It remains 'thrifty' even at 50.

For a half century, shoppers in downtown Palmerton have been able to spend their money wisely thanks to The Nearly New Shop at 225 Delaware Ave. in Palmerton.In honor of its 50-year anniversary, the Palmerton Hospital Auxiliary of the Blue Mountain Health System celebrated the 50th anniversary of the shop Wednesday and today with special sales, and a chance to win a $50 gift certificate.The celebration will culminate with a special luncheon, which will be held at noon Friday in the third-floor conference room of the Palmerton Hospital.Sissy Schmick of Palmerton was among the many customers who left the thrift shop with bags full of clothing."I love it," Schmick said. "I love coming here (because) all of the ladies do a good job."Phyllis Kreiss, of Bowmanstown, said she enjoys the thrift shop thoroughly, and likes to support the Palmerton Hospital.As part of the sales, all adult and children's clothing were available for 50 cents apiece, according to store manager Karen Kaiser."We sold a lot of clothing today," Kaiser said. "It's been very successful."Kaiser said that while much has been sold, there was still plenty left to be had."Our first customer had three large garbage bags full," she said. "It's been very positive."Kaiser said all of the items are donated."We pride ourselves in the quality of our clothing and small household treasures, and the fact that we are able to keep our prices so low," she said. "Our dedicated volunteers work many hours sorting through donations and staffing the shop."Betts Marvin and Faye Raub opened the first shop at 223 Delaware Ave. on Nov. 15, 1964. The shop moved to its present location in 1973.The original shop opened for donations and consignment, but over time, it was changed to donations only, Kaiser said."We are open six days a week, and would hope the community will continue to enjoy the friendly atmosphere and great bargains for many years to come," she said. "We hope that Faye and Betts and all of the managers through the years would be proud of the continued success of their shop."