Many women have contributed so much to their communities and receive local recognition and thanks for their work.  But to be nationally recognized is quite an

Founded in 1890, the General Federation of Women's Clubs made the Outstanding Young Women's selection based on distinguished achievement in civic and professional activities. Guidelines for selection included unselfish service to  others, charitable activities,community service, professional excellence, business advancement, and civic and professional recognitions.

accomplishment.  Two locals achieved that back in 1966 when they were listed in the 1966 edition of "Outstanding Young Women of America."

            The announcement was made by Mrs. Dexter Otis Arnold, then Honorary President of the General Federation of Women's Clubs, who was serving as the chairperson of the Board of advisory editors for the 1966 publication.  Eva Adams, director of the United States Mint, said "the women included in the 1966 edition are marked for recognition because they shunned mediocrity."

            Some people just join organizations so they can hold a membership or title.  These folks worked for the community and earned every accolade they got.

            While the work of both women continued long after this notoriety, a look at their early 1960's accomplishments that led up to it, 55 years ago, is remarkable.

            Loretta Baver, married to Gordon Baver, was raising three children; Bruce, Melissa, and David. 

            She received her RN degree from the former Hahnemann Hospital in Philadelphia and worked as a nurse at St. Lawrence Hospital in Connecticut (1954-55) and Pottstown Hospital (1955-1958).  In 1966 she was serving as secretary-treasurer of her husband's local construction company, Gordon Baver Inc.

            She was also serving as a Cub Scout Den Mother and working actively with the

Among her many community roles, Loretta Baver was an active worker for the American Cancer Society, serving as chairperson of District 16.  She received Outstanding Service Awards from the organization in 1963, 1965, and 1966

American Cancer Society.  She was serving as chairperson of District 16, a post she held since 1963).  She received Outstanding Service Awards from the organization in 1963, 1965, and 1966.  She was also a solicitor for the American Red Cross in 1963 to 1965 and served as a Heart Fund Captain since 1961.

            A member of the Parent-Teachers Association, she was a board member in 1962-1963; served as East Greenville Representative, 1962-1963; and was elected third-vice-president in 1965 and 1966.

            She was a member of the Upper Perkiomen Valley Jaycee Wives since 1955; named a director in 1957; vice-president, 1960; president in 1961; and board member in 1962 and 1963.  She was the recipient of the Outstanding Jaycee Wife Award for 1963-1964.

            Also active in St Paul's Lutheran Church in Upper Hanover Township, she joined the Lutheran Church Women in 1960 and was co-chairperson of the Christian Action Committee for 1967.  She was in charge of the East Greenville Cradle Roll and served as a Sunday School Teacher since 1959.  She was also serving as a Vacation Bible School Teacher since 1965.

            Whew!  We're not finished.

            Rev. Dr. Martha Kriebel, the second woman honored in 1966 by the "Outstanding Young Women of America" publication was another doer in the community.

            At the time of her naming, she was married to Howard Kriebel and had a son, Jonathan, and was serving as the Pastor of Palm Schwenkfelder Church - a post she

In 1965. Rev. Martha Kriebel, became the first woman to earn a degree from The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia - a Master of Sacred Theology.   At the time of being honored in 1966, she authored several pamphlets on religious matters.  Since then, Rev. Dr. Martha Kriebel has authored numerous research and other publications.

held since her ordination in 1959.  She received her B.S Degree, Cum Laude, in 1956 from Ursinus College; her B.D. Degree from Lancaster Theological Seminary in 1959; and the S.T.M Degree at the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Philadelphia.

            In addition to her duties of the 600-member Palm congregation, she was also a member of the Schwenkfelder Mission Board, vice-president, Board of Publication, and chairperson of the Christian Education Committee of the Schwenkfelder Church.

            Her United Church responsibilities included: secretary, Evangelism Commission, Penn Southeast Conference U.C.C.; chairperson if the Evangelism Committee, Ursinus Association; member of the Phoebe Home board of trustees, and a member of the Alumni Council of Lancaster Seminary.

            She was a member of the Upper Perkiomen Valley Business and Professional Women's Club, Soroptomist Club, and Perkiomen Valley Women's Club.  She served as an advisor for the Venture Club.  

            Rev. Kriebel served as a member of the Community Nurse Association, Chairperson of the Upper Perkiomen Valley Study Council, and a member of the Montgomery County Health and Welfare Council. 

            In addition, she was a representative to the Montgomery Council of Christian Education and chairperson of the Day-Care Study Committee, Montgomery County Council of Christian Education.

            Up until that time, she authored several pamphlets on religious matters.  Since then, Rev. Dr. Martha Kriebel has authored numerous research and other publications.

            It was quite an accomplishment for two local women.  Their service to the community shows that they earned it.