The Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation issued the first check for its New Business Loan Program. The first check for $17,000 was to Brennan Varley and Meraki Hair Studio at 175 Interchange Road, Lehighton. From left, Mark Sverchek, Ron Tirpak, owner Brennan Varley, Marshall Walters and Kathy Henderson, CCEDC director of economic development. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Jokers Are Wild Game Cafe at 125 N. First St., Lehighton, received a loan from the CCEDC for $65,000. From left are Mark Sverchek, Ron Tirpak, Tonia Schaffer, Bob Schaffer, Nora Oswald, Marshall Walters and CCEDC Director of Economic Development Kathy Henderson. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO