Upper Milford Township has a rich history surrounding the jasper stone, considered precious to the Lenni Lenape Native Americans. Jasper Day used to be an annual event in the township for many years to recognize the importance of this stone to the area. Olivia Fay and the Upper Milford Township Recreation Committee wanted to bring back the event as a way of getting more of the community into the park. They spent this past year organizing Jasper Day held at Jasper Park June 21.

The big draw for the event included a 5K Trail Run throughout the park as well as a 1.5K walk. Approximately 80 participants signed up for the event. Bryn Mawr Racing Company provided the clock and timing for the event.

Isaac Hammett, of Emmaus placed first for the men’s division with 22:39:09. Nathan Hearn, of Macungie, placed second with 22:48:17. Marcus Dietz, of Emmaus, placed third with 22:59:41.

There was a misunderstanding with the course which affected the top six runners who went off course and had to renavigate their way back onto the course. The committee will make sure this does not occur next year.

For the women’s division, Sarah Conrad, of Barto, earned first place with 26:47:93. Nikki Gingrich, of Allentown, earned second place with 27:30:53. Jennifer Shubzda, of Emmaus, placed third with 27:50:50.

Runners ages 8 to 70 participated. The committee did not anticipate the number of younger runners participating and looks forward to providing other age division awards in the future.

John Arazaga of Hawaii, Reid Mathers, of Minnesota and Pierce Helm, of North Dakota, drove in from Fort Indiantown Gap to participate in the 5K trail run. The three men currently are members of the United States Army and had a free weekend. Arzaga said when they have a free weekend, they enjoy participating in running events in the local areas.

“It is a challenging course. We don’t have hills like this in Minnesota or North Dakota,” Mathers said.

The three servicemen appreciated the event and enjoyed the race. They all commented on the beautiful landscape of the park.

Grace Blewett, of Emmaus, said this was her first 5K. She said the uphill portion of the course was sunny and the downhill was shady. “I would have preferred the uphill to be shady and the downhill to be sunny,” she said. Blewett finished her first 5K trail run in 34:50:71. Most of the runners said the sun was hot by the 10:30 a.m. start and hope future runs begin at an earlier time to beat the heat.

In addition to the trail run and walk, many vendors were available to share information about the community. Alicia Fegley, of Ribbons of C.A.R.E., shared her personal struggle with being diagnosed with breast cancer at age 28 and trying to care for her family. Her nonprofit organization provides 12-week grants for childcare, babysitters or supplemental income for families living with medical situations.

The Kindness Project of Emmaus, Upper Milford Historical Society and the Emmaus Public Library were also available to share information about their programs and services to the community. Emmaus Public Library Director Allison Floray said there are currently 500 registrations for the summer reading program in just the past two weeks and they continue to have people register for the library programs.

Dave Sell from the Seed Farm shared information about farming, soil and community-supported agriculture.

Chris Stufflet of Hannaberry HVAC provided information on services as the community gears up for its first heat wave of summer. He also provided free water to visitors.

The Upper Milford Youth Association provided information and activities on the soccer field for children. Parents could pick up information on the various sports programs offered while the children played on the fields.

State Rep. Milou Mackenzie, R-131st and State Sen. Jarrett Coleman, R-16th, sent representatives to share children’s activities as well as information regarding services each of their offices provides for members of the community.

All the vendors provided children’s activities at their tables. Hank’s Italian Ice was the hot spot for a cool treat after the race ended. Macungie Ambulance Corps, Citizens Fire Company of Upper Milford and Vera Cruz provided support for the event.

The recreation committee said a survey will be sent to all the participants and vendors to get feedback on this revival event. They hope to make it an annual event.