The Jim Thorpe Current - January 2019

The CURRENT

The Jim Thorpe Current

GO • SEE • DO JIM THORPE

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

Serving The Jim Thorpe Area

January 2019 • 1

jimthorpecurrent.com I JANUARY 2019

Galen Glen Winery’s 6th Annual Chili Cook Off A fun-raiser that helps local first responders

Winter

Fun

By Kathy Matson Special to The Current

I

t all started in the summer of 2013 when the management staff at Galen Glen Winery was planning events for the 2014 calendar year. They were thinking that the fall harvest season sparks much interest in their 20+ acre vineyard and the holiday season that follows draws fans from far and wide for gift giving and entertaining ideas but what about January?

January in our area is great if you love to ski or participate in other winter sports but if the outdoors is not your thing, what is there to do? Where’s the fun? January needed a fun-raiser!

That’s when the idea of a chili cook off began to form. Much like the proverbial snowball down the hill, it has continued to grow and evolve in the years that followed. In January of 2014 six contestants entered the first chili cook off. It drew over 150 people to taste and vote and the winner was Todd Keller of Kutztown.

Galen Glen staff notes that there was irony in this win as we had no idea how many people would come or how much chili to ask the chefs to prepare. Todd ran out of chili in the first hour so ballots given after that had his name removed and yet, he still won with his Tex-Mex Chili.

After the success of that event, the staff at Galen Glen decided the Fun-Raiser should become a Fund-Raiser (there’s still Fun in that). Future chili cook off events would benefit their local first responders of The West Penn Fire Company. Galen Troxell, winegrower, stated, “Our local volunteers do so much for this community and are consistently working to raise the funds needed to stay operational, the winery wanted to help.”

Since January of 2015 this event has raised thousands of dollars for the fire company to afford new, life-saving equipment.

Steam Locomotive 425

Jim Thorpe is amazing in any weather, but a blanket of snow adds a little something special. Winter festivals spread warmth and good cheer throughout the town while holiday train excursions delight passengers of all ages. Downhill and cross-country skiing, as well as paintball, snowshoeing and other winter sports can be enjoyed at destinations around the area.

Photo by Kevin Madore

How would you like a Butler in your Home?

Story and Photos By Christopher Holland The Current Contributing Writer

C On January 19, 2019, Galen Glen will host their Sixth Annual Chili Cook Off. They welcome guests from the area and visitors to our community to attend and vote for the winning chili. For $9, each guest over the age of 21 will receive a sample of chili from each of the five contestants and a glass of wine. In addition they will receive a ballot to vote for their favorite chili. $5 from every guest who attends and votes will be given to the fire company. The winner of the competition will receive a $100 gift certificate to the winery and other wine-related gifts.

Continued on page 8

arbon County is flourishing with small businesses, and a new player just joined the team in Lehighton.

Robin G. Balint and Sean J. Balint recently opened Butler in the Home Gift Boutique at 499 S. Ninth St. in the borough. After relocating from New Jersey, the couple ran their business out of their home, before running out of space to work and opening the new storefront. What started out as a small endeavor specializing in selling paper clips on Amazon, the business now sells a multitude of products and uses a lot of local sources for its inventory. Here to talk about the business with The Current are the owners, Robin and Sean.

Robin and Sean Balint of Butler in the Home Gift Boutique

The Current: Where are you from?

Robin G. Balint and Sean J. Balint: We are both originally from New Jersey. Robin is from Rahway, NJ and Sean is from Woodbridge, NJ. We have lived in Lehighton for five years.

The Current: You recently opened Butler in the Home Gift Boutique (on what date was the grand opening?)

Balint: We didn’t officially have a grand opening yet, but we opened our doors on September 18th, 2018. We are both owners.

The Current: What made you get into the gift and boutique business and how long have you been doing it?

Balint: We have had an online business for over four years selling shaped paper clips on Amazon. We were doing it out of our home here in Lehighton. The business outgrew our home and we were looking for office space/storage space to package up the paper clips to send into Amazon. Sean also has a full-time job as a computer Continued on page 11

2 • January 2019

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

The Jim Thorpe Current

The Jim Thorpe Current

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

POCONOS SKIING

Modest mountains. Deep snow. Short lines.

Fast lifts. Impeccably groomed trails.

By Rachel Camaerei Communications Coordinator • PMVB

S

ound like a dream come true? It’s time to stop dreaming, shift your winter into high gear and plan your incredible Pocono skiing vacation where anyone can find their little slice of heaven.

With a history dating back to 1946 when the Pocono Mountains welcomed the first commercial ski area in Pennsylvania and perfected the art of snowmaking, the Poconos have become a bonafide ski destination. Today, the Poconos have it all… whether it be the corduroy groomed beginner slopes or the double black diamonds and terrain parks to test your skills. Get out and experience the exhilaration when your skis start sliding down a Pocono slope.

Need ski gear? The Pocono Mountains offers plenty of locations for equipment rental where you can stop at along the way and get geared up to hit the slopes! Or rentals are available at all area ski resorts in PA; Blue Mountain Ski Resort, Camelback Mountains Resort, Jack Frost - Big Boulder, Shawnee Mountain and Ski Big Bear.

Big Boulder Ski Area • Lake Harmony Trails: Up to 16 • Lifts: Up to 8 This season: New this year, $500K has been put into snowmaking and grooming equipment upgrades and restaurants, lodges and trail improvements. Five terrain parks allow the ultimate Pocono freestyle at Big Boulder. Operations are primarily at night, with extended daytime hours over holidays and weekends. Check out holiday specials and exclusive discounts for military, with expanded savings for active, retired and honorably discharged vets.

Jack Frost Mountain • Blakeslee Trails: Up to 20 • Lifts: Up to 9 This season: Upgraded snow equipment calls for optimum conditions at Jack Frost. Purchase your Peak Pass and sign your kids up for the Junior Development and Competition Teams for an additional fee. With your Peak Pass, you’ll even gain access to seven Peak Resorts across the Northeastern United States, including sister mountain Big Boulder! New this year, the Peak Discover Program provides three step-by-step packaged learning lessons available at all Peak Resorts.

Blue Mountain Resort • Palmerton Trails: Up to 39 • Lifts: Up to 16 This season: Gear up for this season with Blue Mountain, literally. Blue has updated its rental equipment by a modest $400,000. And to make things easier, a new e-store will allow guests to rent equipment and buy tickets online, and check-in with a simple phone scan once arriving. Why wait in line when you can hit the slopes faster? Cruise down the trails, or challenge yourself on Razor’s Edge, a 3,000foot double black diamond trail.

Camelback Mountain • Tannersville Trails: Up to 38 • Lifts: Up to 16 This season: Prepping for the season, Camelback has upgraded its snow equipment and added a new trail, terrain park and beginner acreage. Two new ski-in, ski-out restaurants have been added as well; Berrelli’s Family Style Italian and Kartrite’s Summit House.

For a limited time, grab your Triple Ticket and experience three days of snow sport fun or purchase your Hero or Super Pass for the ski season, and get a Camelbeach Season Pass valid for summer 2019!

Shawnee Mountain Ski Area • East Stroudsburg Trails: Up to 23 • Lifts: Up to 11 This season: Shawnee Mountain caters to all level skill types, so everyone can take advantage of the newly upgraded grooming and snowmaking equipment. Save on winter fun this year with Shawnee’s Maxi-Misers programs.

Enjoy skiing and riding any day, any time with either the Lift, Lift and Rental or 3 Day Learn to Ski/Snowboard passes. Enjoy newly upgraded rental equipment and charging stations in the Hope and Trepp Lodges.

Ski Big Bear • Lackawaxen • Lifts: Up to 7 This season: New and improved for the 201819 ski season, Ski Big Bear has installed new snow guns throughout the mountain. With new incentives for residents as well as nearby lodging packages for visitors, Ski Big Bear is bringing the savings to the slopes. Catch even more deals and discounts in January during Learn to Ski/Snowboard month. Choose from rental packages, unlimited season passes or become a member and receive new, exclusive perks.

January 2019 • 3

OLDE TIME CHRISTMAS 2018!

Another One in the History Books…

The Jim Thorpe Tourism Agency presented the 37th annual Olde Time Christmas… and with a variety of events throughout the holiday season, there was fun for all!

In typical ‘Small Town Style’, the season opened with Santa’s arrival, naturally delivered by the courtesy of the Diligent Fire Company. Santa was joined at the tree lighting by Mayor Sofranko and the Carbon County Fair Queen… each assisting in kicking off the holiday festivities!

As expected- the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway’s Santa Train was a huge and special hit with folks young and old… Between train rides, children could get their photos with Santa inside the Train Station. The generous donations collected will be donated to our local charities of Turn to Us, Carbon County Animal Shelter and Peaceful Knights.

There were many holiday offerings found throughout the Historic District— from strolling musicians and carolers to circus performers — special thanks go out to the

shops and eateries of the town for putting the red carpet out for locals and visitors alike!

Perhaps most enjoyable was the Christmas Kid’s Club each weekend presented at the Mauch Chunk Ballroom… with free family entertainment, kids crafts, face painting and refreshments. A great time from this new event!

And closing Olde Time Christmas was Cookies and Cocktails… with shops welcoming participants with everything from home-baked cookies to hot chocolate to … well… other treats too. This much-loved fixture was capped with an after-party, thus closing yet another iconic Jim Thorpe event!

We’ll see you soon at WinterFest 2019!

4 • January 2019

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

The Jim Thorpe Current

Recollections of the Early Years of the D & L From Dustin Schoof • Communications Coordinator Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, Inc.

For nearly 30 years, Steve Humphrey served as Executive Director of the National Canal Museum and Hugh Moore Historical Park. During the D&L’s formative years, Steve was there. Now retired to eastern Virginia from the National Clock & Watch Museum, Steve recounted the D&L’s early history.

I

first became acquainted with the Lehigh and Delaware Canals when I was appointed executive director of the Hugh Moore Park and Canal Museum in October 1974 by City of Easton Mayor Fred Ashton. My early years with the Hugh Moore Park were focused on restoration of the canal and the development of park amenities such as bike paths, pavilions, and playgrounds. After these activities, the development of the mule-drawn canal boat and expansion of the museum became priorities.

Like Easton, other municipalities along the Lehigh River purchased the former lands of the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company when they were sold off in the 1950s and 60s.

During this time I became acquainted with Dr. Isidore (Bill) Mineo, who was director of Northampton County Parks. Bill Mineo was involved in not only Northampton County Parks but also regional recreational planning. In the 1970s park grants and technical advice were available through the Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and the DCA regional recreation and park supervisor for our area was C. Allen Sachse.

Through the impetus of Bill Mineo, Allen Sachse, and others, a project was put together to do a Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service (HCRS) study of the Lehigh Canal. A team headed by Dr. T. Allan Comp spent the summer of 1979 studying the Lehigh Canal and adjacent historically significant sites. The team consisted of 10 student and professional historians, architects, archaeologists and planners. They studied the recreation and rehabilitation potential of the 150-year-old Lehigh Canal, its environs, and selected structures along its banks.

The team was tasked to develop recommendations regarding the canal study area as a cultural recreation trail and suggest ways for accomplishing that goal. This was the first time that the canal was looked at as a regional resource spanning the 46 miles from Jim Thorpe to Easton. This report was later key in showing the historical significance of the Lehigh Canal during the early stages of proposed legislation for the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor.

The Delaware Canal parallels the Delaware River sixty miles from Easton to Bristol and operated until 1932. Almost a decade later the canal was acquired by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a State Park through the efforts of the Delaware Valley Protective Association, an early preservation group in Bucks County. The state maintained the canal as the Theodore Roosevelt State Park, with the towpath serving as a trail with picnic areas along the way. The park struggled to maintain the canal in a watered condition due to deteriorated structures, flooding and lack of funding.

The Delaware Canal was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1978. Due to public concern for the canal, a new preservation group, the Friends of the Delaware Canal was formed in 1982, spearheaded

by Betty Orlemann.

Through the efforts of the Friends and supportive state legislators in Bucks County, funds were acquired in 1986 to do a master plan for the Delaware Canal. An RFP was issued and a contract was awarded to a team consisting of two firms, Urban Research and Development (URDC) of Bethlehem, PA headed by David H. Humphrey (no relation to me), and Hugh Moore Historical Park and Museums (HMHPM) headed by me, J. Steven Humphrey. The plan required a year of research, public meetings, gathering input from the State, Friends and other partners and finally developing options and priorities.

Mansion House Bridge connecting the D&L Bike Trail in Downtown Jim Thorpe

Just before finalizing publication of the master plan, I received a newsletter from the recently created Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor. This was the first national heritage corridor to be created and the concept seemed ideal to help meet some of the goals in the master plan. To insure a broader significance and the chance for bi-partisan support, I inserted a recommendation for a National Delaware and Lehigh Canal Corridor spanning the historic anthracite coal route from Wilkes-Barre to Bristol.

When the master plan was issued in July of 1987, this recommendation for a potential recreation corridor was explained on pages 34-35 of the plan and page 30 of the plan summary.

Another recommendation was to rename the park, Delaware Canal State Park which was implemented after adoption of the plan.

In late 1987 or early 1988, Congressman Peter Kostmayer proposed a Delaware Canal National Heritage Corridor after reviewing the Delaware Canal Master Plan. Upon learning of his proposal, I contacted his office and briefed them on the recommendation for a Delaware and Lehigh Canal National Heritage Corridor. I informed the Congressman and his staff, that the two canals together would provide greater historical and cultural significance, and by enlisting Congressman Don Ritter from the Lehigh Valley it would become a bipartisan proposal.

After consideration, Congressman Kostmayer, Steve Humphrey D-8th District, contacted Congressman Ritter’s, R-15th District, office and the two Congressman cosponsored legislation that was introduced on February 17, 1988 to create a National Heritage Corridor along the route of the Lehigh and Delaware Canals.

Both Congressman were thought to be in tight races for reelection in 1988 and both political parties went out of their way to help their candidates. This caused the Corridor legislation to be fast tracked and allowed it make it through Congress before the November election. After the bill was introduced, a hearing was held in Yardley, PA on April 11, 1988 followed later by a hearing in Washington, DC. As with many new ideas in Washington, the idea of heritage areas had opposition.

The Office of Management and Budget raised the issue of whether the area had national significance. Congressman Ritter contacted Secretary of the Interior Donald P. Hodel who was a friend and arranged for him to tour the proposed corridor. Lance Metz, historian for the Canal Museum, prepared a program that featured excerpts from “Iron Bridge”, a BBC and PBS Nova presentation comparing the Lehigh River valley with the Severn River valley in England as birthplaces of the respective countries industrial revolutions. He also briefed the Secretary on other aspects of historical and cultural significance in the Delaware and Lehigh Valleys.

Afterward we traveled to Center Valley where Congressman Ritter had arranged for a donated helicopter to give the Secretary an aerial overview of the proposed corridor. The Secretary, Congressman Ritter and I spent time flying the proposed corridor pointing out areas of significance. After the Secretary’s visit, the question of significance was never again raised.

On Aug. 9, 1988, the US House unanimously approved legislation to create a National Heritage Corridor along the Delaware and Lehigh Canals. In an attempt to meet various objections, a revised bill was considered and passed by the House on Sept. 13. The bill was considered and passed by the Senate with amendments on Oct. 14. The House concurred on certain Senate amendments and disagreed to another on Oct. 19. The Senate receded from its amendment on Oct. 20 allowing the bill to be forwarded to the President.

President Reagan, who was nearing the end of his second term, signed the bill on November 18, 1988 enacting the D&L Heritage Corridor act, Public Law 100-692. The heritage corridor bill took nine months from introduction until enactment into law, an almost unheard of accomplishment.

A 21-member Federal commission was authorized to oversee the implementation of the legislation. The commission had the following representatives: the Director of the National Park service, one representative each from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources, the Historical and Museum Commission, the Department of Commerce/Economic Development Partnership and the Department of Community Affairs, eight representatives from local government and eight private citizens. The work of appointing the twenty-one member Commission turned out to be much more difficult than the legislation as recommendations had to be made by the Democratic Governor and approved by the Republican appointed Secretary of the Interior with political input from many levels of government.

Prior to the appointment of the Commission, the National Park Service’s (NPS) planning staff worked on our initial setup and organized meetings. The Commission met for the first time in April 1990 at Lehigh University to start its work. Willis M. Rivinus served as the first chair of the Commission followed by Donald Miles Bernhard. I served as treasurer for the Commission for 17 years.

Work began on the management action plan for the Delaware & Lehigh Canal National Heritage Corridor and State Heritage Park which was completed in January 1993 after almost three years of work involving hundreds of people and organizations. Along with the NPS planning staff, a consultant team was retained headed by Mary Means & Associates.

Funding initially was an annual Federal appropriation of $350,000 and an additional $150,000 from the Pennsylvania Heritage Parks Program. C. Allen Sachse from the PA Department of Community Affairs served as interim director during the startup of the corridor until David B. Witwer was hired as the first executive director in March 1991. Executive director David Witwer and secretary Migdalia (Millie) Alvarez, were hired through the Federal personnel system. Interpretive specialist Sue Pridemore was detailed to the Commission from the NPS through a cooperative agreement.

Several years later when David Witwer departed, it became evident that it was almost impossible to hire an executive director through the Federal personnel system who would be able fulfill the qualifications approved by the Commission. After looking at various alternatives, it was decided to implement a cooperative agreement with the Hugh Moore Historical Park and Museums to provide personnel to the Corridor Commission.

Starting in 1996, all heritage corridor staff were HMHPM employees until the Federal Commission was replaced by the current non-profit corporation. The first executive director hired under this arrangement was Gerald Bastoni who served until his untimely death in 1998.

C. Allen Sachse was hired as Executive Director in 1999 and continued after the transition to a non-profit as President and served until 2012 when Elissa Garofalo was appointed as President and Executive Director.

Federal, State and other funds, untold hours of staff time donated from corridor organizations, individual volunteer hours, and a dedicated staff have provided the fuel to develop and sustain the heritage corridor. The resulting recreational, cultural and economic impacts in the five county area are truly amazing. To see the outcome of what started as a mention in the Delaware Canal Master Plan in 1987 to what the D&L Heritage Corridor has become today is a great source of pride to me and I appreciate the opportunity to have been actively involved from its beginning through 2007. I have also been heartened by the merger of the Corridor with the Hugh Moore Historical Park and Museums and its National Canal Museum where I served as executive director for 29 years.

One of the greatest privileges of my involvement has been the chance to work with people like Lance Metz, Charlie Derr, Bill Yoder, Don Bernhardt, Allen Sachse, Bill Mineo, Will Rivinus, Betty Orlemann, Carole Wildoner-Walbert, Ann Bartholomew, Kathleen Hammerstone, Roberta Longenbach, Kurt Zwikl, Bill Mitchell, Annie Sanders, Gerry Bastoni, Charlie Petrillo, Dennis DeMara, Larry Williamson, Ray Angeli, Joe DiBello, Deidre Gibson, and countless others.

The Jim Thorpe Current

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

January 2019 • 5

6 • January 2019

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

The Jim Thorpe Current

pocono bits PMVB Travel Guide to Highlight Pocono Businesses

The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau is hoping to attain potential tourists from over the eastern USA by releasing the official travel guide this spring.

The bureau has plans to distribute the travel guide, that will highlight businesses, restaurants, resorts and attractions over the region, through the entire tri-state beyond and area.

“It’s a crucial little bit of the puzzle for guests to produce a decision to go to us,” said Chris Barrett, president and CEO of Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau (PMVB). “Despite the fact that we use digital tools really aggressively there’s still plenty of guests who prefer to have that piece before they come here to go to.”

that visitors and potential guests may use to learn concerning the area, discover things you can do, find places to remain and unearth the plethora of attractions and activities the Poconos have to give you.

“We at Bailey Design & Advertising are thrilled to be working again this season with the PMVB in the expansion of the travel magazine to add all counties of the Pocono Mountains,” said Meica Drake, production manager of Bailey Advertising and Design.

“We have been excited to keep to utilize and build new relationships with all the current great businesses which are in your community.”

Businesses seeking to advertise in the guide can contact Drake by email at cmag@ ptd.net or by phone at 570-251-1512.

Businesses thinking about learning to be a known person in the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau can contact them by email at Ktruitt@poconos.org.

Pocono Airport Receives Grant

The travel guide will encompass attractions and businesses from across four counties.

As the Poconos is actually a prominent destination in the northeast, Barrett said the consensus was an official travel guide could strengthen the region’s reputation as a destination further even.

In days gone by, people from beyond your region seeking the official travel guide have approached Barrett and he’s got had nothing to provide them.

“The necessity for the official Pocono Mountains travel guide became apparent whenever we started getting requests from a large number of guests and people at industry events for a printed visitor guide and map of the spot with accurate information and strong content,” Barrett said.

Creating the official guide to the spot is a priority for the PMVB since Barrett joined in April 2017. The bureau has teamed up with Bailey Design and Advertising, based out of Honesdale, to generate the travel guide.

The goal would be to develop a guide

Gov. Tom Wolf’s office recently announced that the Pocono Mountains Municipal Airport would be getting a boost through the form of a $30,000 grant.

The airport is one of 26 across the Commonwealth that will be receiving more than $6 million in total for infrastructure and equipment upgrades.

“With more than 400 airports across the state, this support from my administration helps keep aviation a viable transportation alternative and adds to our economy as well,” Governor Wolf said. “These airports support hundreds of thousands of jobs and offer services that are attractive to the business community and others interested in general aviation.”

Across the state, the 26 airports received anywhere from $9,000 to $552,000 for improvements. Of the $6 million that was distributed $2.2 million came in the form of state funding from the state Transportation Department’s Aviation Development Program, which comes from the state’s jet fuel tax, and $4 million came from the multimodal fund.

According to a press release from Gov. Wolf’s office, the $30,000 for the Pocono Mountains Municipal Airport will be used to

Pocono Mountains Municipal Airport

purchase equipment to maintain the airfield.

State Rep. Maureen Madden (D-115) underlined the importance of the airport in a press release.

“Investments into the upkeep and maintenance of the airport are necessary,” Madden said. “The airport provides significant and positive economic impact on our region, and this funding aids in assuring operations will continue to be safe and efficient.

Heritage Hill to Hold AARP Smart Driver Refresher Course

Are construction, detours, and other roadway challenges causing you to question your driving capabilities? Thanks to Heritage Hill Senior Community and AARP, you can refresh your driving skills by attending an AARP Smart Driver™ Refresher Course on Thursday, Jan. 10 from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

The course’s design is an excellent reinforcement tool to the changing dynamics of driving. Even if you know the rules of the road—many rules have changed! Increase your safe driving skills and recognize your driving capabilities due to age-related physical changes. Throughout the course, you will learn techniques to defensive driving, and how to handle your vehicle during challenging driving conditions. In addition, learn about the new technology found in modernized vehicles.

Successful completion can result in discounts on car insurance (contact your insurance agent for details). The course is available to drivers, aged 55 years and older.

The cost of the course for AARP members, with proof of membership, is $15 per person. The cost for non-members is $20 per person. All participants must bring their AARP membership card (if applicable) and a valid driver’s license.

This event includes lunch, courtesy of Heritage Hill. Seating is limited. Registration required by Jan. 7. Please call Rachael or Jessica at 570-427-4500.

Heritage Hill Senior Community is a unique, award-winning Personal Care and Memory Care community located at 800 6th St., Weatherly, PA. Personal Care and Memory Care apartments are available on an affordable month-tomonth lease with no buy-in fees. Resident services include assistance with daily living, meals, housekeeping and laundry, medication management, social events and transportation. For more information visit www.heritagehillsenior.com.

Palmerton Area Community to Host Blood Drive on January 14

The Palmerton Area Community will be hosting a Blood Drive on Wednesday, January 14, 2019 from 11:30 am – 6:30 pm, in partnership with Miller-Keystone Blood Center (MKBC) at the St. Luke’s Hospital, Palmerton Campus.

It is estimated that 38 percent of the US population is eligible to donate, yet only about three percent do. In Palmerton we are working hard to increase that percentage.

Our goal is to collect 65 units at our January drive, that could save 195 lives! Your generous blood donation will be used to save the life of

someone at one of the 22 local community hospitals including; Lehigh Valley Health Network, St. Luke’s, Sacred Heart Hospital, Grand View Health, Penn State Health St. Joseph, Penn State Hershey, Reading Health System, Blue Mountain Health System, and Hunterdon Healthcare.

In the dead of winter and one of the coldest snaps in recent memory, the Miller Keystone Blood Center in Hanover Township, Northampton County experienced a burst pipe and subsequent flooding which closed the center for the last five days. The location on Valley Center Parkway is the most popular site for donors, according to Michael McShane, senior director of recruitment.

Donations made there account for about a quarter of the donations necessary for area hospitals. This blood drive will help the center replenish their supply and service area hospitals.

Donors must be 16 years of age or older. There is no upper age limit for blood donors. Donors must weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, feel healthy on the day of their donation and provide valid identification.

Consent of parent/guardian is required for 16-year-old donors; additional donor eligibility requirements can be found at GIVEaPINT.org.

To schedule a donation at Palmerton Area Community Blood Drive, contact Alice Wanamaker at 484-274-2080 or AliceW@ CarbonCountyChamber.org appointments can also be scheduled online at giveapint.org and reference sponsor code 1361.

Blue Ridge Communications partners with United Way to “Bundle Up” Kids this Winter

Blue Ridge Communications teamed up with United Way of Monroe County and its partner agency Pocono Services for Families and Children to distribute new coats to Monroe County to help needy children keep warm this winter. During the month of November, Blue Ridge Communications ran a “Bundle Up” special initiative; when customers bundled up services, Blue Ridge donated a new coat to “Bundle Up” a child in need.

It was a collaborative team effort among partners to make this donation a reality. First, coat sizes for the children were gathered and ordered from Burlington Coat Factory.

Following which, coats were delivered and distributed to children at the Mountain Center, Tannersville.

The United Way of Monroe County provides health and human services through community initiatives and funding to more than 30 local health and human service programs. Our mission is to build partnerships that improve lives and provide solutions to those facing life’s challenges.

The Jim Thorpe Current

D&L Trail Friendly

Business Spotlight

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

January 2019 • 7

Canal Side Guest House and Bicycle Tours

By Kelly Prentice D & L National Heritage Corridor

T

he Canal Side Guest House and Bicycle Tours in Weissport hosts repeat customers who return year after year. We wondered what keeps them coming back – the cozy rooms in the main guest house building, the gracious hosts, or the great restaurants close by? Could it be the mountain scenery?

Owners Jen and Rod said for most guests it’s the instant access the D&L Trail at mile marker 102, the Weissport Trailhead, plus the rushing Lehigh River just on the other side of the trail, where people enjoy rafting, kayaking, tubing, and fishing.

More recreation opportunities are just a short drive or bike ride away from this Trail Friendly Business in state and county parks including Beltzville, Mauch Chunk Lake, and Hickory Run State Park, state game lands near Jim Thorpe, and other fun stops along the D&L Trail. So, it makes sense that cyclists and whitewater enthusiasts flock here during spring, summer, and fall.

Another bonus–Rod and Jen are both avid cyclists, happy to help you choose your best route. Rod has a full bicycle shop on the premises where guests find everything from wrenches to tire pumps and patches. If you are in need of bike rentals, Lehighton Outdoor Center is just a few miles away, where there’s personalized service. For water enthusiasts, Pocono Whitewater has a downtown store where they do shuttles up to Glen Summit, and Whitewater Rafting Adventures is another option.

The main guest house is a brick building built in the 1820s that Rod has been busy restoring, complete with metal roofing and new paint, since the couple bought the property in 1998. The bunkhouse is a separate building designed for bigger groups to use, such as scout troops and hiking clubs.

“My husband always has a vision for things,” says Jen. “This was his vision. There was a lot of work to get this guest house into order, but my husband and I work together well as a team.”

As a music teacher, Jen has added her own touches. In the main living space is a music room where guests can relax and play the piano or guitar. Jen and Rod have also been known to help a through-hiker along the Appalachian Trail now and then, bringing them back to the guest house to do laundry or get a good night’s sleep. If you are considering a stay, you’ll want to call in advance to make a reservation.

Canal Side Guest House and Bicycle Tours 103 Canal St. • Lehighton, PA Reservations: 484-629-9736 • www.canalside.org

GO • SEE • DO JIM THORPE

Greetings Jim Thorpe . . . Welcome to Your Community Newspaper!

Prepare for Cold Weather to Avoid Frozen Pipes

W

ith forecasted below-freezing temperatures coming soon, Pennsylvania American Water today urged homeowners to act now to prevent frozen and damaged household pipes.

“Although Pennsylvania winters are difficult to predict, we can be sure that cold weather is coming and we need to prepare our homes and protect areas susceptible to freezing,” said Pennsylvania American Water Vice President of Operations Jimmy Sheridan.

“Preparing now can save the aggravation and cost of dealing with frozen pipes and the damage they might cause.”

Property owners are responsible for maintenance of the water service line from the curb to the house, as well as any in-home piping.

Pennsylvania American Water encourages residents to take the following precautions to reduce the risk of freezing and bursting pipes: To prepare now: • Familiarize yourself with areas of your home most susceptible to freezing, such as basements, crawl spaces, unheated rooms and outside walls.

• Eliminate sources of cold air near water lines by repairing broken windows, insulating walls, closing off crawl spaces and eliminating drafts near doors.

• Locate your main water shut-off valve.

If a pipe freezes or bursts, shut the water off immediately.

• Protect your pipes and water meter. Wrap exposed pipes with insulation or use electrical heat tracing wire; newspaper or fabric might also work. For outside meters, keep the lid to the meter pit closed tightly and let any snow that falls cover it. Snow acts as insulation, so don’t disturb it.

When temperatures are consistently at or below freezing: • If you have pipes that are vulnerable to freezing, allow a small trickle of water to run overnight to keep pipes from freezing. The cost of the extra water is low compared to the cost to repair a broken pipe.

• Open cabinet doors to expose pipes to warmer room temperatures to help keep them from freezing.

If your pipes freeze: • Shut off the water immediately. Don’t attempt to thaw frozen pipes unless the water is shut off. Freezing can often cause unseen cracks in pipes or joints.

• Apply heat to the frozen pipe by warming the air around it, or by applying heat directly to a pipe. You can use a hair dryer, space heater or hot water. Be sure not to leave space heaters unattended.

• Do not use kerosene heaters or open flames to thaw pipes inside your home.

• Once the pipes have thawed, turn the water back on slowly and check for cracks and leaks.

Jim ThorpeWoman Competing for Ms. Wheelchair PA

A

woman from Carbon County, who spent years searching for her purpose in life, has found a way to help people with disabilities.

Danielle DeAngelis is competing in the Ms. Wheelchair Pennsylvania competition.

Organizers expressed that it’s not your typical beauty pageant. The goal is to advocate for people with disabilities.

The 27-year-old from Jim Thorpe was paralyzed in a car crash seven years ago. DeAngelis said her positive attitude helped get her behind the wheel again.

Win or lose, she’s spreading hope and inspiring women of all abilities to live life to the fullest.

“I would love to see more businesses be accessible,” said DeAngelis.

The Ms. Wheelchair Pennsylvania competition is taking place in Erie on January 5th.

Maddie Conway of Dunmore is also competing for the crown. (pahomepage.com)

The Jim Thorpe Current is a monthly, full color, community newspaper celebrating the amazing Pocono Mountains area surrounding Jim Thorpe.

The Jim Thorpe Current features local stories and people profiles, bringing you news of what’s going on in the Jim Thorpe area, where to go, what to do, who to see, where to stay, where to play, what to eat and drink, and news of festivals, events and more.

Our goal is to be Jim Thorpe’s “bulletin board” for those seeking to inform and tell their story to our visitor, vacation home, and local area populations.

FIND NEW CUSTOMERS • REACH LOCALS AND VISITORS

ADVERTISERS

You’ll love our simple, efficient, and highly effective media solution to reaching our enthusiastic readers.

DELIVERY LOCATIONS

We spotlight those places that tourists, visitors, and even locals love to visit and explore. You’ll find us at Jim Thorpe area hotels, inns and B&B’s. At visitor centers, the chamber of commerce, libraries, restaurants, retailers, real estate offices, coffee shops, ski lodges, golf courses, wineries and more.

Jimthorpemassage.com

EARLY BIRD ADVERTISERS - Take advantage of our FULL–COLOR • LOW COST RATES

Full Page = $495

1/2 Page = $295

1/4 Page = $195

1/8 Page = $125

Contact us now at ADS@JimThorpeCurrent.com to get your ad message into our EXCITING NEXT ISSUE! We look forward to having you as a partner, as a distribution location, news source, advertiser, or just as an enthusiastic supporter.

Visit Us At JimThorpeCurrent.com or Call 570-399-1400 Today!

Remedy for Winter

8 • January 2019

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

bon appétit Tips to Embrace a Keto-Friendly Diet

The Jim Thorpe Current

5 TIPS TO JUMPSTART YOUR COMPOST

T

he great thing about composting is that you can throw a bunch of leaf clippings, food scraps, and dried leaves into a pile and they will decompose into crumbly, nutrient-rich compost for your garden. Depending on the size of your compost pile, what you put in it, and how you tend to it, this process can take three months to two years.

If you want to get compost in a hurry, there are a few things you can do to speed the process along.

1. Size it right Compost piles that are about 1 cubic yard (3 ft square by 3 ft high) get hotter quicker.

(Up to 140 degrees F!) Heat is a by-product of rapid microbial action and a sure sign that the microbes are working at top speed to break down the materials. Smaller piles and larger piles don’t heat up as quickly.

2. Turn it over Microbes need oxygen to do their work.

Turning the materials in your pile once a week will add the needed air. If you can’t—or don’t want to—turn the pile, try aerating it by poking around in the pile with a pitchfork.

3. Keep the combo right For rapid decomposition, your compost pile should have a carbon to nitrogen ratio of about 20:1. Carbon-rich materials include corn stalks, straw, dry leaves, sawdust, and shredded paper. Nitrogen-rich materials include kitchen scraps, fresh prunings from your garden, alfalfa hay, grass clippings and seaweed. You can boost a compost pile with Super Hot, an organic activator make of nitrogen and hungry microorganisms.

Note: In years past, many experts have recommended adding manure—which is nitrogen-rich—to your compost bin to speed up the microbial activity. New strains of bacteria have caused concerns, however, and some people are backing away from that suggestion.

Alfalfa meal and soybean meal are high-nitrogen alternatives and are available at many feed stores.

RECIPE

Purple Green Juice Bar & Cafe This dairy and meat free soup is easy to make and so delicious and cozy! You’ll want to snuggle up on the couch and swirl yourself in a big blanket on a cold winter’s day. Add a nice mug of something hot to drink and you have yourself a perfect warm-up!

Gingery Carrot Butternut Squash Soup Ingredients: • 1/2 onion [red or white] • 1 whole Butternut Squash cut into 2-inch pieces • 6 carrots- cut into 2-inch pieces • 5 cups vegetable stock • 5 cloves fresh garlic - minced • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger - grated • 1 tablespoons turmeric • 1/2 teaspoon paprika • 1-2 tablespoons olive (or try coconut oil for a great flavor!)

• sea salt • fresh cracked pepper

4. Keep it moist Water is another key component in making compost, but you don’t need too much. Your compost pile should be moist like a damp sponge, not soggy or waterlogged.

5. Shred it It’s no surprise that smaller materials break down faster. You can help your compost along by shredding fallen leaves with your lawnmower or leaf shredder and chopping up your kitchen scraps. Some avid gardeners even recommend putting kitchen scraps through the blender, which gives you the added benefit of moisture when adding the scraps to your compost pile.

I

t seems that everyone these days has a friend following a “keto-friendly” diet -- a low-carb eating plan designed to make the body burn fat more efficiently.

Developed years ago to control diabetes and then later to treat epilepsy in children, different versions of the keto diet have gained traction as effective weight loss plans, according to The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

“One thing all keto diets have in common is that they restrict carbohydrates in favor of healthy fats in an effort to achieve nutritional ketosis -- the state in which your body burns fat instead of glucose,” explains registered dietitian, Courtney McCormick.

The experts at the South Beach Diet are now taking a safe, effective approach to keto by offering a keto-friendly plan, and are providing helpful tips to get started.

1. Count net carbs: A keto-friendly diet is based around the idea of net carbs.

Limit yourself to no more than 50 grams of net carbs daily. While this isn’t considered a strict keto diet, it follows the keto plan for those looking for assistance with getting started. To calculate this number, take your total grams of fiber and grams of sugar alcohols consumed and subtract that from your total grams of carbohydrates.

The resulting number should be within the 40 to 50 net carb range.

2. No beans, legumes or fruits: To keep your overall daily net carbs within a certain range, even good carbs like beans, legumes and those in most fruits are offlimits except for occasional indulgences.

Stick to non-starchy veggies only, like

leafy greens, cauliflower, broccoli, mushrooms and zucchini.

3. Water is essential: Your fiber intake is reduced on a keto-friendly diet with the elimination of whole grains, beans and legumes. For digestive health and to ward off constipation, it’s important that you drink sufficient amounts of water.

“We recommend drinking at least 64 ounces per day on the South Beach Diet Keto-Friendly plan,” says McCormick.

“Plus, water keeps you fuller longer, prevents overeating before meals and may boost metabolism if it’s ice cold.”

4. Variety is key: Following a keto diet could put you at risk for deficiencies in micronutrients, including selenium, magnesium, phosphorus and vitamins B and C. To compensate, take a multivitamin and stay away from eating the exact same thing each day. Mix it up with an array of lean proteins, healthy fats and a daily serving of non-starchy veggies. Pay attention to changes in your health like hair loss, vision changes, aches, pains or weakness. Simple blood tests can reveal levels of vitamins and minerals.

5. Plan special occasions: Carbs are king at special meals and holidays.

Communicating your needs with family and friends beforehand can help you avoid peer pressure and garner support for your efforts. Offer to bring a ketofriendly dish so you’ll be sure to have something to eat.

When following a keto or keto-friendly eating plan, do so in the safest, healthiest way possible. Consult your doctor and consider following a plan supported by trusted weight loss and healthy lifestyle experts. (StatePoint)

• Sauté the onion in the olive or coconut oil for 4-5 minutes.

• Add the grated ginger and garlic, and sauté another 2 minutes.

• Add the turmeric and paprika, and a little salt and pepper - and stir for 30 seconds to let the spices warm up.

• Then add the butternut squash, carrots and vegetable stock - and bring to a boil.

• Once boiling, turn down to a simmer, cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables pierce easily with a fork.

Now it’s time to blend! Remove from heat.

Using an immersion blender (or transfer in small batches to a traditional blender), purée until smooth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste . . . or even a little maple syrup for a touch of sweetness – and then serve!

Makes 4-5 servings. Enjoy!

Purple Green Juice Bar & Cafe 105 Broadway in Jim Thorpe (570) 527-5453

CHILI COOK OFF - from page 1

Each contestant receives a $25 gift certificate to the winery as well. Past winners have been home chefs, Brian Eagers of Emmaus, Tripti Stashefski of Lehighton and Todd Keller of Kutztown. Professional chefs who have won were Cheryl Leone of Mama C’s Bakery in New Ringgold and Joe Sweeney and Jake Snyder who is now the executive chef at Notch Eight Crafthouse in Jim Thorpe. The rules are simple; the chili just needs to contain a Galen Glen wine in the recipe. Chili can be beef, turkey, venison, vegetarian and even vegan.

If you are interested in competing

for the championship title and prizes, call the winery at 570-386-3682 or email gruveegruner@galenglen.com for an entry form. You can also stop by the vineyard, 255 Winter Mountain Road, Andreas, PA 18211 during normal business hours to learn more.

The winery invites everyone to attend on Saturday, January 19 between noon and 3pm. In the event of a major snow event, the cook off will take place on Saturday, January 26. Watch Galen Glen Winery’s Facebook page or website, www.galenglen. com for details. Plan to visit and meet new friends while raising some winter fun.

The Jim Thorpe Current

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

January 2019 • 9

À Votre Santé: To Your Heath Food & Drink

By Aillinn Brennan Special to The Current

JIM THORPE

A

lcohol and medicine have a long relationship. Magicians and priests were the first doctors and used wine for healing and religious purposes. Receipts for wine based medicines were found on papyri in Ancient Egypt. There are references to wine as medicine as far back as 2,200 BC in Sumer, making wine the worlds oldest documented medicine!

Hippocrates, during the 5th century BC recommended wine as a medicine, and as part of a healthy diet. Galen, the 2nd century AD Greek physician to Roman gladiators, identified the antiseptic properties of wine. He discovered that wine was effective for disinfecting wounds.

And in severe wounds of the abdomen, he soaked exposed abdominal contents in wine before retuning them to the abdominal cavity!

In the 1830’s Philadelphia was home to two great medical colleges, the University of Pennsylvania, and Jefferson Medical College.

Surgical lectures were the learning tool of the day. As such, the surgery would first be spelled out to the audience, while the patient would anxiously listen. After the outline was presented, patient was given wine to drink with hopes it would ease the pain. At this time there was no anesthesia.

One of the hallmarks of great surgeons, during this period, was their ability to work quickly with their saws, knives and various implements with the hope the patient would not go into shock from the excruciating pain, and

RECIPE Gluten-Free Quinoa Pancakes Ingredients: • 1 cup quinoa flour • 1 cup quinoa flakes • 1½ cups almond milk • 2 eggs, lightly whisked • 1 tsp LSA (flaxseeds, sunflower seeds and almonds) • 1 banana, mashed • 2 tbsp honey, plus extra to serve • Pinch of ground cinnamon • Butter or coconut oil, for frying • Fresh fruit, to serve

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

blood loss. The surgeon would give the wine and command, “stay still!” and the procedure would begin.

Paris was world renowned for its medical advances and innovations during this period and its hospital system had massive wine vaults for its patients.

In the 1,463 page volume, Domestic Medical Practice from 1918 there are instructions on using wine, especially Sherry, in the creation of medicinal tinctures, having the added benefit of tasting good. In the chapter on “Hygiene, Food and Air,” alcohol as not a “necessity to a person” but should be looked upon as a medicine.

In what would have been a pre-prohibition atmosphere, the book cautions that if alcohol were looked upon as a drug, “the world would

By Leah Itsines • FoodMatters.com

Aillinn Brennan is proprietor of The Marion Hose Bar located at 16 W. Broadway in Jim Thorpe.

For more visit www.marionhosebar.com

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

FLAVOR A CASUAL AND RELAXED PLACE TO HAVE FUN

Jeffri’s Cider Sazerac While we are certainly not a bar nor pub, we have been known to enjoy a cocktail now and then with friends. One of our very favorites is this decidedly refreshing twist on the classic Sazerac cocktail. There is a huge difference in the richness of this drink — like all — based on the quality of the ingredients, and as we have great fresh pressed ciders here, it just elevates the finished product!

Warning: These go down quite easy….

Method: 1. Place the flour, quinoa flakes, milk, eggs, LSA, banana, honey and cinnamon in a bowl and mix well.

2. Melt the butter or coconut oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Pour in about ½ cup of batter and tilt the pan so the batter spreads to form a disc. Cook for 3 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface of the pancake. Turn and cook for a further 2 minutes, or until golden on the underside.

Remove and place on a warm plate. Repeat with the remaining batter until you have eight pancakes in total. Once all your pancakes are cooked, serve them with your choice of fruit and a drizzle of honey.

be better off.” The medical application of beer was to aid digestion. And could replace food if there was scarcity. The book also cautions “so called French and German wines are mostly adulterated and doctored” and are “very injurious.”

Today, there is considerable information and research about the health benefits of alcohol.

Since the 1990’s there has been a lot of research done on modest drinking and mortality.

The research is showing that the modest drinkers live longer than the heavy drinkers, and the nondrinkers! So, have a happy healthy new year, and a glass of wine!

Water (570) 325-2631

Sing Along Nights Drink Specials 1980’S Retro Games and Videos

The Mix: • 1 sugar cube • 6 dashes Peychaud’s bitters • 2 ounces Rye, (Bulleit is a favorite) • 1 ounce Absinthe • 4 ounces Fresh Apple Cider (or less if desired) — Graver’s and Heckman’s are both excellent!

• Ice • Lemon peel The Plan: In a mixing glass, saturate the sugar cube with the bitters and the Absinthe, muddle to break down the sugar cube.

Add ice and rye. Top off with cider. Stir, toss in the lemon peel and enjoy!

The Parsonage Bed and Breakfast 61 West Broadway, Jim Thorpe theparsonagebandb.com

43 Broadway • Jim Thorpe, PA

Backtothe80sbar.com • www.facebook.com.BackToThe80sBar

10 • January 2019

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

The Best Tween and Teen Books of 2018

arts artist spotlight

ron chupp

By Yvonne Wright • Studio YNW The Current Contributing Writer

T

he abundance of picturesque architecture perched on the hills of Jim Thorpe, and enhanced by the richness of nature that wraps itself most generously around the town like an extravagant blanket of texture and color, regardless of the passing seasons, has inspired many visual artists to call Jim Thorpe their home.

Originally from Indiana, Ron Chupp of the Black Diamond Gallery, fell under the spell of this town’s atmospheric backdrop in the early 2000s, when he began capturing the fast flowing streams, cascading waterfalls and majestic old trees in a variety of mediums and with a passion of the newly-converted. Soon, the gallery’s walls on 31 West Broadway filled with a plethora of ink drawings, pastel sketches, watercolors and oils on canvas.

However, Ron’s particular medium of choice, and a technique the majority of his recent works are executed in, is lithography - a traditional printmaking technique revered by many fine art artists, that is as aesthetically pleasing as it is difficult to master.

Lithography is a laborious technique introduced in Germany in 1796. A grease-pencil drawing created on a limestone tablet is later treated with a mixture of acid and acacia gum to etch the grease content of the image into the stone’s surface. Afterwords, the stone is washed, inked and pressed onto a sheet of paper to produce a lithographic print. Once a hand-pulled edition of the drawing is completed, the stone is cleaned and reused.

The Mauch Chunk Creek lithograph, hand-pulled by Ron Chupp off a Bavarian limestone block and printed on paper is the artist’s favorite work, because it depicts an area of the forest along the Switchback trail that he enjoys visiting, and where encounters with nature are most inspiring and nurturing to his creativity. Mauch Chunk Creek is a superb rendition of pencil strokes interwoven into a tapestry of black and white textures and grey tones best described as a mastery of lithographic articulation. The sensitivity of observation eloquently narrates the landscape’s depth of field, density of forestry and the subtleties of light piercing through the tree branches, while reflecting gently in the shimmering creek and the mossy rocks. One can almost feel summer breezes permeating the composition.

Ron is undeniably a skilled printmaker, capable of creating vibrant compositions by transferring onto the stone the most intuitive observations of nature, while at the same time perfectly controlling the lithographic process. “Lithograph is a medium that seems to lend itself to land-and-cityscapes” affirms the artist, “When I run across something that catches my eye, I can transform it later into art.”

The artist’s subject matter comes from the world that surrounds him. Trained at the Indiana University at South Bend, Ron oscillates between realism and non-representational genre, often privileging postexpressionist abstraction. Artist who inspire him most are: Vincent van Gogh, Edward Hopper, René Magritte, Salvador Dali, Grant Wood, Thomas Hart Benton and Maurits Cornelis Escher. Hinting at subtle ideas and clues incorporated into his compositions, Ron challenges his audience to be keen, analytical observers and encourages closer examinations of his works: “the closer you look the more you see, like nature itself. “ Represented by various art galleries in Indiana, Michigan and Pennsylvania, Ron Chupp has also successfully participated in many juried art exhibitions. To highlight but a few: The International Children’s Games in Cleveland, OH - part of the Olympic Village event during which President G.W. Busch visited, and Little Richard performed (2004); The Krasel Art Fair on the Bluff in St. Joseph, MI (2007); The Art In Bartlett in Bartlett, IL and the Art For the Mind in South Bend, IN (2008).

The artist’s numerous lithographs and pastel works have been awarded prestigious prizes: the Purchase Award at the Northern Indiana Regional Competition, held at the Museum of American Art in Elkhart, IN (2008); First Prize at the Park Full of Art in Griffith, IN (2006); Best of Show at the Art In Bartlett, in Bartlett IL (2006); First Prize at the Tinley Park Art Fair in Tinley Park, IL (2004); Best of Show at the 22nd Annual Carbon County Art Show, held at the Anita Shapolsky Art Foundation in Jim Thorpe, PA (2002). After winning the prestigious Dean’s Purchase Award in 1993, one of Ron’s silkscreen works has become part of the Indiana University at South Bend’s permanent art collection.

One can contact the artist at chewpea-art@peoplepc.com

By Regan McMahon, Common Sense Media

F

rom fantasy and sci-fi, romance, and historical novels to biographies, mysteries, and thrillers, the year’s best books explore both everyday personal issues — loss, grief, friendship drama, school, and family life — and timely topics like war, racism, and religious prejudice. Check out these picks for fiction and nonfiction, from middle-grade chapter books to edgy young adult novels, to find great reads for tweens and teens.

“The Parker Inheritance,” by Varian Johnson (8+). Present-day kids investigate a town tragedy dating back to the Jim Crow South of the 1950s in this fast-paced mystery with wonderful characters.

“The Journey of Little Charlie,” by Christopher Paul Curtis (9+). This masterful historical novel by the Newbery Medal-winning author of Bud, Not Buddy is narrated by a poor, white 12-year-old South Carolina sharecropper in 1858 who’s coerced into helping a brutal slave catcher. The vivid story offers hope for both individual and societal change.

“The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge,” by M.T. Andersen (10+). An annoying, snooty little elf is sent on a risky peace mission to the kingdom of the goblins in a captivating fantasy filled with comically creepy violence, grotesque illustrations, an unlikely friendship, and clever takes on war and cultural misunderstandings.

“The Book of Boy,” by Catherine Gilbert Murdock (10+). This historical fantasy follows the journey of a hunchback and a pilgrim through medieval France and Italy to collect mystical treasures. It’s a beautifully crafted tale that deals with religious themes and prejudices of that time.

“The Faithful Spy: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Plot to Kill Hitler,” by John Hendrix (10+).

This gripping, vivid graphic novel tells the true story of a German Lutheran pastor and theologian who joined an assassination plot against Hitler after wrestling with the question of his duty to God vs. country. It’s also a great fact-packed resource for kids studying World War II. “Harbor Me,” by Jacqueline Woodson (10+).

Six students from diverse backgrounds are given space at school to share their stories and open up to one another as they discuss their lives touched by immigration and class issues, police brutality, driving under the influence, parent death and more.

“Louisiana’s Way Home,” by Kate DiCamillo (10+). This harrowing tale of abandonment and family curses in a Southern small town in the ’70s is offset by determination, music, joy, kind strangers, and irresistible 12-year-old narrator Louisiana, a character introduced in DiCamillo’s Raymie “Nightingale.”

“Rad Girls Can: Stories of Bold, Brave, and Brilliant Young Women,” by Kate Schatz (10+).

These profiles of 49 girls and groups around the world who achieved great things before the age of 20 offer inspiration to young readers to change the world for the better.

“Dry,” by Neal Schusterman and Jarrod Schusterman (12+). This gripping, suspenseful disaster novel vividly shows the perils of climate change as complex and surprising characters fight to survive in a Southern California that’s suddenly run out of water.

“Children of Blood and Bone: Legacy of Orisha, Book 1,” by Michael Berry (13+). In an action-packed fantasy set in an alternate version of West Africa, strong female characters fight to save and keep magic in their kingdom.

“Dread Nation,” by Justina Ireland (13+).

This alternative-history zombie thriller takes place after the U.S. Civil War ends — not with the South’s surrender but when the dead rise up on the battlefields and soldiers on both sides come together to battle the undead.

“The Hazel Wood,” by Melissa Albert (13+).

A teen girl is on a quest to find her grandmother and rescue her mother in a magical world in this witty, suspenseful and insightful contemporary fantasy that uses elements of European fairy tales to tell a gripping supernatural story.

“The Poet X,” by Elizabeth Acevedo (13+).

This stunning, beautiful and uncomfortably realistic coming-of-age novel in verse follows a teen’s struggle to lead her life outside the narrow boxes where society, religion and her mother have decided she belongs.

“A Very Large Expanse of Sea,” by Tahereh Mafi (13+). A Muslim teen girl busts stereotypes in a post-9/11 high school and finds romance in this heartfelt, poignant and bitterly funny novel by the Iranian American author of Whichwood.

The Jim Thorpe Current

M indful M oments

By Shelley Jaye Jim Thorpe Massage & Wellness Studio

mind·ful·ness

(NOUN)

1. the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something.

2. a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.

January Give A Way

H

appy healthy New Years to you! I have made a resolution to take some quiet time for myself each week. That means saying no to some fun invites, volunteering on less committees and delegating things I can.

What is your resolution? It is not too late to make a New Years resolution if you have not already done so. But wait! How do we set up these resolutions for success when the failure rate is so high? Are you willing to think about your resolutions in a different way?

Find a cozy spot to settle in and read on.

Change is challenging! As if you didn’t already know that. If it was easy, everyone would have already succeeded in their goals and what a different world it would be. We can shift our focus on the process. Think about our resolution as attainable steps to change as an infinite number of moments, mindful moments that transform into the results that we desire.

We can grow, improve, change and accomplish our resolutions, one mindful moment at a time. Begin your day with a positive thought incorporating your successful resolution. Make it yours! We can do this.

Please share your resolutions, comments and suggestions through email to me at JimThorpeMassage@gmail.com. Please write “Mindful Moments,” in the subject line. If you would like to make your comment available to be share here let me know in the email.

All responses received in January will be eligible for a drawing for a $15.00 gift certificate at Jim Thorpe Massage & Wellness Studio. This is good for a chair massage or can be used towards any service with me, Shelley.

CONGRATULATIONS TO: Kim S. Kim is the winner for December.

Kim wrote, “Self-care and mindfulness is one of my favorite topics. I’m a counselor at a local agency that provides services to individuals struggling with substance abuse issues and we remind folks in times of stress to “HALT.” “HALT,” is an acronym to check-in with yourself to address the following: Am I hungry? Am I Angry? Am I lonely? Am I Tired? All too often we neglect basic needs of self-care and if we were to just take a moment to breathe, ask ourselves those simple questions and take care of that need, we can reset our whole mind-state.

Much of adult life is chaotic. Often it is boring, routine, filled with petty dayto-day frustrations. I often remind folks to remember that ultimately, we get to sculpt our reality. Perception is a beautiful thing! For example, my morning commute 4 days per week depending on traffic is 50 minutes. If I chose to, I could start my day off complaining - utterly miserable and dreading the day.

I have trained myself to view this as time to mentally prepare for the work day.

I look forward to my morning and evening commute. I listen to music, sit silently, and reflect on what I have to do that day. On my way home, I decompress any stress so that it doesn’t come home with me.

Self-discipline and self-care brings me incredible personal gratification and joy.

Thank you for letting me share.”

Much gratitude! Shelley

The Jim Thorpe Current

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

January 2019 • 11

BUTLER IN THE HOME - continued from page 1

programmer for a company out of Atlanta, Georgia and he worked from home since we moved to Pennsylvania back in 2006. He wanted office space for his job and space for storage when we cam across our current store location. We had extra space available still, so we figured we would open a store. We knew we could not just sell our paper clips so we thought we would sell unique gifts that you can’t find anywhere else in Lehighton.

The Current: Did you have prior experience before branching out on your own? If so, in what positions and where?

Balint: None other than having been running our paper clip business online for four years.

The Current: Do you have any degrees or hold any certifications?

Balint: Robin has a certificate of office automation from the Cittone Institute, and Sean has a bachelor’s degree in accounting from St. John’s University.

The Current: Do you own the building in which your store is in? If it’s leased, for how long?

Balint: We lease the building under a one-year agreement.

The Current: Where does most of your clientele come from?

Balint: We advertise from our Facebook Page, our website (www.butlerinthehome.com), two radio stations (Penn’s Peak Radio, and Magic 105.5), also we advertise with the Times News, which we recently had an article about our business in the paper, which our customers tells us that is how they found out about us. We had a brief news story done on our store by News 13 about how we donate 10 percent of our Jelly Belly jelly bean sales to Carbon County Friends of Animals.

The Current: What are you most excited about how having opened the gift shop in Lehighton?

Balint: The residents of Lehighton are thrilled there is a gift shop back in Lehighton, since Hallmark closed. We love supporting the locals and the locals supporting us.

The Current: How has business been since first opening?

Balint: It has been slow since opening but since the Christmas holiday season began, we are seeing a steady increase in both new customers and repeat customers.

The Current: What initiatives do you implement to market your business and attract customers?

Balint: We offer our customers a VIP program, which is every dollar you spend you get a one point (except on Tuesdays which is double point Tuesday) and with these points you can redeem them for discounts off future purchases. Also we run daily specials: Tuesdays: Double VIP points Wednesdays: BOGO paper clips Thursdays: Free magnet with every $10 purchase Fridays: Free trial size Jelly Belly Jelly Beans with every $10 purchase Saturdays: Free gift with a $25.00 purchase (we rotate what the gift is among several items).

The Current: Were there any challenges that you encountered while going through the process of getting proper permits, licensures, etc.? If so, what were they and how did you overcome them?

Balint: There were no issues at all.

The Current: Where are the sources from where your products come from? Are they locally sourced?

Balint: We have local vendors on consignment, which include: Bee Silky Soap made right here in Lehighton, Chrissy’s Aroma Bliss and Doterra Essential Oils (bath salts, bath bombs, shower salts, shower melts, lotions), Crystal’s Glass Designs (hand-painted wine glasses), Community Creations, LLC (artwork), Ebony Maxwell Dog Treats, Serving Stone Creations, Planters by Dave, and Ronald Glitzer Handmade Wooden Boxes. We also carry Jelly Belly Jelly Beans, Asher’s Chocolates, Primitives by Kathy, Lehighton Indians Memorabilia, Figurines, Collectibles, Keychains, Pillows, Candles, Greeting Cards, Balloons, etc.

The Current: How many employees do you have?

Balint: One part-time employee who is in charge of the paper clips packaging for Amazon.

Robin is the store manager. Sean is in charge of inventory and overall store operations. It is a family-run business.

The Current: Do you expect to bring more people on staff in the future?

Balint: Right now, with the business just getting started, we can handle the day-to-day operations but if we see that it is starting to get busier, we may have to hire an additional employee to handle the store.

The Current: How would you describe the atmosphere at the store?

Balint: We describe it as if you are walking into your own home. You are greeted as soon as you come through our door. We are also there to help you find the perfect gift for your family and friends.

The Current: What are the business hours?

Balint: Sunday and Monday: closed Tuesday: Noon – 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday: 2:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Thursday: Noon – 6:00 p.m.

Friday: Noon – 5:00 p.m.

Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Hours are subject to change with seasonal fluctuations. We are also flexible with our hours. If someone wants to come in at a special time, or if we see customers pull into our lot when we’re closed, but we are both working in the store, we will let customers in.

12 • January 2019

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

The Jim Thorpe Current

music • entertainment FRIDAY, JANUARY 11 INN AT JIM THORPE

WEDNESDAYS, JANUARY 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 BOULDER VIEW TAVERN

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3 INN AT JIM THORPE

Enjoy live music by Gary Dillon tonight at Boulder View Tavern. A solo artist, Gary plays rock n roll classics from the 60’s, 70’s & 80’s.

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM www.boulderviewtavern.com (570) 722-9696

7:00 PM TO 10:00 PM broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343

6:00 PM TO 9:00 PM broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343

FRIDAY, JANUARY 4 THE MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

BOULDER VIEW TAVERN

LIVE MUSIC WITH GARY DILLON

THURSDAYS, JANUARY 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 BOULDER VIEW TAVERN

BROADWAY GRILLE OPEN JAM W/ JOSH FINSEL IN THE UNDERGROUND

FRIDAY, JANUARY 4 BOULDER VIEW TAVERN

LIVE MUSIC W/ TONY ALOSI

FRANK SOLIVAN & DIRTY KITCHEN

LIVE MUSIC WITH STRAWBERRY JAM

LIVE MUSIC W/ A PAIR OF NUTS

Terry Cummings & John Ferrato play your favorite Classic 1960’s and 1970’s rock.

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM www.boulderviewtavern.com (570) 722-9696

With chops so hot, Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen were named IBMA’s 2016 Instrumental Group of the Year for the second time, with a third nomination in 2017. Their critically acclaimed album Cold Spell earned a 2015 GRAMMY nomination for Best Bluegrass Album of the Year, yet the accolades don’t end there.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-4009 Tickets $18

Saxist Vanessa Collier Headlines Mauch Chunk Opera House Jan. 11

LIVE MUSIC @ BROADWAY GRILLE: JOHN QUINN

A Pair of Nuts are acoustic musicians covering a wide variety of popular artists including Elvis Presley, The Rolling Stones, Pearl Jam, Paul Simon, Sublime, The Grateful Dead, Tom Petty.

6:00 PM – 10:00 PM www.boulderviewtavern.com (570) 722-9696 INN AT JIM THORPE

LIVE MUSIC @ BROADWAY GRILLE: STEVE GILLILAND

Tony Alosi has been singing and playing Solo guitar at venues in the Philadelphia Tri State Area since 2000. He performs top 40 and timeless classics in a unique soulful way. Smooth textured powerful vocal tones and fiery fusion guitar permeate his live performances.

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM www.boulderviewtavern.com (570) 722-9696 SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 BOULDER VIEW TAVERN

FRIENDS OF TOM BRANOFF FUNDRAISER A fundraiser for Tom Branoff is being hosted

by Chris Quinn and Chris Burk.

5:00 PM – 10:00 PM www.boulderviewtavern.com (570) 722-9696

6:00 PM TO 9:00 PM broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343

INN AT JIM THORPE

SATURDAY, JANUARY 5 INN AT JIM THORPE

9:00 PM TO 11:59 PM broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343

LIVE MUSIC: BANDANA BROS IN UNDERGROUND 9:00 PM TO 11:59 PM broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343

LIVE MUSIC AT BROADWAY UNDERGROUND: MAGIC STEW

THE MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

SEAMUS EGAN PROJECT

BOULDER VIEW TAVERN

LIVE MUSIC WITH COUNTING STARS A high-powered dance band, playing music from every decade – Rock, Pop, Funk, Disco, newer Country and much much more.

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM www.boulderviewtavern.com (570) 722-9696 THE MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

ENTER THE HAGGIS & SKERRYVORE

In 2017, Seamus Egan, founding member of the seminal band Solas, toured for the first time ever, as The Seamus Egan Project, bringing along friends and musical guests, and introducing fans to both the entirety of his immense and influential catalog of music, as well as new music he’s never recorded or performed live.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-4009 Tickets $23 SUNDAY, JANUARY 13 INN AT JIM THORPE

A Powerhouse Co/Bill with Toronto roots rock band, Enter The Haggis, has proven itself to be a true grassroots success story, and never has this been more evident than with the group’s latest release, The Modest Revolution.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-4009 Tickets $27

LIVE MUSIC @ BROADWAY GRILLE: BRET ALEXANDER

SUNDAY, JANUARY 6 INN AT JIM THORPE

4:00 PM TO 10:00 PM broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343

LIVE MUSIC @ BROADWAY GRILLE: WAYNE THOMPSON 3:00 PM TO 6:00 PM broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343

“There’s a young lady [Vanessa Collier] came onstage with me, I forget where I was, but she’s playing an alto saxophone, and man, she was amazing.”

T

hose are the words of Buddy Guy in a recent issue of American Blues Scene, describing an impromptu performance with Vanessa Collier on the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise.

If you haven’t been fortunate enough to meet Vanessa and witness one of her headturning, fiery, and passionate performances, you should definitely make sure you do. As a master musician and multi-instrumentalist, Vanessa Collier, weaves funk, soul, rock, and blues into every powerful performance and she is downright impressive.

With soulful vocals, searing saxophone, and witty songwriting, Vanessa is blazing a trail, racking up an impressive arsenal of honours, and has already singled herself out as an artist of distinction and one we would all

do well to watch.

Dustin Douglas and the Electric Gentlemen open. The blues-rockers from the Wilkes Barre area lay down impressive electric blues.

It’s not simply the accolades she has accumulated so far, although they’ve been many — three Blues Music Award Nominations (BMAs), a Blues Blast Award nomination, the Jammingest Pro Award bestowed by the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise, First Place for lyrics in the International Songwriting Competition, Best of 2014 Blues Breaker on Dan Aykroyd’s BluesMobile — it’s the fact that she has accumulated all these honours even while her career is still in its infancy.

A 2013 graduate of the prestigious Berklee College of Music, she’s toured nationally and internationally, released two critically acclaimed albums (2014’s “Heart, Soul & Saxophone” and 2017’s “Meeting My Shadow”), and released her highly anticipated third album, “Honey Up,” in July 2018.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 10 INN AT JIM THORPE

WHISKEY DINNER @ BROADWAY GRILLE 7:00 PM TO 10:00 PM

LIVE MUSIC @ BROADWAY GRILLE: BRIAN KIBLER

3:00 PM TO 6:00 PM broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16 INN AT JIM THORPE

JAMESON NIGHT AT THE BROADWAY GRILLE

THURSDAY, JANUARY 17 INN AT JIM THORPE

BROADWAY GRILLE OPEN JAM W/ JOSH FINSEL IN THE UNDERGROUND 7:00 PM TO 10:00 PM broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343 FRIDAY, JANUARY 18 THE MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

DAMN THE TORPEDOES TOM PETTY TRIBUTE

7:00 PM TO 10:00 PM broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343 FRIDAY, JANUARY 11 THE MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

VANESSA COLLIER & SPECIAL GUESTS: DUSTIN DOUGLAS AND THE ELECTRIC GENTLEMEN With soulful vocals, searing saxophone, and witty songwriting, Vanessa is blazing a trail, racking up an impressive arsenal of honours, and has already singled herself out as an artist of distinction and one we would all do well to watch.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-4009 $15

Damn the Torpedoes is the ultimate tribute to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Each member takes pride in playing the extensive Tom Petty catalog while sounding and acting as close to the real thing as possible.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-4009 Tickets $24

The Jim Thorpe Current

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

January 2019 • 13

music • entertainment FRIDAY, JANUARY 18 INN AT JIM THORPE

Music Schedule JACK FROST

Friday, January 4

STRAWBERRY JAM • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM • Frosty Toboggan WMMR DAY OFF THE SLOPES • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM • E-2000 Saturday, January 5

PAIR OF NUTS • 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM • Frosty Toboggan ELEMENT K • Time: 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM • E-2000 Sunday, January 6

BRIAN RODER AND FRIENDS • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM • Frosty Toboggan Saturday, January 12

ZONE DUO • 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM • Frosty Toboggan

LIVE MUSIC @ BROADWAY GRILLE: DUSTIN DREVITCH

FRIDAY, JANUARY 25 THE MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

SMASHED

6:00 PM TO 9:00 PM broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343 SATURDAY, JANUARY 19 BOULDER VIEW TAVERN

LIVE MUSIC FEATURING TIMMY FITZ Timmy Fitz (/Singer Songwriter/Rock/Blues) – Played the Philadelphia/New Jersey/New York circuit in the late 80s and 90’s.

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM www.boulderviewtavern.com (570) 722-9696 THE MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

FLOWERS FOR TACOS

THE BENJAMINS • 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM • E-2000 Sunday, January 13

LEIGHANN & COMPANY • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM • Frosty Toboggan

BOULDER VIEW TAVERN This six-member band with six lead vocalists perform a high-energy exhilarating show and spotlights Fuel’s smash hits along with medleys and mashups of Rock and Pop anthems. Get SMASHED with this Good Time Party Band fueled by songs that will pack the floor!

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-4009 Tickets $20 SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 THE MAUCH CHUNK OPERA HOUSE

Saturday, January 19 - Sunday, January 20

Us And Floyd Tribute Band strives to perform accurate recreations of the timeless music of Pink Floyd. These professional musicians have grown up as avid Floyd fans and incorporate their knowledge of the band and its history into every live show. Their collective appreciation for Floyd is evidenced by the passion and precision of their performances.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-4009 Tickets $25

LIVE MUSIC FEATURING ROB ZONA Enjoy your favorite classic rock songs with Rob Zona at Boulder View Tavern.

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM www.boulderviewtavern.com (570) 722-9696 THURSDAY, JANUARY 31 PENN’S PEAK

GREENSKY BLUEGRASS For more than a decade and a half, the members

US & FLOYD THE PINK FLOYD EXPERIENCE

SUBARU WINTER FEST • 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM • On Snow Saturday, January 19

MOTHER NATURE’S SONS DUO • 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM • Frosty Toboggan ELEVEN ELEVEN • 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM • E-2000 Sunday, January 20

PAIR OF NUTS • 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM • E-2000 TONY ALOSI • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM • Frosty Toboggan Friday, January 25

92.5XTU WITH EVERETTE • 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM • E-2000 Saturday, January 26

KARTUNE • 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM • E-2000 DYNAMIC DUO • 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM • Frosty Toboggan Sunday, January 27

WHO KNOWS DUO • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM • Frosty Toboggan

BIG BOULDER

The addition of Matias as dual lead vocalist with Brandon brings hot new blood and takes Flowers for Taco higher with high energy showmen, soulful engaging vocal performances of the hottest Party Hits of today in a unique nonstop medley/mashup format. Expect “hands in the air,” singalongs, and a full dance floor all night.

Doors open 7:00 PM – Showtime 8:00 PM mcohjt.com (570) 325-4009 Tickets $10 SUNDAY, JANUARY 20 INN AT JIM THORPE

LIVE MUSIC @ BROADWAY GRILLE: REGINA SAYLES

Saturday, January 5

3:00 PM TO 6:00 PM broadwaygrillepub.com (570) 732-4343

Tuesday, January 8

FRIDAY, JANUARY 25 BOULDER VIEW TAVERN

THE ZONE • 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM • T-Bar TUESDAY NIGHT RACES • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM • On Snow Saturday, January 12

of Greensky Bluegrass have created their own version of bluegrass music, mixing the acoustic stomp of a stringband with the rule-breaking spirit of rock & roll. They redefine that sound once again with their sixth album, Shouted, Written Down & Quoted.

Doors open 7:00 PM Showtime 8:00 PM www.pennspeak.com (610) 826-9661 $24

VOYAGE – Ultimate Journey Tribute Band at Penn’s Peak January 18

THE FROST DUO

PAIR OF NUTS • 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM • T-Bar Saturday, January 12 - Sunday, January 13

USASA SLOPESTYLE & RAIL JAM • On Snow Saturday, January 19

LEIGHANN & COMPANY • 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM • T-Bar MIGHTY MITES • 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM • On Snow BRIAN ROADER & FRIENDS • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM • Catina Saturday, January 26

ACOUSTIKATZ • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM • Catina MOTHER NATURE’S SONS DUO • 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM • T-Bar

FRIDAY, JANUARY 18 PENN’S PEAK

VOYAGE – THE ULTIMATE JOURNEY TRIBUTE BAND VOYAGE has been hailed by fans and critics alike as the #1 Journey tribute band in the world, performing Journey’s music with chilling accuracy!

Doors open 7:00 PM Showtime 8:00 PM www.pennspeak.com (610) 826-9661 $20

Chris Gratz(piano/vocals/guitar) and LeahBeth Evans(vocals) Provide you with classic rock contemporary hits, country, jazz and everything in between!

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM www.boulderviewtavern.com (570) 722-9696 PENN’S PEAK

PHIL VASSAR

V

BOULDER VIEW TAVERN

LIVE MUSIC FEATURING AREA 52 AREA 52 is a trio that plays all of your favorite Motown, R&B, and Rock hits from the 60’s all the way to today!

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM www.boulderviewtavern.com (570) 722-9696

Country music hitmaker Phil Vassar is a pianopounding powerhouse on stage who taps into his audiences via social media for song requests throughout his more than 135 shows a year.

Doors open 6:00 PM Showtime 8:00 PM www.pennspeak.com (610) 826-9661 $24

OYAGE has been hailed by fans and critics alike as the #1 JOURNEY tribute band in the world, performing Journey’s music with chilling accuracy! Since 2005, VOYAGE has dominated America with more sold out shows than any other tribute.

Singer Hugo, is an absolute dead ringer for Steve Perry, both visually and vocally. He continues to stun fans with his miraculous resemblance, exact mannerisms and identical voice to Steve. Fans agree that VOYAGE delivers the closest experience to the original Steve Perry fronted lineup.

The band also features world class New York musicians; Robby Hoffman, Greg Smith, Charlie Zeleny and Al Spinelli who along with Hugo have brought the show to critical acclaim through the many sold out shows as well as private and corporate events throughout America.

VOYAGE takes you back to the ‘80’s era when the timeless music of Journey ruled the airwaves. The talent of these five guys together has brought the meaning of TRIBUTE to a whole new level. See it to believe it!

14 • January 2019

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

The Jim Thorpe Current

biz briefs Local Insurance Agents Named To Health Care Marketplace Circle Of Champions Executive Editor/Publisher

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

For Editorial

call: 570.399.1400 e-mail: edit@JimThorpeCurrent.com

Contributing Writers Aillinn Brennan Rachel Camaerei Kathy Henderson Christopher Holland Shelley Jaye Kathy Matson Kelly Prentice Dustin Schoof Yvonne Wright

For Advertising

JD Diaz • 570.399.1400 ads@JimThorpeCurrent.com

Distribution

Info@JimThorpeCurrent.com

Published by

Stony Creek Media, LLC. 3 Lehigh Avenue, #222 Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania 18229 570 . 399 . 1400

The Jim Thorpe Current is published monthly and distributed to over 185 locations throughout the Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvanaia Area.

Entire contents of this publication is copyright 2019 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.

Two insurance agents from Nesquehoningbased ETA Insurance Group (formerly ETA Benefits Group) were recently recognized as members of the 2019 Health Insurance Marketplace Circle of Champions.

Joseph Pilla, ETA’s owner and president, and Ed Titus, Insurance Sales Specialist, earned this distinction by helping 20 or more consumers make plan selections and enroll in Marketplace coverage during the 2019 Open Enrollment period. The Marketplace is an online tool operated by the federal government that allows individuals to shop for health care plans and receive referrals to local agents for further assistance.

“Choosing an individual health insurance plan can be confusing and overwhelming,” Pilla says. “We regularly work with consumers who are looking to choose or change their health care plan and help them select the best coverage for their needs. It’s an honor to be recognized by the Marketplace for this achievement.”

During the annual Open Enrollment period, individuals without employer-based coverage and purchase their own health care can enroll in or make changes to an existing plan. Local agents who specialize in health care are also available to assist with the plan selection and enrollment process. According to information provided by the National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU), over 300,000 people enrolled in a plan on HealthCare.gov, the Marketplace’s official website, during the first three days of this year’s Open Enrollment period.

Carbon County Non-Profit Expo

The Carbon Chamber is excited to announce the first Non-Profit Expo in Carbon County and invites all non-profit groups to participate.

The expo is designed to be an opportunity for non-profit organization’s to share their mission with the community, local businesses and the 2019 Carbon Leadership Class.

The primary goal is to help members of our community understand how they might get involved and support your organization; whether it is as a volunteer, supporter, or a member. This expo will also serve as a time to bring all non-profits together in the county!

The Expo is being hosted at the Franklin Township Fire Co., 2440 Fairyland Road Lehighton PA 18235 on Wednesday, January 9, 2109 from 9:00am until 2:00pm. Entry is fee and the fire company kitchen will be open.

Visitors are encouraged to attend the expo and meet with the different groups from around Carbon County. Any non-profit who wishes to get involved and exhibit may apply online at www.carboncountychamber. org or call 610-379-5000. The snow date is Wednesday, January 16, 2019.

When: Wednesday January 9, 2019 9:00am - 2:00pm - Open to the Public Where: Franklin Township Fire Co. 2440 Fairyland Road, Lehighton

SBA, Lehigh Valley SCORE, Carbon County and Greater Pocono Chambers, to host Financing and Resources Workshop for farmers and manufacturers

jenny –––––––– 760.408.4029 –––––––– jim thorpe

SBA and partners will host a workshop to explain financing programs and resources for farming and manufacturing businesses at the Western Pocono Community Library on Jan. 8th from 9:00am - 11:00am WHO: Shannon Degiglio, Lender Relations Specialist, SBA Eastern Pennsylvania District Jennifer Tilden, Business Opportunity Specialist, SBA Eastern Pennsylvania District Jason Cali, Loan Specialist, USDA Gary Wickham, Regional Director, Northeast SEWN Tracy Damiani, Lehigh Valley SCORE Valerie Case, Executive Vice President of Operations, Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce Marlyn Kissner, Executive Director,

Carbon County Chamber and Economic Development WHAT: Panel presentation focused on providing resource and financing information to manufacturing and farming businesses.

WHEN: Jan. 8 from 9:00am until 11:00am WHERE: Western Pocono Community Library, 131 Pilgrim Way, Brodheadsville, Pa HOW: Register at www.farmersandmanufacturerseventbrite.com Event is FREE to attend.

CHAT

CHAMBER

30th Annual Snow Ball 2019 Unique Auction Items

Are you looking to market your business to over 1,000 potential customers in the Lehigh Valley & Carbon County? Consider donating a unique auction item for the 30th annual Snowball, happening Saturday, February 09, 2019 6:00pm - 11:00pm EST The Chamber’s 30th Annual Snow Ball presented by the Small Business Council and Capital BlueCross, on Saturday, February 9, 2019 at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center (77 Sands Boulevard, Bethlehem, PA 18015).

This is The Chamber’s premier black-tie dinner dance combined with a silent and live auction fundraiser to benefit Main Street Lehigh Valley. Cocktails & hors d’ oeuvres will begin at 6:00pm with dinner being served at 8:00 p.m. Dance the night away with our live DJ from 9:00pm - 11:00pm This sell-out event attracts a stellar audience of about 600 high profile Chamber members and Lehigh Valley community leaders.

The Silent Auction will be presented from 6:00pm - 9:00pm with the Live Auction being held during dinner. In the past 29 years, the SBC is proud to have contributed more than $500,000 to beneficiaries of the Snow Ball Auction.

This year’s Silent Auction benefits: Main Street Lehigh Valley The mission of the Chamber Foundation, Main Street Lehigh Valley is to improve every main street in the Lehigh Valley through targeted investments in façade improvements, streetscape designs, sidewalk beautification and other enhancements to the physical appearance of our local downtowns, business districts and traditional surrounding neighborhoods.

Please contact Alice at alicew@ carboncountychamber.org to arrange your donation pickup!

Carbon County Seeing Good Sellers Real Estate Market

Carbon County is seeing its best real estate market in 20 years. Aggie Shoenberger has been selling real estate in Lehighton for 18 years. She owns Castle Gate Realty on First Street.

“For a first time home buyer, we have someone call and say I want a single and I’m approved up to 125. The answer is you’re not going to get one. You’re gonna get maybe a nice twin,” said Shoenberger. “This was actually the first year Carbon County got under a six month housing inventory.”

Meaning Carbon is a seller’s market.

Median home prices in the area are up 16 percent on average.

“And in some pockets actually more than that,” said Shoenberger.

But why? Justin Porembo, CEO of the Greater Lehigh Valley Realtors attributes low inventory in the Lehigh Valley for making buyers search farther afield.

“The growth we’re seeing in areas like Carbon County and the Slate Belt have run parallel with the inventory challenges we have been seeing. People are peeling back the onion to find ways to get into the valley,” said Porembo.??

Shoenberger says that’s not the only reason.

“We get a lot of people who work in valley but like driving home to the fresh air, the lakes and the mountains,” said Shoenberger.

Regardless, it’s a tough time to buy.

“I’ve got buyers just waiting for a house to come on the market in their price range in the area they want because there’s just nothing to choose from,” said Shoenberger.

Which is also affecting the rental market.

“And its a great rental market because all those people that wanted to buy that are not buying now are looking to rent,” said Shoenberger.

What’s Next For

Carbon County?

By Kathy Henderson Carbon Chamber & Economic Development

L

ooking at our evolution as a society we have gone from hunters and gatherers to an agrarian society to an industrial society and now our latest iteration of technology. What’s next?

Alexander Graham Bell would not recognize the wireless communication technology of today. Nor could Charles Babbage, an English mechanical engineer who originated the concept of a programmable computer in the early 19th century have foretold the power of the internet that we hold in our hands today.

Will we continue on the technology path or is there something out there that we have yet to discover or develop further such as artificial intelligence?

Perhaps it will be colonizing other planets or something that none of us can even fathom.

One thing I do know; Carbon County is on the cusp of some pretty amazing things. The projects that we are working on here at the CCEDC are very exciting and will help to positively transform our county and more importantly create more jobs.

We may think that tourism is always getting the spotlight, but manufacturing in Carbon is very much alive and well. Our Leadership Carbon class had the opportunity to see that in person when we toured three of our local manufacturers: Architectural Polymers in Aquashicola and Sharps Compliance and Hydra-Tech Pumps in Nesquehoning. Architectural Polymers is a local home-grown business started in a garage that has grown into a company that ships its products internationally. It’s the same story for Hydra-Tech; that of a small company started in the founder’s garage that also ships world-wide.

The Main Street and Trail Towns initiatives are also an important component to a robust economy. It may not seem like much to some people, but a lot of ancillary businesses prosper when there are amazing outdoor attractions such as the D&L Trail, the Appalachian Trail or the Lehigh River in the mix. Carbon County offers 4 seasons of outdoor fun and adventure.

Successful economic development means having a good cross representation of many different types of business from tourism to manufacturing to healthcare and hospitality. They all work hand-in-hand to create a healthy and robust economy.

Perhaps there is someone out there that is already working on the next greatest invention that will take us to the next level. One of our projects at CCEDC that I am hopeful will become a reality in 2019 is the creation of an incubator space to assist up-and-coming entrepreneurs to mentor them in being a successful business owner and provide services for them that they may not be able to afford on their own.

Who knows what we can accomplish unless we take that first step and make it happen. I am looking forward to what is next for us in Carbon County.

The Jim Thorpe Current

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

events calendar THURSDAYS • JANUARY 3, 17, 31 BUDDING NATURALIST BOOK CLUB Hosted by Lehigh Gap Nature Center The Budding Naturalist Book Club is an interactive nature club for children ages 4-6! The club meets every other Thursday at 10:00 a.m. to enjoy a nature-themed story-time and educational activity.

Binoculars, butterfly nets, art supplies, and other materials will be provided for the outdoor adventures and crafts that accompany each program. Meeting themes celebrate the natural wonders unique to each month of the year. This club is open to the public.

Please RSVP at the following link: http://bit.ly/Budding_ Naturalist_19. Contact Program Specialists Chad Schwartz or Brian Birchak if you have any questions. 10:00am Lehigh Gap Nature Center at 8844 Paint Mill Road in Slatington FRIDAY • JANUARY 4 THE BEES KNEES The Bees Knees performs live at the East Penn Sporting Club at 61 Club Road in Lehighton. Bring your own dish if desired and you may bring beverages. Join for fun night of dancing and great music! $7.50 cover charge at the door. Doors open 5:00pm 610-377-1106 SATURDAY - SUNDAY • JANUARY 5 - 6 NASTAR RACE SERIES BEGINS AT SHAWNEE MOUNTAIN Offered weekends throughout the season. NASTAR is the largest public grassroots ski race program in the world. This national recreational race series gives every day skiers and snowboarders of all ages the thrill of racing. For complete details and race schedule, visit www.shawneemt.com 570-421-7231 ext. 249.

Time: 9:00am to 5:00pm Shawnee Mountain Ski Area at 401 Hollow Road in East Stroudsburg

TUESDAYS • JANUARY 8, 15, 22, 29 MEDITATION WITH MICHELLE AT THE DIMMICK LIBRARY Start 2019 off right! Michelle Gallagher will be hosting another six-week guided meditation course at Dimmick Memorial Library, 54 Broadway in Jim Thorpe. Free yourself from stress and anxieties this new year! Donations are encouraged for the event.

10% of the total donations will benefit the Clean Water Fund. www.cleanwaterfund.org For more information on Michelle, visit VenusRisingInc.com 5:30pm - 6:30pm SATURDAY • JANUARY 12 BLUEJAY IN WINTER 10:00am The noisy bluejay, with its harsh hawk call imitations, is one of the more colorful members of the corvid or crow family.

Use your watercolor skills to bring these colors to life in this artistic study of a beautiful winter resident. All materials will be provided for a $15 fee, including reference photos. CCEEC feeders will be stocked for the morning, so live jay models may be on hand as well. The two-hour class is led by artist Jean Perry.

Snowdate January 26 • This program is for adults only.

Please call 570-645-8597 to register.

Carbon County Environmental Education Center 151 E. White Bear Drive in Summit Hill www.carboneec.org

MONDAY • JANUARY 7 CAREER PATHWAYS GENERAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT (GED) At Carbon Career & Technical Institute, FREE Secondary Diploma preparation classes are offered in partnership with Lehigh Carbon Community College. Day classes are available at CCTI and evening classes are available in CCTI and Lehighton, PA. Distance Learning Project online allows students the flexibility to prepare without being in a classroom setting. Other support services include student success counseling while attending our classes.

Once ready for testing, participants can take the GED test at our location in Jim Thorpe. Students must attend an orientation, complete a placement test and application for enrollment. Next mandatory orientation is scheduled for CCTI Jim Thorpe, Main Entrance: 3:15 - 6:15 p.m. Orientation/placement testing is scheduled regularly. Pre-registration is required.

Contact 570-325-3682 x 1517.

Please Send Your Calendar Listings To: Calendar@JimThorpeCurrent.com FRIDAY - SUNDAY • JANUARY 25 - 27 LEHIGH VALLEY PET EXPO The Lehigh Valley Pet Expo returns this year with its popular attractions and pet entertainment at the Ag Hall at the Allentown Fairgrounds. The annual Pet Expo is designed to educate and entertain the public about the wonderful world of pets. Featuring per vendors, educational and entertaining performances, special attractions, hands-on petting opportunities, per adoptions and outstanding shopping for pet lovers and their pets. Attendees are allowed to bring well-behaved pets to the expo. Friday night is family night where all children 12 and under are admitted free!

Hours: Friday - 4:00pm - 9:00pm, Saturday - 10:00am - 7:00pm Sunday - 10:00am - 5:00pm Admission is $11 for adults and $5 for children (ages 12 and under). 3 and under are admitted free.

For discount coupons or to purchase discount tickets online go to www.familypetshows.com. For additional information or vendor space call 631-423-0620 or email dennis@familypetshows.com

SATURDAY - SUNDAY • JANUARY 19 - 20 SUBARU WINTER FEST Come celebrate your passion for winter at the 2018 Subaru Winter Fest, at Jack Frost Mountain at Jack Frost Mountain Road in Blakeslee. Come enjoy live music by emerging artists brought to you by Harman Kardon. Relax with your friends and family while enjoying s’mores and craft coffee or jam out to SiriusXM. Participate in daily giveaways and test the latest gear from our friends at Nordica, Lib Tech, Thule, Klean Kanteen and more. Plus, plan to meet adventurous Subaru owners and learn how you can support Avalanche Rescue Dogs. Call it apres, call it hanging out... we’re calling all winter warriors to experience Subaru Winter Fest at Jack Frost before winter calls it quits! Time: 8:00am to 4:00pm 570-443-8425 www.jfbb.com SUNDAY • JANUARY 20 ECLIPSE PARTY 11:00pm The New Year starts off with an astronomically rare event: a total lunar eclipse, visible in the Northeast. Join Dr. Carl Frankel for a brief indoor discussion on the whys and hows of an eclipse, followed by a short walk right outside the door to view this celestial event. Note the program takes place weather permitting, if a minimum of 12 participants pre-register. There is no fee. Hot cocoa will be available for all, and children will enjoy a unique moon craft. Please call 570-645-8597 to register.

Carbon County Environmental Education Center 151 E. White Bear Drive in Summit Hill www.carboneec.org

library calendar

SATURDAY • JANUARY 26 POCONO WINTER BEERFEST - Hosted by: Spin Radio 107.1 The Pocono Winter Beerfest is back for its fourth year at the Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg! Come enjoy the best way to kick off 2019 with an atmosphere that can’t be beat. With over 100 beer selections to enjoy with more food, vendors, and space than ever before, experience the concert-style Beerfest you’ve waited all 2018 for! Tickets include a souvenir tasting glass with a whole bunch of tasty samples! This event is 21 and over.

Time: VIP Ticketholders: noon-4:30; General Admission: 1-4:30pm Price: $35/general admission; $50/VIP Sherman Theater at 524 Main Street in Stroudsburg 570-420-2808 • www.shermantheater.com SATURDAY - SUNDAY • JANUARY 26 - 27 BLUE MOUNTAIN WINTER FEST Get set for snow, festivities and fun! Blue Mountain’s annual Winter Fest takes place at the Summit Lodge, towards the top of PA’s highest vertical. This free event gives you the opportunity to try winter sports you’ve never experienced! Featuring snowsports, live music and fireworks! Winter Fest activities are free and open to the public, but skiing, snowboarding and snowtubing are regular price on Saturday and Sunday. 11:00am FREE! Blue Mountain Resort - Summit Lodge at 1660 Blue Mountain Drive in Palmerton 610-826-7700 www.skibluemt.com

CLICK CLICK PHOTO CLASS

4 Wednesday Evenings • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM *Beginner & novice photographers with (no camera, point & shoot, DSLR cameras) *First class devoted to camera operation *Second class emphasizes shooting modes *Third class “lets just go shoot” *Fourth class review and critique of images

Instructor: Steve Bandura stevebna2@comcast.net Fee: $99/person

The library will be closed on December 31st to January 1st, 2018 in observance of New Year’s Eve/Day. It will reopen on January 2nd at 9 am.

Story-time will be held every Tuesday from 10-11 AM in the library at 54 Broadway in Jim Thorpe. The themes will be Jan 8th –Snowman, Jan 15th – Hat/Mittens, Jan 22nd – Blanket, and Jan 29th – Teddy Bear.

Our Board of Directors meeting is on Tuesday, January 8th at 5:30 PM in Borough Hall in Jim Thorpe.

The Dimmick Book Club will be meeting on Wednesday, January 9th at 7 PM at 54 Broadway in Jim Thorpe.

The Coaltown Crafters will be meeting on Thursday, January 10th at 7 PM at 54 Broadway in Jim Thorpe. All crafters welcome!

Cocktail extraordinaire Tony Bombico is back at the library with his bartending tips on January 16th at 5:30 PM! This time focusing on old-school bourbon drinks! Come out and learn how to make some old favorites!

Our Friends Membership Monthly Meeting is Thursday, January 17th at 10 am in the library at 54 Broadway, Jim Thorpe.

Stop in any time throughout the month of December to view the works of Desha Utsick, local photographer. 20% of the proceeds of the show benefit the library directly.

Check our Facebook page for more up-to-date information!

Dimmick Memorial Library • 54 Broadway in Jim Thorpe • 570-325-2131 • www.dimmicklibrary.org

Carbon County

Art League The League is dedicated to preserving the arts in Carbon County, holding their monthly meetings the second wednesday of each month at the Seventh Moon Wellness Spa at 701 Bridge Street in Lehighton from 6:00 - 8:00pm.

Membership is open to anyone 18 years of age or older. Doors are open to anyone who desires to support the arts. For information contact Carla at cmbinder@ ptd.net or call her at 610-826-8401.

Visit www.carboncountyart.com or email info@carboncountyart.com.

SUNDAY • JANUARY 27 ART SHOW AND LUNCH Sponsored by the Friends of the Palmerton Area Library. 402 Delaware Avenue. View and purchase work by local artists and enjoy a delicious lunch. Tickets are $7.00 each. If you would like to enter art work, call the library at 610-826-3424 for information.

SATURDAY • JANUARY 12 WINTER DANCE FOR FAMILIES GIRLS AND BOYS Join us at the Heritage Center at 1 West Hazard Street in Summit Hill for an evening winter dance for the family. Refreshments, photo booth (bring your camera), rockin’ DJ, dancing - all in a kid-friendly atmosphere, Tickets at the door or call or text Deb at 484-425-0255 or message Cristlyn Mantz. dress up or dress down for this family friendly event. 6:00pm - 8:00pm SATURDAY - SUNDAY • JANUARY 19 - 20 SHERMAN WINTER CRAFTFEST The Sherman Theater is bringing back the Winter Craftfest, now over two days in January! The theater will be entirely flat floored with over 70 craft vendor spaces and FREE admission! See website for details. 11:00am to 4:00pm FREE! Sherman Theater at 524 Main Street in Stroudsburg 570-420-2808 • www.shermantheater.com

January 2019 • 15

WEISSPORT GALLERY 204 Bridge St. in Weissport SUNDAY • JANUARY 27 THE POCONO WINTER WINE, FOOD AND SPIRITS FESTIVAL Designed to introduce attendees to a variety of local wines produced in the heart of the Poconos, as well as select wineries from the Pennsylvania Wine Trail, The Pocono Winter Wine, Food, & Spirits Festival includes complimentary samples of local wine, spirits and fine cuisine, art displays, a variety of wine-related vendors, and free wine-tasting education. The Fest features a selection of delicious sweet and savory bites, prepared by local restaurants, to complement the wines. Throughout the tasting area, there will be vendors with wine-related goods as well as displays by local artists.

12:00pm to 4:30pm 570-420-2808 • www.shermantheater.com Price: $40/person (this event is 21 and over) Sherman Theater at 524 Main Street in Stroudsburg

SUNDAY • JANUARY 27 SKI BIG BEAR WINTER CARNIVAL Come out for some winter fun and shake that cabin fever! Ski Big Bear’s Winter Carnival is a celebration of playing outside during winter months. Skiers and snowboarders will be able to enjoy a lollipop scavenger hunt, a “bear hunt,” corn hole games and ski and snowboard races (waivers available online). The ski patrol will offer complimentary blood pressure checks in the lodge. There will be food specials, music and more. Activities subject to change. Check back closer to Carnival Day for updates. 9:00am Free with lift ticket.

Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain at 192 Karl Hope Blvd. in Lackawaxen 570-226-8585 http://ski-bigbear.com

COMING UP

SATURDAY • FEBRUARY 18 20/20 SKIRMASH PAINTBALL SPECIAL 10:00am - 5:00pm $20 to Play!

Come out and play Skirmish Paintball for $20! That’s right our basic entry fee will be $20 per person! On top of that, every bag of 500 paintballs will also be $20! Don’t miss out on this special!

Skirmish Paintball, 211 N Meckesville Rd in Albrightsville www.skirmish.com

16 • January 2019

www.JimThorpeCurrent.com

The Jim Thorpe Current