Best of the Valley - Readers' Choice Awards 2021

2021 ' s r e d a e R s d r a w A e c i o h C

Special publication of dailyitem.com Thursday, November 25, 2021 /// Best of the Valley ● 1

The Results Are In! Best Overall

BEST EMPLOYER

Evangelical Community Hospital, Lewisburg On A Roll, Northumberland Geisinger, Danville Wagging Tail Coffee Co., Allenwood Weis Markets

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

On A Roll, Northumberland Wagging Tail Coffee Co., Allenwood Jordanna Adams, Lewisburg Good Times Barbershop, Lewisburg Cole’s Hardware, Middleburg

BEST NEW BUSINESS

Wagging Tail Coffee Co., Allenwood The Breaking Bread Company, Milton Cinn-ful Treats, Milton Good Times Barbershop, Lewisburg GrindStone Coffee Shop, Northumberland

Businesses & Retailers BEER DISTRIBUTOR

Keller’s Beer, Selinsgrove Brewer’s Outlet, Sunbury The Beer Barn, Lewisburg W&S Distributors, Northumberland Knarr’s Beverage, Milton

BRIDAL SHOP

Bridals by J, Selinsgrove Bride’s Bouquet, Selinsgrove Fusion, Lewisburg Exclusively You, Bloomsburg Glamsbridal, Danville

CAR DEALERSHIP

W&L Subaru, Northumberland Aubrey Alexander Toyota, Selinsgrove Selinsgrove Ford, Selinsgrove Sunbury Motors, Sunbury Zimmerman’s Motors, Sunbury

CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

Millie’s Boutique & Jewelry Bar, Northumberland Daisylace Boutique, Lewisburg D’s Clothier, Danville Jordanna Adams, Lewisburg Retrah, Lewisburg

2 ● Best of the Valley /// Thursday, November 25, 2021

FLOORING

Garvey’s Flooring America, Northumberland Carpetman, Milton Fike Brothers Carpet One, Selinsgrove MVT Flooring, Sunbury Oberdorf’s Carpet One, Lewisburg

FLORIST

Graci’s Flowers & Gifts, Selinsgrove Graceful Blossoms, Northumberland Scott’s Floral, Danville Something Special Flower & Gift Shop, Sunbury Stein’s Flowers, Lewisburg

FURNITURE STORE

Plaza House furniture, Selinsgrove Railside Furnishings, Mifflinburg Benjamin T. Moyer Furniture, Sunbury Bader’s Fine Furniture, Shamokin Silvermoon Furniture, Lewisburg

GIFT SHOP

The Merchantile, Lewisburg Pinecone and Honey, Shamokin Dam Something Special Flower & Gift Shop, Sunbury The English Garden, Danville Graci’s Flowers & Gifts, Selinsgrove

HOME BUILDER

T-Ross Brothers CONSTRUCTION, Montandon Brookside Homes, Hummels Wharf River Valley Builders, Selinsgrove Expert Home Builders, Northumberland Fine Line Homes, Winfield

JEWELRY STORE

Foss Jewelers, Selinsgrove Black Dog Jewelers, Lewisburg Fedder’s Jewelers, Milton Island Park Jewelers, Sunbury Kay Jewelers, Selinsgrove

NURSERY & GARDEN CENTER

Reiff’s Greenhouses & Nursery, Mifflinburg Brookside Nursery, Danville Engle’s Farm & Greenhouse, Middleburg Hawk’s Landscaping, Selinsgrove Lloyd’s Landscape, Sunbury

TATTOO SHOP

Totem Tattoo, Shamokin Dam Acacia Tattoo Company, Lewisburg Body Mods, Sunbury Knuckles & Needles, Sunbury Tranquility Tattoo & Art Studio, Shamokin

The top 5 nominees in the 2021 Readers’ Choice Best of the Valley contest are shown with the winners designated in red.

Car Care Services AUTO DETAILING

Kleen Mist Car Wash, Shamokin Dam Jettpure Auto Detailing, Sunbury Knuckle Buster Customs, Riverside Showroom Shine Detailing, Milton Hoopie’s Detailing LLC, Sunbury

BODY SHOP

W&L Collision Center, Northumberland Becker Body Shop, Hummels Wharf Budman Auto Body, Milton Hawkin’s Collision, Danville Swartz Ultimate Collision, Danville

CAR WASH

Kleen Mist Car Wash, Shamokin Dam Cadillac Car Wash, Northumberland Flood Zone Car Wash, Sunbury Ultimate Express Car Wash, Hummels Wharf University Car Wash, Lewisburg

MECHANIC

Sunbury Motor Company, Sunbury Bastian Tire & Auto, Shamokin Dam Jake’s Auto Care, Milton Brubaker’s Auto Repair, Selinsgrove Weaver Tire Service, Northumberland

QUICK AUTO SERVICE

quick lane at selinsgrove FORD, Selinsgrove Firestone, Sunbury Bastian Tire & Auto, Shamokin Dam Steve Shannon Tire & Auto, Danville Quick Lane at Sunbury Motors, Sunbury

TIRE SHOP

Weaver’s Tire Service, Northumberland Bastian Tire & Auto, Shamokin Dam Kost Tire, Lewisburg Jack Williams Tire & Auto, Lewisburg Steve Shannon Tire & Auto, Danville

Entertainment & Recreation CAMPGROUND

Knoebel’s Campground, Elysburg Hidden Valley Camping Resort, Mifflinburg Little Mexico Campground, Winfield Splash Magic Campgound, Northumberland Yogi at Shangri-La, Milton

GOLF COURSE

Shade Mountain Golf Course, Middleburg Bucknell University Golf Course, Lewisburg Wynding Brook Golf Club, Milton Sunny Hills Golf Course, Sunbury Susquehanna Valley Country Club, Hummels Wharf

Food & Dining ASIAN CUISINE

Fuji Steakhouse, Lewisburg Asian Express, Sunbury John’s Asian Cuisine, Danville Sushi Masa, Selinsgrove Siam Restaurant & Bar, Lewisburg

BREAKFAST

Gram’s Eatery, Lewisburg Goodwill’s Restaurant, Montandon Jay’s Tiffany, Sunbury D&D Family Restaurant, Watsontown The Pepper Tree, Selinsgrove

BURGER

Old Forge Brewing Company, Danville Brendan’s Towne Tavern, Lewisburg The Breaking Bread Company, Milton Brewser’s Sports Grille, Coal Township Matty’s Sporthouse Grill, Lewisburg

FINE DINING

Penn’s Tavern, Sunbury Elizabeth’s American Bistro, Lewisburg Ghezzi’s, Paxinos Isabella’s Restaurant & Lounge, Selinsgrove La Primavera Italiano Ristorante, Lewisburg

HOAGIE/SUBS

On A Roll, Northumberland Amato’s Pizza & Family Restaurant, Northumberland Marlin’s Sub Shop, Sunbury Sunbury Sub Shop, Sunbury Dor-Day’s Sub Shop, Lewisburg

HOME COOKING

Gram’s Eatery, Lewisburg County Line Restaurant, Richfield El Rancho, Northumberland The Pepper Tree, Selinsgrove D&D Family Restaurant, Watsontown

iCE CREAM

The Purple Cow, Lewisburg Becky’s Soft Serve, Milton Heff & Beeb’s, Northumberland Weaver’s Ice Cream, Allenwood Country Creamery, Kratzerville

ITALIAN CUISINE

EYE CARE

PIZZA

HEARING CENTER

SPORTS BAR

HOSPITAL

STEAKHOUSE

MASSAGE THERAPY

WINGS

NAIL SALON

La Primavera, Lewisburg Amato’s Pizza & Family Restaurant, Northumberland Ciro’s Italian Restaurant, Watsontown Isabella’s Restaurant & Lounge, Selinsgrove Amato’s, Selinsgrove Amato’s Pizza & Family Restaurant, Northumberland Weaver’s Pizza, Allenwood Giugi’s, Sunbury OIP, Sunbury La Casa De Pizza, Lewisburg Matty’s Sportshouse Grill, Lewisburg Brendan’s Towne Tavern, Lewisburg Brewser’s Sports Grille, Coal Township Scoreboard Sports Tavern, Bloomsburg Bot’s Tavern, Selinsgrove Texas Roadhouse, Selinsgrove BJ’s M Street Tavern & Oyster Bar, Selinsgrove Hoss’s Steakhouse, Shamokin Dam Longhorn Steakhouse, Shamokin Dam Matty’s Sportshouse Grill, Lewisburg The Den, Sunbury Matty’s Sporthouse Grill, Lewisburg Bull Run Tap House, Lewisburg Mansion House, Watsontown Front Street Station, Northumberland

Health, Beauty & Wellness Services BEAUTY & HAIR SALON

Untangled Salon INC., Northumberland Good Times Barbershop, Lewisburg Brick House Hair, New Columbia Color Addiction Salon, Danville Distinctive Hair Designs, Selinsgrove

CHIROPRACTIC

Advanced Care Chiropractic, Lewisburg Freeburg Family Chiropractic, Freeburg Boyer Chiropractic, Northumberland Shamokin Dam Health Center, Shamokin Dam Sunbury Chiropractic Center, Sunbury

DENTIST

Dental Care Associates, Selinsgrove Dr. Ralph Cianflone, Northumberland Dental Health Associates, Milton Selinsgrove Dental Arts, Selinsgrove Rinehart, Marr, Murdock Dental, Northumberland

Eye Center of Central PA Eyeland Optical, Shamokin Dam Lipski Eye Center, Lewisburg Orren Eye Associates, Northumberland Hess Family Eye Care, Middleburg Susq. Valley Hearing Professionals, Lewisburg Advanced Tech Hearing Aid Center, Lewisburg NuEar Hearing Center, Pottsville Miracle Ear, Shamokin Dam Northumberland Hearing Center, Northumberland Evangelical Community Hospital, Lewisburg Geisinger, Danville Geisinger, Shamokin UPMC, Muncy UPMC Susquehanna, Williamsport Advanced Skin Care Spa & Salon, Lewisburg Gina’s Massage Therapy, Northumberland Venus Day Spa, Bloomsburg Shamokin Dam Health Center, Shamokin Dam Magic Relaxation, Selinsgrove Advanced Skin Care Spa & Salon, Lewisburg Sun Nails, Lewisburg VIP Nails and Spa, Selinsgrove Star Nails, Lewisburg Tony’s Nails, Selinsgrove

ORTHDONTIST

Albert M. Stush, Ortho, Lewisburg Dr. John Brady, Spark Orthodontics, Danville Dental Care Associates, Selinsgrove Susquehanna Orthodontics, Selinsgrove Smiles by Wilson, Dr. David Wilson, Hummels Wharf

PERMANENT COSMETICS

Beyond Brows Permanent Cosmetics, Lewisburg, Permanent Cosmetic by Tina Persing, Sunbury Beauty Impressions Studio, Selinsgrove M&E Beauty, Danville Susq. Valley Permanent Cosmetics, Selinsgrove

PHYSICAL THERAPY/REHAB

Physical Therapy of Evangelical, Lewisburg Carr Physical Therapy, Northumberland Keystone Physical Therapy, Watsontown Phoenix Rehabilitation, Selinsgrove Pivot Physical Therapy, Lewisburg

Top 5 List continues on page 4 Thursday, November 25, 2021 /// Best of the Valley ● 3

PHYSICIAN

Dr. James Patterson, Evangelical Community Hospital, Lewisburg Jessica Pagana-DeFazio, Family Practice, Selinsgrove Dr. Sandra Charles, Family Practice, Lewisburg Dr. Pedro Servano, Geisinger, Selinsgrove Dr. Charles C. Pagana, Family Practice, Selisngrove

Places for Drinks BAR/TAVERN

Penn’s Tavern, Sunbury Bull Run Tap House, Lewisburg Brendan’s Towne Tavern, Lewisburg Speedy’s, Milton Bot’s Tavern, Selinsgrove

BREWPUB

Rusty Rail Brewing Company, Mifflinburg Jackass Brewing Company, Lewisburg Old Forge Brewing Company, Danville Pineknotter Brewing Company, Northumberland Selin’s Grove Brewing Company, Selinsgrove

COFFEE SHOP

Wagging Tail Coffee Co., Allenwood Bason Coffee Roasting, Danville Eagles Wind Coffee Shop, Shamokin Dam Kind Cafe’, Selinsgrove Grindstone Coffee Shop, Northumberland

WINERY

Shade Mountain Winery, Middleburg Fero Vineyards & Winery, Lewisburg Union Cellars, Lewisburg Spyglass Ridge Winery, Sunbury Whispering Oaks, Sunbury

Professional Services ATTORNEY

Tony Michetti, Diehl Dluge Michetti & Michetti, Sunbury Brian Kerstetter, Law Office, Lewisburg Matt Slivinski, Slivinski Law Firm, Seilnsgrove Graham C. Showalter, Lewisburg Joel Wiest, Wiest, Wiest-Benner & Rice, Sunbury

BANK/CREDIT UNION

Service 1st Federal Credit Union, Danville First National Bank, Sunbury Fulton Bank, Shamokin Dam Northumberland National Bank, Northumberland Mifflinburg Bank and Trust, Mifflinburg

CHILDCARE

YMCA, Sunbury Wee Ones Childcare, Watsontown Busy Little Beavers, Danville Summit Early Learning, Mifflinburg Noah’s Ark Daycare, Milton 4 ● Best of the Valley /// Thursday, November 25, 2021

COMMERCIAL CONTRACTOR

PET GROOMING

T-Ross Brothers Construction, Montandon HEPCO Construction, Selinsgrove Paul Q. Ross Construction, Sunbury Gray Builders, Danville Zartman Construction, Northumberland

Paw’s Inn, Selinsgrove Bark & Park, Freeburg Warrior Run Pet Care, Watsontown Brookpark Pet, Lewisburg Sudol’s Boarding & Grooming Kennels, Watsontown

ELECTRICIAN

PHOTOGRAPHER

FINANCIAL PLANNING SERVICES

PRIVATE/RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR

Thomas Edison Electric Inc., Lewisburg Gass Electric, Sunbury Kreco Electric, Inc., Coal Township K&N Electric, Sunbury SRS Electric, Hummels Wharf Service 1st Retirement & Investment Center, Danville Starr Financial Services, Winfield Laura Shrawder Financial Services, Sunbury Edward Jones, Chuck Straub, Hummels Wharf Thrivent Financial, Selinsgrove

HOME HEATING/AC

SJ Eaton Plumbing & Heating, Selinsgrove Comfort Specialists, Selinsgrove McCreary’s HVAC, Sunbury Mull’s Mechanical, Northumberland JET Residential Services, Shamokin Dam

INSURANCE AGENCY

State Farm, Selinsgrove Coup Agency, Milton Groninger Insurance, Northumberland Lawton Insurance, Mifflinburg Sholley Agency, Lewisburg

INSURANCE AGENT

Chris Kenawell, State Farm, Selinsgrove Chris Reis, State Farm, Sunbury Kim Holohan, A.S.K. Insurance, Elysburg Matt Frye, State Farm, Milton Karen Bottorf, State Farm, Watsontown

LANDSCAPE SERVICE

Creative Plantscapes, Northumberland Brookside Nursery, Danville Hawk’s Landscape, Selinsgrove Lloyd’s Landscapes, Sunbury Shaffer’s Landscaping, Middleburg

PET BOARDING

Paws Inn, Selinsgrove Warrior Run Pet Care, Watsontown D & J Pet Lodge, Mt. Pleasant Mills Sudol’s Boarding & Grooming Kennels, Watsontown Sunbury Animal Hospital, Sunbury

Tony Bendele, Sunbury Ashley Rawlings Photography, Middleburg Schindler’s Studio, Sunbury Lewisburg Studio, Lewisburg Tara Lerch Photography, Port Trevorton T-Ross Brothers Construction, Montandon Tate Home Improvements, Middleburg Tom Mowrey Home Werks, Northumberland Cam Shaffer Carpentry, Middleburg My Favorite Handyman Inc., Northumberland

REAL ESTATE AGENT

Aimee Buehner, Bowen Agency, Sunbury Melissa Laniewski, Bowen Agency, Selinsgrove Doug Wertz, Coldwell Banker, Lewisburg Kristine Horten, Bowen Agency, Selinsgrove Helen Martin, ReMax River Valley Realty, Northumberland

REAL ESTATE AGENCY

Bowen Agency, Lewisburg EXP Realty, Selinsgrove Coldwell Banker Penn One Real Estate, Lewisburg ReMax Bridges, Lewisburg Villager Realty, Lewisburg

SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

Nottingham Village, Northumberland Buffalo Valley Lutheran Village, Lewisburg Brookdale Grayson View, Selinsgrove Vintage Knolls, Danville RiverWoods, Lewisburg

TRAVEL AGENCY

Liberty Travel, Hummels Wharf AAA, Sunbury Travel Leader of Lewisburg Boscov’s Travel, Selinsgrove Miller Travel, Middleburg

VETERINARIAN

Lewisburg Veterinary Hospital, Lewisburg Animal Care Center, Danville Companion Animal Hospital, Selinsgrove Susquehanna Trail Animal Hospital, Watsontown Sunbury Animal Hospital, Sunbury

WEDDING VENUE

Stone Barn Farm & Vineyard, Selinsgrove Spyglass Ridge Winery, Sunbury Barn Appetit, Milton Rusty Rail Brewing Company, Mifflinburg Whispering Oaks Vineyard, Sunbury

&RQJUDWXODWLRQV WR (YDQJHOLFDOȇV SURYLGHUV VWD΍ DQG volunteers for earning multiple Best of the Valley Awards!

Best Hospital Best Employer Best Physical Therapy Best Physician: James Patterson, MD

Thursday, November 25, 2021 /// Best of the Valley ● 5

“come as you are” kinda place German inspired meals - Weiner Schnitzel, Jager Schnitzel and Chicken Wilhelm as well.

“Virtually everything we serve starts from scratch including all of our dressings,” explained Tom. “All of our employees respect each other and the customers can sense they will do anything to make their time at Penn’s Tavern memorable,” he said.

Liz handles all of the social media for the Tavern and “does a phenomenal job making people aware of what is going on,” said Tom. There are 29 employees at Penns Tavern, including Hayley Zulouf the front of the house manager; Kent Filosa, head chef and back of the house manager, and Mindy Deppen the events coordinator.

“We converted the back dining room into a River pub that has 11 craft beer taps,” said Tom. “Whether you choose to dine in our historic 1700’s Room, our Microbrew River Pub, or on our expansive deck,” Penns Tavern promises a memorable dining experience.

Penns Tavern is located at 113 River Road, Route 147 Sunbury. For more information visit www.pennstavern.com or find them on FB. “We are very grateful to every one who voted us as Best Fine Dining and Best Bar and Tavern,” said Tom.

Some of the 29 members of the staff at Penns Tavern

A historical, waterfront restaurant, located on the beautiful Susquehanna River, just south of Sunbury.

By jerrilyn brouse, For The Daily Item

SUNBURY - Tom and Liz Mertz knew they had something special when they opened Penns Tavern in June of 2016.

“The Tavern is situated on the Susquehanna River and was built in the upper 1700’s,” explained Tom. “The property itself is very inviting.”

Tom Mertz explained that Penns Tavern is a “come as you are” kinda place, and people like that.

“Many people come in from the river in their shorts and t-shirt and sit with their favorite beverage and watch the river go by,” said Tom. Penns Tavern is also a popular spot because guests can bring along their furry companions to eat outside and they offer entertainment outside during weather permitting months.

But it’s the employees (the people who make it run), and the diverse menu, that make the business thrive and has helped make it the readers Best Fine Dining and Best Bar and Tavern in the 2021 Daily Item’s Best of the Valley contest.

“Our menu is very diverse that appeals to most people,” he said. “You can order something as simple as an 8 oz local black angus burger to our one of our German inspired entrees and everything in between.”

On the menu you can find everything from salads (Cobb, Caesar and Spinach are just a few), appetizers like hog wings, blistered Brussel sprouts, seafood nachos, spinach dip or a shrimp cocktail. Entrees can be as simple as a burger (a nice variety is offered), a BLT or fish tacos, or as elaborate as a prime rib, seafood pasta or lobster ravioli. There is also a selection of 6 ● Best of the Valley /// Thursday, November 25, 2021

THANK YOU

to everyone who voted us your favorite “FINE DINING” establishment and best “BAR/TAVERN” in the area 113 River Road, Route 147, Sunbury, PA 17801

570-286-2007

Hours: Tues. - Sat. 11:00-8:00, Sun. 11:00-3:00

Thank you to everyone who voted us Best of the Valley for Permanent Cosmetics!

Front center Marlana Lenker - Owner/PMU Artist Beyond Brows Back row left to right Brina Senick PMU Artist (Beauty & Skincare by Brina Senick) Denise Debo PMU Artist, (Skin Allure by Denise) Abbie Hill PMU Artist (Microblading by Abbie)

"When I started Beyond Brows Permanent Cosmetics, I had a personal mission to make a positive impact on the lives of anyone that I worked with. As my business has grown and the team has expanded, that mission still has not changed."

- Marlana Lenker, Owner of Beyond Brows Permanent Cosmetics

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Thursday, November 25, 2021 /// Best of the Valley ● 7

unique and trendy, fashion forward clothes By jerrilyn brouse, For The Daily Item

NORTHUMBERLAND - At a time when many stores are closing up shop and moving to an online, digital storefront and shoppers are looking for quick, easy access to clothing, shoes and even groceries, it’s easy to understand why some people are hesitant to open a small brick and mortar business. But despite the convenience of online shopping, some people just prefer shopping in person. They like to see and touch what they’re buying before opening their wallets. It’s those types of customers that help small businesses like Millie Boutique and Jewelry Bar not just stay afloat, but thrive.

Crystal Reed was thrilled when she heard Millie Boutique and Jewelry Bar was named best boutique in the Best of the Valley 2021 contest.

“We are so incredibly honored to have been chosen as Best Boutique in the Valley three years in a row,” she said. “We are so moved and our hearts are so full. We have the best customers and are grateful for every single one of them. They make what we do amazing.”

Reed and her husband and purchased the downtown building without any idea of what they were going to do with it.

“We had no purpose for the structure,” said Reed. “We eventually opened ‘On a Roll,’ and a year later our daughter, Lindsay Blyth, opened the Millie Boutique to bring an affordable boutique to the area.”

millie boutique & jewelry bar Trendy ~ Chic ~ High Fashion

Thank you for your kindness in voting us Best Boutique in the Valley. We appreciate you and your business.

Reed is involved in the boutique on a day to day basis but the overall operation is a family thing. Reed works closely with her daughter, Lindsay, and daughter in law, Lindsay Reed, who collaborate on many aspects of the boutique.

Tue-Wed 11-5 Thurs-Fri 11-5:30 Sat 10-4

“Because we are all a different age, we come together to choose what we like, which allows us to carry a unique blend of clothing and accessories to fit all age groups,” explained Reed. “It truly is a family affair.”

94 Queen Street, Northumberland

570-701-1256

www.milliejean.com www.facebook.com/millieinnorry Like us on

Follow us on

“Unique and Trendy clothing that doesn’t cost a fortune” 8 ● Best of the Valley /// Thursday, November 25, 2021

Reed said her daughter wanted to give customers a place to buy unique and trendy, fashion forward clothes that you don’t get at a chain store.

“Think high fashion without high prices,” she said. “We pride ourselves for continuing to bring the area great pieces for a great price.”

Shoppers at Millie Boutique and Jewelry Bar will be pleasantly surprised

to find that almost all items are under $50 (and most are under $40). The store offers a great selection of jewelry, purses, accessories and gifts to make shopping easy.

“Our clothing and accessories only look expensive but are actually very affordable,” said Reed.”

In fact, their motto is “You Don’t have to spend a fortune to look great.”

If you can’t find your way to the actual store, you can see what all Millie Boutique has to offer with a few clicks of a button.

“We use social media to promote items daily and we also offer online shopping on our website,” said Reed. “We provide free local delivery and shipping services.”

Millie Boutique and Jewelry Bar is located at 94 Queen St., Northumberland. For more information, go to www.milliejean. com or check them out on Facebook.

“Thank you for voting me the BEST ATTORNEY in the area.”

Antonio Michetti 1070 Market Street, Sunbury 570-286-9999 www.ddmmlaw.com

1430663958

“Thank you for this recognition, I am honored by the readers' vote of confidence, but the credit truly belongs to our incredible staff: Teresa Dobson, Elaine Kaup, Marisa Miglas and Kenzie Lytle.

I consider myself very fortunate to have them on our team."

Thursday, November 25, 2021 /// Best of the Valley ● 9

delicious burger creations his customers love This insures the restaurant uses high quality beef, “raised six miles from our kitchen, with no hormones or additives, sustainably and ethically raised and cared for, and I think when you put it all together you can taste the difference.”

Of course, the ingredients are important, but without a good chef, they’d be no good. Fortunately, Malfara doesn’t have that problem.

“Our chef and culinary team have put together a great menu and they put a lot of attention and focus on quality,” he said.

In addition to a good burger, the toppings are, of course, what makes each one unique. Some of the burger specials that have been offered at the Old Forge include the Tommy Boy Burger (gorgonzola cheese, tomato relish, balsamic glaze, greens and bacon), the Hawaiian burger (with grilled pineapple, teriyaki glaze, lettuce and onion), a Southwestern Black Bean Burger (chipotle sauce, pickled onion, tomato, and cilantro) and many others.

While nowadays, it is so easy and convenient to purchase generic products from big-box stores, Malfara strives to appreciate the uniqueness and2021 quality of a hand-crafted product.

Best Burger ad_Layout 1 11/9/21 3:10 PM Page 1 The businesses website boasts, “At Old Forge Brewing Company, we strive to honor personal craftsmanship. Our hand-crafted beer is made in small batches to ensure quality and peak freshness, while the delicious

THE PLACE TO

ENJOY TIME

WITH FRIENDS Executive Chef, Chris Southwick By jerrilyn brouse, For The Daily Item

DANVILLE - When Damien Malfara opened Old Forge Brewing Company in December of 2008, he started with a basic principle - “Supporting local business is our thing.” It’s likely because of the quality ingredients they buy from local farms and markets the restaurant was voted best burger in the 2021 Best of the Valley competition.

Old Forge Brewing Company is a small brewpub and restaurant that operates a scratch kitchen with a full menu and beer that is brewed on site.

“We are focusing on keeping it local, sourcing as much as we can locally,” said Malfara.

It’s the locally sourced beef, in fact, that Malfara believes gets the credit for the delicious burger creations his customers love.

“All of our beef comes locally from Tworkoski Farms in Danville,” said Mafara. “The farmer, Brian Tworkoski, takes our spent grain from the brewing process and feeds it to his cattle, and we get the beef to serve in the restaurant.”

10 ● Best of the Valley /// Thursday, November 25, 2021

Voted Best Burger in the Valley!

All from locally raised beef.

16 BEERS ON TAP 2 on the Hand Pumps

Smooth • Crisp • Dark • Rich Malty • Creamy • Hoppy Hazy • Light • Unique!

Lunch, Dinner & Apps STOP IN TODAY!

OLDFORGEBREWINGCOMPANY.COM

532 Mill Street • Danville, PA • 570.275.8151

menu has ingredients sourced from local farms and markets wherever possible.”

They urge customers to take note of not just the food and beer, but the atmosphere in which they’re enjoying them. The bar, booths, tables, and fixtures were all handcrafted by local wood/metal workers, as well as the unique tap handles, plates, bowls, sample trays and beer mugs, which are all also hand-made by local potters and artisans.

The approximate 35 employees at Old Forge includes Jace Rovenolt, general manager; Chris Southwick, executive chef and Darren Stonecypher, head brewer.

Stop by and visit Old Forge Brewing Company at 532 Mill Street, in downtown Danville, or find out more by checking them out at www.oldforgebrewingcompany. com or find them on Facebook.

Southwestern Black Bean Burger with a chipotle sauce, pickled onion, tomato, and cilantro

Thank You for choosing

The Eye Center For all of your eye care needs!

Reader’s Choice for Best Eye Care

Thank You for voting for us!

1-866-995-EYES www.EyeCenterofPA.com

Allenwood • Bellefonte • Danville • Downtown Lewisburg • Lewisburg • Middleburg • Mifflinburg • Muncy • Northumberland • Paxinos • Shamokin Dam • Williamsport Thursday, November 25, 2021 /// Best of the Valley ● 11

making houses feel like homes for almost 70 years

in our Best of the Valley competition of 2021.

By jerrilyn brouse, For The Daily Item

SELINSGROVE - Furniture - it’s a staple pretty much anywhere you go.

Without it, we’d have no place to sit while working at our desks (or desks to work at), no couch to snuggle up on, no table to serve dinner and no beds to sleep in. There are so many needs to fill, and Plaza House Furniture is the place to go if you’re looking to find a wide variety, huge selection and everything you need for your home or office.

That’s likely why our readers chose Plaza House as the best furniture store

THANK YOU

Thank You for Voting Us the #1 Dentist in the Area, 6 Years in a Row. General Dentistry Periodontics Orthodontics (Braces)

1430663983

Dental Care Associates Call Today To Schedule 570-374-2424 Your www.dcadental.com Appointment 2 Atrium Court • Hummels Wharf RQ WKH 2OG 7UDLO EHKLQG &RXUW\DUG 2IƓFHV

1430663943

BEST: Home Heating/AC Best of the Valley 2021

12 ● Best of the Valley /// Thursday, November 25, 2021

The store, which employs 25, also services everything it sells, he said.

Total Family Dental Care in One Convenient Location!

for Voting for us!

570-374-0652 www.sjeaton.com

Plaza House first opened its doors in1952, but was originally a farmer’s market. A quick eight years later, that market evolved into a department store that sold everything from hardware and household items to furniture and clothing. Eventually, though, in 1978, the Hoot family decided to focus on furniture exclusively.

According to Eric Hoot, who runs the business with his brother, Todd, Plaza House was likely chosen because “We have he largest display floor in the area and carry a large in stock inventory for immediate delivery.”

Stephanie Varljen, DDS, Ph.D Jenny Sherpa, DDS Marvin Berger, DDS, Periodontist Donald D. Dinello, DMD Kaitlyn Lotti, DDS

“We have been doing it for nearly 70 years.”

Value plays an important role in the success of the business, too.

“We are selling name brand furniture, bedding and accessories for every room in the home at price points to fit any budget,” he said. “And we are constantly adding quality manufactures.”

The selection at Plaza House includes, but is not limited to, bedroom sets and media/entertainment centers, recliners, bedroom suites, bedding, sectionals, tables, chairs, buffets. Looking to outfit your game room? Look no further - here you will even find pool tables. If it’s your office you need to outfit, they carry a selection of desks, chairs and bookcases, too.

Today, Plaza House is one of the largest independent furniture retailers in North Central Pennsylvania, with showrooms in Selinsgrove and Bloomsburg. For more information or to view the selection of furniture available at Plaza House, visit them in person or check them out at www. plazahouse.com or find them on Facebook.

Thank you for voting us the Best Furniture Store in the Valley.

SELINSGROVE

The Plaza Shopping Center 9V\[LZ ࠮ 6WLU! 4VU ;O\YZ -YP :H[ Closed Sunday

BLOOMSBURG

The Bloomsburg/Berwick Hwy.

www.plazahouse.com

1430663878

6WLU! 4VU ;O\YZ -YP :H[ Closed Sunday

Thursday, November 25, 2021 /// Best of the Valley ● 13

1372 N Susquehanna Trail Selinsgrove PA 17870 570-743-2165

159 S 2nd St 836 Market St. Sunbury PA 17801 Lewisburg PA 17837 570-286-8594 570-523-2165

Thanks! for voting us your Favorite Real Estate Brokerage in the Susquehanna Valley SIX years in a row!

Larry Johnson, Broker

Matt Hoffman, Broker

We again want to thank everyone in the Susquehanna Valley for their business, and for having confidence in us year after year. We appreciate being selected Best of the Valley! — Your friends at Bowen Agency Realtors

Thanks!

I am humbled by the honor to be voted Best of the Valley again. It gives me such pleasure to work in this Valley, with and for great folks like you, toward homeownership and pride in our communities. Your support for multiple years has continued to prove to me that I am still on the right path to help make the right things happen for you and our Valley. So a HUGE Thanks to everyone who voted--and remember, “At the very least, you can ALWAYS continue to expect my very best.”

-Aimee Buehner 14 ● Best of the Valley /// Thursday, November 25, 2021

Aimee Buehner, Associate Broker

fun and fulfilling shopping experience By jerrilyn brouse, For The Daily Item

SELINSGROVE - If you’ve ever gone shopping for a wedding gown, chances are you’ve found your way to Bridals by J, a small, locally owned business that sits along the main street in the quaint little town of Selinsgrove.

Bridals by J has been around for decades, but it’s most recent owner, Pamela Carper, purchased the business herself in 1999.

“It was previously owned by Janice Knauss, which is where the ‘J’ comes in,’ joked Carper.

Carper said she noticed the shop/ business was being sold and out of curiosity, went to check it out. At the time, a buyer had already been lined up, though, so she thought she was out of luck.

“That fell through, though,” she said.

And the rest, as they say, is history.

Since then, Carper has worked hard to provide her customers with a generous variety of designers and options and a fun and fulfilling shopping experience. This, she said, is why readers likely chose Bridals by J as the best bridal shop in the 2021 Best of the Valley competition.

life, being a part of that is really special,” said Carper.

In addition to selling bridal and prom/homecoming dresses, the shop offers suits and tuxedos as well as shoes, veils, belts and other accessories.

And while many brides shop early and wait months for their gowns to come in, Carper said those who are under a time crunch have options in her store, too.

SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

“I think we were chosen, more or less, because of the service we provide,” said Carper. “We are very down to earth, our atmosphere is comfortable, and there is something for everybody.”

Though Bridals by J boasts a wide selection of designers, the shop does highlight it’s collection by Morilee by Madeline Gardner.

“She has a great line not just for brides, but also for mothers, bridesmaids and junior bridesmaids,” she said. “There are a lot of different styles and something will fit everyone.”

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Some of the lines included under Morilee include the white dress line, destination wedding line, and a traditional line. She also carries gowns by Da Vinci, House of Wu and Kenneth Winston.

In addition to bridal gowns, Bridals by J carries a large inventory of prom, homecoming and formal gowns from formal wear designers including Scala, Blush, Flair New York, Faviana , Jolene, Tiffani, Panoply by House of Wu, Morilee, Mac Duggal, Angela and Alison, Lucci Lu, Abby Paris by Lucci Lu, Sparkle by Davinci and more.

Of course, Carper also credits help from her two part time employees with her successful small business and said they love helping customers find exactly what they are looking for to celebrate one of life’s milestones “Sharing this experience, the happiness as they take this big step in their

Thank you to all of our friends, patients, and supporters for voting us BEST in the Valley for 4 years in a row!

Thursday, November 25, 2021 /// Best of the Valley ● 15

knowledgable staff is why customers always come back By jerrilyn brouse, For The Daily Item

MIFFLINBURG - Whether you’re planting a garden full of vegetables or searching for hanging baskets for your front porch, you can find it at Reiff’s Nursery and Greenhouse. It’s the large selection and variety of plants that Harvey Reiff believes is the reason his nursery and garden center was voted as best of the valley by our readers.

“We try to stick with a better genetic variety of plants, proven winners,” said Harvey Reiff. “And we can offer a second variety of something for when garden performance is not quite as good depending on the weather, so that seems to help a lot too.”

Harvey opened the business in 1989 with his wife, Ella Mae, originally as a vegetable plug production facility for local farmers and large nearby operations and shipping plants to New

York, New Jersey, Ohio and Delaware.

Noticing unused space above vegetable crops prompted the couple to begin hanging basket production. As the area grew, so did Reiff’s. They then began to grow annuals and more went into production, all being sold on a wholesale basis. Due to “the endless pressure for quality plants and better selection locally,” Reiff’s Greenhouse retail was born in 1994.

In the following years, they went on to add perennial production, herbs, planters, house plants, tropical plants, and finally trees & shrubs. The nursery business became a major part of the operation and as successful years passed Reiff’s Greenhouse transformed into Reiff’s Nursery in 2007.

As the business grew, so did their family.

All of the couple’s children helped work the

�������� � Stone Barn Ella Mae Reiff waters plants

A perfect start to your new beginning stonebarnweddings.com Thanks to all for a Great 2021 Cheers!

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16 ● Best of the Valley /// Thursday, November 25, 2021

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business, and Harvey expects two of his sons will someday take over as owners and, he hopes, his grandchildren will want to work there too.

“At one time everything was run entirely by family, but now we have probably 60% are hired employees and 40% family,” he said.

Though they currently employ eight people, he expects as the business continues to grow, so will his staff.

“In the last four years, we’ve seen 40% of growth,” said Harvey.

In addition to his selection (which, he noted, includes many unique plants), Harvey believes his knowledgable staff is why his customers always come back.

“We are a full garden center, we are’t a hit and run,” he said. Reiff’s is open year round and in addition to offering a variety of products and services to care for your lawn, garden and plants, employees at Reiff’s educate people on their services and products as well.

For example, said Harvey, “We sell pond supplies, so we will offer some knowledge on how to use them.”

With the patronage of their loyal customers, their commitment to superior service, and their great staff of family and friends, the Reiff’s will continue to offer their customers the largest selection of plants at the best prices.

Reiff’s Nursery and Garden Center is located at 466 Strickler Road, Mifflinburg. For more information, visit their website at www.reiffnursery.com or find them on Facebook.

Harvey Reiff works on an evergreen arrangement in the greenhouse

Thank you for your kindness and support for voting us

“The Best in the Valley!”

The family and staff at Foss Jewelers Selinsgrove

888 Rt 522 Selinsgrove 570-374-4790 fossjewelers.com

The family and staff at Foss Jewelers Selinsgrove

888 Rt 522 Selinsgrove 570-374-4790 fossjewelers.com

Life’s Memories Start Here 3rd Generation Jewelers Since 1949!

Life’s Memories Start Here 3rd Generation Jewelers Since 1949!

Thursday, November 25, 2021 /// Best of the Valley ● 17

Congratulation�!

2021 to the Winners of our prize drawing:

Actual product may vary from photos.

Dani Roan

Brittany Gardner

Kristen Kratzer

You’ve Won a Ring Video Doorbell Pro

You’ve Won Bose SoundLink Wireless Headphones

You’ve Won an Ultimate EARS BOOM2 Portable Bluetooth Wireless Speaker

of Montgomery

of Bloomsburg

Than� Yo�

for participating in the Best of the Valley!

18 ● Best of the Valley /// Thursday, November 25, 2021

of Middleburg

dailyitem.com

Thursday, November 25, 2021 /// Best of the Valley ● 19

A small breakfast place that also “offers a little lunch” By jerrilyn brouse, For The Daily Item

LEWISBURG - Jesse Reeves has been cooking for as long as he can remember - his first job, in fact, was working for an Italian restaurant at age 14. He’s just always loved cooking. That love of creating delicious meals for others is what led Jesse and his wife, Vanessa, to open three restaurants in our area. The Reeves own Gram’s and Gram’s Express in Lewisburg as well as Gramps in Bloomsburg.

Jesse’s dedication to make meals that use the freshest of ingredients is likely what led readers to vote Gram’s as the best spot for home cooking and best breakfast in the 2021 Best of the Valley competition.

Having opened their doors in 2018, Jesse said deciding to become a business owner sort of “happened over night.”

“A friend told us about the space opening it was formerly Cherry Alley Cafe,” said Jesse.

“The building went up for lease, so I went down

and looked at the space and just jumped in.”

In the past, Jesse had worked locally at the Victoria House (which has since closed its doors) and ran a taco truck with a friend, traveling to festivals and events.

When the Reeves first opened their doors, they planned on it filling a niche - they wanted a small breakfast place that also “offered a little lunch.”

“As a chef I always wanted to have my own place, so we decided to give it a shot,” said Jesse. “I was confident that if we cooked good food and had good service we’d be all right.”

What he didn’t expect was to watch the business “literally explode.”

“I never expected it to take off like it did,” said Jesse. “We are a small building with a large crowd - we love that it’s off the beaten path and we don’t really have to do any advertising at all.

Word out mouth got out and things went from there.”

Thank you to all our valued customers for voting us # 1

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Like Us on Facebook 20 ● Best of the Valley /// Thursday, November 25, 2021

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Originally from the Scranton area, the Reeves have lived in Lewisburg for 14 years and are the parents of three boys. Jesse said he decided to open the restaurant because he grew tired of corporate life and traveling, noting it wasn’t conducive to family life.

Guests who visit Gram’s are treated to a full menu that includes all made from scratch meals - true home cooking. Some of their more popular dishes include eggs Benedict, huevos rancheros, healthy green bowls, avacado toast and protein pancakes. They also have smoothies, coffees, speciality drinks (like espresso and milkshakes).

“We have a pretty good variety of everything,” said Jesse. “We also offer

more traditional selections like French toast and omelets.”

One of their biggest sellers, though, are tacos. Though open 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. Tuesdays only (8 a.m. to 2:30 on Sundays and other days) Gram’s makes it worth your while. They offer a wide variety of tacos - from Korean, Latin, Asian and Southwestern are just a few options. There are always specials being offered (and they make their own salsa, too).

Jesse said the business draws a good mix of a brunch crowd (weekend brunches are crazy, he noted) but they also do a decent lunch business.

That menu includes everything from burgers to paninis, salads and more.

THANK-YOU

to all our valued customers and friends for voting us the

“Best Mechanic”

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in the Valley.

943 North 4th Street, Sunbury, PA 570-286-7746 | www.sunburymotors.com Thursday, November 25, 2021 /// Best of the Valley ● 21

THANK YOU for Voting for us!

BEST: Quick Auto Service Best of the Valley 2021

10 North Susquehanna Trail • Selinsgrove, PA 17870 7:30-5 Mon, Tues, and Thurs.

7:30 - 4 Weds & Fri. • 8 - 12 Sat. Call to schedule services • 570-374-8131 22 ● Best of the Valley /// Thursday, November 25, 2021

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Quick Lane at Selinsgrove Ford

Proud to be voted the Susquehanna Valley’s Best Hearing & Audiology Professionals.

Thank You!

2824 Old Turnpike Rd, Lewisburg, PA 17837

570.524.3277

Thursday, November 25, 2021 /// Best of the Valley ● 23

2021 Thank you for voting Service 1st Best Bank/Credit Union & Best Financial Planning Services in the Valley!

To learn more, call us at 800.562.6049 or visit us online at www.service1.org.

Service 1st has locations in: Bloomsburg • Danville • Elysburg • Lewisburg Loyalsock • Mifflinburg • Montandon • Shamokin Dam • Sunbury • Wilkes-Barre Equal Housing Lender

24 ● Best of the Valley /// Thursday, November 25, 2021

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