As we head into summer, I'd like to remind everyone to patronize your local businesses and remember to invite friends and family to join in on the fun.

There is so much to do in your backyard.Day trips, weekend getaways and "staycations" bring much to offer the short-term traveler seeking fun and adventure.Take a journey on the unique bike and train ride in Jim Thorpe where you will enjoy the beautiful scenery as the train takes you up to White Haven.Once you reach your destination, you will bike back to Jim Thorpe taking it in all again. Take an afternoon and enjoy the aerial course at Blue Mountain Resort taking in the outstanding views from the top of the mountain or try the new Segway tours. End your visit at Slopeside Pub and enjoy a great lunch out on the deck.Visitors will find our unique bed-and-breakfast accommodations and local hotels close to our main highways. As a Carbon County resident, I am so passionate about where I live, work and play and enjoy sharing the fun that you and friends/family can enjoy right in your backyard. I ask you to be the spokesperson for our beautiful county by sharing your passion about where you live … I sure do!• Bike the Delaware & Lehigh Trail• Stroll, shop and eat in downtown Jim Thorpe - Join us for Third Thursdays• Tour the No. 9 Mine in Lansford• Fish along the Lehigh River• Head up to Lake Harmony and enjoy great eateries and outdoor activities on the lake• Join us for the 2017 Spartan Race at Blue Mountain Resort, July 8, 9 and 15.• Enjoy a couple of nights at one of our many cool camp grounds!• Golf at our beautiful courses throughout the County• Check out our amazing whitewater outfitters• Pocono Whitewater• Northeast PA Kayak School/Jim Thorpe River Adventures• Adventure Center at Whitewater Challengers• Whitewater Rafting Adventures• Jim Thorpe AdventuresNeed more ideas? Visit our website at

www.discovercarbonpa.com. Our business listing provides a number of services and special savings listed as "Fun Hot Deals."If you are a local business and want to offer up a special promotion, give us a call.At the Carbon Chamber and Economic Development Corporation, it is our privilege to serve our residents and the business community by continually marketing the great products and services this county has to offer. Special thanks to all of our local businesses for your dedication to the business community and for supporting local residents and visitors.So I challenge you to "Find Your Fun" this summer and every season, spread the word and support your community!Marlyn Kissner is executive vice president for the northern region of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce ~ Carbon Chamber and Economic Development.