The Wandering Disciple

The Hershey Chocolate Factory has been crafting the great American chocolate bar for decades, a legacy built on simple, wholesome ingredients and an unwavering commitment to quality. At Hershey Chocolate World, this rich history comes to life, offering visitors an immersive, multi-sensory journey through the chocolate-making process.  The experience begins with the very foundation of chocolate: the cacao bean. Guests are transported, in spirit, to the tropical regions where these beans are harvested, learning about the crucial steps of fermentation and drying that are essential for developing the deep, complex flavors of fine chocolate. The journey continues as the beans arrive at the factory, where they are meticulously roasted—a critical stage that unlocks their characteristic aroma and taste—and then husked to reveal the nibs.  These roasted nibs are then ground into a rich, dark liquid known as chocolate liquor. From this point, the process shifts to the unique Hershey rec...

While Hersheypark has undergone numerous transformations and expansions throughout its history, several legacy attractions stand as testaments to the park's enduring heritage. Among the most iconic of these remaining classic rides is the SooperDooperLooper. Opened in 1977, the SooperDooperLooper holds a significant place in roller coaster history, as it was the first modern looping steel roller coaster on the East Coast of the United States and only the second in the world to feature a complete vertical loop. This pioneering Schwarzkopf-designed coaster features a simple yet thrilling layout, characterized by its signature 70-foot drop leading directly into a 57-foot vertical loop. Its enduring popularity with guests of all ages solidifies its status as a foundational piece of the Hersheypark experience and a true classic within the world of amusement park rides.  You can see more photos from Hersheypark here .  Taken: August 29, 2005 at Hersheypark (Hershey, PA)

The powerful C-130 Hercules aircraft belonging to the Pennsylvania Air National Guard stand in silent readiness on the expansive ramp at Harrisburg International Airport. These robust military transports, the backbone of tactical airlift operations, are poised for immediate deployment, embodying the state's commitment to defense and emergency response. Each aircraft represents a vital component of the Guard's mission, prepared to protect and serve the citizens and interests of the Keystone State, whether responding to domestic emergencies or fulfilling national security roles. The scene on the ramp is one of quiet professional vigilance, a constant reminder of the dedication of the airmen who maintain and pilot these essential assets. Taken: May 1, 2004 at Harrisburg International Airport (Middletown, PA)  

  Rising high above the picturesque Hershey landscape, the Kissing Tower stands as a truly iconic and unforgettable landmark. Since its inauguration in 1975, the Kissing Tower has captivated riders, providing them with a breathtaking, unparalleled panoramic view of Hersheypark and the sprawling surrounding area. The tower's unique, rotating circular cabin ascends gracefully to offer spectacular 360-degree vistas, allowing visitors to appreciate the charming architecture, the lush Pennsylvania countryside, and the energetic atmosphere of the park below. This impressive tower is but a single attraction among the vast array of offerings that await visitors. Hersheypark boasts a thrilling collection of 73 rides and attractions, ensuring there is something for every age and preference. From high-speed roller coasters that challenge the bravest thrill-seekers to gentle kiddie rides perfect for the youngest guests, the park is a world-class destination for fun and entertainment. Guests ca...

If you enjoy your freedom be sure to thank a veteran. As the nation celebrates Veteran's Day, we take a moment to pause and thank these brave men and woman for the sacrifices they have made to ensure our freedoms. While this day commemorates their service, I am thankful for them 365 days a year as because of them we can enjoy our freedoms and liberties.  Thank you to all the veterans for their service to the nation!  Taken: July 15, 2023 at Fort Indiantown Gap (Annville, PA)

The US military is a dominant force on the world stage. In order to remain battle ready, they rely on a massive fleet of cutting edge technology that gives them an advantage on the battlefield.  This is the M4A3 Sherman Tank. Introduced by the US Army during World War II, the Sherman Tank was the most widely used tank by the allied forces during the war. It was used by the US Army from 1942 to 1957 but remained in service with allies until 2018. This Sherman tank is on display at Fort Indiantown Gap in Pennsylvania.  Taken: July 15, 2023 at Fort Indiantown Gap (Annville, PA)

August 8th is International Cat Day and to celebrate the occasion here is a picture of a sleepy feline from the Philadelphia Zoo. From small house cats to the King of the Jungle, all cats are celebrated during this worldwide day. International Cat Day was established in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare to raise awareness about cats. The torch has been passed to International Cat Care and the mission has been expanded to help improve the health and welfare of cats globally.  Taken: July 12, 2023 at Philadelphia Zoo (Philadelphia, PA)

While the battle has long faded into history, a drive around Gettysburg will still bear witness to scars from the deadliest conflict of the Civil War. This is the Abraham Trostle farm in which a cannonball was fired into the barn. The hole made by the cannonball is still visible in the brick of the barn.  The Abraham Trostle farm was taken over by Major General Sickles and became the headquarters of the Third Army Corps. The farm came under heavy fire resulting in a valiant last stand by the 9th Massachusetts Battery. The skirmish resulted in heavy casualties and damage to the barn in which some is still visible today. Today the farm is one of the many prominent buildings maintained by the National Park Service as part of the battlefield park.  Taken: July 14, 2023 at Gettysburg National Military Park (Gettysburg, PA)

When you're the President, you can have all kinds of games. President Kennedy had the swimming pool in the White House, President Obama had basketball courts and President Eisenhower had his putting green. This Presidential game of putt putt was at his farm outside Gettysburg. You can tour Eisenhower’s farm when you visit the Eisenhower National Historic Site.  Located a short distance from Washington DC, the farm provided the President with a retreat from DC. Today you can see the farm and ranch house as well as his Presidential amenities like the Marine One Landing Pad, Secret Service offices and of course the Presidential putting green.  Taken: July 14, 2023 at Eisenhower National Historic Site (Gettysburg, PA) Photo of the Day: August 6, 2023

A group of Civil War reenactors set up a camp at Gettysburg. Civil War enthusiasts come from across the country to recreate one of the most critical battles during the war. This encampment was set up along Confederate Avenue near the start point to Pickett’s Charge. Taken: July 14, 2023 at Gettysburg National Military Park (Gettysburg, PA) 

On the morning of July 3, 1863 a bullet entered a home on East Cemetery Hill striking a homemaker as she was kneading dough in the kitchen. Twenty-year-old Jennie Wade would become the only civilian casualty of the Battle of Gettysburg as she died while baking bread for the troops in her sister’s kitchen.  Today the home has been preserved as a shrine to Jennie. The home is furnished from basement to attic with period furnishings and living history actors telling the story of Jennie and the battle.  Taken: July 14, 2023 (Gettysburg, PA)

A cannon sits atop a ridge in Gettysburg. The cannon battery would be positioned on the ridge line protect the high ground and the troops sheltering behind the ridge from attack forces down below.  Gettysburg was site of the deadliest battle of the Civil War and the only battle to be fought on northern soil. The Union victory in the battle would become a turning point in the war. Today a large portion of the battlefield has been preserved as a National Park.  Taken: July 14, 2023 at Gettysburg National Military Park (Gettysburg, PA)

A family of deer graze in one of the orchards in the Gettysburg battlefield. White tail deer can be found throughout the region grabbing a snack in fields or seeking cover in the treelines of the battlefield.  White Tail Deer are common in Pennsylvania and widely hunted. The deer have adapted to being hunted and have the intuitive ability to seek protection within the boundaries of the national park.   Taken: July 14, 2023 at Gettysburg National Military Park (Gettysburg, PA) 

One of the most iconic speeches in US history came from atop a hill in Gettysburg. President Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg address to dedicate the national cemetery and honor the brave soldiers who lost their lives defending the republic in the bloodiest conflict in the Civil War.  This historic moment is memorialized around the town including this statue at the county library. The statue was dedicated on November 23, 2013 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Gettysburg Address.  Taken: July 14, 2023 (Gettysburg, PA)

Walking up to the pathway to this mansion in Lancaster Township, you can see the elegance. In fact, the mansion almost looks fit for a president. Well that’s because it is the home of former President James Buchanan. Known commonly as Wheatland, the home served as the home to Buchanan from 1848 until his death. From the elegant mansion Buchanan served as the ambassador to Great Britain and as President of the United States.  Today Wheatland is part of the LancasterHistory museum. As part of your visit to the museum, you can learn about our country’s fifteenth president and get an opportunity to get an inside look at his home which hosted some of the most influential people during the period.  Taken: July 14, 2023 at LancasterHistory (Lancaster, PA)

For almost 100 years, the Landis Valley House Hotel was the crossroads of Lancaster County. From its strategic site in Landis Valley, the hotel was the center of life in the valley. But it was much more than just a lodge, it served as a restaurant, bar, post office, livestock auction, polling place and many more social functions. It was even the site of a shooting duel in 1886.  It was built in 1856 by Jacob Landis Jr. It served as a lodge up until 1930 when it became a restaurant. It would eventually be bought by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and is now on display as part of the Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum.  Taken: July 14, 2023 at Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum (Lancaster, PA) 

Perched atop the south end of Mount Penn, the Reading Pagoda has stood as a symbol of the city for over a hundred years. The Pagoda was built in 1907 to become the centerpiece of a luxury hotel. But the hotel never materialized and the Pagoda was gifted to the City of Reading in 1911.   Today it stands tall above Reading as a symbol of the city. You can see the Pagoda high above the hill from throughout the city. Or you can take the drive up Skyline Drive to the Pagoda and take in the panoramic view from the Pagoda and its adjacent park.  Taken: July 13, 2023 at Reading Pagoda (Reading, PA)

Fans of the Haunted Mansion at Walt Disney World may see some resemblance with this historic mansion in Jim Thorpe and the popular Florida theme park attraction. The exterior Harry Packer Mansion was the inspiration for the Haunted Mansion ride. But unlike the Florida attraction, you don’t need to become the thousandth haunt to spend a night in the mansion, the Harry Packer Mansion is now a popular bed and breakfast.  Built in 1874 by renowned architect Addison Hutton, the mansion features Victorian-age furnishings throughout the home. It was gifted to Harry Packer by his dad, Asa Packer who was a railroad magnate and eventually a political in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.   Taken: July 13, 2023 (Jim Thorpe, PA) 

The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway sits in the station in downtown Jim Thorpe awaiting its next excursion into the wood. Operated by the Reading and Northern Railroad, the scenic train ride takes visitors along into the Lehigh Gorge State Park for a journey along the Lehigh River.  The train operates on the historic rails of the Central Railroad of New Jersey. The Central was one of two railroads that serviced Jim Thorpe in late 1800’s and early 1900’s. While the Central and its competitor Lehigh Valley Railroad have given way to modern railroads, the tracks still remain in operation connecting Jim Thorpe with the east coast via rails.  Taken: July 13, 2023 at Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway (Jim Thorpe, PA) 

In the tribal language of the Sac and Fox, Wa-Tho-Huck translates to “path lit up at night by a bolt of lightning”. This was the name given to a gifted athlete who would later be known as Jim Thorpe. Born in Oklahoma, Thorpe would become a three-sport athlete and an Olympian.  Following his death, his wife at the time made an agreement with Mauch Chunk to have Thorpe buried there and the town name was changed to Jim Thorpe. As part of this agreement, a memorial park was dedicated to Thorpe where is body was laid to rest. Today the park is filled with monuments dedicated to him including this once called “The Spirit of Thunder and Lighting” which pays tribute to his Indian heritage.  Taken: July 13, 2023 at Jim Thorpe Memorial Park (Jim Thorpe, PA)