What’s Going
On
in Upper Bucks?
ONGOING:
Sign up now: Nov 20, Hunterdon Hills Playhouse Christmas Show w/UB Activity Center. Depart 10am, $129/person. Holiday/ Dance Fest. Caroling, skits, live orchestra. Includes driver tip and a meal. 215-536-3066. Must pay 1 to 1 ½ months before trip.
Watercolor artist of Bucks County, Anne Landis has an exhibit at Richland Library Company, 44 S Main St, Quakertown. Also, an exhibit of Matt Koch’s antique zithers. Handicap accessible. Hours: Weds 1pm-4pm, Sats 9am-12noon.
Now to October- Perkasie Farmer’s Market- Farms, Food & Live Music every Sat 9am-12noon at 7th St. Perkasieborough.org
Now to October- Souderton 3rd Fridays. Friends gather to shop & enjoy good music & food along Main St. Local crafters, Kid’s Zone, art galleries open late. Well-behaved, leashed dogs welcome. FMI 3rdFri.com
FRESH CONNECT Bucks County free farmers market 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 market 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
August 30
Order Hoagies by today for pickup Sept 9 at Trumbauersville Fire Co. To order call Karen at 267-372-1404
“Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl”- Free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
“Get The Led Out” Concert 6pm at Univest Performance Center, 301 W Mill St, Quakertown. Led Zeppelin tribute band, live and loud! Info: concerts@quakertown.org or 215-536-5001
August 31
Springfield Twp Historical Society Church School Open House, 9:30am-12:30pm at 2165 Rt 212, Pleasant Valley (GPS Coopersburg) FREE event. View documents, albums, etc. Questions: Tom Cline 484-308-1510
‘Glenn Pritchard’ 11am-1pm, Free Outdoor Concert at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd.
September 2 Labor Day
September 3
‘Dine & Donate’ 5pm-9pm at J.T. Bankers Grille & Tavern, 309 S Main St, Sellersville. Enjoy a delicious meal. 20% of the proceeds will benefit Last Chance Ranch Animal Rescue. LCR will also have a Basket Raffle.
Rotary Club of Quakertown meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month 7:30am-8:30am at John’s Plain & Fancy Restaurant, Rt 309, Quakertown. FMI call Todd Baringer 610360-9572. Also meets 9/17.
September 4
“Little Red Rooster” Blues Band will perform 7pm-9pm at the Lenape Park Amphitheater, Constitution Ave, Perkasie. Part of the Perkasie Summer Concert Series.
September 5
Upper Bucks Sertoma Club will treat you to breakfast. We meet every Thursday morning 7:30am-8:30am at The Karlton Café in Quakertown. Also meets 9/12, 9/19 & 9/26. (SERvice TO MAnkind) Come join us!
September 6
“Philadelphia Story”- Free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
Line Dancing 6:30pm-9pm with hosts Joanie & Shotgun Jenny at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown, Rm 201. $10 admission. Enjoy a mix of lessons & open dance time! Also on 9/20 & 9/27
September 7
“Thinking of 3” Outdoor Concert 12noon3pm at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown 10th Annual Clambake 1pm-6pm (food served till 5pm) at North Penn Gun Club, 2555 Tollgate Rd, Quakertown. See bartender for menu & tickets: $45 w/clams, $35 chicken only. Featuring the Alex Buono Band.
Annual Chicken BBQ & Bake Sale 4pm6:30pm, Quakertown United Methodist, 1875 Freier Rd, Quakertown. $15/adults, $7/kids to age 10. Take-out meals only. Seating available in Miller Hall for eating boxed meals. All welcome! 215-536-4992
Quakertown Saturday Sunset Social 6pm8:30pm. Will be monthly at 5th St between Broad & Juniper Sts. Theme: “How About Them Apples?” Local vendors & food trucks. Country Fair Contests! Lots more! See advertisement in this issue for more details.
‘Doggie Dip’ at Menlo Aquatics, 425 Arthur Ave, Perkasie 12noon-3pm. Bring your dog for a swim at Menlo Pool. Bring proof of license & vaccinations. $10 a dog w/handler age 14+.
Small dogs to 29 lbs at noon-1:15pm, Large dogs 30+ lbs at 1:30pm-2:45pm. Details 215-257-5065 or google: doggy dip day 2024
Shelly School Homecoming 1pm-2pm- Join us to celebrate 65 years of alumni at the Shelly School & Museum, 130 Richlandtown Pike, Quakertown. Special Guests, Tours, Live Band and a Ceremony at 2pm.
Combat Zone Wrestling’s Breakout Event at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. Tickets start at $20. Bell Time 6:30pm, Room 201. Tickets: czwrestling.com
September 8 GranDparents’ Day
“Shep & Jim” Outdoor Concert 10am-2pm at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown
Perkasie Lions Chicken Barbecue 12noon3pm or sold out. Eat-in or Take-out $15. Complete dinner, beverage & dessert. Perkasie Boro Park, 5th St & Park Ave. Tickets available from Lions Member or on day of event while supplies last.
988 Run out of the Darkness 5K/10K
Charity Run. Begins Lenape Park Little League Ballfields. Check Perkasie Rotary 5K on FB for registration details.
September 10
Virtual chat with NY Times bestselling author Garrett Graff. Talk will focus on “The Only Plane in the Sky: An Oral History of 9/11” & “When the Sea Came Alive: An Oral History of D-Day”. Register: libraryc.org/buckslib/55565
September 11 patriots’ Day
Patriots’ Day Ceremony 11am, American Legion Post 242 at 610 E Broad St, Quakertown END OF SUMMER PARTY at Upper Bucks Senior Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown. $17/person. Lunch Buffet… 1 ½ hrs music w/Caribbean Jeff (tours w/Tommy James & Shondells), then 1 ½ hrs music w/DJ George Bruneio. Sign up by Sept 5. Woman’s Club of Indian Valley will meet 12noon at Telford Community Building, 125 Hamilton Ave, Telford. We will have a ‘welcome back luncheon’. “Who’s Who” in our Woman’s Club. FMI visit Facebook page or call 862-251-3076
Member of Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick’s office will be at 10 S Third Street, Quakertown to answer questions about veterans' services, IRS, Social Security, etc. from 2:15pm-4pm
September 12
“Cybersecurity: Survival 101” 8am-9am at Upper Bucks Chamber of Commerce, 21 N Main St, Quakertown. TeamLogic IT presents a session on cybersecurity facts & tips to protect YOU and your business from email phishing attacks. RSVP at ubcc.org/events
September 13
“Roman Holiday” -Free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
September 14
Quakertown HS Football presents ‘Trivia Night 2024’ at 6:30pm-10:30pm, open 6pm. Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown. $30/person. Teams of 8-10 are ideal. Prizes, 50/50, raffles. BYOB & snacks. Tables: wcarroll1224@gmail.com or 287-968-1024
Free Paper Shred Event 8am-10am at Quakertown Borough Hall, 35 N 3rd St. Maximum of 6 boxes and/or bags of paper. No Household Chemicals, No Commercial Businesses.
Park-Side Food Festival 12noon-6pm at Univest Performance Center, 501 W Mill St, Quakertown. Free Event. Food trucks, Live music, Vendors, Games, Beer Garden. 215-536-5001
AG DAZE 11am-4pm at Molasses Creek Park, 2175 Krammes Rd, Quakertown. Petting Zoo, Free Crafts, Farmers Market, Food Truck, Hayrides. Free Parking & Admission. Trumbauersville Fire Co ‘Touch-A-Truck Event’ 10am-1pm at Christ’s Lutheran, 218 E Broad St, Trumbauersville. Fire Trucks, Big rigs, Farm & Construction Equipment, more. Free event, Donations greatly accepted. Community Canvas: Art, Bites & Beverages, 6pm-9pm at The Gathering Place, 351 W Broad St, Quakertown (enter in back). Local Art vendors, Tarot Readings, Food & Wine Tastings, Basket Raffle. $50/ticket, limited amount of tickets.
Birdwatching 101 presentation 2pm-3pm at Quakertown Library, 401 W Mill St. Join Richland Township Bird Town and learn about what you will need, where to go, and tools you can use. 215-536-3306 or email: warfieldb@ buckslib.org
Flea Market 8am-1pm at Grace United Methodist, 295 S Main St, Telford. September 15
“Avilion” Outdoor Concert 11am-1pm at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown 56th Annual Pennridge Gallery of the Arts, 12noon-5pm takes place in the heart of Sellersville. Streets lined with booths filled with arts/crafts, live music on four stages, fun activities, food trucks, breweries, wineries Souderton Main St ‘Food Crawl’ Fundraiser, 2pm-6pm downtown Souderton. Music, food, art, have fun visiting different stops along Main St. Tickets $55/person. Email: Events@ BeanBagFoodProgram.org
Open House 1pm-5pm, Octagonal Schoolhouse, Corner Swamp Rd & Second St Pike (Rt 232), Wrightstown Township, Bucks County. In operation 1802-1850. Listed on National Register of Historic Places. Betty 215-598-7534
September 17
Fall Porch Signs Hand Painted by You! 6:30pm-8:30pm at The Proper Brewing Co, 117 West Broad St, Quakertown. $55/person. All supplies/guided instruction included. Register: theartoasis.net/shop FMI Lauren 267-245-5938
September 20
“African Queen” -Free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
5th Annual Golf Outing benefitting Perkasie & Sellersville Fire Depts. 11:15 am-12:15pm. Check Perkasie Rotary golf outing on Facebook for details.
Roast Beef Dinner at Highland Park • Saturday, Sept. 21 at 5 PM 415 Highland Park Road, Sellersville. , Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Vegetables, Cole Slaw, Roll, Dessert. $12.00 per person. Children 9 & under $5.00. Please make reservations by 9/19.24. Music by Anthony Porter in Dining Hall. Reservations: or online at 215-257-9987 HighlandParkCamp.org Sponsored by Highland Park Ladies’ Auxiliary to support our Youth Camp.
September 20, 21, 22
“Thumbs” is a comedy thriller recommended for ages 16+ at DCP Theatre, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Performance dates: Fri/Sat at 8pm. Sun at 2pm. (also Sept 26, 27, 28, 29) Tickets: dcptheatre.org
September 21
Indoor Craft Show 9am-4pm in Event Room 201 at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. Local vendors with variety of handmade gifts. 25th Annual Open House 11am-4pm at Last Chance Ranch, 9 Beck Rd, Quakertown. Biggest fundraiser of the year! LastChanceRanch.org 20th Annual Car Show & Raffle at North Penn Gun Club, 2555 Tollgate Rd, Quakertown. $10 Registration fee from 9am11am. All cars welcome! 2:30pm Awards & Raffle. NSRA Inspections, Prizes, DJ, Food (r/d Sept 22)
Outdoor Flea Market Fundraiser 9am-2pm on Riegelsville Library lawn, 615 Easton Rd, Riegelsville. Free admission. Food Tent Concession Stand w/tables & chairs. Vendor info: $15/space. Call Nancy McEvoy at 908319-3706
Fall Festival/Open House 10am-4pm, Strassburger Farmstead, 407 Keystone Dr, Sellersville. Artisans, demos, artifacts, farm animals, Silent Auction, more. Refreshments available. Hilltownhistory.org 267-614-9174
Roast Beef Dinner 5pm at Highland Park Rd, Sellersville. Complete dinner w/ dessert. $12/person, $5/kids age 9 & under. Music by Anthony Porter. Make reservations by Sept 19 at 215-257-9987 or online at HighlandParkCamp.org
September 22 First Day oF autumn 4th Annual Cars for a Cause 9am- 2pm in Downtown Quakertown. Registration $20 (7:30am-9:30am) Enter at Juniper & Front Sts. Awards & Raffle Ceremony at 1pm. Craft Market & Food Court. R/D Sept 22
September 26
Indoor Craft Show/Flea Market 8am-2pm at Good Shepherd Church, 1634 Hilltown Pike, Hilltown
‘Bark Happy Hour’ 6pm-7pm at Hometown Pet Center, 702 W State St, Coopersburg. Free for Dogs & Their Humans. 610-282-5435
September 26, 27, 28, 29
“Thumbs” is a comedy thriller recommended for ages 16+ at DCP Theatre, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. Performance dates: Thu/Fri/Sat at 8pm. Sun at 2pm. Tickets: dcptheatre.org
September 27
Raise Up Our Youth Family Night 5pm7:30pm at Quakertown YMCA, 401 Fairview Ave. Free Event. Inflatable, arts/crafts, games, food trucks. Facebook: Raise Up Our Youth Family Night
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” Free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome.
September 28
“Glenn Pritchard” Outdoor Concert 11am1pm at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown
‘Blessing of the Animals’ 10am-12noon at Grace United Methodist, 295 S Main St, Telford. Blessings shared by Pastor John of Grace UMC & Pastor Bill of St. Paul’s Church. Craft Show & Marketplace Fundraiser 10am-3pm (r/s) at Peace Lutheran, 100 Old Bethlehem Rd, Perkasie. Showcase works of Bucks County & eastern PA’s talented artists. FMI: peace-tohickon.org/craft-show/ Feline Frenzy Music Festival 3pm-9pm with Wheatus, Away Message and Kitty Rotten. Tickets: $20/Eventbrite, $25/at door. Univest Performance Center, 301 W Mill St, Quakertown. Benefits Feline Frenzy Cat Rescue.
Jack-O-Lantern 5K & 10K begins 8am at Richland Twp Fire/Rescue, 64 Shelly Rd, Quakertown. $30/adults, $15/ages 1019, free/ages 2-9. Check for current prices. JOLRaceDirector@gmail.com or ck Facebook.
“It’s A Tail-wagging Good Time” Fall Festival 10am-5pm (r/s) at Lower Milford Twp Building, 7607 Chestnut Hill Church Rd, Coopersburg. Scarecrow building, food trucks, vendors, Cutest Pet Photo Contest & more. FMI 610-967-4949
Flea Market 9am-2pm at Dublin Fire Co, 194 N Main St. Breakfast & lunch are available. R/D Oct 5
Indoor Craft Show & Flea Market 8am2pm at Good Shepherd Church in Hilltown. goodshepherdhilltown.org
WWWA Wrestling 6:30pm Bell Time at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. Room 201. Live pro wrestling from Stars of WWWA. Tickets $20 or $25 for front row. Buy at Raceplace Dept 210 or call WWWA Office at 215-362-7184.
September 28 & 29
Fall Craft & Vendor Show 11am-4p both days at Quakertown Farmers Market, 201 Station Rd. $30/10x10 space for 1 day, $50/ space for both days. Register: 215-536-4115, sara@quakertownfarmersmkt.com
September 29
Designer Bag Bingo, open 11:30am, games 1pm. Sellersville Firehouse, 2 N Main St. $40/adv, $50/door if available. Extras:
raffles, 50/50, Grand Prize Game. All must have ticket. ladiesaux@sellersvillefd.com or 215-257-4028 Ext 6
Mustang Club Cruise Night 4pm-7pm, Country Square Shopping Center, 240-3 S West End Blvd (Rt 309), Quakertown. All makes/models. DJ music, trophies, 50/50, food available. No alcohol! Donation requested per car. Gary 610-737-6372
Great Swamp Farmer’s Day 12noon-5pm at Great Swamp Fish & Game, 2650 Schukraft Rd, Quakertown. Food, Beer, Hay Rides, Raffles, Meat Wheel & Chili Contest. FMI/ register for Contest: 215-536-8820
September 30
Keystone Quilters Meeting 7pm (open 6:30) at St. John’s Lutheran Activity Center, 26 1st Ave, Richlandtown. Guest Fee/$10. Program: My Quilting Journey by Andrea Hoke. Keystonequilters.org
October 3
Order Hoagies by today for pickup Oct 17 (1pm-3pm) Upper Bucks Activity Center. 12-inch hoagies, $7 each, must pay when ordering. FMI/order: Sara 215-536-3066 or stop in at the Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown
‘Biz & Brews’ 4:30pm-6:30pm Networking with a Cause. Cash bar, free apps & chances for 50/50 or raffle at The Proper Brewing Company, 117 W Broad St, Quakertown. Free for UBCC Members, $25/Future members. RSVP at 215-536-3211 or ubcc.org/events
October 4
Order Hoagies by today for pickup Oct 14 at Trumbauersville Fire Co. To order call Karen at 267-372-1404
Chronic Disease Classes by Bucks County Area Agency on Aging. 6-weeks starting Oct 4 on Fridays from 9am-11:30am. Call Senior Center 215-536-3066 for info & to sign up.
Upper Bucks Senior Center, 2183 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown
October 5
Fall Festival 11am-6pm at Zion Lutheran, 2966 Old Bethlehem Pike, Zion Hill. Public is welcome. Music, food, games, cake walk, craft show and Richland Township’s New Fire Truck. Profits go to help pay for it.
October 6
2024 ‘Celebration of Cars’ Benefit Car Show 9am-1pm at A&T Subaru, 801 Bethlehem Pike, Sellersville. Tickets/register online only by Oct 15. CarShowPro.com/event/1933. DJ, Food Truck. atautos.com or 215-257-8022
Bingo Fundraiser for Memorial Culinary Scholarship, open 12noon, games 1pm at Sellersville Moose, 301 W Park Ave. Tickets $35/adv, $40/door. Cash only, ATM available. UBCTS Food Truck here. No outside food.
October 9
Member of Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick's office will be at 10 S Third Street, Quakertown to answer questions about veterans' services, IRS, Social Security, etc. from 2:15pm-4pm
October 10
17th Annual Upper Bucks Foodie 5:30pm8pm at Sands Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, 501 N West End Blvd, Quakertown. $45/adv, $50/ door. Ticket info: 215-536-3211 or ubcc.org
October 11
‘Beef & Beverage’ for QCHS Cheer, 6:30pm-10:30pm at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry St, Quakertown. Tickets: $40/adv, $45/door. DJ, Door prizes, 50/50, Raffles. qchscheerpco@gmail.com
October 11 & 12
31st Haunted Hayride 7pm-10pm at Tylersport Fire Co, 125 Ridge Rd, Tylersport. Tickets/$10, Kids under 5 are free. Complimentary apple cider & marshmallows by the fire after your ride. FMI 215-257-5900. Event is also Oct 18 & 19.
Star Struck Quilt Show by Keystone Quilters 10-5 Friday, 10-4 Saturday. Held at Finland Mennonite, 1750 Ziegler Rd, Pennsburg. NACQJ judged show, Demonstrations, Vendor mall, Raffles, Refreshments, and more! Adm $10, 12 and under free. keystonequilters.org, 610-282-0651
October 12
Electronic Waste Recycling Event 9am12noon at Springfield Elementary School, 1950 Rt 212, Quakertown. All Bucks County residents are welcome. Questions? 610-346-6700 or springfieldbucks.org
and sponsors. Please thank them for their support.
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10 Tips for Downsizing Your Home
There’s no question that moving out of a home you’ve lived in for many years can be a stressful time. Between sorting through belongings, packing, scheduling movers, and setting up your new home, it might seem like a never-ending process that you just don’t want to think about. Add to that the fact that moving into a smaller space forces you to make decisions about what you’re taking with you, and you might just believe staying put is a better option.
However, downsizing offers a lot of benefits to seniors! For instance, perhaps the upkeep is becoming too difficult; doing yard work and cleaning the house have become tasks you dread. Maybe there’s a staircase to the bedrooms that has become too hard for you to climb, and you’re spending more nights sleeping on the sofa instead of your bed. Or, maybe there are simply just rooms you haven’t stepped foot in for a long timeyou have way more space than you need anymore.
Downsizing your home can certainly be a bittersweet moment, but many seniors find that moving into a senior living community has enhanced their lives in ways they never imagined. They are happier, healthier, more socially active, living maintenance-free and enjoying a higher quality of life all around.
When you’re ready to downsize your home, here are a few tips to keep in mind to make your moving day as painless as possible:
• Start early. If you think downsizing your home is in your future, it’s never too early to begin sorting through some of your belongings. Get into those closets and storage spaces and start weeding out items you no longer have a need for.
• Plan ahead. Have an idea of how big your new living space will be; if you can get a floor plan, all the better! Knowing how much space you’ll have will allow you to plan for how much furniture you can bring with you and how much storage space you’ll have for your belongings.
• Create lists. Lists help keep you organized! Make lists of things you need to do, such as shutting off utilities, transferring magazine subscriptions, etc. as well as lists of belongings you would like to keep, donate or sell.
• Ask for help. Enlist family members or close friends early on to help you move. Moving is not an easy process and you shouldn’t think you’ll be able to do it all yourself.
• Start making decisions. Sometimes, deciding what to keep and what needs to go can be the hardest part of moving. We attach memories to our belongings, and parting with them can be bittersweet. Keep in mind that not everything can come with you, so you may need to make some tough decisions.
• Give things away. Oftentimes, family members are happy to take some of your belongings into their own homes. As they are helping you pack and move, designate certain items to them or let them choose to take an item they may have been coveting for a while.
• Save the memories. You might not have room for all those old photo albums in your new home. Ask someone about digitizing them, or even pare them down into smaller scrapbooks of memories.
• Use up what you can. Waste not, want not, as the saying goes. Use up perishable items and paper products before your moving day. This way, you won’t have to pack and move these items with you.
Horsin’ Around, one of the Bucks County 4H equine clubs, had a very eventful, fun filled week at the Middletown Grange Fair. Several members received a number of acknowledgements for their work in the 4H Program. Members participated in the first ever Grange Fair Horse Bowl and Model Horse Show. Everyone had a wonderful time.
The Horse Bowl is a knowledge-based game where players race to the buzzer to provide the right answer to horse related questions. Members
• Clean as you go. As you’re packing, dust and vacuum the areas as you go. Cleaning little by little is a lot easier than attempting to clean the entire house right before your move.
• Create a “first day” box. Place items like toiletries, prescriptions, cleaning supplies, kitchen supplies, basic tools, etc. so you’ll have everything you might need ready to go your first night in your new home. Sue
Horsin' Around 4H Club Hoofs it Up at Middletown Grange Fair
were very competitive to gain points for their team. The ribbons and smiles show that hard work learning together pays off.
Members brought their beautiful plastic horses to the Model Horse Show where they showed that they really can tell one breed of horse from another with pride.
The club always has fun laughing and learning together. New members are always welcome.
Email horsinaroundbucks4h@gmail. com to learn more!
Scales N Tails 4H Club Wins Awards, Educates Others at Grange Fair
The Scales N Tails Bucks County 4H reptile club spent a week in August speaking to fair goers about their reptiles at the Middletown Grange Fair. Members brought their reptiles every day to share with everyone. All were so happy to share what they know about their pets, working together and smiling and laughing while talking to people about reptiles.
Members also held their club show at the fair, sharing with the judge all they knew about their reptiles and their care. The judge, Collette, had some challenging decisions to make to choose champions of the showmanship class and best in show
class. The overall ‘Master Showman’ was Grace D, the club’s graduating senior heading off to college. She made her fellow members proud with her wisdom in reptile handling, including her bearded dragons Spike and Loyla, and her leopard gecko Toni.
The ‘Reserved Showman’ was Emily D showcasing her bearded dragon Scout.
The club also celebrated their 2 outstanding Reptile project winners Lexi and Zev.
Members often find new adventures together. Contact Scalestailsbc4h@gmail. com for more information
Call for Fiction Contest Entries
Bucks County Community College has issued a call for entries for its short fiction contest for adults who live in Bucks County. The deadline for submissions is Thursday, October 10, 2024, at noon. The top three winners in the contest will receive gift cards of $200, $100, and $50, respectively, and will read from their work at a celebration on Saturday, November 9, at the College. We will be joined by writer C.J. Spataro, who will be the final judge. Adults aged 18 and older, who are
residents of Bucks County, may submit one story of up to 15 typewritten pages (double-spaced, Times New Roman, 12 point). Stories must be previously unpublished, including in online formats. For complete rules and to access the online submission system, please go to bucks. edu/short-fiction-contest.
For further information, contact the contest coordinator, Elizabeth Luciano, at Elizabeth.Luciano@bucks.edu.
This morning as I enjoyed my morning walk with my four legged friend, Brandi, the first school bus of the season drove past. A past article of mine outlined the simple first day of school that we experienced back in the day when we attended “A one room school house.” No backpacks full of markers, personal hygiene items, and a myriad of other required things, just our lunch bag for the day. We received a tablet, and a #2 pencil along with our brown book covers that we put on our books with our name on.
As I watched the mother deer with her spotted fawns grazing near the rock I used to feed my horse on, I thought of a special teacher I had that inspired me to write as I do. That teacher was Miss Stever (For all of you who attended QCHS back in the 50’s and 60’s.)
She was special in the fact that she not only Taught English; she inspired her students to want to learn. Aside from dangling participles and incorrect prepositional phrases that appeared in our English books; she
taught us a love of literature. I remember the famous oration of Macbeth spoken upon being told of his wife’s death, Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow word for word to this day. My love of history and my love of reading have given me hours of reading hundreds of books. Thank you Miss Stever!
As mentioned by me previously, many of the teachers that the class of ’61 had were products of GIs receiving their education from the GI bill after World War II, others such as Miss Stever went to Normal Schools to pursue their desire to educate “country kids” such as myself in the subjects they loved best. I look up to many of these GI teachers and teachers such as Miss Stever for what they did for me! My love of history (Mr. Strunk) and my enjoyment of putting down in words of my experiences in life (Miss Stever) are due to this inner feeling of sharing they had. I do not remember any of my teachers ever trying to impart to us students anything outside of the realm of the subject they were teaching.
Over the past few decades it is apparent that there is more than the assigned subjects being taught to our youth. Fortunately I see
a trend of parents becoming more involved in this matter and of what is contained in the textbooks. I wish to thank school board members and parents of today for refocusing on the true subjects being taught and the methods by which they are taught. May students such as myself some 60 years ago have the same grateful memories as I have for a particular teacher such as Miss Stever. Who was Miss Stever? I know nothing of her background before teaching here in Quakertown. I do know the “Mary” Stever was head of the English department composed of other teachers well known to students of our era, such as Mr. Heugel, Mr. Fischer, and Miss Potser. Many times the three Miss’ could be seen socializing together in town. (Miss Stever, Miss Potser, and Miss Treffinger.) Her fellow English teacher and friend Miss Potser also excelled in teaching English. I do not know how long she remained on staff at QCHS, but my hope is that it was for quite a few years after 1961.
She was quiet spoken, but strict as discipline. She was a firm believer of class participation with the use of calling on students to answer from the floor instead of just lecturing. She loved Shakespeare and I learned to enjoy his works and the meanings of his writings in an entirely different aspect over the years. Attending quite a few of his works at the local Shakespeare Festival at DeSales University with our friends Will and Marie Cressman were much more mean-
ingful because of Miss Mary Stever. She also taught me the basic principal of giving the facts on a subject as best you can, and ending up with the meaning of your main subject as it applies today.
So I end up with this to ponder. In the terrific changes that are taking place in this country, I feel that the old fashioned way of imparting knowledge to our youth is so important. It is the job of our “teachers” to not only teach the ABC’s of the subject but to instill in the student the desire to use that skill in their everyday life. Teachers such as Miss Stever and the other wonderful teachers that we students after World War II were fortunate to have “Stuck” to the subject at hand and gave the inspiration to use those skills to make this truly a better world. I wish it were possible to say personally “Thank You, Miss Stever!”
I hope you approve of this article as I have presented it. The “Tomorrow” oration ends in the negative but true statement, “and all our yesterdays have lighted fools the way to dusty death. Out, Out brief candle! Life is but a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage and then is heard no more. It is a tale told by an Idiot full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.” Not for Miss Stever, her life ended but her wonderful teachings still live! .
Ronald F. BaRndt, SR 89, of Sellersville passed away at Grand View Hospital in Sellersville, PA. He was the husband of Cecilia A. (Hinkle) Barndt. They were married 38 years last November. Born in Allentown he was the son of the late Orvis & Irma (Freed) Barndt. He worked 50 years at Grand View Hospital in the Maintenance Department before retiring.
He was life time member of the Great Swamp Rod & Gun Club. He also enjoyed gardening and yard work. He loved and enjoyed telling stories. Ronald enjoyed his children and grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sons Ronald, Jr., Richard (Paige), and Robert, daughters Elaine (Mike) Smith and Cindy (Edward) Dumberth. Stepsons Kevin, Bryan, and John McCarty, stepdaughter Karen (William) Jones. Along with ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Ronald was predeceased in death by his daughter Sonja (Robert) Lorenzo and Stepson Jeffrey McCarty and his previous wives Theda Hunsberger Barndt and Thelma Hunsberger Barndt.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society P. O. Box 30386 Philadelphia, PA 19103.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
EvElyn l. BoylES, 83, of Ottsville, PA died July 29, 2024 in Quakertown Center. She was the wife of Raymond L. Boyles. Born in Meadowbrook, NY she was the daughter of the late Karl & Harriette (Burke) Wolfram.
She was last employed as a cashier for A-Plus Mini Market in Quakertown. She was a dog lover and collected small miniature ceramic dogs. She was a big fan of the Philadelphia Eagles. She was a member of Flatland Church where she was a member of the Hospitality Group and the Women in Mission. In addition to her husband, she is survived by a brother John Wolfram and a sister Dorothy Mulrooney. She was predeceased by a brother Karl.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Church Building Fund or to Operation Christmas Child both in care of Flatland Church at the above address.
Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown.
douglaS “doug” aRthuR Calhoun SR , 89, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on August 4th, 2024, at Phoebe Richland Nursing Home. Born in Philadelphia, PA, Doug was the son of the late Eugene Calhoun and the late Helen (Myers) Calhoun. Doug is predeceased by his
wife, Lois, together they shared 46 years of marriage.
Doug graduated from Murrell Dobbins Vocational-Technical High School in 1953, and proudly joined the United States Army Reserves.
He was a strong believer and joyfully and faithfully served his brothers and sisters in Christ most recently at Calvary Chapel Quakertown. Doug embodied what he called “Jesus with skin on,” actively serving with the Life Safety Team ministry until this summer.
Doug will be dearly missed by his sons, Douglas (Eileen) Waterman and Robert E. Waterman Jr.; 7 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, along with extended family members and friends. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
SandRa ClinEFF, 74, of Quakertown, PA, passed away at home on Thursday, August 22, 2024. Born on June 13, 1950, in Milwaukee, WI, Sandra—fondly known as Sandy—was the beloved daughter of Theodore and Louise Behling. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gary Clineff, and her brother, Theodore Behling III.
Sandy’s remarkable 40+ year career at Reed Technology was a testament to her dedication and commitment.
An eager traveler, Sandy delighted in exploring new destinations. Her love of reading was only surpassed by her fascination with true crime shows, which she enjoyed with enthusiasm and a quick wit. Her vibrant sense of humor and kindness made each day brighter for those around her.
Sandy is survived by her daughter, Michelle Frei; her grandson, Atticus Frei; her son, Charles Wagner; daughter-inlaw, Sheri Wright-Wagner; and grandson, Troy Wright. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
doRiS J. FoSBEnnER, 88, of Quakertown, passed away on Monday, August 5, 2024, at Phoebe Richland, where she had resided for fifteen years.
Born on June 20, 1936, in Telford, she was a daughter of the late Norman and Emily (Schlectic) Gehman.
A graduate of Pennridge High School, Doris went on to join the workforce. Her employment history was eclectic: She worked at a cigar store, as a housekeeper at a hotel, and finally as a bus driver for Levy Bus Company, driving for the Quakertown School District.
She was a member of St. Peter’s Tohickon United Church of Christ.
In her later years, she found joy in the numerous activities offered at Phoebe—often the first one in attendance. She enjoyed bingo, arts and crafts, group exercise, and planned outings, to name a few. Her par-
ticipation in these activities demonstrated her determination to remain active, not letting her physical impairments slow her down.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of sixty-eight years: Kenneth Fosbenner, who died in 2018; and two sons: Michael Fosbenner, who died in 2014, and Brian Fosbenner, who died in 2021.
Doris will be lovingly remembered by one son: Dennis Fosbenner; her daughter: Karen Vivian and her husband Andrew; one daughter-in-law: Marianne Fosbenner; two sisters: Gladys Fisher and her husband Charles Kratz; Nancy Fuller and her husband Jerry; her brother: Donald Gehman and his wife Lucille; eight grandchildren: Parker, Nicholas (Hayley), and Noah Vivian; Samantha, Corey, and Kayla Fosbenner; and Tara and Michael Fosbenner; as well as several great-grandchildren.
Interment is in Tohickon Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Doris’s memory, to St. Peter’s Tohickon United Church of Christ, 1071 Old Bethlehem Road, Perkasie, PA 18944.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
Edwin John FRiCk, 70, of Sellersville, passed away on July 30, 2024. He was born in Sellersville on November 23, 1953, to the late Henry and Ruth (Schaffer) Frick. Edwin was the loving husband of Teresa (Mohr) Frick for nearly 42 years. Edwin was an extremely hard worker, and was a self-employed construction worker for most of his life. He was an avid football and baseball fan. Friends and family could always count on Edwin for help in whatever they needed.
Edwin is survived by his wife Teresa; step-son Garwood (Jennifer) Kramer; sister Donna (Scott) Frick-Miller; granddaughter Shelby (Zac) Zomberg; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents; daughter Jamie Standish; son-in-law Michael Standish; and siblings Karen Frick and Thomas Frick.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
BEtty J. gilman, age 92, of Quakertown PA (formerly of Hatfield PA), passed away on August 5, 2024 at LifeQuest Nursing Center in Quakertown, PA. Betty was born April 29, 1932, the daughter of the late Clarence and Emma (Hendricks) Freese of Lansdale PA. Betty was the wife of Theodore "Ted" C. Gilman, with whom she shared 37 years of marriage before his passing in 1997.
Betty is preceded in death by her first husband, Paul H. Peterman (1959), and also her brothers Henry Freese (Esther), Earl "Bob" Freese, Sr. (Rose), and Lloyd Freese.
Betty is survived and will be dearly missed by her Children and loved ones: Son, David K. Peterman, Daughter, Rita Riley (Patrick), Son, Timothy Peterman (Patti), and Daughter, Darcy Walter (Dave). Her nine Grandchildren and her six Great Grandchildren
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
niCholaS o gRant, 89, of Glenshaw, PA formerly of Quakertown died July 30, 2024 in AHN Wexford Hospital, Wexford, PA. He was the husband of Gloria K. (Novak) Grant. They were married 64 years in February.
Born in Manhattan, New York he was the son of the late Gordon A. & Elizabeth (Oglesby) Grant.
He was in the maintenance department of the former Moore Business Forms in Quakertown before retiring. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus in York and Quakertown.
For several years following retirement he volunteered for Habitat for Humanity. Nicholas was a U.S. Marine Corp Veteran serving during the Korean War and a member of the Quakertown American Legion Post 245.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters Michelle S. McKnight (Donald) of Pittsburgh. Kelly M. Talton of Elkins Park, PA, and Jennifer A. Eckert (Dr. Daniel) of York, PA; a brother Gordon A. Grant; 11 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Habitat for Humanity 539 Jacksonville Road Warminster, PA 18974.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
CaRol annE gumBERt, 72, of Quakertown, passed away on Monday, August 19, 2024, surrounded by family in her son’s home in Telford. Born on May 21, 1952, in Allentown, she was a daughter of the late William and Betty (Rothmund) Crouthumel.
A graduate of Quakertown High School’s Class of 1970, Carol went on to enter the workforce. She spent many years as a fabricator with Porter Instruments in Hatfield. Carol was also a licensed cosmetologist, reserving her talents for family. Outside of work, Carol found joy in collecting antiques, reading, and spending time at the lake.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her step-father: Joseph Priestas.
Carol will be lovingly remembered by her daughter: Jamie Fox (Kenny); son: Brian Holt; brother: Kenneth Crouthumel (Victoria); sister: Susan Goodwin (Robert); three grandchildren: Brayden and Samantha Fox and Joseph Tyler Holt; as well as nieces and nephews.
Interment is in St. John’s Cemetery, Spinnerstown, PA.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Carol’s name to Flying Fur Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 1, Kintnersville, PA 18930 or online at www.flyingfur.org.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
ElainE FRanCES (PEtERS) haaS, 85, of Center Valley, passed away on August 21, 2024. She was born in Allentown on October 12, 1938 to the late Earl and Mary (Brichta) Peters. Elaine was the loving wife of Gerald Haas for 61 years. She worked at Western Electric in Allentown, Lehigh Aircraft in Allentown, and did physical therapy in the Quakertown area.
Elaine loved to breed and raise dogs, rode horseback, and was a secretary for the Boots & Saddles Riding Club.
Elaine is survived by her husband; children Christine (Craig) Thatcher, Timothy (Theresa) Haas, and Kara Haas; grandchildren Travis (Alicia), Nathan, and Alyssa; great granddaughter Maeve; sisters Rosemary (Charles) Forsythe and Earlene (Keith) Markovitch; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents and sisters Joan, Kathy, and Frances.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
~Obituaries~
william RoSS CoRnEliuS hERStinE was born on Nov 24, 1945 to parents Leroy Sr and Ella Herstine in Doylestown, PA. William grew up on his family’s farm with three older siblings in Bedminster, PA. William was a life-long resident of Bucks County.
William graduated from Pennridge High School in 1963.
William passed away peacefully on Aug 10, 2024 at his beloved homestead in Bedminster, PA. He was 78 years old. William will be deeply missed by his family, friends and coworkers.
William is survived by his third wife, Heping, and his daughters Christina, Diane and Laura, 2 granddaughtersMarnie and Danica, and step-son, Peng. William has three siblings: a brother (who preceded him in death), and two sisters, Lorraine (who survives him) and Elizabeth (who preceded him in death). William is also survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Edna may hillEgaS, 96, of Milford Township, passed away on Friday, August 16, 2024, at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Bethlehem.
Born on March 30, 1928, in Milford Township, she was a daughter of the late Wilmer R. and Myrtle (Shelly) Bauman. Following her formal education, Edna embraced her role as a homemaker, raising five children.
In her spare time, she volunteered with the Milford Township Fire Department’s Ladies Auxiliary, for which she was previously President. Additionally, she served on the Hospitality and Women in Mission committees at Flatland Church, where she was a long-time member. She also found joy in cooking and completing word search puzzles.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of fifty-seven years: Joseph Hillegas, who died in 2005; one son: Alan Hillegas, who died in 2004; four brothers: Harold, Warren, Clair, and Richard Bauman; and four sisters: Beatrice Hillegas, Gladys Moore, Mary Bittenbender, and Ella Barndt.
Edna will be lovingly remembered by her son: James Hillegas; daughters: Dora Hillegas, Peggy Gerhart and her husband Robert, and Gail Harr and her husband Bill; five grandchildren: Chris, Eric, Joel, Jason, and Kelly; and nine great-grandchildren: Kayla, Hailey, Jane, Abby, Danielle, Addyson, Jonas, Colby, and Cooper; as well as several nieces and nephews.
Interment is in Quakertown Union Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Flatland Church, 180 West Thatcher Road, Quakertown, PA 18951 or Milford Township Volunteer Fire Co., 2185 Milford Square Pike, Quakertown, PA 18951.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
gEoRgE mERvin huEy, 78, of Zionsville, PA. unexpectedly passed away on July 24, 2024, at Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg, VA. Born in Upland, PA. George was the son of the late Robert Edward Huey and the late Mildred Arlene (Kissel) Huey.
George enjoyed working on and restoring cars, remodeling houses, and gardening with his wife.
George will be dearly missed by his wife, Ellen Huey, together they shared 57 years of marriage; his children and grandchildren, Annette and Mark D’Amelio and their child Vanessa and spouse Kyle Rubin, George Huey Jr., and Jeffrey Huey and his daughter Autumn Huey; his sister-in-law Rosemarie Huey; his brother, William and Bonnie Huey; along with
his extended family members and friends. George is predeceased in death by his brother, C.Robert Huey.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
EaRl linColn kESSlER, 89, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on August 2, 2024, surrounded by his family. Earl was born December 22, 1934 in Abington, PA. Earl graduated from Frankford High School in Philadelphia, PA, then went on to the Philadelphia Wireless Institute. Earl served in the United States Army from 1957-1959.
Earl married the love of his life, Phyllis (Boyd) Kessler, on December 18, 1954 in Philadelphia. Phyllis and Earl were happily married for nearly 70 years. Together they had four children, 8 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren.
Remaining to cherish Earl's memory are his wife, Phyllis, his children, Susan, Patricia (William), Richard (Denise), sonin-law, Charles, his grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and his brother Robert (Anne). Earl was preceded in death by his daughter, Barbara, his parents, Ada and Earl Sr., and his mother and father in-law Ellen and Albert.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
kathRynE m landES, 83, of Sellersville died July 29, 2024 in her home. She was the wife of Ronald L. Landes.
Born in Philadelphia she was the daughter of the late John G. & Kathryne (Brewer) Merry.
She was a waitress of various restaurants and diners in the area.
She was a self-employed dog breeder breeding Labrador Retrievers. She also enjoyed gardening.
In addition to her husband she is survived by three sons Louis Lippolis, Scott Slater (Linda) and Justin Landes; a brother John and a sister Helen. She is also survived by several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Services will be private. 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 Bucks County SPCA 60 Reservoir Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951.
JamES m llEwEllyn, 60, of Spinnerstown, passed away on Monday, August 5, 2024, at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Bethlehem.
Born on July 4, 1964, in Philadelphia, he was a son of Adam Lybacki and the late Joann Lybacki.
A graduate of Quakertown High School, James went on to enter the workforce. He worked for several years as a butcher with Clemens and Ginardi’s grocery stores. Outside of work, he enjoyed watching Sunday night football, loved Philadelphia Eagles games, and listening to music. Above all, though, family was his priority. He is preceded in death by his mother, with whom he wanted to join again.
James will be lovingly remembered by his two sons: Joshua Berry, and his fiancé Victoria, and Tyler Llewellyn, and his girlfriend Holly; his brother: John Llewellyn; and his granddaughter: Maelia Berry.
A memorial service will be held at one of James’s favorite places—the beach—at a later date.
Arrangements are under the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
ClaREnCE S. maRquaRdt, 94, of Sellersville formerly of Easton and Upper Black Eddy died July 29, 2024 in the Community at Rockhill, Sellersville. He was the husband of Lorraine C. (Buskirk) Marquardt. They were married 64 years last May.
Born in Andover, NJ he was the son of the late Clarence S. & Laura (Cartwright) Marquardt.
He retired after 39 years of service at Princeton University in the Research Department.
He was collector and had a large collection of old movies and music C/D’s. He enjoyed listening to country music.
Clarence was a former Boy Scout Leader. He was a U.S. Army Veteran of the Korean War.
He was a member of Epworth United Methodist Church in Bethlehem.
In addition to his wife Lorraine, he is survived by a daughter Noreen Conrad (Martin) of Perkasie; a sister Shirley. He was predeceased by a son Stephen F. Marquardt and a sister Betty.
Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown.
tRuong van nguyEn, 88, of Quakertown, passed away on Monday, August 12, 2024, at his home. He was the loving husband of the late Tuyen Thi Nguyen who passed in March. They were married for 64 years.
Truong was born on August 7, 1936, in Vietnam.
Surviving are his children: Huyen, Tan, Ha, Hue, Hoa, and Huong. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
John J. o'donnEll, 77, of Hatfield, passed away on August 3, 2024. He was born in Philadelphia on August 13, 1946, to the late Marie (Raschke) O'Donnell and John J. O'Donnell Jr. John was the loving husband of Judith (Overly) O'Donnell for 38 years.
Jack, as he was known to his family and friends, served honorably in the U.S. Air Force, including a tour in Vietnam, from 1965-1969. Jack had a lengthy stint with IBM and finished his career working for the Commonwealth of PA.
John is survived by his wife Judith; children Elizabeth (Patrick) Brown, David Harris, and Heather O'Donnell; grandchildren Megan (Joshua) Aiken and Erin Harris; great grandchildren Leah and Lucas; brother Frank O'Donnell; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents; son John J. O'Donnell IV; and siblings Michael O' Donnell and Candice O'Donnell.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
Randy Paul PFoRtER, age 65, of Red Hill, Pennsylvania, passed away on July 24, 2024, at his home in Red Hill, PA after a courageous 9-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
He was the spouse of Patty Pforter, with whom he shared 38 years of marriage. Born in Syracuse, NY he was the son of Warren Pforter and Ethel Levine Pforter of Audubon PA.
Randy graduated from Ursinus College in 1987 with an associate’s degree in business management.
He retired in 2015 from Rosenberger's Dairy. He was a volunteer firefighter for over 30 years at Lower Providence Fire Company and Colmar Fire Company. He was an avid gardener.
In addition to his wife Patty, he is survived by his daughter Katelynne Kinney,
son-in-law Dave Kinney, his most precious granddaughter Julianne Kinney; son, Christopher Pforter, daughter-inlaw, Rebecca Pforter.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
E. aRlEnE REFSnidER passed away on August 8, 2024. She was 99 years old. She was born in Richlandtown, PA, where she lived the first 89 years of her life. Arlene was predeceased by R. Leon, her beloved husband of 65 years. She was the daughter of the late Aden F. and Lillie M. Heavener.
Arlene worked at Associated Rubber, Inc., in Quakertown for many years. She was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church and was a frequent volunteer for the Church. Arlene also did a great deal of volunteer work for the Richlandtown Fire Department.
She is survived by her son, Ronald, and his wife, Maureen; two grandchildren, Jeanine Refsnider-Streby (and her husband Henry Streby), and Kurt; granddaughter Sora Streby; and nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by sister Lynette, brother Paul, and several sisters- and brothers-in-law.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
william “Bill” a. REnnER, SR., 86, of Sellersville PA, passed away on August 6, 2024.
Born on October 27, 1937, in Applebachsville, PA, he was the son of
the late John Harvey Renner, Sr. and the late Mabel (Shoffner) Renner. Bill enjoyed the outdoors and could often be found working on his old Chevy truck. He is survived by his former wife, Dorothy Renner; his daughters Debra (Walter) Rex, Karen (Kenny) Peacock, Daine (Scott) Daneker, and Darlene (Ted) Hoffmayer; his son William Renner, Jr.; his sister Sharon Niles; and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, sister, grandson, and brother-in-law.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
guStavE "guS" SChEERBaum JR , of Pleasant Valley, Springfield Township, passed away August 13, 2024. Born on September 23, 1939, to Margaret (Hartman) and Gustave Scheerbaum in Philadelphia.
Fortunate to find a deep love later in life, he was a devoted husband to Nancy (Hottle) for the last 9 years.
Gus was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Pleasant Valley, a member of Masonic Lodge #512, Quakertown, and member of the Springfield Township Historical Society.
He is survived by his children: daughter Stacy, (Brian Kress); son Gustave, (Kevin Broad); and daughter Joanna, (David LaFaver). He was also a loving stepfather to Debbie, (Kenneth Keller); Betsy, (Jim Nilsen); and Bonnie, (Tim Wright). Brother, George (Patricia), sister, Louise (William DiMascio), and brother, Harry (Susan). He is predeceased by his brother Louis Scheerbaum.
Gus's legacy continues through his grandchildren, who brought him immense joy. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
hEathER mERiah SlagEl, 42, of Emmaus, passed away at home surrounded by her loving family after losing her battles with breast cancer. She was born in Abington on April 12, 1982 to Lyne (Graham) Slagel and the late Joseph Slagel Sr. Heather was an extremely, loyal, fierce, caring, and loving person. Music was huge in her life. She was a big supporter of the Philly hip-hop scene and loved all genres of music. She was always attending concerts with her mom, brother, and many friends. She enjoyed fishing with her bonus dad Scott.
Heather is survived by her mother Lyne Miller; brother Joseph Slagel Jr.; step-father Scott Miller; grandparents Edwin and Joyce Graham; Uncles David Graham and Edwin Graham Jr.; and so many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her father; and her beloved feline companion Bogie.
Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
kEnnEth “kEn” EdgaR lEwiS StEPhEnS JR., 61, of Quakertown, PA, passed away on August 20th, 2024, at his home. Born in Allentown, PA, Ken was the son of Dolores Dee (Wasilousky) Beacham and the late Kenneth Edgar Lewis Stephens Sr. Ken attended Upper Perkiomen High School. After High School, Ken began working at Bergy Tire in Perkasie and enjoyed it so much he remained there for 35 years. His passion for life extended well beyond his professional endeavors, in his free time, Ken enjoyed classic cars and classic rock. He always had a special place in his heart for his 1973 GTO
In addition to his mother, Dolores, Ken will be dearly missed by his children, Ken the 3rd and Billie Jean; his brothers Darian and Sheldon; his nephew, Devon; his stepfather, Douglas Beacham; along with extended family and friends. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).
, 90, formerly of Plumsteadville died July 25, 2024 in Saucon Valley Manor, Hellertown, PA. She was the wife of the late Donald Gerald Born in Gardenville, PA she was the daughter of the late Edmund & Elizabeth She was a bookkeeper for various compa-
Marion enjoyed bird watching, gardening and flowers especially daffodils. She is survived by two daughters Mary Ellen Schade of Richlandtown and Barbara Poust of Homosassa, Florida. Four grandchildren Mark Sokol, Mandy Sokol, Jonathan Poust, and Anthony Poust; four great grandchildren Connor, Robert, Amelia, and Austin. She was predeceased by two brothers Herbert Smith, Chester Smith, and a sister Gladys Rush. 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).
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Alzheimer’s Association 399 Market St. Suite 102 Philadelphia, PA 19106 or to Family Pillars Hospice 3910 Adler Place Bethlehem, PA 18017.
Sally angStadt tutuRiCE, 70, of Quakertown died July 28, 2024 in Valley Manor Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Coopersburg. She was the wife of the late Frank Tuturice.
Born in Allentown, PA she was the daughter of the late Linford & Mary (Schwenk) Angstadt.
She was last employed by AGP Plastics in Trumbauersville, prior to that she worked for Cassels Greenhouse in Dublin.
She enjoyed all art especially painting and also enjoyed playing lottery tickets. She is survived by two sons Charles Wrecsics of Richlandtown, & Jason Wrecsics of Quakertown; two sisters Betty Croissette of Green Lane, Donna Angstadt of Spinnerstown; and three grandchildren Kyle, Kyra, & Logan. Sally was predeceased by two brothers Richard & Barry, and two sisters Barbara Kolb & Mary Hagenbuch.
Per her wishes there will be no services. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown.
SuSan (SuE) JanEt FREy waRd, 49, died August 11, 2024, in San Diego, CA. Born in Sellersville, PA, on April 18, 1975, she was the wife of Thomas Ward, and the daughter of Janet and Ken Frey of Milford Square, PA.
Sue was a preemie, weighing less than 2 lbs at birth. As a result, she was visually impaired. But that never stopped her from having a life of joy and adventure. During her school life, she was a member of chorus, was enrolled in horticulture courses, and also participated in sports such as skiing, gymnastics, bowling, as well as track and field with Special Olympics.
She graduated from Quakertown Community High School and Northampton Community College. In addition to her school experiences, she took dance, drum instruction and computer courses. As a techie, she discovered the internet and met people from around the world. She met her future husband Tom as a result of a Jimi Hendrix discussion at hippie. com. Their friendship blossomed and they married on August 23, 2003.
In May 2021, Sue was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer and began a 3-year battle with the disease. She was determined to keep living her life, and in August 2023, she and Tom fulfilled a lifelong dream as they visited the Woodstock site and museum. She lost her battle, but never gave up smiling and finding joy and courage every day.
Her family wishes to thank all the doctors, nurses, caregivers, family and friends for all their support and encouragement.
A Celebration of Life will be held on September 21, 2024, at the First United Church of Christ, 151 S. Fourth St., Quakertown, PA 18951. A calling hour will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with a service to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the First UCC Mission Trip, or a charity of your choice.
*Annual Percentage Rate (APR) accurate as of 9/1/24 and is subject to change without notice. Applications are subject to credit approval. The monthly payment per
Powdery Mildew or Downy Mildew?
These two diseases have similar signs and symptoms but are very different. Downy Mildew Organisms and their relatives in the genera Phytophthora and Pythium and others in the Oomycota are now NOT believed to be closely related to true fungi.
Downy Mildew (a specialized obligate parasite, not a fungi) colonies first appear on the underside of the leaves. A whitish-bluish fluffy growth first appears, then small yellow dots develop on the upper sides of the leaves. As the yellow spot darkens to gray infected leaves may become distorted and die. Downy
Mildew favors cool temperatures (58-72° F) and high relative humidity above 85%. While some Downy Mildews survive from year to year locally in plant debris, in the soil, or on weeds, others do not survive in our cold winters. The organisms blow to our region from the south. Plants affected by Downy Mildew include many ornamentals (roses, pansies and impatiens) and members of the curcurbit family (cucumber, squash and pumpkin). Avoid watering foliage especially at night. Remove infected leaves and plant debris and dispose of in the trash. DO NO COMPOST. If left unchecked the infection will continue to spread eventually kill the plant.
Powdery Mildew is caused by several types of fungi, (Golovinomyces cichoracearum formerly Erysiphe cichoracearum) which attack a wide range of plants. It first appears as white spots on the upper sides of leaves. Powdery Mildew favors high relative humidity at night and low relative humidity during the day. High humidity favors spore formation while low humidity favors spore dispersal. Susceptible plants include Beebalm (Monarda), Zinnias (Zinnia spp.) and Peonies among many others. Powdery Mildew is unsightly but generally does not kill the plant. Give plants plenty of room for air circulation. A fungicide labeled for specific plant use can be applied. Plants infected with Powdery Mildew can be composted because fungi only survive on living tissue.
September is a good time to plant Spring bulbs such as Snow Drops, Tulips, Daffodils, Hyacinths, Frittilaria, and Alliums, Crocus (corms) or Anemone(tubers). Add some spring color to your garden. Many garden centers and home improvement stores will be featuring spring bloomers. Or, there are many online and catalog choices not always available in stores. Choose some early, mid-spring and late-spring blooms for the best display.
Don’t Guess, Soil Test. Test your soil for spring planting now. It will give you ample time to apply needed amendments before planting time. Soil Tests are available at the Bucks County office for $10.00, or you can download the application, follow the directions for sampling and packaging and mail to Penn State with your check or money order for $10.00. Complete instructions are on the form. tinyurl.com/y9fl38go
Master Watershed Stewards (MWS)
Native Plant Plug Sale extended to September 4th. This is an opportunity to support the MWS Program and add some valuable native plants to your garden. Plugs are plant seedlings with good root growth. They come from a top-quality native Plant Nursery in Bucks County. Planted this fall they will be ready to attract pollinators in the spring. For a list of plugs available and details go to this link: tinyurl.com/282lhkg4
Photo: ComParison of downy mildew and Powdery mildew on squash david B. langston university of georgia, Bugwood org Resources:
Downy Mildew: tinyurl.com/28gygydd
Powdery Mildew: tinyurl.com/2devyuzp
Our home gardening hotline is open! Emails are answered by our trained Master Gardeners and Master Watershed Stewards remotely from 9 am to 4 pm Monday thru Friday (closed noon - 1pm).
For fastest service use email. You can still call if you prefer. Leave a message and we will return your call.
Ask a Master Gardener
Penn State Extension Bucks County BucksMG@psu.edu • 267-483-2020 1576 Penns Park Road, Newtown, PA 18940
Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!
My Next Book
I’ve decided to start writing my next book, “Why I love being a househusband (or, will this freaking dog ever stop shedding?)”. Fritz must truly love discarding his hair in every quarter inch of the house, in every room, on every step, and on every single non-moving item we own. Other than that, why would he constantly do it?
It’s not because it’s summer which would sort of make sense. He’s a full four-season shedder!
Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall…
Supposing I could trade him in for a smaller, less hairy version that doesn’t shed, whine, or pant incessantly… (He knows what I’m talking about because he’s looking at me right now with those sad, blind eyes.)
I would like to slip in a househusband pet care tip here: If your spouse spills a massive amount of water on the floor when filling the dog water dish, and like an overflowing Lake Pontchartrain, it flows from the sink to where the dish goes, and then said spouse waits for it to simply evaporate, it won’t…but, that’s the perfect time to mop the kitchen.
Back to shedding…I recall that Labor Day many years ago, when under marital duress, I agreed to drive to a rescue in the Poconos to look at an Australian Shepherd/Chow mix that needed a home.
To clarify, it was a BLIND Australian Shepherd/Chow mix that needed a home.
(Because two full time career people needed a home with a pet requiring a lot of attention and care. Never mind that this same said dog suffers from severe separation anxiety, and we like to go out quite a bit, and frequently away for the weekend.)
I do recall complaining all the way up there and almost received the agreement to turn around and go back home about halfway there, but we did drive pretty far at that point, and I was quite clear that we were not coming home with a dog of any type. Blind, or with 20/20 vision, or whatever number dogs have. As adamant as a husband can be…
A few hours later, we were happily driving home with our new, terrified and shaking emaciated family member in the back seat, along with the first of many dog purchases of dog food bags, dog food cans, and dog medications.
Eventually we made it home, and Shelli took our soon to be named Fritz addition inside.
I, on the other hand, grabbed the portable hand vacuum, headed to the back seat of the car, to begin my first of many shedded hair cleanups.
In retrospect, it was good training for my retirement house duties… john SchaningeR iS a lifelong ReSiDent of pennSylvania anD
Enroll Now for Fall Classes!
Celebrating 45 Years of Award Winning Dance Training!
Sellersville Fire Company Secures Assistance to Firefighters Grant
Sellersville Fire Department is excited to announce that it has been awarded an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) to replace its outdated Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) equipment. This vital funding will enhance the safety and effectiveness of our firefighting personnel, ensuring they are equipped with the latest technology to protect both themselves and the community they serve.
The AFG, provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), amounts to $163,666.66 and will be used to purchase cutting-edge SCBA units. These advanced systems are essential for firefighters to safely operate in hazardous environments and perform their critical duties during emergencies.
“Receiving this grant is a tremendous
boost for our department,” said Kurt Wagner, Fire Chief of Sellersville Fire Department. “Our current SCBA equipment, which has served us well over the years, is reaching the end of its operational life. This grant allows us to replace it with modern, reliable technology that will ensure our firefighters have the best protection available. We are immensely grateful to FEMA for their support.”
The new SCBA units will feature enhanced air supply systems, improved durability, and better overall comfort, which will directly contribute to the safety and efficiency of our operations. These upgrades are crucial for maintaining the highest standards of safety and performance in the field.
Youth Sports Emergency Action Plans Ensuring Safety in Critical Moments
National news is reporting that at least three student athlete football players have died on the field in the past month due to an unknown condition or catastrophic injury.
Youth sports offer countless benefits, from physical fitness to the development of teamwork and leadership skills. However, the dynamic nature of sports also presents the risk of emergencies, such as sudden injuries, exacerbation of pre-existing known or unknown medical conditions or environmental hazards. In these critical moments, having a well-prepared and practiced Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is essential to ensure the safety and wellbeing of young athletes.
“The National Athletic Trainer’s Association recently published a position statement on emergency action plan development and implementation in sport, updating current best practices from an original publication in 2002,” noted Brian Wiese, St. Luke’s Sports Medicine program manager.
St. Luke’s Sports Medicine is the largest provider of sports medicine services throughout northeastern Pennsylvania, offering the most comprehensive and advanced treatment for athletic injuries. Caring for thousands of student athletes at dozens of schools throughout the region, St. Luke’s Sports Medicine is the official medical provider of the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) State Championships, the official sports medicine provider for District XI, the official sports medicine provider for the Lehigh Valley Youth Phantoms and a partner of the National Football Foundation (NFF).
“Emergency action planning often falls on the shoulders of an athletic trainer,” Wiese said. “However, to gain widespread utilization and implementation, we must start to get acceptance, engagement and adoption from organizational leadership. We need all stakeholders to become vested and involved for there to be true success with implementation.”
An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is a detailed, systematic protocol designed to guide coaches, staff and volunteers in responding effectively to emergencies. Whether it’s a serious injury, a medical condition like an asthma attack or an environmental threat such as extreme weather, an EAP outlines the steps to be taken to provide immediate care, manage the situation, and ensure the safety of all participants.
Communication Protocols
Effective communication is vital in an emergency. An EAP should include a communication plan that details how to contact emergency services, inform parents, and coordinate with facility staff or event organizers. It’s important to have a list of emergency contact numbers readily available and to ensure that all staff members know how to use any communication devices, such as radios or phones, in case of an emergency.
The EAP should also outline how to communicate with the athletes themselves, providing reassurance and instructions while keeping them calm and safe. In the case of a large-scale emergency, such as a natural disaster, communication protocols should extend to coordinating with local authorities.
Emergency Equipment and Supplies
Having the right equipment on hand can make all the difference in an emergency. An EAP should specify the location and contents of first aid kits, automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and any sport-specific safety gear, such as splints or ice packs. Coaches and staff should be trained in the use of this equipment, and it should be regularly checked to ensure it is in good working order.
An EAP is only effective if it is practiced regularly and reviewed frequently. Coaches, staff and volunteers should participate in drills that simulate different emergency scenarios, allowing them to become familiar with their roles and the procedures. Regular reviews of the EAP ensure that it remains up to date with any changes in personnel, facilities, or equipment.
“Developing and implementing emergency action plans have no cost barriers, it just requires the time, attention, and a little hard work from a collaborative group of stakeholders,” says Wiese. “We often hear about money and budgets being a limiting factor to purchasing or implementing an initiative to better prepare for the worst-case scenario, but this is simply not the case with emergency action planning.
EAPs are not one-size-fits-all; they must be tailored to the specific needs of the sport, the age and ability levels of the athletes, the facilities being used, and the potential risks associated with the activity. An effective EAP is comprehensive, regularly updated and practiced by all relevant personnel.
Key components of an EAP include: Clear Roles and Responsibilities
An effective EAP clearly defines the roles and responsibilities of all individuals involved. This includes coaches, assistant coaches, medical personnel (if available), and even parents. Each person should know their specific duties during an emergency. For example, one person might be responsible for administering first aid, another for calling emergency services and another for guiding emergency responders to the site.
Having predefined roles ensures that everyone knows what to do, reducing confusion and enabling a swift response. In situations where trained medical personnel are not available, coaches and volunteers should be trained in basic first aid and CPR, ensuring they can provide immediate care until professional help arrives.
Youth sports emergency action plans are critical for ensuring the safety and well-being of young athletes. By clearly defining roles, establishing communication protocols, ensuring the availability of emergency equipment, and accounting for venue-specific considerations, an EAP provides a structured and effective response to emergencies. Regular practice and review of the EAP are essential to ensure that all involved are prepared to act swiftly and confidently in critical situations. By prioritizing safety through comprehensive EAPs, we can protect our young athletes and allow them to enjoy the benefits of sports with peace of mind.
HEALING BEGINS
With You Every Step of the Way
When it comes to choosing cancer care, choose the team you can trust. The best team of experts with complete services and the finest facilities. At St. Luke’s, we deliver world class cancer care with personalized treatment plans. From superior radiation therapy and state of the art infusion technology to groundbreaking clinical trials. We give you hope with unparalleled compassion and support. Right here. All in one location.
• Accredited Cancer Center
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The answers to the puzzles on this page are found elsewhere in this issue.
Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.
“The things that come to those that wait may be the things left by those that got there first.” - Steven Tyler
Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.
I am Supposed to be Inheriting Money from a Family Member’s Estate, But the Executor is Taking Forever to Distribute the Money. What Should I Do?
BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ.
This is a very common situation that many beneficiaries find themselves in –they have a family member pass away, are informed that they are named as a beneficiary in the Will and then they do not hear anything else for months, or even years in some cases. And often times, the person in charge of handling the administration of the Estate (the Estate Personal Representative) is in no particular hurry to respond to inquiries from beneficiaries. In order to better understand how to approach this issue, I think it is important to understand the general timelines surrounding the administration of a typical estate.
Once an Estate is opened (this can only be done after a death certificate is issued) and a Personal Representative is appointed by the Register of Wills, there are a number timelines that Pennsylvania law imposes:
• Within 3 months of opening the Estate, the Personal Representative must send out standardized beneficiary notices to everyone named in the Will (if there is a Will), or if there is no Will (or the original cannot be located) everyone potentially entitled to money under the Pennsylvania intestacy statute. This notice should indicate what the beneficiary may be entitled to under the Will or intestacy statute and if there is a Will, a copy of it should be attached to the notice.
• Within 3 months of opening the Estate, the Personal Representative should advertise the opening of the estate in the county law reporter and a newspaper of general circulation for 3 consecutive weeks. This informs potential creditors of the person who just passed away of the estate’s existence, the identity of the Personal Representative and their attorney (if any) and gives the creditors one year from the date of the final advertisement to file a claim against the estate for any debts owed.
• Within 9 months of the date of death, the Personal Representative must file PA inheritance tax return and inventory. After the inheritance tax return is filed, it typically takes the Department of Revenue about 3-4 months to process the return.
Keeping these basic timelines in mind, it is a fair assumption to say that most estates will not be completed for at least 12-18 months after the date of death. If you have not received your due inheritance at this point nor have you received a ton of information, that may be because not enough time has lapsed to warrant the finalizing of the estate. But if the estate has been opened for two or more years, and you still have not received your inheritance – that may warrant you to take some action. The first step I would recommend is to reach out to the Personal Representative and see if they can provide any additional info. If the Personal Representative is not responding to your communications, or you feel as if they are brushing you off, it may be time to hire an estate attorney. An experienced estate attorney will be able to pull the filed documents from the court records and potentially extract some useful information as to what the holdup is. They should also reach out to the Personal Representative’s attorney at this point, if there is one on record.
If those efforts fail, an experienced estate/probate attorney can file a Petition for Citation to force the Personal Representative to submit a formal accounting of the Estate to the Court for review by a judge, who will hear any objections to the accounting at trial and subsequently issue an Order directing the payout of estate assets. Some situations may also warrant the filing of a Petition to Remove the Personal Representative. It is worth noting that not all estate attorneys handle the litigation side of estates, so if you find yourself in this situation make sure you ask any attorney you are considering hiring whether or not they have experience litigating these issues. .
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, civil ligitation, anD buSineSS law to Set up a conSultation, call hiS office at (267) 227-9138 oR viSit hiS webSite at www fRavel-law coM
How Will the Economy React to AI?
Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are already invading every aspect of our lives. Debates are ongoing about how it will infiltrate individual industries. Governments are working to understand AI and determine how to regulate something that affects much more than the digital space. Its potential uses are being realized everywhere, from musicians turning 50-year-old demo recordings into fully realized hit singles to firms analyzing data to increase productivity, maximize security, and even develop new medicines. The potential for AI is a fast-moving beast, with new tools emerging so quickly that they sometimes make existing ones obsolete just months after they become available.
It has certainly made many people nervous. An online educator surveyed 800 executives about their futures with AI. Almost half of the respondents believed that many of the job skills vital to the employees of various industries, including C-suite executives, may be irrelevant in just two years.1,2
This is some scary talk, to be certain. However, it is important to note that such change is inevitable. Just as the telephone put the telegraph out to pasture and the commercialization of the Internet changed how every company does business, AI will change things. However, not all aspects of the change will be bad or negative.
For those in the workforce, AI represents this generation’s pivot point. Just as prior
generations got used to offices centered around emails and messaging tools, so will this generation of workers get used to the many AI tools that will help them work better and more efficiently. Jobs at all levels will change to incorporate emerging innovations. Executives will have access to resources that simplify their tasks and expand their abilities.
AI promises to help make a massive leap forward in terms of what people can accomplish, and its tools can help people do tasks more precisely and at previously impossible speeds. This sort of innovation always has growing pains. However, in the long run, it represents incredible potential for the economy to grow in new directions, uplifting the industries that every company changes and opening avenues that never existed before. Although AI challenges the economy, investors have faced this challenge during every innovative period. As your trained financial professional, I will consider big and small changes, and I look forward to hearing any questions you may have about the future of AI.
1. forBes com, octoBer 14, 2023
2. edX ai survey, 2023.
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 content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.
Wow here it is September already!
School buses are buzzing down the roads and leaves are falling from the trees. I should have told you guys about this earlier but check out the picture here. This is my friend Enzo floating in our pool in a special made container. I can’t take credit for creating it. I saw it on Facebook. Its clothes hamper with pool noodles zip tied to it so it floats. Some of the dogs love it. Me, I’m not into the water sports. The high sides make it safer than a raft. Hope to see you all out and about. ~ Love Peanut
Employment Opportunities
Krause Home and Lawn CareSeeking 2 or 3 individuals to expand business. Construction experience is helpful. Wage will be based on experience. References requested. Clean driving record and driver’s license required. 267-261-7671
Spors General Store - Hiring Full & Part Time. Competitive Pay, Health Insurance, 401K, Family Contact Becky at bspor@sporsgeneralstore. com or 215-536-6754
Jackson Hewitt Tax ServicesQuakertown Office. Flexible schedule, hourly pay and bonuses, tax
preparation training, continuing education, Friends & Family discounts. Visit quakertown.net/jh Pool Pro - Hiring various positions in store and office, pool technicians and cleaners. Apply in person or send resume for interview. 201 S. Third Street, Coopersburg. Email: poolpropa@verizon.net
The Proper Brewing CompanyHiring Bartender, Dishwasher, Host, Cooks, Bartender Contact: kris@theproperbrewing.com or stop in at 117 W. Broad Street,Quakertown
Ponderings by Palma
BY PALMA MOYER, RN
Back in the day when I was a detox nurse, I would tell my patients that addiction is worse than cancer. Cancer can often be cured by surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Addiction is more like diabetes. Both are serious diseases, never cured, but when controlled those with this disease can live a long, healthy happy life. I am glad that alcoholism and drug addiction are now treated as a serious illness rather than a moral defect.
I used to tell the story about a 65-yearold lady who was a recovering alcoholic. She was sober 30 yrs. Her husband died and she had trouble sleeping, so she had a small glass of wine at bedtime to help her sleep. Before long she was a raging alcoholic, and had to go to a detox unit and rehab. I urge those of you who may
be struggling with this disease to get help. We all need to make choices on how we deal with our problems, either we chose to self-medicate by drinking, using drugs, excessive gambling, or whatever can be done to make us feel good and forget our issues. It has been my experience that addictions, if left untreated, never end well. Addiction is a serious but treatable illness. Addiction is not a moral weakness, it is a serious disease that is treatable and those with this issue can live a long happy, healthy life. Those in addiction need to choose whether they want to learn new coping skills which can be a life time of vigilance and selfdetermination or numbing oneself to their issues and a temporary escape from reality. Choose wisely and have a long healthy, happy life..
palMa iS a 1957 gRaDuate of teMple univeRSity hoSpital School of nuRSing. She ShaReS heR expeRienceS anD peRSpectiveS on nuRSing anD on life. She enjoyS heaRing fRoM you at DonthelpMeMoyeR@aol coM
Think Local. Work Local. Be Local.
“The heat of Autumn is different from the heat of Summer. One ripens apples, the other turns them to cider.” - Jane
Hirshfield
KwikGoal CEO Donates $250K to Raise Up Our Youth Campaign
Following the launch of the Raise Up Our Youth Campaign in Quakertown, River Crossing YMCA was pledged $250,000 from Anthony Caruso, president/CEO of KwikGoal, Ltd.
“I am a huge fan of what the YMCA is doing in Quakertown with the Raise Up Our Youth campaign,” explained Caruso. “I trained for two Iron Man competitions at this Y. This community has been very good to us over the years, so this is our opportunity to give back.”
The Raise Up Our Youth campaign at the Quakertown branch aims to create a safe and healthy epicenter for youth to foster mental, physical and spiritual wellness as they grow. The facility expansion includes a state-of-the-art gymnastics center, as well as the creation
pickleball. The expansion of the facility will also bring about the expansion of community impact programs such as the free, donor-supported YMCA Pathway programs serving military veterans, cancer survivors, pre-diabetics, seniors, teens, individuals with varying abilities, and adults recovering from mental illness.
“The Raise Up Our Youth campaign will provide our kids a safe place to be active and connect with friends away from the social pressures they endure every day,” said Zane Moore, president/CEO of River Crossing YMCA. “We are very fortunate to have the financial support of Anthony Caruso as we pick up momentum in achieving the campaign’s goal.”
To learn more about the Raise Up Our Youth campaign, or to
(l-r) Allyson Fox, VP of Operations for Quakertown branch of River Crossing YMCA; Anthony Caruso, president/CEO of KwikGoal, Ltd.; Zane Moore, president/CEO of RCYMCA; and Debbie Sontupe, development officer of RCYMCA, with Camp Bucks Quakertown campers.
BY PASTOR JON BAUMAN
"Keep alert, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love"
- 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (nrsv)
The month of September used to mean some new clothes, clean and fresh shoes, and a fresh pack of Ticonderoga pencils. Now, September simply means that it is almost flannel season, and the free time that my wife and I shared over the summer on Fridays has come to an end as she goes back to work at a school.
Across the nation, parents post proud photos of their children in their first day attire as they tell their friends and family what grade their precious children are going into, along with what they may want to be when they "grow up". When I
was in 5th grade, I wanted to be a Pastor, or a comedian, so here we are.
However, eventually in life, September just becomes another month, unless it is focused on those we care about who are still in education, and we stop asking ourselves and one another: "What are you most excited about for this next year?", "What do you need to do more of in your life?", "Are you still searching for your next project, dream, hobby, or career?"
Church on a Sunday morning, and times of reading the scripture and praying, can be that moment of encouragement that we need to move on from one stage in our lives to another; it can be a time when our faith is challenged, sharpened, and we are encouraged.
Do we say the opening words to a
prayer with the same hope that we have, or have had, on the first day of school?
Do we come to God with our dreams, concerns, fears, and excitement for the possibility of new beginnings when walking with Him in faith?
The Apostle Paul wrote to many different people in his ministry; encouraging them to believe in the Gospel of Jesus, that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for our sin, and rose again, and that believing in him is the way to eternal life, but he also spent a lot of time writing messages that boil down to: Christ calls us to live a certain way, help others a certain way, and to avoid the things that distract us from doing so, so here's where there needs to be some change.
The verses that I quoted are not verses often plastered on graduation gifts, or printed in cards of celebration, but they
are verses of encouragement for all of us, at any time. They are for the times of excited beginnings, fearful or nervous beginnings, difficult endings, or for simply every day that may get lost in our routines. These verses encourage us to maintain our commitment to the Gospel and our faith, to be of benefit to those around us, and to avoid things that distract us. And they call us to more than we currently are.
So, brother or sister in Christ, in whatever stage of life that you are in right now,
I hope that we keep alert and stand firm in our faith, I hope that we are courageous and strong, And I hope that all that we do is done in love. Amen.
jon bauMan iS the SenioR paStoR at fiRSt uniteD chuRch of chRiSt in QuakeRtown he can be ReacheD at jbauMan@fiRStucc net
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 218 East Broad Street 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: Derrick Thompson www.juniperstreetbiblechurch.org
Worship Sunday 10 am; also live on Facebook and Youtube. Bible study Tuesday 7 pm. We pray you will join us in worship and study.
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. 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. Graham Truscott
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) Mailing:PO Box 120, Spinnerstown, PA 18968 215-536-0734 stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org
Interim Pastor: The Rev. Susan Lang 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 10:15 am 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: Rev. Rachel Scheible
9 am Traditional service, Handicap accessible, Family Friendly, Dynamic Music Ministry, Living God’s Love for All
QCHS Alumni Spotlight: Michael Johnson '74
BY RAY FOX '66
Dear readers of the QCHS Spotlight, I want to thank all of you for the wonderful comments you have made about these articles. It is humbling to know that they are appreciated by so many readers. Again, I want to thank those of you who have recommended subjects for these articles. I still have a list of names that have been recommended but welcome additional recommendations. Please feel free to send them to me at rdefox@msn.com.
This month’s article is about Mike Johnson (Class of 1974). While in high school, Mike’s main activity was as a member of the golf team for grades 9-12. He was the team MVP in his senior year. He commented that his favorite memories from high school were the simpler things including being able to walk the halls knowing many the fellow students on a first name basis. He always felt it was an amazingly comfortable time and a time when you could talk to anyone. Another fond memory was the day of graduation and the walk from the high school over to alumni field. The opportunity to graduate in front of family and friends was a very emotional experience for him. It reminded him that a significant chapter of his life was ending and another was about to begin. Mike loved growing up in Quakertown on Ambler Street, attending Neidig Elementary School, and Quakertown Schools. His neighborhood friends included his best friend, Gordon Bryan, Craig Thatcher (written about in a previous Spotlight Article), and Steve Kelly. This September Mike’s Class of 1974 celebrated their 50th Class Reunion. Mike expressed fond memories of his favorite teacher; sixth grade teacher Mr. Orville Fine at Neidig Elementary. Several students often stayed after school with Mr. Fine to learn more about fishing. Mr. Fine has long been known as an outstanding angler. Mike mentioned that he still ties his own flies the way that Mr. Fine taught him. Also mentioned that he
had so many outstanding teachers who took their own personal time to make connections with students and inspired him to be a volunteer in his later years. He specifically mentioned Robert “Coach” Coleman and Judy Guise.
After graduation, Mike attended King’s College in Wilkes-Barre from 1974-1978. He was a Criminal Justice major graduating with a BS degree in Criminal Justice. He played baseball there as a freshman and then switched to the golf team for his Sophomore and Junior years.
Mike has had a variety of jobs over his lifetime. This includes working as a bus boy at Benetz Restaurant during high school, where he worked along with friends Dave Flora and Dave East. He also worked at the Bucks County Fur Company as a laborer, along with fellow QCHS Alum John Schoch. While in college, he worked summers as a laborer at the Krupp Foundry, which was located where the current Bucks County library and the Community Park at Fourth is now located. After graduation from King’s, Mike worked for the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy Sheriff. He worked at the Sheriff’s office until 1980 when he was hired by the Doylestown Township Police Department as a Patrolman. In 1988, he was promoted to Sergeant. Mike was chosen one of the one percent of all law enforcement officers to attend the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia in 1997 while he worked for the Doylestown Township Police Department. He retired in July 2009. In August of that year, he was hired by Plumstead Township Police Department as a Patrolman. In 2015 he was promoted to Corporal.
Mike was born at Quakertown Hospital in 1956. He has lived in Quakertown most of his life. His parents were Raymond (Class of ’36) and his mother Ruth Johnson. His father spent his entire life working at the Krupp Foundry and his mother owned a hair salon on Franklin Street where Mike was raised. He has a sister, Nancy Sanders (Class of 1960) who graduated from Bloomsburg University as a speech therapist. She still resides in Doylestown. Mike married his wife, Rosanne, in 1985. She has retired from Doylestown Hospital where she worked as a Laboratory Manager. Mike and Rosanne have three children who all attended QCHS. Evan (Class of 2005 is married to Maggie Steinberg (Class of 2009) and they have three children: Maisey, Nina, and Jude. Sean (Class of 2007) is married to Elise and they reside in Anchorage, Alaska. Sean is a wilderness guide. Caitlin (Class of 2009) resides in York, PA and is the Marketing Director for the YMCA of the Roses in the York area.
He commented that the renovation of the baseball stadium was especially meaningful to him because his father, he and his son all played Legion Baseball there. He was also a council member in support of building the new Panther Playground. He was a volunteer in helping build the original Panther Playground. On July 4, you will find Mike, along with fellow council members, volunteering at the Community Day Pancake Breakfast in Memorial Park. Over the years, Mike has received commendations from Doylestown Township and Plumstead Township Police. In 20023, he received the Law Enforcement Officer of the year award from the VFW in Doylestown and from the Pennsylvania American Legion. In 2004, he received commendations from the Delaware River Joint Bridge Commission and the Solebury Township Police for his assistance at a call of a subject threatening to jump off a bridge. In 2008, he was awarded the Citizen Award from the Quakertown Masonic Lodge.
Community service and volunteering have been a big part of Mike’s life. He coached Little League and Connie Mack baseball as well as coaching the Junior Varsity Baseball team at QCHS. He also coached intramural soccer and was a travel coach in soccer for several years. He is currently on the Board of Directors of Quakertown Alive and the Board of Trustees of St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus. He is a member of the Quakertown Lions Club and has been on Quakertown Borough Council since 2008. As a council member he has been part of some wonderful achievements in the Borough. This includes The Park at Fourth, the building of the new Skate Park on Main Street, the renovation of the community pool and baseball stadium.
The Quakertown Community Alumni Association encourages alumni to participate in the Association activities. Its mission includes fundraising to provide scholarship opportunities each year for graduating seniors. Please check out our Facebook Page “Quakertown High School Alumni Association” and the Alumni pages of the QCSD.org website for more information. We are a 501(c)3 organization and always welcome any contributions toward our scholarship endeavors. If you are interested in donating, email Qchsalumniboard@gmail.com and you will receive instructions on how to do so. Comments and ideas for future articles can be sent to Ray Fox at rdefox@msn.com. The Alumni board is a group of dedicated people who strive to support the students and alumni as much as we can. You could say that we “bleed blue” but more importantly, that we embody two commonly known Quakertown mottos:
“Enter To Learn; Leave To Serve.”
Jumping
Quite simply, dogs jump up to say hello. They don’t know how humans prefer to be greeted, and it never occurs to them that they might knock us over or ruin our clothes. Thankfully, consistent training can quickly solve the problem for good.
When you arrive home
• Open the door a teeny bit. If your dog jumps up, close the door.
• Repeat until you can step through the door without your dog jumping up.
• If he jumps on you, turn away. If he keeps jumping, go back outside and start again.
• Whenever your dog keeps four paws on the floor, praise and pet him.
Inside your house
• When your dog jumps on you, turn your back to him.
• When he stops jumping, turn around to face him. If he jumps again, turn your back to him again.
• Repeat until he stops jumping. Then pet and praise him.
• If your dog keeps jumping up when you turn your back, walk away from him, ignoring him completely. If he follows and jumps again, give him a time-out. Either close a door between you or put him in his confinement area for a minute or two.
Visitors come to your house
• When someone comes to the house, put your dog on leash before you open the door.
• Open the door and invite the visitor in. If your dog jumps up, walk him away from the visitor. Once he calms down, let him try again.
• Leave the leash on your dog during the visit. You don’t have to hold it the entire time, but if at any point during the visit your dog jumps up on your visitor, grab the leash and walk him away.
• Remember to praise and reward your dog with pets and attention when he keeps four paws on the floor.
Anti-jump training when you meet people on the street
• If your dog jumps up on someone approaching you on the street, walk a few feet away. When he settles, try again—if the person is willing.
Once your dog can keep four paws on the floor in the above situations (and you have trained “sit"), begin to ask for a sit before he says hello. With time and practice, your dog will automatically sit when he wants to greet people. Look for a pain-free trainer!
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Collectible Clocks
by the New Haven Clock Company
I appraise my fair share of antique and vintage clocks via my public appraisal events and through photo submissions to my website at www. DrLoriV.com. Some of the most intriguing clocks of all types are from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Many clock manufacturers were established in New England, specifically along the shoreline of southern Connecticut.
While the early twentieth century saw the advancement of many New England clock factories, some of the most fa mous clock shops were based in Connecticut such as Waterbury Clock Company, Seth Thomas, Ingraham Company, Eli Terry, Ansonia Clock company and the subject of this article, New Haven Clock Company.
Connecticut is the home to the manufacturers of many different types of mantle clocks, boudoir clocks, wall clocks, and tall case clocks made by the New Haven Clock Company, known locally as the New Haven Clock Shoppe. From southern Connecticut, the New Haven Clock Company produced clocks featuring cast bronze art nouveau cases, arched wooden cases that recall Gothic buildings, and hand painted ceramic cases as well as mantle clocks, wall clocks, shelf clocks, etc.
in cast metal. This production method of stamping out gears was a major cost-saver for the Connecticut-based clock factory. In fact, the stamped gears allowed the New Haven Clock Company to produce the lowest-priced clocks in the world. This was a great boost to business.
The New Haven Clock Company capitalized on its low-cost stamped gear clocks and introduced other clockwork production innovations. For instance, glow in the dark wrist watches with radium-laced dials were mass produced by the firm and shipped to soldiers serving abroad during World War I. The downside was that factory workers working on these products, known as Radium Girls, suffered radiation poisoning.
During World War II, timing fuses and mine relays were produced to support the war effort. Clock production, though reduced, resumed after World War II and eventually, in 1956, the factory closed.
Some of the factory buildings were leveled to accommodate the new Interstate highway system, Interstate 91 which connects northern and southern Connecticut from the state’s major cities of Hartford and New Haven, in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
In 1884, Chauncey Jerome relocated his clock factory from Bristol, CT to New Haven, CT. The new factory and office location was situated on two acres of land near the predominantly Italian immigrant community of Wooster Square and within proximity to the Mill River and the city of downtown New Haven.
Jerome was trained by Eli Terry, the famed clockmaker. Jerome took great strides in the clockmaking business as he discovered the stamping method for making clock gears rather than utilizing the expensive method of producing gears
Today, collectors seek out New Haven Clock Company clocks in various designs. The firm produced as many as 300 different types of clocks. Most are clearly marked on the clock’s dials. During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, New Haven clocks were clearly marked with two trademark names: Jerome & Co., which was a mark used until 1904 and New Haven Clock Co. which was a clear mark found on the front dial of many of the firm’s clocks.
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Friday, September 20
American Legion Post 242 September Update
Summer’s heat is finally exiting. As fall approaches Post 242 is once again starting its extra (open to the public) eating specials. Once again “The Sons” organization will be offering the famous Sunday morning breakfast. They also will have their turn at the Friday evening special –Cheese Steak evening. So keep an eye out for these meals on our electronic sign out in front of the Post. I believe the breakfast is the 2’d Sunday and the Cheese Steak is the 3’d Friday. Of course the Post will have their “Friday Night Specials” on the remaining Fridays. The food is great!
On September 11th we will have our special service honoring “Our First Responders.”
Congratulations are due to the Quakertown Legion Baseball team on winning THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP for the 2’d straight year! These young people, a baseball team for physically challenged youth, and other youth programs are the main reason we have our yearly youth drawing. This year we are going to include fund raising for a new pavilion at Camp Quabosco. Matter of fact the drawing we just had to aid Veteran’s needs netted about $3400.
We also honor the 18 Bucks County Residents lost on that fateful day in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C. The services lasting about a half hour will take place at our Post on September 11th at 11:00 AM. We urge you to come to our Post at 610 East Broad Street here in Quakertown to show YOUR gratitude for their service and dedication to duty. These first responders include the Fire Companies, the Police, the Ambulance EMT’s and Paramedic’s Etc.
Mark on your calendar the time and place for the region’s wonderful “Veteran’s Day” program. This year it will be at Pennridge High School located at 1228 N. 5th Street in Perkasie, PA. The program will start promptly at 10:00 AM on November 11, 2024. More information will follow in next month’s column.
~ For God & Country, Dick Helm
So You Think You Can Paint? Mural Proposed
for Downtown Quakertown
Quakertown Alive! is seeking pro posals for the design of a mural for the East wall of the Sine’s 5 & 10 building at 236-240 W. Broad Street in Downtown Quakertown Borough. Interested par ties may include art teachers, artists, community art groups, any persons who have experience with similar projects. Proposals are due by September 30, 2024. This will be the second mural QA! has commissioned to beautify the downtown area, the other being on the East facing wall of the building at Broad and Front Streets across from the Proper Brewing Company as one enters the downtown business district. The Sine’s mural will not necessarily follow the same theme, format, or method.
See the QA! website for details about what the organization is looking for at www.quakertownalive.com.
2024 Subaru Crosstrek
Subaru’s Outback SUV was always the carmakers top seller, but most recently, their 2024 Crosstrek is the top sales leader. And there’s many reasons for that. I see a lot of them on the road and many are being driven by young ladies and even retired folks. In fact, husband and wife friends of mine, both in their 80s, recently traded their older Subaru Forester for a Crosstrek Sport as they no longer need the interior space but wanted the AWD capability and improved fuel economy.
Crosstrek is offered in Base, Premium, Sport (that has yellow trim), Limited and Wilderness that we were privileged to
test. For 2024, Crosstrek has been redesigned from out to in and comes with a new suspension that makes it fun to drive with just the right amount of sportiness.
With all new sheetmetal, Crosstrek Wilderness is sporty with hints of ruggedness. A new grille plus black cladding covers the wheel arches, bumpers, a flat black glare-free decal adorns the hood along with gold tips that detail the bumper edges and roof rack. Large air ducts on the front bumper serve to cool the brakes. Wilderness also has a 0.6-inch higher ground clearance for 9.3 inches of clearance (compared to 8.7 on other models) for when going off the beaten trail. It also has an approach angle of 20 degrees and departure angle of 33 degrees.
sist and rear cross traffic alert.
Below the huge touchscreen in a wireless phone charger and a burly gear selector for the CVT transmission that included paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Over on the analog gauge cluster, it has a driver information display for features, functions and alerts.
Back in the spacious cargo and with the second-row seats upright, there’s 20.0 cubic feet of cargo space that measures 31.5 inches deep. Flip them and space increases to 54.9 cubic feet for 60 inches (5 feet) of cargo loading depth. While Crosstrek is considered a compact, it doesn’t have compact cargo space but a deceptive amount that you wouldn’t expect to find in a compact rossover of this size.
While Crosstrek is offered with two engines, the Wilderness came with a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder that generates 182-hp and 178 lb/ft of torque for EPA mileage estimates of 25 city, 29-higway mpg with engine auto start/stop technology. Coupled to the CVT transmission, Wilderness has a 3,500-pound tow capacity that’s sufficient for a utility trailer or small boat. So powered, the 2.5L had impressive
power under full throttle acceleration runs. The engine is relatively quiet for a four cylinder. And Crosstrek handles spritely and it’s easy and a breeze to park. Shod with Yokohama 17-inch tires, the ride is supple and smooth with a touch of sportiness.
Subaru designers dialed-up the interior by giving it faux carbon fiber dash trim, softer and more supportive heated weather proof front seats, a large 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen (a 7-inch is standard on lower trims) and gold accents on the steering wheel. And despite the increase in ground clearance, step-in into the cockpit is a low 19 inches. The comfy back seat offers good leg room for two adults or three small youngsters.
Subaru’s Crosstrek Wilderness is the perfect crossover for adventure-oriented folks. Strap on a pair of kayaks atop the raised ladder type roof rails and there’s an outdoor excursion waiting to happen. And as said, it’s a great car for retired folks. In fact, a Wilderness is on my retirement wish list as my next car purchase as I’ve owned an Outback in the past and know Suby’s capabilities and utility.
The first feature to grab the eyes upon sliding into the comfy front seats is the large vertical touchscreen that serves a multitude of functions such as climate, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, audio, rearview camera, Subaru Starlink, Weather reports and the enhanced X Mode AWD system with selectable modes of Snow/Dirt, Normal, Deep Snow/Mud. Crosstrek also has a hill-descent mode for steep hills. The only gripe we have here is that the climate/HVAC screen doesn’t stay on long enough. It goes off after a minute. It should stay on until another selection is made.
The other gripe is that at night in the dark I had a tendency to push the Trip Reset button when starting the engine instead of the large keyless ignition switch below it.
There’s also Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist that features auto emergency braking and steering, adaptive cruise with lane centering along with automatic high beams. In addition, Crosstrek comes with blind spot detection with lane change as-
With all the aforementioned apps, safety features, sunroof and more, Crosstrek Wilderness carried a base price of $31,995 to which was added an options package of $2,270 and delivery of $1,295 that took the bottom line to $35,560.
Keep in mind Crosstrek, like all Subaru’s, retain their value and Crosstrek’s in particular have exceptional value. Try finding a used one on. If you do, it was probably a lease deal where the owner leased another one before the mileage got too high.
Crosstrek comes with a 3 year/36K mile basic warranty and 5/60K mile powertrain warranty. An added buying enticement is that Crosstrek earned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) top score of five stars and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named it a Top Safety Pick.
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“There is a time in late September when the leaves are still green and the days are still warm, but somehow you know that it is all about to end, as if summer was holding its breath, and when it let it out again, it would be autumn.”
- Sharyn McCrumb
ACTION RECOVERY BRAIN INJURY SERVICES
Our Services include:
• Residential habilitation with 24-hour supervision
• Neurocognitive Structured Day
There is little military service in my ancestry. No Gettysburg or San Juan Hill heroes adorn my family tree. My father is my only blood-line veteran. He was drafted and served during WWII, as was his brother, Uncle Don. Also, Uncle Harry HinkeI (QCHS class of 1957), was a Minuteman for SAC in the 1960’s. but that’s all I know of. I was ‘of age’ for Viet Nam, turned eighteen September, 1970. But I attended the University of Pittsburgh and, happily, got a Selective Service “2-S" (Student), deferment. It wasn’t just me. In those days, every guy I knew was afraid of the draft.
I’d had knee surgery in high school and was ineligible for enlistment or the Reserve Officer Training Course (not that I had interest in either). But surprisingly, I wasn’t exempt from the draft. I thought the government (The Man, we called it), was being unfair. I could legally kill people but couldn’t buy tobacco, drink alcohol and, especially aggravating, I couldn’t even vote the bums out! I protested the injustices and the war by attending a couple hippy rallies and… getting married (not the real reason—I was in love). After January 1972, I had a 1-M (Married) deferment and was less likely to be drafted. The war was over before I graduated and I got to vote for Nixon or McGovern. I felt a little guilty for not ‘serving’ but…. I weaseled out of serving but some in my family didn’t. Great-uncle Norman Frank (QHS–1912?), brought a trench art 37mm
shell home from WWI. My dad served for years in WWII. He made sergeant as a searchlight operator in the signal corps of the 5th U.S. Army. He earned ribbons for Africa, Sicily, and Italy. Another uncle was just a soldier, too. Uncle Harry took Airforce ROTC at Franklin and Marshal and was a lieutenant in the Strategic Air Command. He was a pilot but had the “Hinkel back”, was grounded and reassigned to Minuteman silos in North Dakota. He didn’t like that and quit as soon as he could, but did Reserve weekends for years. None of them got hurt and nobody had ‘good’ war stories. My explanation for ‘shirking my duty’ is, my generation was a little scared and traumatized. Maybe not as badly as our parents who suffered the Depression, WWII, Korea, and the Commies, but still, we were under stress too. There was no Clean Air and Clean Water Acts till 1972. As kids, a dip at the swimming hole, or even just getting a soaker in the ubiquitous black muck exposed us to strange chemicals and micro-organisms. Sewer rats scurried along the litter strewn Licking Run through Quakertown. Foul fumes reeked from Krupp Foundry and Grace chemical plant. The borough’s coal-fired powerplant spewed smoke. Acrid aromas and noise wafted from the rubber plant and textile mills. Trucks sprayed tar and creosote on the streets and blew clouds of DDT across the neighborhoods. People freely burned trash in their backyard and dumped almost anything into the creek. But we didn’t
• Pre-vocational and vocational skill development
worry too much about that stuff till later. There were bigger concerns back then. First, they started testing H-Bombs and building ICBMs. Then Sputnik flew overhead and the Russkies showed up in Cuba. The borough’s steam-whistle blew practice air-raid warnings. We’d close the blinds and take cover under our desks. People built bunkers and stored food and medicines. To traumatize us more, they started assassinating our potentates and rioting in the streets. It was a bummer. But nothing scared us more than watching the first-ever fought “live on TV” war. We saw the body-counts rise, politicians lie, and flower-power protests turn tragic. Then, while brooding over all that, our Selective Service papers arrived in the mail.
Some people I knew came home hurt exacerbating my concerns. A neighbor, Don Richter (QHS-1968?), who’s dad was Quakertown’s mayor, got hit by a booby-trap. He had scars on his neck and chest. He was quieter but seemed okay. They didn’t talk about PTSD yet. I met Moose Melusky, a Theta Chi alum, who suffered friendly grenade fire. He limped, had a marled eye, was missing parts of three fingers, and had a shortened colon. His buddies were all killed that night so he was ‘cool’ with what he got--free college, medical coverage, and a pension. But “make love, not war” became his mantra. I agreed.
My roommate and I had close birthdays, September 6th, and 8th. We sensed conspiracy by The Man when he drew Draft Lottery
number 43 and I got 42. We’d go for sure when our deferments expired. To dodge the draft he knuckled down to his neglected studies to keep that 2-S valid. I was lazy and got married instead. Frat ‘brother’ Otis was older and drew Lottery #1!! Otis was a stereotypical long-haired, dope-smoking hippy. He started counting down the months till graduation. The next semester, he wasn’t around. I saw him on campus but he’d cleaned up, had short hair and wore a uniform! He’d joined ROTC to ‘go’ as an officer. Young lieutenants got hurt a lot, though. I wasn’t ‘radical’ but almost went to a D.C. protest, once. The clubbing and teargas made me glad I didn’t. Instead, I hitchhiked to Calgary, Alberta, to see a pen-pal girlfriend. It was a big hassle getting across the border. They thought I was a draft dodger, but finally let me in. After I got married, I had a dependent and the army didn’t want me anymore. There were plenty of single guys like Otis floating around. I eventually did serve the military, but only vicariously. Two of my children took advantage of the all-volunteer military’s college benefits, enlisted, served and are honorable veterans. Geoffery R. (QHS1994), was in Iraq with the Airforce. Jennifer N. (QCH-1995), was activated with Army Chemical Operations but never deployed abroad (Remember? No WMD’s). I was proud of them. As an old draft dodger, I got one of those ‘Active Services’ parent’s flags with two stars and hung it out front.
“Make love, not war,” still sounds good to me, though.
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Hundreds of people enjoyed a beautiful day with vendors, kids' activities,
at Richland Township's Annual Community Day at Veterans Park August 24th. (top) State Representative Craig Staats, Savannah Benner, Amalia Ritter. (aBove) Richland Township’s Finest: (l-r) Detective Mike Colahan, sergeant Mike Kirthardt, Officer Nick Lafata, Chief Richard Ficco. pHotos By micHele Buono
