The Jim Thorpe Current- May 2023

The CURRENT

The Kemmerer Park Story Continues It’s Fascinating Arc

By Jack Sterling Special to The Current

In the earliest years of the village of Mauch Chunk, the future site of Kemmerer Park belonged to the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Co. (LC&N), as did most of the property in the village. The LC&N constructed inclined planes, chutes and storage bins on the steep hillside, as well as wharves with coal breakers along the Lehigh. Coal was transported by the Mauch Chunk Gravity Railroad (aka the Switchback) to where the anthracite was sorted and transferred into the Lehigh Canal boats that brought the coal to market.

How Mauch Chunk Became Jim Thorpe

By Natalya Bucuy The Current Contributing Writer

How did Jim Thorpe become Jim Thorpe?

John Leisenring became superintendent of the LC&N in the Lehigh region in 1860, moving into the Front Hill home originally built by Josiah White, which later served as the home of the LC&N superintendents. The coal chutes and planes at the north end of his property continued to operate until 1872, when other means of getting the coal to market were completed. About that time, Leisenring, who had been a tenant on LC&N land, purchased the home and adjacent property. In the late 1870s he gifted the northern part of the property to Mahlon Sistie Kemmerer, who had married his daughter Annie in 1868.

Continued on page 8

The town’s origin story contains some intriguing details. A unique fundraising campaign, a world-renowned athlete, who never stepped foot in the town, and a U.S. Supreme Court case are just a few worth mentioning. Industrial beginnings

The town traces its roots back to 1818. The Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company established its headquarters and a worker’s village on the Lehigh River that year. The village took the name of Mauch Chunk, which means “Bear Place” in the Munsee-Lenape Native American language of the region.

A prominent Carbon County town, Mauch Chunk remained a booming industrial and transportation center for more than a century. However, as the coal industry

The RiverWalck Saloon Come for the Story, Stay for the Food and Entertainment

By Dana Roberts The Current Contributing Writer

This May, celebrate the beginning of warm weather, longer days, and lazy evenings with a trip to The RiverWalck Saloon, Parryville’s sprawling roadhouse restaurant.

Located at 101 Centre Street, RiverWalck is hard to miss. A large, multilevel building, resembling a reimagined cabin, RiverWalck sits on a beautifully landscaped lot, with an elevated old-fashioned car and large billboard drawing in the eye of passerby. And one must allow themselves to be drawn in, for all that RiverWalck has to offer: delicious

food, a unique, comfortable vibe, fantastic outdoor spaces (including multiple decks, a covered open-air stone patio dining area, a large firepit with tons of seating), and a constant line-up of excellent entertainment.

Roger Ortiz, the manager of RiverWalck, noted that while RiverWalck is often thought of as a “biker bar”, it’s really so much more. Ortiz said that RiverWalck has pushed more towards a family atmosphere, where anyone can come out and have fun.

Fun is certainly easy to pursue at RiverWalck. The establishment offers a varied and exciting monthly line-up of things to do, including live music, trivia

diminished and the Great Depression’s effects took hold, the town faced economic challenges. In the 1950s Mauch Chunk looked for unique ways to escape poverty and despair. And it found it in the most unexpected place.

Jim Thorpe: Distinguished Athlete of the 20th Century James Francis Thorpe was born on May 28, 1888, in the Indian territory of modern Oklahoma. Predominantly of Sac and Fox American Indian descent, Thorpe attended Carlisle Indian Industrial School in Pennsylvania, his only direct connection to the area.

A talented athlete in various sports, in 1912 Thorpe won the decathlon and the pentathlon by wide margins at the Olympic Games in Stockholm. Unfortunately, in 1913 the Amateur Athletic Union discovered that prior to his Olympics performance Thorpe played in the semiprofessional baseball league and got paid for it. That fact disqualified him from the Olympics by the rules of the time. Thorpe lost his gold medals. It wasn’t until the 1980s that his wins were reinstated and his Continued on page 4

nights, Friday night dance parties, theme nights, and twice-monthly line dancing, which RiverWalck has become renowned for. Line-dancing has been going strong there for about three years. No experience is required, as a trainer comes in to give lessons prior to the start of each evening’s

dancing session. May also marks the return of line dancing moving out onto the back deck for the warm weather season, where participants and observers alike can enjoy the atmosphere.

Music lovers will also find RiverWalck to be a haven,

Continued on page 11

Ride in Eco-Friendly Style to The Stabin Museum and Café Arielle in their New SixSeat NEV (Neighborhood Electric Vehicle)

Briggs Farm Blues Festival Announces Complete Lineup for 2023 Show

Briggs Farm Blues Festival is right around the corner. This years Festival, July 6, 7, 8 in Briggsville, Pennsylvania promises to ignite the calm country air with world class music, turning the rolling hills of Briggs Farm into the biggest and most awarded blues festival on the east coast.

The three day festival with over 20 international and regional acts on two stages is an easy drive from everywhere, but smack in the middle of no where. Briggs Farm is an easy destination for music lovers up and down the eastern seaboard, and beyond. And while the festival has grown over the years, its down home feel stays the same, no one is a number at Briggs Farm.

Briggs Farm Blues Festival begins Thursday, July 6th from the Back Porch Stage. This year’s Thursday Night Pre Party kicks off with The Doug McMinn Blues Band at 6pm. Then the incomparable Clarence Spady Band will return to remind the crowd why he’s the reigning king of blues in northeast Pennsylvania. Some people might remember Thursday’s headliner, the wild and wooly Scott Pemberton O-Theory

Brandon Santini will stroll that Memphis vibe right into Briggsville with his harmonica and powerful vocals.

Briggs Farm Blues Festival is just a few miles off Interstate 80 and 30 minutes from Wilkes Barre. On site camping, a sprawling vendor marketplace, and a variety of delicious food and craft beer sales from Berwick Brewing round out this unique festival. Patrons can bring in their own beverages (no glass), coolers, and snacks. Tickets for the event are on sale now. More information and ticket purchasing options can be found on their website at briggsfarm.com.

Saturday’s Lineup, July 8, 2023:

Robert Randolph Band will headline Saturday’s show! Rolling Stone put Grammy nominated Randolph on the list of the “100 Greatest Guitarists of all Time.” He’s a pedal steel guitar virtuoso with irresistible rock n roll swagger who found his audience among blues fans, roots aficionados, and people looking for joy and uplifting music.

The Stabin Museum is excited to announce the launch of its new neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV) shuttle service, providing visitors with a convenient, eco-friendly way to get to and explore the museum and restaurant.

The NEV, which can seat up to six passengers, will transport visitors from downtown to the Stabin Museum, Café Arielle, and Vic’s Jazz Loft. With zero emissions and a quiet ride, the NEV is the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of Jim Thorpe while minimizing your impact on the environment.

“We are thrilled to introduce this new service, which will make it even easier for visitors to enjoy our museum and the surrounding area,” said Victor Stabin, founder of the Stabin Museum. “Not only

is the NEV a fun and unique way to travel, it also helps us fulfill our commitment to sustainability and protecting our planet.”

The NEV shuttle service is available weather permitting, with pick-up and dropoff locations from downtown Jim Thorpe. To learn more about the Stabin Museum, please call 570-325-5588.

About the Stabin Museum: At The Stabin Museum, our mission is to create a unique and memorable experience for our guests through the intersection of great food, live entertainment, and visual arts. We are committed to showcasing great talent and providing a world-class platform for artists to perform while offering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. We strive to be a destination venue that fosters community and cultural enrichment.

Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary in Jim Thorpe Pre-Season Celebration Benefiting Family Promise

SPECIAL PRE-SEASON EVENTS

MAY 20 • ANNUAL SCOUT EVENT

2 sessions • 10:00am -12:30pm and 1:00pm - 3:30pm

Open to all Girl Scouts and their families

Reservations Needed

MAY 27, 28, 29 • ANNUAL WELCOME THE BUTTERFLIES BACK CHARITY EVENT

11:00am - 5:00pm each day. All the usual butterfly and frog fun. Plus special activities for kids, door prizes, Milkweed plant and seed sale, food, PL butterfly hatching kits. CCEEC will be on site Saturday and Sunday

To Benefit Family Promise of Carbon County. No Reservations Needed

Public Walk-In Hours Begin June 10. No Reservations Needed

Thursday through Monday 11:00am - 5:00pm • Tuesday & Wednesday 2:00pm - 6:00pm

BEAR MOUNTAIN BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY 18 Church Road in Jim Thorpe • 570-325-4848 / Mari’s cell: 484-467-0882

The Main Stage is the beating heart of the festival and 2023 will pump the foot stomping tunes deeper and louder than ever before with a dynamite lineup!

Friday’s Lineup, July 7, 2023:

Victor Wainwright and the Train will Headline Friday’s show! Wainwright is a Grammy nominated award winning powerhouse who can’t hold himself back! With the train behind him, rolling thunder collies with boogie woogie blues!

Joanna Connor and the Wrecking Crew will turn the grassy fields into a Chicago Blues Club! Her style is formidable, her vocals like a butter churn for the soul. She’s straight shootin’ guitar shredder, plain and simple.

Super Chikan and the Fighting Cocks will bring the Mississippi Delt a to Briggsville! Hailing from Clarksdale, Mississippi, James “Super Chikan” Johnson is fun, frisky, danceable, and as loopy as you’d expect from a guy who plays instruments fashioned from discarded metal and who grew up chatting with poultry!

RL Boyce and the Cornlickers will kick off Friday’s Main Stage! A master at improvisation, RL Boyce plays music that’s loose and laid back while looping into an endless groove of hypnotic guitar that builds into a frenzy!

While the Main Stage is rockin’, the Back Porch stage is jammin’ right along throughout the entire festival.

Back Porch Stage

Friday’s Lineup, July 7, 2023

Uptown Music Collective won the hearts of Briggs Farm last year. They’re a dynamic group of kids who come together with a musicality beyond their years.

New Moon Acoustic Blues will sooth the soul and bring the blues down hard on the farm.

Martin Guitar presents Craig Thatcher and Nyke Van Wyk in a dynamite combo.

Justin Mazer Trio has become a fixture in the music scene! He’s a Philadelphia guitarist who knows how to blast off into another dimension of blues.

Eddie 9V has acted on instinct all his life, and that instinct landed him firmly on the roots and blues circuit of his native Atlanta, Georgia.

Bywater Call is a 7 piece powerhouse of Southern Soul and Roots Rock that runs on raw emotion and strong musicianship.

Jackie Venson is an Austin legend in the making! A complex multi instrumentalist known for blazing guitar skills that create psychedelic electronic journeys that will surprise and please a blues crowd.

Back Porch Stage

Saturday’s Lineup, July 8, 2023

Old Man Mojo with start things off with a bit of funk, a hit of blues, and get the Briggs Farm crowd up and ready for what’s to come.

Benny Turner is a veteran at his craft. He pulls his blues from a deep well of passion that will spill out onto the rolling hills of Briggs Farm. Just try to not to dance when Benny’s on stage!

R.L. Boyce will be coming off the Main Stage and onto the Back Porch with an electrifying performance of deep rooted blues and soulful storytelling. R.L. is the closest connection we have to the traditions of blues past. He’s a legend.

Miss Melanie and the Valley Rats are heading back to Briggs! Miss Melanie has an intense vocal range, always a crowd favorite, she knows how to bring the funk!

Ghalia Volt is a one woman band. Climb into the electric chair and experience some high voltage when this rock star takes the stage!

family received his medals back.

Thorpe continued to play baseball, football, basketball, boxing, lacrosse, swimming, and hockey. In 1920 and 1921 he served as the first president of the American Professional Football Association, which later became the National Football League NFL. His achievements in such a diverse variety of sports earned him international recognition. The Associated Press voted Thorpe the third greatest athlete of the 20th century, behind only Babe Ruth and Michael Jordan. In 1963, Thorpe was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

A Win-Win Deal

Following Thorpe’s death in 1953, his third wife and widow Patricia Gladys Askew sought ways to commemorate her late husband. His native Oklahoma refused to erect a memorial so she took her search elsewhere.

At the time Mauch Chunk ran its innovative “Nickel a Week” donation campaign in an attempt to revitalize the town. Residents contributed nickels to the campaign and raised $30,000 in nickels within a few years.

Using $10,000 from the fundraising campaign, the town erected an elaborate red marble mausoleum on a hill in East Mauch Chunk. Thorpe’s remains were moved to the site. An elaborate ceremony officiated in part by Native Americans honored the athlete. His crypt was sealed with soil from his hometown in the Sac and Fox nation, the track fields from the Stockholm Olympics, and the grounds of the Carlisle Industrial Indian School. In 2007, a life-sized bronze statue of Thorpe in his football uniform was erected at the memorial. In exchange, the town renamed itself after the athlete. And so, in 1954, Mauch Chunk merged with East Mauch Chunk and became Jim Thorpe and the Carbon County seat.

Jim Thorpe Renaissance

The changes didn’t come right away, but they came. Fortunately, the town didn’t have enough funds to bulldoze many of its dilapidated buildings as it originally planned. And so, many of the town’s historical gems still stand. Among those are the Mauch Chunk Opera House and the Inn at Jim Thorpe. Since the town’s rebirth, storefronts and homes on Race and Broad Streets have been welcoming visitors with their unique charm and history.

In the later part of the 20th century, outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and white water rafting gained popularity. With the mountainous setting and the quaint charm of the town, Jim Thorp’s tourism soared.

In 2010, Jack Thorpe, the athlete’s son, filed a lawsuit that demanded the return of his father’s remains for reburial in Thorpe’s tribal homeland in Oklahoma. Thorpe claimed that the town is keeping his father’s bones as a tourist attraction. According to the complaint, refusing to return the remains constitutes a violation of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA.) The borough of Jim Thorpe claimed the burial was not a tourist attraction as defined by NAGPRA and that Thorpe’s wife had the right to place her husband’s bones in a public shrine. Following multiple appeals, the case made it all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. The highest judicial branch denied the appeal, ruling for the remains to stay in Jim Thorpe in 2015.

Happy Birthday, Jim Thorpe!

For decades, every year in late May, the community came together for Jim Thorpe’s birthday celebration. The festival celebrated prosperity and the town’s honorary citizen. Although the event takes a pause this year, local authorities plan a redesigned version of the festival to return in 2024.

U.S. Navy Blue Angels Featured Performers at May 27-28 Great Pocono Raceway Air Show

Thevaunted United States Navy Blue Angels will make their first public appearance in the Northeast on May 27-28 as the featured aviation event of the Great Pocono Raceway Airshow.

The third edition of the Great Pocono Raceway Airshow will feature the Blue Angels for the first time among the several performers scheduled for the stadium-seating weekend event at Pocono Raceway.

The Blue Angels are a flight demonstration squadron of the United States Navy that was formed in 1946. The unit, which is the world’s second-oldest formal aerobatic team, has impressed crowds with its highspeed precision of formations, stunning rolls and incredible maneuvers in Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet aircraft.

“The iconic F-18s of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the F22 Raptor will bring an intense level of raw power, speed, and precision to the Great Pocono Raceway Airshow,” Pocono Raceway President Ben May said. “The addition of the MXS-RH, the SU-26M and the Vampire will showcase astonishing aerobatics and innovative maneuvers that will dazzle every eye while defying the limits of man and machine. No one is going to want to miss this show.”

In addition to the Blue Angels, each day will feature four other shows ranging from premier fighter aircraft to classics in the twohour shows that begin at 1 p.m. ET.

Also performing daily:

Air Combat Command F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team. This U.S. Air Force unit will showcase the unique capabilities of the world’s premier fifth-generation air dominance fighter aircraft with a number of precision aerial maneuvers like the power loop, split and tail slide. The F-22 Raptor’s combination of stealth, supercruise, maneuverability and integrated avionics, coupled with improved supportability, represents an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities.

Vampire Airshows. This show is a mix of entertainment and education with the de Havilland Vampire DH-115, which was developed as the world’s first single-engine jet fighter. This classic aircraft can still perform rolls, Cuban eights, Shark tooths, inverted flight and high-speed passes along that is accented by a stunning smoke system.

Rob Holland Ultimate Airshows. Holland will impress with his stunts in the MXS-RH, a custom-designed, single-seat aerobatic aircraft made of carbon fiber and based off the popular MXS model. The aircraft, weighing just 1,200 pounds and powered by a 380-horsepower Lycoming engine, has the ability to pull 16 positive and negative Gs and roll at nearly 500 degrees per second.

Rick Volker Airshows. Volker will dazzle in the Sukhoi SU26M, which remains one of the most capable unlimited aerobatic designs due to a combination of a wing made for high lift at extreme angles and huge propeller that provides a 1:1 ratio of static thrust. The result is Volker being able to demonstrate complex signature maneuvers like giant cartwheels, rolling loops and horizontal tail slides to name a few.

All seating is general admission and located in the Pocono Raceway frontstretch grandstand. Single-day tickets for Saturday, May 27, or Sunday, May 28, begin at just $25 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under in the 200 level. Tickets also are available in the shaded 300 level for $50 each day (all ages). Tickets purchased at the gate are $30 for adults and $15 for children.

For more ticket information, visit www. poconoraceway.com or call the Pocono ticket office at 1-800-722-3929 (Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.).

Gates will open two hours prior to the start of the show at 11 a.m. and parking lots will open at 10 a.m.

For more information, please visit www. poconoraceway.com.

pocono bits

$300K in Tourism Dollars Awarded Among 37 Pocono Projects

From enhancing parks and beautifying boroughs to restoring historic landmarks and boosting event security, 37 regional projects are receiving a major financial boost through the PMVB Community Impact Grant from the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau (PMVB).

Now in its second year, the 2023 program has awarded a total of $300,372 among local governments, agencies, and organizations to support a variety of projects that aim to improve the quality of life in communities across Wayne, Pike, Monroe, and Carbon counties.

“This is one of the ways tourism gives back in the Poconos,” said Chris Barrett, President/CEO of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. “By funding impactful projects, which will be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike, we are saying ‘thank you’ to our local governments and organizations for hosting the 30 million guests who visit the Poconos each year.”

In the past two years, the PMVB Community Impact Grant, which utilizes funds from the Hotel Occupancy Tax, has awarded a total of $549,314 among 60 projects. Information about future rounds of funding will be posted, once available, on poconomountains.com/grants.

2nd Annual Taste of the Poconos

The Newfoundland Area Public Library announced it will be hosting its second annual Taste of the Poconos (TOP) at the Carlton Drake Memorial Park while making it bigger and better than ever before. Taste of the Poconos aims to bring together all the special aspects of the four counties of Northeast PA -- local restaurants, breweries, wineries, artists, small businesses, farmers, distilleries, artisans, musicians, nonprofits, and so much more -- while spotlighting the

hidden gem of the Newfoundland park.

Participants are invited to stroll the picturesque Nature Trail of the park while discovering local goods and services – all to support a very good cause. “Something many people aren’t aware of is that we don’t have a library tax in Wayne County”, says Library Director, Kristina Russo.

“Therefore, the Newfoundland Library needs to hold a lot of fundraisers to make ends meet.” Russo works tirelessly to run and maintain the Newfoundland Library. She also understands local businesses and residents. She states, “In the 21st century, we especially need to be innovative as we ask our communities for support, and we

You can purchase advance tickets for the Taste of the Poconos on their website for only $20 per person. Want to showcase your skills, business or charitable organization? All applications can also be found on the TOP website: www.tasteofthepoconospa.com

About the Park

The Carlton Drake Memorial Park is owned by Dreher Township. It is located at 994 Main Street, Newfoundland and is a 44 acre park with baseball fields, soccer fields, a football field, pavilions, a concession stand, walking trail and benches along the Wallenpaupack Creek.

Groups such as Wallenpaupack Area Little League, Wallenpaupack Youth Soccer League and others use the park for sporting event practices and games. An annual Fish for Kids Day is held the second Saturday in May. A Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday, May-October from 10am-2pm.

Family Fun Festival

Family Promise in partnership with AllOne Charities invites you to bring the whole family for a fun filled charity event benefiting Family Promise of Carbon County. Enjoy Home Cooked Food, Basket Raffle, Bake Sale, Silent Auction, Activities and Events for all ages.

Earth Day Cleanup at Kemmerer Park

In observance of Earth Day about twenty-five students of the Carbon Career and Technical Institute came to help spring cleanup at Kemmerer Park in Jim Thorpe. In early 2022 CCTI “adopted” Kemmerer Park and have helped with cleanup and also donated two sturdy benches to the park. Pictured here are some of the students.

• Cornhole Tournament

• 3 Point Basketball Contest

• Family Fun Run

SAVE THE DATE!

Saturday, September 9th, 9:00am1:00pm

Penn Forest Recreational Park, Route 903 in Jim Thorpe.

Registration begins in June.

Carbon County Nature Center Plans Wildflower Hike

On Saturday, May 13, the Carbon County Environmental Education Center will host a plant and wildflower hike, open to all ages and interest levels, beginning at 1:00 pm.

Volunteer Naturalist Michael Blacketter will lead the program along easy walking trails. Early May is the perfect time to enjoy

and view native trees, mosses and ferns. Several species of wildflowers will also be in bloom, and Blacketter will help participants find and identify them.

The program is free for members of the EEC, and a nominal donation is requested of non-members. Field guides and binoculars will be available on loan.

The Center is located at the west end of Mauch Chunk Lake Park, along Lentz Trail just outside Jim Thorpe.

Waterproof footwear is recommended. For more information or to register, please call 570-645-8597.

Plant Swap

Saturday, May 27, 11:00am to 2:00pm

Come with—or without—garden plants to share. This is a great opportunity for new and veteran gardeners alike to save money and to meet and talk with each other for

pocono bits

is what we’re trying to do, is preserve the home for future generations,” said Ava Bretzik, Asa Packer Mansion curator.

Doyle Heffley, State Representative PA-22, said, “a Victorian style mansion that was built in the 1800s by Asa Packer and the Packer family. It’s been an iconic tourism destination for many years and like with your home it costs a lot to maintain it. It’s a huge building so there’s always work that needs to be done to it.”

The borough of Jim Thorpe also received $750,000 for improvements to High Street.

Rail Excursion Season About to Begin

The Reading & Northern Railroad is set to begin another busy season of all-day passenger excursions from its Reading Outer Station, located at 3501 Pottsville Pike in Muhlenberg Township. In addition to trips to Jim Thorpe, there will be alternative excursions to Pottsville.

planting tips and tricks. No registration is required. Native plants are preferred but not required. Please note, no invasive species allowed.

For more info visit www.carboneec. org or call 570-645-8597 Have a wildlife emergency? TEXT or call (570) 233-3384

Asa Packer Mansion Receives Grant Funding from the State

Jim Thorpe was awarded $300,000 in state grant funding toward renovations to the historic Asa Packer Mansion.

The mansion has been an attraction in Jim Thorpe since 1956 and remains one of the biggest tourist attractions in the area, bringing in thousands of people every year.

Greg Strubinger, Borough Council President, said, “ and the funding aspect of it. of course, we’re a small borough with a limited budget, ya know without this funding you know we’d have a serious challenge with the upkeep with some of the items that are needed right now to keep the home in proper repair.”

“This is a home that is a jewel. This is a time capsule. We have to tell people that the Asa Packer mansion is not a restoration, it’s a preservation, and that

Jim Thorpe Football Alumni Golf Tournament Set for June 4

The 10th Annual Jim Thorpe Olympian Football Alumni golf tournament will be Sunday, June 4 at Split Rock Golf Club in Lake Harmony.

The 4-person scramble format will have an 8:00am shotgun start. Registration is at 7:00am.

The Port Clinton-based railroad’s Pottsville trains will depart at 10 a.m. on April 29, June 17, July 29, Aug. 19 and Sept. 16. Tickets are $39 round trip. Passengers have five hours in Pottsville — a longer layover than that of Jim Thorpe — to explore and enjoy the town before reboarding for the return trip.

Reading to Jim Thorpe excursions will resume on May 6 and continue every Saturday and Sunday (plus holidays) through Sept. 30. These trips depart Reading ($39 round trip) at 9 a.m. and make station stops in Port Clinton ($39 round trip) and Tamaqua ($24 round trip). Tickets are on sale now.

This year passengers will have more time in Jim Thorpe — over four and a half hours — to dine and shop downtown. Rail diesel cars will be utilized on this route. Railroad officials said that considerable work was done to ensure the cars are ready. Major offseason work included motors being replaced. One RDC received a new transmission.

If you are an artist or artisan, join the Carbon County Art League (CCAL) meeting on Wednesday, May 10th at 6:00 pm held at the Palmerton Area Library, 402 Delaware Ave, in Palmerton, PA 18071.

The meeting’s highlight will be presentation on the art of drawing by well known and highly accomplished local artist Jay Davenport - the founder and owner of the Stillwater Studio, an institute of instruction in fine art.

Also, if you are interested in CCAL membership, send us an email: info@ carboncountyart.com.

The $100 per person registration fee includes cart and green fees, snacks and beverages and a catered lunch at Dom N’ Ali’s Restaurant. There will be prizes for hole-in-one, closest to pin, pot of gold and longest drive. There will also be team prizes for first, second and third place. There is also a 50/50 raffle, $5 mulligans, door prizes and more.

Contact Mark Rosenberger to register, mrosenberger@jtasd.org. Registration deadline is May 16.

Finally, 2023 Iron Horse Rambles tickets will go on sale May 1 at 9 a.m.. The Rambles are pulled by the railroad’s famed 4-8-4 T-1 steam locomotive #2102. Prices range from $99 to $21 per ticket depending on the accommodation chosen.

The Iron Horse Rambles excursions recall the days of steam-powered trips operated by the Reading Company in the late 1950s into the early 1960s. They are scheduled to operate from Reading to Jim Thorpe on July 1, Aug. 13 and Sept. 2.

Mahlon planned to build his mansion on the hillside overlooking the Lehigh River, but first the property had to be transformed. The inclined plane was removed, along with the coal chutes and storage bins that reached as far as the Liberties Hill section of town. It was no easy task, but by early 1879 the mansion was completed, the grounds improved and the Kemmerers were able to move into their new home.

The Kemmerer estate comprised five acres on the hillside. The mansion was built in a pure Swiss style, and comprised nineteen rooms and extended 57 feet front to back with an 83 foot front facing the river. A fine carriage house was built in like stile on the hillside overlooking the mansion, along with numerous outbuildings elsewhere on the property. The main entrance was located along the road leading to Nesquehoning (today’s Rt. 209).

Stately sycamores and evergreens were planted, along with oak, ash and other trees. Terraces were built along the steep hillside along with trails giving a striking view of the river and railroads below. A fountain was built on a small terrace in front of the home overlooking the Lehigh. The “Red Rocks” at the top of the cliffs was another favorite vantage point.

The property extended all the way to the Liberties section of town, with a horseback trail hugging the sheer cliff side running parallel to the Gravity Railroad. In the 1890s there was speculation that Kemmerer had bought the Liberties village, which had belonged to the LC&N, and indeed his trail extended through the village along Mt. Pisgah, going as far as James’ Run along the Broad Mountain. The stone posts along Liberties Hill Road can still be seen in the thick brush, marking the northern end of the Kemmerer trail.

By that time, Mahlon was in his 50s and his wife Anna had passed away a few years prior in 1888. Their marriage had produced five children, but only two, John and Gertrude, lived to maturity. Mahlon died while visiting Atlantic City in 1925, and

by that time both children were married and had moved away, John to Short Hills, New Jersey, and Gertrude to Greenwich, Connecticut, where she lived with her husband Samuel Thorne.

Neither had plans to return to Mauch Chunk, and so it was decided by the Thornes that the estate would be given to the People of Mauch Chunk for use as a park and recreation area and to be overseen by a board of trustees. At first it was uncertain that the property would be accepted by the town. Following the turn of the century Mahlon had spent much of his time in Philadelphia and elsewhere and the mansion suffered and was in need of maintenance and restoration.

The town had no real use for the home, nor the money to spend on restoring it. Eventually, it was decided to accept the estate, but the mansion would be torn down, making more room for the recreational activities intended.

Work progressed on the park through the 1930s, the time of the great depression. But the depression actually benefitted the park through the work done by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), which was part of President Roosevelt’s “New Deal”, putting tradesmen and other personnel back to work. The mortared stone walls, tennis court and picnic pavilion were all part of the WPA project.

A small wading pool and change house were built in the northeast corner of the park, the shell of the change house still stands. The ground where the Mansion had stood was transformed to a softball field and a fountain was constructed along the west side wall.

In 2002 the Park board entered into a lease with the Borough of Jim Thorpe in order to acquire grants for the upgrading of the park. Under board president Robert Handwerk, new plantings were done, paths were paved so as to make parts of the park handicapped accessible, the baseball field was transformed to a basketball court and new playground rides were installed. However, the park had no income

outside of the interest generated from the original fund provided by the Kemmerer estate. Then in the spring of 2008 restoration work began on the Kemmerer Carriage House. Built in the early 1880s, the old building continued to stand and saw some use through the years, but by the late 20th century had fallen into disrepair. A plan to put a new roof on the building never got any further than stacking roof shingles inside the double doors.

Eventually the old roof caved in. Vandals gained access to the building and battered a large hole in the brick wall facing the river. Plans were set in motion to demolish the building, but at the last moment the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center stepped in and led the renovation of the Carriage House. From a collapsing brick shell the building was cleaned out, mostly with volunteer help from Museum members and the Jim Thorpe High School.

Others involved were the Mauch Chunk Historical Society, Borough of Jim Thorpe, Carbon Co. Correctional Facility and the Carbon Career & Technical Institute (CCTI). Volunteer Rich Cadwallader moved some very large rocks to make the Carriage House parking area larger. John Drury, president of the Mauch Chunk Museum, spearheaded the project and funding, contacting members of the Kemmerer

and Leisenring families, raising well over $200,000 for the restoration. A new roof was put in place, and the gaping holes in the brick wall were repaired.

Once the building was secure, work began on the interior. The east side was made into a one bedroom apartment, the west side became a library dedicated to the history of the Leisenrings, Kemmerers and other Front Hill families. In 2011 Jim Thorpe Boy Scout Troop 555 led by Billy Sterling began an Eagle Scout project, which greatly improved the park entrance off Lehigh Ave.

Dead and fallen trees were removed and two benches were installed by the Troop. When the Carriage House apartment was finished and rented, it provided the park with some real income, allowing more and better maintenance of the grounds.

Two of the long time board members, Ben Walbert and Bob Handwerk passed away suddenly in 2019 and 2022 respectively. It became necessary at that time to rebuild the park board and set in motion improvements to the park. With help from the borough and from CCTI the park has been cleaned up and many dead and fallen trees removed. This clean-up is an ongoing project, dependent on what we can afford.

Photos courtesy of the Mauch Chunk Museum & Cultural Center

taste

Enjoy Springtime in Lehighton with Wine on the River

Spring is here, and what better way to enjoy its beauty and the warmer weather with friends than with a glass of wine on the river! This year, we celebrate the Lehighton Downtown Partnership’s 4th Annual Wine on the River on Saturday, May 6, 2023 from 11:00 am - 6:00 pm at its new location, Baer Memorial Park.

Spend the day sampling various wines from 13 regional wineries, bring out the foodie in you when you indulge in delicious and delectable eats and sweets from food trucks and vendors, find interesting treasures when you shop local crafters and exhibitor booths, and bring your lawn chairs to sit back, relax and listen to live music. There will be something for everyone to find his/her fun!

All tickets come with a complimentary wine glass for taste testing and our own custom wine check! While you are sipping and shopping, there’s no need to carry your purchases. Be sure to check them with our unique wine check operation.

Most of your favorite wineries from previous years are returning to Wine on the River, but we also have a few brandnew ones participating! Featured wineries are: King Cole Winery, Clever Girl Winery, Lucchi Family Wine Cellars, Benigna’s Creek Vineyard & Winery, Talerico’s Tropical Winery, Capra Collina Vineyard, RAW Winery, Bouchette Vineyards, Sleepy Cat Urban Winery, Wine & More on 1st , Stone Lake Winery, Essiem’s Mead Apiary, and Cellar Beast Winehaus.

As for entertainment, we will have two stages for continuous live music this year.

From 11:00 am -2:00 pm, The Left Edge and Autumn Falls Entertainment will take the stage, and from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Supersonic Godfathers and Damian Walck will perform. During breaks, DJ Tony will

keep the tunes playing.

Lehighton Downtown Partnership is a committee of the Carbon Chamber and Economic Development. For more information or to volunteer or become a member of the Lehighton Downtown Partnership, please contact Bambi at (610) 509-6465 or email at BambiE@ carboncountychamber.org.

All advanced ticket sale purchases will be entered into a drawing for a basket of wine. One bottle of wine from each of the wineries attending will be included in the basket!

This year’s Wine on the River is sponsored by: Home Comfort Solutions, Lehighton Outdoor Center, St. Luke’s Lehighton Campus, PenTeleData, Blue Ridge, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Carbon, Bennett Family Properties, Slaw Precast, Keller Williams Real Estate, Passanante’s Home Food Service, Redline Floor Covering, Inc., TNT Premier Real Estate, The Neffs National Bank, Walter’s Monument, Inc., Jim Thorpe Trolley Company, Key Bank, and Iron Valley Real Estate-Northeast.

So, mark your calendar, gather some friends, and purchase your tickets for Wine on the River here: https://tinyurl.com/ wineontherivertickets2023.

Ticket Prices through May 6thincluding day of event:

VIP Tickets: $100.00/person OR $180.00/couple - limited seats

* Includes reserved seating under VIP tent, wine glass, tastings, VIP wine check, hors-d’oeuvres, non-alcoholic beverages and more!

General Admission Ticket Sales: $35.00/ person

*Includes a wine glass, tastings and free wine check.

Designated Driver: $15.00/person

because working with local acts and bands is a priority here. Two Taboo, a classic rock duo, is a regular favorite and hosts an openmic night. The Friday night dance party, hosted by deejay Chris Trio, features a good mix of everything, with larger doses of throwback hip hop, Latin/reggaeton, and EDM (electronic dance music).

Trio loves deejaying at RiverWalck and finds it to be the perfect fit. Since his previous weekend gig at Ruby’s Saloon came to a close last year, when Ruby’s abruptly shuttered its doors, Trio has loved calling RiverWalck his weekend deejay home. He says that his favorite part of deejaying there is the overall vibe.

inviting space for all is his goal. Ortiz has been the general manager at RiverWalck for two years, after initially joining the staff as a bartender in 2018. His previous 25 years’ experience as a retail store manager shines through with the care he takes in running a bustling and fun operation.

In conversation with Ortiz, the pride he and the staff feel for RiverWalck is evident. They have created a menu in which everyone can find something appealing. While RiverWalck originally started as a Tex-Mex restaurant, it is now geared more towards barbeque. The adjustments to the menu have been well-received, as the food and drinks are applauded by guests. Ortiz, when asked about his favorite menu item, says the ribs are “fall-off-the-bone” delicious, and also highly recommends the Key Lime margarita and all of the summer drinks.

Ortiz’s pride in RiverWalck, and the collective love its staff and patrons feel for it, stems from the owner of RiverWalck, Michael Johnson. Johnson, who will celebrate his 70th birthday May 9th (another reason to head to RiverWalck in May!), has worked in the restaurant and bar business for years.

A native of New Hampshire, he spent his adult life between Park City, Utah, and Carmel, California, working in and then owning various bars and restaurants, and could easily write a book about his adventures. He worked for Clint Eastwood from 1986 until the mid-late 1990’s. A previous coworker of Johnson’s introduced him to the manager of Eastwood’s restaurant in Carmel, the Hog’s Breath Inn.

come to an end, and Johnson eventually sold off his businesses in Park City, including the saloon. Johnson and Stemmler both made their way back east; Johnson, to help take care of his brother, and Stemmler, back to his homeland of Carbon County, PA.

“The place brings such an eclectic mix of people,” Trio says. “No other bar has treated me the way the staff at RiverWalck does. The staff is so nice and welcoming. Roger is one of the best bar managers I have ever worked for. The food is just a bonus; they take VERY good care of me there as a nightlife deejay and as a person overall.”

The excellent hospitality Trio mentions is no surprise, as it’s a priority for Ortiz as RiverWalck’s manager. Creating a fun,

Johnson started working there in ’86, when Eastwood was the mayor of Carmel, and then went on to work at another of Eastwood’s restaurants, Mission Ranch. The restaurant world eventually led Johnson back to Park City, where he then owned several restaurants and bars. One of those was the well-known (and ironically named) “No Name Saloon” in Park City, which RiverWalck is loosely modeled after.

Johnson hired Mark Stemmler to run the No Name Saloon, which Stemmler did an excellent job of. (Johnson says of Mark: “He is a legend in Park City.”) But all good things

The pull of the friends eventually succeeded in reuniting them again. Stemmler called Johnson and asked him to come take a look at a property he had just bought; a restaurant he had grown up going to: Walck’s Family Restaurant. Johnson did so, and immediately was in. He became the owner, leasing the restaurant from Stemmler, and RiverWalck’s was thus born, in 2008.

It has since been a labor of love, which Johnson continues to strive to upgrade. He notes that the magnitude of the building means that there’s still more to do; one whole upstairs area is still unfinished. This just speaks to the possibilities RiverWalck still has to offer, and to the crowds it will inevitably continue to draw in.

Owner Michael Johnson

Manager Roger Ortiz

Wildlands Conservancy Community Educational Programs for May 2023

May 9 • Pre-K Pathfinders at Trexler Nature Preserve: Budding Birders 10:00 am11:00 am at Trexler Environmental Center, Trexler Nature Preserve, 4935 Orchard Rd., Schnecksville, PA. PreK pathfinders is a series of programs for 3-5 year olds and their adults. This month: Observe live birds inside and up close before venturing outside to spy on their wild, feathered friends. Event is free, but space is limited, so please preregister on line. For more information, contact Brandon Swayser bswayser@wildlandspa.org or 610-9654397 ext. 136. To register, visit https://www. wildlandspa.org/event/pre-k-pathfinders-attrexler-nature-preserve-budding-birders

May 27 • Bike & Boat Adventures: Canoe on Long Pond 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm at Long Pond, Long Pond, PA. We will send the meetup location to registrants. We’ll provide the canoes, paddles and personal floatation devices (pfd’s) for this chance in a lifetime opportunity to explore this unique habitat. Long Pond is one of Audubon Society’s Important Bird Areas of Pennsylvania. There is a fee; preregistration is required. For registration questions, contact Brandon Swayser bswayser@wildlandspa.org or 610-965-4397 ext. 136. To Register, visit https://www.wildlandspa.org/event/bikeboat-adventures-canoe-on-long-pond

Spring Activities for Kids

By Shannon Madden Special to The Current

The change of seasons is one of my favorite things about living in the Northeast. I can honestly say that I enjoy all the seasons and look forward to the different pace, activities, and challenges of each. As winter gives way (usually begrudgingly) to spring, I start to think about rain boots, puddle jumping, flowers, and chirping birds. The sweet smells and longer daylight hours of spring are certainly something to relish even if you’re sad to see all the cold weather gear go to storage for now.

Planning new activities is another pleasant aspect to the change of seasons. I enjoy arranging unique things to try and old favorites that we adore every year.

On The Trail

Unless you visit new places frequently, you’ve got to find ways to spice up the same stretch of trail where your family walks regularly. The seasonal shift does some of the work for you. As spring approaches you can encourage your kids to observe the differences in their surroundings. Ask them what they notice about the trail, surrounding area, and wildlife. It’s interesting to hear their perspectives.

There are tons of simple extension activities that require no advanced prep or equipment.

Color or letter walk - find all the colors of the rainbow (ROYGBIV) as you walk or find things that begin with each letter of the alphabet. It prompts kids to look around and reinforces prior learning. These are perfect activities for pre-K through second grade children.

Senses walk - experience the new season with all your senses. Make a point to inhale deeply through your nose to smell all the plants that are budding and flowering. Notice changes throughout spring as different flowers bloom. When you stop to rest, close your eyes and listen intently for all the creatures returning from the south or waking up from hibernation. When using your sense of touch, take caution. Do your best not to damage any flora and don’t attempt to pet any animals. It’s probably best not to taste anything!

Identifying trees is a perfect activity for older kids and teens. The only advanced preparation you might consider is getting a guidebook from the library or doing some online research. Keep a journal of your observations. Kids can paste in pictures of the trees they see or draw their own.

Off The Trail

May 28 • Get Out for Wellness: D&L Trail: Weissport to Jim Thorpe 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm at the D&L Weissport Trailhead, 46 Canal St., Lehighton, PA. Bordered on one side by the canal and by a whitewater section of the Lehigh on the other, this trail is 3.5 miles each way; it is level, easy walking. Two environmental educators will be on this hike to provide two walking options: (1) walk to Jim Thorpe and grab coffee or a late lunch and return to Weissport or (2) walk a shorter distance and return to Weissport. This event is free; please register on line. For more information, contact Brandon

Swayser bswayser@wildlandspa.org or 610-965-4397 ext. 136. To register, visit https://www.wildlandspa.org/event/ get-out-for-wellness-dl-trail-weissport-tojim-thorpe

Upcoming Music and Entertainment

May 5-7 -Opening Weekend

Join us for a “Get Acquainted Dinner. We supply the meat. Please bring a covered dish & dessert. - Kentucky Derby Hat contest

May 7 - PTAA Designer Purse Bingo Call for details

May 12-14 -Mother’s Day Weekend

Band - Steel Creek - Tricky Tray

Pancake & Sausage Breakfast ($) Free for mothers

May 19-21 - Flea Market

Free tables for campers. - Sip n’ Paint by Bossard Board Works($)

We also spend plenty of enjoyable outdoor time in settings other than the trail. Here are two fun ideas to get started.

Nature Art

I put this activity in the “off the trail” section because you should not bother the plants along the trail. There are oodles of gorgeous and fragrant flowers. If everyone picked a few to take home, the scene would quickly become less idyllic. However, you can collect flowers, pinecones, and greens from your own yard and make lovely dioramas, pressings, and rubbings.

Make An Obstacle Course

As much as we try to stay active through winter, we feel a huge relief on the first truly warm, sunny day. We’re anxious to do something creative that gets us moving. Encourage kids to make an obstacle course to practice some of the skills they’ve not used much over the winter. Hula hoops or tires for agility exercises and boards for balancing are perfect for working the body and brain together. Include large objects to climb over and limbo sticks to go under. Your imagination is the limit.

I hope these few ideas help you jump start your next season of outdoor excitement.

Shannon Madden, along with her husband and kids, are the Trail Family. They love to take family bike rides, walks, hikes, and generally just be out on the trail together. Their goal is to help you cultivate a trail family lifestyle in your own family through helpful blogs, fun videos, and engaging social media posts. They hope that sharing their adventures will inspire you to get out there too! Visit them at trailfamily.blog, on Instagram @trailfamilylife, and on Facebook at TrailFamily.

May 26-29 - Memorial Day Weekend

Band - Jesse Wade - Tricky Tray - Candy Bar Bingo - Corn Hole Tournament

For more info visit www.donlaine.com

Don Laine Campground 790 57 Drive in Palmerton, PA 800-635-0152

Executive Editor/Publisher

Jeffrey “JD” Diaz 570.399.1400 - JD@JTCurrent.com

For Editorial call: 570.399.1400

e-mail: JD@JimThorpeCurrent.com

Contributing Writers

Lily Appleby • Natalya Bucuy

Jeff Budden • Shannon Madden

Ariel Mann • Dana Roberts

Jack Sterling • Yvonne Wright

For Advertising Jay Pelc • 917.957.1713

JP4541@aol.com

Distribution JD@JimThorpeCurrent.com

library corner

BOOK REVIEW: Saints and Strangers by Angela Carter

By Lily Appleby

The Current Editorial Intern

Upon finishing Saints and Strangers by Angela Carter, I was confronted with two apparent problems. The first was my own unawareness as to how I felt about the collection, and the second was how to write about it. All I can say for certain is that if you find yourself suffering a literary crisis and fancy something entirely new and unlike much else, this collection might be for you.

Published in 1985, Saints and Strangers (or Black Venus, as it was first known), is a collection of eight short stories that predominantly detail the tales of mostly female characters - who existed in reality or folklore - in a reimagined light. Carter is most recognized for her retellings of infused fantastical motifs with a certain element of the macabre, a niche that became popular after the publication of her best-known short story collection, The

PENN KIDDER EVENTS:

STORYTIME FOR AGES 0-5

Every Wednesday at 11am CLASSICS CLUB

Varying Tuesday of the month from 6:00-7:30pm

Check Facebook for updated info

Bloody Chamber, in 1979.

Initially, I thought the selection of stories was strange, and whilst not entirely disjointed, slightly ambiguous at the least.

I’d best attribute the cohesion of the stories to the common theme of women in their varying, truest, forms, not confined to one perfectly prepped, gentle, and nurturing image.

Although Carter’s ardent feminism is more digestible to the modern reader today, she was largely regarded as a feminist radical during the early 80s for her bold and often times promiscuous writing. Her writing provided a more satisfactory (and occasionally jarring) endings to the many stories in which women often were the hopeless victims.

In regards to the individual stories themselves, not all were as memorable and hard-hitting as I had initially hoped when opening the book. Out of the eight, I can only vividly recall two of which I thoroughly enjoyed. “The Fall River Axe Murders”

DIMMICK LIBRARY EVENTS:

STORYTIME WITH MISS BRENDA

Every Tuesday at 10am BOARD OF DIRECTOR’S MEETING

2nd Tuesday of every month at 5:30pm READER’S CIRCLE

2nd Thursday of every month from 6:00-7:30pm

DIMMICK BOOK CLUB

2nd Wednesday of every month at 2pm @ Stabin Museum

COALTOWN CRAFTERS

2nd Thursday of every month at 7pm

provides a reimagining of what occurred in the hours before the infamous murders committed by Lizzie Borden. “Peter and the Wolf” is a retelling of the fairy tale of the same name.

This isn’t to say that the other stories were unreadable or forgettable. Instead, the diction either felt somewhat out of place in a modern context. This is through at no fault of Carter’s own. After all, we shouldn’t expect literature from nearly half a century ago to abide by the same diction we deem appropriate in today’s literature.

Although I’d struggle to label this collection of short stories a ‘must read’, it’s hardly a waste of time if you do choose to pick it up. Carter has an encapsulating way with words, and her prose alone is worth the time. The reimaginations are a bold and unique way to reexperience childhood tales. If anything, the collection highlights a variety of advancements in society, from when the stories are set, to when the collection was published, to now.

May Events at Faith Alive Church

Faith Alive Church, 678 Pine Street in Palmerton, holds two services each Sunday with Pastor Rob Timlin.

At 8:30am is the Contemporary Service followed by Sunday School for all ages at 9:45am and Traditional Service at 11:00am. Worship in person or on facebook live.

Upcoming Events

May 1, 3, 4, 8, 10, 11, 15, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25, 29, 31: 10:30am – AA Meeting

May 2, 9, 16, 30: 6:30pm – AL-ANON

May 7: Communion Sunday 8:30am –Worship, 9:45am - Sunday School, 11:00am -Worship, 6:00pm - Youth Group

May 14: Mother’s Day 8:30am – Worship,

9:45am – Sunday School, 11:00am - Worship

May 16: 10:00am – Quilting Group, May 21: 8:30am - Worship, 9:45am –Sunday School, 11:00am – Worship

May 28: 8:30am – Worship, 9:45amSunday School, 11:00am – Worship, 6:00pm – Youth Group

Vacation Bible School

Twists And Turns

Vacation Bible School will run from June 19 To June 23, Dinner 5-6pm, VBS6-8:30pm

Children age 3 through entering 6th grade are admitted free.

For more information about Faith Alive please visit www.Faithalivechurch.Net or call the office at 610-852-2805.

Breast Cancer Testing Bill Heads to Governor’s Desk

A bill to boost early detection of breast cancer earned unanimous, bipartisan support in the Pennsylvania House last month and is on the way to the governor’s desk.

Senate Bill 8 would eliminate out-ofpocket costs associated with BRCA-related genetic testing and counseling, as well as supplemental screening such as breast MRI and ultrasound, for women at high risk for breast cancer.

High-risk conditions covered by the bill include dense breast tissue, personal history of breast cancer, family history of breast cancer, genetic predisposition and prior radiation therapy.

12th Annual St. Luke’s Hospice

Bike Ride Scheduled for June 3

The 12th Annual St. Luke’s Hospice Bike Ride – an annual event that allows families and friends of individuals who have been on Hospice to honor their loved one, support St. Luke’s Hospice and enjoy the scenic outdoors

Lehigh Valley Health Network Tip

4 Ways to Step Up Your Walking Workout

– will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2023. The rain date is Sunday, June 4.

The ride will begin at 10 am at the D&L National Heritage Trail’s Lehighton Trailhead, located at 200 North Main Lane in Lehighton. The registration fee is $40 and includes a commemorative shirt and a bike and/or helmet loan from Pocono Biking (if needed).

Participants can also purchase a memorial sign to remember their loved ones for $25. The signs will line the route along the Lehighton Trailhead starting point, creating a touching tribute.

All proceeds go directly to St. Luke’s Hospice to continue to provide unmatched end-of-life care to patients and families, regardless of their ability to pay.

Riders can opt for either the 20- or 30mile trail ride. Both rides begin south of Jim Thorpe and traverse along riverbeds and the canal towpath, as well as some paved sections. Riders will see museums, the Appalachian Trail crossing and environmental center, and take in beautiful views of the Blue Mountains, Appalachian Trail and Lehigh Gap.

Snacks and beverages are available at two rest stops located at the Slatington Trailhead and at Treichlers Bridge. Lunch is provided at the end of the ride.

unique stories, there is a special shared experience that they all can relate to.

The St. Luke’s Hospice Bike Ride is an approved event of St. Luke’s “Get Your Tail on the Trail” program. Pocono Biking will provide free loaner bikes and helmets to anyone who registers and does not have their own equipment.

Individuals and groups interested in participating in the 12th Annual St. Luke’s Hospice Bike Ride can register at www. slhn.org/visiting-nurse-association/about-us/ events/annual-bike-ride.

St. Luke’s Sports Medicine Announces Array of Summer Camps and Clinics

St. Luke’s Sports Medicine will hold an array of sports-focused summer camps and clinics throughout the Lehigh Valley this summer, beginning in May and running through August.

In many ways, walking is one of the easiest and most accessible workouts. Just put one foot in front of the other and you’re off!

Not only is it simple, but it’s effective. The perks of walking regularly include:

• Better sleep

• Reduced stress

• Improved mood

• Lower blood pressure

• Less risk for certain cancers, diabetes and heart disease

“You can reap these benefits with a straightforward walking routine,” says family medicine physician Jennifer Aronchick, MD, with LVPG Family Medicine–Pennsburg. “Or add some variety to your walking workouts to avoid boredom and meet different fitness goals.” Here are four new ways to walk, based on your objectives.

Goal #1: Enhance your endurance

How to do it: Pick up some poles

Nordic walking uses special weighted poles to better challenge your whole body. Research shows the method gets results. Even people with heart conditions could walk longer after a few months of regular Nordic walking.

Don’t have poles? Check with your local community or recreation center. They may offer both lessons and equipment.

Goal #2: Turn up the burn

How to do it: Dress in a vest

Weighted vests are sometimes used for high-intensity workouts and in tests for

physically demanding jobs like firefighting. But they also may be a good way to get more benefits from the sidewalk, treadmill or trail.

Studies suggest weighted vests make each stride more physically demanding. “As long as the weight is evenly distributed, it shouldn’t hamper your gait or increase your risk for injury,” Aronchick says.

Goal #3: Better your balance

How to do it: Walk backward

Throw your walk into reverse and you’ll enhance your equilibrium. “Improved balance goes a long way in reducing your risk of falling,” Aronchick says.

What’s more, backward walking is often used to help in the recovery of people who have had a stroke, or those who have Parkinson’s disease or low back pain. It also seems to ease knee pain in people with osteoarthritis.

Goal #4: Maximize your minutes

How to do it: Integrate intervals

Brief bursts of walking at an up-tempo pace improve your fitness in less time. Intervals might look like this: After a fiveminute warm-up, alternate 60 seconds of brisk walking with 60 seconds at a comfortable pace.

No matter which variation you choose, start with a pair of well-fitting shoes, or boots if you’re going to walk on a trail. Share your plan with a friend to help you stay on track – or better yet, recruit a walking buddy to join you.

Held each year in June, the St. Luke’s Hospice Bike Ride is a tangible way to honor the memory of loved ones and support the St. Luke’s Hospice Team. The family of a former Hospice patient introduced the event in 2010 in appreciation of the care and support provided by Hospice. The ride has grown to more than 200 riders who gather on the D&L Trail to celebrate the lives of family and friends they have lost. Although all these families and friends have their own

“The primary purpose of summer athletic camps is to immerse kids in fitness, fun and skill development for their sports,” says John Hauth, Senior Network Administrator, Sports Medicine Relationships. “It can be fun for beginners who will learn basic skills. They will have a foundation to carry them forward. Sports camps are also an excellent refresher over the summer break for more advanced players.

“Campers learn new techniques,” says Hauth. “They learn that hard work pays off, especially if they want to play at higher levels. Introducing an athlete to mentorship and elite instruction helps them develop trust, self-esteem and a competitive attitude.”

Please email tim.mcgorry@sluhn.org with questions or for more information.

New Health Center in Jim Thorpe Opens

St. Luke’s University Health Network

(SLUHN) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony this past April 6, to celebrate completion of phase one of its new St. Luke’s Health Center in Jim Thorpe. Health network leaders, care givers and local residents, legislators and government officials participated in the event.

Located at 1122 North St., Jim Thorpe, this 8,700 square-foot facility initially will provide family medicine, by local doctor Daniel Plavin, MD (St. Luke’s Jim Thorpe Primary Care); nephrology care by Brittany Cataldo, DO, Cheryl Lipson, MD, Nicholas Varvarelis, DO, Sarah Livengood, PAC and Ann Acevedo, CRNP (St. Luke’s Nephrology Associates-Carbon County); and outpatient laboratory services.

Dr. Plavin, who considers Jim Thorpe his hometown, recalls having to travel as a child to Stroudsburg for medical care. His entire family lives nearby in Lake Harmony.

“The Jim Thorpe Health Center will bring these essential and specialty health services closer to home for the members of this great community where I grew up,” said Dr. Plavin, a graduate of the St. Luke’s Rural Family Medicine residency based nearby in Tamaqua. “The goal is to provide top-notch primary care locally and close to home.”

St. Luke’s Nephrology AssociatesCarbon County provides the diagnosis, treatment and management of conditions and diseases of the kidney, including kidney failure, including dialysis-related care, hypertension-related kidney disease, as well as uncontrolled hypertension, polycystic kidney disease and electrolyte abnormalities.

Phase two opening of the Health Center, scheduled for this summer, will expand space for primary care visits and introduce gastrointestinal medicine physicians and other specialists to the town.

According to John Nespoli, president of St. Luke’s Carbon Campus, “Bringing these services to the Jim Thorpe community is another step in the network’s investment to increase access to world-class care that St. Luke’s provides throughout its 14-county service area.”

“On behalf of the board, management team and staff of St. Luke’s Carbon Campus, we are honored to be welcomed as the region’s preeminent health care provider and to partner with our neighbors to improve the health of their community.”

The Jim Thorpe Health Center, located a few doors away at 1104 North St., offers urgent care/walk-in services for bumps, bruises and non-emergent illness, and radiology (x-ray) scans.

The Importance of Vitamin D

MAY 8: No Socks Day

By Jeff Budden Special to The Current

you may see improvements in posture and experience reduced pain in your feet.

By Ariel Mann The Current Contributing Writer

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient critical for proper functioning. Many Americans are getting insufficient amounts of Vitamin D so let’s talk about what it is and why it’s important.

Vitamin D is vital for bone health, calcium absorption, healthy blood pressure, the immune system, healthy aging, and the growth of the cells that make up our bodies.

Research suggests that Vitamin D may also helps regulate mood and reduce risk of depression, decrease the risk of heart disease, and support healthy weight.

How can we improve our Vitamin D levels? Get out into the sunshine!! Sunlight is the best source of this vitamin. We produce Vitamin D naturally when we expose our skin to the sun. Sunscreen can interfere with the absorption of this important nutrient.

Fatty fish, egg yolk, mushrooms, cheese, and fortified foods such as milk contain small amounts of Vitamin D. Vitamin D can also be found in supplement form.

The amount of Vitamin D you need depends on age and health status. A Vitamin D test can determine your level. Normal Vitamin D levels range from 30-80mg/ml. Consult your doctor to order this test and make sure you are getting enough Vitamin D and get out to enjoy the sun on these gorgeous spring days!

Ariel Mann is a nurse turned health coach. Her goal is to help people take charge of their health with realistic changes and improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. She loves helping people love their bodies and live their best and healthiest lives. Check healthbyariel.com to learn more and to schedule a consultation.

Iam a biochemist by training and have worked over 20 years at pharmaceutical and biotech companies, but outside of work I am simply known as, “Barefoot Budden.” I’m typically seen strolling the streets with my toes exposed. My two young kids (and sometimes even my wife) have followed my lead and are often seen running, scooting, biking, and gallivanting with their little piggies running wild. I guess you might call us the “Barefoot Budden Brood.”

When I heard about No Socks Day taking place on May 8, I realized I just might have found my new favorite holiday—and here’s why.

For decades now, I’ve embraced the freedom and joy of my bare feet touching the ground. But this isn’t just a personal preference. There are so many potential benefits to being barefoot outside, for at least 20-30 minutes per day. While shoes and socks obviously reduce the risks of stepping on rocks or dog poo, there are many perks to walking barefoot outside. (Besides fewer socks in your laundry.)

For starters, going barefoot can be linked to improved posture and proper foot growth. The human body developed over millions of years without brand-name shoes. So when you let your foot muscles develop as intended,

Another barefoot bonus is that direct contact with the ground may reduce stress levels. Cortisol is a hormone that is linked to increased stress and reduced blood pressure. And you guessed it—walking barefoot has been linked to reduced cortisol levels.

Another reason to ditch the socks is that exposure to the ground has been shown to reduce cells that cause inflammation. Skin contact with the Earth may lead to higher levels of antioxidants that can help fight inflammation as well.

Barefoot or not, our bodies are covered in bacteria. One of the keys to health is to have “good” bacteria be the predominant kind. Walking barefoot is a natural way to expose our bodies to this bacteria in the grass and soil and helps us soak in all of the goodness.

And who needs socks when you can have calluses? Shoes and socks prevent the formation of calluses, but these are key features of the human body. Calluses can help your feet become stronger and protect your feet in the long run.

Even though every day is No Socks Day for me, I invite you to let your toes run wild and free on May 8 and experience firsthand the benefits of going barefoot. Who knows, it might just become your new favorite holiday, too.

music • entertainment

THURSDAY, MAY 4

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

FREE RANGE FOLK SPRING JAM

Free Range Folk Spring Jam Free Range Folk is an earthy rock band with a cage-free organic sound. FRF grew out of summer campfire jams between friends at 14 Acre Farm, and forges on with that same campfire vibe and group of friends to this day.

Showtime 7:30 PM

mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $18

FRIDAY, MAY 5

PENN’S PEAK

Brothers & Led Zeppelin, to Studio 54 & CBGB – 70’s Flashback’s stellar harmonies & note for note musical re-creations leave their fans with a deeper appreciation for the music of this historic decade!

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM

mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $26

SATURDAY, MAY 13

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

EAGLEMANIA - THE WORLD’S

GREATEST EAGLES TRIBUTE BAND

EagleMania has been dazzling audiences for over a decade by spectacularly reproducing the music of The Eagles. EagleMania thrills internationally sold-out audiences with their stunning five part harmony, virtuoso guitar work and uncanny ability to emulate the distinct sound of The Eagles. The EagleMania show consists of the Eagles’ greatest hits, as well as select Don Henley, Glenn Frey, and Joe Walsh solo efforts.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM

mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $35

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

RANDY HOUSER

With an inimitable voice the New York Times describes as “wholly different, thicker and more throbbing, a caldron bubbling over,” Randy Houser racked up three consecutive No. 1 hits and more than four million in singles sales to date with his Stoney Creek Records album, How Country Feels. He topped the charts with the title track, “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight” and “Goodnight Kiss” (also his first No. 1 as a songwriter).

Tickets $40 - $45

Doors Open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00PM www.pennspeak.com (866) 605-PEAK

SATURDAY, MAY 6

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

GET POISON’D - A TRIBUTE TO POISON

This band is simply the most realistic Poison tribute you will ever see or hear. Their performance is an amazing trip back to the Pop and Glam Metal era that should not be missed. From their high energy performance to their authentic sound and vocals, you will be amazed at their extraordinary tribute to Poison.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM

mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $230

FRIDAY, MAY 12

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

ANA POPOVIC

Internationally renowned guitarist Ana Popovic has built her career on defining and describing, on her own terms, the essence of American music, simultaneously pushing limits, bending genres, and reinventing her music and herself with each new record. She’s shown her commitment to celebrating her guitar-driven, eclectic music style through consistent touring, awards, and recognition for the past 25 years. In the process, she’s emerged as one of the most thoughtful, dynamic, and committed performers in modern songwriting and guitar.

Doors open 6:30 PM – Showtime 7:30 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $31

THURSDAY, MAY 18

PENN’S PEAK

FRIDAY, MAY 19

PENN’S PEAK

WARRANT AND FIREHOUSE

At its core, WARRANT is an American rock band through and through. Hitting it big in 1989, the Hollywood, CA based band rose through the ranks of the local Sunset Strip scene to the level of multiplatinum selling, chart-topping success. The band first came into the national spotlight with their debut album Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich.

Tickets $38 - $43

Doors Open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00PM www.pennspeak.com (866) 605-PEAK

SATURDAY, MAY 20

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24

PENN’S PEAK

THE PATSY CLINE TRIBUTE SHOW

The legendary Patsy Cline comes to life once again in the national touring show Memories of Patsy. This incredible tribute concert takes its audience on a trip back in time to the days when the amazing singer graced the stages of America. Some of the great tunes you can expect to hear at a Memories of Patsy performance are: Crazy, Walkin’ After Midnight, I Fall to Pieces, She’s Got You, San Antonio Rose, Blue Moon of Kentucky, Sweet Dreams and many more.

For tickets please call 877-SO-GO-EAT

Doors Open 712:15 PM – Showtime 1:00PM

www.pennspeak.com (866) 605-PEAK

CLASSIC STONES LIVE - TRIBUTE TO THE ROLLING STONES

Frontman Keith Call has all of the moves and swagger of Mick Jagger, and along with his partner in crime Bernie Bollendorf, who portrays rock and roll outlaw Keith Richards, they complete the duo notoriously hailed as “The Glimmer Twins”. Their jaw-dropping resemblance to these two rock and roll icons is simply amazing, but what truly makes Classic Stones Live™ unique, is their musical prowess, attention to detail, and the spot on renditions of all of your favorite Rolling Stones “classics”!

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $35

SUNDAY, MAY 21

PENN’S PEAK

DARK STAR ORCHESTRA - CELEBRATING

THE GRATEFUL DEAD EXPERIENCE

Dark Star Orchestra offers much more than the sound of the Grateful Dead, they truly encapsulate the energy and the experience. It’s about a sense of familiarity. It’s about a feeling that grabs listeners and takes over. It’s about that contagious energy...in short, it’s about the complete experience and consistent quality show that the fan receives when attending a Dark Star Orchestra show.

Tickets $33 - $40

Doors Open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00PM

www.pennspeak.com (866) 605-PEAK

TUESDAY, MAY 23

PENN’S PEAK

EVENT SCHEDULE

Friday May 5th @ 5:00 - 8:00pm

First Friday Artist ReceptionChrissy Donadi

Come experience the exquisite nature photography of Chrissy Donadi, enjoy complimentary appetizers, and meet the artist! Her work will be available for viewing or purchase during Wild Elder daily operating hours 11:00am - 5:00pm for the month of May. A portion of all art sales will be donated to Carbon County Environmental Center

Friday May 12th @ 6:30 - 9:30pm

Wild Elder Open Mic

Hosted by Peaches & Wine

Come share songs you’ve written or show us your take on something else! All creatives including poets, comics, musicians are welcome!

Saturday May 13th @ 7:00pm

“Conjure Your Own” Class

Join local body products apothecary Conjured for an evening of artistry at our first “Conjure Your Own” class at Wild Elder. Participants will have their choice to create two of the following provisions: bath salt, body mist, or sugar scrub; personalized to their preference with fragrances, colorings, herbs, and more. Ticket price is $42.00 which includes two custom body care items (crafted by you!) and a Wild Elder beverage flight. Register at conjuredshop.com

Thursday May 18th @ 5:30 - 7:00pm

Wild Elder Book Club

70S’s FLASHBACK

70’s Flashback is an 8-piece show band, performing remarkable enactments of the greatest music of the 1970’s. Comprised of 7 veteran musicians, 70’s Flashback pays tribute to the greatest groups and artists of the decade – and through their true passion for the music, bring that original excitement to both a new generation & to those who experienced it the first time! From Carole King & Three Dog Night, to The Doobie

TRAVIS

TRITT

Thirty years after Travis Tritt launched his music career, the Southern rock-influenced artist continues to sell-out shows and stay true and relevant to country music fans across the globe. Continuously performing shows and withholding a heavy appearance schedule, Tritt is proving to be unstoppable.

Tickets $48 - $56

Doors Open 6:00 PM – Showtime 8:00PM www.pennspeak.com (866) 605-PEAK

This month’s book is Path Lit by Lightning by David Maraniss, join us for a bite, a drink, and good conversation about the legendary man for whom our town is named...and stick around afterwards for a house concert with Dave Wilson!

Thursday, May 18th @ 7:00 - 9:00pm

A CELEBRATION OF THREE AMERICAN TROUBADOURS -

TAYLOR, SIMON, & KING

The lives and careers of three iconic singers, James Taylor, Carly Simon and Carole King, have always overlapped and interlinked — and their music is unforgettable. The new tribute show, Taylor Simon King, explores these musical icons through clever musical arrangements and selection of carefully chosen songs. Headlined by Lisa Sherman — with a talented band consisting of Byron Smith, Mary McCrink, Gary Oleyar, Ralph Notaro, Tommy Labella, Lance Stark, Mario Casella, Todd Sherman, and Sam Sherman— Taylor Simon King is a towering tribute to three American troubadours. For tickets please call 877-SO-GO-EAT

Doors Open 712:15 PM – Showtime 1:00PM www.pennspeak.com (866) 605-PEAK

Dave Wilson - Live Music on the Patio Wild Elder and High Street Guest House are partnering to bring amazing folk/ bluegrass musician Dave Wilson. This songwriter, singer, journeyman guitarist is best known for his years fronting Raleigh, North Carolina’s Chatham County Line. Dave is a flatpicking southern gentleman, passing through town on a northeast solo tour.

Thursday May 25th @ 7:00 - 9:00pm

Brett Andrew - Live Music on the Patio

Description: Brett Andrew is a down to earth rocker whose 20+ year musical resume includes leading his own 8-piece party band and a soulful trio to sharing the stage as guitarist with acts such as Robert Randolph, Craig Thatcher, and Free Range Folk. Special guests Justine Williams and Kyle O’Brien (of Honey & Nutz). www.wildelder.com

76 Broadway in Jim Thorpe (570) 732-9933

music • entertainment

EVENT SCHEDULE

May 5 - DMC Duo - 9:00pm

DMC Duo: This incredible combo performs an awesome mix of rock, pop, country, and oldies, DMC Duo truly has something for everyone. Show starts at 9 pm but get there early for food and drink specials.

May 20 - Achilles Heart -9:00pm

This father and son team has been packing the 80’s bar. Featuring some heart stopping guitar work, you need to catch this show to see what the buzz is about. Playing all the great hits of the 80’s and beyond!

May 27 - The Big Boss - 9:00pm

A master of the guitar and vocals, Steve Smith brings down the house every time. They call him the Big Boss as his sound dominates the room. Food and drink specials pre-show.

TOTALLY REAL • TOTALLY

the humor of day-to-day situations as well as serving up resplendent rants on world events. Through precise physical timing and impeccable audience insight, he has honed his talents while performing from hole in the wall clubs to sold out theaters. Bobby Collins’ rise to top headlining, comedic master was inevitable. A native New Yorker, Collins possesses a confidence and genuine everyman likeability that can only be earned.

Showtime 8:00 PM

mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $33

SATURDAY, MAY 27

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

Playing Classic Rock of the 60’s, 70’s and Signature Hits of the 80’s

FRIDAY, JUNE 2

PENN’S PEAK

LEONID & FRIENDS

THURSDAY, MAY 25

PENN’S PEAK

THE BREAKERS: A TRIBUTE TO TOM PETTY

The country’s premier Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers tribute band. Established to let the fans of the late great Tom Petty continue to enjoy the live experience of TP & the HB’s. No other Tom Petty tribute band comes close to capturing the SOUND and emotions of Tom’s songs quite like the Breakers. Unlike the vast amount of Tom Petty tributes who substitute visual mimicry for sound, the Breakers encompass the true unmistakable sound and execution of Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM

mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $29

THURSDAY, JUNE 1

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

JACOB JOLLIFF BAND

The Jacob Jolliff Band is the next generation of bluegrass supergroups, led by one of the country’s premier contemporary bluegrass mandolinists. Before joining Yonder Mountain String Band, Jacob Jolliff founded beloved New England roots band Joy Kills Sorrow, while attending Berklee School of Music on a full scholarship. In 2012, Jolliff had the distinctive honor of being named the National Mandolin Championship winner. A fixture of the national bluegrass community, he has collaborated and shared the stage with Darol Anger, Sam Bush, Ronnie McCoury, Jerry Douglas, Chris Thile, and David Grisman to name a few.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 7:30 PM

mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249

Tickets $24

STILL SURFIN’A TRIBUTE TO THE BEACH BOYS

Based in Washington, D.C., Still Surfin’ is a professional Beach Boys tribute band. Each member has a unique and extensive musical background. The band’s common love for the harmonies and deceivingly difficult arrangements of the Beach Boys brought them together to perform this timeless, beautiful music. The Beach Boys music is recognized by audiences of all ages. The band’s authentic, retro look take the audience back to a simpler, happy time when cars and surfing ruled.

For tickets please call 877-SO-GO-EAT

Doors Open 712:15 PM – Showtime 1:00PM www.pennspeak.com (866) 605-PEAK

FRIDAY, MAY 26

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

BOBBY COLLINS (COMEDY NIGHT)

Comedian Bobby Collins has an ability to truthfully translate the human condition. Audiences across the country relate to his comedic characterizations as he exposes

In just three short years, LEONID & FRIENDS have blown the minds of legions of fans with their uncanny ability to capture the spirit, musicality, and fire of American supergroup Chicago. Leonid Vorobyev’s goal was a studio project in dedication to Chicago under the motto “musicians for musicians”. They have since expanded their repertoire to include Earth Wind & Fire, Blood Sweat & Tears, Ides of March, Stevie Wonder, Steely Dan, Deep Purple, and new original material. This incredible 11-piece band now has over 600,000 followers across social media, an astonishing 120 million+ video views, and over 200 successful US shows under their belt.

Tickets $29 - $34

Doors Open 6:00 PM – Showtime 8:00PM www.pennspeak.com (866) 605-PEAK

FRIDAY, JUNE 2

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

not continue, “The Mission” will. So please join us as we take The Bluesmobile out for one last ride and pay tribute to the music and legacy of the original Blues Brothers!”

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $29

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

AWAKEN - THE MUSIC OF YES

Awaken is comprised of extremely talented and seasoned musicians dedicated to celebrating the music of Yes. By combining elements from the original studio recordings along with the inspirational power of past live Yes performances, Awaken provides a truly authentic and dramatic musical experience that will impress even the most critical and passionate fans of the band they pay tribute to.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $30

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

PENN’S PEAK

MAGICAL MYSTERY DOORSBEATLES, ZEPPELIN, DOORS TRIBUTE

Magical Mystery Doors is a tribute act that blends and layers the music of three legendary bands to create something new and unique for music fans everywhere. The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and The Doors. These three iconic groups have changed the face of music as we know it. Their songs have become part of our history. Their melodies have moved people everywhere to “Come Together” in their love of music. Patrons attending a Magical Mystery Doors performance can expect to hear timeless tunes from each of these historic bands over the course of the night.

Tickets $23 - $28

BLUES BROTHERHOOD -

TRIBUTE TO THE BLUES BROTHERS

“After nearly 20 years, The Blues Brotherhood...The Ultimate Tribute to The Blues Brothers, are saying goodbye. Jake and Elwood are returning to the service of the state for a long stretch. Although the band will

RIVERWALCK SALOON

Doors Open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00PM www.pennspeak.com (866) 605-PEAK

Broadway Grille + Underground

SATURDAY, MAY 6

LIVE MUSIC: JON DRESSLER 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

THURSDAY, MAY 18 OPEN MIC W/ MATT FILER

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343

DMC Duo

Honoring the Ultimate Sacrifice…

By Yvonne Wright The Current Contributing Writer

It seems as though humanity’s indelible footprint on the Earth’s geographical strata has not established itself unchallenged and without conflict, but rather it has been plagued with territorial invasions and subjugating conquests - all of which has cast heart wrenching shadows over millennia. There have been many brave warriors lost in combat who paid the ultimate sacrifice defending their homelands. They fought foes that threatened their freedoms, tribal identities and upheld values; defended trade routes and religious sovereignties; and guarded communities from harm and danger. Many warrior leaders were immortalized for their courage, to be revered by generations that followed, while others faded into anonymity, forgotten on the battlefields of history.

as brave as the Romans, the Gauls were known to fight naked, proudly displaying their battle scars on their bodies - Julius Caesar regarded it as a foolish tactic and one that guaranteed an easier victory, eventually conquering and absorbing the whole of the Gallic territories by 58 BCE.

Unearthed circa 1623 and attributed by some scholars to Epigonus of Pergamon, the statue serves as a reminder of the Celts’ defeat, demonstrating the might of the people who conquered them. However, it is also a memorial to Celtic bravery as worthy opponents. The dying Gaul is presented here with compassion, admiration and a hint of wary respect - signifying a highly compelling tribute paid by the victorious to the defeated. Since its discovery, The Dying Gaul has been one of the most celebrated sculptures in art history, inspiring hundreds of replicas in a variety of materials, copied by the artists for whom it represents the ultimate canon for depicting heroic death. Its pathos commemorates a military victory, while at the same time acknowledging the high cost of military conflict. Thomas Jefferson fell in love with The Dying Gaul and coveted the original, but wasn’t able to acquire it - today, it can be viewed at the Capitoline Museum in Rome, Italy.

In the United States, the start of summer is often associated with observance of the Memorial Day Weekend during which “American citizens reflect on the sacrifice of those who have given their lives in military service in all of America’s wars.” Many people attend parades, visit military cemeteries, display American flags at their homes, wear red, white and blue, and watch the National Memorial Day Concert, or military marchers in Revolutionary War–era soldiers’ uniforms to honor those who bravely fought and died in the establishment of the United States. It is also customary for the president to give a speech honoring the contributions of the fallen heroes and to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Some southern states (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, South and North Carolina) set aside a special day for honoring the Confederate dead, which is usually called Confederate Memorial Day, or Confederate Heroes’ Day (in Texas). New York City’s Fleet Week celebrates the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, while honoring those who were killed in the armed forces.

Today, nations around the globe host a variety of formal services honoring and remembering those men and women who perished in military service. In the United States, Memorial Day observances symbolically began on May 5th, 1866, when the town of Waterloo, New York, announced a city-wide Decoration Day encouraging its citizens to mourn and honor the Civil War dead by informally adorning the soldiers’ graves with flags and spring flowers - turning the occasion into an annual, communitywide event during which many businesses were closed. In 1868, by proclamation of General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, the first major Decoration Day ceremony was held at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia during which hundreds of participants helped to festoon the graves of more than 20,000 fallen Union and Confederate soldiers. General Logan also proposed that Decoration Day should take place on May 30, as it was a neutral date for both sides of the Civil War, and “when flowers would be in full bloom by then to decorate graves.” In the following decades, Decoration Day transitioned into Memorial Day and in 1968 the US Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, establishing it as a federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May, declaring also the historic town of Waterloo “as the official birthplace of Memorial Day.”

From an art history perspective, one of the most evocative sculptures to have survived from antiquity depicts the courage and noble qualities of a fallen warrior. Made of white marble and known today as The Dying Gaul or The Dying Galatian, the statue’s semi-recumbent pose exudes bravery and self-control. The exceptional realism in depicting the nude slumped in pain narrates the pathos of dying. It is a man of splendid physique, cut down in the prime of his life and, while numbing coldness takes away feelings of pain and fear, he anticipates to rest with his gods. A sense of acceptance emanates from his weakening body, as sounds of the battlefield are dimming… Identified as a Gallic warrior by means of the Celtic metal torque around his neck and characteristic full head of hair and mustache, the warrior rests on a broken shield, propping up his fallen body with his right arm - a sword, belt and curved Gallic carnyx (a wind instrument) lay on the ground beside him. Blood dripping from the chest wound in the lower part of his torso heralds an inevitable demise. Militarily

This year the Memorial Day observance falls on May 29th. At its heart, it is a grateful but solemn celebration for the life we live today that was provided by the sacrifices of generations before us. It is not advisable to wish somebody a “Happy Memorial Day” because it may be insensitive to a person grieving the loss of a loved one. It is considered appropriate to write letters to families of fallen troops, and honor the dead by supporting the living, especially wounded servicemen. The National Moment of Remembrance Act encourages every citizen to “pause each Memorial Day at 3 p.m. local time to remember the brave men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” while Flag etiquette on Memorial Day requires that “at sunrise, flags are to be raised to full staff briskly, then lowered to half staff position, where they would remain until noon.”

Yvonne Wright is the owner of STUDIO YNW at 100 West Broadway in Jim Thorpe. She can be reached at studio.ynw@gmail.

Dying Gaul, white marble. The Capitoline Museum.

Arlington National Cemetery. Virginia

who are interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement or the military. During the camp, cadets work on team-building exercises, physical fitness training, classroom activities involving police and military careers, and a marksmanship course.

Bill Aims to Increase Early Literacy

With nearly half of Pennsylvania fourthgrade students reading below their gradelevel, legislation to advance early literacy has been introduced with bipartisan support in the state House.

Recognizing that childhood reading difficulties have negative impacts well into adulthood, House Bill 998 would create a three-stage approach to identify and address children with reading difficulties.

First, the legislation would create an evidence-based reading curriculum. Next, a universal screening would be created, beginning in the first 30 days of school, to identify struggling readers. Finally, using the screening data, schools would design and implement intervention plans to prevent children from falling behind.

The bill has been referred to the House Education Committee.

LIHEAP Heating Assistance Program Extended to May 12

The deadline to apply for assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has been extended to Friday, May 12.

LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps individuals and families pay their heating bills through home heating energy assistance grants. It also provides crisis grants to help in the event of an emergency or if a resident is in danger of losing his or her heat due to broken equipment, lack of fuel or termination of utility service.

The income eligibility guidelines for LIHEAP are set at 150% of the federal

poverty income level.

Residents may apply for LIHEAP online at www.compass.state.pa.us, by phone at 1-866-550-4355 or by contacting the Carbon County Assistance Office toll-free at 1-800-314-0963 or by using the designated LIHEAP numbers: LIHEAP (cash) 610577-9073 or LIHEAP (crisis) 866-410-2093.

Getting Out In the Community

Last month, I celebrated with Porvaznik’s Flowers owner and florist, Megan Anderson, for the 125th anniversary open house celebration.

Applications Open for Youth Camp

The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) in collaboration with the Pennsylvania National Guard and American Legion are seeking applicants for its annual youth camp. The Elmer Hafer-American Legion-State Police-National Guard Youth Camp will be held June 11-17, at Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County.

The six-day summer leadership camp is designed for teenagers, ages 15-17,

Anyone interested in applying for the camp must:

• Be between the ages of 15 and 17 prior to entering the camp and not reach the age of 18 during the camp.

• Not have previously attended the camp.

• Possess a good academic record, be physically fit and be in good health.

The camp is free of charge as their local American Legion post sponsors their attendance. Interested applicants can read more about the camp by visiting pa-legion. com. The application can be found here. It must be returned to the applicant’s local American Legion by May 15.

Applications Now Open for State Police Academy

Considering a career in law enforcement? The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) is actively recruiting individuals for three upcoming cadet classes.

Applicants to the State Police Academy must be at least 20 years old by the date their application is completed. They must be at least 21 years old and cannot have reached their 40th birthday before their appointment as a cadet.

After graduation from the academy, a trooper’s starting base salary will be $65,763. Members and their dependents are eligible for no-cost medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage.

Spotted Lanternflies Are Hatching

Now that May is here, many of us will encounter spotted lanternflies (SLF), an invasive insect that has now spread through 51 of 67 Pennsylvania counties since its

initial discovery in 2014.

SLF feeds on the plant sap of many different plants including grapevines, maples, black walnut and other important plants in PA. If you see SLF, Penn State Extension encourages you to report it by calling their hotline at 1-888-422-3359.

If You’re Traveling, Be Aware

With more and more people choosing to travel internationally again, the time to renew and issue passports has increased significantly.

According to the U.S. Department of State, the current processing time for routine passport applications is 10-13 weeks, and for expedited applications it is 7-9 weeks.

If you’re looking to travel internationally and either don’t have a passport or have an expired one, be sure to gather the necessary paperwork and submit your application as soon as possible.

Grant Program to Advance Broadband Deployment to Open Soon

The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority announced recently it will start disbursing $200 million of federal funding for the Pennsylvania Broadband Infrastructure Program.

Businesses, nonprofits, municipalities and economic development organizations are eligible to receive these grants to provide affordable high-speed internet to residents in unserved and underserved areas of the Commonwealth.

Grant recipients must provide affordable services that includes at least one low-cost option offered at speeds that are sufficient for a household with multiple users to simultaneously telework and engage in remote learning. Applications will be accepted starting Wednesday, May 10, through Monday, July 10.

Come Rub Elbows with the Future Leaders of Carbon County!

Leadership Carbon is proud to announce the graduation of its 2023 class! On Wednesday, May 10, from 57 p.m., the community is invited to join in the celebration of the 18th annual Leadership Carbon graduating class at the Lehighton American Legion Post 314. Tickets are now on sale until April 28. Visit https://tinyurl.com/LCclassof23.

Leadership Carbon is a premier adult leadership development program designed to cultivate knowledgeable, action-oriented community leaders through the exploration of important local issues and services, behind the scenes view of what makes Carbon work and build lasting relationships that empower classmates to come together to ensure a bright future for the county.

“Leadership Carbon provides resources and tools to be a productive influence in the betterment of Carbon County,” Program Facilitator and Assistant Director of Workforce Development for LCCC, Maureen Donovan said.

The 9-month long program was created in 2005 and has graduated over 191 students.

“Leadership Carbon is an amazing opportunity no matter where you’re at in your career,” said graduating class member Gabrielle Elsasser. “If you’re looking to take your career to the next level, or refine your leadership style, or looking for amazing networking opportunities and to make new friends or just make a positive impact in Carbon County, Leadership Carbon is for you!”

The Wednesday event showcases not only the graduates but the results of their teamwork for this year’s project, an inclusive Carbon County Community Calendar where organizations will be able to enter their events for the public to view. Guests will enjoy a family-style dinner. Singer/songwriter Damian Walck will serenade the crowd throughout the evening. Guests will also have the

opportunity to enter raffles for a chance to win one-of-a-kind baskets donated from community businesses.

Tickets for the dinner event are $35 and include the graduation ceremony, meal, drink ticket, and desserts. Sponsorship opportunities are available. To purchase tickets, visit https://tinyurl. com/LCclassof23 by April 28, 2023.

Join us in congratulating 2023 Leadership Carbon graduates!

Zachery Christman

The Jim Christman Team at Keller Williams

Gabrielle Elsasser

Pencor

Nadine Fisher

St. Luke’s Carbon Campus

Connie Hoffman

Owner/Baker Wild & Free Bakery

Leah Jones

The Jim Christman Team at Keller Williams

Myrisa Kates

St. Luke’s Carbon Campus

Louisa Krause

Mauch Chunk Trust

Marsha Macalush

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley

Alissa Mathisen

St. Luke’s Carbon Campus

Jason Shellhammer

County of Carbon

Emily Shook

Pencor

Jodi Smale

Lehigh Valley Hospital - Carbon

Tyler Smarr

Mauch Chunk Trust

Tami Trimbur

Lehigh Valley Hospital - Carbon

Terri Trotter

CSF Buxmont Academy

Rhonda Wenrich

Interested in joining the class of 2024 and finding out what all the buzz is about? Contact the Carbon Chamber and Economic Development office (610) 3795000. Leadership Carbon offers a unique opportunity for community members to become future leaders and make a difference right here in Carbon County.

Private Wealth Management for Individuals, Families and Not-for-Profit Organizations

Fiduciary Advice for Accredited Investors

600 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10020

Telephone 212.221.5300 • www.bridgewateradv.com

For more information, contact: Leo V. Marzen lmarzen@bridgewateradv.com

Art With A View 2023

Tickets and sponsorships are now available to purchase for this year’s Art with a View fundraiser to benefit the Carbon County Creative Arts Fund.

Join us for this classy cocktail reception showcasing the work of local artists. Sales of artwork at the event will benefit artists, with a portion of the proceeds also going to the Fund, which aims to foster the arts scene regionally. It truly is a win-win!

$50/Person | $90/Couple

Includes Light Fare, Hors D’oeuvres, Entertainment, & Cash Bar

Arts Patron: $150

Includes Sponsorship Listing, (2) Event Tickets, & (2) Drink Tickets

Lifetime Achievement Award

This year, the Creative Arts Fund Steering Committee is thrilled to pay tribute to Edith Roeder soon to celebrate her 103rd birthday, for her lifetime achievement in the arts. Attendees at ‘Art with a View’ will be treated to a showing Edie’s work, featuring a variety of subjects to showcase the range of her career.

Carbon County Hotel Tax Disbursement Program Accepting Applications

The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau has announced the opening of applications for the Carbon County Room Tax Allocation Committee (RTAC) to apply for tourism-related projects.

Interested non-profit organizations in Carbon County are encouraged to apply for funding by April 30, for awards to be disbursed by June 30, or apply no later than September 30, 2023, for disbursement to be awarded Nov. 30, 2023. Applications can be submitted online or by mail.

The RTAC will evaluate all applications and recommend funding to the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, Inc. (PMVB) for final approval. Invoices from vendors for approved marketing expenditures will be sent directly to PMVB for payment up to the amount funded by the RTAC subject to payment guidelines established by the PMVB. According to ACT 18, the funds can only be used for marketing projects to promote tourism in the County. Projects

that include construction or other non-marketing related activities do not qualify.

Funded program recipients may be required to submit a summary of all expenditures and project details to the RTAC within 12 months of the conclusion of the funded project. PMVB branding guidelines will be provided to each program.

For more information or to download the application visit the Carbon County Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC) website or contact Brian Bossuyt, Vice President of Marketing (PMVB), at bbossuyt@poconos.org or (570) 534-4543.

“Spring Fling” Breakfast & Master your Membership Workshop

Join us on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 from 7:30am-9:30am at the CCEDC Office for our Spring Fling Breakfast & Master Your Membership Workshop.

Spring into taking positive action for your business!

Enjoy a lite breakfast and networking!

Learn how to leverage your CCEDC and GLVCC member benefits to help your business grow in 2023!

Discover new promotional strategies and online member tools to help you stand out in 2023! Includes a review of the CCEDC website, free and paid ways to advertise and promote your business and a walk-thru of the CCEDC Member Information Center. (Feel free to bring your laptop to follow along!)

All attendees will receive special exclusive pricing on CCEDC Advertising!

Please note that the program may run until 10:00 am.

Seats are limited! Registration is required. Register online or call 610-379-5000.

This workshop is free for Chamber Members! | $10 for Future Members

St. Luke’s #1 in Pennsylvania for Charitable Giving

St. Luke’s University Health Network has been identified by the Lown Institute for the second year in a row as the No. 1 health system in Pennsylvania for charitable giving.

St. Luke’s is the only health system in the Lehigh Valley with a “fair share” surplus, meaning it spends more on charity and community investment than it receives in tax breaks, according to Lown.

No hospital in Pennsylvania had a greater surplus than St. Luke’s University Hospital in Fountain Hill. Five additional St. Luke’s hospitals – Anderson, Miners, Monroe and Upper Bucks campuses and Geisinger St. Luke’s Hospital – were among the 20 hospitals in the state with a surplus.

“This report’s findings confirm St. Luke’s longstanding commitment to the communities we serve,” said St. Luke’s Vice President of Community Health Rajika Reed, PhD., MPH, MEd. “Our community-based initiatives include early childhood education, adolescent career development, employment assistance, workforce development and safe housing assistance as well as physical and mental health care.

“At St. Luke’s University Health Network, our culture and values dictate our deep investment and engagement in our communities, from downtown neighborhoods to rural enclaves – which is why St. Luke’s has been widely recognized nationally, regionally and locally for our service and dedication.”

See the Lown Institute’s full report: https://lownhospitalsindex. org/2023-top-hospitals-fair-share-spending/

The Lown Institute calculated fair share spending based on 2020 IRS Form 990. Fair share deficits and surpluses for each system were calculated by balancing the estimated value of hospital systems’ tax exemptions against the amount systems spent on charity care and community investment— including community health improvement activities, contributions to community groups, community building activities, and subsidized healthcare services.

St. Luke’s fair share surplus stands in stark contrast to the fair share deficits of the vast majority of other health care systems locally and across the country.

According to Lown research, St. Luke’s University Hospital spent $16,364,000 more on charity care and community investments than the estimated value of its tax exemption. The other five St. Luke’s hospitals’ surpluses totaled nearly $12 million:

Upper Bucks Campus ($5,810,000)

Miners Campus ($2,994,000)

Anderson Campus ($1,589,000)

Geisinger St. Luke’s Hospital ($754,000)

Monroe Campus ($629,000)

Vikas Saini, M.D., president of the Lown Institute, said that given the growing crises in medical debt and chronic disease, “we need hospitals to give their fair share now more than ever. The hospitals topping our list have proven they have what it takes to be great community partners.”

Monroe Campus President Don Seiple (center) and other volunteers from St. Luke’s work on a community garden.