Milander's Market, a fixture in Coplay that built its reputation on fresh meats, seafood and a bond with its patrons, has new owners.

John and April Milander have turned over the keys to Philip Odenwelder and Judy Novak of Moore Township.

Odenwelder decided to retain the name Milander's Market and keep April Milander, whose baked cakes, pies and cupcakes have created a large following in the township.

"Why change anything if it's not broken?" he said.

"We want the store as a mom and pop meat market, a place where people can come and buy fresh quality meats and seafood when in season and a market where patrons feel they are neighbors," Odenwelder said.

The attractive cases feature a large variety of lunch meats, steaks, chops, hamburger, prepared foods and freshly made hoagies. The market also does catering, fundraisers, specials and monthly bundles.

Odenwalder was employed at a brewery and Novak at an area supermarket. Odenwelder said a friend told him Milander's may be up for sale.

"The next day, it was in August, I met with John and we reached an agreement," he said.

Odenwelder said he worked for Milander from 1986 to 1988 as a meat cutter in the deli and in customer service. Milander then closed the market, only to return at a later date. His father ran the market before he did.

"The people have been very supportive," Odenwelder said.