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Concourse Club marks a century of service

The Concourse Club of Palmerton can trace its roots all the way back to 1915, when Woodrow Wilson served as our country's president.

A century after its humble beginnings, members of the organization were able to reap the rewards of the club's labor during its 100th anniversary dinner at Blue Mountain Resort.To commemorate the club's anniversary, members were presented with a limited-edition pin that features a likeness of the bandstand in the Palmerton Borough Park.Lisa Snell Kern, club president, then performed a cake cutting. That was followed by a photograph of all attending members, a business meeting, and entertainment.Snell Kern then recognized past presidents of the club, who were asked to stand and be recognized."We thank you for your service," Snell Kern said. "Without it, we would be floundering; we are who we are because of you."As part of the celebration, the club also honored members with 50 or more years of consecutive membership.They include Emily Bradbury (member since 1964), Honey Cyr (1960), Jean Fritzinger (1961), Marianne Smelas (1965), and Janet Snyder (1965).Additionally, longtime member Perma Snyder (1956) was honored posthumously for her service.Snell Kern said those women were the "backbone" of the organization.She also discussed the inaugural Movie in the Park, to be held June 20 in the borough park.The movie will be displayed on a giant inflatable screen. Moviegoers should be sure to bring a blanket or their preferred chair, snacks and drinks. All regular park rules, such as no alcohol, pets or smoking, will apply.The Movie in the Park will allow the club, known especially for its improvements to the borough park, the opportunity to take advantage of those improvements and expand its awareness among the public.Since 1989, club-led improvements to the borough park total $255,124. Past projects include the renovation of the bandstand and its landscaping, benches and pathways; adding vintage lights, a security camera and tree plantings; and the annual Summer Concerts in the Park.The Concourse Club of Palmerton has served the Palmerton area since 1915. The organization is made up of women who are dedicated to public service.The club meets from October through May on the first Thursday of the month.

TERRY AHNER/TIMES NEWS Concourse Club of Palmerton members with 50 or more years of consecutive membership include, from left, Marianne Smelas (1965), Honey Cyr (1960), Janet Snyder (1965), Emily Bradbury (1964), and Jean Fritzinger (1961). Longtime member Perma Snyder (1956) was honored posthumously for her service.