell (Dean) and Michael Altomare; her grandchildren, Britny Lynn, Ashton Cole, Emerson Paige and Cameron Sage; her great-grandchildren, Parker, Teagan, and Cooper; and her sister, Angela Juba (William).

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. ( 215-536-3343 )

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bernadette’s name to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.

elmer J. Bergstresser, Jr , 92, of Quakertown died February 3, 2023 in his home.

He was the husband of the late Blanche (Hertzog) Bergstresser.

Born in Bethlehem, PA, he was the son of the late Elmer J., Sr. & Edna (Kremer) Bergstresser.

He retired in 1993 from the former Moore Business Forms in Quakertown. After retirement he worked for the PennDOT Driver’s License Center in Dublin, PA.

He was a member of First United Church of Christ in Quakertown.

He is survived by a daughter Linda S. McKee (Gregg Youtzy) and a son David J., Sr. (Susan); Four grandchildren David J. Jr., Thomas J., Mathew, and Michelle; 9 great grandchildren.

He was predeceased by a brother Paul and a sister Elaine.

Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to First United Church of Christ 151 S. 4th St. Quakertown, PA 18951.

James “Jim” Coddington, 80, passed away on February 8th, 2023, in his home.

Born in Ashland, PA, he was the son of the late William Coddington and Anna Coddington (Mannion).

Jim graduated from Mt. Carmel High School.

He proudly served in the United States Army. Jim was a parts manager for State Equipment and Furnival Machinery.

In his free time, he loved to collect trains, have a good time, and spend time with his family.

Jim will be dearly missed by his wife, Janet, together they shared 53 years of marriage; his son, James Coddington (Janet); and his grandchild, Sloane Coddington.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. 215-536-3343

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim’s name to the American Legion.

John Joseph diCaro, 62, of Quakertown, passed at his home on February 25, 2023.

He was born in Philadelphia on May 31, 1960 to the late John and Mary (Hartdegen) DiCaro.

John was the loving husband of Ursula (Feser) DiCaro for 38 years.

He served in the Army for 10 years. After his time in the service, he devoted his life to being a social worker. He loved helping other people. He loved listening to his favorite rock classics.

John is survived by his wife; daughters Jennifer (Anton) Oldham, Danielle (William) DiCaro and Evelyn DiCaro; sisters Mary Ann (Michael) Cragin and Nancy Walters; many grandchildren; and many other loving family and friends at home and back in Germany.

All are invited to Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 135 W. Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951 on Saturday, March 4 to a visitation from 10:00-11:30am and a memorial service at 11:30am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Disabled American Veterans at www.dav.org.

ronald lee ewashko sr , 73, of Quakertown passed away at his home surrounded by his family on February 23, 2023.

He was born in Quakertown on June 7, 1949 to the late Peter and Dorothy (Andrews) Ewashko.

Ronald served in the US Army during the Vietnam War.

He was the loving husband of Sharon Ewashko for 22 1/2 years.

Ronald worked in construction his entire life as a heavy machine operator and foreman. He loved to farm and garden in his spare time.

He was an excellent woodworker.

Ronald is survived by his wife; children Ronald Ewashko Jr., Joseph (Liz) Ewashko, Matthew Ewashko, and Michael Ewashko; step-children Jennifer (Kenneth) Langan, John Frable, and Alyssa Whitebread; 11 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; sisters Sandy (Dennis) Fair, Patty Gerber, and Linda (Alan) Herb; and many other loving family and friends.

All are invited to a celebration of life for Ronald on Saturday, March 4 from 12-4pm at the American Legion Post 242, 610 E. Broad St., Quakertown, PA 18951.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the family to help cover expenses.

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

russell l. FisCher, Jr., 91, of Telford formerly of Philadelphia and Lansdale died February 23, 2023 at The Lutheran Community at Telford.

He was the husband of Doris (Meyers) Fischer. They were married 65 years in October.

Born in Philadelphia he was the son of the late Russell & Edna (Price) Fischer.

For 22 years he worked for the former Harris Kia of Lansdale. Prior to that he was a Test Set Engineer for 40 years with A T & T. Russell was an Eagle Scout in 1947 and he planted 100 Christmas Trees on Hawk Mountain in Kempton. He was a member of Christ Lutheran Church in Harleysville. He was a U.S. Army Veteran serving during the Korean War.

In addition to his wife he is survived by a daughter Jane Krupp (Mark), of Harleysville, two sons Russell L. Fischer, III (Pam) and David A. Fischer (Dawn) all of Quakertown; Seven grandchildren Amanda, Ashley, Dillon, Zachary, Christopher, Dominique, and Adam; Five great grandchildren Zoe, Kieran, Sophia, Colton and Ezra.

Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Christ Lutheran Church 221 Mainland Rd. Harleysville, PA 19438 or to Lutheran Community of Telford 325 E. Church Ave. Telford, PA 18969.

karen e. Fothergill, 83, of Perkasie formerly of Southern California and Oregon, died February 4, 2023 in Jefferson Lansdale Hospital.

She was the wife of the late J. Bruce Fothergill.

Born in Detroit, Michigan she was the daughter of the late Robert & Thelma (Aldrich) Bever.

She retired as an Administrative Assistant for the State of Oregon. Prior to that she worked for Boberick, Inc,. in California.

Karen enjoyed playing bingo, doing word searches, and bowling with her late husband. She was a former member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in North Hollywood.

She is survived by two sons Michael J. (Pam), and Jeffrey S.; a sister Shirley Arkils; three grandchildren Kevin Doss, Ashleigh Fothergill, and Sarah Ahmed, three great grandchildren Faelyn, Sofia, and Harper.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association 5455 N. High St. Columbus, OH 43214 or the Alzheimer’s Association 399 Market St. Suite 102 Philadelphia, PA 19106.

katherine n geroni, 91, formerly of Riegelsville died February 26, 2023 in Saucon Valley Manor Hellertown, PA.

She was the wife of the late Gerry Geroni.

Born in Hammonton, New Jersey she was the daughter of the late William & Christine (Murse) Pinto.

She retired from the family business MarVan Industries in Dublin after 40 years of service. She was also a member of the Eastern Upper Bucks Senior Citizens, where she enjoyed playing pinochle with other members. She was a member of the Dublin Lions and the Dublin Lioness Club where she served as past president. She was a charter member and past president of the Ottsville Lions Club. Katherine also served on the board of directors of Camp Kirby. Katherine enjoyed crocheting and reading. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Parish in Ottsville where she was on the Church Altar Society.

She is survived by her five children Jerry, Jr. (Denise), William J., Ralph (Patricia), Cynthia K. Hari, & Petra Ann Kohler (Ronald); three brothers James Pinto, Anthony Pinto (Marie), Joe Pinto; three sisters Josephine Chalk, Annamae Ruetzel, Marion Valentino; ten grandchildren Jerry, III, Kevin, Raphael, Richard (RJ), Michael, Thomas, Deidre, Christopher, Robert, William and nine great

grandchildren Mackenzie, Dylan, Charles, Sebastian, Jacob, Celine, Sophia, August, and James. She was predeceased by a brother William Pinto Jr. and two sisters Marie Zirillo and Christine Crescenzo.

A Mass will be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Parish 4050 Durham Road Ottsville, PA 18942. Call 10:00-11:00 A.M. in the church. 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 the church at the above address.

susan kenney hansen, 69, of Alburtis, Pennsylvania, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, February 10, 2023, at her home.

She was the loving wife of Colin W. Hansen with whom she shared 45 years of love, adventures, and friendship.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Richard J. Kenney and Alice G. (Wilkes) Kenney.

Susan was a Christian who lived out her faith in her Savior, Jesus Christ. A life-long teacher, she substituted for many years in the East Penn school district after retirement. She was an extraordinary seamstress, an outstanding homemaker, and an avid reader and student of history. As a lover of learning, she worked diligently to master calculus and, most recently, quilting. Her creativity, thoughtfulness, and compassion made every occasion a special memory; and her practical, wise advice was always invaluable to her family. She dearly loved her grandchildren and had a special relationship with each one. Susan was deeply loved by her family in return.

In addition to her husband Colin, Susan is survived by her daughter Jenny and sonin-law Jason Noel of West Warwick, Rhode Island, son Jeremy and daughter-in-law Tiffany (Rupert) Hansen of Allentown, and daughter Ellen and son-in-law Dustin Grow of Breinigsville; and grandchildren Jason, Jr., Kate, Meg, Brody, Ben, and Vivienne. She is predeceased by her sister Bobbie Strong and brother Richard Kenney and is survived by her sister Lynn Kenney of Houtzdale, Pennsylvania. She is also survived by nieces and nephews.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. 215-536-3343

ruth hintzen, 94, of Quakertown, passed away on January 31st, 2023, at Independence Court of Quakertown.

Ruth was the daughter of the late Mariano LLoret and Emma LLoret (Chadwick).

Ruth is predeceased by her husband, Edward Hintzen, together they shared over 50 years of marriage, and her son, Mark Hintzen.

Ruth’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with her family.

She will be dearly missed by her Children, Dawn Schmitt (Donald), Tina Osenenko (Robert), and Scott Hintzen (Elizabeth); her grandchildren, Robert Perry, Tara Ott, Steven Perry, Becky Osenenko, Sarah Osenenko, Joshua Hintzen, Stephanie Hintzen, Jeanette Franklin, Eric Hintzen, Theodore Hintzen, Christopher Anderson, and Joshua Anderson; her sister, Patricia Pataky (David); and many great grandchildren.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. 215-536-3343

John m horne, 74, of Macungie passed away at St. Luke’s Hospice House on February 6, 2023.

He was the husband of Linda (Allison) Horne for 54 years.

He was the son of the late James, Sr. and Mary A. (Mumbauer) Horne. He graduated from Quakertown High School in 1966.

He was a proud U.S. Army veteran for 3 years, serving in Vietnam in 1969 with the 9th Signal Battalion.

John worked at the former Bethlehem Steel printery for 18 years. Then he worked as a cabinetmaker.

He helped his brother coach Connie Mack baseball in Quakertown for several years. He was a member of the Bethlehem Steel printery softball team for many years.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, smoking meat, playing pool and chainsaw carving. John was an avid fan of Quakertown High School wrestling, the Eagles and Penn State football.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, John M. Horne, Jr. and his wife Bethany, two sisters, Bonnie and her husband George Klein, Lori and her husband Raymond Kertesz.

He is predeceased in death by his brother James Horne, Jr. who was married to Darlene (Kuryllo) Horne.

Arrangements are in the care of the Naugle

Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. 215-536-3343

Contributions in memory of John can be made to Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, Suite 300, 3033 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22201.

John Jerdon, 86, of Quakertown died February 15, 2023 in LifeQuest Nursing Center, Quakertown.

He was the husband of the late Doris E. (Wolf) Jerdon.

Born in Philadelphia he was the son of the late James & Lucille (Price) Jerdon.

He retired from the Quakertown Post Office where he was a mail carrier. He was a U.S. Marine Veteran.

John is survived by his two children Karen Heilman of Emmaus and James Jerdon; a sister Mildred Gorman of Philadelphia; three grandchildren Dana wife of Joseph Squillace, Scott, and Kasey (Mark); two great grandchildren Franco and Enzo.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Wounded Warriors online at www.woundedwarriorproject.org/

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

melva kaiser, 86, of Bethlehem, formerly of Coopersburg died February 15, 2023 in Bethlehem Manor.

She was the wife of the late William G. Kaiser.

Born in Ashland, PA she was the daughter of the late Albert & Edna (Schneff) Yarnall.

Before retirement she was last employed in the custodial department of the Quakertown Community School District working at Pfaff Elementary School. Prior to that she was a secretary at Bracalente Manufacturing Group.

Melva enjoyed reading and camping. She and her husband along with another couple took 6 weeks and drove across the U. S. She was a member of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zion Hill where she was a member of the hoagie committee, she was a greeter, and a member of the Women’s Group.

She is survived by her three children Michelle Segan of Slatington, Frank Kaiser and his wife Mary of Quakertown, and Charlene Kaiser and her husband Frank Moldovanyi of Richlandtown; four grandchildren Tammy, Brad, Dana, and Sam, two great grandchildren Shane and Hailee.

She was predeceased by a daughter Colleen “Kelly” Kaiser, and four siblings Doris, John, Albert, Jr. and Marlin.

A Joint Memorial Service for Melva and her husband William will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at 10:00 A.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk. com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown. There will be no calling hours. Interment will follow at Zion Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church P.O. Box 81 Zion Hill, Pa 18981.

ernest perCy leidy, 87, of Telford passed away at his home on February 8, 2023.

He was born in Souderton on November 30, 1935 to the late Oscar and Louise (Kister) Leidy.

Ernest was an avid golfer, reader, and was a student of history. He was a draftsman at LinkBelt in Colmar for most of his life.

Ernest is survived by his daughters Sharon Burke, Deborah Bealer, and Suzanne Palm; grandchildren Michael (Katie), Megan, Kenneth (Jennifer), and Leah; great grandchildren Michaela Peters and Sophia Burke; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents; and all of his siblings.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made in Ernest's name to a charity of your choice.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. 215-536-3343

miChael lindmeier, 77, of Perkasie, passed away on February 24th, 2023, at Jefferson Lansdale Hospital.

Born in Quakertown, PA, he was the son of the late Joseph Lindmeier and Margaret Lindmeier (High).

Michael graduated from Quakertown High School in 1963 and then went on to continue his education at Long Beach City College in California.

Michael proudly served in the United States Navy for two years. He worked at Hunter Spring in Hatfield, RugMart in Sellersville, and BJ’S Carpet in Landsdale. Michael also drove buses for Bucks County and he would help take veterans in need to their doctor appointments.

~Obituaries~

In his free time, Michael enjoyed reading, looking at antique cars and hot rods, he loved animals, especially dogs, and had a passion for raising orchids.

Michael will be dearly missed by his wife, Doris (Scholl) Lindmeier, together they have shared 57 years of marriage. His children, Steven Lindmeier (Lorilynn) and Suzanne Lindmeier (Rick Malone); his 3 grandchildren; his 1 great-grandchild; and his siblings, Thomas Lindmeier (Miriam) and Sally Lindmeier (Brent); as well as many loving family members, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. 215-536-3343

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Michael’s name to Last Chance Ranch in Quakertown or St. Andrews UCC in Perkasie.

roBert (BoB) ellsworth mCintyre, 89, of the Lutheran Community at Telford, passed away on February 9, 2023, from natural causes.

Bob was born on April 20, 1933, to Robert Henry and Grace Lillian (Hartman) McIntyre in Germantown, PA. He was raised in Royersford, PA along with his older sister, Grace.

After Bob graduated from Royersford High School in 1951, he studied at Berean Bible School in Allentown, PA for three years. He then studied at Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL. While at Berean Bible School, Bob met Marilyn Jean Roberts and they were married on June 16, 1956. Bob and Marilyn went on to have two children, Mark Henry, and Marjory Ann McIntyre.

After he graduated from Wheaton College in 1957 with a degree in Christian Education, Bob began ministry in the Mennonite Brethren in Christ Church in Jersey City, NJ. Bob served in several different mission locations with the denomination for 6 years. He also served briefly in 1963/64 in a missionary internship in Royal Oak, MI. After leaving these ministries, Bob settled in Allentown, PA and worked as a house painter until he accepted a job teaching 5th Grade in Washington Township, NJ. During his tenure as a teacher, he continued living in Allentown. Bob accepted a call to pastor Christ Baptist Church in Quakertown, PA in the early 70s and eventually moved to Quakertown in 1973 where he resided until he moved into the Lutheran Community at Telford, PA in 2019.After leaving the ministry at Christ Baptist in 1980, Bob became a member of Hilltown Baptist Church and was self-employed as a house painter and handyman until he retired.

In retirement, he enjoyed working in his wood shop doing furniture repair and creative wood turning. He had a special joy in using his giftings to bless mission endeavors at home and abroad.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his sister.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; children: Mark (Alice) McIntyre, Marjory (Steve) Hailstone; grandchildren: Katharine (Michael) Cocco, Mitchell (Betsy) Hailstone, Meagan (Chance) Furgerson, Wayne (Rebecca) Hailstone, Abigail McIntyre, Anna Hailstone; great grandchildren: Naomi and Henry Cocco, Mary, James, Elliot, and Claire Hailstone.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the mission’s fund at Hilltown Baptist Church.

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

Charles l mundy, 92, of North Wales, PA passed away on Feb. 14, 2023. He was born in Steinsburg, PA on Sep. 26, 1930 to the late Raymond and Elsie (Kramer) Mundy. He was the loving husband of the late Bertha (Afflerbach) Mundy for over 55 years. He was a house painter for Wolfinger Painting and Papering for over 35 years. He was an avid Phillies and Eagles fan.

Charles is survived by his daughter Linda (James) Schiele; sister Doris Neiman; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents; wife; and siblings Raymond, Margaret, Florence, Walter, Barbara, Harold, Eleanor, and Richard.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to his lifelong church, St. John's UCC, PO Box 356, Richlandtown, PA 18955.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. (215-536-3343)

marlyn ellen oliver, 84, of Quakertown formerly of Doylestown died February 16, 2023 in LifeQuest Nursing Center, Quakertown.

Born in the Germantown Section of Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Samuel G. & Pinkie “Mae” (Vought) Calloway.

She retired from R & B Automotive in Colmar. Prior to that she worked for the BonTon Department Store (Formerly Hess’s) and Rudolph’s Army & Navy.

She enjoyed entertaining and going to see live music especially Frank Sinatra. She also enjoyed vacations and cruises with friends. Marlyn loved the Philadelphia Eagles. She volunteered at C. B. Ambulance helping with Squad functions. But mostly Marlyn enjoyed all of her grandchildren.

She is survived by her three children Robert G. Oliver, Jr., of Doylestown, Valerie M. Oliver, of the U.K. and Brian S. Oliver of Quakertown; two grandchildren Taylor Williams and Chase B. Oliver; and three step grandchildren Caitlin, Chelsea, and Chantel.

In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to Caring Hospice 400 Commerce Drive Suite C Fort Washington, PA 19034.

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

mary a orliC, 98, of Quakertown died on Thursday, February 23, 2023, in her home. She was the loving wife of Michael Orlic who passed away in 2017.

Born in Bucks County, she was the daughter of Fedele and Rose (Deluca) Coladonato.

She was one of five siblings. She worked in a clothing factory and later was a stay-at-home wife and mother.

She is survived by her son, Michael W. Orlic Jr.; sister, Julia Coladonato, many nieces and nephews; as well as close family friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to the church at the address above.

Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 West Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-3343

graCe pepe, 71, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on February 18th, 2023, at LifeQuest Nursing Center.

Born in Sellersville, PA, Grace was the daughter of the late Salvatore Pepe and Rita Pepe (Biehn).

Grace graduated from Pennridge High School in 1971. She then went on to work at BARC for over 40 years and proudly retired in 2020.

In her free time, Grace enjoyed playing board games, card games, hook yarning, watching her favorite movie, Grease, and going on family vacations to the beach and Disney World. Grace’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with her family.

Grace will be dearly missed by her siblings, Mary Ann Yankowski (Anthony), Gloria Harris, Rita Gunder (John), Carolyn Pepe, and Sister Elizabeth Pepe OSF; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Grace is predeceased by her sister, Helen Pepe, and her brother-in-law, James Harris.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. 215-536-3343

edward george pertuit, 79, of Coopersburg passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on February 3, 2023.

He was born in Philadelphia on July 21, 1943 to the late Edward and Laura (Anderson) Pertuit.

He was the loving husband of Caroline (Peters) Pertuit for 55 years.

Edward worked for Acme for 44 years in various departments.

Edward and Caroline loved the outdoors, traveling, and visited many national parks together. He was a faithful member of Quakertown United Methodist Church and served on the missions team. Together he and Caroline went on many missions, both national and international. He also served as an usher for the church. Edward loved spending time with his family, especially his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Edward is survived by his wife; daughter Beverly (Scott) Shymon and Karen (Philip) Detweiler; grandchildren Erica, Elissa, Emma, Kelsi, and Sarah; great grandchildren Destinee, Kaydin, Emmalyn, Savannah, Aurora, and Travis; sisters Donna Holland and Elizabeth Smith; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents; and sister Sandra Hathaway.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Quakertown United Methodist Church, 1875 Freier Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. 215-536-3343

thomas howard rhoads, 59, of Brookhaven, passed away on February 5, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on May 8, 1963, to Linda (Davis-Rhoads) Duck and the late Thomas

Howard Rhoads Sr.

He was the caring husband of Bonnie (Cleary) Rhoads for 37 years.

Thomas enjoyed working with his hands and was a lifelong handyman. He was also an avid bowler, card player, and die-hard Philadelphia sports fan.

Thomas is survived by his wife Bonnie; mother Linda; stepfather Bob Duck; daughters Brittany (Brian) Moran and Chelsea Rhoads; siblings Cathy (Douglas) Monroe and Michael (Jackie) Smith; niece Emily (Bryan) Calvetti; nephew Ross Monroe; and many other loving family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Philadelphia Zoo or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research .

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. 215-536-3343

william F. sCott, 93, passed away on February 12th, 2023.

William is predeceased in death by his wife of 69 years, Ruth Scott (Molz).

He is survived by their children, Sue Howard from Quakertown and Robert Scott (Debbie) from Ohio; his grandchildren, Bailey and Amanda Moore from Quakertown, John F. Scott from California, William K. Scott from Florida, Heather Aiken from Ohio, and Sunnie Barker from Ohio.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. 215-536-3343

donald r shelly, 87, of Quakertown died February 26, 2023 in Grand View Hospital, Sellersville.

He was the husband of the late Esther M. (Roberts) Shelly.

Born in Doylestown, PA he was the son of the late William & Virginia (Markley) Shelly.

He was a machinist for Bracalente Manufacturing in Trumbauersville before retiring.

Donald was a member of the NRA. He was an avid fisherman and hunter and was a member of the Great Swamp Fish & Game, and the Souderton-Harleysville Fish & Game. He was a very giving person who was always willing to help others. He was the best father and grandpop. Donald was a U.S. Air Force Veteran.

He is survived by a son Donald A. (Jean),

a daughter Linda; six grandchildren Samantha Krum (Kevin), Nicole Musselman (Chad), Paige Malanga (Chris), Dayna Shelly (Tom), David Roskow (Venessa Black-Roskow), and Jessica Chapman; six great grandchildren Trevor, Kenzie, Brenden, Zane, Hayden, and Sabriena. He is also survived by a step-sister Margaret Kulik. Predeceased by a son Douglas.

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

BarBara lee shinn, 76, of Quakertown, passed away on February 9th, 2023, at Independence Court of Quakertown.

Barbara was the daughter of the late Charles Suelke and Eva Suelke (Wambold).

Barbara was a go-getter, she was tough, determined, and nothing could stop her. She loved the Lord and was born again in her late 30’s. Barbara and her husband, Charles, treasured life and were always willing to help someone in need. Barbara and her husband worked with Crossroads Pregnancy Care and helped many families in need. Barbara also participated in many ministries throughout the years, supporting missionaries in the U.S and abroad.

Barbara volunteered at Christ Community Bible Church. She was a great Sunday School teacher and always had arts & crafts ready for the kids to make at school. In her free time, Barbara enjoyed sewing quilts, gardening, cooking, and baking. She was a great cook; she could make anything. Barbara’s greatest pleasure in life was spending time with and supporting her family and children.

Barbara will be dearly missed by her husband, Charles Shinn, together they shared 58 years of marriage; her children, Vickie Hagenbuch (Michael), Lorie Shinn, Fran Baughman, and Letitia Hinkie; her siblings, Kenneth Suelke (Becky), Nancy Vieczorek (Dave), William Suelke (Judy), and Dennis Suelke (Faith); her 10 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the staff at Independence Court of Quakertown for treating Barbara so well, like their own mother. The family says the staff are gifts of mercy and they are truly grateful for the care the staff provided during this difficult time.

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

James snyder, 54, of Quakertown, passed away on February 19th, 2023, in his home.

Born in Quakertown, PA, he was the son of Rosemarie Snyder (Messics) and the late James Snyder.

James graduated from Quakertown High School. He enjoyed life, being outdoors, taking drives, and going to the casino.

James will be dearly missed by his mother, Rosemarie Snyder; his siblings, Craig Snyder, Kimberly Wierzalis (Edward), Jeffrey Snyder, and Misty Gibson (Bruce); as well as his extended family.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. 215-536-3343

mary aliCe stahr, age 94, of Richlandtown, PA, passed away on February 8, 2023 at Phoebe Richland Health Care Center in Richlandtown, PA.

She was the spouse of John Stahr, with whom she shared 64 years of marriage.

Born in Quakertown, PA she was a daughter of Elias Durn and Esther Wentz Durn of Quakertown, PA.

Mary graduated from Quakertown Senior High in 1946. She later attended cosmetology school.

She was a member of Quakertown United Methodist Church. She was a member of Lenape Chapter 339 of the Order of Eastern Star. She was also an artist who enjoyed painting local covered bridges, old barns and historical buildings.

She was self-employed as a hairdresser until retiring in 1991.

She is survived by John Stahr, Jr. (Son), Susan Ketterer (Daughter), Nicole Ketterer

(Granddaughter), Kai Blanchard, and Kendall Blanchard (Great-grandchild).

A memorial service will be arranged at the family's convenience at a later date. Contributions in her memory may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, c/o Rajah Shrine, PO Box 40, Blandon, PA 19501.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA, 18951. 215-536-3343

delores s. torr, nee Sutters of Quakertown, formerly of Bedminster Township and beloved wife of the late Edward C. Torr, passed away peacefully with her children by her side on Wednesday, February 15, 2023. She was 93.

Born March 20, 1929, to the late James M. Sutters and Amanda M. Sutters, nee Rankin in Philadelphia. Raised in Jenkintown, Delores graduated from Jenkintown High School.

After she graduated started her career in retail working for Strawbridge & Clothier Department Store. Later she worked in the Bill of Lading department of Vicks an overthe-counter drug company in the Philadelphia region.

She met Edward at the Willow Grove Roller Rink, and they married in 1949. They moved to Bucks County and restored an 1818 farmhouse, they named Bayberry Farm. Delores enjoyed sewing, knitting, painting, drawing and had a love for animals, even those her children brought home. While her son was in the Boy Scouts of America she volunteered as a den mother. She was a devotee of her family genealogy and was a member of the DeHaven Club and corresponded with many people across the United States and Europe in search

Experiences in Nursing

BY PALMA MOYER, RN

Looking back on the changes in health care over the past 60 years it is amazing how much the prenatal care for pregnant women and the care of newborns has progressed. We now have amazing ICUs for premature and sick babies with fantastic care. Fifty years ago I was pregnant and had a complication called polylhydramnios, a condition causing excessive amniotic fluid accompanied by excessive drooling. This condition happens if you are having twins or a birth defect. Most people had difficulty being around me at times. I had frequent bouts of projectile vomiting. My doctor was a very kind man and was as supportive as he could be, but at that time there was no ultra sound, and x-rays were not done readily. I was working 11 to 7, helping my husband through collage and had no insurance. My pre natal visits consisted of blood pressure checks and weight gain.

I went into labor around my 7th month of pregnancy. At that time my doctor told me that

I was going to have a child with birth defects since he could hear only one heartbeat.

I worked at that hospital so I tried to prepare my coworkers on what to expect.

“D day” arrived and I delivered a beautiful tiny baby boy. I asked what was wrong with him. I was told nothing except he is small, just one pound 13 ounces and he was taken to the nursery. It was a small hospital and the delivery room nurse was also the nursery nurse.

I asked the cleaning lady to please call the doctor and nurse back to the delivery room where I delivered another tiny, but perfect baby. They were both perfect but small. They both died within one day of each other. Had this happened today I would be the mother of adult twins.

When I see pregnant women today I am so thankful for the medical progress that gives us happy, healthy moms and babies for We Are Fearfully And Wonderfully Made.

~ Palma Moyer, RN class of 1957 TUH Palma will be SHaring more of Her exPerienCeS and PerSPeCtiveS on nurSing. SHe Can be reaCHed at dontHelPmemoyer@aol Com

New Chapter of Military Order of The Purple Heart Formed

My name is Bob Lord and I am the Commander of the newly formed Rich Quinn Chapter 004 Military Order of The Purple Heart for Combat Wounded Veterans in the region. The chapter has been revitalized with the specific intent of helping needy Veterans and their families.

Our previous membership has been scattered throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware for quite some time. Our goal is to reunite, strengthen and increase the Chapter's membership. We strongly believe that there is strength in numbers. Thus far however, it has been at best a challenging task with sadly disappointing results. Apparently, there are no current and accurate sources from which to draw the information needed to reach out. Those few sources are ten years old and obsolete.

Your assistance is requested in identifying

any member of your organization who may also be eligible for membership in Rich Quinn Chapter 004 or any individual who is currently a member of The Military Order of The Purple Heart but unassigned to any specific chapter.

Membership in more than one Veteran organization is commonplace. Most of our Chapter 004 members belong to other organizations such as yours. We certainly support and encourage such diversity of efforts. One can never know where a great idea will be found.

As an added inducement, The Department of Pennsylvania has agreed to cover any costs associated with any such enrollment or transfer. There is no cost to enroll or transfer.

In as much as we share the goal of service to our Veteran members, I thank you in advance for your attention to this important effort.

of family information. She embraced technology to give her faster information on her family history. Delores also made hand-poured bayberry taper candles and gave them to family and friends far and wide. A love of history and reading brought her to open a bookstore in Quakertown called Paperbacks Unlimited. When Ed retired, she assisted him in his new found creative business called The Tin Tinker where he made tin Christmas ornaments, they sold at high-end craft markets.

She is survived by son Craig S. Torr and fiancé Andrea Kreisher and grandchildren

Emily Matuczinski (Markus), Michael Torr (Sarah), Chelsea Torr, (Mitch Berger), Phillip Torr, Jeremy Torr (fiancé Kristen Novak), Daughter Lorrie Clauss (Andrew Clauss). Grandchildren Adam Torr (companion Candice Feldman) Caryn Dotter (Keith), Bill Torr (Edie), Scott Torr, and five great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

Her son Edward C. Torr, Jr. and grandchild Andrew Torr predeceased Delores. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown.

mary ann windmassinger, 72, of Quakertown died January 24. 2023 in her home.

She was the wife of Mark Windmassinger, Sr. They were married 39 years on September 13, 2022.

Born in Union Town, PA she was the daughter of the late Wallace E. & Anna C. (Maher) Bierer.

She retired as a Scale Master for Plumstead Quarry.

She was a member of the Quakertown American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, and a Legion Rider for Riegelsville American Legion. She was a former manager at the Keelersville Club, and a member of the Perkasie Owls.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by three children Annemarie WindmassingerMarino (Brian Minnes), Retired Marine Gunnery Sergeant Mark Windmassinger, Jr. (Melissa), and Mitchell Brown (Bryann); six grandchildren Tegen, Casey, Chase, Evelyn, Piper, and Mark III(Tripp).

She was predeceased by her brother James. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Semper Fi & Americas Fund www.thefund.org

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

william e. “ButCh” yerkes, Jr , 57, of Quakertown died February 15, 2023 in his home.

Born in Quakertown he was the son of the late Judith L. (Bossert) Yerkes.

William was last employed as a meat cutter for Moyer Packing. He was a graduate of Quakertown Community High School where he enjoyed playing sports. He enjoyed professional wrestling and all Philly Sports Teams.

He is survived by a sister Lisa Green (Terry) and a brother Curtis C. Yerkes (Heather Dieterly); three nieces Ashley, Carroll, Kaci, three nephews Donavan, CJ, and Shaun.

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

American Legion Post 242

BY DICK HELM

As we watched the opening introductions and excitement of the teams as they entered the stadium as well as the playing of our National, my wife and I were enjoying the hoagies we picked up at the Post. The Ladies of our Post had a special hoagie sale with the proceeds to help pay our new sign. Not only were the hoagies fresh, meaty, and totally delicious-- the hoagies were very reasonably priced. As we waited for our preorder we noticed a special “wings” sales probably held by the sons and purchased a plate full to enjoy during our special Super Bowl meal! My wife and I wish to thank all involved for a great economical meal. It is a shame the Eagles failed to deliver a wonderful dessert!

As I mentioned before, the new roof is on and looking great. The cement pad is ready for our new electronic sign. (Within days of being delivered and hooked up.) The Post’s Friday night, open to the public, special meals are becoming known and attendance has been picking up. So make it a point to check for what is on the menu. (As I write this on a Friday, I am anticipating tonight’s Fish and Chips and my wife is planning on having their Pot Roast with all the trimmings. Both priced $10.00 and under!) Where else can you enjoy a meal such as these in a smoke free environment! Charlie Wismer told me we are at 88% renewal for membership. Let’s make it 3 years in a row that we reach 100%. Remember our Post has many ways that you can be a member including the obvious being a veteran or on active duty, being a son of someone who served or a lady helping in our Ladies support branch. A certain regulated amount of persons can be “Honorary Members.” So when you stop on to enjoy a Friday night meal, or Cheese Steak night, or Sons monthly breakfast, ask us how you to can be a member of this worthy organization that

Update

is ON THE MOVE!

March is going to be a special period for those who served during what is known as the Vietnam period (I believe the date are 19551975) either in the war zone or on active duty in any service branch elsewhere in the world.) Our Post is having a special event on Sunday, March 26th including a buffet (free to the veteran) between the times of 11:00 – 20:00 hours. Come mingle with fellow vets and enjoy the special items and programs being offered for that special welcome back. Look for more information on our new sign as the date approaches.

Also in March on March 29th at 11:00 AM, DeSales University in affiliation with the Lehigh Valley Military Affairs Council will host a program entitled National Vietnam War Veterans Day at the University located in Center Valley. Special Vietnam Commemoration metals will be given to former members of our Armed Services during the Vietnam War era as outlined above. A special guest speaker is lined up for this ceremony. After the ceremony they plan to offer refreshment to attendees. To be part of those called forth for presentation of the Commemorative Medal, we ask you to contact Director, Wendy Badman, at 610-2821100 extension 2075. The address of DeSales University is 2765 Station Avenue, Center Valley, Pa 18034. Our local color guard will be there as part of this important “Welcome Home” on this 50+ year celebration of those who came forth to protect freedom and liberty throughout the world.

As a veteran of that period I welcome all the gestures of thankfulness for service we receive today that were seriously overlooked as we returned home from overseas. I thank all those who in the past few decades who have stepped forward to heal that wound inflicted back in the 50’s through the 70’s as we transitioned back to civilian life after we were ready to give our all for our country.

~ For God & Country, Dick Helm

Lists on the Cellar Door

While watching the Super Bowl, I noticed a few of their very expensive commercials showed that little boxed computer symbol that you could get information on their product from in an instant on you cell phone. Yes, that piece of equipment most carry in their pocket to do many functions and many times are not used to “talk to people.”

As the minutes dwindled down and I had to witness a loss by our local team who are to be congratulated on a wonderful year, my thoughts wandered back to the days when we in the Quakertown area were really rural.

Many of our youth would not know what the term, “Buying on Tick” means. When I go to the grocery store or make a nominal purchase elsewhere, I too use my credit card to get the bonus points on the monthly payoff amount. Back in the day on Friday night, as I mentioned in the past, I too stood in the long lines at the Bucks County Trust Company Bank, to have the cash I needed and to pay my Christmas Club. When you made a purchase, you paid in cash. Sometimes small country grocery stores would let certain people they knew come in and make a purchase, and they would record that purchase in a small black book. When Friday night came, the patron would come to the grocer and pay what he had “bought on tick” during the week in cash. I helped at a gas station occasionally in the evening and was aware of such a book with “certain” names in it that could make gas purchases in this way. The lists on the cellar door that I am telling you about were mainly from either the “Coffee Man” or “Fuller Brush man.” Weekly the coffee man would come in his enclosed delivery vehicle. (It resembled a station wagon but had no windows in the back and had a set of rear double doors. Our coffee man was from the “Grand Union Company.” He not only had coffee or coffee with chick-o-ree; he would sell all kinds of household products. When he arrived, he would come with my Mom’s normal order for coffee, he would also have the “Special Product” they were offering. It could be a special aluminum pan or even a portable record player. Obviously, the normal housewife did not have extra cash at

home; so he would fill out a card with weekly payments listed for that particular item. (Lay way payments). Each week my Mom would have the cash for the coffee and the extra items listed on hard cover cards that the coffee man would initial until the final 100 % figure was reached. As incentive, the coffee man would have a special offering that ONLY could be purchased with “Credits” from other dry good products sold. This special card was reviewed from time to time when something of real interest was shown to Mom. Thus, we always had those lists on a string hanging on the cellar door. It was always exciting to get the fancy thing that Mom was paying on far a few months!

The baker and milkman were different. My Dad would let a certain amount of cash home for these deliveries. The milkman, Leroy Weiss, would come early in the morning and deliver Freeman’s “Best by Test” milk by leaving the glass bottles in the insulated box on the back porch. An envelope would contain the money for payment with our empty bottles. In the spring he would offer strawberry milk and he always-offered Chocolate milk. We very seldom got flavored milk and I preferred the chocolate milk way over the strawberry. Reds Nace would deliver the bread in the evening and always had a special bun with him as he knocked on the door. By this time my Dad was home from work and this was always a good selling point for him, as my Dad could not resist homemade buns. Our previous bake, Brunner’s Bakery would deliver during the day and we missed out on Pop’s temptations. But we still would enjoy their Moravian Buns or Trolley Buns from time to time.

Now people buy the groceries on line and I see the store delivery truck pass early in the morning as I walk with our dog Brandi. I still can’t imagine buying bananas over the phone and not being able to see how ripe, bruised, or large they are! Guess I still have that old instinct of seeing the product I buy. Oh well, back to the football game. Maybe some people pointed their phone at the screen for more information, I must go now, believe it or not my phone still rings and I TALK to people!

Important Birthdays Over 50

Most children stop being “and-a-half” somewhere around age 12. Kids add “and-ahalf” to make sure everyone knows they’re closer to the next age than the last.

When you are older, “and-a-half” birthdays start making a comeback. In fact, starting at age 50, several birthdays and “half-birthdays” are critical to understand because they have implications regarding your retirement income.

Age 50

At age 50, workers in certain qualified retirement plans are able to begin making annual catch-up contributions in addition to their normal contributions. Those who participate in 401(k), 403(b), and 457 plans can contribute an additional $6,500 per year in 2022. Those who participate in Simple Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or Simple 401(k) plans can make a catch-up contribution of up to $3,000 in 2022. And those who participate in traditional or Roth IRAs can set aside an additional $1,000 a year.1,2

Age 59½

At age 59½, workers are able to start making withdrawals from qualified retirement plans without incurring a 10% federal incometax penalty. This applies to workers who have contributed to IRAs and employer-sponsored plans, such as 401(k) and 403(b) plans (457 plans are never subject to the 10% penalty). Keep in mind that distributions from traditional IRAs, 401(k) plans, and other employersponsored retirement plans are taxed as ordinary income.

Age 62

At age 62 workers are first able to draw Social Security retirement benefits. However, if a person continues to work, those benefits will be reduced. The Social Security Administration will deduct $1 in benefits for each $2 an individual earns above an annual limit. In 2022, the income limit is $19,560.3

Age 65

At age 65, individuals can qualify for Medicare. The Social Security Administration recommends applying three months before reaching age 65. It’s important to note that if you are already receiving Social Security benefits, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A (hospitalization) and Part B (medical insurance) without an additional application.4

Age 65 to 67

Between ages 65 and 67, individuals become eligible to receive 100% of their Social Security benefit. The age varies, depending on birth year. Individuals born in 1955, for example, become eligible to receive 100% of their benefits when they reach age 66 years and 2 months. Those born in 1960 or later need to reach age 67 before they’ll become eligible to receive full benefits.5

Age 73

In most circumstances, once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from a traditional Individual Retirement Account and other defined contribution plans. You may continue to contribute to a traditional IRA past age 70½ as long as you meet the earned-income requirement.

Understanding key birthdays may help you better prepare for certain retirement income and benefits. But perhaps more importantly, knowing key birthdays can help you avoid penalties that may be imposed if you miss the date.

1. If you reach the age of 50 before the end of the calendar year. 2. IrS.gov, 2022 3. SSa gov, 2022

4. SSa gov, 2022. IndIvIdualS can declIne Part b coverage becauSe It requIreS an addItIonal PremIum Payment. 5. SSa gov, 2022

tHiS artiCle waS Submitted by bob Podraza of robert JameS inveStmentS at 1313 weSt broad Street, QuaKertown He Can be reaCHed at 215-583-5013 or at robertJameSinveStmentS Com

The 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

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Then Along Came Mary

March is Women’s History Month. I like to keep my Free Press articles about Upper Bucks County (with some personal adventures), but I’ve had trouble finding local ‘historical women’ to write about. I’ve done essays on Susanna Heath Morris and Rebecca Burr Chapman, but my ‘expertise’ is those ‘olden days’. Unfortunately, few women were well documented before the 20th century. I’ve solicited readers for suggestions—their great grandmother, maybe, a businesswoman, politician or another local heroine--but got no response. I recently read about Mary Johnson Ambler (1805-1868), for whom the Montgomery County town is named. She was born in Richland Township and lived here 23 years, so she’s nearly local. Wikipedia categorizes Mary Ambler, ‘Humanitarian’. She organized aid after the Great Train Wreck of 1856 in Whitemarsh, the world’s worst railroad disaster to date. In case you don’t know about her, I’ll tell you some things I’ve learned.

Mary was born to Abigail and Benjamin Johnson on March 24, 1805, just outside the recently named (1803), Quakertown, PA. They were members at Richland Friends Meeting. Mary was noted for a life-long adherence to the Quaker ‘tongue’ (thee, thou, saying ‘FourthDay’ not Wednesday--named for a pagan god), and Friends’ customs and beliefs: honesty, plain dress, continuing revelation and universal equality. She married Andrew Ambler, an apprentice weaver, on May 14, 1829. Mary left Upper Bucks and they moved in with Andrews’s parents at Montgomery Square.

After a three-year apprenticeship with his father, Andrew purchased a fulling mill and eight-three acres in what is now Ambler, PA. [A fuller makes cloth exclusively from sheep’s wool; blankets, rolls of material, clothing]. The mill had been an important employer since 1731, and continued so under Ambler, after expensive repairs and modernizations. Mary and Andrew had seven sons and one daughter. When Andrew died in 1850, Mary and son Lewis assumed management of the mill.

In addition to overseeing the mill’s ‘business-end’, the petit Widow Ambler (she never weighed more than 90 pounds), taught pre-school and religious classes. She was active in Gwynedd Friends Meeting and was known for her care-giving; providing medical attention and companionship to needy of any faith. She participated in community groups and was universally well liked.

At 6:18am on the already oppressively muggy July 17, 1856, Mary Ambler was home preparing her Sunday (First-Day), school lessons when a horrible crash startled her. She looked across a mile and a half of open fields and saw smoke rising above the hedge-line at the railroad right-of-way and faintly heard screaming and commotion. Mary gathered bandages and medical supplies and trod, crosscountry, to be a ‘first-responder’ at the scene.

After a rail line was built to serve Philadelphia’s northwest farm county a grove near Wissahickon Station became a popular recreation spot. The North Pennsylvania Railroad ran “Picnic Special” excursion trains from The City. That Sunday, St Michael’s RC Church in Kensington had chartered a nine car Special to transport nearly 1,500 people: Sunday schools, parishioners, friends and family.

The heavily laden locomotive, Shackamaxon, driven by Henry Harris, left the Master Street depot at 5:10am. Due in Wissahickon at 6:00am, she was twenty-three minutes late.

The locomotive Aramingo, engineered by William Vanstavoren and carrying 20 passengers from Gwynedd, waited at Wissahickon Station the “customary” fifteen minutes for a late train. But excursions ran irregularly and no communications was sent ahead regarding the Shackamaxon’s late departure. Aramingo pushed on down the one-track line at 6:15am. Meanwhile, Harris was finding it difficult to make up time with his heavy load. His effort to reach Edge Hill siding before the two trains met failed.

While Shackamaxon was steaming downhill into a blind curve past Camp Hill Station, blowing her whistle continuously, Aramingo was rounding the same blind curve. They heard, but did not see each other until too late. An eye witness reported, “I saw the down train first (south-bound Aramingo) … It was slacking off as much as it could… (Shackamaxon) was (traveling) pretty smart. They were running about as they cleverly could …. I saw it and the time of collision (6:18am). Eleven of the dead were carried to my shop.”

Upon impact, the boilers smashed together causing an explosion heard for five miles. The lead three cars, the first carrying the ‘older’ children and church leaders, telescoped into the Shackamaxon. Following cars derailed and piled up behind. Splintering wood, screeching iron and the screams and moans of passengers followed the initial crash. Fires started. Hundreds were injured and trapped in overturned, burning cars. Panic and chaos reigned.

Then along came Mary. She calmly took control, enlisting women passengers and on-lookers to render first-aid. While men organized a bucket brigade from nearby Sandy Run, and frantically struggled to pry victims from the flaming wreckage, she sent riders into the townships gathering medical supplies and house shutters to serve as stretchers. Injured were carried to nearby shelter, five to Mary’s home. Mary Ambler worked nonstop for 24 hours. Authorities specifically noted her service as “conspicuous”.

Fire brigades arrived from Chestnut Hill and serious recovery could begin. At least 59 were killed, mostly burned, and over 100 injured. Many bodies were never identified or even found. Only four victims were over 20 years old. The youngest was nine. Organizer Reverend Sheridan and Engineer Harris died. William Vanstavoren blamed himself and committed suicide with arsenic some days later [He was exonerated. Harris was blamed].

Mary Ambler continued to run the fuller mill, making blankets for Union soldiers during the Civil War, and remained a benevolent community figure. She died, aged 63, on August 18, 1868, and was buried at Gwynedd Friends Meeting. In her honor, on July 20, 1869, the North Pennsylvania Railroad renamed the Wissahickon Station, Ambler. When the village was incorporated in 1887, citizens renamed their borough for Mary Johnson Ambler.

Now you know someone born and raised right here who’s worth honoring during Women’s History Month. If you know of any other women we should celebrate, let me know.

JaCK SCHiCK iS a long time QuaKertown area reSident and regular Contributor Here at ubfP. reaCH Him at SJCKSCHC@aol Com

The Process of Creating a Will

BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ.

Having a properly drafted will is absolutely necessary. As I have said time and time before, if you own any property, you should have a will. If you own a business or have minor children, you NEED a will. If you have recently been divorced or inherited a large sum of money, you NEED a will. A will allows you to determine what happens to your property after you die. This is a right that every citizen has, yet for some reason a large number of us fail to exercise it. So what is the process for setting up a will?

The first thing to determine is what property you own and who you want to inherit that property. You can be as specific or general as you want when determining this. You can expressly lay out certain individual pieces of property that you own and who you want to inherit them, i.e. “I give my guitar to my friend Steve Smith and I give my coin collection to my daughter Nancy Jones.” You can also simply divide your estate into shares and give shares to whom you wish. Keep in mind, that if you own all or part of a business, then your business ownership interest(s) should be addressed in your will, unless you have already implemented a business succession plan via separate documents.

Next you will need to pick the person you want to serve as the Executor of your estate. This is the person legally responsible for winding up your affairs and making sure all the filings with the court and applicable taxing authorities are done on time and correctly. This person will also distribute the estate assets

to beneficiaries and pay the outstanding debts of the estate. Ideally this person should be trustworthy and organized. It is not uncommon for an Executor to also be a beneficiary of the estate. I always advise clients to name an alternate Executor, just to be on the safe side.

If you have minor children (under the age of 18), you can use your will to determine who will raise them and handle their finances in the event that you pass away before they reach the age of 18. If you do not address this in your will, then you run the risk of letting a court determine who will raise your children.

Once you have addressed the previously mentioned concerns, the next step is to properly execute the will. A will that is not properly executed can render the document meaningless or potentially leave your estate vulnerable to will challenges from a disgruntled family member. The laws of each state vary for the requirements of will execution, so speak with an attorney in your state regarding this point. After your will has been properly executed, put it somewhere safe, and let your executor(s) know where it is located.

If you need to have a will drafted or amended, sit down with an experienced estate planning attorney who can guide you through the process, and draft around any issues your or your estate may encounter down the road. 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

QCHS Alumni Spotlight: Eric

Breon '96

BY RAY FOX '66

It is with pleasure that the QCHS Spotlight Articles return to their original topic of featuring former Alumni. Many people must have read last month’s article about the Alumni Association Fund Raiser in March because it has already sold out. This month’s article is about Eric Breon, a 1996 graduate from QCHS. After graduation, Eric attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) where he graduated with a degree in Psychology. His life since then has been spent in the western part of the U.S. While in High School, Eric participated in cross country, track, band, choir. He was an excellent student and noted that he especially enjoyed Mr. Sidney Blake’s Honors Chemistry Class. He mentioned that Mr. Blake was a great teacher who had very high expectations for his students, which led them to really understanding the material. Eric’s fondest memories from High School are cross country and backpacking with friends during breaks from school.

When Eric graduated from RPI he decided to head out west. His first job was in Boise, Idaho where he was a rafting guide and worked as an Associate at Highway 12 Ventures. He was with this company from May, 2001 to August, 2003. He has been very versatile and has held many positions since. From August, 2003 until February, 2006, he was a Business Analyst for Capitol One. He moved to Beaverton, Oregon where he was a Manager, Strategist, Analyst for General Finance Solutions from February, 2006 until June, 2008. He then became President of Oregon Green Solutions in Portland, Oregon from June, 2008 until December, 2009. This company provided significant energy savings for its’ clients. More recently, Eric has been Co-Founder and CEO of Vacasa from November, 2009-February, 2020, which is now a publicly traded company (Nasdaq, VCSA). This company has seen phenomenal growth and now manages vacation rentals in thirty-four states and sixteen other countries including Belize and Costa Rica. He has been awarded the OEN Entrepreneurial Achievement Award and the INC Magazine

9th Fastest Growing Company Award.

In retirement, Eric is working on policy interests related to an improved toolset for managing inflation. His goal is to help develop better ways of addressing problems that result in ways that do not create so much hardship for people.

Eric is the son of Robert and Alice Breon, who still reside in Trumbauersville. He has three brothers all of whom are QCHS graduates. Mark graduated in 1999, Scott graduated in 2002, and Keith graduated in 2006. Like his brothers, Eric was very involved in The Boy Scouts of America and became an Eagle Scout. Eric currently lives in White Salmon, Washington with his wife, Alia and their three children; Rhys (12), Rowen (10), and Max (7). Alia is the Medical Director of the Emergency Department at their local hospital. Like Eric, the family enjoys participating in outdoor activities. These activities include kiteboarding, skiing, mountain biking, trail running, rafting, and kayaking. He also enjoys traveling with most recent trips to France and Thailand. The family particularly enjoys their time spent at their cabin on Mt. Hood. They also travel frequently to Mexico, mainly for kiteboarding.

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

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

Troy Kirkwood Named February UBCTS Student of the Month

Troy Kirkwood is a fourth-year Graphic Communications student and a senior at Pennridge High School.

He is a First Honors student and received the Outstanding Student award for Levels I, II & and III in his program. He will be inducted into the National Technical Honor Society this year.

Troy is a valuable member of the Graphic Communication program and our school. His excellent work ethic has made him an exceptional leader in the classroom.

Troy is called upon to do many live print, design, and photography jobs.

Outside school, Troy works five to six days a week in the Food and Nutrition Department at Doylestown Hospital. He is responsible for placing and delivering orders for patients in

the hospital while paying particular attention to each patient's special dietary requirements. After graduation, Troy plans to enter the workforce for a Graphic Communication career.

New Wing at St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus Opens

St. Luke’s University Health Network’s (SLUHN) Upper Bucks Campus is opening its three-story addition March 1, doubling the size of its hospital in Milford Township that was completed in 2019. The official ribbon-cutting was Monday.

The $79 million project adds more than 117,275 square-feet of space dedicated to stateof-the-art cancer care at the Cancer Center and to women’s health, birthing and neonatal care in the Women & Babies Pavilion as well as room for future expansion.

Dennis Pfleiger, President of the Upper Bucks and Quakertown Campuses, said the expansion allows St. Luke’s to continue to meet the growing demand for diverse health care needs of residents of the greater Upper Bucks Community without their having to go far.

“We are excited to enhance close-to-home access and bring our nationally recognized quality care to the growing population of this region and especially to the aging and childbearing age segments,” Pfleiger said. “The demand is only expected to rise as the region continues to grow.”

The first-floor of the new wing expands St. Luke’s comprehensive cancer care and palliative services. The infusion suite has expanded from 10 to 16 chairs and the first floor will also be home to a suite of oncology practices (medical, surgical, radiation, and gynecological.) “The expanded infusion center has lots of natural light making patients’ infusion experience much more comfortable,” said Mary-Kate Cellmer, Administrator of St. Luke’s Cancer Center.

The addition includes the installation of a True Beam linear accelerator giving patients access to highly advanced radiation therapy services at this campus. Patients will no longer have to travel to other Network sites or elsewhere for their radiation services. "Patients can now receive high quality comprehensive cancer services in the Upper Bucks community,” Cellmer said. Shell space for future expansion also is included.

The second-floor addition has five labor and delivery rooms, 12 post-partum rooms, four triage rooms, six NICU beds, and two C-section suites.

“The addition of the Women & Babies Pavilion allows patients who choose St. Luke’s as their OB/GYN to deliver in their community at a state-of-the-art facility with private, spacious rooms, and, if needed a Level II NICU,” said Nicole Nye, Administrator at St. Luke’s OB/GYN. “The opening of the Women & Babies Pavilion allows us to expand OB/GYN services to Bucks and Montgomery Counties and surrounding areas that will enhance their quality of care. It clearly shows St. Luke’s commitment to ‘delivering’ even more for the community.”

The third floor is shelled space to accommodate future growth of the campus based on the needs of the community. It is designed to accommodate 36 medical/surgical beds.

The campus is located at the intersection of Route 663 and Portzer Road, near Route 476 in Milford Township. Construction began in the fall of 2021 and was completed on schedule.

(left) Molasses Creek Dog Training held its Puppy Bowl VII on Sunday, February 5th where dogs and their owners competed for the coveted Vince Lombarki trophy. They raised $775 for the Mullen Family. Thank you to sponsors Karen Quinn, Hometown Town Pet Center, Quakertown Veterinarian Clinic, Perkiomen Animal Hospital, Pets Plus, and Annamaet Dog Food.

(right) Quakertown Community High School senior Rebecca Kadlecik spoke to the Quakertown Business and Professional Women’s group about her experience competing in SkillsUSA District in the field of esthetics. BPW also made a donation to the Upper Bucks Technical School SkillsUSA program. Pictured (L-R) Rebecca Kadlecik, Toni Rubic, and Judy Guise. photo by crystal smith

Where Do Bee Pollinators Go During the Winter?

Well, it depends on the bee. But for all the bees, you can help by providing good habitat for their nests and overwintering places such as twigs, leaves, and logs. As the recent article cited below discusses, “[o]verwintering is a critical step in the life cycle of bee pollinators, so providing this habitat during the winter is as important as providing floral resources during spring, summer, and fall.”

Bees use three types of strategies to survive the Winter.

Active adults: Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are the only species in the mid-Atlantic region that remain active year-round. They overwinter as adults inside the hive and feed on the honey reserves. By vibrating their flight muscles, honey bees generate heat and can actually rear a brood in January so that young worker bees are ready to forage in early spring.

Hibernating mated females: Another strategy used by social bees and some solitary bees is overwintering as adults but in

a hibernating state. This strategy is used by bumble bees, carpenter bees, and some sweat bees. After mating in the fall, females of these bees spend their time consuming as much pollen and nectar as possible before winter to increase their fat reserves. After that, they look for overwintering sites, which can be dry leaves or rotting logs, and then enter a stage called diapause, where bees reduce their metabolism and use the fat reserves to survive the cold winter months.

Diapausing adults or prepupa: The vast majority of bee species in the mid-Atlantic region are solitary and overwinter inside their natal nest. For these species, eggs hatch into the larval stage that can feed on the pollen and nectar provisioned by their mother before they turn into diapausing prepupae or adults in preparation for the winter.

Read on: Margarita López-Uribe, PhD. (2022). “Where Do Bee Pollinators Go During the Winter?” https://t ly/de89J

Article Summary: Cynthia Glass, Master Gardiner: Edited by Joan Pavlica, Master Gardener/Master Watershed Steward Gardening Advice for Spring Plantings – Many early spring plants such as onions, leafy greens, radishes , carrots and other cold tolerant vegetables can be planted as soon as the soil is workable. Grasp a handful of your soil and squeeze. If moisture drips or the soil compacts it is too early to plant. Soil temperature is also an important factor. For example: peas can be planted when the soil reaches a temperature of 40°F. Carrots can be planted when the soil reaches 45°F. Most other seeds need a soil temperature of 60°F to 80°F. Raised vegetable beds are more likely to be ready earlier than ground level gardens. Find the soil temperatures in your area on this website: Soil Temperature Maps | GreenCast | Syngenta (greencastonline.com)

Gardening Tips for March

• Make sure your gardening tools are clean, sanitized and sharpened

• Sharpen mower blades and inspect string trimmers

• Start some seeds

• Wake up your houseplants with fertilizer

• Prune summer blooming shrubs and trees. Remove any damaged or dead branches from

of air) which allow water to drain, nutrients to move in the soil and roots to penetrate. Compaction occurs when pressure is applied which reduces or eliminate the pore spaces making it difficult if not impossible for plants to survive.

• Resist cleaning up your garden beds until after birds are finished foraging seeds and berries, and when spring nectar plants entice hibernating bees and pollinators to come out to play.

Contact the Bucks County Garden/ Watershed Hotline at Bucksmg@psu.edu or 267-483-2020

Our Home Garden/Watershed Hotline is open remotely Monday thru Friday, 9-12 and 1-4.

Our new office is being staffed in person on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Please call before visiting.

Penn State Extension Bucks County, 576 Penns Park Road, Newtown, PA 18940

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

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Quakertown Elementary Receives Book Rewards Vending Machine

BY GARY WECKSELBLATT

A special piece of equipment was recently unveiled at Quakertown Elementary School that could have a positive impact on reading and behavior. A book vending machine was purchased with the help of the Quakertown Community Education Foundation.

Similar to vending machines that pop out soda and snacks, this one drops books. And to receive one, students must earn golden PRIDE tickets for demonstrating Perseverance, Respect, In-control Behavior, Dependability, and Effort. These five PRIDE points are based on PBIS, the Positive Behavior Intervention Support program in place at QE.

“The vending machine works by rewarding kids for good behavior, good grades, good

of vending books with our own personalized reward system could bridge the gap between literacy and engagement. Our long-term hope is that the book vending machine becomes the school's centerpiece and serves as a constant reminder about books and literacy.”

PBIS focuses on creating and sustaining school-wide, classroom, and individual systems of support that improve the educational environment for all children. QE’s aim is to explicitly teach behavioral expectations and then recognize the positive behaviors shown by students. Through PBIS, QE hopes to reduce school and classroom behavior disruptions and educate all students about acceptable school behaviors.

Throughout the year students will earn gold tokens from teachers, administrators, and support staff by demonstrating PRIDE characteristics.

“The book vending machine is a great way to encourage reading and to motivate learners all while rewarding students for great behavior,” said Christa Held, a fourth-grade teacher. “The vending machine will regularly be stocked with fresh, new books that any student will be able to earn and enjoy, fostering their love of reading while building their home libraries.”

Here’s the news I promised you this month. These are my results for my DNA testing. If you want a handsome dog like me, this is what you need to look for. According to the test, I am 40% Pomeranian, 35% Chihuahua, 17% Poodle, 4% Bichon Frise and 3% Shih Tzu. My new dog sister Maisie sent off for hers too and I will report on that next month. I hear the Quakertown High School will be doing The Wizard of Oz as the spring musical. Hmm. Wonder who is playing Toto? You know, I could fit in that basket and be carried around. We’ll have to wait and see what happens.

attendance, and anything else we can celebrate about our students,” Principal Dr. Greg Lesher said. “The PBIS Core Team came up with this idea and our belief is that the combination

Dr. Erin Oleksa-Carter, a member of the QCEF board and QCSD’s Supervisor of Middle Level Teaching and Learning, said “The QCEF board was excited about this unique grant request, and felt that it could excite our students and engage them in reading. The vending machine provides students choice based on their interests and provides a motivation to earn tickets.”

The book vending machine is located in the school’s cafeteria.

Gary Weckselblatt, QCSD Director of Communications, writes about the people and the programs that impact the Quakertown Community School District. He can be reached at 215-529- 2028 or gweckselblatt@qcsd.org.

Volunteers are needed to support the mission of the Advocates for the Homeless of Upper Bucks (AHUB). AHUB is a non-profit organization which serves the needs of the homeless of the Quakertown, Pennridge, and the Palisades areas. One program under AHUB is a volunteer staffed community ministry called Code Blue which provides shelter and a warm bed and meal to the homeless of Upper Bucks County on cold winter nights when the temperature is 26 degrees or below.

Advocates for the Homeless Seeks Volunteers in Quakertown Think Local. Learn Local. Be Local.

This homeless shelter is located at the Masonic Lodge in downtown Quakertown, PA. After a very successful nine years for the program, we hope to broaden our volunteer base for this upcoming winter. Opportunities include: Shelter Admissions staff, Overnight staff, Morning Aide, and more. Season runs

from November 15, 2022 to April 15, 2023. Please consider volunteering with AHUB. Contact us at ahubpa@gmail.com to learn about opportunities. You can also reach us at 267-410-0366, but e-mail is preferred.

AHUB will ensure COVID-19 protocols are in place at the shelter in order to provide a level of safety for both volunteers and guests. This will include regular disinfection of the shelter. About Code Blue Ministry:

Code Blue Sheltering Ministry, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, officially opened in Quakertown on December 1, 2013 after three years of development and provides warm shelter, food, and respectful overnight care for homeless people in Upper Bucks County during times of life-threatening cold weather.

New Vitae Wellness & Recovery HIRING at our Coopersburg and Quakertown locations. We have positions starting at $16/hr. and we can offer a $1.00 shift differential for any 2nd or 3rd shift. We offer medical, dental, vision, 401K, tuition reimbursements, biweekly pay, paid holiday, vacation, sick and personal time off, with accruals beginning the first day of employment; we even celebrate you with a paid day off for your birthday! Contact Stephanie at 610 483 1311 or skalb@newvitaewellness.com

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

The Proper Brewing Company Currently seeking cooks, servers, runners, hosts, and bartenders to join the Proper family. Email kris@ theproperbrewing.com or stop in during business hours at 117 W. Broad Street, Quakertown.

Kulp Roofing & Construction is hiring gutter installers/technicians

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

Biagioli Construction - Laborer/ Helper Wanted For Remodeling Looking for a self motivated person. Experience not necessary, willing to train the right individual. Must have reliable transportation. Contact 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

Indian Valley Chamber of Commerce Announces Award Recipients

The Indian Valley Chamber of Commerce has announced plans for its Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon, taking place Thursday, March 23, 2023, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Indian Valley Country Club, 650 Bergey Road, Telford, PA. This annual luncheon is a time to celebrate the Indian Valley’s businesses and community organizations and to honor those making significant contributions to the region.

the family business. He most recently served as CEO of the Clemens Family Corporation, retiring in 2022.

Godshall’s will receive the 2022 Pillar Award for large business of the year for their continued contributions to building a thriving local economy. With facilities in Telford, Souderton, and Lebanon, Pennsylvania, Godshall’s has grown from a local family butcher shop to an employee-owned company with nearly 600 employee-owners.

Carfagno Commercial Cleaning will receive the 2022 Cornerstone Award for small business of the year for their dedication to supporting the growth of business in the region. Ken Carfagno, founder and president, is a cleaning industry podcaster, influencer, and coach through the Smart Cleaning School platform.

The criteria for the Pillar and Cornerstone awards are that the winner must be a leader in its field, an active member of Indian Valley Chamber of Commerce, a contributor to the economic growth of the community, and demonstrate a significant commitment to the community through civic and volunteer activities.

Care & Share Thrift Shoppes will receive the 2022 Charles H. Allebach, Jr. Community Service Award for their ongoing mission of serving the community, creating a vibrant hub of philanthropy, commerce, and volunteerism that holds a unique and vital space in our region for 48 years and counting.

Douglas C. Clemens will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. Clemens is being honored for his example as a leader in business and in the community. As president of Clemens Food Group, he was instrumental in leading the continued growth and success of

All are welcome to attend this Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon. Tickets are $45.00 per person and are available online at www.indianvalleychamber.com or by calling 215-723-9472.

4.90 6-month

4.95 1-year 5.00

Think Local. Support Local. Be Local.

Spring Cleaning Tips for your Collections

Spring cleaning has its drawbacks and its advantages. The drawbacks are many as no one really enjoys house cleaning all that much. But, once the house is clean, there are some obvious advantages like the discovery of more space, finding long lost items, and quick cash in the form of online sales of that unwanted stuff. For art and antiques collectors, spring cleaning offers a great opportunity to review the condition of art, collectibles, and vintage objects. Deciding to repurpose items can result from a good cleaning spree, too. Identifying what to keep and what to sell can be the benefit of spring cleaning and so can making new display areas within your home.

Here are some tips when it comes to spring cleaning your art and antiques:

Don’t be too hasty to clean an oil on canvas painting. On my video call appraisals, I can’t tell you the vast number of collectors who want to clean their antique and vintage oil paintings. Many paintings don’t need to be cleaned. Paintings will darken over time but cleaning paintings may not be the solution. For instance, if a painting only has minor evidence of surface dirt or dust and it has no evidence of yellowing varnish, leave the painting alone. Never clean a painting using soap and water, an early 1900s technique, because this process will dry out the pigment and the canvas. It will lead to pigment flaking and serious damage over time. If you still want to clean a painting, contact a professional art restoration service.

Don’t be overzealous when cleaning sterling silver pieces like tea sets, trays, water pitchers, picture frames, and candlesticks. This goes for silver plated items, too. When cleaning silver or silver plate, you are basically rubbing off a layer of the metal’s sheen. So, don’t polish your silver too often. Try to polish sterling silver and silver plate items no more than twice a

year, that is every six months. Use appropriate white cotton cloths and recommended silver or silver plate polish. They are different so don’t use silver polish to polish silver plate and vice versa. Be gentle when polishing silver plate so you don’t rub the silver off to the point where the under metal—usually copper—is showing through the silver plating. Flatware of sterling silver should be placed in a protective storage box when not in use.

Crystal and glass items require special care when cleaning. Crystal is supposed to be very clear and attractive when compared to glass items. For cloudy glass vases or bowls, use equal parts of white vinegar and distilled water and wash the crystal or glass object very gently. Try to avoid using any harsh chemicals or cleaning agents on any of your antique items.

Do not submerge any glass or crystal item into standing water that is too cold or too hot as this “shock to the system” may result in cracking your antique or vintage glass or crystal item upon impact. Be sure to keep vintage and antique glass items away from other items that may damage them and never put them in the dishwasher.

The tools that you use during spring cleaning of your art or antiques are just as important as the cleaning supplies and techniques. Cloths that do not leave textile or cotton residue behind are the desirable cleaning choice when it comes to antiques and art. Q-tips or cotton swabs can be very helpful to get into those tight places. And, don’t forget to do your spring cleaning of fragile collectibles while seated at a table when you are well rested and have plenty of time for the task. Happy spring cleaning!.

PH

Home Equity Borrowing

Honda Passport Sport

With more carmakers introducing off-road oriented crossovers and SUVs to their existing lines, Honda has followed suit with their already popular Passport SUV as it’s now offered as an AWD TrailSport model.

The Passport TrailSport has styling changes that exude a more rugged look. Aside from special orange badging both on the exterior and interior, Trailsports’ track was increased by 10 mm for a wider stance and added stability when off the beaten paths. Added too were front/rear bumpers that resemble skid plates plus large 5-inch wide dual exhaust pipe extensions for a touch of sportiness.

Operationally, Honda’s standard torquevectoring all-wheel drive system apportions

warning when an obstruction is sensed.

A 20-inch step-in into the heavily padded rear seats offer an abundance of leg and head room for two adults or three small youngsters.

With a 32-inch lift-over into the cargo area, the area is spacious and rated at 50.5 cubic feet with the rear seats upright that measures 43 inches deep, 48 wide and 31.5 high. Flip the rear seatbacks by pressing two buttons and space expands to 77.5 cubic feet for an impressive 76 inches of cargo loading depth. That’s slightly over six feet of space for a lot of gear, even a mountain bike with the front wheel removed and stacked atop the bike.

clearance helps when traversing mild offroads and deep snow.

Other features include a heated windshield wiper plus a park feature to keep them from sticking during ice and snow conditions, power folding outside mirrors for when the trail narrows, and it’s shod with nine-inch wide off-road oriented Firestone tires.

TrailSport’s interior is exceptionally pleasing with its 8-inch infotainment system that offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto apps, premium audio system, navigation with three rear views including a hitch view that helps when backing up to a trailer.

Absent is a handle gear selector. Instead, the 9-speed automatic transmission is controlled by push buttons for Park, Neutral and Drive gears, but Reverse requires an upwards tug. Paddle shifters are included for drivers who want added control.

Flush mounted HVAC controls are nicely arranged and simple to view and use. Below them is a wireless phone charger on the forward console. And the spacious console box itself has a 13x7.5-inch sliding top that can serve as a work station.

A simple mode switch offers Normal, Snow, Mud and Sand modes and there’s a separate Eco mode switch but doesn’t include a Sport mode. More importantly, the TrailSport doesn’t have an AWD Lock mode for when traction gets difficult in snow and mud. My Honda Ridgeline pickup has a VTM 4-Lock mode so I’m surprised Honda didn’t include it on the TrailSport that’s intended as an off-trail SUV.

Over on the 7-inch digital gauge cluster, it displays a host of details including driver information for functions and alerts with the latter offering a bright orange “BRAKE”

Beneath the cargo floor are two 7-inch deep bins for small items storage that shares the space with a space saver tire, jack and tools.

Passport TrailSport gets its grunt from a standard 3.5-liter, V6 that produces 280-hp and 262 lb/ft of torque for EPA mileage estimates of 19 city, 24-highway mpg with the standard 9-speed automatic transmission. Included is remote start on the keyfob that’s nice to have on cold mornings. The 3.5L is a quiet and proven engine and one that’s in my Ridgeline pickup as well as other Honda’s. So powered, it carries a tow rating of up to 5,000 pounds which is enough for a pop-up camper, a 14-foot boat or a utility trailer.

Ride wise, and like all Honda crossovers/ SUVs and pickup, it’s car-like. With 18-inch Firestone tires, the ride is smooth even on back country bumpy, unimproved roads. It handles exceptionally secure and planted in hair-pin turns with negligible body lean.

TrailSport came loaded with a host of standard features including a moonroof. On the standard safety side, it has blind spot monitor w/rear cross traffic alert, collision mitigation braking, lane keeping assist, road departure mitigation, tire pressure monitoring and considerably more. There was only one extra cost option and that was for Sonic Gray paint ($395) that took the base price of $42,470 to $44,090 with delivery.

TrailSport came with impressive top government 5-star safety ratings of five for an overall score; five for driver frontal crash, four for passenger; five each for front/rear seat side crash; and four for rollover.

If you don’t need a third-row seat and do some off-the-beaten path exploring for hunting, fishing, camping sites, Honda’s Passport TrailSport is not only a good-looking SUV, but a capable one as well.

Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship

Bible Baptist Church

Meets at HIghland Park Dining Hall

415 Highland Park Road

Sellersville, PA 18960

484-523-3333

www.biblebaptistcares.org

Pastor: Tom Harris

Bible Study Hour 9:30 am, Morning Worship

10:30 am, Services interpreted for the deaf

Christ Church United Church of Christ

101 N. Main Street

Trumbauersville, PA 18970

215-538-0142

christchurch10@verizon.net

www.christchurchisalive.org

Pastor: David Heckler

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

Join us at 11am Sunday. Halleleujah!

Christ’s Lutheran Church

1 Luther Lane

Trumbauersville, PA 18970

215-536-3193

christselca@verizon.net

www.christslutheran.com

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

Church of the Incarnation

44 S. 8th Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-538-3787

Ardores@verizon.net

www.IncarnationQuakertown.org

Pastor: Most Rev. Thomas J. Kleppinger

Traditional worship, Biblical faith

Sunday 10:30am, Holy Days as announced.

Emmanuel Episcopal Church

560 S. Main Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-3040

emmanuelchurch11@yahoo.com

www.emmanuelquakertown.org

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

First United Church of Christ

151 S. Fourth Street

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-4447

info@firstUCC.net

Facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertown

Senior Pastor: Rev. Jon C. Bauman

Min. of Visitation & Pastoral Care: Elaine Ely

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

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

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

Live Portrayal of The Last Supper

Trinity Lutheran Church at 102 N. Hellertown Ave. Quakertown will be presenting for the twenty-second year their live portrayal of the Last Supper. The portrayal is based on the Da Vinci Painting of the Last Supper. This is an important part of Holy Week at Trinity. The portrayal is done yearly on Maundy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter. This year the date is April 6, and it will begin at 7:30 PM in the Church. All are welcome.

The portrayal has now had over sixty different participants over the years. It is redone every year and is different every year based on the study that the thirteen participants have done after eight weeks of preparation. This extremely moving portrayal includes words from Jesus that are directly from the Bible. The rest of the portrayal is written by the participants after they hear Jesus say to them, “One of you will betray me.”

Over the years, Ray Fox has been the director and a participant in every

performance. He says,

“It has helped me to learn more about my faith and it brings this important part of the story of Holy Week to life. This year’s participants include Tom Ruffner (Jesus), Dan Hunter (Simon), Mike Carbone (Thaddeus), Mike Heisey (Nathaniel) Mike Juszynski (James the Less), Rich Enders (Andrew), Bill Bohner (Phillip), Harry Haney (Thomas), Riley Ruffner (James the Great), Fox (Peter), Jon Millisock (Judas), and Braydon Ruffner (John). I even remember a time when, we were in our pose representing the Da Vinci painting, one young boy in the congregation asked his father if the people sitting at the table for the Last Supper were real The congregation would like to invite anyone who is interested in attending to see this amazing portrayal.

Additional Holy Week services will be held on Palm Sunday at 9:00, Good Friday at 7:30, and Easter Sunday at 10:00. All are welcome.

Pennridge Christian Fellowship

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

pastor@pennridgecf.org

www.pennridgecf.org

Pastor: Thomas Vargis

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

Quakertown United Methodist Church

1875 Freier Road

Quakertown, PA 18951

215-536-4992

barb@qumc.com

www.qumc.com

Pastor: Rev. Richard K. Brown II

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

St. Isidore Roman Catholic Church

2545 West Pumping Station Rd

Quakertown, PA 18951

(215) 536-4389

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

www.stisidores.org

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

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

www.stjohnsrpa.org

Pastor: Rev Dr. David A Genszler

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

St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown

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

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

St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley

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

stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com www.stjohnsridgevalley.com

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

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

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

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

www.stpaulsqtown.org

Pastor: Rev. David Heckler

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

Pastor: Rev. Trudy Irving secretary@stpaulsucc.net

www.stpaulsucc.net

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

Pastor: Rev. Joseph Wames pastorjoe@springfieldmennonite.org

www.springfieldmennonite.org

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

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

Pastor: Dayle Malloy

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

It's Hard to Give Things Up

BY REV. JON BAUMAN

It’s hard for us to give things up.

I have a building collection of birthday and Christmas cards, cards from church members from different seasons of my time at First UCC, and random cards I get just because. And I can rarely get myself to throw out these cards, even when they fill my drawers or my baskets because they have gained a lot of value to me.

But what about when they begin to take up space that prevents me storing something more needed to my every day life?

I also have a fairly sizable library, that spans 2 walls of my house, and one of the walls in my church office. Some are certainly college or seminary books, but most are now books that I’ve picked up from thrift stores, from online used book sellers, or from kind people who allow me to pick through a library they no longer utilize. Yet, every once in a while, I find a new collection of books that are more valuable to me than the ones I had before, so I have to donate the books I would no longer pull from the shelf, to put up books that I am excited to one day get to. Or at least…that’s my goal.

There are other things that I’ve accumulated over the years that are not as pure-hearted, or as useful: An attitude that compares my home with the home of others, an addiction to scrolling on social media in my downtime, or a desire to debate strangers on the internet. These things, I have to learn to give up too if I want to live more at peace with what I have, if I want to spend valuable

time with my family and friends, and if I’m serious about the whole “love of neighbor and enemy” thing, that Jesus was all about.

It’s hard for us to give things up.

The Christian season of lent is all about prayer and fasting. It’s meant to draw us closer to God to prepare our hearts and minds for the message, the cross, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

When you spiritually fast from meat, or chocolate, or bread, you’re giving something up that you enjoy so that you can focus more on prayer; on your walk with God.

When you fast from tobacco or alcohol, and you have an addiction to either, you’re fasting from something that you enjoy, but that is harmful, in order to strive to rely on God to get you through your desire for the substance that you want to give up for Good.

Some people don’t give things up, but they add things into their life in order to grow closer to God - like reading the Bible, a devotional, or committing to a routine of prayer. Yet even without consciously “giving anything up”, they are utilizing time they would have maybe spent sleeping, watching TV, or scrolling online, in order to devote themselves to faith.

Within the season of Lent, I invite you to give things up, or add things in, so that you can draw closer to God.

It’s hard for us to give things up. But it is good.

PaStor Jon iS tHe Senior PaStor at firSt united CHurCH of CHriSt in QuaKertown. He Can be reaCHed at Jbauman@firStuCC net

Richland Elementary Teacher Named Goyen Literacy Fellow

BY ROCCO PELLEGRINO

Becky Pallone, a first-grade teacher at Richland Elementary, was named a Goyen Literacy Fellow by the Goyen Foundation. The award is given to educators across the country for their evidence-based literacy teaching practices.

The foundation, led by Goyen Executive Director Kata Solow, awarded 11 other teachers with this same accolade from all over the US. The fellowship awards a stipend to the teachers who will then post their lessons in video format. This is designed to allow other educators to learn from the teachers selected.

Throughout Becky’s teaching career, she began to notice a common trend. Around 70% of her students had no trouble reading, but the other 30% just had a more challenging time learning to read. Over the years, the last part began to bother her because she wanted to know why it was harder. When her middle daughter started having similar reading issues in first grade, she wanted to make a change. She had heard of pieces of training from Bucks County IU, a special education school nearby, and she asked her boss if she could attend one of the sessions. When Becky went to one of them, she was shocked.

“Basically, I learned everything that I was doing, everything Quakertown taught me, everything I learned in undergrad, everything

I learned for my Master’s…” Becky said. “Was wrong. Here I was a certified reading specialist, and I was teaching the kids the ‘wrong way to read.’”

She learned that the 30% who had trouble reading would not be able to read at the expected level unless they were taught explicit systematic phonics. The purpose of this instruction is to “teach children sound-spelling relationships and how to use those relationships to read words.” It is a different type of teaching that Quakertown had not taught yet.

“It was a very sad time for me, but it was also good to know I was getting some answers.” Pallone, who was obviously passionate about her teaching, stated. “I went berserk. I started reading anything I could possibly get my hands on about dyslexia and the science of reading… I couldn’t believe I hadn’t heard about this.”

As she learned more and more, Becky began pushing for this type of education to be taught all over the district. She harped on the importance of the science of reading, and she was successful in her pitch. As of last year, all schools in Quakertown began including this in K-5 classrooms.

“Quakertown has come really far within the last couple years. We have an amazing reading specialist, Robbie Distefano…” Pallone said. “I can say confidently that my daughter is in the right spot.”

In effort to share her methods in her own

classroom, Becky, a former Quakertown alum and Muhlenberg soccer star, began posting videos and photos to Twitter. She had around

saw great success on social media with her daily posts. You can find her videos on Twitter @MrsPallone.

“Becky was not just our first fellow. She has also been somewhat of a reading teaching influencer.” Kata Solow said. “Professors from all around the world have reached out to her, and it has been really cool to see.”

Kata said she discovered Becky through Twitter, and that is what made her stand out in the application process for the fellowship in which 12 teachers were selected out of 150 applicants.

“She inspired the idea for the fellowship. I was watching these little snippets of her teaching and making this theory of reading come alive.” Solow explained. “So I thought, what would other teachers and schools learn through her? That helped create the whole idea (of the fellowship).”

The fellowship provides a monthly stipend to the selected teachers in exchange for blogs or videos of the lessons they use in their classrooms. Becky praised the foundation for the idea of the stipend as it encourages teachers to go the extra mile.

250 followers before applying for the Literacy Fellowship from the Goyen Foundation. When she was selected for the prestigious award, her following grew to 3,200. At first, her fellowship was supposed to last 8 weeks, but the foundation asked her to stay on as Pallone

The foundation’s goal is to “amplify the voices of students with learning differences —and support the work of teachers, scientists, and parents doing the same.” If you are interested in learning more about the foundation and the fellowship, go to www.goyen.io.

• Superior patient-focused care

• Better clinical outcomes

• Cost-effective care

• More satisfied patients

St. Luke’s cardiac surgeons and cardiologists work hand in hand as a team with vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists to provide superior care when you need it most.

For more than 20 years, St. Luke’s Heart & Vascular Center has provided the most comprehensive care from minimally invasive procedures to the latest, high-tech innovations to ensure you receive the best cardiovascular care possible.

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866-STLUKES • sluhn.org