Joe Kubic, whose books have chronicled the history of Mountain Top, has been named grand marshal of the 2024 Mountain Top July 4 parade.
Dianne Hopersberger, president of Mountain Top on the Move (MTOTM), announced the selection of Kubic as the grand marshal of the annual event hosted by the organization. The parade steps off at 10 a.m. on July 4 on Route 309, Fairview Township near Dunkin’.
Hopersberger said the choice of Kubic was unanimous.
“When you walk into Barnes and Noble and see a shelf of books related to Mountain Top by Joe, the choice is obvious,” she noted. “We were so thrilled that Joe graciously accepted.”
The parade committee also decided to recognize the Mountain Top Historical Society for its many community projects, especially the caboose at the top of the mountain.
“Our local history will never be lost or forgotten because of the dedication of these friends and neighbors of Mountain Top,” Hopersberger offered.
The 80-year-old Kubic said he was surprised and honored to be named Grand Marshal. He pointed out his is one of two original members of the historical society, the other being its president Scott Hilinski.
Historical society vice president Steve McGinnis said the organization is proud of Kubic’s selection as parade grand marshal and honored to be recognized for its accomplishments.
“People just don’t realize everything Joe has done for the historical society,” McGinnis said. “The books he has created. The photographs he has donated. If it were not for Joe, the historical society wouldn’t be where we are today.”
Over the years, Kubic has compiled more than a half-dozen books on the history of the area as well as several calendars featuring historical photos of Mountain Top churches, parks and municipal buildings. His work not only has served to preserve the history of Mountain Top but also has helped the Mountain Top Historical Society raise funds through the sale of his books.
“I get great enjoyment in researching and providing the history as I find it, not rewriting it,” Kubic explained.
“If you look at the Mountain Top Historical Society membership card it reads ‘Dedicated to Preserve the History of the Past for Future Generations.’ That is my sole dedication,” Kubic said.
