During its first monthly meeting for the 2017 business year, Mitch Hanson of Somersault Printing swore in new officers to the Jim Thorpe Tourism Agency in the ping-pong room of the Broadway Inn.

Jennifer Christman took the oath to become the board president during the Wednesday night meeting."I feel very excited and energized to be the new president of the Jim Thorpe Tourism Agency," she said.The agency was founded in 1984, according to the new president. Over the past three decades the board has tackled the issues and concerns of the business community in the Carbon County seat."I have big shoes to fill as I continue the hard work of those before me," Christman said."We have an amazing town and even more amazing members."More than 100 businesses are members of the board according to Christman, "And new members are joining every day. We have strength in numbers."JTTA has worked to organize and market dozens of festivals and events in the borough, drawing crowds of both residents and tourists alike.The biggest project for the top of the year will be Winterfest scheduled for Feb. 18 and 19.Throughout the year the agency will work on the annuals festivals that have grown in popularity over the years by assisting in Jim Thorpe's Earth Day, Jim Thorpe Birthday Celebration weekend, the Fall Foliage Festival and Olde Time Christmas."This year we're thrilled to support the inaugural Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival that will introduce a whole new market to Jim Thorpe," she said.According to the newly appointed head of the board, parking continues to be the biggest challenge in the historic destination.The agency is open to new members."Nonprofit organizations can also become members," Christman said.Members will be listed on the agency's website, "and get to take advantage of membership benefits directly through our website."Christman said the meetings are not just for business owners but for the entire community."The public is always welcome to attend our general meeting," she said.The board meets the third Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m., in the basement of the Broadway Inn at Jim Thorpe.For more information visit site

www.jimthorpe.org.