Enjoy a quarterly snapshot of our region with the latest edition of our quarterly digital magazine!
2025
Quarterly
Volume 15 January - March
Your All-Access Guide to Columbia & Montour Counties!
800.847.4810 iTourColumbiaMontour.com
📷 : DAN SONES
@PURPLECOWWINERY
@SADXSLEEPY
CONTENTS Table Of
Songs of the Susquehanna - Volume 5 4
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Cozying Up to a Cultural Experience
@MBMCFARLAND
New Entertainment Passport Coming Next Month
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Events Calendar
For the People of Columbia County: Historical Society 17 Starting the New Year off on the Right Foot 20
Member Spotlight 24
@JASONBUR10
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CATCH A SHOW AT BLOOMSBURG THEATRE ENSEMBLE | NEXT UP: STEPHEN KING’S “MISERY” | JAN. 23 - FEB. 9
Your WINTER Adventure Begins in COLUMBIA & MONTOUR Counties
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📷 : BOB RUSH
from the desk of John Zaktansky, Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association
SONGS OF THE SUSQUEHANNA: VOLUME 5 NOW OPEN FOR SUBMISSIONS; PUBLIC ENCOURAGED TO VOTE ON GREATEST HITS FROM PAST YEARS
or .wav version to midsusriver@gmail.com . Any lyrics must be copy and pasted into the body of the email or in an attached Microsoft Word document. Submissions are due by January 31, 2025. Starting Feb. 1 through Feb. 28, 2025, we will share the new submissions we have received for online feedback and use that feedback to help us select which new songs will be included in the final Volume 5 album. To help us prepare for this special Greatest Hits com- pilation, you can start listening to songs already on the previous four Songs of the Susquehanna projects and let us know which ones you’d personally select as your “Greatest Hits” so far in this effort. It is our goal to put out a Volume 5 product that is the perfect combination of different song options and genres and musicians that represent this project over the past five years ... including some of our new submissions.
Each year, we encourage people to submit original songs inspired by the river, its tributaries, and the ecosystem that depends on it for our annual Songs of the Susque- hanna project. Now in its fifth year, the project was developed as a way to raise awareness about all facets of the river and the watershed it sustains while offering an additional plat- form for our region’s extremely talented musicians to share their craft. It has evolved into a way for people of all skill levels to express their love of the Susquehanna, its history and our need to protect this valuable resource and the aquatic ecosystem connected to it. We are currently accepting new songs to be considered for Volume 5 of Songs of the Susquehanna, which will double as a Greatest Hits album. New songs should be family friendly and include a reference to the Susquehan- na, one of its tributaries, attributes or creatures that call it home. They should be no more than five minutes long and artists should submit no more than two original songs each. Submissions can be either entirely instrumental or have lyrics. Songs should be emailed ideally either in .mp3
A LINK TO LISTEN TO PAST SONGS AND VOTE ON YOUR FAVORITES IS LOCATED ON THE NEXT PAGE!
PAST “SONGS OF THE SUSQUEHANNA” CD’S! Click to Purchase
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CLICK TO LISTEN!
Inn Winter 24-Half_Layout 1 12/11/23 6:06 PM Page 1
Six Luxury rooms for today’s distinguished travelers who are looking for a comfortable home away from home! Wandell Inn 240 Main Street Benton, PA 17814 570-394-7033 www.wandellinn.com
A Picturesque Inn Nestled in the charming Village of Benton Pennsylvania... just a short drive from both Ricketts Glen State Park and Bloomsburg University. Each one of our six guest rooms is uniquely designed and features works by local artists. Our complimentary coffee bar awaits your visit.
to a Cultural Experience
When I was ten years old, a snowy day and a sled kept us kids entertained until we were nearly paralyzed with the cold. Somehow, the thrill of sliding at breakneck speeds down an icy hill with zero control is enough excitement to ignore sopping wet gloves and ears that actually burn with cold. We’d get summoned in for lunch, slurp up tomato soup and scarf down toasted cheese sandwiches and be ready to go again. The hats and boots that were still wet from the morning’s adventures were jammed back on half thawed limbs, and we’d dash back outside. As an adult with responsibilities, a snowy day often means hoping the snowblower starts. My grownup body doesn’t have nearly the tolerance for the cold or perhaps that spark of play from childhood simply isn’t enough to overcome discomfort. From January to the beginning of April, my outdoor activities are limited to necessary errands and exercise. Luckily, I’ve got three universities nearby with affordable, world class entertainment and all of it takes place
in a warm indoor space out of the elements. I’ve seen award-winning musical artists and comedians and been treated to the sights and sounds of vibrant cultures from across the world. I recommend trying something completely out of your realm of experience. The time I’ve spent immersed in a totally new experience is never time wasted. There is so much value in expanding our horizons and opening our hearts to new ideas. It enhances us
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mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It is a shared experience with others all seeing it through their own lens which is so similar and yet unique compared to ours. There’s nothing quite like it. Recently, I got tickets to see Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper at Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg. I’m typically the event planner for our small family, and I told the gang we were headed to a show but did not provide much context beyond that. I knew that Michael was a Grammy award-winning bluegrass fiddler but I was blown away seeing him perform live. It was an epic show and my husband and I had a wonderful time. Our teenage son was also present and did not complain, so that’s about as good as it gets on that. (I just remind him that this builds “character” and “memories” and someday he can do this to his own children.) The thunderous applause and standing ovation from everyone at the end of two hours that felt like two minutes said it all. The level of talent right here in my own backyard was astonishing, and sadly it’s often overlooked. If you missed that show – don’t despair: there’s plenty of others coming up! And again – it all takes place inside. Big plus for me. EMN’s Hip Hop Orchestra is coming up March 1 - a part dance party, part classical mash up. There’s the Reduced Shakespeare Company for light-hearted fun that everyone can enjoy, learning while laughing is always enjoyable. The Aaron Diehl Jazz Trio in April is perfect for setting the stage for date night. Just across the river at Bucknell, the Weis Center for the Performing Arts is a great venue for world class shows – I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Paula Poundstone perform her side-splitting comedy there. This season welcomes acts like the Henhouse Prowlers on February 14, the bluegrass inspired group from Chicago. The visually stunning Houston Ballet will perform acts from Don Quixote and Sleeping Beauty on March 28. I have to admit, I’ve never seen a ballet performance and Texas is not what I would associate with the 4th largest ballet company in the United States. But that’s what I love about these options in the arts in this area; we are always afforded an opportunity to learn. Performers from Ukraine to Germany to Brazil are all part of the Weis Center’s world class 2025 lineup. Our last member of the trio is Susquehanna University, just downriver a bit in Selinsgrove. Their strong Theater Department brought such plays as
The Henhouse Prowlers will perform at Bucknell’s Weis Center on Valentine’s Day, February 14.
Equus and Jesus Christ Superstar to life this past year and this spring’s line up looks just as great. Upcoming shows are Blood Relations - a look the infamous Lizzie Borden - and stories of strength and determination in These Shining Lives. In April, Michelle Cann and Imani Winds will grace the stage. Michelle is one of the most sought-after pianists of our time and Imani Winds is a 3-time Grammy nominated group of talented and dedicated artists embracing traditional chamber music and new voices. And if being outside in the cold is something you do enjoy, there’s plenty to do around here! By all means, strap on your skis, drill a hole in the ice and go fishing, build a snowman or take up ice climbing. I envy people whose joints still allow them to keep up with their inner child. But I’m taking my actual child and my inner child to go see Mutts Gone Nuts in February!
DON’T MISS IT! turn the page to check out our digital magazine’s special“box office” section, where you can take a look at the upcoming shows in our area!
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want to attend an upcoming show in our area? Click any of the photos below to be linked to their respective ticketing pages!
Kings Return Weis Center for the Performing Arts - Bucknell University Thursday, February 8
Mutts Gone Nuts Arts in Bloom - Commonwealth University Bloomsburg Friday, February 14
Henhouse Prowlers Weis Center for the Performing Arts - Bucknell University Friday, February 14
One-Act Play Festival Susquehanna University February 14 - 16
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Ensemble Mik Nawooj (EMN) - Hip Hop Orchestra Arts in Bloom - Commonwealth University Bloomsburg Saturday, March 1
DakhaBrakha Weis Center for the Performing Arts - Bucknell University Thursday, March 20
Houston Ballet Weis Center for the Performing Arts - Bucknell University Friday, March 28
‘Blood Relations’ - a play exploring Lizzie Borden Susquehanna University March 28 - 30
Michelle Cann & Imani Winds Susquehanna University Tuesday, April 22
Reduced Shakespeare Company Arts in Bloom - Commonwealth University Bloomsburg Friday, May 2
please note - this is not a complete list of all upcoming shows at our three area university performing arts centers. for a comprehensive list at each, click on your choice below!
commonwealth university - bloomsburg ARTS in bloom | bucknell university’s weis center | susquehanna UNIVERSITY performing arts
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Coming next month
A brand new passport experience is coming to the area next month, organized by the Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau. The 2025 Entertainment Passport will feature fourteen events and locations with live music and cultural entertainment at the forefront. Beginning in early February, anyone interested will be able to sign up to receive a FREE digital passport, delivered to their mobile device. Then, pass- holders will bring their mobile passport to the qualifying events and utilize the geographic based check-in tool to confirm their atten- dance. Check-ins are time/date sensitive and will be accepted anytime during the show as well as up to 1 hour before and 2 hours after- ward. Each event that participants visit will provide a chance to win a prize, which will vary between $50 gift cards, merchandise bundles, or a pair of tickets to a future show at that specific venue. Winners will be selected in the days following each show and notified via email. Each check in will also count as an entry for participants toward an end-of-passport Grand Prize drawing. The more stops made through- out the passport; the better a person’s chances. Expected grand prize package items include season tickets to the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble and several hundred dollars in gift cards for area eateries/breweries. The first event that qualifies for the passport will take place on Wednesday, February 26, and the final event will take place on Saturday, May 24.
EXPECTED PARTICIPANTS:
Arts in Bloom at Commonwealth University – Bloomsburg : Reduced Shakespeare Company | May 2, 2025 ~ Prize Giveaway - pair of tickets to a future show. Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble: The Little Prince | April 5, 2025 ~ Prize giveaway - pair of tickets to a future show. Knorrwood at Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble: Album Launch & Performances | May 16 & 17, 2025 ~ Prize giveaway - Knorrwood merchandise package. Susquehanna University: Michelle Cann & Imani Winds | April 22, 2025 ~ Prize Giveaway - a pair of tickets to a future show. The Exchange – Listening Room: Four More Great Guitarists | February 26, 2025 ~ Prize giveaway - a $50 gift card to The Exchange. The Exchange Presents: Howard Gospel Choir | May 18, 2025 ~ Prize giveaway - Howard Gospel Choir merchandise package. Weis Center for the Performing Arts at Bucknell University: Ruthie Foster | April 25, 2025 ~ Prize giveaway - pair of tickets to a future show.
Breweries/Pubs: Will each offer a $50 gift card prize to their establishment. Anomaly Brewing Company: The Alternative | May 14, 2025 Marley’s Brewing Company: Wesley James | May 24, 2025 Nickle Plate Bar & Grill: OZ Acoustic | March 22, 2025 Old Forge Brewing Company: Performer TBD | April 11, 2025 Rock God Brewing Company: Rapid Run | April 19, 2025 Turkey Hill Brewing Company: The Blind Owl Band | March 6, 2025 West End Ale House: Kerry Kenny Band | March 15, 2025
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MORE DETAILS (INCLUDING PASSPORT SIGNUP PAGE) COMING BY EARLY FEBRUARY. STAY TUNED!
Cafe NowOpen !
MARKET HOURS Tuesday through Saturday • 9am-3pm Monday through Friday 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-3pm
nk Association F23-Half_Layout 1 9/19/23 6:03 PM Page 1
521 Montour Blvd. (Rt. 11) Bloomsburg 570-387-0550 • WILDFORSALMON.COM
A truly special museum filled with displays and artifacts which celebrate the manufacturing of the Stuart Tank by the American Car & Foundry in Berwick and honor the brave veterans of WWII. Stuart Tank Memorial Museum
FREE Admission
Tuesday 11-5 • Friday 2-8 • Saturday 11-5 Or By Appointment
in Mid July every year at the Berwick Riverfront Park Test Track (dates on website)
Look for our Annual WWII Weekend
309 North Vine Street Berwick, PA 18603 570-350-9675 www.berwickstuarttank.org
@PRIME_SHOTS_PHOTO
EVENTS CALENDAR
paleontology in pennsylvania January 19 Montour Preserve 570-850-1166 – montourpreserve.org
RECURRING
early bird sports expo January 23 – 26 Bloomsburg Fairgrounds 570-784-4949 - earlybirdexpo.net stephen king ’ s misery January 23 – February 9 Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble 570-784-5530 - bte.org ann kerstetter band January 29 The Exchange’s Listening Room 570-317-2596 - ExchangeArts.org
first day hike with nature journaling and the pa master naturalists First day of each month Montour Preserve 570-850-1166 – montourpreserve.org
komodo dragon feeding Every last Friday of the month Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland 570-538-1869 - reptiland.com brewskis ’ bluegrass brunch
Last Sunday of the month Brewskis Coffee and Bar 570-317-2865
FEBRUARY environmental education expo February 8 Montour Preserve 570-768-6300 - vernalschool.org
JANUARY a stroke of luck January 6 – February 14 The Exchange Gallery 570-317-2596 - ExchangeArts.org north mountain art league member ’ s show January 9 – February 15 Artspace Gallery 570-784-0737 – artspacebloomsburg.com family feud : a murder mystery dinner January 17 Craft Catering at the Links at Hemlock Creek 570-594-8134 - CraftCateringLLC.com
creature feature February 8 Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland 570-538-1869 - reptiland.com
kings return February 8 Weis Center for Performing Arts 570-577-3727 - Bucknell.edu/WeisCenter heloísa fernandes quartet February 11 Weis Center for Performing Arts 570-577-3727 - Bucknell.edu/WeisCenter
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Play
Learn
Discover
2 West 7th Street Bloomsburg, PA 17815 (570) 389-9206 Monday through Saturday 10 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
www.the-childrens-museum.org
📷 : PAUL NAUS
EVENTS CALENDAR
mutts gone nuts February 14 Haas Center for the Arts 570-389-4409 – commonwealthu.edu
nate smith February 21 Weis Center for Performing Arts 570-577-3727 - Bucknell.edu/WeisCenter
henhouse prowlers February 14 Weis Center for Performing Arts 570-577-3727 - Bucknell.edu/WeisCenter one - act play festival February 14 – 16 Degenstein Center Theater, Susquehanna University 570-372-4237 - susqu.edu/artsandevents/
montour preserve maple sugaring open house February 22 Montour Preserve 570-336-2060 - montourrec.com four great guitarists ** first event in cmvb ’ s 2025 entertainment passport ** February 26
The Exchange’s Listening Room 570-317-2596 - ExchangeArts.org
bloomsburg gun show February 15 & 16 Bloomsburg Fairgrounds 570-784-4949 – eagleshows.com follow the leader February 18 – March 21 The Exchange Gallery 570-317-2596 - ExchangeArts.org
esmé quartet February 28 Weis Center for Performing Arts 570-577-3727 - Bucknell.edu/WeisCenter
MARCH ensemble mik nawooj ’ s hip - hop orchestra experience March 1 Haas Center for the Arts 570-389-4409 – commonwealthu.edu
poets and artist 2 February 20 – March 29 Artspace Gallery 570-784-0737 – artspacebloomsburg.com
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SPRING 2025 HIGHLIGHTS
Kings Return Sat., Feb. 8
DakhaBrakha Thurs., March 20
Ruthie Foster Fri., April 25
Houston Ballet II Fri., March 28
Bucknell.edu/ WeisCenter 570-577-1000
Henhouse Prowlers Fri., Feb. 14
the blind owl band ** event in cmvb ’ s 2025 entertainment passport ** March 6 Turkey Hill Brewing Company 570-387-8422 - turkeyhillbrewing.com
oz acoustic ** event in cmvb ’ s 2025 entertainment passport ** March 22 Nickle Plate Bar & Grill 570-672-5277 - knoebels.com/nickle-plate-bar-grill
rsg antiques show March 8 & 9 Bloomsburg Fairgrounds 570-784-4949 – rsgantiques.com creature feature March 8 Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland 570-538-1869 - reptiland.com
american dreams March 24 – May 2 The Exchange Gallery 570-317-2596 - ExchangeArts.org anthony james lalota March 26 The Exchange’s Listening Room 570-317-2596 - ExchangeArts.org
kerry kenny band ** event in cmvb ’ s 2025 entertainment passport ** March 15 West End Ale Haus 570-784-3500 - westendalehaus.com
houston ballet ii March 28 Weis Center for Performing Arts 570-577-3727 - Bucknell.edu/WeisCenter
blood relations by sharon pollock March 28 – 30 Degenstein Center Theater, Susquehanna University 570-372-4237 - susqu.edu/artsandevents/
dakha brakha March 20 Weis Center for Performing Arts 570-577-3727 - Bucknell.edu/WeisCenter
neave trio March 30 Weis Center for Performing Arts 570-577-3727 - Bucknell.edu/WeisCenter
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DineIn • TakeOut • Catering Westovers Country Grill creates delicious, good ole’ fashion home cooking in a nostalgic country setting. From comfort food like BBQ to delicious steaks and pasta, you’ll love every bite. We even make homemade desserts! Stop by anytime, especially if you’re on your way to nearby Ricketts Glen.
Dine inside or relax outside on our all weather outdoor deck/pavilion. It’s also the perfect place to have your next party, event, or business gathering.
4438 Red Rock Rd. Benton PA 17814 570-925-0330 Open at 11am Tuesday-Sunday
B.Y.O.B. Welcome!
OREN HELBOK
@KARUNA_SAH
@5BORO_OVRLAND
@DOINGDANVILLEPA
@AWYDRAPHOTOGRAPHY
For the People of Columbia County
by Linda Sones
The Columbia County Historical & Genealogical Society - An Amazing Community Resource
Days Gone By: Portraits of Bloomsburg
Have you ever used the Columbia County Historical & Genealogical Society’s services? I have, and I have found that they have a plethora of information about the county and the people that live here. They have articles, books, photos, certificates, military records, and everything a person might need to research their family or this region. The Columbia County Historical Society was formed in 1914 when our region was young but still had some interesting history that should not be lost. Columbia County was separated from Northumberland County in March 1813, so information prior to this date can be found in the Northumberland County archives. The Central Susquehanna Valley Genealogical Society started in 1976. They had information and achievements similar to that of the Historical Society. Since both had similar missions to provide the public with historical data, they decided to combine forces. On March 10, 1999, they merged and became the Columbia County Historical and Genealogical Society (CCHGS). It is run completely by volunteers who collect and catalog historic documents. For many years, they were housed on the second floor of the Bloomsburg Public Library. There they could display some of the items they acquired for their museum. But it was a small space and most of their historic items remained in storage, unseen by the public.
Vial Tobacconist & Roy’s Jewelers (Formerly J.G. Well)
J.C. Penney Company & Weis Markets used to occupy storefronts on E. Main Street.
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36th Annual
January 23-26, 2025 Thurs. 3-8pm, Fri. 10-8pm, Sat. 10-8pm, Sun. 10-4 pm Bloomsburg Fairgrounds 620 West 3rd Street Bloomsburg, PA 17815
Exclusive Patch Artwork by Ken Hunter
$7. Admission Children 12 & under FREE!
-Hunters Safety Course brought to you by the PA Game Commission -3D Archery Shoot by Bloomsburg Archery Club -Paper Shoot by Berwick Archery Club -Kid's BB Gun Shoot with the Orangeville Sportsmen Club -Scavenger Hunt for Kids
Demonstration & Seminars from: PA Trappers Association Zimmerman Wildlife Solutions
Thunder Ridge Outdoors Columbia-Montour SWAT
hunter's safety course sign up & archery Pre-registration can be found on our website at earlybirdexpo.net
...Portraits Continued
In May of 2024, the CCHGS purchased and moved into the old PNC Bank building located at 50 West Main Street in Bloomsburg. The new building has room for them to display many of their historical items, books, and it also has a research area. It may take awhile to get everything unpacked for guests to see, but at least they finally have room to do so. Along with all the historical data for Columbia County, the CCHGS also has research material on adjoining counties. Their research library is extensive and continually growing. A card catalog is available on their website and in their facility. They also offer genealogy workshops and sponsor public programs. The CCHGS is currently open to the public: Tuesdays from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Wednesdays from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Thursdays from 1:00 am – 5:00 pm Fridays from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm More hours may become available as volunteers are acquired. Visit their website at colcohist-gensoc.org to start your research!
The Housenick Ford Motors Garage in 1936. This was the second-oldest Ford dealership in the country. Following its closing, the building was remodeled for student apartments.
The Fernville Covered Bridge, with the Craig Mansion on the bluff in the background.
The First National Bank in 1908, at Market Square.
A peanut cart set up at Market Square.
T. L. Gunton Marble & Granite Company, which was located at what is now West End Ale Haus.
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from the desk of the Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership
Eighty Turn Out for First Day Hike Starting the New Year off on the Right Foot
Despite being a frequent visitor of the Montour Preserve, Larry Gerhard, of Northumberland, gained a valuable new perspective during the New Year’s Day First-Day Hike on Wednesday, January 1st. “The biologist walking around with us talked about things like certain insects that live in goldenrod. She shared some
Campbell, of Danville. “It was scenic and took us all the way around the lake. The views from certain vantage points were beautiful. We saw some wildlife, including a bald eagle and song birds.” The PA Master Naturalist group, which is currently accepting applications for a spring training to be held April through June at the Montour Preserve, provided volunteers that led discussions and answered questions during the trek around Lake Chillisquaque. “My husband, Bryan, and our two daughters (ages 13 and 10) all enjoyed the experience,” Campbell added. “Though they didn’t realize it was going to be a nearly 4-mile hike so they were pleasantly surprised at just how far they walked by the end of it!” Amy Monroe, of Shamokin, has been to the preserve quite often, hiking most of the trails and enjoying her family’s first
things that I never would have thought about,” he said. “She provided background on parasites like the Emerald Ash Borer and discussed the issues facing the American Chestnut. It was great information for me, and definitely for the kids we brought to hear and see first-hand.” He and four members of his Cub Scout Pack (3331) joined approximately 80 people who attended the First-Day Hike to kick off 2025. After an overview session on Leave No Trace principles, the participants were broken into three groups and staggered at different times onto the trail to keep numbers from being too overwhelming in any one cluster. “My family and I love to be in nature and wanted to start 2025 off in the outdoors with likeminded people,” said Laura
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kayaking adventure at the lake this past summer. Despite her familiarity, Wednesday’s hike provided some new experiences. “We saw a blue heron in a pond at a distance and a northern two-lined salamander crawling on the rocks over the dam. We identified poison ivy and learned that you can still have the reaction in the wintertime if you touch it,” she said. “It was fascinating going through the planet walk and seeing the distances to the sun and between the planets. I enjoyed learning and being outside in nature.” Guidance by Debra Steransky, one of the master naturalists who helped during the hike, “made the hike more interesting and memorable,” Monroe added. Opportunities like the First-Day Hike at the Montour Preserve are designed to develop a better fascination for people of all ages with our natural resources, according to Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership Program Supervisor Marissa Crames, who coordinated the event. “Programs which intentionally connect people with nature are vitally important with today’s high-tech and screen-dependent lifestyle,” she said. “We hope that the participants not only benefit from the physical activity, but learn and develop a love of the outdoors and all things wild.”
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Despite a transitioning weather pattern that brought colder winds and drizzle during the hikes, Gerhard was pleased with how his group devoured the experience. “As cold and wet and rainy as it was – we had water coming up from the ground at times – the kids did well and it is so important for them to break away from their electronics and really see and experience nature,” said Gerhard. “It is important for the environment for us to be out there and see our impacts as humans, to learn that when you see trash, you pick it up, and can witness the effects of the trails and how they are maintained and the work that goes into it. “When you can be in the middle of nature and intentionally required to tune in, you see the animals, the birds, the insects, the fish, the water. You see it all together and how it interconnects and better appreciate our role in it all.” Monroe agreed. “It is important because it reduces stress, improves mood, takes your mind off of other things even if it is only for a moment,” she said. “It is also important to focus your mental and physical health in a positive way.” While the First-Day Hike was a new experience for all three families, they all shared one additional important takeaway. “We’re looking forward to making it a tradition and plan to get out on the trail a lot this year,” said Campbell. Ultimately, the public response and large attendance -- only 30 participated in the 2024 kickoff first-day hike -- was exciting to Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association President and photographer Michael Kinney. “It was great to see that many people come to enjoy the Montour Preserve because it shows how many appreciate the area and pay attention to community events,” he said. “I can relate to some of the younger kids that started the hike a bit hesitant and were asking how much farther after just a few steps in the wet wind. But halfway through they were enjoying the time with games they came up with on their own, like racing down the hills and by the end were participating in asking questions about what they were spotting in nature. Being observant to nature is a great way to start the year and provides a fresh mindset to the beautiful world we live in.” For more upcoming events at the Vernal School, including a Paleontology in Pennsylvania program on Jan. 19, visit vernalschool.org and click on “The Programs” page link.
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570-799-5888 Hours: Thur, Fri, Sat, Sun: 7:30am-5pm Serving Breakfast 7:30-Noon Closed January Restaurant & Farm Market Banquet Hall with available Catering Christmas Tree Farm Check Website for Special Events!
Located 1 Mile Off Rt. 42 In Numidia 270 White Church Rd, Elysburg, PA
s Fall 24 - Half_Layout 1 9/17/24 3:21 PM Page 1
www.ponducefarms.com
616 Walnut Street Danville, PA 570-275-1310
Lunch • Dinner • Takeout • Delivery Something for everyone... entrees, appetizers, burgers, salads, soup and don't forget the fresh cut fries! Offering a full bar with a variety of domestic, imported, craft, and seasonal beers. Family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating. Open for lunch and dinner.
www.ltevansrestaurant.com Online Ordering Available!
@OMMANIPADMEHUMK8
Member Spotlight The Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau is proud to welcome the following businesses as recent new members to the organization!
joy and smiles gifts Bloomsburg, PA 17815 joyandsmilesgifts.com • 570.764.0109
Joy and Smiles offers an easy way to send a personalized, creative and unique gift to your friends and loved ones. Services include fun Sing-a-Grams, hand-delivered gift baskets, treat arrangements, college care packages, and much more.
shiloh bible church 123 Church Street, PA 17815 shilohbiblechurchbloomsburg.org • 570.784.3456
Wake up your Sunday mornings at Shiloh Bible Church! This is a great place to meet new friends, find needed encouragement, and discover God’s plan for your life. We invite you to join us for worship. Service are at 8:20 am, 9:40 am, and 11 am.
west end ale haus 117 West Main Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815 westendalehaus.com • 570.784.3500
In the heart of downtown Bloomsburg, West End Ale Haus has remodeled the location of the former Russell’s & Kristy’s Pub and still provides an unbeatable beer list and tre- mendous food all in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Come and see for your- self, West End Ale Haus, a new tradition for all.
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Van ' S musical Corner Van Wagner | Born in Pennsylvania. Lives in Pennsylvania. Makes music. Mined coal. Logs trees. Teaches kids. Van Wagner is an educator. In the classroom, he teaches Environmental Science at Danville Area School District. He has been se- lected as Conservation Educator of the Year in 2005 from Schuylkill County and in 2007 and 2009 in Union County. In 2012 he was awarded the Sandy Cochran award for natural resource education from the Pennsylvania Forestry Association. In 2015 the Red Cross presented Van with the Robert N. Pursel Distinguished Service Award. Outside of the classroom he educates audiences with his mu- sic and programs on Pennsylvania History. He received an Outstanding Achievement Award in 2018 from the Pennsylvania Heritage Songwriting Contest. His music has been featured on the History Channel, WVIA TV, as well as Country Music Television (CMT). He has released 36 original albums and published a book entitled “Coal Dust Rust and Saw Dust.” His music and programs not only entertain but inspire audiences to become involved in learning about Central Pennsylvania and beyond.
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