Community Day 2026 was a well-attended event held Saturday in the borough’s Dimmick Park. In addition to vendors, performances, food, demonstrations, exhibits, raffles and much more, the day was highlighted by the recognition of two well-known Hellertown businesspeople.

Pondelek’s Florist & Gifts owner Jackie Bodor, who recently retired, was recognized for her decades of dedication to the community in times of happiness, sadness and everything in between.

“We want to thank you for your…great contribution to this community,” said state Rep. Bob Freeman (D-136), who presented her with a citation from the state House of Representatives.

“On behalf of the people of Northampton County, I extend heartfelt congratulations,” said county Executive Tara Zrinski, who along with Hellertown Mayor David Heintzelman recognized Bodor and Pondelek’s with a proclamation.

Community Day — Hellertown Mayor David Heintzelman speaks during a ceremony that recognized Pondelek’s Florist & Gifts owner Jackie Bodor, who retired from the business earlier this summer. Also present were Northampton County Executive Tara Zrinski and state Rep. Bob Freeman (D-136).

Heintzelman recalled that in the days when Pondelek’s grew plants in greenhouses in Hellertown, the Bodor family feverishly shoveled coal to keep fires burning and prevent the plants from freezing during cold snaps.

“They were working their tails off,” he said. He also remembered parties that were held in the greenhouses, including one with a Hawaiian theme.

Pondelek’s was founded in 1942 and over several generations became a staple of the Hellertown business community.

Bodor decided to retire after 35 years of involvement with the business, and closed the shop that was located at 202 Main Street in June.

“Pondelek’s Florist has been part of my heart and life for over three-and-a-half decades,” she shared in a June 4 Facebook post. “It has truly been my passion, and I have loved every single moment I have owned it.”

Also recognized at the Community Day ceremony was Braveheart Highland Pub owner Andy Lee, who has been part of the borough business community for nearly two decades.

Lee made headlines earlier this year when he announced that he was putting his popular Scottish-themed pub and restaurant up for sale, along with the historic property it occupies at 430 Main Street, Hellertown.

“He has done so much for our community in so many ways,” said Heintzelman, who joked that he hoped it doesn’t sell so Lee can remain part of the downtown business community.

Freeman called Braveheart and important third place for Hellertown area residents and workers, and Zrinski said it is part of what makes the community a special place.

Although Lee wasn’t present for the ceremony, it was announced that a House of Representatives citation and the proclamations by the borough and county would be presented to him later.