In this encore episode, I enjoyed learning from Cindy and Jeff Karver, the founders, just how Boyertown's Oktoberfest got its start. Spurred by a challenge from community leader Charles Haddad, Jeff and Cindy initiated the community's popular and successful event that not only survived the first year's economic downturn, chaired it for five years and have watched it grow bigger and better each successive year. Having just celebrated its 17th year, the festival has a bright future and promises more fun for all.

I asked Vicki Kriczky about a community currently under construction, slated to open February 2026, called The Residence of Boyertown. Vicki explained that The Residence is a community of 126 apartments offering continuing care for folks 55 and older: 54 one -or two-bedroom apartments designated for independent living; 50 to offer personal care, and 22 devoted to memory care. But, more than just a living space, there are restaurants, bistros, a beauty shop, movie theatre—even a stage—planned to provide opportunities for seniors to live a life filled with joy, to create a new chapter of life filled with fun, new friends, a new “family.” It’s her passion—helping senior citizens for over 30 years live their best lives. Reach Vicki for more details 484-534-2720 and to attend an information session and eventually a tour.  

Michele Barrett and Diane Hallman are two mothers who have been given extraordinary challenges raising children whose gifts include diagnoses of ADHD, AUDDHD, and autism. Today, recognizing the unique needs of children on the spectrum—particularly those on what they term the “autism cliff”—and eager to help them smoothly transition from secondary educational placements to college and beyond--they are creating a residential transition program called Pathways to Purpose. The program is different than other programs in its approach to empower high-masking, neurodivergent young adults (18-26) in Pennsylvania—who are typically overlooked and “assumed fine”--with skills, support, and structure before burnout and other mental and physical health issues develop. Joining them on the episode is Nicholas Myers, Michele’s son, who gives voice to the need for such a program. They are inviting help in establishing a steering committee to develop the program—financial advisors, counselors, educators--and they welcome you to connect with them: [email protected], [email protected].

Dr. John Lignelli, Oral Surgeon, takes us on his journey from his boyhood goal to follow in his father's footsteps to his successful practice in the hometown he loves. Listening with care to his patients' concerns, willing and available when trauma occurs, John brings exceptional skill and attention when needed most.

I had to know: Captain Beefheart? Decal-licking? Who? What? Why? Plus, I needed to catch up with John after 4,000 published poems and 44 published books. The latest: Captain Beefheart Never Licked My Decals Off, Baby. John calls it a memoir; its message describing "real" artists resonates. We had a good time--as usual in our 7th episode.

Quilts--for those who need, for those who celebrate, for funding future projects—are created by a group of women of the former Boyertown Mennonite Church, now also the home of the 2/42 Community Church. Edith Freed and Gerry Grabias shared a bit of history of the church and the dozens of women who meet bi-weekly as a group...and in-between on their own, their involvement over the years, their knowledge of the art, and their shared mission to serve others, donate to those in need, and enjoy the bonds that evolve from working together.

Artist & teacher Beth Wagner had a vision to establish a fine art gallery and teaching studio in her community but found that dream beyond her own reach as full-time teacher and mother. The seeds of her dream blossomed however; Studio B Fine Art Gallery was established and continues to offer art & culture to the community. Now retired from teaching, Beth reflects on her career, her own art, her involvement in the Bear Fever community art project, and her future plans in her new home and community.

When Maddie Bowman saw a need to assist in creating (finally-- after 20 years) a Facebook page for Boyertown's community art project Bear Fever, she made herself immediately available. Her skills have resulted in attracting hundreds of followers within days. Bear Fever fans are grateful as are the many others she serves as volunteer in American Legion's baseball world and in her social work for Montgomery County.

Erin Wade, artist for "Chip T," sponsored by Harry's Tattoo Parlor and Bear Fever, knew early on she wanted to spend her life doing art and helping people in some way. And so, today, she's fulfilling her mission as an art teacher in a private school setting, teaching kindergarten and watching those same kids she knew as kindergartens graduate from high school. "Chip T"--a name for the community working together--has an unlikely origin story and has probably been the most impressive surprise, in artistic "merit," when he finally appeared. It was a "wow" moment!

"Coach Jena is a coordinator for the Healthy Kid's running series in Boyertown which has grown to be THE largest running series in the country! In addition, Jena and her husband Jeff have owned Bear's Den Fitness for three years, but the untold story is her role with the foreign exchange program "Academic Year in America" (AYA) that  Jena and her father have been with AYA for more than 30 years, hosting dozens of the students themselves over the years and coordinating placements for dozens more. They understand the importance of creating empathy through experience and making our world a little bit smaller, by bringing people together." ~Amy Muzopappa