NEW BETHLEHEM, Pa. (EYT) — Gennie Gerow, wife of exploreClarion.com reporter John Gerow, volunteered Wednesday tonight to take on the Chairmanship of the Redbank Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Peanut Butter Festival. Gennie and husband John recently returned to New Bethlehem after living in Nevada and Kentucky for 12 years.

Former Festival co-chair Dianna Brothers chaired the meeting, which she opened by explaining that her dropping the Festival had more to do with the changes in her life than with the Festival.

She pointed out that several of the events associated with the Peanut Butter Festival would take on a life of their own regardless of whether or not the Festival continues. The Wine Walk, 5K Run, Mountain Bike Race and Car Show have enough support to happen on their own.

Dianna stressed that the Chamber would work closely with any individuals or groups that might want to take on the Festival.

Gennie Gerow offered to take on the work of planning and organizing the Peanut Butter Festival. Gennie offered that she had several years experience working with community events and large fundraisers while working at Operation Care, a Christian charity in Shelbyville, KY.

Discussion of issues and limits facing the Festival followed. Area residents expressed concern over uncertainty surrounding scholarship awards for the Festival’s Queen contest and limited electricity at Gumtown Park.

The members of the Chamber present suggested that they take Gennie Gerow’s offer to the Chamber Board for approval. Once that is done, Gennie Gerow will be looking for people to be part of the continuing Peanut Butter Festival.

For the latest updates on the Festival, visit RedbankChamber.com/peanut-butter-festival/ and Facebook.com/PeanutButterFestival/.