Community spirit is alive and well in Palmerton. Famed local artist Mary Kocher turned 100 years old on April 19, and the residents signed a card designed for the occasion.

One of the last paintings Mary created, a collage of Palmerton Buildings, was featured on the center panel of the card. The painting hangs at the Palmerton branch of the First Northern bank and photo credit goes to local photographer Lynn Shupp. The card was made available in the bandstand of the Borough Park on three occasions, and organizers reached their goal of obtaining over 100 signatures.

Many of those who signed were friends or neighbors of Mary’s, some were former students, and some just fans of her artwork. What they all have in common is an appreciation for Mary’s talent and a familiarity with her work, as it hangs prominently throughout the town: in the Palmerton Area Library, The Heritage Center, banks and local businesses.