Christopher M. Ondrus, president of Lansford Alive, spoke about the group’s accomplishments and upcoming plans during the group’s annual Christmas Party held Friday at the Lansford American Legion Post 123.

“Last year, we were not able to do anything because of the virus,” Ondrus said. “But once spring hit, things began to open up, we were able to start doing things for the public. I think we did a pretty good job this year.”

Ondrus thanked the Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corp.

“We’ve been a member of the Carbon Chamber for at least five years, and they’ve been a tremendous help for our organization in whatever they can do to help us. They’re top notch, they do whatever they can to help our municipality as well as other municipalities looking to do anything to revive their community.”

Some of the events from 2021 that Ondrus highlighted include:

• New trash cans painted and placed downtown.

• Window painting in the downtown by Panther Valley students

• Launched a new website

• “Music in the Park” Concerts in Kennedy Park.

• Received a $2,000 matching grant from the Lehigh Valley Main Street Program, for beautification projects.

• Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies at Mr. Buster’s Dog Wash, 127 W. Patterson St.; Construction Clearance, 99 Riley St.; Berryville Holdings at 863 E. Patterson St.; and “Good Enough to Be New” at 50 W. Ridge St.

• The Events Committee held a Magic Show for kids in Kennedy Park.

• Replaced concrete planters around town.

• Eighth annual Fall Fest, with over 50 vendors.

• Held two Moonlight Markets.

• New benches installed in Kennedy Park. The Events Committee raised funds over the years for the new benches.

• Became a member of Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau.

• Christmas in the Park.

• Received a $4,500 grant that will be used for advertising in 2022.

Still on tap for December, a home Christmas decorating contest and on Dec. 18, an event for families at Kennedy Park.

Ondrus also spoke of some events for 2022, which include an Ethnic Festival; “Fridays in Lansford,” which aims to tie in to the Historical Society, No. 9 Mine and Museum, and area restaurants and businesses; and a real estate tour to fill vacant store fronts.

“We’re proud of our accomplishments,” Ondrus said. “We have a great board, and many people that have helped in numerous ways to help bring our downtown back. It’s not easy, but we’re working as hard as we can. We’ve done a great job, and there are more great things to come.”

For more information about Lansford Alive, visit www.lansfordalive.org.