Downtown Shenandoah, Inc. (DSI) is combed two of their biggest outdoor fundraising events. On May 21, 2022, Main Street in Downtown, Shenandoah was full of excitement and activity as the community celebrated Kielbasi Festival and Heritage Day. The festival opened with the annual Parade of Nations. Thousands of visitors traveled to Shenandoah for the one-day event.
Every year the DSI Promotions Committee accepts nominations for the parade’s Grand Marshall. This year, the late Tommy (Tally) Talerico was honored and his wife, Geri graciously accepted the award in his memory. Tally was a champion for his community, a successful business owner and committed family man. He was also well known throughout the running community for his dedication to the sport. An avid marathon runner, he co-founded the annual Coal Cracker 10K Road race that is held in Shenandoah, PA. This year marks the 40th anniversary of this popular and challenging race that brings hundreds of runners to the area “He is missed,” said Eric Becker, also involved in the race. “Tally was the person who encouraged me to run in the Coal Cracker Race many years ago and it was the first race I had ever run, he added.” The Coal Cracker 10K Road Race is scheduled June 11, 2022.
The annual Parade of Nations kicked off the festival and showcased all the different ethnicities that now call Shenandoah and Schuylkill County, home. “Parade participants wore their country’s colors, decorated floats, and carried flags. First responders, The Color Guard, government officials, fire trucks, area musicians and 2022 Grand Marshal paraded through town. “It was unanimous that Tally be honored as Grand Marshall this year,” said DSI Board member, Mary Luscavage. “In addition to his involvement with the race celebrating its impressive 40th year milestone, he did so much for so many. He will always be remembered for his laughter and smile,” she added.
After the parade, the festival opened with an introduction and welcome in the Memorial Park next to the Downtown Shenandoah, Inc. office. Senator Dave Argall, Representative Tim Twardzik, Commissioner George Halcovage and the Shenandoah Mayor, Andrew Szczyglak welcomed the crowd and presented Mrs. Talerico with proclamations. She expressed her appreciation for the Grand Marshall recognition and thanked everyone for their kind words and the honor.
