Hello, neighbors! I am so excited to officially introduce myself as your new local publisher, both for the Mt. Carmel - Schuylkill - Pottsville site and the North Poconos - Hazleton site. My family and I live right in the area, and as a homeschooling mom to two active boys, I know exactly how much work it can be to find local activities for the whole family (and good luck if you don't have Facebook to hunt down events around here). My goal is to turn this site into your ultimate go-to resource for family-friendly happenings, businesses, and activities in our neck of the woods. Whether you are looking for a weekend festival, a new park to explore, or a much-needed date night destination, I've got you covered.
Get to know a little more about me in the fun Q&A below!
How long have you lived in the area?
I grew up in Schuylkill County and spent my young adult years working in Bloomsburg and Hazleton! I hopped over to Berks County when I got married, spent the past few years out in the Denver suburbs in Colorado, and returned "back home" in the fall of 2025. I'm happy to be back and raising my kids in the small-town communities that raised me.
What is your favorite "hidden gem" in the area?
Libraries are my favorite hidden gem everywhere. They're such a community hub. They're free to visit. They're filled with books and resources and often host events that support people of all ages. There's nothing better.
Coffee or Tea? And more importantly, where do you get it locally?
Both. Definitely both. Mostly I make it at home, but now that I'm thinking about it... maybe I need to take on a tasty beverage tour in the area... strictly for research and reporting purposes, of course.
What's something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I'm both a nature-loving feral mom who wants to frolic in flowers and forage and pet all the farm animals - and a mega nerd who enjoys comic books and gaming and actually knows what my kids are talking about when they go on a rant about Fortnite or the newest Mario game.
What made you want to become a publisher for Macaroni KID?
I've always enjoyed writing and sharing helpful information. But more importantly, over the years and through my personal experiences, I've realized how impactful it can be when community members come together to support each other. There's a lot of heart and passion for community in this area and I look forward to doing my part to support that. It truly takes a village.
What is your favorite feature on the website?
The calendar is my favorite part of the site. Finding things to do in this area can be a struggle and seeing everything in one place makes life so much easier. I even use it myself to look up what's happening that day. (Schuylkill Calendar HERE and North Poconos Calendar HERE.)
Rapid Fire Randomness:
PA Fall or PA Spring?
PA Fall foliage every day.
Coffee: Hot or Iced?
Iced. Mostly.
Paper Planner or Digital Calendar?
Paper planner with about 10 zillion digital reminders. (Thanks, Alexa.)
Messy Art Projects: Yes or no?
Yes, absolutely. Everything can be cleaned.
Early Bird or Night Owl?
Early Bird. I do love the stars and moon, though.
Podcast or Audiobook?
Audiobook.
Mountains or Beach?
Mountains.
Card Games or Board Games?
Oof. Board games, but I love both.
I am so looking forward to growing this community with all of you. My goal is to make my Macaroni KID sites a resource that truly reflects what our families need and would love your input! Whether you have a favorite local hidden gem I should know about, a recurring event that belongs on our calendar, or just a suggestion for a guide that would make your life easier, I want to hear it. Please feel free to reach out and say hello at any time by emailing me at StacieY@MacaroniKid.com. I am here to help you find your family's fun and I cannot wait to see you out and about in our beautiful community!
