The Jim Thorpe Current - December 2022

PBLA Announces Jim Thorpe as 9th Team

The Professional Box Lacrosse Association (PBLA) announced that its ninth team for its inaugural season will be the “JIM THORPE ALL-AMERICANS.” The league also announced that its championship trophy will be named the “Jim Thorpe Trophy” in honor of Jim Thorpe, a man many consider to be the greatest American athlete of the last century. Thorpe, a Native American, was an Olympic Gold Medalist, a Major League Baseball player, and a Hall of Fame football player. He was also a great high school lacrosse player.

“When we created the PBLA, we kept coming back to our desire to give the greatest American athletes the opportunity to showcase their world-class skills,” said league commissioner, Steve Donner.

Donner added, “Jim Thorpe was the first great multisport hero who performed on the world stage. He was a Native American as well as the greatest American athlete. We want to showcase the

Pocono Festivals That Will Get You Into The Holiday Spirit

By Natalya Bucuy The Current Contributing Writer

Sometimes in the late fall, perhaps at the first signs of frost, we get that feeling that perhaps we’re not ready for the winter. We want to hold on to those cool but still warm days and watch the brilliant autumn colors bloom in the sunshine. And then Christmas lights come on, decorations come out of the attic, and the exciting busyness of the holiday season kicks in. And as we wrap ourselves in warm blankets and wait for the first snowfall, we welcome the joyful season of Christmas.

In the Poconos, the land of ski lodges and cozy small towns, the season showcases its magic to the fullest. Whether you enjoy shopping, mingling at an alternative party, or strolling through small-town streets lit up with festive lights, there is something for everyone to get into the holiday spirit.

DECEMBER 3 - 18.

With its already picturesque setting, Jim Thorpe turns into true Christmas magic land in December. The downtown transforms into a scene in Victorian times, and festivities fill its streets. The tree lighting ceremony in Josiah White Park on Fri. Dec. 2 will kick off the event at 5 pm. Santa will arrive by firetruck at 6 pm to light the Jim Thorpe Christmas tree. The festival continues over the next two days and for two consecutive weekends after. Strolling carolers and musicians, holiday shopping, and free family activities are all the reasons to keep coming back all season long.

Throughout Olde Time Christmas, visitors can enjoy train rides with Santa, a gingerbread house display, and children’s story time at the Dimmick Memorial Library. Other activities worth checking Continued on page 13

Hofford Mill Showcases Small Business Resilience and Transformation Through Time

By Natalya Bucuy The Current Contributing Writer

The story of Hofford Mill is an inspirational one. It’s a tale of business transformation through the pandemic, an everchanging family dream, and of resilience through tough times.

As Kate McEvilly, the owner and CEO of the entertainment center, puts it, opening Hofford Mill has been “a whirlwind adventure.” Originally built in 1896 as a lumber mill, the structure on Bridge Street had operated as a general store, a furniture repair facility, a soap factory, a silk mill, and a hosiery company. McEvilly’s family owned the building and used it as a storage facility until recently when an idea to transform the space into an attraction sparked.

“We wanted to make use of a large chunk of the space to create income and better use of the building,” McEvilly says. “Initially, I got the idea to open up an ax-throwing place from doing it myself. Then, we were planning to bring in a brewery, and things kind of just snowballed from there. Through the planning and construction process, things evolved. When we opened in February 2020, we had a coffee shop, ax throwing, hostile, and a restaurant called The Gorge.”

But that’s where this impressive story really begins. The family opened the restaurant six weeks before the pandemic placed everything on hold. McEvilly had to put all of the stuff on unemployment and fully close down for two weeks. But this hiccup only gave way to more unique ideas to emerge. Together with her mom Lucie, McEvilly decided to

When it comes to your child, you only want the best for them. From simple to complex cardiac issues, turn to the team you TRUST. Our pediatric cardiologists work closely with your child’s pediatrician, sports medicine providers, imaging technologists and other pediatric or prenatal specialists. Our collaborative approach enables us to create comprehensive and customized management plans from infants to teens.

The heart care you trust for kids. Now more than ever.

ENJOY A TRUE SMALL-TOWN CHRISTMAS AT OLDE TIME CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL IN JIM THORPE:

The CURRENT

Ring in 2023 at Jim Thorpe’s Beautiful Mauch Chunk Ballroom with Favorite Local Band The Bee’s Knees

The doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the band begins at 8:00 p.m. Enjoy our very special buffet dinner with dessert and a champagne toast to the new year. We also have a limited cash bar. Our gorgeous dance floor is made for those shoes to fly around the room or glide away. Enjoy taking photos in our selfie station and try our 50/50 chance. The cost is $40.00 per person or $75.00 a couple. You may pay cash or use your credit and/or debit cards at the door. We request you make advance reservations by calling the Mauch Chunk Museum at 570-325-9190. Also advance payment can be made with your credit or debit cards by calling 570-325-9190.

Upcoming 2023 Event: Our Victorian Ball is back on Saturday evening, May 20, 2023. Watch for details in the future on our website and Facebook page. You can make reservations by calling 570-325-9190.

For the future, please consider

By

experiencing Mauch Chunk (now known as Jim Thorpe) by visiting our Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center. We are open for visitors on the first floor of our building at 41 W. Broadway in Jim Thorpe. This award-winning museum is dedicated to the local and nearby history. The Story of Mauch Chunk, the theme of the museum’s core exhibition, leads the visitors through the ages from the geological formation of coal in prehistoric times to the present. It focuses on such topics as the Lenape Indians, the discovery and mining of “black diamonds” (anthracite coal), the settlement of Mauch Chunk, the scramble to build waterways and railroads to transport coal to eastern seaboard cities, the unique Switchback Gravity Railroad, and Mauch Chunk in its industrial golden age.

Museum Hours of Operation: Open 11 am to 5 pm; April and May: Friday to Sunday; June through October: Friday to Tuesday; November and December: Friday to Sunday until Christmas; January through March: Closed except by appointment. Admission: $10.00 (ages 12 and older) (Ages 11 and under FREE). Group rates available for groups of 10 or more. Call 570-325-9190 for more information. Our website is: www.mauchchunkmcc.org

Our ballroom is available for weddings and special events. For more information, please contact Dana Reed, our Ballroom Special Events Coordinator. Her telephone number is 516-375-7407. Email: Ballroomatmauchchunkmcc@gmail.com

We look forward to seeing you. Happy Holidays!

John Drury, Mauch Chunk Museum President, with Karliene Zack, Museum Director

John Drury and Barbara Mumma Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center, Inc.

Locals and visitors alike annually look forward to sharing this very special evening of celebration and fun in our lovely Ballroom located on the 2nd floor of the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center at 41 West Broadway in Jim Thorpe. Join us this New Year’s Eve with our loved local band The Bee’s Knees. They will entertain us with their memorable rock and roll music and danceable tunes.

Bill Eckert of The Bee’s Knees

The Bee’s Knees

Dana Reed Ballroom Special Events Coordinator

Mauch Chunk Ballroom tables set for a party

What’s New at Pocono Ski Resorts This Season

As temperatures continue to drop and winter conditions fast approach, the Pocono Mountains’ six ski resorts are gearing up for the 2022-2023 season while unveiling new, exciting enhancements on and around the slopes. Known internationally as a premier winter destination, the Poconos is home to the country’s two largest snowtubing parks, cutting-edge snowmaking systems, and award-winning learn-to-ski and snowboard programs led by seasoned instructors.

Big Boulder & Jack Frost Mountain New in 2022-2023

Five new high-speed, four-person chairlifts (three at Jack Frost, two at Big Boulder).

The Epic Lift Upgrade chairlift replacement project has helped create four new trails at Big Boulder.

Blue Mountain Resort New in 2022-2023

A new high-speed lift named the Main Street Express will transport riders from top to bottom in under five minutes and accommodate 3,000 guests per hour. The lift dramatically improves connectivity and access to terrain on the western part of the mountain.

New nighttime, after-dark Sonic Tubing with music and disco lighting. Blue Mountain boasts the country’s largest snowtubing park with 46 lanes, each over 1,000 feet long.

Enhanced snowmaking automation, including new snow guns and LED lighting to make night skiing available on the 40th trail, which opened last season.

A renamed trail, Curzi’s Cabin (previously Widow Maker), serviced by the new Main Street Express and a renamed terrain run, Trails End (previously Terrain Run).

Camelback Mountain New in 2022-2023

A new high-speed, six-person enclosed lift named Black Bear 6 replaces the smaller Sullivan Express. The new lift rises 667 vertical feet with an uphill capacity of 3,000 passengers per hour.

New location for the terrain park and enhancements including automation, new designs, and a Next Gen Pisten Bully Park Pro 400 for creating precise and uniform park builds.

Continued automation advances including updates to last year’s new Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) system, which offers hands-free, streamlined, and efficient lift access. Additionally, SkiLynx is being added to the resort’s app, allowing guests to live-track their total trails, miles, vertical feet, as well as find friends and view real time lift wait times.

Shawnee Mountain New in 2022-2023

As part of a multi-year, multi-milliondollar snowmaking upgrade project, Shawnee has added three new fan guns to the beginner’s area, two efficient snowmaking pumps, and continues to replace pipes across the mountain. Snowmaking covers 100 percent of all Shawnee’s 125 acres of skiable terrain, of which is now 90 percent fully automated.

Replaced all 221 bridge boards, purchased 160 new snow tubes including double tubes for families, large Information Technology upgrades, and cosmetic enhancements across the resort.

Purchased hundreds of new ski boots, skis, snowboards, and snowboard boots. The new Head snowboard system allows snowboards to be stored with the binding on, making the process faster and more efficient for employees and guests.

Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain New in 2022-2023

New rental equipment including snowboards and snowboard boots.

Expanded snowmaking capabilities with the addition of 30 snow guns.

Visit PoconoMountains.com/ SnowConditions for the most up-to-date information regarding ski resort opening dates and snow conditions. Check out our live cameras during the season to see realtime action on your favorite slopes.

photo: Poconomountains.com

Baby Boomers Cafe

Enjoy an original culinary experience with Chef Joe.

Wednesday-Saturday 4-9pm - Reservations Strongly Recommended - Please call after 3pm 570-215-8858 2681 State Road 903, Albrightsville - Only 15 minutes from Jim Thorpe

APPETIZERS

Italian Grilled Cheese 18

Parmesan-crusted Italian bread stuffed with fontina cheese with marinara dipping sauce.

Arancini 10

Stuffed with mozzarella and a smooth vodka sauce.

Bruschetta 11

Chopped mozzarella, tomato, red onion, fresh basil, garlic & oil over garlic crouton.

Lobster Mac & Cheese 18

Sautéed lobster with shallots in a creamy cheese sauce with orecchiette pasta, topped with fontina cheese

Clams Bianco 18

Sautéed with garlic, white wine, clam juice & fresh herbs.

Stuffed Rigatoni 10 with creamy filetto sauce.

Soup de jour 8

Marino’s Salad 12

Belgium endive, arugula, bleu cheese, peanut brittle and toasted pine nuts, topped with a dijon vinaigrette dressing.

Hot Antipasta 25

Stuffed clam, mussels and clams, shrimp, stuffed eggplant, roasted pepper and stuffed artichoke hearts

Caesar 10

PASTAS

Served with soup or salad and Italian bread.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta 21

Sautéed garlic, lemon, white wine, shrimp stock & butter.

Seafood Pescatore 25

Sautéed shrimp, calamari, clams and mussels in a seafood marinara sauce over linguini.

Cappellini Primavera 18

Julienne of garden vegetables. Topped with garlic & oil, red sauce or alfredo sauce.

Rigatoni a la Vodka 18

Rigatoni with onions, sage and prosciutto in a creamy filetto sauce. with chicken/ add 2 with shrimp/ add 4

Tagliatelle & Salmon 25

Sauteed shallots, heavy cream, salt and pepper, fresh salmon and fresh pasta

Fusilli Misto 18

Sautéed chicken, sundried tomatoes, spinach, prosciutto, garlic & oil with fusilli pasta.

Fettucine Alfredo 18 with chicken/add 2 with shrimp/add 4

Linguini with White or Red Clam Sauce 20 with fresh clams

Lasagna Roll 18

Chicken Parmigiana 19

Eggplant Parmigiana (seasonal) 18

BYOB

HOUSE SPECIALTIES

Served with soup or salad and Italian bread.

Chicken Française or Marsala 21 served over pasta

Veal Chop Valdestana 40

Veal chops stuffed with capicola & fontina cheese. Baked to perfection, served with veal demi-glace, potato and vegetable

Chicken Sinatra 20

Sautéed chicken breast with sliced eggplant, prosciuto, roasted red pepper, fresh mozzarella in a white wine sauce over cappellini pasta.

Chicken Oreganata 25

Half a roast chicken with garlic and oregano, roasted potatoes and fresh carrots.

Rib Eye Steak 32 25oz Grilled to perfection

Tomahawk Steak for Two Market Price Served with potato and vegetable Rack of Lamb 30 served with potato and vegetable Stuffed Flounder 30 with a lobster stuffing with shallots and a white wine sauce over spinach.

Cioppino 32 (Italian fish stew) Shrimp, mussels, clams and salmon in a white wine tomato fish stock, served with garlic croutons

DESSERTS

Baby Boomers features a variety of homemade dessert including the best cheescake you will find in the area.

Assorted Homemade Cheesecake Plain 8 / Fruit-topped or Flavored 9 Tiramisu 10 Cannoli 2.50

Profiteroles (3) 9

Baby Boomers Original Pastry Bread Pudding really worth a try 8

No Time to Make Dinner? Staying in an Area Hotel? Let Chef Joe make it for you!

GRAB-n-GO

Available Wed.- Sat 4-9pm. Check availability of our very popular entrées and weekly specials plus homemade seasonal soups and incredible desserts. www.BabyBoomersCafeOnline.com

Make sure to bring your favorite wine with you!

pocono bits

Sanofi Donates $250,000 to Pocono Mountains United Way

A longstanding community partnership continues to serve the public, as Sanofi announced a $250,000 donation to Pocono Mountains United Way (PMUW). This money will be used towards implementing the 2023 Sanofi Signature program that provides support for numerous recently announced programs that Pocono Mountains United Way develops to combat the areas social determinants of health.

“We greatly appreciate our relationship with Sanofi and their desire to build up the community through our work,” said PMUW President/CEO Michael Tukeva. “This money can go a long way to helping Monroe County residents over the next year.”

Sanofi has donated to Pocono Mountains United Way for over 20 years, and in that time over $5 million has been given through corporate donations, match programs, and

workplace campaigns. During the COVID pandemic in 2020, Sanofi also stepped up and donated $50,000 to the Crisis Response Fund which helped Pocono Mountains United Way quickly and effectively serve the community in a time of desperate need.

“Creating a better world requires teamwork, partnerships, and collaboration,” said Phillip St. James, the U.S. CSR & Community Relations Lead at Sanofi U.S. “Partnering with Pocono Mountains United Way these past decades has proven we are better together as we strive to build a better world – starting right here in Monroe County.”

Pocono Mountains United Way thanks Sanofi for the continued support and we look forward to continuing our work in the community to provide equitable, quality education, good healthcare, and financial stability to everyone in Monroe County.

Nominations Open for ‘Gift of Warmth’ Heater

Giveaway

Andreas Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning of Lehighton is wrapping up 2022 with gratitude and is giving back once again by helping a deserving individual or family in need have a warm, reliable winter this year and for years to come. You can help Team Andreas give the “Gift of Warmth” and give away a brand new heating system by entering your nomination at AndreasPlumbing.com/gift-of-warmth from now until December 15, 2022.

Making a difference in someone’s life can take just a few minutes. It’s as simple as writing a short essay or making a short video from the heart and entering your nominee. You can nominate anyone who is experiencing tough financial times, an illness in the family & multiple medical bills, or a job loss. A senior on a fixed income, a U.S. Veteran, and a single parent with children are also eligible. A nominee must be a legal adult, a Pennsylvania resident, and a homeowner. You may not nominate yourself.

Danielle Andreas, Andreas Plumbing’s co-owner, shares, “We are a family-oriented

company, and it has always been our mission to give back to our community. There are so many people who have been financially impacted this year, especially when it comes to rising energy costs. Since the holiday season is now upon us, we think it is the perfect time to give the gift of a new heater. We all know someone who is facing some kind of challenge right now and praying and wishing for some type of assistance and hope. By entering your nominee(s) in this giveaway, you are helping us to make lives better, brighter, and warmer.”

For complete entry details and rules for Andreas Plumbing’s “Gift of Warmth” Heater Giveaway, please visit AndreasPlumbing. com/gift-of-warmth or call 610-377-5261.

PMVB Remembers Longtime Champion of the Poconos

It is with great sadness the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau (PMVB) joins in mourning the passing of one of the region’s strongest advocates and tourism leaders, Robert Uguccioni. Bob, as he was best known, served as the executive director of the PMVB from 1967 to 2007. Uguccioni was also known to many as “Mr. Pocono” for his substantial accomplishments over the years to promote the vitality of the destination to millions of visitors throughout the decades.

Barrett in 2018 to discuss the Poconos’ history and share perspectives on his decades of leadership in the tourism space.

Robert Uguccioni was 87 years old and is survived by his three children as well as grandchildren and numerous friends.

Pocono Mountains United Way Welcomes New Board Members

There are two new board members joining Pocono Mountains United Way (PMUW), as Chef Lyman Winner of The Frogtown Chophouse, and Jamie Schmeelk of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau have made the commitment to join in PMUW’s work.

“Michael Tukeva got me involved in Pocono Mountains United Way,” said Winner. “I’m sure a lot of stories start that way.”

“[Board Chair] Chris Barrett mentioned there was a spot opening and Pocono Mountains United Way needed a treasurer,” said Schmeelk. “I was glad he recognized my work at PMVB and thought of me joining the board in this role. I have worked for nonprofits a majority of my career.”

Lyman Winner’s story in the Poconos started in October of 2006 when he first moved to the area. Fast-forward six years later and The Frogtown Chophouse was opened in 2012 by Winner and his wife. Soon after, he partnered with Eric and Christina Noone in 2013. The Frogtown Chophouse quickly became supporters of Pocono Mountains United Way.

“Bringing a community leader like Lyman Winner onto our board brings a vibrant new energy along with a fresh perspective,” said Pocono Mountains United Way President/ CEO Michael Tukeva. “I look forward to having him as a part of our organization.”

Jamie Schmeelk grew up on the other side of the Delaware River in Phillipsburg, New Jersey. She has always lived in the PA/NJ area but moved closer to home once her kids were born.

“Bob was more than a leader in our industry and the Pocono Mountains, he was a true friend, valued mentor, and confidante to many who relied on his wisdom to confront challenges and to fully appreciate our wonderful destination,” said Chris Barrett, President/CEO of the PMVB. “Promoting the Pocono Mountains was a lifelong commitment to which Bob devoted his full measure. Our deepest sympathies extend to the Uguccioni family, as we are forever indebted to ‘Mr. U’ for all he contributed to promote the Poconos.”

Uguccioni stayed involved in the PMVB long after his retirement and came to the organization from a hospitality background in the mid-1900’s. His family-owned White Beauty View on Lake Wallenpaupack when Uguccioni was young. He then served in the U.S. Air Force overseas before returning home to begin his career in tourism marketing.

“We had three employees, including myself, and a budget of $100,000 a year,” Uguccioni said of his early days at the organization in a Morning Call article upon his retirement in 2007. Over time, the Pocono Mountains grew into a billion-dollar tourism economy with a budget in the millions of dollars spawning new development including Mount Airy Casino Resort and Great Wolf Lodge under his tenure.

“Finding my role in the Pocono Mountains was a blessing because it keeps me close to home and able to focus on my family,” said Schmeelk. “I have over 20 years of experience in accounting and finance. I also help other small non-profits and businesses with their bookkeeping. It has been a great way to support the community.”

Winner and Schmeelk join the board of directors at Pocono Mountains United Way as the newest members of a 14-person board.

“I’ve been very blessed in my life and am fortunate that I have time to serve the community. I’m very excited to see what this next chapter of my life will bring as a Board Member and ambassador for Pocono Mountains United Way! I’m just here to help,” said Winner.

If you are an artist or artisan, join the Carbon County Art League (CCAL) meeting on Wednesday, December 14th at 6:00 pm held at the Palmerton Area Library, 402 Delaware Ave, in Palmerton, PA 18071.

We’ll be discussing the League’s new mission and project plans for the coming year 2023.

Interested in CCAL membership? apply online.

https://carboncountyart.wixsite. com/carbon-county-art/membership.

“Mr. U dedicated his life to bettering the Poconos. He saw many ups and downs in the industry and worked tirelessly to promote the Pocono Mountains and the bureau’s many members,” said Mary Ravert who worked with Uguccioni at the PMVB for four decades. “He was a major force in many lives including visitors, hospitality employees and his own family. Bob will be missed.”

Uguccioni established an annual scholarship at East Stroudsburg University for an undergraduate student majoring in the Hotel, Restaurant & Tourism Management program. He sat down with

Robert Uguccioni

Lyman Winner

Jamie Schmeelk

Historic Caboose Returns to Lehighton

The trailhead off Sgt. Stanley Hoffman Boulevard in Lehighton used to be a train station. So, borough and county officials thought it would be fitting to buy a caboose and place it in an area known for its rich railroad transportation history.

pocono bits IN MEMORIAM

“The railroad was here, and it was running through here, and they needed people to service it, work with it. There were stores that opened up with freight and everything, so the railroad was like the backbone of the economy,” said Al Sellers, a volunteer with Lehighton Downtown Partnership.

The Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation and the Lehighton Downtown Partnership were searching for ways to revitalize the borough, looking into the town’s history.

Carbon County Votes in Favor of Helping Nature

Protecting the environment was on the ballot in Carbon County this past November.

More than 82 percent of residents voted in favor of allowing county commissioners to borrow up to $10 million over the next 20 years to protect water quality, farmlands, and wildlife habitats.

County officials say it would cost taxpayers very little in the end.

“The natural environment is synonymous with Carbon County, and again we’re going to be able to better protect it well into the future well beyond our own lifetime,” said Chris Lukasevich, Carbon County Commissioner.

The next step for county commissioners is to set up an advisory committee that will help officials choose the land and waterways they want to preserve.

Nature and Commerce Committee Releases Conservation Videos

This caboose lived in the Jim Thorpe rail yard for several years before the chamber bought it from Reading and Northern Railroad.

Kathy Henderson, the director of economic development, says the caboose will eventually become a welcome center that will educate people.

“We’ll have historical markers, plaques on the outside describing how it actually ran through on the tracks back in the day, back when it was operational. And so it will be an attraction, a welcome center for people and also residents to learn about the history,” said Henderson.

Not only is the caboose here to teach people about the railroad’s history in this area but to attract people to downtown Lehighton.

“Hopefully, that will help develop the town, and people will grow to come here, you know, for vacation or a day or two,” Sellers said.

Officials say the next step is to restore the caboose. (www.wnep.com)

The Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC) Nature and Commerce Committee in partnership with the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau (PMVB) is proud to release videos focused on conservation in our area. The vision of the Nature and Commerce Committee is to promote conservation-oriented programs, plans and policies that help grow the local economy. These new video messages created in partnership with the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau will help to educate the local community on the importance of conserving our wildlands and water in addition to re-purposing available properties and blighted buildings for economic growth.

Committee goals include advocating for conservation-oriented programs, plans and policies that complement the local economy, and working with partners to identify conservation and economic developmentoriented projects, The Committee will leverage existing resources and expertise, as well as new funding, to see the projects implemented and help establish Carbon County, its Planning Commission and the CCEDC as a leader in nature and commerce.

“We encourage our residents and

Snowmen of Stroudsburg Return

The popular Snowmen of Stroudsburg return for a fifth year from November 25, 2022 – February 25, 2023. Hand-painted and decorated by local artists in unique themes and designs, the 37 life-size snowmen sculptures are spread throughout the Stroudsburg area and relocate several times throughout the season (weather dependent).

The Snowmen of Stroudsburg concept was developed by Go Collaborative, a nonprofit dedicated to brainstorming how artists, businesses, and houses of worship can partner for the community’s benefit.

In addition to 27 beloved snowmen from past years, ten new sculptures are making their debut. Earlier this year, twelve original snowmen sold at public auction with proceeds benefitting the artists. Many of those snowmen, purchased by private residents and local businesses, will also be on display this season.

“This project brings residents and visitors together while showcasing everything Stroudsburg has to offer during a beautiful time of year,” said Go Collaborative President Jim Evanisko. “The Snowmen of Stroudsburg have rejuvenated the borough and shine a light on our talented artist community.”

After November 25, the public can visit GoCollaborativeStbg.com to vote for their favorite snowman. Artists with the most votes will be awarded cash prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. One vote per person.

Ten businesses in downtown Stroudsburg will be stocked with maps showing the locations of snowmen. Take selfies with all ten new snowmen and five returning snowmen (15 total selfies), then return to the business to receive a snowman tote bag with any purchase. Many merchants are offering specials or giveaways in conjunction with the Snowmen of Stroudsburg.

Once the Snowmen of Stroudsburg return the morning of Black Friday, the holiday fun continues that evening with the Downtown Stroudsburg Tree Lighting and related festivities in Courthouse Square, followed by Small Business Saturday, complete with live Christmas carolers.

Dear and Special Friend to The Jim Thorpe Current

the former Bethlehem Steel Railroad Operations until retiring in 1995.

He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Albrightsville.

He was a life member of Penn Forest Fire Company #1, Franklin Fire Company, and Tannery Social Club, White Heaven. Rollie loved wood working and his John Deere Tractors.

Surviving along with his wife are a son, Troy L. Meckes of Jim Thorpe; a sister, Anna Moser of Jim Thorpe; a granddaughter, Maria Meckes; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his daughterin-law, Linda (Poff) Meckes.

Rolland

G. Meckes, 89, of Penn Forest Twp., entered into eternal rest Nov. 21, 2022 in St. Luke’s Hospital, Bethlehem Campus.

“Rollie” was the husband of June (Solt) Meckes. They celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary on June 25th of this year.

Born in Penn Forest Twp., he was a son of the late John and Susie (Kibler) Meckes.

He was employed as a laborer for

community leaders to share the video links with others as we work together to educate, inspire and collaborate to conserve the natural gems in our County while growing our local economy” says Kathy Henderson, Director of Economic Development.

Both videos can be viewed and shared at: https://www.carboncountychamber.org/.

If you have a program or project that aligns with our goals, please let us know by contacting us through the chamber office.

Celebrate a Moravian Christmas Tradition in Nazareth

The Moravian Historical Society is pleased to announce the opening of Morning Star, the annual putz display, on Saturday, November 26, 2022 from 1pm–4pm.

Visitors are invited to view the annual putz display in the historic 1740 Gray Cottage, the oldest Moravian structure in North America. An elaborate miniature display that tells the Christmas story, the Moravian putz tradition reaches back into the eighteenth century. This exhibition features objects from the 1850s Morris putz and the 20th century Sullivan putz, accompanied by lights and narration of the Nativity story.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to enjoy a festive display of Moravian stars from the collection of the Moravian Historical Society.

The exhibition will be open daily from 1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. November 26, 2022–January 8, 2023. The Moravian Historical

He was also preceded in death by sisters, Clara Dotter and Mary Sibbac; brothers, John, Kenneth, Clayton, Lyman, and Albert Meckes and a nephew, Edward Smith.

Services: A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. in the Melber Funeral Home, 524 Center St. Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 with Rev. William Thompson officiating.

Family will receive friends 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers donations will be accepted in his name to the Penn Forest Fire Company #1, 1387 State Rte. 903, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229.

Society will be closed on December 24, 25, 26 and 31, 2022 and January 1, 2023.

Founded in 1857, the Moravian Historical Society (MHS) preserves, interprets, and celebrates the rich culture of the Moravians. Located in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, MHS maintains the 1740–1743 Whitefield House and the 1740 Gray Cottage, the oldest surviving Moravian structure in North America. Recognized widely for its significant collection, the museum offers permanent and changing exhibitions and a store that features gifts, books, and handmade artisan items.

Jim Thorpe’s 30th Annual Winterfest

It’s time to plan for Jim Thorpe Winterfest February 17th-19th 2023!

The theme this year is Fire & Ice.

Thank you in advance for coming on board to make this time around unforgettable.

With that being said, we’re teaming up again with Sculpted Ice Works. To ensure a seamless transaction this year so if you are interested in procuring sculpted ice, 1) we’d love your logo/ artwork in tandem with our theme submitted To Ashley Graver ashley. graverx@gmail.com by December 14th.

Pricing:

One Block 3D sculptures: $350

One Block Color Sculptures: $375 (3 colors)

Live Carving 2 hr/ 2 bl: $900

Have you Been Naughty or Nice? Everything

about The Carbon County Black Forest Krampusnacht Festival

The Carbon Chamber & Economic

Development Corp. and St. Luke’s Carbon Campus is proud to present the second annual Carbon County Black Forest Krampusnacht Festival.

This year the festival is hosted at Pocono Whitewater located at 1519 State Route 903 in Jim Thorpe.

The festival is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 3rd 1pm – 6pm. There is a rain date on Sunday, December 4th.

Please follow our Facebook page for up-to-date information facebook.com/ blackforestkrampusnacht.

You can also visit tinyurl.com/ blackforestkrampus.

Festival Organizers are thrilled to have St. Luke’s Carbon support this unique festival experience.

“St. Luke’s is happy to support the Chamber’s Black Forest Krampusnacht Festival.  As a community event in Carbon, we are proud to partner as the Presenting Sponsor this year” said John Nespoli, President of the St. Luke’s Carbon campus. This festival is a Carbon County spin on the Krampusnacht traditions in Germany and Austria. Krampus is an Alpine monster that punishes naughty children. He is the counterpart of Saint Nicholas. This event may sound sinister; however, it is great fun for the whole family. We do recommend the age of five years or older at this event. If you and your children are fans of Halloween, you will love this festival.

You can expect dozens of Krampus roaming the festival and we encourage festival goers to dress up and join the fun.

We have Saint Nicholas blessing the festival and leading the Krampuslauft parade through the festival grounds.

Entertainment within the festival is sponsored by Pencor Service Inc. along with Blue Ridge Communications.

The beloved Pennsylvania Villagers Polka

Band will be performing at 1pm, a live radio broadcast by AM 1410 WLSH between the hours of 3pm – 5pm, and a closing fire performance by Dani Long Legs of the Eclectic Circus.

Bring a toy to support Toys for Tots and enjoy a smore station fireside hosted by The Jim Thorpe Girls’ Basketball team! Our beer and wine garden are sponsored by Bright Path Brewing, and Big Creek Vineyard of Jim Thorpe.

We also have a kids tent, with free crafts sponsored by Stotz and Fatzinger Office Supply, and Jim Thorpe House of Jerky.

Shop a variety of unique vendors including an official Carbon County Black Forest Krampusnacht merch store, sponsored by TCB Promotions, and Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. Food vendors will be onsite as well as amazing desserts for sale. This is an outdoor festival, please dress warmly.

This year Café Arielle at the Stabin Museum in Jim Thorpe is hosting a Krampus Ball to kick off the festivities on Friday, December 2nd 7pm – 10pm. This event features an eight-piece oompah band, food, and drinks. Dress to impress and contact venue directly for tickets 570-325-5588

The festival has easily accessible onsite parking for $15. There will also be a shuttle service available from downtown

Jim Thorpe. This shuttle is recommended to lodging guests and local carbon residents. Shuttle tickets can be purchased at the Pocono Bike shop located at 7 Hazard Square. The shuttle will be departing the bike shop every hour and returning half hour through festival hours. Tickets can solely be purchased at the bike shop and not at the festival. Shuttle tickets are $5 roundtrip. There are no additional fees to enter the festival.

This unique event would not be made possible without our partners at Pocono Whitewater, and the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce.

origins of the sport and be a league that has at its foundation, diversity.”

Carmen Kesner, PBLA C.E.O., said, “Jim Thorpe is, quite literally, the gold standard for athletic achievement. At the end of the season, it will take a full team of athletes aspiring to Jim Thorpe’s level of greatness to win our championship trophy bearing his name.”

Mayor Michael Sofranko, of Jim Thorpe, PA said, “The residents of Jim Thorpe have always been very passionate about honoring Jim Thorpe for his many accomplishments. Having a professional sports team based out of our town gives current and future generations even more to cheer about.”

Additionally, Jim Thorpe’s grandson, John Thorpe added, “Is there a better way to honor the world’s greatest athlete than with America’s oldest sport? I think not.”

The team will play a four game “Origins Series” at venues that will celebrate the league’s commitment to the sport’s dual platform of tradition and diversity. The remaining home games will further the

league’s commitment to this platform, with a full announcement forthcoming regarding locations and tickets.

The PBLA held its first-ever player draft this past October. The season will face-off on December 29, 2022. The final game of the inaugural season will be played on April 15, 2023.

To learn more about the PBLA visit http://PBLA.com/about About The PBLA

The PBLA was established to help further grow the sport of lacrosse and create the most exciting brand of professional box lacrosse in North America. The PBLA’s mission is to bring the world of professional, high-energy, indoor lacrosse to fans across the United States. The PBLA believes there’s a tremendous opportunity to improve the game of professional box lacrosse by bringing back American players to compete in non-stop, riveting contests, that will bring every fan to their feet and show everyone why Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in the country.

you need to know

taste

Christmas Cocktails: A Trip Around the World

By Aillinn Brennan Special to The Current

When you think about that picture-perfect Christmassy place….there’s lots of snow elegantly resting on big beautiful evergreens and reindeer pulling sleighs. Hello, North Pole. Santa’s official North Pole hometown, Rovaniemi, is just four miles south of the Artic Circle in Lapland, Finland. There is plenty of snow and chilly temps perfect for sipping Scandinavia’s holiday drink, Glögg.

This spicy and citrusy hot wine cocktail varies slightly from country to country and has been a Scandinavian tradition dating back to the 1500’s when it was the drink of messengers who delivered mail in these chilly, snowy parts on horseback or even on skis. The festive cocktail features clove, cardamon, ginger, cinnamon and citrus peels simmered in water then strained. The fragrant liquid is added to wine or spirits (or both). At the time of serving raisins and almonds are often added. Glug that Glögg!

In Medieval Brittan, Wassail, is similar to Glögg but made with mulled apple cider instead of wine. The origin of its name in the Old English means “be hale”. This hale and hearty drink originates from a Medieval Christmas ritual called Wassailing where the village gathers around the oldest apple tree in the orchard to drink the Wassil and sing songs which will invoke the “good spirits” to ensure a fantastic apple harvest the following autumn. “Old apple tree, old apple tree: We’ve come to wassail thee…..hats full, caps full, three-bushel bags full; Barn floors full and a little heap under the stairs!”

Eggnog is the American contribution to holiday deliciousness. Rich and creamy, it is an egg and milk punch traditionally made from milk, cream, sugar, whipped egg whites, egg yolks, holiday spices and a spirit. Its origin can be traced to the Colonists who had plentiful milk and eggs on hand to mix it up. The spirit used would depend on the politics du jour. Once brandy was heavily taxed, rum jumped into the recipe. Bourbon, Americas whiskey, became a suitable substitute when during the American Revolution, rum became less in supply. And of course, good ol’ Moonshine would do when bourbon was too expensive

In the Italian Alps, a hot version of Eggnog called Bombardino, literally the bomb, is happily sipped at ski resorts this time of year. It’s made with eggnog and brandy served warm and topped with whipped cream and a dash of cinnamon. It was created on the

fly by the proprietor of a ski resort to offer to skiers escaping blizzard conditions for the comfort of the bar. He whipped together milk, whiskey and zabaglione, an egg-based custard that he had on hand. He brought the mixture to not quite a boil and served it to the cold and tired skiers. One declared, “Damn! It’s a bomb!” Italy you’re the bomb!

So, whatever your taste? Spiced wine, spiritual cider or a decadent egg and milk punch let the toast be the same! Buon Natale, Bliþe Geol, Hyvää Joulua, Merry Christmas!

Aillinn Brennan is proprietor of The Marion Hose Bar located at 16 W. Broadway in Jim Thorpe. For more visit www.marionhosebar.com

taste

Celery Root (Celeriac)

By Nicolas and Stephen Servis The Current Contributing Writers

Iam almost positive that we have all seen celery root at the store and thought to ourselves, “my lord, what is that thing?”

At first glance, celery root looks like it was made on Dr. Frankenstein’s table, but we promise you it is not that scary or intimidating.

celeriac, the root veg should feel slightly heavy for its size, and it should lack any soft or mushy spots. If a store sells celeriac with green tops that resemble celery stalks, make sure they are standing strong with a vibrant green color. A yellowish color and flimsy stalk usually indicate that the veggie is on its way out.

The preparation of celery root is fairly simple. All that is required is cutting away the off-colored brown, bumpy flesh on the outside with a sharp knife. That will reveal the creamy white inside. Celeriac can be eaten raw in salads, shaved into coleslaw, or pressed into a potato gratin. But its most common use is in soup.

Celery root soup is delicious. It’s quick and easy to make for families on the go. All that is required is a large sauce pot and a blender.

and celery root and begin to sweat them out for about 7-10 minutes. The key here is to not get any caramelized color on the shallots or celery root, as that will change the end color of the soup. We are looking for a nice white finished product.

Once the veg mix is sweated out, add enough water to cover it completely and softly boil it until the root is completely fork-tender.

Using a slotted spoon, scoop out the mixture and place it in the blender. Add the hot liquid from the pot into the mixture while it is blending to make the soup your preferred consistency.

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

Aillinn Brennan • Natalya Bucuy John Drury • Kara Edmonds Barbara Mumma Nicolas and Stephen Servis Yvonne Wright

For Advertising

Jay Pelc • 917.957.1713

JP4541@aol.com

Distribution JD@JimThorpeCurrent.com

Published by

Stony Creek Media, LLC. PO Box #222 Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania 18229 570 . 399 . 1400

Celeriac, better known as celery root, is a brown, ridged, softball-looking vegetable with pure white flesh. Fall, winter, and early spring mark the peak seasons for the vegetable. The cooler weather turns the starches into sugars after the ground frosts, giving the veggie a sweeter celery flavor with a consistency of a potato.

When it comes to selecting the perfect

Celery Root Soup

Ingredients: 2 large celeriac, 2 shallots, ¼ lbs butter, water, salt, 1 lemon.

Start by peeling and cutting the celery root into small rough cuts. Next, slice the shallots and get the large sauce pot on the stove.

Over medium heat, melt the butter. When it begins to foam, add the shallots

Strain the finished product through a fine mesh sieve and season with salt and lemon juice.

Once cooled down, stored in the fridge for about a week or freeze for up to six months.

To elevate this soup to the next level, Servis Events garnishes it with some freshly picked celery leaf, fingerling potato chips, rendered bacon, and a dash of truffle oil.

Talk about a real feel-good meal!

The Jim Thorpe Current is published monthly and distributed to over 210 locations throughout the Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania Area. Entire contents of this publication is copyright 2022 Stony Creek Media, LLC. all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher.

offer bulk buy groceries. She built a page on Hofford’s Mill website with an offering of bulk-buy items in large quantities at a fair price with no-contact pickup. “Some people drove from 45 minutes away just because they knew it was gonna be a positive experience, and they felt inclined to support small business,” McEvilly says. “That move really kept our business alive and was a great marketing tool for us.”

Continuing operations through the lockdown and, at the same time, offering an alternative for the local community helped the owners and staff of Hofford Mill not only stay afloat but to create strong bonds with its customers.

After a few months, the restaurant business slowly reemerged, first with takeout-only options, then with minimal indoor seating. “For the longest time, it was just my mom in the kitchen and me, and really just a skeleton crew,” McEvilly recalls. “My mom even came up with the idea to use plants to separate tables so that people could still feel comfortable in our space. So that’s also where all the plants came from.”

Today, The Hofford Mill is home to The Gorge Eatery, Uncommon Grounds coffee shop, Bronson E-Bikes, and Pocono Fly Fishing. The center hopes to attract more vendors and host larger events in 2023. The

family employs a staff of about 20 people at the George Eatery restaurant. The close relationships with the community and the staff are what keep the business going strong, McEvilly says.

“The way we care is evident in our day-to-day operations. There is no yelling or screaming. We highly encourage transparency, and I can genuinely say it’s a very positive place to be in,” McEviily says. “With everything that’s gone on in the past few years, it can be difficult to find peace. And despite how crazy customer service and hospitality can be, I feel peace when I am in that building and with my colleagues.”

And peace is what defines the space McEvilly and her team have created. “What makes The Gorge and The Hofford Mill unique is probably the plants and earthiness of the space,” she says. “It’s a space that was used for many years by a variety of people. Now it’s a place of enjoyment. And really, having earthy colors and all of the greenery, people tend to use the word Zen when talking about the space.”

Life throws curveballs sometimes. Resilience, persistence, and the ability to adapt to ever-changing circumstances are the key to success and lasting peace. And for Hofford Mills that has been exactly the case. For more information, visit thehoffordmill.com.

out are the 8th annual display of more than 500 nativity scenes from around the world at St. John Lutheran Church, holiday shows and concerts at the Mauch Chunk Opera House, and shopping at the unique shops and galleries for that perfect gift.

Location: Downtown Jim Thorpe Dates: The festival occurs every Sat and Sun, Dec 3 - 18. Price: Free.

RELIVE RURAL HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AT THE QUIET VALLEY OLD TIME CHRISTMAS: DEC. 3 -10

From the 1760s to 1913, a Pennsylvanian German family lived on a farm in the Pocono Mountains. Today, visitors can partake in the customs and the ways of rural life of the past at the Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm. And during Old Time Christmas, the visits are even more special. More than any other holiday, Christmas celebrations center on the traditions of family and heritage. At the farm, the Christmas customs of the past come to life. From the lantern light and luminaries to hot chocolate and cookies, Old Time Christmas caries on Christmas traditions through generations.

Location: Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, 347 Quiet Valley Road, Stroudsburg. Dates: 2:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Price: $18/adults; $10/ages 3-12.

IMMERSE IN THE DREAMLAND OF CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: THROUGH DEC 23

The gleam of holiday lights brings adds the joy and good cheer of the season. These Christmas lights displays make for a perfect December evening outing.

West End Fairgrounds Memories are made when our senses are activated. This light festival at the fairgrounds is a perfect setting for that. The animated light display, the smell and taste of hot chocolate, the feel of unique items for sale from artisan vendors, and the sound of horse and buggy rides are sure to wake up all senses and make family memories for life.

Location: 570 Fairgrounds Road, Effort. Dates: Thurs - Sun, 5 pm. to 9 pm.

Price: $6/person

Lights at the Lake Too cold outside? Stay warm and cozy in the car, and drive through a sparkling lights display hosted by Raising the House on the shores of Mauch Chunk Lake. There is

something in those light reflections in the water that makes our hearts feel just a little bit warmer.

Location: Mauch Chunk Lake Park, 625 Lentz Trail, Jim Thorpe.

Dates: Fri and Sat: 6 pm. to 10 pm, Sundays: 5 pm to 9 pm.

Price: Tickets on the website: lightsatthelake.com, $25/car.

EXPLORE A DIFFERENT TRADITION AT CARBON COUNTY BLACK FOREST KRAMPUSNACHT:

DEC 3

We’ve all heard of Saint Nicholas, but what about his counterpart, Krampus? He is a German folk character who is in charge of punishing the naughty children while Saint Nicholas rewards the nice ones. At the second annual Krampusnacht festival, visitors - both naughty and nice - can enjoy music, gift vendors, food, face painting, fire-side smores, a beer garden, a costume contest, and more.

Location: Pocono Whitewater Rafting Dates: Dec. 3, 1 pm. to 6 pm.

Price: Free

After hours on the day before, attend Krampus Ball - the Alternative Christmas Gala. Mingle with kindred Krampus in a historic factory, meander outdoors to the moonlit Avant Garden, or enjoy the grooves in the Chill Lounge. The night will feature passed Hors D’oeuvres, food and dessert stations, an eight-piece Oompah band - the Schutzengiggles, costume contests with prizes, and themed cocktails.

Location: Stabin Museum, 268 W Broadway, Jim Thorpe.

Date: Dec 2, 7 pm. - 10 pm.

Price: $75; tickets online: https://www.vicsjazzloft.com

FIND THE PERFECT GIFT AT CHRISTKINDLMARKT: THROUGH DEC. 18

Twice recognized as one of the best holiday markets in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure, this heart-warming holiday tradition continues to bring visitors to Bethlehem every year. Stroll the rows of artisan vendors offering handmade works, including handmade ornaments, nutcrackers, and collectibles from Germany.

Location: PNC Plaza at SteelStacks, 711 E 1st St, Bethlehem.

Dates: Thurs - Sun, through Dec 18.

Price: $10 - $12.

Kate McEvilly

St. Luke’s President Honored by Boy Scouts Minsi Trails Council for Distinguished Service

John Nespoli, President of the St. Luke’s University Health Network’s Lehighton and Carbon campuses, was chosen by the Boy Scouts of America Minsi Trails Council to receive its 2022 Carbon County Friends of Scouting Distinguished Citizen award. Nespoli received the award during a dinner held at the Blue Mountain Resort on October 27.

Nespoli was chosen for his contributions to the Carbon County community over the last four years. During that time, Nespoli oversaw the largest investment in healthcare that Carbon County has ever seen. The investment includes building the new St. Luke’s Carbon Campus in Franklin Township, refurbishing and repurposing St. Luke’s Lehighton Campus, and decommissioning the Palmerton Hospital, and constructing a full continuum

of outpatient medical care on Delaware Avenue in Palmerton.

Nespoli said he was proud to be selected for the honor and found it appropriate as he developed many of the skills that have helped him in his leadership positions as a Boy Scout in his youth.

Scouting, Nespoli said, “teaches children to form positive bonds with their community, develop academically and become more self-confident and selfsufficient.” At the same time, Nespoli said, Scouts learn about ethics, leadership and good citizenship. “These are all skills that helped me in my role as a community leader and that the nation needs more of now more than ever.”

Nespoli was named President of the Lehighton and Carbon Campuses in December 2018.

Joe Guardiani, Director of Development for St. Luke’s, served as MC for the awards dinner.

Decorate Safely This Holiday Season

Winter holidays are a time for decorating – safe decorating

At Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), we want you to avoid an emergency room visit by putting safety first when dressing up the inside or outside of your home. Don’t make your holidays memorable for the wrong reasons.

A wise shop teacher once said, “safety is first, last and always.” Those are words to decorate by, for sure.

The ‘rung’ stuff

Whether you’re channeling your inner Clark Griswold or just putting up a few simple decorations, avoid falls and practice good ladder safety. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there is an average of about 160 decorating-related injuries each day during the holiday season, with almost half involving falls. In the 2019 holiday season, about 14,800 people were treated in emergency rooms because of holiday decorating-related injuries.

The American Ladder Institute says ladder safety means:

• Never climb a ladder in inclement weather.

• Make sure the ladder is long enough to safely reach your roof or other tall places without stepping on the top two rungs.

• Never overreach. It’s a leading cause of ladder injuries. Move the ladder closer so you can safely work.

• Inspect your ladder for defects.

• Save the alcohol for after you’re done decorating, so your balance and judgment aren’t impaired.

• Place your ladder on firm, level ground and use leg levelers if needed.

• Always maintain three points of contact with your hands and feet.

Powerful advice

What you use to decorate your home also should be safe, including electrical items such as light strings and extension cords.

Trees

Many artificial trees are fire resistant. If you buy one, look for a statement specifying this protection.

A fresh tree will stay green longer and be less of a fire hazard than a dry tree. To check for freshness, remember:

• A fresh tree is green.

• Fresh needles are hard to pull from branches.

• When bent between your fingers, fresh needles do not break.

• The trunk butt of a fresh tree is sticky with resin.

• When the trunk of a tree is bounced on the ground, a shower of falling needles shows that tree is too dry.

Place tree away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources. Heated

rooms dry trees out rapidly, creating fire hazards.

Cut off about two inches of the trunk to expose fresh wood for better water absorption. Trim away branches as necessary to set tree trunk in the base of a sturdy, water-holding stand with wide spread feet. Keep the stand filled with water while the tree is indoors.

Place the tree out of the way of traffic and do not block doorways. Use thin guywires to secure a large tree to walls or ceiling. These wires are almost invisible.

“Snow”

Artificial snow sprays can irritate lungs if inhaled.

To avoid injury, read container labels; follow directions carefully.

Lights

Indoors or outside, use only lights that have been tested for safety. Identify these by the label from an independent testing laboratory.

Check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Discard damaged sets or repair them before using.

Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house, walls or other firm support to protect from wind damage.

Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord.

Turn off all lights on trees and other decorations when you go to bed or leave the house. Lights could short and start a fire.

Never use electric lights on a metallic tree.

The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and any person touching a branch could be electrocuted! To avoid this danger, use colored spotlights above or beside a tree, never fastened onto it!

Keep “bubbling” lights away from children. These lights with their bright colors and bubbling movement can tempt curious children to break candle-shaped glass, which can cut, and attempt to drink liquid, which contains a hazardous chemical.

John Nespoli

When it comes to your child, you only want the best for them. From simple to complex cardiac issues, turn to the team you TRUST. St. Luke’s team of pediatric cardiologists diagnose, treat and manage common conditions such as chest pain, syncope and murmurs to complex conditions including fetal heart disease, heart failure and congenital, genetic, metabolic, oncologic, neuromuscular and inflammatory heart muscle disorders. The St. Luke’s team is skilled in the latest techniques and technology to care for infants, children and adolescents.

Our pediatric cardiologists work closely with your child’s pediatrician, sports medicine providers, imaging technologists and other pediatric or prenatal specialists. Our collaborative approach enables us to create comprehensive and customized management plans based on your child’s specific needs, condition and age, from infants to teens... all right here at St. Luke’s.

The heart care you trust for kids. Now more than ever.

music

FRIDAY - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2-3

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

TWELVE TWENTY FOUR - MUSIC OF THE TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA

A holiday show featuring the music of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Twelve Twenty Four brings their high energy, full-scale holiday rock orchestra concert back to the Northeast this year. Featuring the music of the Trans Siberian Orchestra (TSO), along with selections from their debut album, Miracle on Rock Street, and this year’s newest release, Light in the Dark, for a one-of-akind holiday experience! Established in 2002, 12/24 performs its Christmas music with a theatrical, rock edge and combines it with a narrated storyline to create a family friendly holiday show suitable for all ages.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $39

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3

PENN’S PEAK

RYAN PELTON - AN ELVIS CHRISTMAS SHOW

Ryan Pelton is an international, award winning, Elvis tribute artist, actor, and singer/ songwriter. Ryan kicked off his career in 1998 by competing in an Elvis impersonator contest on a dare from his mother. Against all odds and after having only one week to prepare (and not knowing any of Elvis’s

songs), Ryan won the contest. Since then Ryan has sung along Celine Dion and starred in a show at Legends in Concert, Myrtle Beach. Ryan has appeared as Elvis in the movie Hounddog alongside Dakota Fanning and more recently starred in the movie The Identical with Ray Liotta, Ashley Judd and Seth Green. Showtime 1:00PM www.pennspeak.com (866) 605-PEAK

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4

PENN’S PEAK

JAZZ LOFT AT THE STABIN MUSEUM

Friday, December 2

Krampus Ball: The Alternative Christmas Gala A party unlike any other, featuring: • Passed Hors D’oeuvres • Delicious Food & Dessert Stations, • 8-piece Oompah band, The Schutzengiggles, • Multiple areas to mix & mingle, inside and out • Costume Contests with Prizes • Themed cocktails Tickets $75

Friday, December 23

Drummer Boy: A Vic’s Jazz Loft Holiday Jazz Celebration

Rudy Petschauer, well known jazz and blues drummer and longtime member of jazz organ great Jack McDuff’s group will be performing with Veteran woodwind master Paul Kendall, sax and rising star, Dan Kostelnik, organ.

7:00 -10 pm, Doors 6:00

Tickets $15

Saturday, December 31

New Year’s Eve 5-Course Celebration

Dinner - Two Seatings 6:00 & 9:00 Please join us for our New Year’s Eve Five Course Celebration Dinner. We will have two seatings. Our second seating will feature a live jazz performance to ring in the New Year.

Seating 1: 6:00 pm $85 +tax/gratuity

Seating 2: 9:00 pm featuring live jazz performance/dancing $100 +tax/gratuity

SWITCHFOOT:

THIS IS OUR CHRISTMAS TOUR

Dreaming of a California Christmas? Looking to warm up your holidays with a bit of California sunshine? Switchfoot is here for you with some California surf-rock holiday cheer. Inspired by a West Coast sound ranging from The Beach Boys to Black Flag, Switchfoot’s “this is our Christmas album” brings you the California Christmas album you never knew you needed. An album full of Nostalgia? Sunshine? Maybe even some honest anticonsumerist lyrics about Christmas Muzak at the mall? Yes. Yes and yes. From fresh new takes on traditional classics, to instant classics, Switchfoot’s “this is our Christmas album” has something to brighten anyone’s holiday season. Tickets $35 - $75

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

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9 PENN’S PEAK

fusion of the American sounds of classic 50’s rock & roll and big band swing with the energy and spirit of contemporary culture. Rock This Town Orchestra is much more than a simple tribute band, it takes inspiration from Brian Setzer’s approach to the music and some of the most influential creators of this uniquely American art form.

The band’s guitar-horns infused music and legendary high energy show introduces this genre to the younger generations as well as bringing back precious memories to the more mature audiences while remaining cognizant and respectful of the music’s rich legacy.

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE CRAIG THATCHER AND FRIENDS ROCKIN’ CHRISTMAS

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER

PENN’S PEAK

10

the date to taste all the fruit and sample our holiday chestnuts. This is a 21+ show.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $28

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17

PENN’S PEAK

DEADGRASS -A STRING BAND ADVENTURE THROUGH JERRY GARCIA’S WORLD

Matt Turk and C Lanzbom joined forces to form Deadgrass, a string band adventure through Jerry Garcia’s musical world. Bassist Dave Richards, banjoist Boo Reiners and fiddler Kensuke Shoji complete this fine group of seasoned pros exploring the life works of Jerry Garcia on the instruments that first inspired him. Deadgrass celebrates

JESSIE’S GIRL

Every Saturday night for the last 5 years, crowds of ecstatic fans and newcomers alike have thrown on their best spandex, leg warmers and metal gear, lined up, and come to downtown NYC for an all-out celebration at the Back to the Eighties Show. essie’s Girl has mastered stunning renditions of the world’s most vibrant songs, all while dressed up as the unforgettable characters of that decade!

Bon Jovi, Cindi Lauper, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, and many more come to life right before the dazzled eyes of the crowd. It is theatre, meets live music, smothered in 80’s glitz.

Tickets $25 - $30

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

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

ROCK THIS TOWN XMAS SPECTACULAR (BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA)

Rock This Town Orchestra is the Ultimate and Only Brian Setzer Orchestra Tribute Band in the USA. It is at the forefront of the swing revival in popular music, blending a vibrant

DOUBLE VISION THE FOREIGNER EXPERIENCE

Boasting some of New York City’s top professional rock musicians, Double Vision delivers the highest level of integrity and technical prowess, resulting in a legitimate tribute and authentic performance. Second to none at recreating the masterful songs Foreigner fans worldwide have come to love, Double Vision brings audiences an unforgettable experience with ear to ear smiles, singing, dancing and clapping along to some of the greatest hit songs from the 70’s & 80’s, including “Juke Box Hero,” “Hot Blooded,” “Cold As Ice,” “I Want To Know What Love Is,” “Urgent,” “Double Vision,” “Head Games,” “Feels Like the First Time,” and more! Tickets $22 - $27

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

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16 PENN’S PEAK

DIAMOND RIO - HOLIDAY & HITS

EVENT SCHEDULE

DECEMBER/JANUARY ART SHOW

Paintings by Kate Brandes.

Wild Elder Wine & Cider is proud to host original paintings by Kate Brandes for the months of December and January. The show features ethereal watercolor paintings all created within the past year by the artist. Work is available for viewing and purchase during Wild Elder’s business hours (open 7 days, 11-5pm) through December, excluding Christmas; January hours TBD. All proceeds from the sales will be donated to Jim Thorpe Rotary in support of their work helping local children in need. Please join us as we celebrate the artist and her work in person, FRIDAY 12/2, 5-8PM. Light hors devours will be served. Additional food and drink will be available for purchase.

Tickets $25 - $35

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

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

PEEK-A-BOO REVUE HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR

This Holiday season, come swing out with the Peek-A-Boo Revue for Silver Belles, a holiday spectacular that is chock full of cheeky with some tinsel covered freaky. Philly’s longest running burlesque cabaret promises to bring both naughty AND nice routines to the stage. Hop on the Peek-A-Boo sleigh this season with Santa, special guest Goldi Fox and a few feisty forest friends for a handful of stocking stuffers that would make even Krampus blush. So save

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9 6:30-9:30PM

Wild Elder Open Mic. Come on out to Wild Elder Tasting Room & Eatery to either share songs you’ve written, or show us your take on something else! All creatives welcome - poets, comics, musicians, we’d love to see what you create. Hosted by Peaches & Wine.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 24

Wild Elder 2-Year Anniversary Celebration - Holiday specials and giveaways all day 11am-6pm; Christmas caroling from 3-5pm.

COMING JAN-MAY 2023

Wild Elder Book Club is back! The club will meet monthly on third Thursdays at the shop. The theme this year is local history. We are partnering with both Sellers Books and Dimmick Memorial Library to make sure you have local access to the books. Visit wildelder. com/s/stories or check out our Facebook events for more info.

www.wildelder.com 76 Broadway in Jim Thorpe (570) 732-9933

Formed in 1989 in Nashville, TN the band consists of Gene Johnson (mandolin, tenor vocals), Jimmy Olander (lead guitar, acoustic guitar, banjo), Brian Prout (drums), Marty Roe (lead vocal), Dan Truman (keyboards), and Dana Williams (bass guitar, baritone vocals).

music • entertainment

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE B-STREET BAND (SPRINGSTEEN SHOW)

From the heart of the Jersey shore, “Backstreets,” later the “BStreet Band,” was the first band in the world to do a unique tribute to a live performer. There are now an estimated 14,000 tribute bands following their lead and performing all over the world. Nearly 5,500 performances and 34 years later, the B-Street Band is still the hardest working tribute band on the circuit, with almost 200 shows per year throughout the country.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $24

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

FRIDAY, JANUARY 13 MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

and interprets the music of Jerry Garcia, drawing from Old & in the Way, JGB, Jerry’s Jug Band days and the Grateful Dead.

Tickets $22 - $27

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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17

MYSTERY CITY

Mystery City is a Classic Rock Tribute Band that brings the best in music and performance to every show they perform. Made up of local talent that has been successfully playing in the area since the late 1980’s, this project is like no other. Mystery City jams artists like Aerosmith, David Bowie, Queen, The Sweet, Blondie, Ozzy and Kiss just to name a few. The energy is undeniable and the crowd spends the night on the dance floor. Mystery City always makes it a night to remember.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 7:30 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $15

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE COMEDY TRIPLE HEADER

Don’t miss our Triple Headliner New Year’s Eve show featuring: Chris Johnston from the Impractical Joker’s Tours & Cruises, Local PA

Favorite Buddy Harris & the hilarious Brendan Donegan!

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $28

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

RUBIX KUBE is taking the universe by storm as the most original ‘80s tribute band of all time. Its one-of-a-kind “THE EIGHTIES STRIKE BACK Show” is performed in their NYC headquarters, across the planet, and to galaxies far, far away... The KUBE is more than just a cover band - it’s a totally awesome, true ‘80s Experience! Every super-charged show takes it to the max and guarantees to set the roof on fire and burn down the house. (Metaphorically speaking of course). RUBIX KUBE is led by a male and female dynamic duo of karma chameleons, able to transform in the-blink-of-an-eye into the voice and character of any ‘80s icon.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $32

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

NEW YEAR’S EVE DANCE PARTY WITH HUNKAJUNK

Be at the most happening place in Jim Thorpe on New Year’s Eve for a great time, affordable cocktails, light show and dancing, The Mauch Chunk Opera House… Where else?! Hunkajunk Serves up hit after Retro Hit, modern classics to keep you dancing right through to the new year.

Doors open 9:00 PM – Showtime 9:30 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $18

UNFORGETTABLE FIRE (U2 TRIBUTE)

Unforgettable Fire, or “UF”, was born on New Years Day in 1995 as one of the very first U2 tribute bands to ever perform in America. After twenty years of playing in some of the most prestigious venues on the East Coast, UF has formed a reputation among many to be one of the closest experiences to being at an actual live U2 show. In addition to performing a very impressive array of U2 material from pre-Boy to the most recent Songs of Innocence and beyond, the band does everything in their power (from wardrobe to lighting) to recreate the live U2 concert setting for their audiences.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $28

SATURDAY, JANUARY 14

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

CRAIG THATCHER BAND & FRIENDS

New arrangements of original tunes along with select cover songs done in CTB’s inimitable style featuring music from Steely Dan, Traffic, Hendrix, Allman Brothers, Clapton, Rufus and more, with some surprise tunes…you’ll just have to attend to witness in person! Band members include: Regina Sayles, Chico Huff, Cliff Starkey, Nyke Van Wyk, Billy Murnin, Brett Andrew, Billy Wear & Craig Thatcher.”

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $27

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20

PENN’S PEAK

THE DISCO BISCUITS

The Disco Biscuits are an entirely different band today than they were when they first broke out of Philadelphia in the mid-90s. That’s not to say that they’ve abandoned their foundation, switched gears or set sail for distant shores. The Disco Biscuits are still very much the pioneers of “trancefusion,” bridging the gap between electronic music and jam bands. They still remain rock pioneers whose soul belongs as much to marathon dance parties as it does to live improvisational journeys. They still employ emerging technologies to help them create music that is 100 percent human although, perhaps, not entirely of this earth. Tickets $35 - $40

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

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

POPA CHUBBY

Popa Chubby, born Ted Horowitz, has been hard rocking the blues in his fierce and soulful way for more than 30 years. Over the course of a career that dates back to 1994, he has

been a force to be reckoned with on the guitar, and his tempestuous, soulful playing has never been more powerful. An imposing figure with a shaven head, tattooed arms, a goatee and a performance style he describes as “the Stooges meets Buddy Guy, Motörhead meets Muddy Waters, and Jimi Hendrix meets Robert Johnson,” Popa Chubby is an endearing character who is one of the genre’s most popular figures. He was always immersed in rock ‘n’ roll as theater, and learned from George and others playing CBGB’s at the time, including the Ramones, the Cramps, Richard Hell, whose band, the Voidoids he joined and learned that rock ‘n’ roll should be dangerous.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $25

Broadway Grille + Underground

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1

LIVE MUSIC: MATT FILER

7:00 PM -10:00 PM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2

LIVE MUSIC: BRIAN KIBLER

7:00 PM-10:00 PM

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3

LIVE MUSIC: SHELLSHOCKED CHURCHILLS

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15

LIVE MUSIC: MATT FILER

7:00 PM -10:00 PM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16

LIVE MUSIC: NOT JOHN

7:00 PM-10:00 PM

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17

LIVE MUSIC: JUSTIN SKYLER

7:00 PM-10:00 PM

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18

LIVE MUSIC: DUSTIN DOUGLAS

3:00 PM-6:00 PM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23

UGLY XMAS SWEATER PARTY WITH MCGEEHAN DUO

7:00 PM-10:00 PM

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY WITH KEYSTONE GROOVE

7:00 PM-10:00 PM

THE LAUGH PACK: TWAS THE LAUGH BEFORE CHRISTMAS!

Get ready to laugh all night with this TRIPLE HEADLINER SHOW! This evening of comedy will be peppered with Magic and Music to make this a performance you won’t soon forget. Let comedian Mark Riccadonna (SNL) guide you through the evening with his friends Justin “the human jukebox” Gonzalez (Carnegie Hall) and renowned magician Denny Corby (Penn and Teller Fool Us).

Doors open 4:30 PM – Showtime 5:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-0249 Tickets $25

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5

OPEN MIC W/ MATT FILER

7:00 PM-10:00 PM

THURSDAY, JANUARY 19 OPEN MIC W/ MATT FILER 7:00 PM-10:00 PM

MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

RUBIX KUBE (80’S STRIKE BACK)

arts

When the Jagged Star was Born…

By Yvonne Wright The Current Contributing Writer

With the Autumn foliage behind us, the abundance of visual stimuli only intensifies at the beginning of each December month in preparation for Christmas Holiday splendor. Nature’s earthy colors dispersed by the winds give way to signs of lavishly decorated evergreens contrasting exquisitely against the falling snow.

Artificial or freshly cut, many are visible through the windows of residential neighborhoods as if inviting us in, with a promise of warm hospitality. Others, richly embellished with garlands, traditional glass ornaments and candy canes compete for our attention in public spaces. Urban and rural communities alike are set aglow during this time of the year, with strings of lights decorating their streets, piercing through wintery darkness with a friendly glow.

Although we are relatively unified in Christmas-decorating practices, some North American communities uphold their own traditional seasonal ornamentation - the creation of which is lovingly preserved and passed on from generation to generation. Notably, if one lives in Pennsylvania, especially in the Lehigh Valley area, one is most likely to be familiar with the beautifully radiant Moravian Stars (or Herrnhut Stars in German), often visible atop Christmas trees in various sizes, hanging off front porches, windows, or decorating church steeples and public squares until early January - providing a comforting warmth to the towns they adorn every year, with their uniquely elegant geometrical shapes that make a lasting impact on anyone who encounters them.

Introduced to North America in the early part of the 19th-century by Moravian (aka United Brethren) communities, whose German-speaking ancestors having roots originating from Bohemia and Moravia (present day Czech Republic) and Saxony (in eastern Germany), sought religious freedom in America in the early 1700s, settling in Pennsylvania. As followers of Jan Hus (a Czech theologian, philosopher and religious reformer), the Moravians are acknowledged to be the first Protestant movement in Europe, pre-dating the Lutheran reformation by 100 years. In America, “German Moravians purchased the land where the Monocacy Creek flows into the Lehigh River,” and on Christmas Eve 1741 they named their small but thriving community “a town of Bethlehem,” in time becoming a diverse community with Brethren from all over Europe, speaking 15 different languages.

In the mid-1800s, the Moravian Church of Pennsylvania, as well as its Continental ‘Mother Communities’, quickly integrated into their cultural identity a 26-point star with a candle inside which had been recently invented in Germany, as a symbol of God, and also a representation of the Biblical Star of Bethlehem, to be henceforth marking and illuminating the Advent, Christmas and Epiphany observances. Originally referenced in the Book of Matthew, the gospel writer recounts a bright star appearing in the eastern sky when Jesus was born, famously seen by a group of wise men; these biblical “Magi,” sometimes called kings, now adorn nativity scenes in Christian churches around the world.

The first concept for the Moravian Star has been historically attributed to the Moravian School for Boys (the Paedagogium) located in the small German town of Niesky, in Saxony. In the early 1830s, the first examples of these distinctively jagged stars, made of paper and cardboard, were conceptualized as a geometry lesson for boys whose parents, carrying out missionary work around the world, couldn’t be with them at Christmas. To give students a better understanding of geometry, a math teacher had the boys make star-shaped polyhedrons using paper and glue by attaching tall pyramids to multifaceted geometrical solids; a challenging math lesson which yielded beautiful effects in creativity producing unusually shaped stars which were later used as lanterns.

Thereafter, to help the boys feel less lonely at that special time of year, the idea arose to have the children make uniquely Moravian Christmas stars every Advent, as symbols of the Christian message of peace for their families abroad. As their popularity grew, some students began to sell them within their community.

In 1925, Verbeek’s grandson registered a patent for the first frameless Herrnhut Star, closely corresponding to the stars produced today. Partnering with the Moravian church’s global mission outreach made the production, sale, and distribution of Moravian Stars very successful worldwide. Continually handcrafted in the traditional way at the Herrnhut Star Co., the stars are produced with impressive speed and accuracy, and typically range in size from tiny tree ornaments about three inches in diameter to extra large models almost one hundred inches in diameter, and can be found displayed in many public spaces around the world including the Federal Chancellery in Berlin, the European Parliament in Brussels, and the Anglican Liverpool Cathedral. One of the largest in the world, sits atop the North Tower of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, reaching an impressive 31-feet in diameter.

Soon, there will be sounds of happy caroling thrown into the mix of lively community hustle and bustle as the most glittering Holiday season approaches, heralding to the world a time marked, for the most part, by the purity of the Moravian Star.

A 110-pointed star was invented as a challenge for the school’s 50th anniversary. Around 1880, a Niesky bookshop owner and the Paedagogium alumnus, Peter Hendrik Verbeek, invented the first star with points attached to a metal frame. This innovative design made it possible to take the stars apart, and ship them anywhere - hence, becoming commercially available in larger quantities. Peter’s son Harry went on to establish the Star Factory in Herrnhut, a small town in Saxony, becoming the main source for acquiring the beautifully shaped 26-point Herrnhut Stars (or Moravian Stars, as they quickly came to be known outside Germany).

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

Herrnhut Stars from left to right: 36”, 54” 110 Point Star, and 27” Garland

library corner

By Kara Edmonds • Library Director

Ready or not, we are moving into one of the most hectic times of the year. Our “busy-ness” and celebrations, while exciting and fun, can often cause us overload and stress.

Perhaps, this year, as we approach our winter festivities and gatherings of family and friends, we can be more purposeful about how we spend our time. Consider this... an audiobook to share with the kids on that long drive to Grandma’s house. Readalouds from favorite childhood books with your siblings over dessert. Maybe a group of friends read the same Kindle title so you can discuss it when you finally get together on Zoom. Or, after all the dishes are done, and everyone is sleepy from good food and talking, we all snuggle up with our own books and our own tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

Whatever you do during this busy season, we encourage you to be purposeful about how you spend your time--maybe that happens by reading a book that is soothing, maybe by saying no to a difficult family function. Sorry, we can’t help with that last one, but we can absolutely help with the previous ideas. Let us help you find your perfect books to meet your needs for this season. Let’s all make this season a great one!

TAKE THE LIBRARY CHALLENGE

Eye of the Tiger plays in the background. Your neverending TBR list is staring you down. You keep coming home with one too many library books that you can’t finish... and yet – there always seems to be more.

Join us in accomplishing a few books on your list and a few on ours by taking the library challenge! This exciting opportunity comes on our new 2023 calender, which is available at the library for a $3 donation.

The calender includes 48 different categories. Here are a few of our favorites, but to try them all, come get one for yourself and try it out!

Kara: “A Book With An Inhuman Character”

Borderline, by Mishell Baker, is the first book in the Arcadia Project trilogy, which follows a deeply flawed, tortured heroine into an investigation that gets...pretty weird. Unique baggage and quirky humor creates a character for which I would Ride.or.Die. Oh no, wait, the new prosthetic legs Millie wears due to a failed suicide attempt means she can’t drive, yet. I’ll drive, she rides shotgun.

Chris: “A Book By A Female Author”

The Black Prince, by Iris Murdoch, is a ridiculously funny and yet intensely philosophical story about love, art, and passion, and their countless intersections. A brilliant balance of dark humor and emotional probity, it is doubtless one of my favorite books. Ever.

Brenda: “A Book Recommended by a Friend”

I chose Agatha of Little Neon, an intriguing book centered around its main character, Agatha, a Catholic sister. The

book gives the reader insight into the lives of women wearing the habit; It’s about sisterhood, friendship and religious devotion, about figuring out how we fit in (or not) and about the unexpected individuals who help us find our true selves along life’s journey. A wonderful read recommended by a coworker.

Jackie: “A Book Published This Year”

For my challenge, I picked Ali Hazelwood’s August 2022 release, Love On The Brain. This contemporary romance features STEM heroine Bee Konigswasser, who has been offered a lead position on an exciting initiative for NASA. Enemies to Lovers meets Academia in this steamy yet corny Booktok staple.

Cheyenne: “A Book Translated From A Different Language”

Temple Alley Summer is about Kazu, who wakes up one night and sees a young girl walking out of his house in the middle of the night. She must be a ghost, but the next day at school she is there. Everyone is shocked Kazu doesn’t remember Akira, they all seem to have years of memories with her. As the book evolves, Kazu decides to research the Kimyo Temple, a place connected to a legend about the dead rising, getting Kazu wrapped up into a crazy adventure to help old and new friends.

Atlas: “A Book With A One Word Title”

The book I chose is Bunny by Mona Awad, a weird topsy-turvy novel that has the feel of both Heathers and Alice in Wonderland. The novel follows main protagonist Samantha Heather Mackey as she gets drawn into a clique-turned-cult in her upscale art school, and as she tries to make nice with a group of annoying, saccharine sweet girls, reality starts to bend. Fast paced and intriguing, Mona Awad definitely keeps you on your toes!

HIGH DEMAND SHELF BRIMMING WITH NEW TITLES

We’ve been hard at work filling our High Demand Shelf with New Fiction for your winter reading escapades!

This October/November, our library has purchased over 350 items to add to our selection, including DVDS, Audiobooks, and new fiction. Many of these items are new, trending hardbacks that are placed on our HighDemand shelf.

If you’re a regular visitor of the library, be sure to check out our New Fiction section, located to the left of the building, by the Circulation Desk. We add new titles every single week and our stock is often changing. The books on this shelf are never there for more than 6 months, so be sure to check out the selection for yourself!

NEW ADULT SECTION COMES TO LIBRARY

As of November, we’re happy to announce our New Adult section is finally here!

This library section targets ages 1829 and books in this genre often features protagonists that are leaving home, negotiating education, determining career choices, and exploring sexuality.

This genre has gained popularity in

recent years due to its relatiability and it’s capability to target a specific audience that’s often overlooked.

Our Catalogouer, Atlas, has taken a special interest in this section, ensuring that books meet the distinguishing features of the New Adult genre.

To get help finding our New Adult section, be sure to ask someone at the Circulation Desk when you visit the library! We’d be happy to show you our ever-growing selection.

GRAPHIC NOVELS HIT THE SHELVES

Love graphic novels? We do too! Graphic novels are a great way to enjoy reading and they simultaneously help to develop verbal and visual literacy. No matter what age you are, graphic novels are an exciting literary adventure to try.

This fall, we’ve focused on adding even more graphic novels to our collection, so be sure to check out some of the many new titles we’ve been adding!

GINGERBREAD HOUSES MAKE A COMEBACK

For the first time since 2019, our annual Dimmick Gingerbread House Contest is finally back! Your cookie creations will once again grace our library shelves and we’re so

excited to see what you all come up with!

Applications are available now, at the circulation desk, and drop off is December 9th. Individuals or families are welcome to enter and the general public is encouraged to participate.

Once the houses are installed, we will allow library visitors to vote by purchasing a ticket. The three gingerbread houses with the most votes will win library merchandise! We are so excited to see what you all come up with! For more information about how to enter the contest (or vote!), please call the circulation desk.

IMPRESS YOUR FRIENDS WITH NEW LIBRARY MERCH!

Support your local library and update your closet with our one-of-a-kind Dimmick merchandise!

In stock now (and the perfect gift for the holidays), we have tote bags in a variety of colors, from mint to pink to navy... and more! We also have tshirts, sweatshirts, and long sleeve shirts in so many colors and sizes. Best of all, prices range from affordable to affordable! Come on down and clear our closets! Your support directly impacts the Dimmick Library.

library calendar

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 Wednesday 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

PENN KIDDER EVENTS:

STORYTIME FOR AGES 0-5

Every Wednesday at 11am

CLASSICS CLUB

3rd Tuesday of the month from 6:00-7:30pm

Holiday Crafts Are Here!

Get in out of the cold and join us for some fun holiday crafting this season! We have a few different events happening so be sure to join us! No pre-registration is necessary, but we do have limited room due to supplies, so first come first serve.

December 1st: Come and design your own ornaments! We’ll be painting wooden ornaments like Santa, Trees, Snowflakes, Snowmen, Gingerbread Men, Stockings, and Presents. There’s something for everyone! This event will be from 6-7pm.

December 8th: Join us for a fun Gingerbread craft! We will be creating wooden houses out of a kit and then painting and designing them! This is a two hour event from 5-7pm.

Winter Storytime

Storytime is held in person every Tuesday morning beginning at 10AM at the Dimmick. The following are our winter storytime themes: Dec 6: Manners

Dec 13: Gingerbread

Dec 20: Holiday Dec 27: Pajamas

Jan 3: Snowman

Jan 10: Hats and Gloves

Jan 17: Winnie the Pooh

Jan 24: Winter Animals

Jan 31: Hot Cocoa

For

WINTER SCHEDULE

Art Class with Jean Perry—“Starry Night”

Saturday, December 3, 10:00 a.m. to Noon

What was Van Gogh thinking when he painted this famous work? After a brief discussion about the colorful and flowing piece, artists will follow up with their own painting skills, guided by instructor.

With a power point and step by step presentation, create your masterpiece in acrylics on canvas.

All materials supplied for a $20 fee. No children, please.

Holiday Crafts

Wednesday, December 14, 6:00 p.m. Brighten up the holiday with some hand-crafted items: Candle holders, wreaths, jewelry, gift bags and tree ornament projects will be available for everyone. Holiday music and refreshments will round out the night. There is a $10 fee per adult participant, and pre-registration is a must. All ages are welcome.

151 East White Bear Drive in Summit Hill, PA • 570-645-8597 • www.carboneec.org

Grounds and trails open all daylight hours

Wildlife emergency? TEXT or call (570) 233-3384

America’s Oldest

Drive-in Theater Changes

Hands for First Time in 40 Years

The Moving Picture Cinema, helmed by drive-in veteran Matthew McClanahan and partner Lauren McChesney, announced it has purchased Shankweiler’s Drive-In Theatre, effective November 4, becoming the fourth set of owners in the theater’s 88year history.

Shankweiler’s Drive-In Theatre was the second drive-in theater ever built, in 1934, and is the oldest existing drive-in theater in America. Former owners, Paul and Susan Geissinger, purchased the property in 1984.

McClanahan, 32, previously revived and ran The Mahoning Drive-In Theater in Lehighton, Pa. from 2014-2020. He has owned and operated The Moving Picture Cinema, a full-service mobile cinema, since 2019.

“I grew up going to Shankweiler’s to see movies with my family,” says McClanahan. “It’s such an honor to be able to craft those memories for future generations while preserving a significant piece of American history.”

Shankweiler’s Drive-In Theatre will resume operations in November and continue with a limited schedule through the winter, with a grand re-opening to follow in Spring 2023.

CCCF Receives ‘Outstanding Foundation’ Award

The Carbon County Community Foundation was recognized as the 2022 Outstanding Foundation at the National Philanthropy Day Awards Breakfast hosted by the Eastern PA Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) on Wednesday, November 2nd.

The National Philanthropy Day awards were presented in front of a crowd of 250 attendees representing nonprofit organizations, funders, and local philanthropists from the Greater Lehigh Valley.

The Outstanding Foundation Award recognizes a foundation that demonstrates

outstanding commitment to philanthropy through charitable support and leadership in the community.

“We are thrilled to have been selected to receive this award and are honored by the recognition,” said Sharon Alexander, CCCF President. “I am so proud of the work that the Carbon County Community Foundation is doing in the region, and none of this would be possible without the support of this incredibly generous community and the amazing nonprofit and community groups to whom we grant funding. On behalf of the CCCF Board and Founders, thank you so much to AFP for this award and we look forward to continuing to live up to this honor.”

Women in Business Holiday Celebration

A Very 80’s Christmas is coming Thursday December 8th from 11 am - 1pm at The 80’s Bar, 634 Patterson St. Lansford PA 18232

There will be networking, Lunch, Music, Holiday Sweater Contest, Cash Bar, Raffles and Special Guests!

All Are Welcome & Encouraged to Attend this Fun Filled Networking Event! Bring extra business cards to enter our raffles - win a free ticket to an upcoming networking mixer!

We will also be collecting essential items for a local non-profit (more to come)

Fees/Admission;

$25 for Members

$35 for Future Members/Community Members

*48 hours cancellation notice required for refund considerations

Location: The 80’s Bar, 634 Patterson Street in Lansford.

Pennsylvania CareerLink

PA CareerLink® Carbon County connects Carbon County residents and employers with resources, tools, and information to all things workforce related within Carbon County. Customers, which include jobseekers and employers, can obtain information and resources involving jobs, employment, and training.

The following services highlight a few of the benefits PA CareerLink® can provide Job Seekers: Information covering free education and training assistance, adult basic education, individuals with disabilities or limited English skills, EARN Program, and resume or interview assistance. Specialized youth and veterans’ assistance programs are also available to jobseekers.

Employers: Training information regarding On-the-Job or Incumbent Worker Training, and apprenticeships. Job postings, placement assistance, and information regarding Career Fairs.

Youth: Paid work experience, training and tuition information and services, GED obtainment information and assistance.

Our location in Nesquehoning offers free computers, printers, and fax machines available to the public at no cost.

For more information on PA CareerLink® services, please contact the PA CareerLink® Carbon County office at (570) 325-2701, or visit our location at

50 E. Locust St, Suite 1, Nesquehoning, PA 18240. Visit www.pacareerlink.pa.gov to create a profile and resume, apply for jobs, or search for all services and information available to the job seekers and employers.

You’re Invited to the Palmerton Chamber - Welcome New Business Pizza Luncheon

Let’s Celebrate! You are cordially invited to attend the Palmerton Chamber/ Community luncheon meeting.

We are celebrating your new business in town. We will give you 10 or more minutes to describe your business. This will give you the opportunity to let other businesses and community members know about your business.

Please RSVP to Joe or Marj Federanich 610-826-5777

Menu is Pizza and Soft Drink

Date/Time: Wednesday, December 14th

Fees/Admission: $10.00

Location: West End Saloon 1121 Mauch Chunk Road

Improving Health Care Delivery

A new law adopted by the General Assembly earlier this fall will help improve the timely delivery of health care services by reforming the prior authorization process in the Commonwealth.

Act 146 of 2022 aims to simplify the prior authorization process, making it more effective, consistent and transparent. The law will require insurers to make available an electronic communications network that permits prior authorization requests to be submitted electronically, and authorizations and adverse determinations to likewise by returned electronically. It also gives the Pennsylvania Insurance Department authority over external reviews of benefit determinations under the Affordable Care Act.

prevent child abuse and neglect. Since its inception, CTF has invested more than $40 million through 320 grants.

Still, child abuse and neglect are significant problems throughout the United States as well as Pennsylvania. Over 3 million children per year are abused or neglected in the U.S., and over 40,000 are the subject of reports in Pennsylvania. It has been estimated that 1 in 1,000 children in Pennsylvania are abused or neglected, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Funds for the CTF traditionally are generated from a $10 surcharge on all applications for marriage licenses and divorce complaints; however, those funds have been in decline for the last 10 years. The new donation opportunity will help generate funds for CTF and raise awareness of its mission.

Deadline Nears for Property Tax/Rent Rebate

Program

Hunters Sharing the Harvest (HSH) is Pennsylvania’s venison donation program for hunters who share their extra venison via a statewide network of participating butchers to food pantries and community assistance centers across the Commonwealth. One deer provides about 200 servings of high-protein, low-fat venison. Thanks to the program’s generous supporters, hunters pay nothing to ensure their venison helps to provide a warm meal to someone in need in their community.

The program reported near record participation last year with 187,426 pounds of venison donated in the 2021-22 deer seasons. HSH has distributed more than 2 million pounds of donated venison since 1991. More information about the program and how to participate is available at www.sharedeer.org.

Heating Assistance Program

Now Open

With the new law, the Commonwealth joins 44 other states that already have external review authority. The major provisions of the law take effect in January 2024.

Aiding the Fight Against Child Abuse, Neglect

Pennsylvanians looking for opportunities to help protect our children will soon have the opportunity to make a $5 charitable donation to the Children’s Trust Fund (CTF) when renewing their driver’s license or state identification card.

Established by law in 1988, CTF’s mission is to fund three-year grants to community-based programs that help

Older adults and Pennsylvanians with disabilities have until Dec. 31 to apply for the state’s 2021 Property Tax/Rent Rebate program. Remember, assistance through my offices is always free. You need not pay a private firm for assistance.

The rebate program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older. The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters, and half of Social Security income is excluded.

Hunters Can Share Their Harvest

The state Department of Agriculture and Pennsylvania Game Commission are again encouraging hunters to consider sharing their deer harvest to provide thousands of pounds of venison to people in need.

Residents who struggle with their home heating bills can now apply for assistance from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

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. For example, the income limit for an individual is $20,385 and for a family of four it is $41,625.

Residents may apply for LIHEAP online at www.compass.state.pa.us, by phone at 1-866-550-4355 or by contacting the County Assistance Office in their county of residence. The program runs through April 28, 2023.

JIM THORPE BOROUGH DIRECTORY

101 East 10th Street

Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 www.jtborough.org

General Information (570) 325-3025

Emergency 9-1-1 Emergency Management (570) 325-3097

Water (570) 325-2631

Sewerage (570) 325-2547

Zoning and Codes (570) 325-3025 Streets (570) 325-2844

School District (570) 325-3691

Police Department (570) 325-4995

Fire Department (570) 325-3811