Take a good look around. Carbon County and our surrounding areas have amazing things to offer. Have you explored, discovered and supported your area?

To start, take pride in your community and speak about it often and in a positive manner.When the opportunity surfaces and you have the chance to speak about your hometown, do so with excitement and pride. Take the time to volunteer for your community in some way, even if it's only an hour you can give.We have a number of nonprofit organizations in the area helping many local initiatives, explore your way to discovering an organization that peaks your passion, then give your support.When you walk outside, look up at the trees and remind yourself that you live in a beautiful area with stunning backdrops filled with outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the seasons.Whether it is biking, hiking, skiing, rafting, kayaking, hunting or fishing, just to name a few, enjoy the many activities we have to offer and spread the word to family and friends.If outdoor activities aren't your thing, take in the arts and culture in the area. Visit all of our small towns and explore what each has to offer.The Number 9 Mine in Lansford, the Harry Packer Mansion and Old Jail Museum in Jim Thorpe, Historical Society in Palmerton or the Butterfly Sanctuary as you head to Albrightsville.Want to explore the talent of our local artists? Stop by the CCEDC office in Lehighton and enjoy original pieces displayed on every wall, purchase a piece you love.Hungry or thirsty? Enjoy a trip to a local winery like Galen Glen or Carbon's local brew pub, Castle Grill, for a wonderful tasting experience."I love living and working in the Carbon county area because it's a fantastic location. We have beautiful scenery, indoor and outdoor activities in every season, shopping and restaurants. Of course we have great beverages too, there's a microbrewery/distillery and wineries. I'm honored to work in the area for an internationally known wine grower and winemaker. My 16-mile drive is full of beautiful scenery and the view from my work window is like no other. I'd invite anyone who hasn't been, to come and take in the view from my work window," says Kathy Matson, tasting room manager Galen Glen Winery.The talent that lies in our area is quite impressive when you take the time to explore. Patronize the many restaurants in our area that includes outstanding bar food to upscale cuisine. Explore, discover and support our local restaurants and next time you eat out, thank the owner for setting up shop in our area.Let's not forget to shop local. You've heard this time and time again as we promote our small local businesses in the area. If you need a gift or something for yourself, think local, think small business.Once again, explore and discover all that we have to offer to cover your shopping and service needs … and then support our local businesses to help strengthen and sustain the industry in our area.As we head into 2016, I challenge you to explore and discover five new things in our area; give your support and pass along your experience. As you do, please visit our Facebook page @discovercarbonpa and share your experiences with us.In closing, I'd like to thank all of our business owners, local residents and public officials for making our area a great place to live, work and play. It is an absolute honor to serve you.Happy New Year!Regards,Marlyn Kissner, CCEDC