Enjoy a quarterly snapshot of our region with the latest edition of our quarterly digital magazine!
2026
Quarterly
Volume 19 January - March
Your All-Access Guide to Columbia & Montour Counties!
800.847.4810 iTourColumbiaMontour.com
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CONTENTS Table Of
In the Garden - Winter Sowing 4
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At the Box Office: Upcoming Area Entertainment Events
@MBMCFARLAND
Songs of the Susquehanna & River of the Year Voting
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Events Calendar
Cabin Fever: A Look at Ten Cozy Lodging Establishments 19 Winter Walking in Berwick 25
Member Spotlight 29
@JASONBUR10
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Your WINTER Adventure Begins in COLUMBIA & MONTOUR Counties
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@JEFF_KRAUSE
In the Garden : Winter Sowing
Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Columbia County
It was winter, 1999. Trudi Davidoff had a dilemma. She had many seeds to start for her garden. However, she had limited space indoors, poor lighting, a small budget, and curious pets. Finally, a potential solution occurred to her. In nature, those seeds would have fallen to the ground as they ripened, and some would naturally sprout the following spring. Would a similar process work for her? Could she improve the percentage of successful seedlings? Trudi proceeded to experiment, beginning in late December. Gathering many disposable containers, she added drainage holes, filled them with potting mix and seeds, watered them, sealed the sides, and set them outdoors. She left the tops of the containers open to allow precipitation to enter, adding additional holes if needed. Then she waited. The results were astonishing. Almost all the containers filled with green sprouts as spring progressed. Not only that, but
by Julie Neves
the seedlings were stocky, had impressive root systems, and were well-adjusted to outdoor weather. Transplanted directly into the ground while tiny, they flourished, with almost no transplant shock.
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Old Forge is the perfect place to unwind with family and friends while enjoying fresh, outstanding food and hand-crafted beverages. We offer a full menu created by our chef, featuring Lunch, Dinner & Appetizers. FAVORITE PLACE! LET US BE YOUR
We offer up to 16 of our very own beers on tap with 2 additional on the hand pumps. We also feature a selection of wines and a cocktail menu. Daily Features & Special Dietary Options Call for Take-Out Orders! Beer To Go: Cans, Growlers, or Crowlers. Wednesday Trivia Thursday Wing Nite Fun Seasonal Events Live Music Every Other Friday & Sat.
532 Mill Street • Danville, PA 17821 • 570.275.8151 OLDFORGEBREWINGCOMPANY.COM
Before filling and planting, label the container. Remember, labels inside aren’t easily lost; exterior labels are more visible. Use an ordinary pencil on mini-blind slats inside the jug. Most “permanent” markers fade due to weather. Select industrial or paint markers, or grease pencils, for exterior label use. Use potting mix, not soil, in the container. Potting mixes are sterile, weed-free, and don’t compact. In our area, moisture-retentive mixes get too wet for winter sowing. Additional fertilizer isn’t needed, as seedlings are transplanted before they need it. Fill each container three to four inches deep with moistened potting mix, tamping it slightly. Plant seeds at the depth recommended on the seed packet. Add interior labels. Tape or wire containers to keep them closed until the weather warms up. Duct tape works well. Apply a small piece opposite the hinge for stability, then tape around the perimeter to seal the sides. Apply the perforated lids to their wide-mouth containers. Water the containers from the bottom by placing them in a few inches of water. Once the media is saturated, immediately move the containers outdoors. Site them where they will receive natural precipitation and plenty of sunlight. Protect them from being shifted by wind or pets. 5
Trudi began to share the method, starting on the now- defunct GardenWeb.com. Fellow gardeners eagerly tried the technique, loved their successes, and shared further. Trudi continued to expand her skills, eventually teaming with the USDA, where winter sowing is defined officially as “A propagation method used throughout the winter where temperate climate seeds are sown into protective vented containers and placed outdoors to foster a naturally timed, high percentage germination of climate- tolerant seedlings.” Here’s how to winter sow this year. Begin by collecting containers at least 6 inches tall that are clear or translucent, wholly or on the upper surface. Most winter sowers chose milk jugs, but soda and juice bottles, produce containers, take-out quart containers, plastic totes, etc., are all good possibilities. Poke, cut, burn, or drill at least four drainage holes or slits in the bottom of the containers, and additional holes one-half inch up the side if you place the containers on the ground. Discard narrow lids from milk jugs or soda bottles, but keep the wide lids on quart containers, adding holes or slits to allow water to enter. Cut open the sides of bottles or jugs parallel to the bottom about 4 inches above, leaving one side uncut to form a hinge.
Equipment for winter sowing is easy to find and use.
As the days get longer, the jugs will heat more in the daytime. Keep an eye on moisture levels and water from the bottom if needed. The seeds will begin to sprout when conditions are right for that species. Once true leaves appear, start opening the containers or adding more ventilation. At two sets of true leaves, transplant seedlings to their final location. Winter sowers often use the “Hunk of Seedlings” (HOS) method for very tiny plants, planting ice-cube-sized chunks of potting mix and seedlings together. Water transplants well, and keep shaded for a day or two. Seeds of plants not from tropical regions may be winter sown. Start early in the winter if the seed requires a long stratification (cold treatment). Plant vegetables and
flowers that do not require long cold periods in late winter. Winter sowing can continue until night temperatures are over 50°F regularly. The seedlings may still appear for some weeks after that. Don’t worry about late freezes or snow. These seedlings are very hardy. Join the many gardeners who are pleased with the results of this easy seed-starting method! About the author: Julie Neves has been a Penn State Extension Master Gardener for over five years, but her interest in all things green and growing extends back to her single-digit years. Although she’s not a person to take hiking if you want to cover ground quickly, she would be helpful if you got lost in the wilds.
This is the second article in a new quarterly feature series from the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Columbia County. We will showcase a different gardening topic every edition, from a variety of Gardener guest experts.
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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.
want to attend an upcoming show in our area? Click any of the photos below to be linked to their respective ticketing pages!
Radiant Vermin Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble Thursday, January 29 - Sunday, February 8
Drum Tao Weis Center for the Performing Arts - Bucknell University Friday, January 30
East Nash Grass Weis Center for the Performing Arts - Bucknell University Thursday, February 5
Theatre Nohgaku Susquehanna University Tuesday, February 10
please note - this is not a complete list of all upcoming EVENTS at our area university performing arts centers and the bloomsburg theatre ensemble. for a comprehensive list at each, click on your choice below!
ARTS in bloom at commonwealth university - bloomsburg | bLOOMSBURG THEATRE ENSEMBLE bucknell university’s weis center | susquehanna UNIVERSITY performing arts
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Shadow Cities: Ephrat Asherie Dance w/ Arturo O'Farrill Weis Center for the Performing Arts - Bucknell University Thursday, February 12
Step Afrika! Arts in Bloom - Commonwealth University Bloomsburg Saturday, February 21
Bang on a Can All Stars Weis Center for the Performing Arts - Bucknell University Sunday, March 1
Goitse Weis Center for the Performing Arts - Bucknell University Thursday, March 19
Mike Super Arts in Bloom - Commonwealth University Bloomsburg Friday, March 27
John Holiday Susquehanna University Tuesday, April 7
Aquila Theatre: Hound of the Baskervilles Arts in Bloom - Commonwealth University Bloomsburg Friday, April 10
Little Women Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble April 9 - 26
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from the desk of John Zaktansky, Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association
SONGS OF THE SUSQUEHANNA: VOLUME 6 NOW OPEN FOR SUBMISSIONS
individual or group submits a third option that includes student involvement in vocals, instrumental and/or songwriting. Again, our goal with this year's album is to give our young musicians an extra opportunity for a voice about our river. All submissions should be sent via email as either .wav or .mp3 files to midsusriver@gmail.com and any lyrics should be includ- ed in the body of the email or as an attached word document. All submissions are due no later than January 31. They will all be shared on our website during the month of February for online feedback before the final 20 are selected for the 2026 album. In addition, this year, we will be holding a special Songs of the Susquehanna concert event in coordination with our Songs of the Susquehanna featuring artists from our 2026 album (and some from previous years as space and time allow). More on this will be shared as it becomes available. Other cool oppor- tunities with this project are in the works and will be shared as they become available. If you have any questions or need assistance in connecting with a local musician to get an idea moving toward a song, contact us at midsusriver@gmail.com. RIVER OF THE YEAR VOTING The 20-mile-long Chillisquaque Creek may not be the largest Pennsylvania River of the Year finalist, but the tributary of the Susquehanna's West Branch is definitely symbolic of the greater
Each year, we encourage people to submit original songs inspired by the river, its tributaries, and the ecosystem that de- pends on it for our annual "Songs of the Susquehanna" project. The project is now in its sixth year. It was developed as a way to raise awareness about all facets of the river and the watershed it sustains while offering an additional platform 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. Each year, we encourage musicians of all backgrounds, skill levels, genres, etc., to submit original songs inspired by the Susquehanna, its tributaries and/or the creatures that depend on these resources. We are currently accepting submissions of new original songs inspired by the Susquehanna River, its tributar- ies and/or the creatures that depend on it all for consideration for our 2026 Songs of the Susquehanna effort. This year, we are putting an extra emphasis on student-based submissions, encouraging schools, music departments and other areas to lift up young artists, writers, etc. to get involved and share their collective voice in song options. Any musician, regardless of skill level, can submit songs ... either with lyrics or instrumentals. They should be no longer than five minutes in length and any with lyrics need to be appropriate for all ages to listen to. No explicit lyrics, please. We are limiting submissions to two per musician/artist/group EXCEPT if that
PAST “SONGS OF THE SUSQUEHANNA” CD’S! Click to Purchase
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river basin’s history, issues and potential to overcome those challenges with creative collaborative solutions, according to Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky. “Many times, you look at the bigger Susquehanna River and can quickly get overwhelmed with the scale and scope of everything that needs to be done. However, when you focus on a snapshot like the Chillisquaque Creek and the key partners and resources available in this area, then recognition of something like River of the Year truly can make a difference,” he said. “We can showcase some incredible work that already has been done, shine a light on some of the bigger issues and how to maybe look at them a little differently and breathe life and key awareness into the groups and individuals that deserve a jolt of fresh air.” The creek joins the Conestoga River and Lower Schuylkill River as the three finalists for the 2026 Pennsylvania River of the Year award. Voting is open through Jan. 16, 2026, with the winning waterway receiving specialized awareness and funding for a sojourn and other key projects and events. Chief among the communities along the creek is Washington- ville, a borough in Montour County named after George Wash- ington and birthplace of eventual millionaire Frank DeLong, a famous inventor of the late 1800s and early 1900s.
“Chillisquaque Creek is a living historical document, blending its unique cultural heritage with a modern focus on environmental stewardship. Its history — from an 18th century Shawnee village at its confluence with the West Branch of the Susquehanna River, to five Revolutionary War forts adjacent to the creek, to three national register recognized 19th century covered bridges, to modern day natural landmarks like Mill Park, Blue Springs and the Montour Preserve — makes the creek a profoundly valuable as- set,” said Washingtonville Mayor Tyler Dombroski. “A River of the Year designation is critical because it would unite the communi- ties of the entire Chillisquaque watershed. It’s a chance to honor our common history and build partnerships that will protect this incredible resource for generations to come.” One of the big projects the River of the Year award would help impact is connectivity between the town of Washingtonville and the Susquehanna River. Currently, there are numerous log jams that make paddling from the borough’s kayak launch at Mill Park to the river extremely difficult. “We are committed to working with local partners at the county conservation district offices, the Montour Area Recreation Com- mission, the Bucknell University and others to safely clear those obstructions and open up a new recreational passage to the river that would help connect people to our natural resources in ex- citing new ways,” said Zaktansky. “It also allows us to intentionally study the impacts of such obstructions and aquatic passageway opportunities along an extended area.”
VOTE FOR THE CHILLISQUAQUE CREEK BEFORE JAN. 16TH!
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EVENTS CALENDAR
RECURRING
bloomsburg library bridge club Every Monday Bloomsburg Public Library 570-784-0883 – bloomsburgpl.org berwick area veterans center Every Monday & Wednesday McBride Memorial Library 570-752-2241 - mcbridelibary.org craft pizza night Every Monday Craft Catering at the Links at Hemlock Creek 570-594-8134 - craftcateringllc.com
play traditional mahjong Every Thursday Bloomsburg Public Library 570-784-0883 – bloomsburgpl.org river poets First Thursday of the month Bloomsburg Public Library 570-784-0883 – bloomsburgpl.org
first friday in downtown bloomsburg First Friday of every month Downtown Bloomsburg 570-661-1936 - downtownbloomsburg.org
american mah jongg Every Tuesday Bloomsburg Public Library 570-784-0883 – bloomsburgpl.org dungeons and dragons Every Tuesday Bloomsburg Public Library 570-784-0883 – bloomsburgpl.org
open mic at rock god brewing Last Friday of the month Rock God Brewing 570-284-4096
bloom yarnies Every second and fourth Saturday 570-784-0883 - bloomsburgpl.org
komodo dragon feeding Last Saturday of the month Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland 570-538-1869 - reptiland.com brewskis ’ bluegrass brunch
montour county genealogical room Every Wednesday Boyd House Museum 570-271-0830 - montourcountyhistoricalsociety.org
quaker steak & lube bike nite Every Wednesday Quaker Steak & Lube 570-389-9464 – quakersteakandlube.com
Last Sunday of the month Brewskis Coffee and Bar 570-317-2865
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EVENTS CALENDAR
JANUARY
10 th annual science fair January 22 Bloomsburg Fire Hall 570-389-9206 - the-childrens-museum.org
crossroads January 5 - February 13 The Exchange Gallery 570-317-2596 – exchangearts.org the coffeehouse series presents : sweeney & hickey January 14 Anomaly Craft Brewing 570-317-2596 – exchangearts.org uncovering covered bridges January 16 Columbia County Historical and Genealogical Society 570-784-1600 - colcohist-gensoc.org butterflies LIVE! with folk ’ s butterfly farm January 17 The Bloomsburg Children’s Museum 570-389-9206 - the-childrens-museum.org
charles havira at the exchange listening room January 28 The Exchange Gallery 570-317-2596 – exchangearts.org
early bird sports expo January 29 – February 1 Bloomsburg Fair Grounds 570-437-2460 - earlybirdexpo.net radiant vermin January 29 – February 8 Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble 570-784-5530 - bte.org
drum tao ( japanese taiko drums ) January 30 Weis Center for the Performing Arts 570-577-1000 - bucknell.edu
winter book sale January 20 – 24 Bloomsburg Public Library 570-784-0883 - bloomsburgpl.org
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FEBRUARY
fairy tales February 17 – March 20 The Exchange Gallery 570-317-2596 – exchangearts.org step afrika ! February 21 Haas Center for the Arts - Commonwealth University 570-389-4409 – commonwealthu.edu four great guitarists at the exchange listening room February 25 The Exchange Gallery 570-317-2596 – exchangearts.org murder mystery fundraiser February 26 – March 1 Bloomsburg Public Library 570-784-0883 - bloomsburgpl.org pilobolus ( contemporary dance ) February 26 Weis Center for the Performing Arts 570-577-1000 - bucknell.edu montour preserve maple sugaring open house February 28 Montour Preserve 570-336-2060 - montourpreserve.org
east nash grass ( bluegrass ) February 5 Weis Center for the Performing Arts 570-577-1000 - bucknell.edu beijing guitar duo ( classical ) February 8 Weis Center for the Performing Arts 570-577-1000 - bucknell.edu
theatre nohgaku February 10 Susquehanna University Artist Series 570-372-2787 - susqu.edu the coffeehouse series presents : seth mitchell band February 11 Anomaly Craft Brewing 570-317-2596 – exchangearts.org shadow cities : ephrat asherie dance with arturo o ’ farrill ( contemporary dance / jazz ) February 12 Weis Center for the Performing Arts 570-577-1000 - bucknell.edu
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📷: COMMONWEALTH U. - BLOOMSBURG
EVENTS CALENDAR
FEBRUARY (CONT.)
mac and cheese festival March 7
Bloomsburg Fair Grounds macandcheesefestpa.com the coffeehouse series presents : the baker ’ s basement March 11 Anomaly Craft Brewing 570-317-2596 – exchangearts.org
eagle arms gun show February 28 – March 1 Bloomsburg Fair Grounds/ Industrial Arts Building 610-393-3047 - eaglearms.com bloom CON hak 4 kidz February 28 Kehr Union Building – Commonwealth University 570-389-9206 - the-childrens-museum.org chick and bunny day February 28 Bloomsburg Children’s Museum 570-389-9206 - the-childrens-museum.org
goitse ( traditional irish ) March 19 Weis Center for the Performing Arts 570-577-1000 - bucknell.edu
bloomsburg home and garden show March 21 & 22 Bloomsburg Fair Grounds amreevents.com
MARCH
murder mystery dinner March 21 Craft Catering at the Links at Hemlock Creek 570-594-8134 - CraftCateringLLC.com
bang on a can all stars feat . bucknell choir ( contemporary classical / choral ) March 1 Weis Center for the Performing Arts 570-577-1000 - bucknell.edu
belief March 23 – May 1 The Exchange Gallery 570-317-2596 – exchangearts.org
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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!
@KNOEBELS
one acre west at the exchange listening room March 25 The Exchange Gallery 570-317-2596 – exchangearts.org artemis : arboresque ( jazz ) March 27 Weis Center for the Performing Arts 570-577-1000 - bucknell.edu mike super March 27 Haas Center for the Arts 570-389-4409 – commonwealthu.edu wine shine ‘ n pierogi palooza March 28 Bloomsburg Fair Grounds clickershows.com
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OREN HELBOK
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Cabin Fever
A Look at Ten Fantastic Lodging Options in Our Area to Help Escape the Winter Blues
by Linda Sones
Most of us feel it. The long dark days, the chill in the air, and the snow. This is when it’s time to start planning your summer vacations. Where should you go? What should you see? Where should you stay? For me, the “stay” is half the fun. I want to feel comfortable and safe. And, if the place has some great history or features – even better! So, let me tell you about ten great places to stay in our area that are sure to help chase those winter blues away.
An aerial view of Raven Creek Lodge.
1. RAVEN CREEK LODGE
Raven Creek Lodge is one of our newest Bed & Breakfast partners, located in northern Columbia County close to Ricketts Glen State Park. Innkeepers Greg and Nancy purchased the property in 2025 from a family that ran it as a B&B and Wedding venue in the past. Greg and Nancy plan on doing the same. They enjoy meeting new people and providing them with a memorable stay. Raven Creek Lodge is just ten minutes from the Ricketts Glen Falls Trail and State Park. The deck provides a peaceful view of the countryside. There is space for weddings, class reunions, family reunions, and more! It also provides a fire pit, acres of grass yard, a pond, a tent pad, a pavilion, and so much more!
The Raven Creek Lodge's spacious front porch.
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The Pump House Weddings and B&B exterior.
Historic image of the Wandell Inn, built in 1903.
The Wandell Inn, present day.
2. WANDELL INN
The Wandell Inn is located in the town of Benton in northern Columbia County. Innkeeper Rebecca said it was a risky move as they purchased the Inn in 2020 during the pandemic. She and her husband used this to their advantage and turned the Inn into a space that travelers enjoy. Rebeca was the bookkeeper for the previous innkeeper and loves the inn’s architecture and the Benton history. This six bedroom/six bathroom inn is perfect for those family outings with common areas large enough for everyone! The Inn also features a front porch, a back porch, a side yard, and is a perfect location to explore the town. Additionally, it is walking distance to antique shops, the Benton Rodeo, and only minutes from Ricketts Glenn State Park.
The Pump House's Manifold House "Honeymoon Suite"
3. PUMP HOUSE WEDDINGS AND B&B
The Pump House Weddings and B&B. If you like history, you’ll love this Inn. It all started in 1878 when some ambitious young men drafted a plan for the world’s first long-distance underground oil pipeline. Pumping stations were needed along the route of the line every 50 miles. The Pump House Weddings and B&B is one of the only locations in the country where both the original homes of the foremen and the brick buildings remain. Innkeeper Doug has spent more than 20 years restoring and preserving these incredible pieces of history. These buildings now function as reception space for weddings and gatherings. One house provides a private suite for Doug and his wife, Lisa, and is also an art studio where Doug pursues his talents and teaches drawing, ceramics, and stained glass. The second house provides additional guest lodging. There are walking trails along Catawissa Creek and a tree identification trail.
A room at the Elmdale Inn in Bloomsburg.
4. ELMDALE INN
This Georgian Revival home was built in 1868 and is located in the heart of Bloomsburg. For 150 years, it was a private residence. Innkeepers Deb and Jack purchased the home in 2019, letting Deb’s vision of opening a B&B start to unfold. Deb, a former pediatric oncology nurse, assisted in creating Camp MOM for people caring for sick children. This is where
The library at the Elmdale Inn is perfect for relaxing with a good book this winter!
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her thoughts of owning a B&B, a place of peace and relaxation originated. Jack is the mastermind behind all the repairs and improvements to the inn. He is the “hands-on hero” behind the scenes. Together, they turned this house into a place where comfort, character, and hospitality blend seamlessly. The Elmdale Inn offers its guests easy access to this historic town, restaurants, museums, live theatre, and so much more! Walking distance to the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds, Bloomsburg University, walking trails, and historic features. Generously sized rooms are furnished in period style, plush lines, and the glow of gas fireplaces. Homemade breakfast each morning is provided in the dining room or on the patio. And if you are seeking a quiet corner to relax in, the library provides a perfect haven with numerous old books. This is a place to slow down, breathe in its history, and feel wonderfully at home.
A room at the Paper Mill Pines in Huntington Mills.
5. PAPER MILL PINES BED & BREAKFAST
Paper Mill Pines Bed & Breakfast is another location with some interesting history! Innkeeper Donna and her family were looking for a new home with some land. They just happened to find Paper Mill Pines. They weren’t looking to open a B&B, but once they found this location and learned of its history, they just had to share it! The property was built in 1867 by two brothers who were taken prisoners during the Civil War. They swore to each other that if they ever got home again, they would open a paper mill. They did come home and built Paper Mill Pines to make brown rye paper that was sent all over the East Coast. There are still remnants of the mill near the pond. Five rooms, each with a private bath, face the pond. The house has windows all along the pond side of the house so everyone can enjoy the view. In addition, Donna raises hens so their guests can have the freshest eggs in the morning. There is also a glamping site, complete with a canvas tent and a queen-size bed on the other side of the pond that is popular with many guests.
Spend some relaxing time at the Paper Mill Pines.
6. INN AT TURKEY HILL
The Inn, Farmhouse, and Brewing Company at Turkey Hill originated as the Eyerly family farm, spanning 100 acres, in 1942. The Farmhouse was built in 1939 and served as the family home for decades. Paul Eyerly dreamed of turning the house into a welcoming country inn for those traveling on Interstate 80. After Paul’s passing, his daughter, Elizabeth, made his dream a reality and opened the following year to tired travelers. The historic home offers modern conveniences with fireplaces and two-person jacuzzi tubs, all featuring handmade wood furniture, most with private exterior entrances. The Farmhouse’s greenhouse dining area overlooks the courtyard and goldfish pond. The barn has been converted into the Turkey Hill Brewing Company and offers pub fare and locally- brewed craft beer on site. Today, Paul’s grandson, Andrew, and his great-granddaughter, Olivia, continue the legacy as owners and innkeepers, keeping it a beautiful place to unwind, reconnect, and enjoy high-quality food and drinks. The Inn, Farmhouse, and Brew Company at Turkey Hill is the Oasis along the highway!
The Inn at Turkey Hill is a luxuriously relaxing winter stay.
Enjoy a soak in your own private in-room jacuzzi tub at the Inn at Turkey Hill.
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7. FEATHERBED & BREAKFAST
Featherbed & Breakfast, circa 1881, is a restored Victorian rooming house in the village of Jamison City. Jamison City was established in the woods at the northern terminus of the Bloomsburg and Sullivan Railroad. In 1889, a sawmill was built here, and a city was born. However, it stopped producing wood in 1912, and the final load of lumber from it was shipped to Bloomsburg in 1914. There was also a tannery, but it was closed in 1925. The Featherbed & Breakfast is typical of the small hotels of the late 19th century, and was a perfect choice for Fred and Mary when they were looking for their B&B. It is nestled in the valley of the Big Fishing Creek at the southern gateway to the Endless Mountains. Inside, you will find historical photos of Jamison City. Located seven miles from Ricketts Glen State Park makes this a perfect location for hiking, fishing, boating, winter sports, and hunting.
The beautiful Featherbed & Breakfast in Jamison City.
8. DOCTOR'S INN
The Doctor's Inn's innkeeper, Tina, always dreamed of opening a bed & breakfast, and she chose to do so at the historical house at 107 West Market Street, Danville, which dates back to the 1880's and has been a home to many of Danville's well-known ancestors. Local people also knew this historic home as a physician's office. From the late 1950's to the early 1980's, Dr. William Curry was the physician to many of Danville's residents. Those who passed through the doors of the Queen Anne Victorian-style home left with a bottle of elixir and toting a prescription for better health. Today, The Doctor's Inn offers an invitation for rest and relaxation where guests may escape the fast-paced world and become reacquainted with the Victorian Era. The craftsmanship of an ornate mahogany staircase, high ceilings, pocket doors, and romantically spacious, yet carefully decorated bedrooms, will send you back in time. Guests may gaze across the brightly lit borough at night, enjoy a delightful breakfast, relax among the backyard gardens, or stroll the streets of downtown Danville. The Inn is 1.2 miles from the Geisinger Medical Center main campus. Those who visit may learn that this combination of history and relaxation is just what the doctor ordered.
The historic dining room at the Featherbed & Breakfast.
The Queen Ann Victorian-style Doctor's Inn in Danville.
9. OLD TIOGA BED AND BREAKFAST
Welcome to The Old Tioga Bed And Breakfast. If a cozy country getaway with a hearty breakfast is what you seek, Innkeeper Laura has you covered! Started in 2011, it is truly a family-run inn! Situated in the countryside of northern Columbia County, just 4 miles to Ricketts Glen State Park, this log home B&B offers you a restful night to remember. This quaint and charming inn is situated on three secluded and wooded acres. Their family-friendly inn will pamper you and your loved ones with its rustic charm and many
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The bright dining area at the Doctor's Inn.
amenities, including a Jacuzzi for two, a toasty fireplace, comfy beds, and plenty of room for children to play outside with the ducks, chickens, goats, dogs, and cats. All the Master Suites have their own entrances. And like I said, a hearty breakfast for all. Nearby is the Mill Race Golf Course, prime trout fishing on Fishing Creek, it is near State Gamelands, and various other local activities, including the Benton Rodeo!
10. WHITE BIRCH INN
If the Old Tioga B&B is full or maybe too rustic for your taste, Laura still has you covered. Her White Birch Inn is a beautifully restored Victorian bed and breakfast located in the heart of Berwick. Combining timeless charm with modern comforts, the inn offers seven thoughtfully appointed guest rooms—each with a private bath. Ideal for weekend getaways and extended stays. The "Hidden Suite" is located on the 3rd Floor of the house. It's spacious and romantic, and includes a king-size bed, a whirlpool tub with a rainfall showerhead. Also, a small kitchenette and eating area for 2. Each dormer has its own unique charm and is multipurpose. The Hidden Suite is wonderful for a solo getaway or a romantic weekend away. The White Birch is walking distance from the historic Jackson Mansion & Carriage House, the historic David A. Sadock House, and the Ross & Boone Gift Shoppe. The McBride Memorial Library and the Stuart Tank Museum are also within walking distance. So, did this help you find your perfect Bed & Breakfast or unique lodging establishment to reduce your cabin fever? Let them know you’re coming, and I’m sure they’ll leave the lights on for you. Safe travels! •
The Old Tioga Bed & Breakfast is a country getaway located just 4 miles from Ricketts Glen State Park.
Watch the snow fall while cozy and warm inside the log cabin-style Old Tioga B&B.
The White Birch Inn is located in the heart of Berwick.
One of the cozy rooms at the White Birch Inn.
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37th Annual
Jan. 29 - Feb. 1, 2026 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
by Jenn Puckett
Winter Walking in Berwick Starting the New Year off on the Right Foot
Where is home? Is it where we are born or where our formative years were? Maybe home is where we were when we did things like graduated school or got married. I'm pretty lucky in that all of those things are great places in Columbia County and my "homes" have been Berwick, Lightstreet, Orangeville and Bloomsburg. I moved away for about a decade, just long
installed in homes, not carried in pockets. It was home to the Berwick Christmas Boulevard, my clearest memory of which is some old clunker we had overheating, my dad and others adding water to the radiator while I ate Wise potato chips in the back seat. I remember when my dad got a job at Maier's Bakery and on Friday nights, he would bring home Tuzzi's pizza. Where I grew up in Orangeville, going to town meant going to Bloomsburg. Going to Berwick was out of the ordinary, and I associated it with a special trip to Dalo's for an eclair or when I went to Walker's Jeweler's to order my class ring. So one cold day as I was restocking the Walk Berwick brochures at the Welcome Center, I realized that was something I'd very rarely done. I'd toured the Jackson Mansion, and walked around the cemetery on Market Street, but I'd never taken a deliberate walk about the streets. The
enough to begin to appreciate all that I grew up around. But the place I know the least about is where I was actually born and lived in the earliest days of my life: Berwick. When I was growing up in Orangeville the 80s, Berwick was the place with the Berwick Bulldogs. In my vague understanding of division football, they were a team so good they didn't play the other local schools. Berwick was long distance to call from my house and we were forbidden to make those without permission. This of course was back when telephones were
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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
night before I was to set out, I got curious where the name of Berwick came from...and right down the rabbit hole I went. Berwick is named after a town in England called Berwick- Upon-Tweed, which might be the most British name I've ever read in my life. In fact, ours twinned with one across the pond, but luckily whoever had the deciding vote here didn't call go all in with "Berwick-Upon-Susquehanna". I couldn't find much in common with the namesake and the 'Wick we all know, but I'm betting the location of the river was a big part of it. I learned about Berwick's history as part of the stagecoach line and the many hotels that were built to service weary travels and trade in tired horses for fresh teams. One can only imagine how welcoming it must have felt to step inside the Hotel Berwick for a wash, good food and nights rest. The hotel is gone now, but parts of the iconic dining and bar area are on display at Bill's Old Bike Barn. I knew the American Car and Foundry Company made tanks, but I didn't know they made 15,000 of them, making them the largest manufacturer of tanks in the US during WWII. Walking through an area instead of driving brings whole other sense of discovery to a place. You have to slow down and watch your step; not all sidewalks are created equal and Mother Nature does what she wants. I'd long admired beautiful homes designed in the Queen Anne style with wraparound
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porches and turrets and Berwick does not disappoint. Driving by, they are very lovely to look at but stopping an appreciating the craftsmanship and talent that went into building it takes it to another level. Taking a walk outside my normal evening spin around the block opens my eyes to new ideas and experiences. I can admire an unexpected mural or hear kids playing on the next block over. I can take time to duck into Anomaly Craft Brewing and indulge in brisket sandwich that should be savored slowly but won't be. I look up at the bell tower on the Methodist Church on Front Street and I remember seeing workers years ago at the top and thinking yet again how much I like my earth-bound career. I walk past the Jackson Mansion and look forward to June and the start of the Summer Concert Series on the lawn. I think about how Market Street transforms every year into the magnificent Berwick Christmas Boulevard and how much it was grown since I was a kid. I shiver when the cold wind sneaks past my scarf and down my back, wondering how the runners stand the cold on Thanksgiving Day's Run for the Diamonds. I suppose winning actual diamonds helps one forget about the cold for a while. I'm glad to see the Berwick Theater still in operation and better than ever, showing movies, live entertainment and more. Every January, for a least a week or so, I try to improve some aspect of my life, and for 2026 it is getting my steps in. Yeah, I could go to the gym, or stay in my neighborhood all the time. One is climate controlled and the other is just out my front door. But travel is good for everyone and I do believe it broadens the mind, even if it's right around the corner. Something new to explore does not need to be far away! You can pick up the "Walk Berwick" or any other of our brochures online or at our Welcome Center. You don't need a map to enjoy this local treasure, but it can get you started on the right foot. Walking in the cold does work up an appetite. I mentioned Tuzzi's and Dalo's but would be remiss if I didn't add Stuccio's and Scicchitano's. One of these has the perfect combination of crust and sauce and toppings and if you don't know which it is, I can't help you. You'll just have to try them all and figure it out on your own. Opinions about which is the superior pizza experience are fiercely defended around here and this writer isn't that brave. •
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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. Farms-Winter25-HalfPg._Layout 1 1/6/25 11:03 AM Page 1
www.ltevansrestaurant.com Online Ordering Available!
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
www.ponducefarms.com
@OMMANIPADMEHUMK8
Member Spotlight The Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau is proud to welcome the following businesses as recent new members to the organization!
bloomsburg comic con Bloomsurg Fairgrounds, Bloomsburg, PA 17815 greaterpaconventions.com • 570.447.5243
Join fellow fans for the debut of Bloomsburg's first Comic Convention on Saturday, May 9, 2026! Celebrating comics, collectibles, cosplay, and community in an unforgettable day of fandom fun!!
riverside adventure company 476 D & H Ave, Danville, PA 17821 riversideadventureco.com • 570.854.2437
Riverside Adventure Company offers both land and water adventures in a committment to getting people outside. They offer hourly rentals from a Kayak Kiosk at the Montour Preserve as well as guided custom river trips, overnight trips, or just single day or half day river adventures on the Susquehanna, including drop-off and pick-up shuttle services. A few examples of river trips include Bloomsburg to Danville and Danville to Sunbury. Standard trips are on class 1 (easiest) Susquehanna River waters. The trips are family friendly, safe and physically “doable” for most folks. sean black state farm insurance - bloomsburg 40 West Main Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815 insurebloomsburg.com • 570.784.5334 Welcome to our Bloomsburg location. We're happy to serve our community for Auto, Home, Life, and Renters Insurance. Free Quotes!
the farm at catawissa creek 9542 Sycamore Drive, Catawissa, PA 17820 thefarmatcatawissacreek.com • 858.254.5902
The Farm at Catawissa Creek is a stewardship-focused farm hand crafting herbal products from their soil. They host immersive events inspiring connection to nature, wellness, creativity, and heart-based presence. The Farm is also home to a flock of fine wool merino sheep, the co-creators of a high vibrational knitwear project. Specializing in herbs, herbal products, skin care, knitwear, events and retreats, workshops, holistic wellness, yoga, and more.
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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 was selected 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 present- ed Van with the Robert N. Pursel Distinguished Service Award. Outside of the classroom he educates audiences with his music and programs on Pennsylvania History. He received an Outstanding Achievement Award in 2018 from the Pennsylvania Heritage Song- writing Contest. His music has been featured on the History Channel, WVIA TV, as well as Country Music Television (CMT). He has released 35 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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