Upper Bucks Free Press • May 2026

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

Trumbauersville Fire Co is selling Cemetery Cross’s handmade from the cutting of the wood to decorations & a light on the Cross. Contact Marilyn at 215-536-2518

Telford Night Market every Wednesday May 27-Aug 26 at 5:30pm - 8:30pm at David S Snook Community Building Lot, 125 S Hamilton St, Telford. Local vendors, live music, great food. Vendor applications at telfordhappenings.com

May 1

“On the Waterfront” free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome. 215-257-9718

May 1, 2, 3

“Steel Magnolias” live performance at DCP Theatre, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. $20/ticket. Hours are either 7:30pm or 2pm depending on day selected. FMI dcptheatre.org, 215-234-0966

May 2

Annual Clothing Give-Away 9am-1pm at East Swamp Church, 2405 East Swamp Rd, Quakertown. Info: 215-536-4532. eastswamp.org

Springtown Rod & Gun Club 100th Year Celebration, 10am-3pm at 3146 Rt 212, Springtown. Fun, food & activities. Black Powder Live Fire & tours of fish nursery. FMI 610-346-8806

Annual Locally Grown Showcase 10am-3pm at Upper Salford Park in Schwenksville. Fun for the family with live music, food trucks, free face painting & henna tattoos.

Sportsman’s Bingo for Richlandtown Fire Co. Open 12noon, games 1pm at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry St, Quakertown. Must be 21+, kitchen will be open. Extra games & raffles available.

Ruck 4 Bucks & Vets Celebration & Cornhole Tournament, 12noon-9pm at Sellersville Moose, 301 Park Ave. Food, fun, live music, raffle baskets.

Art & Craft Fair 9am-2pm at St. George’s Episcopal, 725 Delaware Ave, Hellertown Spaghetti Dinner 4pm-7pm at Trumbauersville Fire Co, 142 N Main St. FMI: 215-536-2518 or 215-989-0909

May 3

Sportsman’s Bingo at Sellersville Fire Dept, 2 N Main St. $70/adv, $75/door if available. Open 11:30am, games 1pm. Kitchen is open. Ticket info: sellersvillefd. com or squareup.com/store/sellersvillefd Cash Bingo 1pm-4pm (open 11:30am) at Red Hill Firehouse Social Club, 82 E 5th St, Red Hill. Lots of extras! Food/Drinks/ Bake Sale! No outside food. FMI 610301-8012

Spring Concert with Montgomery County Concert Band 3pm at Souderton High School, 625 Lower Rd, Souderton. Concert is free, donations accepted after the program. Want to know more about this band? montcoband.org

May 5

“1759 Richard Penn Land Deed Conservation” program & Dinner Meeting of Perkasie Historical Society

6:30pm at St. Stephen’s UCC, 110 N 6th St, Perkasie. Dinner/$15. Reserve by Thursday before meeting at 215-257-9624

May 8

“Norma Rae” free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome. 215-257-9718

Free Laura Williams Concert 7pm at Morning Star Fellowship, 429 S 9th St, Quakertown. A night of Christian music & Worship. All donations go toward supporting Quakertown Community Center’s THE DROP.

Quakertown Rotary Bag Bingo at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd. Open 6pm, games 7pm. $35/adv, $40/door. BYOB food/drinks. Quakertown.RC@gmail.com or 215-538-5600 x560

River Crossing Gymnastics Center Open House 5:30pm-7:30pm at 401 Fairview Ave, Quakertown. All are invited to explore the new space and meet our gymnastics team in the Quakertown YMCA

May 8, 9, 10

‘CHICAGO Teen Edition’ (QCHS Spring Musical) Fri/Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm at Quakertown High School on Park Ave. Best for ages 13+. $15/adult, $10/student. Tickets: msbtickets.com/quakertown/ districtevents

May 9

Free Bike Rodeo at 9am at Quakertown Community Pool Parking Lot, 601 W Mill St. Safety tips, bike inspections, skills course, refreshments, games, prizes & a bicycle drawing. Quakertown.org/ bikerodeo

Plant, Bake & Soup Sale 9am-3pm at Passer Community Center, 2850 Richlandtown Pike, Coopersburg. FMI 610-248-2843. Plant vendors wanted.

‘Go Native Plant Sale’ Spring Event 9am1pm indoors at Penn State Extension, 576 Penns Park Rd, Newtown. Support pollinators & migrating birds. Supplies limited, Early arrival encouraged for best selection. FMI 267-483-2020

Flea Market Benefit 8am-1pm at Grace UMC, 295 S Main St, Telford. Spaces $20 cash. Call 215-723-2144 to reserve space.

Richland Library Presentation 2pm “Our Lost Tohickon Valley-Haycock Twp, Bucks Co” w/co-authors Pamela Varkony & Marjorie Fulp at Richland Library, 44 S Main St, Quakertown. Free will donation. Perkasie Patchwork Coffeehouse & Bucks County Folk Song Society’s BCFSS

Annual Members Showcase Concert 7:30pm-10pm at Perkasie Mennonite, 320 W Chestnut St, Perkasie. Free will donation. Doors open 7pm.

May 10 Mother’s Day

May 12

Zion Choral Auditions 7pm-8:15pm at East Swamp Church, 2405 East Swamp Rd, Quakertown. FMI: zionchoral.com/ contact or zionchoral@gmail.com

May 11

‘Bitter Harvest, White Gold, Black Magic & Three Little Graves in Rockhill’ by Jay Searock. Book is a historical fiction about 3 children, Yellow Fever epidemic & local legends. 7pm at West Rockhill Twp Building, 1028 Ridge Rd, Sellersville

May 15

“A Place in the Sun” free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome. 215-257-9718 Pennridge Community Center Shredding Event 10am-12noon at 145 E Main St, Perkasie. Limit of 5 bags or boxes. No metal, paperclips or staples. Donations welcome.

May 16

Arts Alive! Artisan/Craft Festival 10am-4pm on Broad St in Downtown Quakertown. (r/d May 17) Entertainment all day, Food court, Train rides, Kids fun, Wine, Beer tastings, Alpacas. 215-5362273

Stand-Up Comedy Night honoring DCP Comedy Legend & Member, Howard “The Senator” Algeo. Open 7pm. One night only! DCP Theatre, 795 Ridge Rd, Telford. BYOB, recommended adults only. Pay what you want at the door. 215234-0966

Heritage Day activities honoring our 250th Anniversary 11am-5pm at Grist Mill Complex and Michael Heller Homestead. Free admission & shuttle service. More info @ 610-838-1770, hellertownhistoricalsociety.org

May 16 & 17

“Peek of Perkasie” display, 12noon-4pm at Perkasie Historical Society Museum, 513 W Walnut St. Features unique items from Perkasie’s Past.

May 17

‘Ride for the Ranch 2026’ LCR animal rescue fundraiser, Keelersville Club, 2522 Ridge Rd, Perkasie. Register 9am, Kickstands up 11am. $20/rider, $10/ passenger. (r/d May 31) Info: 215-2579949

‘Local Revolutionary War Battles’ program presented by local historian Jim

Segrave-Daly at 2pm, Trinity Lutheran at 2165 Rt 212, Pleasant Valley (GPS Coopersburg) Public invited, no admission charge. Questions? 484-308-1510

May 18

Keystone Quilters meet at St. John’s Lutheran, 26 1st Ave, Richlandtown. Open 6:30pm, meeting 7pm. Program: American Pride presented by Quilt historians/collectors Pat & Arlan Christ. Guest fee $5. FMI 267-261-6202

May 22

“The Pajama Game” free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome. 215-257-9718

May 23

Sellersville Legion Post 255 Memorial Day Parade. Line up 8:15am at Clymer Ave & Diamond St. Parade begins 9am and continues to the Service at Veterans Memorial in Lenape Park. Participate? DOUGLASWILHELM@ICLOUD.COM

May 24

34th Lake Lenape Jamboree Car Show. Register 9am-12noon, $20/pre-registered, $25/day of show. SEE AD in this issue for details! (r/d May 25)

Richlandtown Historical Society

‘Introduction to Native American Artifacts from the Area’ 2pm-4pm, Shelly Schoolhouse, 130 Richlandtown Pike, Quakertown. Speaker: Bruce Hentchel will share his Lenape artifacts. Refreshments following. 215-536-5505 May 25 MeMorial Day

May 26

‘Dine & Donate’ 4pm-8pm at Spors General Store, 22 W Broad St, Trumbauersville. Portion of proceeds donated to Trumbauersville Fire Co.

May 27

‘The Revolutionary War-1776…What they didn’t teach you in High School’ with Herb Kaufman @ 7pm at Hilltown Twp Building, 13 W Creamery Rd, Hilltown. Free, donations welcome. HilltownHistory.org

May 29

“The Molly Maguires” free movie matinee every Friday 2pm-4pm at Perkasie Library, 491 Arthur Ave. Peanut-free crunchy snacks & beverages in lidded containers are welcome. 215-257-9718

Designer Purse Bingo fundraiser at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry St, Quakertown. $35. Open 5pm, games 6pm. Age 21+, BYO food & beverages. Raffles, prizes, 50/50. Email teamharrison1013@gmail.com

May 30

Springfield Twp Historical Society Open House 9:30am-12:30pm at One-room Schoolhouse, 2165 Rt 212 Pleasant Valley. Historical documents, albums, etc. Board members available for discussion. Questions? 484-308-1510

Bucks County SPCA Quakertown Shelter Open House, 12noon-3pm at 60 Reservoir Rd. Self-guided tour, meet & even adopt one of our animals, pet supply sale, games/ activities, tasty treats, raffle baskets.

What’s Going On in Upper Bucks?

May 31

Quakertown & Upper Perk Rotary Clubs

Cornhole Tournament at Mumbauersville Gun Club, 1911 Klines Mill Rd, Pennsburg. Registration begins 1pm with bags flying at 2pm. $80/team. BYOB, Food truck, prizes, raffle

Green Hills Farm Arboretum Opening Day 1pm-4pm at Pearl S. Buck Estate, 520 Dublin Rd, Perkasie. Part of a 67acre National Historic Landmark. Family activities, ice cream, explore our gardens & walkways. Free event, open to public.

June 6

‘Lunch & Learn’ for Veterans, 11am1pm at Post 242 American Legion, 610 E Broad St, Quakertown. Learn about your benefits, PACT Act & more. Free lunch, but text Karen at 610-986-2265, limited seating. Handicap accessible. 26th Trumbauersville Community Day 3pm-7pm at Trumbauersville Veterans Park. Strawberry Festival, Kids’ Corner, Craft Vendors and Fireworks at 9pm.

June 7

Heritage House Festival 12noon-5pm at

June 2

2026 Carousel & Band Organ Anniversary Picnic at Menlo Park, 425 Arthur Ave, Perkasie. Carousel’s 75th & Stinson Band Organ’s 30th. Enjoy cheerful marches & take a spin on the Carousel.

June 4, 5, 6

Community Yard Sale 9am-dusk in Quakertown.at your house (or Jane Stover parking lot 8am-noon). Info/applications due by May 27 at Quakertown.org/ YardSale

June 5

Trumbauersville Fire Co Hoagie & Salad

Order date for pickup on June 14 between 12noon and 2pm. Call Jen to order at 215989-9090

James Memorial Park, 1027 Ridge Rd, Sellersville. Free admission, rain or shine. FMI 215-285-0881

Veterans Lunch & Learn Seminar 11am1pm. American Legion Post 242 at 610 E Broad St, Quakertown. Free lunch provided. Must register: text 610-9862265. Handicap accessible & nonsmoking.

June 8

Quiz Night with Steve Heck- on our 250th Anniversary of America. Questions will be based on how much you know about America’s history. 7pm at West Rockhill Twp Building, 1028 Ridge Rd, Sellersville.

Shea Lightcap Named UBCTS April Student of the Month

Shea Lightcap has been selected as the Upper Bucks County Technical School’s April Student of the Month. A Pennridge student who resides in Telford, Shea is the oldest of four siblings, with two sisters and a brother, so it’s safe to say she’s had plenty of experience being a role model. At home, she enjoys the company of her two dogs, who are likely just as lively.

Shea decided to attend UBCTS just before the application deadline. Although she was initially hesitant to leave her friends, she ultimately followed her interests after touring the school in 8th grade and began her journey in 9th grade. Since then, she has fully embraced the experience—and it’s safe to say she made the right choice.

One of Shea’s favorite aspects of her program, Veterinary Assisting, has been the relationships she has built, both with her classmates and the animals she works with. She appreciates that, much like people, every critter has its own unique personality. A standout moment during her time at UBCTS was participating in the Farm Show, which she describes as a rewarding and memorable experience.

Outside of school, Shea enjoys playing volleyball, as well as painting, drawing, and reading. She also volunteers at New Britain Veterinary Clinic, gaining valuable hands-on experience and continuing to grow

It’s May…is Spring finally here to stay?

April’s weather took us on a tour from below freezing nights to between 80 and 90 days! Deciding to plant was a rollercoaster. Hopefully Mother Nature will be kinder in May.

Shea has been an active member of FFA for all four years, demonstrating strong commitment and leadership. In 10th grade, she competed in a Career Development Event, earning a top-five placement. She has also achieved her Keystone Degree, further highlighting her dedication and accomplishments within the organization.

her skills (and probably making a few animal friends along the way). After graduation, Shea plans to attend the University of Pittsburgh to study Biological Sciences, with the long-term goal of attending veterinary school. Her ultimate aspiration is to work in the rehabilitation of racehorses, combining her passion for animal care with her career ambitions.

Shea’s dedication, compassion, and drive make her a deserving recipient of this recognition—and UBCTS is proud to celebrate her success.

May is Plant Sale Month for both Bucks County Master Gardeners and Master Watershed Stewards.

Don’t miss the Master Gardener Sale at the Middletown Grange Fair Grounds on Saturday, May 9 from 9 am to 1 pm, in Building 2 Expect a large variety of Annuals, Perennials, Herbs, House Plants, Vegetables, Pollinator Plants, and Mother’s Day Plants, as well as plants grown by Master Gardeners. Many Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer your questions and assist with your purchases. Your purchases help the Bucks County Cooperative Extension support community outreach, maintain demonstration gardens and gardening education.

The sale features only straight species Native Plants, some specially grown by Master Watershed Stewards. Plants will be available in a one-gallon Nursery Pot, and a 5-plug, same species group. New this year will be a ‘pick-your-own’ ‘mix-and-match’ feature. A variety of containers with multiple species will also be available. Whether you have sun or shade, dry or moist soil we have the plants for you. Master Watershed Stewards will be on hand to help you choose the right plants for your garden conditions.

Spotted Lantern Fly (SLF) Update –Just because you haven’t seen any lately doesn’t mean they are not around. They are consistently hitting vineyards, one of their favorite targets. Eastern and Lower Bucks have reported sightings of the SLF. Late April or early May is hatching time, depending on degree days. This website is a tool to help determine if SLF are presen and when they may hatch. tools.cei.psu.edu/slf/

Penn State is continually researching the feeding habits of the SLF. One focus is Northwestern PA, known as the ‘Concord Grape Belt’, where the grapes grown are for juice, not wine. They are harvested mechanically and if SLF were present, they would end up in the vats sold to processors. Processor inspections would reject the entire vat causing great expense to the grower. This part of PA is currently free of the SLF so research is extremely important to keep them out of this area. Wine grapes are hand harvested, so those grape growers have better control of SLF populations. PDA Operations and Regulatory Agency is in charge of treatment and enforcement. Public reports of SLF sightings are still important as they concentrate on heavily infested areas and newly infested areas to try to slow the spread. Three treatments per year using Bifenthrin and or Dinotefuran are applied. Roadside inspections of Commercial vehicles help to control compliance to permits. They also make plant enforcement visits, 2,000 since January 2025. Letters of noncompliance are sent. Most companies respond positively and come into compliance. To date 1,421,111 permits have been issued to 33,292 companies. Do your part. Inspect your car, truck, RV for egg masses or SLF Nymphs before you leave your home. If you have SLF hatch this Penn State Publication can help you with management. extension.psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly Contact the Bucks County Garden/Watershed Hotline for help. Bucksmg@psu.edu or 267-483-2020 Our Home Garden/Watershed Hotline is open remotely Monday thru Friday, 9-12 and 1-4. Our office is often staffed in person on Thursday afternoons. Please call before visiting.

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

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

Staats District Office Manager

Debra Zylstra to Retire

District Office Manager for State Representative Craig Staats (145), Debra Zylstra, is retiring from her position after seven years with Staats and for 12 years prior as a Legislative Aide on past State Representative Paul Clymer’s staff. Her 19 years serving the community via her work with the State House of Representatives caps off a 38-year career which began as a tapping operator with Penn

Both Staats and Clymer say that Zylstra has been an invaluable staff member with intense professionalism and devotion to her duty, both to her colleagues as well as the community.

Zylstra officially retires on June 8 and will be recognized by Proclaimation by the House of Representatives for her service.

Best wishes for a happy and rewarding retirement! Your work has not

Liberty Hall

Liberty Hall, on West Broad Street just east of Main Street, has been a Quakertown landmark for centuries. Built in 1772 as an addition to an adjacent, long-gone house it is lauded as the oldest residence in town. Liberty Hall received its name, and is noteworthy, because, in September 1777, on its ‘escape’ from Philadelphia as the British army approached (along with about a dozen other bells), the Liberty Bell allegedly stayed overnight on a wagon in a field behind the building. [I’ll explain ‘allegedly’ later].

Currently owned and maintained by the Borough, Liberty Hall is ‘managed’ by the Quakertown Historical Society (QHS), as are the Burges Foulke House & archives and the Chamber of Commerce Museum.

The tiny, two-story building is presented in colonial style and is included on QHS tours. Liberty Hall was awarded a National Historic Places designation in 1978 but recently was denied a Pennsylvania Museum and Historical Commission Historic Marker due to insufficient regional or statewide significance. [The ‘allegedly’ part played a role, too].

But first, the Liberty Bell. In 1751 the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly approved 150 Pounds, 13 Shillings (over 21,000 British Pounds, today), to spend on a new bell for the State House (now Independence Hall). The bell was to replace the one William Penn brought with him on his first trip to America. The colony’s agent in London, Robert Charles,

contracted Lester and Pack Bell-Founding firm (now Whitechapel Bell Foundry), to fill the order. The funds were to be spent on a “good bell of about 2,000-pound weight” inscribed with a Bible verse, Leviticus XXV. 10: “Proclaim Liberty thro’ all the Land to all the Inhabitants thereof”, and for transportation and insurance.

The new State House bell arrived in in Philadelphia in August 1752. It was mounted on a wooden stand to ‘test sound’ and on the first ring the rim of the bell cracked. Speculation was that the clapper had been installed incorrectly. Pennsylvania authorities tried to send the bell back to London for repair but the ship that delivered it was fully laden.

Local founders, John Pass and John Stow, offered to recast the State House Bell though they had no experience making bells. It was broken down at their 2nd Street foundry and recast there. Determining the metal was too brittle they added 10% copper. It was redelivered in March 1753. At the First Ringing public ceremony where free food and drink was provided to attenders it is said the bell sounded “like two coal scuttles being banged together.” Pass and Stow were mocked by the crowd and quickly took the bell back for recasting. At the third, this time private, test ringing Assembly Speaker Isaac Norris didn’t like the sound, but it was deemed acceptable. The bell hung in the State House cupola for the next 24 years.

In September 1777, as General Howe’s troops approached Philadelphia after victories at Brandywine and Paoli, the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania

ordered all public bells in the city be “removed to a place of security.” Afraid the bells would be confiscated and reforged into cannons, the militia commander in the city, Benjamin Flower, received a secret directive: “Ordered: that Colonel Flower employ James Worrel, Fransis Allison and Mr. Evans, carpenters, or such other workmen as he may think proper to employ, to take down the bells of all public buildings in this city and convey them to safety.” The bell relocation was clandestine and undocumented. Consequently, the details, timing and the route of the ‘Flight of the Bells’ has always been debated and results in Quakertown’s claim being ‘alleged.’ The bells returned to Philadelphia from the Lehigh Valley in August 1778, after the British had evacuated the city.

There are several stories regarding the State House Bell’s famous crack. Some say it was damaged while welcoming Lafayette on his return to the United States in 1824. Some believe it cracked while announcing the British Catholic Relief Act of 1829, when some young boys were given the opportunity to ring the bell did so with excessive enthusiasm. In a book produced by the National Park Service it is suggested that the bell cracked on the Fourth of July, or Washington’s Birthday sometime between 1841 and 1845. However, the most often taught story is that the bell cracked when it was rung upon the death of Chief Justice John Marshall in 1835. Regardless, it wasn’t famous, yet.

The State House Bell was first called the Liberty Bell by the New York Anti-Slavery Society in 1835. Its verse, ‘Let Freedom Ring’ became a rally cry for many abolition groups across the country. The bell’s crack represented the fragility and

imperfection of our liberty. The Liberty Bell grew into a national icon and toured the country during the 1876 Centennial celebrations. It soon became the international symbol it remains today.

As its fame increased, the bell’s history was researched. Little information about its secret journey to the Lehigh Valley was uncovered. It’s known that Colonel Thomas Polk was ordered to escort a Heavy Baggage train to Bethlehem with 200 soldiers. The route they took is still debated. One theory is that the bells traveled out of the city along the Delaware River then across eastern Bucks County, entering Bethlehem through Durham Township. A more generally believed theory is that the bells escaped the city to Whitemarsh, General Washington’s supply base then up Bethlehem Pike (one of the oldest roads and stage routes in the U.S.), through Richland (named Quakertown in 1803), and on to Northampton Town (Allentown).

The Trail of the Bells has been celebrated in Upper Bucks ever since. A trolley line was established along Bethlehem Pike connecting Bucks and Montgomery with Northampton counties was named Liberty Bell Route in 1907. A contemporary plan for a bike/hike route extending north from Philadelphia along the route will be called Liberty Bell Trail.

The Quakertown Historical Society ‘alleges’ that the Liberty Bell sat in a wagon behind Liberty Hall one night in September 1777. We’re proud of that and invite you stop by to visit, sometime.

Jack Schick iS a long time Quakertown area reSident and regular contributor at ubFP. reach him at SJckSchc@aol com

Sharon a. Bachman, 75, of Quakertown, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

Born on October 31, 1950, in Allentown, she was a daughter of the late Coleman and Emma (Talaber) Steirer.

A graduate of Palisades High School, she completed a few college courses before deciding to enter the workforce. She spent twenty years as a Document Technician in Air Product’s Engineering Department. Following her retirement, she began working as a Case Worker with the Salvation Army—a position she enjoyed for twenty-five years demonstrating her caring and giving nature.

She was a long-time member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Quakertown and served on the ministerium.

Sharon found great joy in family gatherings: picnics, pool parties, and attending her nieces’ and nephews’ sporting events. She was also an avid cat lover and an amateur wood worker.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a son: Philip Bachman; her grandson: Tobias Bachman Granlund; and her brother-in-law: Herbert Mackey.

Sharon will be lovingly remembered by her husband of thirty-two years: David Kresge, Sr.; daughter: Bethany Bachman (Staci Ziobert); step-son: David Kresge, Jr. (Adrianna); sister: Joan Mackey; daughter-in-law: Helen Magnuson Granlund (Andreas); and nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made—in Sharon’s memory— to Emmanuel Episcopal Church at 560 South Main Street, Quakertown, or to the Salvation Army Upper Bucks Service Unit.

~Obituaries~

man. His wife was his best friend. He adored his grandchildren and spent many hours playing with them—like he was a kid himself. There was never a question of his love, as he always made sure family left his presence with a hug and kiss goodbye, followed by an “I love you.”

He was a longtime member of Jehovah’s Witness Zion Hill Congregation.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister: Mary Ann Stull; and a brother: Warren Baringer, Jr.

Bruce will be lovingly remembered by his wife of forty-two years: Linda (Sabo) Baringer, to whom he wed in July 1983; son: Matthew Baringer (Amber); daughters: Alyssa Baringer (Evan Foss) and Vicki Cole (Chris); brother: Gary Baringer (Claudette); brother-in-law: Leon Stull; and his grandchildren: Madelyn, Levi, Alaina, Brianna, Abigail, Nathan, and Maisie, as well as nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at 3:00pm at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 2360 Trolley Bridge Road, Quakertown, PA 18951.

Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc.

Bruce B. Baringer, 72, of Quakertown, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 3, 2026, at his home.

Born on February 2, 1954, in Quakertown, he was a son of the late Warren Walter and Mary Augustine (Uczen) Baringer.

A talented machinist, Bruce spent nearly thirty years with Valley Precision. Before his retirement, he served as a ground’s person, for ten years, in the Blacktop Division at Eureka Stone Quarry.

Outside of work, he could often be found outdoors on the Saucon Rail Trail or in his yard mowing grass, crushing rock, or cutting down trees. He was mechanically inclined and enjoyed the sometimes-challenging task or repairing things around his house, vintage cars—or simply helping others.

Above all, Bruce was a loving family

marSha D. Bieler, a beloved wife, mother and grandmother, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at the age of 74. Born in Philadelphia, PA, she was the cherished daughter of the late Frank and Betty (Spring) Massey. Marsha was a graduate of Thomas McKean High School in Wilmington, DE, and she furthered her education by earning a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Delaware in 1974. This commitment to education blossomed into a fulfilling 20year career as a pre-school teacher at New Goshenhoppen UCC in East Greenville. Marsha was the devoted wife of Dennis K. Bieler, with whom she celebrated 50 years of marriage. Together, they built a warm and loving family, which was always the center of her world. Her greatest joy was being a mother to Heather and David, and in recent years, her heart expanded with love for her grandchildren, who brought her immense happiness.

A faithful woman, Marsha was a member of Providence Presbyterian Church in Quakertown, where she found peace and purpose in her involvement. She cherished her time in Bible studies and volunteered for various church activities. In her leisure time, Marsha had a passion for reading and often found solace at the Jersey Shore, a place she considered her happy retreat. The memories she created there were as cher-

ished as the time spent with her family. Marsha is survived by her beloved husband, Dennis, her loving children, Heather Burt and David Bieler (Ashley); her grandchildren, Paige, William and Grant; her brothers Mark Massey and Neal Massey (Robin); nieces, Amy, Laura and Christie; and many friends and extended family who will miss her warmth and kindness.

A funeral service was held April 18, 2026 at Providence Presbyterian Church, 2200 Krammes Rd, Quakertown, PA 18951. Interment is in New Goshenhoppen UCC Cemetery, East Greenville. Arrangements are entrusted to Mann-Slonaker Funeral Home (mannslonakerfuneralhome.com).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the Providence Presbyterian Church at the address above.

craig D. Bilger, Sr., 71, of Phoenixville and formerly of Quakertown, passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Phoenixville Hospital.

Born on March 28, 1955, in Sellersville, he was the son of the late Mervyn and Janet (Jordan) Bilger.

Following his formal education, Craig spent his working years in the automotive industry. He most recently served as a Roadman for Hatfield Auto.

Outside of work, he found joy in riding Harley motorcycles, fishing, and completing word/search puzzles.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his first wife: Barbara (Brown) Bilger, who passed away in 1997; and his son: Craig Bilger, Jr., who passed away in 2013; and a great-granddaughter: Bella.

Craig will be lovingly remembered by his wife of twenty-one years: Lorraine (Guyer) Bilger; daughter: Barbara Hoessler; step-son: Peter Wisely, Jr.; step-daughter: Lauren Wisely; sister: Denise Gouchenouer; grandchildren: Autumn Bilger, Christopher, Matthew, and Kaitlyn Hoessler; seven step-grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

A viewing will be held at the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., 821 West Broad Street, Quakertown, on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 1:00pm until the time of the funeral service—in the funeral home—at 2:00pm.

Interment will follow in Grace Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery, Hatfield.

DaviD W. BleSSing, 96, of Quakertown, passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

Born on June 13, 1929, on Carpenter St. in Milford, New Jersey, he was a son of the late William and Adaline (Williams) Blessing.

A graduate of Frenchtown High School’s Class of 1948, David entered the United States Army, serving during the Korean War.

Following his Honorable Discharge, David served a carpenter’s apprenticeship under H. J. Opdyke in Frenchtown, NJ. He then started a building business and traded as David Blessing Building Contractor, constructing his first house at 380 Mt. Pleasant Road in Milford, NJ in 1950. From there, he later organized Blessing & Erwin Builders and built Burnt Mills and Pinecrest Apartments, as well as several homes in and around Milford, NJ. Outside of work, David was very active in his profession and community. He helped organize New Jersey Home Builders North West Chapter, serving as its first President; served as a board member for Milford Building & Loan Association; served one term as a board member for Milford Board of Education; and one term on town council. Additionally, he was a licensed real estate agent, a retired firefighter from Milford

Fire Company, a member of Owners and Pilot Association, and belonged to NAUI Open Water Scuba Divers.

David was a member of St. Isidore’s Catholic Church, Quakertown, and a Past Grand Knight with the Knights of Columbus Council 4545, Fourth Degree Knight.

He found joy in using his license as a private pilot, with a commercial rating, and enjoyed fishing in Canada.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a daughter: Lori Liskowacki; brother: Walter Blessing; and sister: Betty DiMaggio.

David will be lovingly remembered by his wife of thirty-seven years: Mary (Kertesz) Blessing; sons: David Blessing, Jr. and Andrew J. Blessing (Maria); daughter: Dawn Blessing; son-in-law: Sam Liskowacki; brother: James Blessing; sister: Eileen Thorpe (Fred); grandchildren: Juliana Blessing, Rosella Blessing, Emily Wood, Jason Liskowacki, and Joshua Liskowacki; and eight great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held at St. Isidore’s Catholic Church, 2545 West Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 9:30am until 10:15am. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 am in church.

Interment will follow in Riegelsville Union Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in David’s memory to St. Isidore’s Catholic Church, via the above address, or Eternal Word Television Network, 5817 Old Leeds Road, Irondale, AL 35210. Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

roSe marie collinS, 79, of Quakertown, passed away on April 17, 2026. She was born in Sellersville on November 27, 1946 to the late Michael Cortiglia and Emma (Hoff) Cortiglia. Rose was the loving wife of Charles G. Collins for 57 years. She was known to always have a wonderful smile on her face. Rose worked at Rock Hill Mennonite as a Certified Nursing Assistant and would retire as a laundry worker there. She enjoyed country music and could always be found watching her soap operas, especially General Hospital.

Rose is survived by her husband Charles; daughters Angela Schwartz (Brian), Christine Whitebread (Joel), and Charlene Nash (Peter); 11 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; sister Marion Maute; and great granddaughter Kayanna. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

DaviD William crouthamel, 59, of Quakertown, passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at his home.

Born on August 31, 1966, he was the son of the late William and Victoria (Gawlenski) Crouthamel.

David found joy in fishing, hunting, riding motorcycles, and working on cars. He leaves behind his beloved dog and best friend, Tink.

Services will be private.

Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

mary lynn gluck, 81, of Quakertown, passed away on April 19, 2026. She was born in Allentown on September 19, 1944 to the late Linwood P. Fox and Mary (Bauman) Fox. Mary was the loving wife of the late Joseph F. Gluck Jr. for 53 years. She was a member of the Sellersville Moose, and of Trinity Lutheran Evangelical Church in Quakertown. Mary loved the beach, Powder Valley, reading,

~Obituaries~

spending time on her deck, and helping with the vegetable garden. She worked for Pantry Pride, Clemen's Market, and Giant Food Stores over the course of her life. Mary had a strong love of music, and was able to take her daughter to many of her first concerts. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

Mary is survived by her children Denise Fox (Rick) and Dennis Gluck; grandchildren Jason Fox (Megan), Melissa Teichmann (Scott), Melinda Gluck, Iris Gluck, and Piper Gluck; great grandchildren Ryan Fox, Christopher Fox, Austin Fox, Aubrey Teichmann, and Nicholas Teichmann; sister Susan Young (Perry); and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; husband Joseph; brother Michael Fox; and sister-in-law Nancy Fox.

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

holly ann gomBert, 64, of Quakertown, died on April 13, 2026, at St. Luke’s Hospital. Born in Quakertown, Holly was the daughter of the late Norman Scheuck and the late Glendora (Gower) Scheuck. She was a lifelong resident of Quakertown.

Holly graduated from Palisades High School in 1980 and was employed by Keystone Transformer Company, where she dedicated many years of hard work. She was known for her creative spirit and found joy in painting birdhouses, often sharing her creations with those she loved. Holly also had a passion for cooking and took great pleasure in preparing meals for family and friends. She especially cherished her trips to Ocean City, where she made many lasting memories with loved ones. In her free time, Holly enjoyed attending shows at Penn’s Peak alongside her husband, Alan, creating special moments together filled with music and laughter.

Holly will be dearly missed by her husband, Alan and her sister, Brenda. In addition to her parents, Holly is predeceased by her brother, Norman Schueck.

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

richarD lee groSS Jr , 72, of Allentown, passed away on April 17, 2026. He was born in Quakertown on March 7, 1954 to the late Richard Lee Gross Sr. and Dolores (Davis) Gross. Richard was the loving husband of Donna Jean (Weil) Gross for 21 years. He loved to shoot pool and going bowling. Richard thoroughly enjoyed watching NHRA racing, regularly heading to Maple Grove Raceway. He was a very dedicated worker, devoting 40+ years to US Food Services. Richard took great care of the pets he loved, including his dog Lou and cats Honeysuckle and Cleo. He was a doting and active grandfather, regularly helping with anything the kiddos needed. Richard is survived by his wife Donna; children Gina Bengier and Hector Ross (Donna); 9 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; siblings Bob Gross (Celly) and Billy Gross; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents; great grandson Kayson; and brother James Gross.

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

carol a gunn, 82, of Quakertown, passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at St. Luke’s Grandview Campus in Sellersville.

Born on July 22, 1943, in Philadelphia, she was a daughter of the late Michael and Esther (Benson) Goodz.

A graduate of Frankfurt High School, Carol found fulfillment as a homemaker. She was a member of St. Isidore’s Catholic Church, Quakertown.

In her free time, she found joy in reading on her Kindle, interior decorating, bargain shopping, bowling, visiting the shore, spending time with friends and family. She particularly enjoyed being around children and nurturing them: she spent much of her time attending her grandchildren’s’ events. She previously served as an aide at the Little Red Caboose Nursery.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a son: Edward Gunn; and her sister: Sharon Santiago.

Carol will be lovingly remembered by her husband of over sixty years: Robert Gunn; son: Joseph Gunn (Michele); daughter: Michelle Gunn (Ken); brother: Joseph Miller (Conchetta); sisters: Linda Craig and Virginia Matthews (Joseph); nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

A viewing will be held at the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., 821 West Broad Street, Quakertown, on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 6:00-8:00pm. A committal service will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 1:00pm at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, 830 Highland Road, Newtown, PA 18940. For those attending the committal service, please arrive to the cemetery no later than 12:50pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital at: 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis TN 381053678 or stjude.org/donate/.

William a. "Bill" heichel, 80, of Telford, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Friday, April 24, 2026, at St. Luke's Hospice House in Bethlehem.

Born on November 19, 1945, in Clearfield, PA, he was a son of the late Oliver Leroy and Gladys (Crowell) Heichel.

Following his formal education, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving during the Vietnam War before receiving his Honorable Discharge, and returning home. Once stateside, he joined the workforce. Bill spent twenty-seven years in maintenance at Avery Dennison in Quakertown.

Outside of work, he was a homebody: he loved to spend time at his home, and often surrounded himself with his family. He also found joy in working on cars and trucks (he frequently took care of cars for family members), watching Western movies, listening to Country music, and tinkering with various items.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by two sisters: Barbara Heichel and Theda Hockenberry; and brother-inlaw: John Daub.

Bill will be lovingly remembered by his wife of fifty-five years: Janice (Sklodowski) Heichel; son: Troy Heichel (Virginia); daughter: Susan Heichel (Ryan); brothers: Gerald Heichel (Regina) and Doug Heichel (Jackie); sister: Beverly Daub; grandchildren: Jasmin (Jeff), Brandon, and Sarah; great-grandchildren: Jaxon, Jonah, Jayce, and Jacob; and nieces and nephews.

A private service--with Military Honors--will be held at Washington Crossing Cemetery.

Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill's memory to The Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org) or the Alzheimer's Association (alzfdn.org).

BLOOM A Free Floral Design Event TOGETHER

Join us for a fun and creative morning at our facility as we host a hands-on ower arrangement workshop. Guests will enjoy working with beautiful ower while creating a stunning centerpiece to take home.

June 5 | 11:00am

At C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc.

MONUMENTS

Light refreshments will be served. Space may be limited. We look forward to seeing you there!

Locally & Family Owned & Operated

Michael B. Schmauder Andrew J. Stout Supervisor & Funeral Director President & Funeral Director

kathleen grace kelly, 78, of Hatfield, passed away on Monday, April 13, 2026, at her home.

Born on February 6, 1948, in Chestnut Hill she was the daughter of the late John T. and Minerva L. (DeGour) Kelly.

Following her formal education, Kathy joined the workforce. She held employment with Gas Springs in Colmar, then moved to a position as a Patient Services Representative in the CHOP Care Network of Central Bucks.

Outside of work, she found joy in music and dancing. As well as spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Hatfield.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister, Nancy Lynam and brothers: Ronald Woolston and George Woolston.

Kathleen will be lovingly remembered by her daughter: Shannon Rzepski (Stan); and two grandchildren: Ashley Keen and Timothy Keen.

Services will be private.

Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

Wayne allen knechel, 76, of Quakertown, passed away on April 12, 2026. He was born in Perkasie on January 8, 1950 to the late Paul and Anna (Harner) Knechel. Wayne was the loving husband of the late Mary Jane (Wenhold) Knechel for 44 years until her passing in 2012. He worked for the bulk of his life in the steel industry, and in the last few years as a janitor. Wayne was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved to watch the Eagles and Phillies and was happy to see the birds get one more Super Bowl ring before he passed. Wayne was

a great family man, and loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. Wayne is survived by his children Dwayne Knechel, Heather Schaar (Jamie), and Stacy McMain (Matthew); grandchildren Kimberly, Julia, and Stephanie; 1 great grandson on the way; siblings Patricia Gross and Janet Rinehimer; and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents; wife; and brother Donald Knechel.

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

hilton kringe, lovingly known as "Pop", passed away on April 14, 2026, at the age of 96. Born on February 18, 1930, he lived a long and meaningful life rooted in hard work, service, and simple joys. A proud veteran of the Korean War, Pop carried the values of dedication and resilience with him throughout his life. After his service, he became a master plumber with the Plumbers Local Union 690, building a career defined by skill, reliability, and pride in a job well done. He was the kind of man who could fix just about anything - a true jack of all trades whose hands were rarely still. Pop has a lifelong love for working on cars and trucks, always happiest under the hood or figuring out how things worked. He also found job in flea markets, where he could spend hours searching for hidden treasures, striking up conversations, and enjoying the thrill of the find. He was most proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy and were a lasting reflection of the life he built and the love he carried.

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

continued from page 7

catherine a. mcDermott died peacefully at home on Sunday, March 29, 2026. She was 95. Born in Abington Township, she was the wife of the late Edward C. McDermott and the daughter of the late James M. and Catherine (Mullen) Brogan of Jenkintown, where she grew up. She is survived by her sons, Joseph (Yvonne) and Gregory (Dawn); her daughter, Mary McDermott; grandchildren, Kelly McDermott Stoudt, Sean, Ryan and Brianna McDermott; and great-grandchildren, Allison and Kyle Stoudt and Braiden McDermott. She was preceded in death by sons Daniel, Dermot, and Timothy McDermott and all seven of her siblings. Affectionately known as Grandmom or G-Mom to a generation of Quakertown kids. She was always there when others needed her, whether it was just a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, an open ear, or to help with care, a ride, or babysitting. She had joy for life and helping, and her home was always open to those who needed a space. She worked as manager for The Stockroom for Men clothing store in Quakertown and later served as customer service manager at Hess’s/The Bon Ton, also in Quakertown. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

lily Jean michelfelDer, 19, of Quakertown, passed away unexpectedly in the Emergency Department at Windham Hospital in Willimantic, Connecticut.

Born on May 30, 2006, at Grandview Hospital in Sellersville, she was a daughter of Erwin D. and Susan J. (Irwin) Michelfelder, Jr.

A graduate of Quakertown High School’s Class of 2024, she was accepted to the University of Connecticut where she was currently in her sophomore year, pursing a degree in dietetics.

She was a young lady filled with joy who possessed eclectic interests. In high school, she played the flute with the school band. During her free time, she was an avid practitioner of Yoga, enjoyed art, crocheted, was a fan of KPop music, and loved attending music concerts with her best friend.

In addition to her parents, Lily will be lovingly remembered by her brother: William Michelfelder; sisters: Shannon and Maggie Michelfelder; paternal grandparents: Erwin and Roberta Michelfelder, Sr.; maternal grandparents: Bonnie Reynolds and James Irwin (Maureen); and her uncle: Jimmy Irwin.

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

mary lou Platt passed away peaceful-

ly at home, in Quakertown, on Thursday, March 19, 2026. She was 92 years old.

She is survived by her sister: Janice Geiger; her children: Carol Collins (Steve), Eric Platt (Linda), Tom Platt (Mary), Chris Carroll (Jim); grandchildren: Brett Collins (Melissa), Sean Collins (Christi), Ryan Collins (Jennifer), Kyle Platt, Christine Platt, Conner Platt, Sarah Vamvakas (Pat), John Platt, Nikki Ryan (Shawn), and Kelsey Carroll; and great-grandchildren: Kyla, Brielle, Makenna, Madelynn, Morgan, Jack, Luke, Grant, Teagan Collins, and Alek Vamvakas.

Preceding her in death is Robert Platt. Mary Lou grew up in Glenside, PA, where she developed her love for baseball and swimming. She loved the Phillies, making memories at Ocean City New Jersey, loved to sing, and brought so much joy to everyone who knew her. She was a true spitfire—always full of life, humor, and just the right amount of feisty spark that made her unforgettable. We will miss her more than words can say, but her memory will always be a song in our hearts... and she will “Always be on our minds.”

The family would like to thank St. Luke’s Hospice for their compassion and care.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make donations to Flying Fur Animal Rescue (flyingfur.org).

Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

StePhen mark "Steve" Quinn Sr., 73, of Quakertown, passed away on April 4, 2026. He was born in Philadelphia on June 26, 1952 to the late John William Quinn and Mildred Regina (Hammeke) Quinn. Steve was the loving husband of Donna Marie Anne (Weaver) Quinn for nearly 50 years. Steve was a natural salesman and always a hard worker. One of his favorite jobs was working at A-Treat. He would eventually end up owning and operating his own business, SMQ Janitorial for over 30 years. Steve loved the beach and playing pinochle. He was a great family man and was at his happiest when he was spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. Steve is survived by his wife Donna Marie, children Stephen Quinn Jr., Matthew Quinn, Catherine Messere (Justin), and Thomas Quinn; grandchildren Katelyn (Josh), Lucas, Grayson, Amelia, Theresa, and Edwin; 1 great grandson on the way; siblings John Quinn and Christine Church (Brian); sister-in-law Phyllis Quinn; and many other loving family members and friends. He is predeceased by his parents

and brothers Michael Quinn and Richard Quinn. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

irene cecelia frey Scarlett, 83, of Lansdale, Pennsylvania, died on Monday, March 23, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born in Far Rockaway, New York, Irene moved to Pennsylvania to attend Albert Einstein Medical Center School of Nursing and then went to work at Albert Einstein Hospital as a young professional. In 1962, she married the love of her life, James Warren Scarlett. The family soon made their home in Line Lexington, Pennsylvania, where they raised three children. Irene was a passionate nurse.

After 2000 she retired and dedicated herself full-time to other passions: quilting, travel, birding trips with friends, sailing adventures with Jim, and spending time with her grandchildren. After her husband's passing, Irene eventually moved back to Lansdale to be closer to family and home.

Irene took her role as an elder of the McQueen family seriously, always keeping up with her sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins, and their children and grandchildren, as well as her extended network of dear friends. She will be deeply missed by everyone, especially her children, Kelli Scarlett, Tim and Sarah Fayen Scarlett, and Shawn Scarlett, and by her beloved grandchildren, Sage, Skye, Warren, Blu, and Isaac.

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

Joanne DetWeiler Schaffer, 82, formerly of Sandpiper Drive, Bechtelsville, died on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Bethlehem North in Bethlehem, PA. She was born in Bethlehem, the daughter of the late Charles H. Detweiler and Anne (Hartigan) Detweiler.

Joanne is survived by her son of 38 years, Timothy Charles Schaffer of Bethlehem.

She was a graduate of Notre Dame High School; and later went to Bethlehem Business School.

Joanne dedicated her life to her family and friends.

Survivors: She will be lovingly remembered by her son; sister, Constance Detweiler wife of Robert Eckhart of Red Hill, P.A.; and brother-in-law, Michael Mutarelli. She will also be remembered by the South Carolina Adventurers Group; especially good friends Carol Barton and Bob Bonner.

Joanne was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald Schaffer and her sister, Eileen Detweiler.

A private graveside service will be held for family and friends.

Interment will be in Bethlehem Memorial Park, Linden Street, Bethlehem.

Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

nancy ann Schomyer, 67, of East Greenville, PA passed away on Saturday, April 11th, 2026, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Quakertown. Born in Easton, Nancy was the daughter of the late James F. Nolf and the late Lorene B. (Kenyon) Nolf. Nancy graduated from Nazareth High School. She found her greatest joy in the quiet, meaningful moments of everyday life—tending to her garden with care, baking for those she loved, and curling up with a good book. She treasured the time spent with her beloved horses, where she felt a deep sense of peace and connection. She also delighted in watching the deer wander through the yard and hummingbirds dance in the air, small moments that filled her heart with happiness.

Above all else, she loved her family deeply and cherished the time spent with them.

Nancy will be dearly missed by her husband, Larry, together they shared 26 loving years of marriage; her son, Jason Monroig; her sisters, Susan Whitney, and Jean Nolf; her brother David Nolf; along with her extended family members and friends.

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

chriStoPher “chriS” Jeffrey StumP, 41, of Quakertown, PA, unexpectedly died on March 23rd, 2026, at St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Hospital. Born in Lansdale, PA, Chris was the son of Jeffrey R. Stump and Bonnie J. Stump (Savitz).

Chris attended Pennsylvania Homeschoolers and graduated on June 29, 2002. His passion for life included his cat Derek, riding 4-wheelers and dirt bikes and spending time with his family. Chris always had a special place in his heart for all animals, mainly his cat Derek. He will be remembered for his love of his family and his quirky personality. Chris was happiest when he was spending time with his family and Derek. He loved his family deeply and cherished the time spent with them.

In addition to his parents, Chris will be dearly missed by his sister, Gerri Roethel (Savitz) and brother-in-law, Sean Roethel; his aunts and uncles, Gerry and John Earwood, Jane and David Minnick, Judie Stump, and Flo Stump; his nieces and nephews, Preston Roethel and Declan; and his cousins, Scott, Stephanie,

ACTION RECOVERY BRAIN INJURY SERVICES

~Obituaries~

Karen, Greg, Ashley, and Adam; along with his extended family members and friends. Chris is predeceased by his uncle, Gregory.

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

roDney alan SWartley, 77, of Green Lane, passed away at his home on March 24, 2026. He was born in Sellersville on July 6, 1948 to the late Austin Pross Swartley and Sara Emma (Duke) Swartley. Rodney was the loving husband of Kathleen Ann (Porter) Swartley for 51 years. He was an avid fisherman and birdwatcher, and loved being out in nature. Rodney loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Rodney is survived by his wife Kathleen; sons Matthew Alan Swartley (Natasha) and Drew Porter Swartley (Rebekah); grandchildren Nora, Wade, and Barrett; and many other loving family and friends. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

Thomas L. Trainer, 78, of Quakertown, passed away on April 20, 2026. He was born in Doylestown on August 16, 1947 to the late Elmer H. Trainer and Lena (Shadder) Trainer. He loved cars his entire life, was an active member of the Road Angels of Doylestown, and spent countless hours going to car shows. Thomas also loved going fishing. Thomas is survived by his brother Frank Trainer (Susan); his dear friend Harold Bickley (Annette); and many other loving family and friends. Services are being privately held. Arrangements by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, (nauglefcs.com).

John vincent uerkvitz, 84, of Coopersburg, PA, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

Born on March 22, 1942, in Abington, he was the son of the late John Joseph and Elsie Marie (Morelli) Uerkvitz.

A graduate of Bensalem High School’s Class of 1961, he was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He served two years overseas, then returned home in 1966, receiving an Honorable Discharge.

John began a career in early Information Technology, working as a Data Processor with a service center. He was later recruited by Bucks County Courthouse to run their mainframe computers, working his way up to the Data Processing Department Manager—a position he enjoyed until his retirement in 1998.

Outside of work, John took pleasure in a variety of interests: flounder fishing, bowling, playing on the Courthouse’s softball team until he retired, watching the Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers, enjoying sweet treats (particularly a Tastykake or Dairy Queen ice cream), spending time at Wildwood Crest with family, and traveling to warmer climates like the Bahamas or Bermuda. In his retirement, he became an avid landscaper, transforming the property around his home. Above all, though, his greatest joy was spending time with his family—coaching his daughters in softball and later hosting Movie Night with PopPop, which was always well-stocked with a range of sugary snacks.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a daughter: Cindy Atherholt, who tragically passed away on December 4, 2024.

John will be lovingly remembered by his wife of fifty-eight years: Sharon Louise (Parris) Uerkvitz, whom he was wed on June 24, 1967; daughters: Holly Palmer (Josh) and Randy Curtis (Kenny); grandchildren: Kendra, Johnathan, Noah, River, Willow, Alexa, and Cole; great-grandchildren: Landon and Owen; sister: Tina Sexton; and nieces and nephews.

Services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made—in John’s memory—to St. Luke’s Hospice.

Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.

American Legion Post 242 May 2026 Update

May is a busy month at the Post. Logistics for traffic diversion, inviting guests, ordering food, getting members to volunteer as honor guard and other participants, transportation, set-up crew and in general Volunteers. For what occasion? The Memorial Day Parade & Service. This parade remains as a standard of our community for more years than I am old and I am 82. Community is so important, especially in the occasion of honoring those who gave their all. We here in Upper Bucks County have veterans dating back to our countries fight for freedom from English rule our Revolutionary War. Yes we celebrate 250 years of our want for freedom. More people attend this parade and service each year. Even so, we still would have it to honor our fellow-armed service veterans even if we were the only attendees. That is how important this day is.

to ever be on earth!

Charlie Wismer, our Adjutant, recently sent out raffle tickets for our Veteran’s Fund expenses. He points out that each ticket holder has 101 chances for winning a cash prize.

Most of all the real winners are our fellow comrades in arms who are in need! Fill out your seven tickets and send them in.

You might be one of the 101! Charlie also mentioned that our membership is growing. We have a total of 44 new members this year and our associate groups the Women’s Group and Sons Group are doing well. We strive for 100 renewals for the year for this the largest post in our district. If you owe for dues – please send in ASAP.

The parade starts at 9:00 AM at Park Avenue, then proceeds North on 9th Street to Broad St. we then go east on Broad St. to 3rd. Street, then North to Mill Street then a short distance West on Mill Street to the War Memorial Site. We ask you to take time out once again to honor those who gave there all for YOUR freedom and ability to be a part of that 250th Anniversary of the greatest country

We urge veterans and the general public to keep an eye on our electronic sign for activities in this vibrant and active post. We are here to serve as we did in our youth in the Armed Services. On June 6th we once again have an informative get together (with food) for veteran’s benefits. Don’t forget our wonderful “Friday night Specials” Post 242 is one of the few organizations that are growing in strength and service to this community.

We Serve!

~ For God and Country, Dick Helm

What Is a Rent-Back Agreement?

If you’re buying a new home while selling the one you’re currently living in, you’ll definitely be glad to know what a rent-back agreement is.

As you might imagine, this double transaction can require some really good luck, timing wise, to get just right. After all, if you sell your home and have to move out before you’ve closed on your new home or even found a place to live, that means you’ll have to either find interim housing or pay to stay in hotel limbo. Either way, you’ll have to endure moving twice.

Not so with a rent-back agreement, which gives the sellers extra time to live in the home after closing, essentially letting them become the new buyer’s temporary tenants. It doesn’t last for long—there are usually time limits—but it will give sellers a chance to close on their new home and pack up for the big move.

For the buyer, offering a rent-back agreement can have a couple of big bonuses. For one, if it’s a competitive market, an offer that’s flexible on moveout dates might very well have an edge. And the rent that the seller would pay the buyer could help recoup those hefty closing costs.

Done right, it can benefit everyone, but there are some things to consider before you jump on board.

How a rent-back agreement works

Like the name implies, rent-back agreements are legally binding agreements made in writing between the buyer and the seller. Both parties need to decide on a couple of issues, namely how long the seller will need to stay in the house after closing and how much rent the seller will pay to be there. To figure out what rent would be fair, check out comparable homes for rent in your area.

To play it safe, the buyer may also charge a refundable deposit, just like any landlord would.

There’s always the chance that damages could occur while the seller is living

there. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a holdback deposit of anywhere between $5,000 to $10,000.

Once everyone agrees, the buyer will close on the house, at which point the buyer will officially take possession and pay any upfront costs like a normal closing. In addition, the seller will pay any security deposits or upfront rent and remain in the house.

What rent-back agreements mean for the seller

Getting more time to buy your next dream home can be a lifesaver, but don’t dawdle—a rent-back agreement won’t buy you much time.

Typically, lenders won’t accept anything longer than 60 days.

While you’re still at the property, there’s one more potential downside to deal with: It isn’t really yours anymore. You technically have a landlord now, which means if you cause any damages, you may not get your security deposit back.

What rent-back agreements mean for the buyer

If you’re not in a rush to move in, offering a rent-back agreement can help you get your dream home.

It really can make your offer stronger, but don’t take it too lightly. Since you’re the new owner (and the new landlord).

The buyer, like a landlord, is now responsible for making any repairs should, say, your water heater break. Plus, you may have to make those repairs immediately.

Buyers will also have to worry about the sellers actually moving out on time. It’s rare that they drag their feet, but it can happen. If so, you will have to go through the usual process landlords do, evict your tenants. Still, odds are all will go fine, and your sellers will be grateful they won’t have to move twice.

Sue deily iS a regular contributor to ubFP. She can be reached at homeS@Suedeily com

“The Capricious Nature of Being” Honored with Literary Titan Book Award

The Capricious Nature of Being, the debut work of fiction by author Richard Plinke, has received the Literary Titan Book Award, recognizing the collection’s sharp voice, compelling storytelling, and resonant exploration of life’s unexpected turns.

Blending intrigue and satire across 11 stories, The Capricious Nature of Being showcases Plinke’s acerbic style and lucid imagination as he transforms the seemingly ordinary into vivid, high-voltage narratives. From the short and pointed “The Train” to the long and engaging “It’s Not You, It’s Me,” each story draws readers into a dramatic and sometimes hilarious ride through the trials, tribulations, and absurdities of the human experience. These engaging tales will make you laugh and cry, and leave you wanting more.

In their review, Literary Titan praised the collection for its grounded emotional insight and character-driven impact, noting that the stories explore “the unpredictable turns life takes, and how ordinary people stumble, resist, adapt, or come undone as fate nudges them down unexpected paths.” The review highlighted Plinke’s ability to capture internal struggle with authenticity and restraint, portraying flawed, human characters in familiar settings that reveal deeper emotional terrain. The result is a collection that invites reflection without preaching, delivering moments that “quietly shift” a character’s life with surprising weight.

Plinke credits the inspiration for most of the stories to real-life experiences, often drawn from his own history or those of people he knew. “Life,” he says, is the primary source. Some stories emerged from specific sparks, including a craft influence from Stephen King’s On Writing, research conducted for a business column, and an unexpected moment that unfolded during a wedding. Yet for Plinke, the writing process remains deliberately open-ended, guided by discovery as much as design.

A consistent hallmark of the collection is its use of everyday environments as a stage for inner upheaval. Plinke emphasizes dialogue and behavior over ornate description, allowing character and drama to emerge from within. The book’s central focus is captured in its title: the capricious nature of being, and the choices that determine whether we are vanquished or survive when life turns.

The Capricious Nature of Being is available now. Readers can purchase the award-winning collection on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Search for The Capricious Nature of Being by Richard Plinke on Amazon and at Barnes and Noble to order.

Plinke will be hosting a talk and book signing at The Next Chapter Book Store, 205 N. Main Street, Sellersville on May 27 at 6 pm.

Richard Plinke is the author of five books and a longtime writer whose work has included countless articles for a range of publications, including columns in multiple business journals. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with high honors from Rutgers University, Camden College of Arts and Sciences, then built a 40-year career in advertising sales and media leadership across the United States and Canada. Over the course of his career, Plinke worked for three Fortune 100 conglomerates, founded and operated three media companies, trained sales professionals, and became a widely praised motivational speaker. He previously published three critically acclaimed books on sales in the Dragon series, as well as COVID 19: House Arrest, a humorous collection of Facebook posts written during the pandemic lockdown. The Capricious Nature of Being marks his first venture into fiction. He lives in Allentown, Pennsylvania with his wife, Terry, and their dog, Luna.

Plinke is currently at work on his next project, How to Sell the Plague, a memoir years in the making, subtitled From Woodstock to Wingtips, that traces a life shaped by reinvention, misdirection, humor, and perspective.

It’s Time to Turn the Page and Begin the Next Chapter

BY NICOLE GORDIENKO

Helen Ward dedicated 35 years of her life to the public school system as an elementary school teacher. Today, she continues to inspire the next generation as the owner of The Next Chapter Book Store in Sellersville. Shortly after retirement from teaching, her husband unfortunately passed away in 2021. This left Helen searching for something meaningful and wondering where the next chapter of her life would lead her. Helen considered the prospects of volunteering or obtaining a parttime job, but she wasn’t looking for busy work; she was looking for purpose. Helen has found her purpose through community outreach and building connections with local teachers, schools, churches, and senior centers.

Helen always loved books and dreamed of one day owning a bookstore of her own. This is when she came up with the idea to open The Next Chapter Bookstore in Sellersville. Helen recalls, “I needed this, so I just went for it.” Helen soon acquired a beautiful corner prop erty on Main Street in Sellersville. She remembered it being perfect due to the foot traffic. At the time, Helen’s daughter Jessica was volunteering at the Perkasie Public Library. Jessica’s knowledge of books combined with her background in fashion marketing made her the perfect business partner.

blogs written by both Helen and Jessica about the books they are currently reading. Jessica frequently posts book talk videos, has started a podcast, and uses her marketing background to create visually engaging advertisements. Jessica said, “with social media, you have to have a variety of what you post so it’s not just another flyer out there.” By balancing the

digital and physical space, the Wards are using every possible outlet to bring business into their store. Helen and Jessica find excitement in the idea that, “when running a business, each day will be different, and nothing can truly prepare you for that.”

Five years later, this successful female owned business is thriving. Helen said, “when we started, we knew nothing, but we learned as we went and took baby steps.” Initially they invested in furniture and shelves, but when it came to book inventory, Helen and Jessica found that it was important to stock what the people wanted. A large part of their success has been the value that they hold in community. During the Wards’ most recent visit to Pennridge High School for Women in the Workforce Day, student Olivia Medeiros was inspired by Helen when she said, “nothing has to be perfect, only during the experience will you learn the most.” Helen further stressed the importance of “being a part of your community and knowing their needs. It’s all about providing people with what they want.”

In addition to purchasing inventory, the Wards accept good condition donations.

The success of a small business in a digital world doesn’t come easy. Helen and Jessica are constantly reading and networking. They embraced the digital space in order to foster the growth and success of their business. When viewing The Next Chapter’s website, you will find

Another way the Wards are competing with larger book sellers is by hosting in-store events. Jessica creates beautiful window displays each month that highlight a particular season, holiday, or author. The Wards recently welcomed New York Times best-selling author, Jason Rekulak to their store. Jason spoke of his most popular works, Hidden Pictures, and The Last One to the Wedding. Helen and Jessica have a goal to bring in more wellknown authors to small-town Sellersville. The Next Chapter Book Store offers something for everyone whether you are visiting the physical or digital space. When visiting The Next Chapter Bookstore, you will find used books marked down to 50%, current and popular literature, $1$5 bin sales, and sale cards for frequent purchases. If you are unable to make it into the store, you must read Helen and Jessica’s book blogs on https://www. thenextchaptersellersville.com, especially if you’re unsure of what to read next. The Wards are a truly inspiring mother-daughter team who have shown their community that if you’re looking to find purpose in your next chapter, just go for it.

Follow The Next Chapter Book Store on Instagram @thenextchaptersellersville or Facebook @thenextchaptersellersvillepa

Richland Township Announces New Supervisor to Fill Vacancy

Richland Township is pleased to announce the appointment of Mason Smith to the Township Supervisor seat vacated last month by Tim Arnold. Mason brings a strong background in political science, military studies, and community public service.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue my community involvement and to serve the residents of Richland Township in this capacity,” Smith said.

A graduate of Quakertown Community High School, Mason participated in the Junior Council Person Program, where he gained hands-on experience in local government operations and council meetings, developing early civic leadership skills. “This experience uniquely positioned him to understand the responsibilities and expectations of local government service,” said Supervisor Kathie Doyle.

Mason also achieved the rank of Eagle

Scout, reflecting years of dedication to leadership and community involvement. He has also been recognized with the Young Citizens Award for Outstanding Community Service from the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce.

Mason earned a degree in Political Science from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, with minors in Military Science and International Studies. During his studies, he was awarded a U.S. Army ROTC scholarship and completed extensive coursework in international relations and public affairs. He currently serves as an officer in the U.S. Army National Guard.

“Mason has demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership and service through a variety of civic and educational programs,” said Supervisor Chris Vanelli, “He is a great addition to serve on the Board.”

Childrens Home Seeking Loving Upper Bucks Families To Become Foster Parents

Children’s Home of Easton, founded by local women in 1885, recently celebrated their 140-year anniversary. It started out as an orphanage, called the Easton Home for Friendless Children, and the original board of directors and advisors were all women. Most of the children placed at the Children’s Home at that time were homeless or orphaned and often came from County Poorhouses. Initially the counties and/ or families would pay $1 - $2 per week for the child to stay at the Children’s Home of Easton. These payments were not enough to cover the costs of the program, so donations and gifts-in-kind from the community were relied upon. Children’s Home of Easton still maintains a residential and an independent living program on campus. We also have children placed in foster homes throughout the community, but we ur-

gently need more foster families. There is a particular need in Upper Bucks County as there are not a lot of foster homes in the Upper Bucks County region. In recent years less and less people are interested in foster parenting. Many people don’t think they have the time or the room or the money. People who become foster parents earn a daily stipend for fostering children in their own home. If there are no foster homes in the local area the child comes from, then kids must be placed farther from home – far from any extended family. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent, please contact Todd Shelly, Bucks County resident & the Director of Foster Care with the Children’s Home of Easton at 610-258-2831, ext. 151 or shellyt@ thechildrenshome.org.

"We need to share responsibility. It’s easy to say, ‘It’s not my child, not my community, not my problem.’ Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider those people my heroes." - Fred Rogers

Hunting in Wyoming

Back in the later part of the 1900’s my wife and I attended a social event with our friends who live near Easton. Both of their husbands were absent as they went out to Wyoming with some hunting buddies. We kept in touch and in two years my wife and I was invited to join the hunting party. So began a long series of hunting trips for Mule Deer and one year Elk Hunting. Before that fateful day on September 11th, 2001 we were able to jockey the airline tickets so that one group would drive our Suburbanize out and the group who flew out would bring the Suburbans home. One person was named Chris and could be either male or female covering my wife’s ticket. The Suburbans had the rifles, hunting clothing, and the coolers to bring the meat home. This system of ticket exchange would not work in today’s security system but helped in our marathon driving teams not having to do two trips. After 2001 we took a longer time to drive out and days back because the same group had to drive both ways.

We stayed at two ranches owned by the Middleton family. One ranch (Deer Forks Ranch) near Douglas and Ben’s original homeland near Bill, Wyoming known as “The Grasslands” north of Douglas. Deer Forks Ranch contained a little over 5000 acres and the Grassland Ranch was about 10,000 acres. Their current home Ranch (Deer Forks) had two log cabins for people to lodge in and meals were served in the Ranch house. Out at the Grasslands they had a trailer for hunters and fed us again in the Ranch house. Except for the one Elk hunt where the rancher took us out hunting, all the hunts at Deer Forks were hunts where we went out on our own. We will always treasure these memories of “Out the door” hunts. Below, I am going to share with you a few experiences that really stood out of the over 12 hunts we went on at the ranches.

After taking a horse trail ride a day prior to our hunt through the neighbor’s property and Deer Forks; we were acquainted with the property boundaries and federal lands. So my wife and I started out on Deer Forks, hiked the slope going up through the 500 acres of State land (Land locked in Deer Forks property) and got a glimpse of the mule deer we had seen there the day before. Going down the other side and crossing in Deer Forks property we went around the next slope that looked down at a

neighboring ranch and saw movement towards the state property. The whole area was what is known as Buck Brush. (The typical low bushes about 2 to 3 feet high and round like a large ball.) We watched them and decided that I should take a shot at a certain smaller racked buck about 250 yards away with my .300 Weatherby Magnum. I sat on the only decent rock nearby and positioned myself for a clean shot. I shot and the recoil while sitting on this narrow rock found me looking up at the sky, rifle still in both hands. My wife rushed over and asked if I was OK and I exclaimed, “Did I get him!” She said that he dropped instantly.

We found him and marked a trail to the lane going back so we could retrieve him later. That year we found quite a few nice Elk antler drops.

Another memory was when our friend Tom Seifert had his son Christopher go hunting with us and Chris and I went out scouting the day before our hunt. We saw a beautiful Buck and talked about “Mr. Big” the rest of the evening. We also found a large supply of “Red Ochre” in a powder type form along a dry creek bed. This type rock was soft and readily made into a powder and used by Native Americans for Face Paint. Our love of history and imagination went wild on this find. (Later on I made a memorial of that day at this sight and then the rancher after seeing my memorial embellished the sight with a beautiful memorial as Captain Christopher Seifert was killed the evening before the 101st Airborne went into Iraq early in the 2000’s). The next day I went with my wife and Chris went with his dad on our self-guided hunts. I had a pesky buck that kept showing up within range as I went out. Chris had also seen a decent buck and harvested it. I held true to wanting to shoot “Mr. Big”, but after seeing that same buck the third time after lunch decide he was a keeper. Neither of us got a chance to harvest “Mr. Big”, but our walk along that creek bed left me with a memory that I visited every hunt after that. The “Red Ochre” discussion I had with this person who gave his all for this country we enjoy!

I will have a part 2 of this article next month (God willing) with more adventures we had at Deer Forks Ranch. dick helm iS a long time Quakertown area

Well it’s that time of the year again for me to preach, ugh, I mean,remind all of you that when taking your four legged family member for a walk to be sure to take water AND remember tht pavement is hot on our feet. Dogs sweat through our feet. When cooling your dog make sure you cool our feet and bellies. Pouring water on a humans head may work but not for us. I’m sure many of you will bring your dogs to the Arts Alive! event on May 18th in Quakertown so keep the heat on you mind. If you can buy a small pool for the yard for your pup he will be grateful. ~

Desensitization & Counterconditioning: Helping Your Dog Overcome Reactivity

Desensitization and counterconditioning are two powerful, science-based training methods that help dogs overcome fear, anxiety, and reactivity toward people, animals, sounds, or other triggers. When a dog is struggling emotionally, the goal is to retrain their automatic responses using a consistent, step-by-step plan rooted in positive reinforcement.

What Is Desensitization?

Desensitization is the gradual, controlled exposure to a trigger at a level so low that the dog does not react. Over time, the intensity is slowly increased as the dog remains calm and comfortable. This process teaches the dog that the once-scary thing is actually harmless. A dog who used to react to a noise, object, or person can learn to view that stimulus as

neutral and unimportant. Desensitization is most effective when paired with counterconditioning.

What Is Counterconditioning?

Counterconditioning changes your dog’s emotional response from negative to positive. If your dog growls, barks, or lunges at a trigger, counterconditioning helps them associate that same trigger with something wonderful—treats, toys, praise, or affection. For example, if your dog reacts to people walking past the window, pairing each sighting with high-value rewards can shift their emotional state from “danger!” to “good things happen when that appears.”

Recognizing the Real Trigger

Dogs often show subtle signs of fear long before obvious reactions occur. Lip-licking, yawning, turning away, or freezing may appear minutes before barking or lunging. Sometimes the dog

A Summer Tradition Continues: K.I.D.S. Camp Returns for Another Season of Fun

For more than 50 years, K.I.D.S. Camp has been a cherished summer tradition for families in our community, and in 2026, it is shaping up to be better than ever. What began as a small program serving just 20 children per day has grown into a vibrant summer experience welcoming over 200 campers each year. Generations of families have trusted K.I.D.S. Camp to provide a safe, active, and memorable en vironment where kids can truly enjoy their summer.

Organized by the Parks and Recreation Department, K.I.D.S. Camp is a sev en-week, all-day outdoor program de signed for children ages 7 to 12. Each day is packed with opportunities for fun, friendship, and discovery, from the mo ment campers arrive until it is time to head home.

Campers can look forward to a wide variety of activities that keep every day fresh and exciting. From arts and crafts to sports, games, and hands-on experiments, there is something for every interest. Twice a week, campers cool off with trips to the pool, a favorite highlight for many. Weekly visitors bring new experiences right to camp, and scheduled field trips give children the chance to explore beyond their usual surroundings.

friendships are formed, confidence is built, and lifelong memories are made. The dedicated staff works hard to ensure every child feels welcome, supported, and excited to come back each morning.

redirects their fear toward a housemate or another pet, making the true trigger harder to spot. Identifying the first signs of anxiety ensures training targets the correct source.

How to Begin

Start by placing the trigger far enough away that your dog notices it but does not react. Each time your dog looks at the trigger calmly, reward generously. Keep sessions short and positive. Over several days, gradually move the trigger closer. If your dog reacts, simply increase the distance again—no scolding, no pressure. The goal is calm success, not pushing through fear.

Start Small & Be Patient

Whether the trigger is a sound, smell, object, or person, begin at the lowest intensity possible: faint noise, distant person, mild scent. Progress only at your dog’s pace. Rushing the process can worsen fear. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your dog learns that the trigger predicts good things—and their confidence grows.

Submitted by marion c o neil cPdt-ka, ctdi, owner and inStructor For molaSSeS creek dog training, llc, Quakertown and trainer For runaway Farm Pet hoSPital, PennSburg She can be reached at molaSSeScreek@verizon net

Kitchen Collectibles Worth the Money

As summer approaches, families are encouraged to secure their spot in this long-standing community favorite. With its combination of outdoor fun, engaging activities, and a welcoming atmosphere, K.I.D.S. Camp continues to be the go-to

Kitchen collectibles are common and sought after for a few reasons. No one likes to toss Grandma’s favorite frying pan or Mom’s bundt cake mold because of their sentimental value. The connection between food prep and family history makes most people skittish about getting rid of any type of vintage kitchenware. I still have my mom’s mix master. It doesn’t work that well, but it has a place in my kitchen in her honor. And, she was a very good cook.

collect in 50-year cycles and items from the 1970s are all the rage with collectors now.

Kitchen items must be of high quality, by known brands, in excellent condition to command high values on the market. The internet has made everything easier to source, so collectors are now very picky about condition and quality.

days, K.I.D.S. Camp is a place where

Don’t miss out on a summer full of adventure. Registration is now open on

So, nowadays, with most valuable kitchen collectibles dating back to the 1970s or before, you can find objects that are all the rage. Look for functional objects that look back to bygone eras like electric can openers, mix masters, and blenders. Of course, manufacturer’s marks or other symbols on these objects are clear on most kitchenware items. Some manufacturers, like Corningware, FireKing, Fiestaware, Hamilton Beach, Pyrex, among others even offer online information about the history of their companies and show the corresponding marks on the objects and their dates. Always look on handles and on the underside of kitchen objects for marks.

Objects by certain kitchenware brands are more valuable than others and this typically responds to quality. Look for quality in your kitchenware pieces when collecting because like condition, quality relates to value. With the 2026 anniversary approaching, kitchenware items from 1976 Bicentennial era are increasing in value and will hit a sales peak in 2026. Collect colonial themed items now and resell them in 2025 when America celebrates its 250th anniversary.

The colors that were popular in the 1970s –avocado green, coppertone red, and harvest gold—hold their value well. Objects in these colors are all the rage in 2025 with collectors and shoppers who love to decorate with Age of Aquarius trends. Pyrex covered casseroles in certain rare patterns from the 1960s-1970s can range in value from $35-$200. The 50-year rule is in effect now as Americans

When it comes to kitchenware, mint condition is hard to come by because kitchenware is intended to be used. Most kitchenware is well used and used for many years. Damage, abrasions (scratches), and other condition issues will negatively impact value, but that is to be expected with this category of collectibles. Sets are coveted by collectors and so are vintage kitchenware sets in their original boxes. For example, casserole dishes or oven bakeware with matching lids are typically worth more than dishes missing their lids.

Some kitchen pieces bring higher values than others based on who might have used the item. For instance, I recall when my client sent me a photo of a plate with an eagle image on it. She had purchased it at a yard sale for $1. I immediately alerted her that her eagle plate was more than just a patriotic piece of china. It was part of the White House china set belonging to President Benjamin Harrison. It was worth $1,000. She received my appraisal report and sold the $1 plate to an online collector for the appraised value of $1,000.

I teach How to Sell Old Stuff for Profit class on Zoom which teaches new resellers the steps to successfully selling vintage items both online and in person. Online platforms like eBay are an option but it is only one of the outlets for reselling collectibles for a good ROI. There are many other ways to sell such items. If you’d rather sell off-line, that’s a viable option too.

Ph d art and antiQueS aPPraiSer, youtube Star with 75 million viewS on her channel www youtube com/drloriv and award-winning media PerSonality, dr lori verderame PreSentS her PoPular antiQueS aPPraiSal comedy tour nationwide. She aPPearS on netFlix, hiStory channel, and cbS & abc networkS want to know what your StuFF iS worth? viSit www drloriv com or call (888) 431-1010.

Employment Opportunities

QYBA Kicks Off 2026 Season with Lively Opening Day

Quakertown Youth Baseball Association kicked off its 2026 season in unforgettable fashion on April 11th, as the community came together for a lively and memorable Opening Day Ceremony. With excitement in the air, players, families, and fans filled the complex to celebrate the start of another great season.

A special highlight of the morning was the support from the Quakertown High School Panthers baseball team, whose presence added an extra level of inspiration for the young athletes. The crowd was also treated to a special first pitch thrown by Red from Red Robin, perfectly caught by Majors Division catcher Giuseppe Randazzo—an exciting moment that had everyone cheering.

The ceremony featured a beautiful live rendition of the National Anthem by

Nathania Sigmund, setting the tone for the day. Throughout the event, attendees enjoyed an abundance of raffle prizes and giveaways, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Picture Day was a huge success, capturing smiles and memories for players and families alike. Once the ceremony concluded, all teams took the field for their games, officially launching the season. To top it all off, players celebrated their games with a well-earned post-game popsicle treat, making for a perfect ending to a fantastic day.

QYBA’s Opening Day once again showcased the strong sense of community, tradition, and fun that makes the league so special.

Learn more about Quakertown Youth Baseball Association at qyba.ubfp.net

"Jesus told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field."

- matthew 13:24

I saw an old photo of mine recently of a small sprig of a plant that I had attempted to grow once.

Immediately, I remembered buying the "Bonsai growing kit" at Barnes & Noble, and excitedly coming home to follow the steps in order to grow a nice juniper tree. The seed sprouted and started growing, and not long after I snapped the photo I had found, I placed it on the front stoop of my old apartment for it to get some sun. I was doing everything right for this little guy that I had named "Reginald" (You should always name your favorite houseplants, in my humble opinion). He had good soil, a nice pot, was watered regularly, and now, he was getting natural sunlight.

There was one problem though: Allison. No, Allison was not another plant; she was my curious puppy who, upon returning from a successful potty, decided that Reginald looked delicious. Ally ate Reginald. She was excited for the nice little snack, but I was upset because I had been excited to see what I had planted growing up.

And there's a lesson there.

Sometimes what we plant into our world,

our families, or our community, will start to sprout, but then be snatched away. We will not always see the fruit of our labor. We will not always be the ones to harvest what we have planted. So do we keep planting seeds, or give up?

Preparing and preaching a sermon is a very challenging thing; at least if you take it as seriously as any good pastor would. When I am preparing my sermon, I spend time in prayer, I read the scriptures over and over, I read a few explanations of the text called commentaries, I sketch out possible directions that the sermon could go, and finally, I start writing. But through it all, I ask myself "Is this faithful to the scriptures? Is this Christ-centered? Is this preaching the Gospel? What does my flock need to hear right now?".

I would love it if every sermon met every person right where they needed to be met, but how a sermon might reach someone is above my pay grade. That's the role of the Holy Spirit. So to remove that need to see the growth from the seeds that I have scattered, I have learned to pray for God to use the sermon to just reach those it is called to reach. I do not have to see the harvest, as much as I'd like to...I just have to faithfully plant seeds.

Parents center their whole lives around their children. They teach them how to walk, how to talk, how to use the toilet, how to ride a bike, and they also teach them about what is good, what is dangerous, and

Christian parents teach their children about the love of Jesus. But a terribly difficult thing is when you do not see growth happening when you expect it, or when you don't know if the lessons you taught them took root. But parents are not called to be focused on the harvest...they are called to plant seeds. To keep planting seeds. In our community, we are all called to plant seeds. Christians are called to plant the seeds of faith through words and actions, and I am sure that all of us want to plant seeds of love, joy, peace, patience,

kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control within our community as we are led by the Holy Spirit. But sometimes, things will come around and seem to snatch away what we have planted. At times, it will seem like nothing is taking root at all. But we are not called to always see the fruit of our labor...we are simply called to keep planting seeds.

May you plant the seeds of our faith wherever you may go.

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 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 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 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 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 215-536-3040 emmanuelchurch11@yahoo.com www.emmanuelquakertown.org

Sunday service at 10am, Visitors and new members always welcome! Faith Covenant Church 109 S. West End Blvd., Quakertown 215-538-7777

info@fccqtpa.org www.fccqtpa.org

Senior Pastor: Barry Slimm Friendly, Exciting, Powerful. The way church should be. Join us Sundays 10 amFirst United Church of Christ 151 S. Fourth Street, Quakertown 215-536-4447

info@firstUCC.net www.firstUCC.net

Senior Pastor: Rev. Jon C. Bauman

Sunday worship 9:15 am. Sunday School Classes for all ages at 10:30 am. 2nd Saturday Free Community Lunch Pickup 9:00 am. 3rd Thursday Free Community Supper 5:30 pm

Good News Church 424 Juniper Street, Quakertown 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 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 267-373-9115

Pastor: Derrick Thompson www.juniperstreetbiblechurch.org

Worship Sunday 10 am; also live on Facebook recorded to watch on Youtube. Bible study Tuesday 6 pm. We pray you will join us in worship and study.

Morning Star Fellowship 429 S. 9th Street, Quakertown 215-529-6422

Pastors: John & Theresa Decker www.mstarqtown.org

Sunday Services at 9 am and 11 am. Biblically based teaching. Ministry for all ages and stages of life. Student Ministry Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. Free Community Meal Mondays at 5:15 pm. Quakertown United Methodist Church 1875 Freier Road, Quakertown 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.

RCCG New Life Chapel 450 S. West End Blvd., Quakertown (732) 491-1914

pastor@rccgquakertown.com www.rccgquakertown.com

Pastor: Kayode Oluyemi

Are you looking for the transformative experience through worship and the undiluted inspired word of God? Come to New Life Chapel Sunday at 10am & Tuesday at 7pm.

Richland Friends Meeting 206 S. Main Street, Quakertown (215) 538-7555

clerk@richlandquakers.org www.Richlandquakers.org

Join us Sundays at 10:30am

St. John’s Lutheran Church 4 South Main Street, Richlandto 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 (GPS Quakertown 18951) 215-536-0734

stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org

Bridge Pastor: R. Bruce Todd 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 Evangelical Lutheran Church - Ridge Valley 910 Allentown Road, Sellersville 215-257-9643

stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com www.stjohnridgevalley.com

Pastor: Rev. Lauren Bruno

Traditional Worship Service at 9:30 AM (communion w/ gluten free wafers and grape juice available) Dinner Church at 5:00 PM (communion available) in our Fellowship Hall. Handicapped accessible. All are invited and welcome to share the joy!

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Applebachsville 849 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 215-257-7268

secretary@stpaulsucc.net www.stpaulsucc.net

Pastor: Rev. Dr. Steven Simpson Sunday Worship 10:15 in Sanctuary St. Peter's Tohickon United Church of Christ 1071 Old Bethlehem Pike, Perkasie 215-257-4633 admin@stpeterstohickonucc.org www.stpeterstohickonucc.org

Pastor: Stephen Hamilton

An Open and Affirming Congregation. Sunday Services 11am. July and August services outdoors at 9:30am alternating weekly with St. Luke's UCC, Ottsville. Springfield Bible Church 1905 Pleasant View Road, Coopersburg 267-999-1404

Pastor: Brent Briggs www.springfieldmennonite.org

Join us at 10:15 am Sunday Mornings for a Blended Worship Service, Multigenerational,lovingcongregation.Biblically and Doctrinally Sound.

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

Pastor: Rev. Rachel Scheible 10:15 am Service, Handicap accessible, Family Friendly, Dynamic Music Ministry, Living God’s Love for All ~ ~ ~

Contact us at lisa@ubfp.org to learn about how your Church can be included in our Places of Worship Directory!

BY RAY FOX '66

QCHS Alumni Spotlight : WW II Update and Alumni Association Activities

This month’s article will again include and addition to the WW II Veteran list. To add local members of the military who served during WW II, please contact me at rdefox@msn.com. With the addition of Kermit Funk to the list, the current total is 802 veterans who served during the War.

Kermit later served as Commander of the American Legion Post 242 here in Quakertown and coached Little League and Connie Mack Baseball. I have recently found that several of the WW II Veterans later served as commanders at the American Legion. This reminds me of Tom Brokaw’s book, “The Greatest Generation.” A great read if you have never read it.

Recent Alumni Association Activity Bingo Fundraiser

The QCHS held its annual fund raiser on March 8, 2026. The event was a designer bag and gift card bingo and was held at Benner Hall in Richlandtown. An extremely important activity of the Alumni Association is providing scholarships for graduating seniors from QCHS each year. We have been able to do this for many years and have now given scholarships worth $85,000 over that time. Information about how to donate to this cause is included at the bottom of these articles every month. This event this year was remarkably successful and will enable

us to give eight new $1,500 scholarships this year. Applicants must be seniors at high school and can apply through the guidance office. This year’s application process is complete and interviews will be conducted by Alumni Association Board Members before the end of April. Each year we find that there are many qualified and outstanding applicants. The scholarships will be given in early June.

We also would like to thank our sponsors for the Bingo Fundraiser and will include them here:

a’latte café, American Heritage Credit Union, Anonymous, Applebees, Awckland’s Sugar Shack and Apiary, LLC, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Bracalente Manufacturing Group, Brick Tavern, Captain Bob’s Seafood, Casa Toro Mexican Bar & Grill, Citna Produce, Class of 1965, Jordan Cox, Pam Dietz, Earl Bowl Lanes, the Farm Bakery & Events, Dense, Ray, & Emily Fox, Fox Hollow Golf Course, Frederick’s Downtown Market, Free Press Graphics, Gantner Construction, Giant Food Store on West Broad Street, Giant Food Store on S. West End Blvd, Giovani’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant, Golden Scissors, Carol Harte Klaus, Stephanie Henderson, Pete Jarrett, Gary & Ruth Kirkner, Lashes by Lindsey, LLC, Magic Mirror Salon, Maye Dental Associates, Mercantino

Italiano, ORE Rentals, Park’s Car Wash, The Piper Tavern, Jackie Prestoy, Jane Price, Putt U, QNB, QCHS Football Booster Club, Quakertown Veterinary Clinic, Reading Phillies, Response Electric, Vickie and Fred Richter, Rita’s Italian Ice & Custard, Melea & Lynn Rupert, St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Hospital, Sal’s Pizza Ronda, Soul & Spoon – Jessica Parker, Spor’s General Store, Star Cadillac, Tractor Supply Company, Upper Bucks Free Press, Michael Walsh, Warehouse Battery Outlet, Washington House, Kelly Wenhold, Yum Yum Donuts QCHS Alumni Association

Annual Meeting June 6, 2026 • 10 AM Quakertown Community High School Cafeteria

The Alumni Association Annual Meeting is held on the first Saturday in June every year. The event takes place at the high school and begins at 10 am. The meeting is open to the public and all QCHS graduates are encouraged to attend and are entitled to vote during the business meeting. The business meeting is held first and is followed by an awards ceremony. The awards given at the meeting include the Alumni Association Scholarships, mentioned earlier in this article. Another award is an honorary QCHS Diploma awarded to a person who has exhibited exemplary service in the school district

and/or community. Nominations for this award come from the QCHS Alumni Board of Directors. The nominee must be someone who graduated from a high school other than QCHS.

The other awards are for induction into the QCHS Wall of Fame. This is coordinated by the school district and information can be found on the District website at qcsd.org.

Alumni Association Mission Statement and Contact Information

The Quakertown Community High School Alumni Association has been established to preserve the values and traditions of the Quakertown Community School District. And to generate an active interest among all alumni with pride in the heritage of our alma mater.

Please check out our Facebook Pages “Quakertown High School Alumni Association” and the Alumni pages of the QCSD.org website for more information. We are a 501(C)3 organization and always welcome any contributions toward our scholarship endeavors. If you are interested in donating, please email qchsalumniboard@gmail.com and you will receive instructions on how to do so or if you want to help in any way or make suggestions for the Board to consider. Comments and ideas for future articles can be sent to Ray Fox at rdefox@msn.com.

“Enter to Learn; Leave to Serve.”

Dr. Randy Bimes Honored for 27 Years of Service to Last Chance Ranch

Local animal rescue Last Chance Ranch honored Dr. Randy Bimes, DVM at their annual Tails & Ties Rescue Gala. LCR Executive Director Jackie Burke remarked, “ Last Chance Ranch has been working with Dr. Bimes for 27 years, ensuring the animals at our facility receive proper care”. She noted that Dr. Bimes has been pivotal in setting up partnerships between veterinarians and the rescue. Last Chance Ranch raised $106,000 at the annual fundraiser gala. Learn more about Last Chance Ranch, their mission, programs, and how you can donate at LastChanceRanch.org

From competitive athletes to everyday adventurers, you deserve orthopedic care powered by the nation’s #1 health network for quality, safety and patient experience.

At St. Luke’s Orthopedic Care, our experts provide innovative, patientcentered treatment for bones, joints, muscles and movement, supported by the latest technology and evidence-based practices. From nonsurgical approaches to minimally invasive procedures that get you home the same day, we help you heal quickly and safely so you can stay active and keep chasing your goals.

We’re dedicated to restoring strength, preserving mobility and helping you return to what you love confidently, capable and ready for what’s next.

St. Luke’s Orthopedic Care. Start here. Go farther. Schedule online at sluhn.org/ortho or call 484‑526‑1735.

Quakertown BPW Club Showcases Local 'Rising Star'

On March 12, the Quakertown Business and Professional Women’s Club held “an Unhappy Hour” at the Trolley Barn, on Broad Street located in Quakertown. This pay equality event was to share the disparity of the income a woman receives to a man’s income. This year the National “Equality Day” was held on March 26. The BPW members greeted community friends and shared the “Unhappy Hour” story but at the same time they were in search of a “Rising Star” from the Quakertown Community. Individuals from the Quakertown area were asked to submit their application to the committee chair, Crystal Smith. They were searching for a woman who supports other women in the Quakertown Community.

The “Rising Star” was announced at the March 25 club meeting which was held at Brick Tavern Inn on Old Bethlehem Pike. Kristin Randazzo, owner of Mercatino Italiano and co-owner of the new Insieme Event Venue, Quakertown

received the recognition. She has shown dedication with empowering women in her business as well as to helping women in the Quakertown Community. President Melissa Wieand and Committee Chair Crystal Smith presented Kristin Randazzo with a $500 check to use toward a charity of her choice.

The program also had Judge Rea Boylan, distinguished Senior Judge on the Bucks County Court of Common Pleas in Pennsylvania, share an informative presentation on her work on the bench. Known for her 20-year tenure, she has played a key role in establishing the county's Drug Court in 2010 and has focused heavily on juvenile court, treatment, and recovery-based justice.

Wish to attend the Quakertown BPW meeting or receive information, please call Nancy at 215-679-6687.

“What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals.” - Zig Ziglar

Don’t Go At It Alone Why Every Executor Needs an Experienced Probate Attorney

BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ.

Being named executor is an honor—but it also comes with real legal responsibility.

In Pennsylvania, estate administration involves strict rules, tight deadlines, and potential personal liability. Trying to handle it alone can quickly become overwhelming.

An executor’s job goes far beyond paperwork. Among other things, you’re expected to:

• Open the estate with Register of Wills

• Identify and value assets

• Collect any assets not held in decedent’s possession at their time of death

• Correspond with beneficiaries and creditors

• Pay debts and expenses

• File inheritance tax returns

• Maintain an accurate accounting of the entire estate administration to distribute to beneficiaries and potentially the court

• Liquidate and Distribute assets correctly Each step must be done properly— or the executor can be held personally responsible.

Pennsylvania Probate Has Its Own Rules

PA probate isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Executors must navigate:

• A 9-month deadline for inheritance tax returns

• Discounts for early tax payment

• Complex treatment of jointly held assets

• Specific notice requirements

Even straightforward estates can become complicated fast.

Protect Yourself from Liability

Executors have a fiduciary duty to all beneficiaries and creditors. Mistakes like paying beneficiaries too early, mishandling taxes, or missing creditor claims can lead to personal liability and

financial exposure.

An experienced probate attorney helps ensure you get it right the first time.

Save Time and Reduce Stress

A probate attorney can handle filings, paperwork, and communication—keeping the process efficient and on track. That means fewer delays, fewer headaches, and less guesswork.

Help with Family Tensions

Even well-intentioned families can run into conflict. The old adage “money brings out the worst in people” often rings true in estate matters. An attorney provides neutral guidance, helps interpret the Will, and can defuse disputes before they escalate.

Get the Tax Side Right Pennsylvania inheritance tax rules are nuanced. A probate attorney can:

• Ensure accurate filings

• Maximize available discounts

• Coordinate with accountants when needed

The Cost Isn’t Out-of-Pocket

In most cases, attorney’s fees are paid by the estate—not the executor personally— making professional guidance a practical choice.

Bottom Line

Serving as executor is a serious job with real risks. Hiring an experienced Pennsylvania probate attorney isn’t just helpful—it’s one of the smartest ways to protect yourself, keep the process smooth, and ensure the estate is handled correctly.

robert

2026 Toyota Corolla

If you’re in the market for an economical compact sedan that’s priced less than $30K, take a good look at Toyota’s Corolla, always a top seller for 12 model years.

Corolla is offered in LE, SE, XSE and Hybrid in LE, LE AWD, SE and XLE. We were privileged to test the non-hybrid top-line and sporty XSE.

This annual favorite has classy styling lines with a chiseled front facia and a rear with dual single stack exhausts, a racy trunk lip spoiler that all add for a sporty look.

classy exterior follows through to Corolla XSE’s interior with its sporty SofTex trimmed seats, brushed aluminum type trim, 10.5-inch infotainment display for the JBL audio system and it’s set in a swoopy dash that encloses the HVAC control panel whose controls are large and easy to use and view. It’s partnered with a 12.3-inch gauge cluster with integrated driver information display for alerts, features, functions and drive mode selections.

Corolla’s console houses the gear selector for the CVT transmission that’s supplemented with paddle shifters. In front of it, there’s a toggle switch for Normal, Eco and Sport driving modes, the latter holds shift points a bit longer and offers livelier acceleration. Included too is a wireless phone charger.

The heated front seats are supportive and comfy. Ditto for the rear seats that have a low transaxle hump so three youngsters can be seated there. Leg room is decent provided the fronts aren’t racked well rearward. The rear doors, however, could open a bit wider for easier ingress/ egress.

Back in the trunk, which is on the small size, it’s rated at 13.1 cubic feet for 40

inches of loading depth. Unfortunately, the rear seat-backs don’t fold that could expand trunk space if they did. The trunks’ underfloor houses a hard foam bin to hold the car jack and jack tools.

Corolla XSE gets its grunt from a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that generates 169-hp and 151-lb/ft of torque for EPA mileage estimates of an impressive 31 city, 38-highway mpg. To better those numbers, the hybrid Corolla offers 53 city, 46-highway mpg. As powered and when coupled to the CVT automatic transmission, acceleration is linear in fashion although Sport mode adds some extra spunk.

Driving the Corolla is a pleasure in that it parks easily with its tight 35.6 curb-curb turning circle and its sporty suspension keeps it planted in sharp turns. It rides smoothly over all road surfaces on Michelin 18-inch tires. Tar strips and unimproved railroad crossings are mere blips.

Price wise, Corolla is one of the most affordable compact sedans on the market. Opt for the LE and it starts at $22,725. The SE prices in at $25,165 while the XSE tested came with a base price of $28,440 before adding the following; JBL Premium Audio w/subwoofer and amplifier ($600); Black Roof ($500); and carpeted mat package ($309) that took the bottom line to $31,644 with delivery. For that price, XSE came with a host of safety features such as Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 w/Pre-Collision, rear cross traffic alert, Star Safety System and more.

Corolla also comes with a three year/36K mile bumper-bumper warranty, a five year/60K mile powertrain and two years free scheduled maintenance coverage.

As a daily driver and with impressive mileage estimates, it’s understandable why Corolla has been a continued top selling compact sedan with Toyota quality..

nick hromiak iS an automotive enthuSiaSt and Freelance writer he can be reached at nhromiak@verizon net

Are You Ready for Your Portfolio

Interest in making an impact with one’s investments has grown in recent years, which means many investors may have an increased interest in environmentally or socially focused investments as well.

In fact, impact investments account for $1.164 trillion of managed investments worldwide, with 37% held in North America. Curious to learn more about impact investing? Read on.1

What Are Impact Investments?

Impact investments are made with a measurable or tangible goal for social change in mind. From there, the criteria may differ depending on your own values and focuses. For example, you may choose to invest in a company that commits to planting a certain number of trees per year or another organization that provides resources to school districts in low-income communities.

You may hear other phrases used in conjunction with impact investing, such as socially responsible investing (SRI) or environmental, social, and governance investing (ESG). These investment models follow more specific criteria and guidelines such as ethical business practices, environmental conservation, and local community impact.2

Impact Investments, SRI and ESG investments have certain risks based on the fact that the criteria exclude securities of certain issuers for non-financial reasons and, therefore, investors may forgo some market opportunities and the universe of investments available will be smaller.

Setting Expectations

Making a difference in the world is only

one consideration with impact investing. In a recent survey of impact investors, 88% indicated that the financial performance of their investments was either in line with or outperformed their expectations.3

Tips For Impact Investing

Here are a few concepts to keep in mind with Impact Investing:

Your values: What specific areas of impact are you hoping to make with your investments? Are you focused on sustainability, social justice, your religion, or another area? Deciding what you’re looking to accomplish can help narrow your focus.

Types of investments: There are a variety of investments that are structured to help pursue your goals when it comes to Impact Investing. As you define your values, the types of investments may become clearer.

Impact reports: Impact reports are designed to provide information that breaks down how the company is making a difference and what measurable goals they’re following. Impact reports are one factor to consider as you evaluate opportunities. Impact investing can help keep your investment aligned with your personal beliefs. As you consider whether this choice may be appropriate for you, don’t hesitate to reach out. We may be able to provide some information or identify some resources that you may find insightful.

1. TheGIIN.orG, 2023

2. INvesTopedIa com, march 23, 2023

3. TheGIIN.orG, JuNe 27, 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

Ponderings by Palma

BY PALMA MOYER, RN

Think Local. Serve Local. Be Local.

A big thank you to Omar and Johns Plain & Fancy for helping to make April 1st an evening of fun and enjoyment. It was the senior spring fling ,giving all a chance to relax and forget the stress and cares of the day. I did not know Quakertown had so much talent. Americas got talent , watch out ! Quakertown might be your next competition. Many young people also came they relaxed ate , and joined in the dancing and singing. I was impressed by

the group when all gathered together to sing America the beautiful, the last verse struck a note with me when it came to-"God shed his grace on thee, and crown His good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea." Brotherhood stood out because we are all belong to the human family and should treat our fellow humans with dignity and compassion, not only the ones who look and think like us. Yes, God Bless America and the brotherhood of all. Best wishes for a good life for all.

~ Sincerely Palma Moyer RN, TUH class 1957

Palma enJoyS hearing From you reach her at donthelPmemoyer@aol com

Pennridge School District Hosts Two Day Marine Corps 250th Anniversary Celebration and Career Experience

Pennridge High School proudly hosted a two-day, immersive celebration on April 22 and April 23, 2026, in partnership with the United States Marine Corps, commemorating the 250th anniversary of both the Marine Corps and the United States. The event combined music education, career exploration, and large-scale interactive experiences, leaving a lasting impact on students and the community.

The celebration began on April 22 with a unique musical collaboration between Pennridge student musicians and members of the 1st Marine Corps District Marine Band Command, including Gunnery Sergeant Joshua Malone, Sergeant Anthony Russo, Sergeant Darlin Moran, and Corporal Ella Chirico.

Marine musicians worked directly with Pennridge’s jazz ensemble, guiding students through improvisational solos during a performance of Stevie Wonder’s

conducted while Marine musicians performed alongside students in preparation for their upcoming Spring Concert on May 13.

In addition to performing, the Marines shared personal experiences about traveling the world, collaborating with musicians across cultures, and continuing to grow as artists through their service—providing students with a powerful perspective on music, discipline, and global connection.

On April 23, Pennridge High School hosted the main event, a campus-wide celebration and career exploration experience that engaged much of the student body.

The day featured a dynamic combination of Marine Corps demonstrations and the school’s annual Career Fair, which included more than 100 vendor exhibits representing a wide range of industries.

Students participated in hands-on activities, including an official Marine flight

students got quite a workout in a virtual hand-to-hand combat and physical fitness challenges led by Marine drill instructors, highlighted by a Combat Fitness Test and spirit competition. The Marine Corps also showcased heavy equipment and the support crew that maintains those vehicles, giving students insight into logistics, engineering, and operational support roles.

Throughout the day, students explored career pathways and college courses with several enlisted officers in the High School Library. They talked about careers in the medical fields, STEM, engineering, law enforcement, legal careers, and skilled trades, alongside opportunities presented through military service and beyond.

reinforcing the importance of hands-on, real-world learning opportunities.

A special moment during the day included a flag display and recognition of local veterans and Pennridge alumni, honoring their service and connection to the community.

The event concluded with a powerful and memorable two-helicopter flyover, as a large portion of the Pennridge High School student body gathered outside to witness the moment—bringing the twoday celebration to an inspiring close.

“This event connected students with real-world opportunities in a hands-on, meaningful way,” organizers shared. “It’s about helping students see the full range of possibilities after graduation.”

The Pennridge School District extends its sincere thanks to the United States

laboration with Pennridge High School’s Physical Education classes, more than 300

According to coverage of the event, the experience had a meaningful impact on students. One PHS Senior participant noted, “It really broadens their perspectives on what they can do after high school.”

The event provided students with what organizers described as “a closer look at both military and civilian career paths,”

Waiting on a Train

Sitting on a train in France as I write this…a Christmas present trip for Shelli.

I started writing a song the other day. A few verses may be interspersed here.

The French hate Americans! I was told before leaving the U.S. We found that could not be further from the truth, as everyone has been warm and welcoming, from taxi drivers, to waiters and hotel staff, and everyday people on the street.

And you don’t have to tip here!

“Woke up this morning

In another country

People talk kind of funny

Though they sort of look like me

I walked around town

Someone poured me a coffee

Didn’t have to tip ‘em

And then they smiled at me”

Yes, everyone has been incredibly friendly, kind, and helpful.

And yes, you don’t tip here.

While the Strait of Hormuz blockade goes on, with bullets, bombs, and missiles in the air, and innocent people killed for a war that shouldn’t exist, I am able to escape the terrible, depressing stories and savageness for a while.

Until the reminders find me.

in Paris on our way to Beaune. The darkhaired young man who took my order was fun and friendly. Oh yes, and Iranian. Not a threat to anyone. Simply someone working and enjoying people. I told him I was American and apologized.

Today in Lyon, we accidentally took the wrong train. A young woman began helping us. She got off with us at the next stop, helped us to purchase our tickets to return to Lyon to grab another train to our destination. She then walked us to the platform for our train.

We could not have done any of this without her friendly and helpful ways. We don’t speak French. Not many people would have done that. Oh yes, she was an Iranian here as well. Here to study law. We told her we were Americans and apologized.

We found it to be a wonderful place where citizens could say they were proud of their country and each other.

“The government takes care of the people And the people take care of each other It’s a story of love

Most politicians don’t know

They don’t hate and the people are kind They don’t steal and the people ain’t blind I can tell that I’m blowing your mind… And you don’t have to tip me.”

John Schaninger