The Quakertown Business and Professional Women's Club held an "Unhappy Hour" at the Trolley Barn, Broad Street, Quakertown, on March 14. This "red" event aimed to highlight the disparity in men's and women's incomes over the span of a year.

Quakertown BPW members at the Unhappy Hour event include Becky Madden, Melissa Wieand, Sheryl Nierenberg, Crystal Smith, Shelby Leight, Nicole Pompa, Rebecca Merola, Tracy McGovern, Jeanne Schlicher, Diane Sodano and Toni Rubic.

            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. The goal was to select someone who supports women in the Quakertown Community workforce. Nominees were asked to submit an application.

           With nominees presented the Quakertown BPW members selected the "Rising Star," and, at the March 27th meeting held at John's Plain and Fancy Diner on Route 309, Naomi Johnson Naylor, Director of the Quakertown Alive, was introduced as the recipient. Co-President Jeanne Schlicher and Chairman Crystal Smith presented her with a $500 check to use within her charity.

            Naomi shared a wealth of information on the development of women-owned businesses in Quakertown. We learned that 25 businesses are owned and operated by women. The number of businesses keeps growing.

           For March, the members collected loaves of bread for the Quakertown Food Pantry. Melissa Wieand, a member, is a volunteer at the pantry.

           The Quakertown BPW is also conducting its Annual Paddle Raffle Event on Sunday, April 28 at Benner Hall. Tickets are $10.  The event runs from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Doors open at noon. Call 215-536-2914 if interested. The prizes include themed baskets, designer purses and other items.

                If you wish to attend the Quakertown BPW meeting or receive information, please call 215-679-6687.