December Town&Gown 2017

Town&Gown DECEMBER 2017

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TOWNANDGOWN.COM

Sweet Endings Our favorite lively libations and desserts for the holidays

Inside: Drones taking flight in Centre County • Celebrating People Who Make a Difference

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features

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30 / People Who Make a Difference Town&Gown’s annual celebration of residents who give of themselves in extraordinary ways to help others • by Sean Yoder

42 / Taking Flight Local real estate pros, scientists, police, photographers, and more are sending in the drones for a bird’s-eye view • by Mike Dawson

52 / Empowering Young Voices For 20 years, students in the Nittany Valley Children’s Choir have learned ‘healthy singing’ – and lessons well beyond music • by Holly Riddle

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Special Advertising Section 60 / Holiday Gift Guide Check out our guide for help on where to go and what to buy for the holidays, from stocking stuffers to special presents for the special people in your life On the cover: Mark the holidays and say goodbye to 2017 with some truly sweet endings. Check out our Taste of the Month feature beginning on page 100.

52 Town&Gown is published monthly by Barash Publications, 403 South Allen Street, State College, PA 16801. Advertising is subject to approval of the publisher. COPYRIGHT 2017 by Barash Media. All rights reserved.

Send address changes to Town&Gown, 403 S. Allen St., State College, PA 16801. No part of this magazine may be reproduced by any process except with written authorization from Town&Gown or its publisher.

Phone: 800-326-9584, 814-238-5051. FAX: 814-238-3415. Printed by Gazette Printers, Indiana, PA. 20,000 copies published this month, available FREE in retail stores, restaurants, hotels and motels & travel depots. SUBSCRIPTIONS and SINGLE COPIES: $45/1yr; current issue by 1st‑class mail, $10; back copy, $15 mailed, $12 picked up at the T&G office. townandgown.com

2017 December T&G - 5

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departments

10 Letter from The Editor 12 Starting Off: The List, People in the Community, Q&A 20 Living Well: Don’t give others the power to steal your joy and peace over the holidays • by Meghan Fritz 22 Health: What to know about detection and treatment of lung cancer • by Adrienne Wise 24 About Town: At holiday time, the words ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ take on renewed importance • by Nadine Kofman 26 On Center: Tommy Igoe and his Birdland band will play music by Bowie, The Police, and Steely Dan at Penn State • by John Mark Rafacz 28 Penn State Diary: Research brings tales of engineering ingenuity, tailgating evolution at Beaver Stadium • by Lee Stout

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122 87

What’s Happening: From Christmas in Lemont to Bellefonte Victorian Christmas to First Night, and lots in between, December is all about celebrating the holidays

96 On Tap: Tröegs’ popular Elf brews reflect the festive spirit of the season • by David Pencek 98 This Month on WPSU 100 Taste of the Month/Dining Out: Celebrate the holidays by pairing good company with some lively libations and sweet desserts • by Vilma Shu Danz 114 Lunch with Mimi: O. Richard Bundy III finds common ground in alums’ love for Penn State, whatever their other views 122 Artist of the Month: Sean Bodley has made his mark on our area as a painter and a teacher • by Miranda Buckheit 124 Snapshot: Filmmaker Pearl Gluck’s The Turn Out is a call to action to help victims of sex trafficking • by Emily Chertow

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Founder Mimi Barash Coppersmith Editorial Director Mark Brackenbury Creative Director Tiara Snare Operations Manager/Assistant Editor Vilma Shu Danz Art Director/Photographer Darren Weimert Staff Writer Sean Yoder Graphic Designer Cody Peachey Ad Coordinator Lana Bernhard Senior Account Executive Debbie Markel Account Executive Nicohl Geszvain Business Manager Aimee Aiello Interns Miranda Buckheit, Emily Chertow (editorial) Distribution Handy Delivery To contact us: Mail: 403 S. Allen St., State College, PA 16801 Phone: (814) 238-5051, (800) 326-9584 Fax: (814) 238-3415 mbrackenbury@barashmedia.com (Editorial) rschmidt@barashmedia.com (Advertising) We welcome letters to the editor that include a phone number for verification.

Back issues of Town&Gown are available on microfilm at Penn State’s Pattee Library.

Facebook.com/townandgownsc @TownGownSC townandgown.com 8 - T&G December 2017

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letter from the editor

The Ties That Bind There’s really nothing magical about the flip of the calendar, but it does give us a good reason to look back on good moments and bad, victories big and small, and things we wish we’d done differently.

And as we get older, it means shaking our heads about how quickly another year has passed. On a personal level, my wife and I find it hard to believe that we’ve already been in our new home here for a year and a half. As the old saying goes, time flies when you’re having fun.

Ultimately, December is as good a time as any to take stock of ourselves and our community – large and small.

On a national scale, news coverage has been dominated by troubling stories of intolerance, and a continuing shift in political discourse in which the focus seems to be on namecalling and pouncing on division rather than working to find common ground.

Thankfully, closer to home, it’s much easier to focus on the good in people, on the things that bind us as a community.

At Town&Gown, we have a tradition each December of profiling a few of the many special residents who make this community great. We call them People Who Make a Difference.

This year, we celebrate the contributions of one person who’s well-known for her extraordinary work over the years to help others in need, philanthropist Barbara Palmer.

We’ll also introduce you to two amazing people you may not know of, unless you’ve been personally touched by their efforts.

Jamie Jones is director of the Centre County Child Access Program, which operates a safe custody exchange program. She

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works with families under the most difficult of circumstances, ensuring the safe exchange of children between parents in contentious situations.

Alex Dyakiw is a deacon with St. John’s Episcopal Church in Bellefonte. Among other places, he volunteers at Centre Crest and at the Centre County Correctional Facility. He offers counsel and comfort to lonely people, some looking at the end of life, others going through the darkest of times.

Dyakiw is there for them.

In the spirit of the season, we’re also happy to share with you this month some of our own favorite holiday libations and desserts.

They’re probably not on your diet, but when you sit down for that turkey or ham dinner, be sure to save some room for some of these treats.

It’ll be worth the extra workout!

As always, thank you to our readers and our advertisers for allowing us to bring these stories into your homes and businesses each month. Happy Hanukkah! Merry Christmas! And Happy New Year!

Mark Brackenbury Editorial Director mbrackenbury@barashmedia.com

The Centre County Women’s Resource Center provides valuable services to people in our community, learn more about their work.

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For more information visit www.ccwrc.org or call 1-877-234-5050

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starting off

The List What to know about December Lost your keys?

Lost your glasses?

Lost your patience?

December 11 is Lost and Found Day! There’s no guarantee anything will turn up, but don’t worry about it until December 12.

But please, no Scrooges on December 25. Just heartfelt wishes for a Merry Christmas!

Let there be peace on Earth.

Happy Hanukkah! The Jewish Festival of Lights begins at sundown on December 12, and continues until the evening of December 20.

Do you sometimes feel as if you’re swimming against the tide?

We can all identify, and we’re rooting for you. Especially on December 18, Underdog Day!

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If you’re already sick of the holidays, you can let those feelings out on December 21, Humbug Day! Have at it, Ebenezer Scrooge.

For some, the day after Christmas is a bit of a letdown, what with standing in line to return presents, going back to work, and all. Appropriately, December 26 is National Whiners Day!

We’re down to the wire here on 2017, and it’s time to decide on some New Year’s resolutions before it’s too late. December 31 is Make Up Your Mind Day! T&G

People in the Community Five Central Pennsylvania residents and one organization were recently honored with John H. Ziegler Historic Preservation Awards. The event is hosted annually by the Centre County Historical Society. The program recognizes projects, individuals, and organizations for significant contributions in historic preservation and/or the preservation of historical resources in Centre County. This year’s honorees are:

Kevin Conklin

Conklin received a Preservation and Restoration award for volunteering his time and talents in the restoration and management of the Rowland Theater in Philipsburg, along with a team that has helped the iconic theater reach its 100th anniversary.

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Bellefonte Historical Railroad Society

The society also received a Preservation and Restoration award for connecting today’s generations to the era of the Iron Horse through preservation and train excursions with its Fall Foliage and Santa Express rides.

Gloria Briggs

Briggs received the History and Heritage award for decades of leadership in the Roland Curtin Foundation, which has managed the Curtin Village at Eagle Ironworks Historical Site where visitors can experience the life of a 19th-century company town.

Nancy Taylor

Taylor, a genealogist and author with roots in Burnside Township, was honored with the Education and Advocacy award. She created the Burnside Township Historical Society in 2014 and spearheaded the society’s effort to return the historic Pine Glen Post Office to its original location in Burnside Township.

Nadine Kofman

Kofman received The Jacqueline J. Melander Award. She has been chronicling the rich history of Centre County for nearly half a century, including as a columnist for Town&Gown.

Monty Christiansen

Christiansen received the President's Award.

He has made more than 800 historic Centre County postcards of the CCHS Elizabeth Cannon Collection more accessible through years of research, organization, and cataloging of the early20th-century postcard collection. T&G

Q&A with Kevin Briscoe, on his journeys with the Penn State football equipment truck

Steve Tressler/Vista Professional Studios (2)

By James Turchick

Penn State fans greet the truck with “We Are’s” at visiting stadiums, Briscoe says.

Hoy Transfer has been hauling Penn State football equipment for decades. Its owner, Kevin Briscoe, is no stranger to the long hours and late nights it takes to keep the program running around the country, making sure everything is where it needs to be when it needs to be there.

The truck will be making one more trip this season, to a bowl game in a place yet to be determined at this writing.

Briscoe shares with Town&Gown some of his perspectives on his company’s role in keeping the Nittany Lions moving, and the reactions the truck gets – from enthusiastic to rude – at away games.

T&G: Hoy Transfer has been around since 1888. For people who may not be familiar with it, how did the company start and how did it get to be what it is today?

Briscoe: We started out hauling coal and wood in the Centre Region. That eventually evolved into hauling just about anything. Over the years we have represented a number of different van lines. We have been an agent for Atlas Van Lines since 2008.

T&G: How long has Hoy Transfer been hauling Penn State’s equipment and how did that partnership begin?

What kinds of equipment do you transfer for them?

Briscoe: I’m not really certain when we first hauled the football equipment, but I heard an old tale that it was done by horse and wagon. I expect what they did back then was take it from campus to the train station in Lemont. We still haul 16 - T&G December 2017

the football equipment, everything they need to play a game. Everything the players wear, trainer’s supplies, audio, and video equipment. All the sideline equipment, anything that could possibly be needed.

T&G: Is there any piece of equipment that’s the hardest to take care of while transferring it?

Briscoe: Not really. I mean after all, it’s still football equipment.

T&G: Where is the farthest stadium you’ve had to drive to for the team? How long did it take and would you ever make that drive again?

Briscoe: The furthest I’ve gone would be Los Angeles for the Rose Bowl. Adam and I did that run in just over 40 hours and unloaded Christmas morning. We’d do that trip again in a heartbeat.

T&G: Which school do you most look forward to driving to?

Briscoe: Every school is different, different atmosphere, different traffic conditions. It’s hard to really say one is better than the others. That said, Tuscaloosa is a nice place to visit.

T&G: Working with the football team for as long as you and Hoy Transfer have is one of the longest ongoing, direct relationships anyone has with Penn State football. What’s it like to handle such an important, but often forgotten about, aspect of a Penn State away game?

Briscoe: It’s an honor, something we all look forward to. There are five of us who share the driving at any given time. Matt, Sarge, Mike, Adam, and myself. We all know the importance of what we’re asked to do. Honestly, it can get a little stressful. Whether I’m on the trip or two of my drivers are taking it. It can start to eat away at you.

T&G: Do you have to load the truck, or is there a team to help you?

Briscoe: The equipment manager and his team of student managers take care of most of the loading process at the locker room. We tidy things up and make sure the load is secured before we head out. Once we get to the away stadium, we try to have the equipment unloaded for the managers before they get there. After the game, the managers bring the equipment to the truck and the drivers get it loaded.

T&G: What is the reaction like when you arrive at an away game?

Briscoe: That depends on who is doing the reacting. Most of the fans at host cities are really good. We may get a few “one finger salutes” with a four-letter expletive thrown in every now and then but for the most part people like to see us arrive. I’d say we’re treated very well. It’s nice when we see PSU fans. It’s truly thrilling to be a part of it. The “We Are’s,” the horns honking, people smiling and waving. It’s cool. T&G Briscoe says the longest trip he’s taken with the truck is to the Rose Bowl, a 40-hour trek he says he’d do again “in a heartbeat.”

James Turchick, a Penn State senior, is a freelance writer.

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Penn State Town&Gown’s

2017-18 Winter Sports Annual

Fit and Focused

After a strong but sometimes frustrating freshman season, Tony Carr has added 25 pounds of muscle and looks to lead the Nittany Lions to greater success

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Previews and features on women’s basketball, wrestling, and men’s and women’s ice hockey

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• See video and photos from local drone pilots.

• Find recipes for our favorite lively holiday libations and desserts.

• Order your copy of Town&Gown’s 2017-18 Penn State Winter Sports Annual.

• Check out our new, easier to use, E-edition.

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living well

The Gift of Healthy Holidays Don’t give others the power to steal your joy and peace

By Meghan Fritz As we approach the holidays we will get ready to spend time with family and enjoy the season.

While we would all like to have a happy holiday season, the key to a successful holiday is to protect your emotional, physical, and spiritual health.

This time of year can trigger uncomfortable feelings of sadness, regret, anger, and guilt leading to the holiday blues.

The best way to safeguard yourself from an unhealthy holiday is to be aware of your feelings and create a plan of action that works to keep you healthy and strong all season long.

Many of us feel like we have to spend time with specific family members during the season. This kind of pressure can cause us to feel anxious and physically uncomfortable with a pit in your stomach or a lump in your throat. As soon as you feel that way about the plans you are making for the holiday, stop and tune in to what these physical symptoms are telling you.

Our bodies have a built-in GPS system that will let us know immediately when we need to stop and recalculate. If spending time with a certain family member makes you feel physically uncomfortable and you find yourself dreading the holidays, stop and love yourself enough to acknowledge the truth of your feelings.

Many of us consistently override our GPS system and continue to put ourselves in uncomfortable family dynamics to avoid conflict. The problem with this is that while you may protect other people from feeling uncomfortable, you feel sick and stressed out.

Do not take one for the team and allow yourself to experience extreme anxiety and discomfort. Pay attention to your GPS and make a commitment to honor your peace of mind over pleasing others.

Have a strategy in place of how you will navigate the holiday season and who you would enjoy spending time with. For those 20 - T&G December 2017

family members that you would rather stay away from, be honest with yourself and loved ones (when possible) about your plan of action to protect yourself from toxicity and negativity.

Instead of spending the evening with people that stress you out, have a time-limited plan and stick to it. Time limits will help keep your anxiety level low and make you feel more in control of a difficult situation.

If you can share this plan with someone else – friend, spouse, loved one – do so and pick a code word that you will use if you need to get yourself out of a situation immediately. Have a plan of what you will do when you use that code word. For example, you will exit the room, go outside, take a deep breath, and regroup. Or, you will head to the bathroom and take a minute to get your peace of mind back.

If the situation is causing extreme anxiety triggered by a certain family member, use the code word with a safe person, grab your coat and let people know you are not feeling well and need to leave.

Whenever you choose to override your internal GPS you are setting yourself up for anxiety, depression, and physical symptoms of a migraine, GI trouble, or a heavy lump in your throat. How other people (family members) feel about your boundaries is NOT your problem.

Be unapologetic in taking care of yourself emotionally, physically, and spiritually. The best gift you can give yourself in any season is to honor your health above all else.

Do not give other people the power to steal your joy and peace.

Make this holiday season happy and healthy.

You are worth it!. T&G Meghan Fritz, LCSW, is a psychotherapist practicing in State College.

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health

Lung Cancer Awareness What to know about detection and treatment

By Adrienne Wise, RRT Cancer. It’s a word that enters everyday conversation, though not usually welcomed.

Nearly everyone has been affected by this word. With that word – this horrible disease – a number of emotions and Adrienne Wise thoughts cross one’s mind, and the experience is different for each person affected. The person who has been given that diagnosis reacts differently than the caregiver or the neighbor or even the doctor giving this news. Cancer is a word that causes pain, hardships, and daily struggle.

The Facts Diagnosed every 2.5 minutes, lung cancer will be responsible for the deaths of 427 people today. That’s a total of almost 160,000 lives annually and more than colon, breast, and prostate cancer deaths combined. This is a cancer that may not present with signs and symptoms that point the healthcare provider right to the source of the problem, making early diagnosis difficult.

This is a disease where, in 85-90 percent of the cases, the cause is smoking. If lung cancer is largely a smoker’s disease, then why don’t smokers just quit? If only it was that easy.

Smoking is an addiction, and a hard one to break. The nicotine inhaled from a cigarette takes 10 seconds to be absorbed into the 22 - T&G December 2017

bloodstream and signal the brain to release adrenaline. The end result is a feeling of pleasure and energy. But that feeling fades all too quickly, the cycle begins again, and the need to light another cigarette drives the addiction.

As with any addiction you begin to develop tolerance, and more nicotine is required to gain the same feeling as before. Fear of withdrawal coupled with addiction to nicotine could be intimidating to the smoker in their efforts to quit. One begins to feel the symptoms of withdrawal – including, but not limited to, intense cravings, anxiety, restless feelings and headaches – a mere two to three hours after their last cigarette. It is possible for the smoker to make seven or eight attempts before they successfully quit smoking.

Continued support from loved ones, coworkers, and healthcare providers could make a quit journey easier.

It is important to note that lung cancer is also a disease of nonsmokers, with other known causes such as radon gas, asbestos, air pollution, and genetics. Non-smoker lung cancer can still be ranked in the top 10 of the most deadly cancers in the United States.

Those who do smoke begin this habit early in life, most likely before the age of 18. The negative effects of smoking take years to develop and present in a way that causes concern to the smoker.

Most lung cancer cases are diagnosed between the ages of 65 and 74. A condition that takes this much time to become apparent – in some cases more than 50 years – doesn’t seem so threatening when the addiction begins.

Awareness Event with lung cancer numbers as prevalent as they are; awareness is an aspect of lung cancer that may be lacking. Is there something more that can be done? Are there attitudes and stigmas associated with those two words that perhaps prevent a person with symptoms from talking to their

Lung cancer takes the lives of almost 160,000 people annually, more than colon, breast, and prostate cancer deaths combined.

healthcare provider? The Lung Cancer Project (thelungcancerproject.org) is a movement working to remove stigma and other barriers that people with lung cancer are facing so that they may receive the care they need and deserve. This research project has shown that three out of four people have a negative bias toward people with lung cancer, associating the disease with shame and hopelessness.

There are several organizations in the nation directing their efforts to changing biases, promoting awareness, and raising funds for further research on lung cancer.

Groups like Lung Force (lung.org), the Bonnie J. Adarrio Lung Cancer Foundation (lungcancerfoundation.org), and The Lung Cancer Project are working tirelessly to change the face and future of lung cancer.

Detection and Treatment What is being done in the detection and treatment of lung cancer? Early detection through a low-dose CT scan is gaining recognition and proving to be a key piece of ammunition in this battle. Low-dose CT scans detect lung cancer in its smallest stages, before a person begins to experience any other symptoms, allowing early treatment and better outcomes. Targeted therapy and

immunotherapy are being administered to patients with lung cancer that have been identified with certain biomarkers. The goal of treatment for lung cancer is beginning to shift from palliative to curative; patients are surviving and beating this disease.

There is never a patient sitting in an exam room, waiting for the doctor to come in and say that they have cancer. No one expects or wants to be diagnosed with lung cancer. Every patient deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, and offered the most advanced treatment to battle cancer. T&G Along with offering at-risk patients low-dose CT lung cancer screenings, Mount Nittany Health also has a lung nodule program, a service made possible by a lead gift from Lloyd and Dottie Huck to the Mount Nittany Health Foundation, that is dedicated to improving the quality of life for adults by providing early detection of lung cancer and best practices in lung nodule care, using a multispecialty healthcare team. To learn more about Mount Nittany Health’s lung nodule program, visit mountnittany.org.

Adrienne Wise, Registered Respiratory Therapist, is the lung nodule program coordinator for Mount Nittany Health.

2017 December T&G - 23

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about town

The New ‘Three Rs’ At holiday time, ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ take on renewed importance

By Nadine Kofman In these modern-times, the “Three Rs” have become “reduce, reuse, recycle.” December may be the hardest month to keep that in mind.

One little nudge is the first-time calendar illustrated by contest-winning Centre County fifth-graders: “How My Buddies and I Recycle.” Finishing the year, December illustrator Brenda St. Clair of Pleasant Gap Elementary School shows a new family tradition: two people take a tall load – possibly post-holiday wrapping paper – to a recycling bin.

The unsaid message is that holiday gift wrap could receive a second life as either a gift box or a stiff back for a tablet, if it’s recycled instead of being pitched into a garbage can.

The student calendar spotlights the Centre County Recycling & Refuse Authority, which has fielded more than 100 recycling containers from its 253 Transfer Road, Bellefonte, headquarters.

“Weis Markets did this as a surprise for us,” reports a smiling Joanne Shafer, the CCRRA’s deputy executive director, as well as its recycling coordinator.

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Although December is the big waste-creating month for most households, it’s not the biggest month for the CCRRA. With out-of-town holiday travel, fewer householders are here. Those staying, Shafer says, contribute only about 1,000 tons of recyclable material (and another 9,000-some tons of trash).

According to Shafer, the heaviest county truckloads – particularly the State College area’s – are, in descending order: Penn State home football games, major apartment moving in and out days, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, events at the on-campus Bryce Jordan Center. Overall, the CCRRA handles annually more than 12,000 tons of recyclables and 100,000 tons of trash.

But, no matter the household count, paper recycling is on the upswing after Christmas and Chanukah (or Hanukkah; the several spellings tackle pronunciation).

Prohibited from the “mixed paper” receptacles is gift-wrap resembling aluminum foil.

Certainly a shame, it’s so pretty.

Because of fiber content, says Shafer, it can’t be processed with mixed paper. It can’t even go into the recycling bins for aluminum foil and tin cans (cat-food cans, for some of us). It looks the same, but isn’t. Ribbon that’s basically cotton is OK; metallic ribbon, elasticized ribbon, aren’t.

“Cloth ribbon should be reused.”

Packaged synthetic bows that glue-on are, thankfully, recyclable with paper.

Since its inception in 1971, more and more kinds of containers have been accepted.

In her 27 years on the job. Shafer has actively secured buyers for newsprint and magazines, new and used mixed paper/

cardboard, plastic bottles and jars/jugs, metal cans and foil, glass bottles and jars, corrugated cardboard. And the list has grown. “Miscellaneous plastics” like my yogurt containers are now accepted at a few locations. In the future, there will be cloth and possibly milk-container recycling.

Still unchanged is the fact that the Borough of State College accepts more kinds of things than do other parts of the county. Since 2013, it has taken an organic approach – collecting at curbside things that once lived.

For instance, says Shafer: “If you live in State College, you can put out your turkey bones and leftover stuffing.”

Overall, “We are among the top 10 programs in the commonwealth,” says Shafer, who’s been very active on the national scene, too.

Countywide, she says, “The authority has set a zero-waste goal by 2035.”

Reuse Training and Gifts “Reuse” entered my vocabulary when I was about the same age as the calendar illustrators.

At my best friend Nancy’s home – two

doors away, in the 700 block of South Allen Street – I learned wrapping from her mom, Jen Ferguson, a sensible person with an Iowafarm rearing. Trying to follow her example, I learned the trickiness of lining-up gift paper so expertly that you couldn’t see the fold marks from last year’s gift.

This “reuse” idea was reinforced every time I saw beautiful paper used only once.

“Reduce” could also describe my husband’s gifting in his 60s. Aghast over the pile of past gifts, Bill henceforth gave adults unwrapped “comestibles.” Imported cheeses and local jellies might not have been eye-popping, but they didn’t linger.

It may be age, but today I buy a reusable holiday bag and enough tissue paper to hide what’s inside.

The “reduce” concept certainly isn’t untapped in Shafer, who favors keeping costs down and ingenuity up. “Make the wrapping part of the gifts,” she says, suggesting that kitchen supplies, for instance, be put in a basket or box and tied with a ribbon or “a pretty dishtowel.”

To minimize waste and disappointment, “I encourage people to ask friends and family what they want.” She gives her reader daughter a gift card for books. “Young people love gift cards,” she says. “‘Re-gifting’ has gotten a bad name” but makes sense. And some people could use “a gift of time.”

That last gift idea brings to mind special giving – the dollars deposited in Interfaith Mission and Salvation Army outdoor collection buckets, given to charities represented at the Alternative Christmas Fair (December 3) run by the University Baptist and Brethren Church, donations to the Marines Corps’ Toys for Tots program.

Usually discovered in stores and at the county’s numerous holiday bazaars, gifts are almost always dressed-up for giving. It’s a good idea to remember what happens next. For the 2017 calendar year, a group of fifth-graders has helped spread the word about the Centre County Recycling & Refuse Authority’s modern-day “Three Rs.” T&G Nadine Kofman is a native Centre Countian and historian.

2017 December T&G - 25

T& G

on center

Essential Grooves

Tommy Igoe and his Birdland band to play music by Bowie, The Police, Steely Dan © Trisha Leeper

By John Mark Rafacz

Tommy Igoe and his Birdland band play at Eisenhower Auditorium on January 26.

People who appreciate high-octane jazz can experience the vibe of a landmark club when drummer Tommy Igoe and his big band, in their first tour in five years, recreate the excitement of an evening at Birdland. Featuring some of the finest musicians in New York City, The Birdland All-Stars sets the standard for a 21st-century jazz orchestra.

The Penn State concert — January 26 at Eisenhower Auditorium — is scheduled to include new arrangements of music by David Bowie, The Police, and Steely Dan, plus fresh treatments of compositions by Charlie Parker, Chick Corea, and Herbie Hancock.

The Birdland All-Stars band, which has been thrilling audiences at “The Jazz Corner of the World” for more than a decade, is one of the Big Apple’s most popular music attractions.

“The band plays with mastery and conviction …,” writes a JazzTimes reviewer. “The band’s fresh charts and bravura style keep it from lapsing into echoes of the past. Igoe conveys a contagious groove as a drummer, and he has chops to burn.”

Igoe has percussion flowing through his veins. His father, Sonny Igoe, played in the swing-era big bands of Woody Herman, Benny Goodman, and Charlie Ventura.

The younger Igoe, who began drumming before he was 2 and studied piano starting at 10, was named the world’s best jazz drummer in the 2014 Modern Drummer Reader’s Poll.

He has played drums on several Grammy Award-winning 26 - T&G December 2017

recordings and was the principal drummer and associate conductor for Disney’s original Broadway production of The Lion King.

In 2012, Igoe and the Birdland band released Eleven, a collection of funk, Latin, and contemporary jazz arrangements.

“This high-octane orchestra is defined by fast and furious playing from its brass, horns, and hot percussion, producing a truly electrifying sound that distinguishes it from other ensembles,” an AllAboutJazz.com writer relates in his review of the album.

Igoe, who moved from New York City to San Francisco five years ago, also has a West Coast big band called the Tommy Igoe Groove Conspiracy, which performs weekly at Yoshi’s Jazz Club in the city by the bay.

“I don’t hire musicians who need to be led,” Igoe tells a SFGate.com interviewer. “I studied classical and jazz piano for twenty years, so I can speak the language of every instrument. I talk to the audience. That’s my secret sauce.

I am committed to breaking the wall down between performer and audience. I want to invite them in.

Jazz can get very exclusionary. I want complete engagement.”

The percussionist, who is also a teacher and an inspirational speaker, is the creator of the popular Groove Essentials series of DVDs and playalong books. T&G Shirley J. Coploff, Nancy Gamble, and Lam and Lina Hood sponsor the concert.

For tickets and information, visit cpa.psu.edu or phone (814) 863-0255.

John Mark Rafacz is the editorial manager of the Center for the Performing Arts.

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T& G

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Writing the Book on Beaver Stadium Research brings tales of engineering ingenuity, tailgating evolution Penn State University Archives

By Lee Stout Lair of the Lion, a History of Beaver Stadium “hit the streets” this past August, much to the delight of Penn State football fans and to the co-authors as well. Professor Emeritus of Civil Engineering Harry H. West and I have worked on this book since 2013 and it seems like it’s been a long time coming.

The Beaver Stadium tailgating Readers are telling us scene in the 1960s was simpler how much they are and the attire far more formal enjoying it. They like than today. the stories we tell and the many photos and diagrams that illustrate them.

Now that we’ve been out talking about it in bookstore signings, formal presentations, and radio and television interviews, we’re beginning to see a pattern to the questions people ask, as well as the occasional unexpected comment.

Frequent interviewer questions for both of us have been “what is your favorite story from the book?” and “what is the most surprising thing you discovered in your research?” I think we each have favorite stories in our own contributions and surprises in the stories that the other has brought to the book.

Harry West, an engineer, has written the parts of the book that concern the design and construction of the stadium and its predecessor Beaver Fields. Probably his favorite chapters concern the unique challenges of two major expansions. The first was the extraordinary raising of the steel grandstands in 1978-79 to add almost 16,000 new seats on concrete rows at the base of the stadium, along with filling in the south end of the horseshoe to make it a bowl. This is an amazing 28 - T&G December 2017

tale of engineering ingenuity, and a procedure that had never been done to any stadium, before or since.

Likewise, fixing the cracks in the concrete structures that support the walkways to reach the new north deck in 1990-91 was a challenge that tested the collaboration of engineers and contractors alike. Assessing causes had to be set aside to solve the cracking problem so that the fans who would occupy those 10,000 new seats could safely enjoy the game. Suffice it to say, the problem was resolved, and the game went on as scheduled.

As a historian, I have written the parts of the book that explain the significance of football for Penn State as an institution, and how the sport has fit into the evolution of the university and the campus.

I have also tried to describe how the football experience has evolved over the last 130 years for students, alumni, and fans alike. That experience is important to their everyday lives. It impacts the sense of community, self-image, and the emotions of many.

Some of our presentations include pictures of then and now.

For example, tailgating and how students dress for games both past and present give the audience a chuckle. For senior citizens, the simple tailgating and more formal dress from the early 1960s strike familiar memories. Students and young alumni, however, are amazed at how much those things have changed. And that is our hope – that readers will enjoy what they learn as well as what they didn’t know or understand.

But then, what surprised us in our research and writing? On my part, the fact that struck me the most came from looking more carefully at a picture of the site

Penn State University Archives

Get to to know... know...

Get

Workers join old grandstand sections to new stands at Beaver Stadium, 1959-60.

preparation for Beaver Stadium in 1959-60.

I knew about the move of the Beaver Field grandstands to the new east campus location.

However, I now realized how odd it was to see the 16,000 newly-constructed seats up in the air, awaiting the insertion of the nearly 28,000 seats of the New Beaver Field grandstands below them.

Professor West often talks about his surprise at discovering that our steel stands used the patented Lambert grandstand, beginning in 1934 right up until 1978-79 when the new stands began to be built using concrete. Byron J. Lambert, the inventor of this product, was an engineering professor at the University of Iowa.

His unique design allowed sections of grandstand to be bolted together to make any height or length that was desired. This enabled Penn State to later disassemble the grandstands and move them to become part of Beaver Stadium.

Perhaps our most unique moment came when a Blue Band alum looked at the book’s cover illustration of the stadium and realized that it was the Homecoming, whiteout evening game against Michigan, that took place on October 12, 2013. He knew he had played with the Alumni Blue Band that night and, as he examined the photo more closely, he realized he could place himself right on the 30-yard line.

He was on the cover, and he had to have the book. We hope you’ll want one too. T&G Lee Stout is librarian emeritus, special collections for Penn State.

Wieslaw Glon: Cecily Zhu: Zhu: Cecily Advancing Penn State fencing Greener Transportation Transportation Greener

As a child, Wes Glon played several team CecilyThen Zhuhas has neverowned owned car.to Most ofthe the Cecily Zhu aacar.

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Clearly, Zhu practices what she preaches.

As Penn Clearly, Zhu practices what she preaches. As Penn A native of Poland, Glon earned his State’ssfirst firstalternative alternativetransportation transportationprogram program State’ undergraduate and graduate degrees in coordinator, sincefall fall2015 2015 she has managedof coordinator, since has managed physical education fromshe the Academy everything from bike programs to car share.

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Physical Education in Warsaw. He wonShe his also workswith with Statefencing Collegeand andCentre Centre Regionsix also works State College country’s highest honors in Region saber planners toensure ensure cohesive system.at“This “This area times and was bronze medalist the area 1979 planners to aacohesive system.

University Worldbike Games inand Mexico City. He has suchinteresting interesting bike routes and connectivity, has such routes connectivity, ”” leftsays.

Poland in 1981, assisted with coaching she says. she theZhu Austrian Team for twopublic years, Zhu grewup upNational inNew NewYork York City, where public grew in City, where and then immigrated to the United transit andwalking walkingare areaaway way oflife. life.

AfterStates earningaa transit and of After earning in 1983.

He joined Penn State’s program in degreein inEnvironmental EnvironmentalStudies–Policy, Studies–Policy,Planning, Planning, degree 1985 and became head coach in 2014, after and Law from SUNY College of Environmental and Law from SUNY College of Environmental leading the Nittany Lions to their 13th NCAA Science andForestry, Forestry, sheinterim workedin in Syracuse and Science and she worked Syracuse and Championship while head coach. then Grand Tetons National Parktop before heading then Grand Park before heading Glon is Tetons one ofNational the world’s fencing to Pittsburgh, where she mostrecently recently wasaa officials in all three weapons and was has to Pittsburgh, where she most coached many U.S.and national teams. transportation policy and planning fellowHe forthe the transportation policy planning fellow for also has founded several youth programs, Pittsburgh Community Reinvestment Group.

Pittsburgh Community Reinvestment Group. including Central Fencing ThePenn Pennthe State jobwas wasPennsylvania attractiveto toZhu Zhu The State job attractive Association, whichs introduces area middle because ofthe theregion’ region’ interestin inalternative alternative because of s interest and high school students to the sport and transportation(CATA’ (CATA’s clean-runningcompressed compressed transportation helps them advances clean-running their skills in both the natural gasand fleet,mental forexample) example) andofthe the opportunity natural gas fleet, for and opportunity physical aspects fencing. to develop newprograms programs oncampus. campus.

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State Bookstore thanks Wes Glon Enforcement Program.

Enforcement and allPenn faculty and staff who carryCecily out the The Penn State Bookstore thanks Cecily The State Bookstore thanks university’s mission everyand day.

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www.psu.bncollege.com www.psu.bncollege.com 814-863-0205 814-863-0205 2017 December T&G - 29

People

Who Make A

Difference Town&Gown’s annual celebration of residents who give of themselves in extraordinary ways to help others

BY SEAN YODER

30 - T&G December 2017

2017 December T&G - 31

Town&Gown takes pride each December in profiling a few of the truly extraordinary Centre County residents who make a difference in our community. This year, we focus on three people – Jamie Jones, Alex Dyakiw, and Barbara Palmer – with different backgrounds and experiences who have one big thing in common: they have given tirelessly of themselves to help others.

32 - T&G December 2017

Darren Andrew Weimert (3)

Alex Dyakiw is a deacon who makes war against loneliness and acts as a shepherd for the struggling and the dying.

Loneliness is a component of both of his current major volunteer efforts, at Centre Crest and the Centre County Correctional Facility, he says.

People fear dying alone, and those struggling with addiction can feel as though they have no one to talk to, or that they’re not worthy enough to fit in with society.

Ordained in 2007 with the sponsorship of his church — St. John’s Episcopal in Bellefonte — he keeps his schedule packed with service hours, responding to the needs of the community or individual as they pop up.

The tall Brooklyn native for the last 24 years has been giving his time to be at the bedside of those on the precipice of passing from this life at Centre Crest and Mount Nittany Medical Center. He calls it “midwifing.”

“There’s a hard point when we’re at a certain age — young or old — where we’re just fearful of death,” Dyakiw says. “I think I try to help people make that transition.

I try to help people to know that it’s going to be OK. We

Dyakiw (right) with Centre County Correctional Facility Warden Christopher Schell. Dyakiw leads a 12-step program at the jail.

talk about end of life, we talk about afterlife, we talk about what it must be like, and we try to take the fear out of dying. For a lot of people in nursing homes, that fear of dying is being alone. They want to know that someone is going to be there, and I try to be that person.”

That term, midwifing, was first spoken to him in that context by a nurse whose hand he held as she lay on her deathbed and told him “I’m ready.”

He also spends time with those who have been affected by injury or other ailments such as a stroke or infectious disease, which can also bring on feelings of

loneliness and helplessness.

He conducts monthly nondenominational services at Centre Crest and each week spends time with residents who don’t get a lot of visitors, says Bobbi Salvaterra, director of therapeutic recreation.

“You know when Alex comes in the building he has a big voice,” Salvaterra says. “He’s a big hugger. He’s extremely affectionate to all the residents. That’s helpful for residents who don’t have a lot of visitors. Alex comes and gives them a big hug and remembers their name.”

Dyakiw is their man on call when a resident is nearing the end of life. That

sometimes means a midnight call, and he’s there within minutes. Salvaterra says he doesn’t just show that dedication to residents, but staff as well. That was evident when last year a staffer was killed in an auto accident, and Salvaterra says Dyakiw was there within minutes providing support for coworkers.

“He’s just everywhere in the community,” she says, adding, “He gives love freely and doesn’t ask for anything in return.”

At the county jail, inmates voluntarily come to him for his 12-step program.

Though 12-step is inherently faith-based, Dyakiw says the

“He’s just everywhere in the community.

He gives love freely and doesn’t ask for anything in return,” Salvaterra says of Dyakiw. people in the programs don’t respond well to preaching.

It’s more important, he says, to try to equip them with some tools to return to their normal lives when they’re released. An inmate at the county jail is there for only a short time. Two years

is the maximum. So when they return, if they were addicted to drugs or alcohol, there’s a high chance they’ll return to the same lifestyle with the same comrades.

Like with those who fear death, Dyakiw tries to listen to them and hear their pain.

“I’ve heard horror stories,” he says. “I don’t excuse them for what happened, but it happened.”

Inmates who return to society face huge obstacles, he says. He tries to build them up and teach them that they can be whatever they want to be if they work for it, and that they are worth it.

Dyakiw says he revels in the success stories. People he

Dyakiw conducts nondenominational services at Centre Crest, and spends time visiting with residents including Andrew.

2017 December T&G - 33

mentored while they were in jail will approach him on the street or in a restaurant and show him their new family or tell him of their new home or job.

“It’s a hard struggle but they got their life back.”

Dyakiw, 68, a retired New York City carpenter, has lived in Bellefonte since the early 1990s, when he and his wife were seeking a simpler, cheaper place to live. He tells a story that when they were looking for somewhere to live, the first three people they met in Bellefonte said “Hello,” and right there the decision was made.

Dyakiw credits St. John’s with providing him with excellent support, allowing him to put about 90 percent of his effort into community work. The congregation is generous with donations when a need arises.

Frequently, people ask Dyakiw why he gives so much of his time or why he’s chosen this path.

“I say because it has to be done. What are we to live for?”

Leading the Centre County Child Access Program “was an opportunity, I thought, to give back in another way,” Jones (left) says.

He’s big on face-to-face contact, something he calls “divine intimacy.” He expresses skepticism at the world of social media and digital communication for means of connection.

“Try holding the hand of a dying person or a senior citizen, or shaking the hand of an inmate when he’s out.”

*** Jamie Jones is a mediator and neutral party, perhaps even a referee, in situations where tensions are high and the safety of children is of the utmost concern.

Jones is the director of the Centre County Child Access Program, which operates

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a safe custody exchange program in Bellefonte.

She’s responsible for ensuring that families under her purview safely exchange the custody of the child between parents, or conduct supervised visits at her facility. All told, 130 families have made successful exchanges under the program’s roof.

Most of these families are sent from the courts, Jones says, and in every case there is one parent who is a safety concern. The courts may have reason to believe there has been or will be violence against the spouse or the child. That’s sometimes a hard thing for families to admit.

What makes Jones special, Ard says, is “her ability to really blend the awareness of domestic violence for everyone involved, the parents and the children.”

“Most people wouldn’t identify themselves as being in a domestic violence situation,” Jones says.

Jones was a special education teacher at Bellefonte Middle School before she applied for the post, despite lacking a background working with victims of domestic violence.

What she did have was experience working with families and their children, and a love for the community.

“I grew up here in Bellefonte,” she says. “I went away to college, I came back, taught here at the Bellefonte Middle School.

But I’ve always just wanted

2017 December T&G - 35

Sean Yoder

Jones leads the Centre County Child Access Program, based on North Allegheny Street in Bellefonte, which works to ensure safe custody exchanges.

to give back to Bellefonte. I really liked growing up here.

So this was an opportunity, I thought, to give back in another way.”

The program was spun from organizations and leaders in the community after the death of Jodi Warshaw-Barone, a State College mother who was murdered by her estranged husband in April 2007.

Warshaw-Barone was meeting Benjamin Barone to make a custody exchange of their 3-year-old daughter at a Sheetz, probably with the hope that a public place would prevent the worst.

Benjamin Barone killed his wife and took his own life despite her precautions.

36 - T&G December 2017

So here in Jones’ sanctuary, the two parents will never meet face to face during a custody exchange. The parent who is a security concern is ordered to come early and stay late to prevent them from trying to follow the other parent.

Obviously, this generates resentment, even though Jones says she tries to be neutral with all involved. She says it is a process to gain trust from both parents in these situations and she doesn’t expect any at the start.

The nature of the supervised visitations and exchanges generates a defensiveness in the parents, who feel judged for the turns their lives have taken, she

says. Jones does what she can to defuse this, but it’s a long process, sometimes stretching over years.

Jones and her staff are always listening in, always keeping a watchful eye on the interactions that take place in their office. In Jones’ house, a parent can’t badmouth another parent or ask the child where they’ve been staying.

For seven years Jones has helmed the program, and those seven years have been relatively quiet.

It’s hard to measure success in this business, as Jones points out that her job is to keep incidents from happening, and it’s hard to measure a lack of something.

Bellefonte police are in the neighborhood, and she says local law enforcement has done a good job keeping an eye on the front doors.

There are tense times, of course, and much frustration is directed at Jones and her staff, but she says she believes in the importance of the work, of keeping families safe during exchanges.

“I’ve been accused of being a prison guard,” she says with a chuckle. “There’s been all sorts of not nice things said over the years.”

The program is now under a funding threat as the grant it had been relying on wasn’t renewed this year.

She says they’re trying to piece together sustainable

funding through both public and private sources and are looking for more generous donors to keep it going.

There’s no cost to those who make use of the program.

Its administrative support comes from the Centre County Women’s Resource Center. The director, Anne Ard, praises the work of Jones and her staff and says numerous counties have copied the model for a similar exchange program.

“I take a lot of pride in that,” she says, and their successful program comes from Jones’ excellent community advocacy.

What makes Jones special, Ard says, is “her ability to

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really blend the awareness of domestic violence for everyone involved, the parents and the children.” *** If there is a local effort having to do with children, art, or theater, the odds are Barbara Palmer has been involved somewhere along the way.

She and her late husband, James, gave the name to the Palmer Museum of Art at Penn State, a free-admission gallery for the university and surrounding communities.

In late October, Palmer established a fund for women in leadership in the name of her friend Mimi Barash Coppersmith.

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Barbara and James for decades helmed the communications company C-COR and Centre Video, and from their efforts they were able to give millions over the course of their lives.

Coppersmith, founder of Town&Gown, says for most of Palmer’s life, even before being blessed with a business windfall, she was giving of her time and talent.

“You can look behind almost any outstanding service or philanthropic effort in this community and see in some way the hand and love of Barbara Palmer,” Coppersmith says. “It’s all around us. People never stop asking and she has never stopped giving. It’s part of her DNA.”

“You can look behind almost any outstanding service or philanthropic effort in this community and see in some way the hand and love of Barbara Palmer,” Coppersmith says.

Barbara Palmer

Palmer says she’s gotten to meet a lot of people in her career as a philanthropist and volunteer, and that it was a good way for her to get involved. As for her heavy focus in the arts, “Art is a way to enjoy life as well as become aware of the value of the finer things

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In late October, Palmer (left) established a fund for women in leadership in the name of her friend Coppersmith.

and interesting things in our world,” she said last month.

“We can all enjoy more in our lives if we can open up to other ways of seeing and doing.”

Palmer has supported dancers looking for a break to get into theater, and has worked to help minorities achieve their theater dreams.

She’s supported chairs and professorships at Penn State in the engineering and communications colleges.

Palmer has also been a longtime supporter of the Park Forest Day Nursery School.

40 - T&G December 2017

She started a stewardship fund for Centre Foundation in 2005 to aid the organization in its mission. She was the first female president of Centre County United Way, was once the vice president of Hemlock Girl Scout Council, served on the steering committee for the Grand Destiny Campaign at Penn State, has supported Centre Volunteers in Medicine, and served on boards and committees at Mount Nittany Medical Center.

Palmer has also given generously to her alma mater

of Iowa State, most notably donating $1 million in 1996 for the construction of what became known as the Palmer Human Development and Family Studies Building.

At 92 years old, she faces a number of challenges and needs a lot of love, Coppersmith says.

“She is unbelievably generous and kind. Beyond definition, really.” T&G Sean Yoder is a staff writer for Town&Gown and The Centre County Gazette.

T

42 - T&G December 2017

Brad Fey operating his drone in Rothrock State Forest. At right, a shot Fey took with his drone over Bear Meadows.

f

Taking flight Local real estate pros, scientists, police, photographers, and more are sending in the drones for a bird’s-eye view

By Mike Dawson

2017 December T&G - 43

Y

ears ago, self-described “tinkerer” Jorge Jovel had to get creative when he needed aerial video shots for clients of his production company. He’d buy a drone kit or construct one himself, strap a camera onto it, send it up, and hope for the best.

But those days of improvising drone video and photography are over.

People like Jovel are piloting the next generation of drones, built with high-definition cameras, hightech remote controls, and apps “It’s come that are compatible with tablets a long and smartphones. They’re able to way. I capture, with ease, scenes from above cannot the treetops or live action that a imagine helicopter could get. People in fields the next outside of traditional photography are five years,” finding new uses for drones.

Jorge Jovel “It’s come a long way,” says Jovel, says of owner of Black Sheep Media House new uses in State College, which offers drone for drones. aerial footage as part of its services.

“I can’t imagine the next five years.”

Jovel described a shoot he had for a client this past summer. He was hired to take an aerial shot to be used as the opening scene for a video about climate change. He wanted a shot similar to opening scenes in movies that show a high-altitude, sweeping view of a place, and the shot then comes in closer to someone or something that’s part of the plot of the story.

Here, Jovel, who was in a car while controlling the drone, filmed birds’-eye-view shots of a man on a motorcycle leaving his house. What was just a speck starts looking like a person on a motorcycle, and one of the subsequent scenes will cut to an interview with the man.

44 - T&G December 2017

With the drone, Jovel replicated the angles he could get using a camera on a jib, or a crane that moves like a seesaw to steer a camera horizontally or vertically.

“I love movements with jibs in movies,” Jovel says. “The way I use a drone as a jib, I take the drone, and as I’m flying up, I would tilt it down.”

Drones are a better alternative to using a helicopter, probably the only way these shots could have been captured before, he says.

“It’s super simple – you have it in a case,” he says of the drone, “and if it calls for the shot, you take it out of the case rather than calling the helicopter team, which would turn this into a huge budget.”

Perhaps the strongest sign of how far the development of drones has come was in June 2016, when the Federal Aviation Administration enacted new regulations for pilots who fly drones for commercial uses.

Fey took this shot over Jeremy Frank in Rothrock State Forest.

Among these new rules: aspiring pilots must pass an FAA exam to be certified to fly the drones, and while flying, pilots have to keep the drones within their line of sight, can’t fly them higher than 400 feet or exceed 100 mph, and are prohibited from flying over crowds not involved in the flight itself.

(Pilots can apply for waivers, though, through the FAA.) The FAA also prohibited drones from flying within a 5-mile radius of airports with control towers, such as the University Park Airport in Benner Township. The local no-fly zone covers all of Penn State’s campus, downtown State College, and nearby communities such as Houserville, Lemont,

Fey says he has owned his drone for only eight months, but is already looking to upgrade with an eye toward the future.

Park Forest, Unionville, and Julian. (Again, the FAA has a process for pilots to request waivers to fly in no-fly zones.)

Penn State has requested and received waivers to fly on campus for various activities, says Mike Yukish, a member of the university’s unmanned aircraft operations management team who also works as a research associate at the Applied Research Lab. He says the university has received 70 requests to fly so far since the beginning of the fall

2017 semester in late August, totaling 70 hours of flying time.

Many of the requests have been from construction companies, which send up drones to survey or inspect building work.

“They’re replacing guys dangerously climbing on a building,” he says.

The Big Ten Network used a drone at the BlueWhite spring football game in April to film the tailgating atmosphere around Beaver Stadium, Yukish says.

2017 December T&G - 45

Jorge Jovel of Black Sheep Media House with a drone he built.

46 - T&G December 2017

Scientists at Penn State, like Peter LaFemina, are also finding ways to use drones for their work.

La Femina, a volcanologist and associate professor in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, has been flying drones inside volcanoes in Nicaragua since 2013. He and his students are creating digital models of the surfaces of the volcanoes to track changes in their shape, and he flies drones as low as 150 feet into the craters, where

he records video and takes photos.

“It really allows you to get in and get a closer look than what you’d be able to get if you were on the edge of the crater,” LaFemina says.

One of the volcanoes where he does his research is Masaya, which is almost 2,100 feet high and about 12 miles outside the capital city, Managua.

Video shot in April from inside Masaya volcano’s caldera, a large depression formed after the collapse of the mouth of the volcano, shows a rocky surface and gas billowing out from the bright reddish-orange

“I love movements with jibs in movies.

The way I use a drone as a jib, I take the drone, and as I’m flying up, I would tilt it down,” says Jovel, displaying some of the tools of the trade.

magma. The drone captured footage in 1080 pixels, the kind of high-definition picture quality available on consumer big-screen TVs. The wispy clouds of gas are sulfur dioxide, which can be harmful to humans, and by deploying a drone, 2017 December T&G - 47

LaFemina can watch the feed on the drone’s remote control, hundreds of meters away, avoiding exposure to the gas.

“You no longer have to be right there to make the observations – you can send in the drones,” he says. “For volcanologists, that’s a big deal.”

As a photographer, Michael Houtz is used to taking his digital SLR camera wherever he goes in case he spots something that catches his eye. And over the past several years that he’s been using drones to shoot still images for clients of his photography business, the aircraft has joined the camera as another piece of equipment that’s always with him.

“I wonder what it will look

like at twilight with fireworks going off or the rainbow that just happened,” Houtz says.

“The idea, for me, it’s like with a camera, you always want to have it with you.

The same thing with a drone — you want to be in position that you see something you want to be able to capture.”

On the business side, he said many of his clients use his aerial photos in marketing or advertising. For instance, he took aerial photos of custom-built homes for a local homebuilder and a water tower constructed by an engineering firm.

He says the photo quality has improved since the days he strapped cameras onto drones he built himself, and the drone’s remote control

gives him the capabilities to adjust settings like the aperture, depth of field, and shutter speed just the same as on his still cameras.

Brad Fey took up drones as a hobby, but he’d love to make a career out of a couple of his endeavors.

A mortgage broker by day, Fey recently starting producing videos for realestate agent friends’ high-end homes. He says he strives to get cinematic-like footage of the exteriors and has another camera for interior video.

“The bigger and grander, the better it shows on film,” he says. “Those houses need more exposure because there’s not as many buyers for those highend homes.”

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Peter LaFemina

Peter LaFemina, a Penn State professor, has been flying drones inside volcanoes in Nicaragua since 2013.

He’s also involved in using drones to create three-dimensional maps for construction companies or engineering firms. He says he can program his drone to fly a pattern at a designated elevation to capture images that software will stitch together to create a map.

Not to mention he has an Instagram and Facebook account called Dronediculous he uses to post clips, and he’s working on a music video for his band, The Feats of Strength.

“I’ve only owned my drone for eight months and I’m looking to already upgrade,” he says. “It’s going to be used in so many different ways.

The list goes on and on, and if I can figure out how to be a part of that, it would be awesome to do that full time.”

In May, Gunnar Bergey hiked Tussey Mountain Trail to the mountain’s ridgetop, where he sent up a drone to record footage of the Trans-Sylvania Mountain

Bike Epic, a five-day race he organizes, for future promotions of the event.

He captured birds’-eye views that show the contours of the mountain. He flew close on the bikers from behind and alongside them as they moved through the course.

He hopes the footage will add another layer of appeal to the race, and he’s posted clips of the videos on the event’s Facebook page.

“When you’re watching the screen, especially when you’re up high ... it feels like you’re in a video game or you’re flying,” he says. “You can swoop around and go wherever you want. It’s really cool.”

South Hills School of Business and Technology offered its first drone pilots course this fall. It saw 20 enrollees over two sessions that taught flight safety and FAA regulations and included flying time, says Jeff Stachowski, the coordinator of the drone program.

Among the attendees was Craig Konkle from

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2017 December T&G - 49

Lycoming County’s Public Safety Department. His county is looking to start a drone program for emergency management.

For example, he says a drone can fly out over a flooded area to see just how much land is flooded and if there are people who need rescuing. A drone can survey the damage after a disaster or even whether the damage indicates a tornado struck. It can also be used for reconnaissance in hostage situations.

“There’s an endless list,” he says.

Michael Schafer, owner of Cool Pixx Media in State College, has a client who’d like drone videos and he was hoping to take the FAA test soon. And, he says the course

50 - T&G December 2017

gave him the chance to talk shop with his son, who is in the Navy’s flight school.

“Flying one of these guys,” Shafer says about the drone, “we can talk the same language.”

Melissa Steingrabe, a client care manager for local real estate agents, also took the course with the goal of taking aerial shots inside and outside of homes her agents are listing.

The instructor was Chuck Ferrell, a longtime TV news anchor who runs a video production company, Pennsylvania SkyOps, that exclusively uses drones.

“I was flying just as a hobbyist, and it blossomed into a business,” says Ferrell, who’s based in the Altoona area and works across the state.

He shot video of a farm in the Gettysburg area for an insurance company that wanted to make a map. He flew a drone to film the scaffolding on a 40-story building in Pittsburgh. He’s also shot a few news stories for WTAJ. Stachowski says South Hills plans to offer the course again in the spring. Recognizing the various professional uses for drones, the school plans to add drone-specific components to its law enforcement and graphic arts programs.

“The transformation from drones as toys to tools is under way,” Stachowski says. T&G Mike Dawson is a freelance writer who lives in College Township.

Empowering

Young Voices

By Holly Riddle

52 - T&G December 2017

For 20 years, students in the Nittany Valley Children’s Choir have learned ‘healthy singing’ – and lessons well beyond music

2017 December T&G - 53

Darren Andrew Weimert (7)

Nittany Valley Children’s Choir founder Lou Ann Shafer leads the Concordia group at a rehearsal.

C

elebrating 20 years, the Nittany Valley Children’s Choir has touched more than a thousand lives, producing young musicians with worldclass musical abilities, and welcoming families of all faiths and socioeconomic backgrounds into its folds.

In fact, this is one of the primary reasons behind local music educator Lou Ann Shafer’s founding of the choir.

“There was a need in our community,” she says. “At that time, there were lots of church choirs, but I wanted to start a choir that could include children from all over Centre County.”

After starting with just 25 students, the NVCC quickly amassed a following, and now, there are approximately 100 participants stretched across three separate groups — the

White Choir, for ages 4-7; the Blue Choir, ages 7-18, and Concordia, an audition-only choir without an age limit.

Throughout the growth, the NVCC retains its mission to

Meredith LeRoy

keep costs for participation low and accessible for all income brackets, with one of the lowest participation costs seen among children’s choirs not only in Pennsylvania, but across the United States.

Bahn Fleth

54 - T&G December 2017

“The hallmarks of our program are two pillars — a focus on healthy singing and excellent repertoire,” Shafer says. “It’s been what’s really helped our program to grow,

[and] the kids like our program. One they’re in it, they tend to stay in it, and their skills build tremendously over time. [Because of this], we were able to add an advanced level of choir, and have received national recognition for that.

I think all of those things together have helped us to grow and sustain our program.”

The NVCC’s national recognition comes in a variety of forms, but one of the top honors is the Concordia Singers’ performances at three American Choral Directors Association National Conferences, in 2007, 2011, and 2015.

The NVCC includes youngsters from ages 4 to 18 in three choirs.

Kurt Kroeker

“Being selected to sing at this conference is sort of like being chosen for the Olympics,” says Shafer. “It’s very, very stiff competition — children’s choirs from all over the United States submit applications and audition tapes. Our little small choir was selected for that honor

three times, so that’s very, very significant.”

Shafer gives kudos to her students.

“It’s a combination of all our hard work. The singers are extremely dedicated and they work very, very diligently and I do, too. We’re striving for excellence and in my mind,

when I am directing them, their potential is limitless because they can accomplish so much. … We’ve really been blessed with excellent singers.”

Her students, and their parents, return the compliment.

Talk to any of the NVCC alums, and you’ll hear a running theme: the entire Shafer family is unlike any other.

“Hands down, Mrs. Shafer was the one who molded me into the singer I am today, and I developed a passion for music from her instruction,” says Kara Eckert, who started out in the Blue Choir in second grade, transferring into the Concordia group as a high school freshman. Now a student at Susquehanna University, Eckert received a vocal performance scholarship and sings in the university’s choir.

2017 December T&G - 55

Adelynn LeRoy (above, moving) and other children play a singing game called “Bluebird.”

“While I’m no longer an active participant, I sit in on rehearsals when I’m home on break from college,” she says. “I miss being with the group that made my Saturday mornings so enjoyable. Being back in the familiar churches and singing our classic warmups, I’m reminded of all the great practices I had growing up.”

Eckert credits her NVCC experience with teaching her to blend, develop an ear for pitch and tone, and become detail-oriented where it mattered most. She was also introduced to a variety of music and learned to sing in a multitude of languages.

Beyond this, though, Eckert, as do many NVCC alums, says she learned traits 56 - T&G December 2017

above and beyond musical skills under Shafer’s tutelage.

“With Concordia, I performed at various events and conferences throughout the United States.

Between traveling and waiting to perform, I developed a good amount of patience.

Additionally, practices could last multiple hours and, in certain occasions, we rehearsed multiple times a day. With such a demanding schedule, we all had to be diligent and had to discipline ourselves to

Concordia seniors posing with Shafer (left) after their last concert in spring 2016 included (from left) Maggie Rothrock, Hope Bodenschatz, Cecilia Leskowicz, Alex Thomas, and Kara Eckert.

give our best effort during the entire practice.”

Mariana Corichi, who performed in Concordia from ages 12 to 18, and now sings in the Princeton Chamber Choir, notes a similar experience.

sufficiency, which in this instance involved properly memorizing and executing my part, knowing that if I did not give my best effort or actually messed up, I let down my entire section. Concordia is a team — everyone learns to

Currently three of her children participate — Lena (17), Esther (10), and Lydia (8).

“Mrs. Shafer has an ability to command the children’s attention without being in any way forceful. … I feel like all the children who are

“Concordia definitely forced me to learn discipline during, and outside of, rehearsal,” she says. “Concordia makes excellent music because Mrs. Shafer holds the choir to practically professional standards, so the singers have no room to slack off or rely on others. I learned the importance of self-

sing with and for each other, and only then can we make great music.”

As a parent, it’s nothing short of thrilling to watch a child grow within NVCC, at least that’s been a large part of Beth Clark’s experience.

A mother of seven, all of her children have performed with the choir at some point.

there, they want to be there,” Clark says. “They are eager and they come prepared and willing and ready to learn and sing together. She is very, very talented and she is doing exactly what she was made to do. It’s inspiring to watch her lead the choir.”

Clark has been in a unique position to watch how her

2017 December T&G - 57

children, each musical in their own right, have responded differently to their experience with NVCC. “For Lena, it has turned into something she’s extremely passionate about and really 58 - T&G December 2017

enjoys; she has been with the program since she started when she was 8. Then the others, it just gave them an opportunity to do something greater than themselves, even if they didn’t enjoy it as much as Lena did.

Esther is 10, and just this year, she auditioned for Concordia and was given a spot in the choir. …

She is probably the youngest member of that choir and it stretches her, because they have a two-hour practice every Saturday on top of the other practice for the Blue Choir. Her attention span [and musical abilities are] being challenged. She’s learning how to read music better and learning how to sing harmony better, and she’s doing great.”

For Clark, it’s an opportunity no parent should

Mariana Corichi (at center in bottom photo at left) and Kara Eckert (on the right in photo above) say they learned discipline in the NVCC.

pass up, if there’s an interest.

“I feel like the quality of the program would match that of any large-city children’s choir, or beat it. This opportunity for our children to sing under Lou Ann Shafer and her husband, Tim, who plays the piano, to have them lead these children, is an opportunity that shouldn’t be passed, if there is a child interested in singing with a choir. They’re just a topnotch, high-quality program.”

Clark’s daughter Lena echoes the sentiment, calling joining NVCC one of the best decisions she and her parents ever made. Lena is a member of several different choirs, including at State High, where she is currently a senior. As it’s her last year in Concordia before she graduates, she’s finding the experience bittersweet, even as she juggles a different choir practice every day of the week.

For Lena, one of the most valuable skills she’s learned in NVCC has been

leadership. “[My] most important developments that have come because of NVCC have been in the leadership realm. Mrs. Shafer is very good about giving older members of the choir a little bit more … responsibility. [It] helps you grow as a leader, as you advance through the ranks of NVCC.” It’s obvious that, for Shafer, growing her students’ skills in both music and otherwise is an essential part of her labor of love.

“We have several students who have started at age 4 and who continue through age 18,” she says. “It’s really neat. I don’t know of many choir directors or music teachers who get to have their kids for that length of time. It’s really a gratifying experience to see a child come to me at age 4, and not be able to sing very well and then to blossom into a fine, fine singer.

It’s very gratifying.”

Learning to sing, then, seems to translate fluidly to learning other skills, as she explains when describing how the group goes about learning a commissioned work.

“Singing a commissioned work is very special. No one else has ever sung it before,” Shafer says. “We get to learn it, we get to take it apart, we get to try to understand the poetry. Poetry is another big aspect of what we do. Of course, we’re singing words, so I try to choose excellent, beautiful, challenging poetry for the students to sing,

which we can peel apart in layers, trying to understand how to sing the music in a way that conveys the meaning of the poetry, and that’s a very intricate and complicated process.”

The NVCC is working on one such commissioned work in celebration of its 20th anniversary, but that’s hardly the only exciting thing on the group’s horizon.

All three choirs have been practicing each week in preparation for the upcoming holiday concert, and Concordia is preparing to perform at the Eastern Division American Choral Directors Association Conference, in Pittsburgh in April. The singers will premiere a selection from that performance at the holiday concert as well.

The Holiday Sing Concert is Friday, December15, at 7 p.m. at Gray’s Woods Catholic Church.

For parents considering enrolling their children into the NVCC, Clark says such concerts are a perfect opportunity to get a taste for what one can expect. “The concerts speak to the level of musicality and anyone interested in [joining], should come.” T&G The NVCC is taking new members in January; learn more at nittanyvalleychildrenschoir.org.

Holly Riddle is a freelance writer in State College.

2017 December T&G - 59

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Winter Craft Market, Saturday December 2

Support the Arts in Centre County and join us Saturday, December 2rd, 9:00am until 6:00 pm, for the 42nd Annual Winter Craft Market! Unique handmade items created by 70+ local artisans are great gift ideas. We appreciate all of our returning shoppers for their continued support and look forward to welcoming our new patrons. Thank you for shopping local and buying handmade!

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Woolrich Company Store

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Special Advertising Section - 63

Ace Hardware of State College

…is a great place for unique gift ideas. Our friendly staff is happy to help you in your Holiday hunt! Our large in-store selection and extensive catalog, for special orders, make Ace Hardware THE PLACE to complete your Holiday décor with Christmas lights, accent candles, and don’t forget all the fun and functional stocking stuffers like Craftsman Tool & Wrench Sets, NEBO flashlights, and Swiss Army Knives.

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The Animal Kingdom Children’s Store

Stop in this holiday season for the best assortment of plush animals, stocking stuffers and seasonal gifts for the young... and the young at heart! Our store offers an exceptional collection of toys, books and baby items as well as children’s apparel with high quality brands like Tea Collection, Zutano and See Kai Run shoes. We specialize in all things adorable and we’d love to add some merriment to your local shopping experience this year.

103 S. Allen Street, State College Downtown State College 814.237.2402 • www.theanimalkingdom.com

Bedford Candies Hand-Dipped and Homemade

Bedford Candies hand-dipped chocolates, gourmet popcorn and homemade fudge are made fresh daily in our store. Stop by our stores in Historic downtown Bedford and the Pleasant Valley Shopping Center Altoona to enjoy 18 flavors of popcorn daily, with 8 flavors changing bi-weekly. We carry a wide selection of homemade chocolates, truffles, gummies, retro candies and more. Our chocolates and popcorn are perfect for all occasions including weddings, showers, corporate celebrations, birthdays, anniversaries and more!

Pleasant Valley Shopping Center 3415 Pleasant Valley Blvd., Altoona, PA 16602 • 814.201.2105 • www.bedfordcandies.com 64 - Special Advertising Section

Happy Holidays Shop Downtown

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Centre Elite Gymnastics

Check out our home use gymnastics equipment sale!

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Chocolates by Leopold

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Happy Valley Spice, Vidal Blanc Ice Wine and Bondari are three wines certain to please the pallet over the course of the Holiday Season.

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Christine’s Hallmark

Let Christine’s be your one stop shopping destination for everyone on your holiday gift list. We offer a wide range of merchandise including Vera Bradley, Lizzy James jewelry, Yankee Candles, and so much more! We aren’t just your typical card store. Stop by and see what’s in store.

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Conklin’s Corner Antique & Gift Barn of Philipsburg

Is packed full of unique holiday décor and everyday gifts.

Our new boutique area has women’s fashion apparel and accessories including: Simply Noelle handbags, jackets, sweaters, scarves, and gloves, Mona B. canvas bags, Wind & Fire Bangles, Kameleon, and a variety of other gifts for that special someone. With over 10,000 sq. ft. of gift shop area, the barn is often called one of Central PA’s best kept secrets for unique items. Conklin’s Corner has extended Holiday Hours from Black Friday thru Dec. 23rd, open 7 days a week until 8pm.

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Seven Mountains Wine Cellars is now featuring their Twelve Days of Christmas Wine Case!

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Our beautiful lodge is decorated for the Holidays. Stop in for wine tasting and unique gift ideas for the wine lover on your list OR visit our wine bar “Mountains on Main”, conveniently located on the Diamond in Boalsburg!

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Gallery Shop Wonderful Holiday Gifts

Visit our gallery for delightful art & fine craft from talented Central PA artisans. It’s the best place to shop in Happy Valley!

Holiday Hours: Monday - Friday: 10:30am to 5:30pm Saturday: 10am to 5pm, Sunday: 1pm to 4pm

824 Pike Street, Lemont, PA 16851 814.867.0442 • www.Gallery-Shop.com

Goot Essa Gift Assortments

Looking for a gift that is unique AND delicious? Design your own gift assortment with Amish cheeses and other foods! Each cheese, spread and fudge are made from all natural ingredients and no added preservatives, from recipes and methods handed down for generations. Direct shipments include a personalized gift card.

Please call 800.490.4387 or email gootessacheese@gmail.com to request our FREE catalog or to place an order!

72 - Special Advertising Section

One time use only. Excludes sale items. Expires 12/ 31/17.

SHOP OUR GOURMET SELECTIONS OF HOMEMADE, HAND-DIPPED CHOCOLATE • GOURMET POPCORN FUDGE • GIFT BASKETS TRUFFLES • GUMMIES & MORE!

Downtown Bedford and ALTOONA’s Pleasant Valley Shopping Center OR ONLINE at WWW.BEDFORDCANDIES.COM (814) 623-1545

USE ONLINE Coupon code handdipped10 and receive 10% off CODE EXPIRES 12/31/17

Special Advertising Section - 73

Happy Valley Winery

Start a new family tradition for the holidays with Happy Valley Spice, a traditional German gluehwein with an old world taste. Genoa salami made locally with our Noiret wine that will make a memorable gift for those who enjoy a ‘taste of the valley.’ We have wine accessories for those special individuals on your holiday gift list.

576 S. Foxpointe Dr., State College, PA 814.308.8756 • www.thehappyvalleywinery.com

Come Discover the NEW Harper’s

Check out our new location next to the Tavern Restaurant!

We are the largest specialty clothing store in central PA, now with Women’s apparel and accessories from designer lines in the USA and Europe, including Isabel De Pedro, French Kyss, Alberto Makali, Malíparmi, Jude Connally, and more. From office wear, to casual weekend attire and nights out on the town, it’s the best place to shop in Happy Valley!

224 E College Ave, Downtown State College, PA 814.238.4767 • www.harpersstatecollege.com

Lion & Cub

Any true fan knows Christmas is not Red and Green, it’s Blue and White. Shop our large selection of Penn State clothing and memorabilia for the perfect holiday gift for the whole family. From Sweatshirts, T-Shirts, Jerseys, Hats, and Jackets to license plates, mugs, and more, Lion & Cub is your one-stop shop for blue and white fans!

206 E. College Ave., State College, PA 814.272.2621 • www.NittanyOutlet.com

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It’s not how it makes you look...

It’s how it makesIt’syou feel. how it makes you feel...

It’s not how it makes you look...

cret Worth Sharing

Facial Surgery Breast Surgery Body Contouring

-949-7280 | BlairPlasticSurgery.com 1952 Waddle Road, Suite 102

BlairPlasticSurgery.com | 814.234.1420 State College, PA 16803 NeckliFt, eyelid Surgery, Botox & FillerS Valid when you mention this ad until September 21, 2017

Special Advertising Section - 75

Mike’s Video, TV, & Appliance

Engineered to the highest standards, our premium materials and exceptional workmanship provide the kind of fit and finish you expect from a Bosch dishwasher.

*Free dishwasher installation on select Bosch models through December 31st.

1515 N. Atherton St., State College PA 16803 814.237.1515 • www.mikesvideo.com

Your Cigar Den

Looking for a gift for that person that has everything?

Come in and speak to one of our tobacconists, and you will know why we were voted one of the Best Places to Buy Gifts in State College. You may be surprised to learn that we don’t just sell cigars! We offer a variety of accessories for the refined lifestyle, from rare wood-handled lighters, to fine steak knives, and even a Crème Brulee torch.

127 South Fraser St., State College, PA On Calder way just behind the Corner Room 814.867.066 • www.YourCigarDen.com

Philly Pretzel Factory “Everyone Loves Pretzels!”

Our Christmas Gift Packs are a great present for family, friends, co-workers, neighbors ... everyone! Gift pack contains certificates for over $20 in FREE items including: Cinnamon Twist, Pretzel Twists, Pretzel Hot Dog, Small Dip, Rivet Shakers, Fountain Drink, Pizza Pretzel Over $20 value for only $10. Buy more than 1 book & save! Buy 2-9 books for $9 each, 10-19 for $8 each, 2029 for $7 each, 30-39 for $6 each, 40+ for only $5 each!

814.861.2150 373 Benner Pike (Inside Walmart), State College www.PhillyPretzelFactory.com/State-College-Walmart 76 - Special Advertising Section

Of f * 40%

Any ONE Item

*Must present this coupon for special offer.

Some exclusions apply. See store for details.

FREE Gift Wrapping

North Atherton Place 1637 N. Atherton St.

Conklin's Corner Antique & Gift Barn 20 Plus Dealer Antique Co-op Plus...Huge Country Gift Shop Including Amish Crafts & Accessories Thompson's & Swan Creek Candles & Melts Wind & Fire Bangles • Byers' Choice Carolers Handbag & Fashion Apparel

814.867.0744

Open 7 days a week until 8 p.m.

Black Friday thru December 23.

Christmas Room Overflowing with Unique Gifts Rt. 350, 670 Tyrone Pike • Philipsburg, PA 16866 • 342-0650 • www.ConklinsCornerBarn.com

Special Advertising Section - 77

Robin Hood Brewing Company

For the craft beer lover on your list, a Mug Club Membership to Robin Hood Brewing Company is the perfect gift this holiday season. Benefits include a free birthday dinner, 15% off merchandise, invitations to Bow & Arrow Club events such as special brew releases, and of course beer served in a special 18-ounce mug. Check out other great gift ideas from hats, ear warmers, fleeces, and t-shirts!

1796 Zion Rd, Bellefonte, PA 814.357.8399 • www.robinhoodbrewingco.com

Seven Mountains Wine Cellars says “Relish the Cranberry”!

No holiday gathering is complete without the fresh, crisp, taste of Seven Mountain’s award winning, 100% cranberry wine. Perfect to serve with a Thanksgiving turkey, and sure to become a family tradition! Don’t forget to check out our Wine Bar, “Mountains on Main” on the Diamond in Boalsburg, PA.

Main Location: 107 Mountain Springs Lane, Spring Mills only 20 minutes from State College, GPS use 324 Decker Valley Road Boalsburg Location: 101B North Main Street 814.364.1000 www.sevenmountainswinecellars.com

Simply Health Salt Spa

Known as the world’s natural ionizer and air purifier, salt lamps help alleviate symptoms caused by allergies, sleep disorders, migraine headaches, asthma, and so much more. Relax with a personal massage in a salt room or enjoy a jade massage with infrared heat. Whether it’s whole body vibration therapy, an 8-minute Bemer experience, amethyst biomat for reducing inflammation naturally, or one of our therapeutic monthly spa packages, Simply health Salt Spa is the place to come for better health. A perfect stress-free gift certificate for everyone in the family! Rare white Himalayan salt lamps now available!

1760 S. Atherton St. • State College, PA (In the Creekside Plaza with Honey Baked Ham) 814.954.7731 www.simplyhealth-calm.com 78 - Special Advertising Section

Home of Way CafĂŠ, Bakery & Deli Come enjoy a snack of an apple cider donut and Hot Mulled Apple Cider or even have homeade soup and a sandwich for lunch in the Way Cafe!

To place your orders for the holidays, call or stop by!

2355 Halfmoon Valley Road, Port Matilda 814-692-5211 • www.wayfruitfarm.com Mon-Fri. 8 a.m. -6:30 p.m. Sat. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Closed Sundays.

Special Advertising Section - 79

State Amusement Company

Table games are BIG this year, including Bubble Hockey, Air Hockey, Ping Pong, Foosball, Poker, and of course, Pool Tables! Maybe this is the year for a vintage pinball game!

State Amusement has it all- the best selection in town in and an educated showroom staff that can help you choose the best pool cue, chess set, poker chips, dart board, or other unique gift idea.

State Amusement has everything you need for your game room, including Penn State Pool Tables, Bar Stools, Penn State logo overhead lights, and lots more, for the ultimate Penn State Fan game room!

1358 E. College Avenue, State College 814.234.0722

Add Spirits to the Holidays!

Hungry Run Wine & Spirits, available at Squire Brown’s…

Hungry Run Spirits are crafted in a small barn in the rural countryside of Vira, PA. Our name derives from the Hungry Run stream that runs through the beautiful farmlands here in our valley. Hungry Run Spirits, Wine, and accessories are now available at Squire Brown’s, Reedsville.

Milroy exit of Rte. 322, Right at light, one mile on right (beside Honey Creek Inn Restaurant) Hours: Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 1-5 717.667.2556 • www.squirebrowns.com

Way Fruit Farm “Join us at the Farm”

Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or just need fresh apples for your holiday pies, we have it all! While you’re here at the farm, plan to stay awhile and enjoy a snack of an apple cider donut and Hot Mulled Apple Cider or even have homemade soup and a sandwich for lunch in the Way Café.

Need help with holiday baking? Our bakery has a full line of baked goods for you to take home and enjoy. To place your order for the holidays, call or stop by for the best availability for baked goods and gift baskets.

2355 Halfmoon Valley Road, Port Matilda 814.692.5211 • www.wayfruitfarm.com Mon - Fri. 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Sat. 8 a.m. - 5p.m.

Closed Sundays.

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“Your Hometown Gym” For 25 years, our mission has been to provide the facilities and programs to enhance fitness, athletic performance, health and quality of life.

Our Programs & Facilities include: • One-on-one training • Private and Semi-private Reformer Sessions • Wide Selection of Cardio, Selectorized Equipment and Free Weights • Nutrition Counseling • Massage Therapy • Child Care • Tanning • Silver Sneakers • Healthways Prime Group Fitness: Yoga, Pilates, HIIT, Spinning, Barre, Zumba and many more.

250 W. Hamilton Ave., State College, PA 16801 www.eastcoastfit.com • 234-9400

Holiday Gifts for your Penn State fan at Old State Clothing Co.

The official licensed Penn State merchandise store! PSU hoodie designs, pet accessories, sports & tshirts, popular jewelry, coasters, lion paw pottery, golf accessories, automobile gear, Gameday Couture (featured on Shark Tank), PSU blankets, and Christmas ornaments!

101 East Beaver Avenue, State College • 814.234.1415 • w w w.oldstate.com Special Advertising Section - 81

Give the Gift of Science!

Spark creativity, curiosity, and imagination this holiday season with memberships and passes for anyone on your list! Family or Grandparent memberships are available for $65-$75.One-day passes are available for $7 each.

Check out our expanded gift shop, where you can find unique, fun science gifts for children of all ages! Pencils, tornado tubes, fun jewelry, robot kits and more can be found at Discovery Space at our new location!

Discovery Space 1224 N. Atherton St., State College, PA 16803 814.234.0200 • MyDiscoverySpace.org

Pennsylvania Military Museum…

Community, Commonwealth, Country

The Pennsylvania Military Museum preserves and honors Pennsylvania’s military history from 1747 to the present, interpreting for citizens and visitors the story of the Commonwealth’s “Citizen Soldiers”, civilian activities on the home front, and the contributions of Pennsylvania industry to military technology. Visitors of all ages can enjoy indoor and outdoor exhibits, lectures, tours, and special programs year-round. Memberships are a great gift for the history buff on your list.

P.O. Box 160A, 51 Boalsburg, Avenue Boalsburg, PA 16827 814.466.6263 • www.pamilmuseum.org

Tussey Mountain Ski Area Gift Ideas

Winter is coming... get out and enjoy it! Tussey Mountain has snow that we recommend people come glide down, for fun!

Gift Cards can be purchased in any amount and can be used for Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowtubing and can even be used in the summer on Fun Centre activities, like Go-Karts or Mini Golf! But enough about that, its winter time -- our Learn To Ski package is a great way to pick up a healthy, life-long hobby and makes a great gift. Or, save up to 20% off with Tussey Money cards -- they never expire! Shop online, call us, email us or stop by the office -- we’re here to help you find a new and exciting gift for your hard-to-buy-for loved ones!

341 Bear Meadows Road, Boalsburg, PA 814.466.6266 • WWW.TUSSEYMOUNTAIN.COM 82 - Special Advertising Section

GENESIS® II E-410™

Receive up to a 15% rebate*

*With purchase of qualifying Bosch Kitchen Package.

1515 N. Atherton Street, State College, PA 16803 814. 237.1515 • mikesvideo.com

Happy

Holidays

From the staffs of Town&Gown and The Centre County Gazette, we’d like to say Thank You to all of our advertisers and readers for a wonderful 2017! We wish you the best of holiday seasons and hope you have a healthy and happy 2018!

Bryce Jordan Center

December Tim Weight

3 Penn State women’s basketball vs.

Manhattan 2 p.m.

4 Penn State men’s basketball vs.

Wisconsin 7 p.m.

6 Penn State women’s basketball vs.

Fordham 6 p.m.

9 Penn State men’s basketball vs.

George Washington 4 p.m.

12, 13 Paw Patrol Live!

6 p.m. Tues., 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Weds.

19 Penn State men’s basketball vs.

Binghamton 7 p.m.

22 Penn State men’s basketball vs. Rider 7 p.m.

30 Penn State men’s basketball vs.

Coppin State 2 p.m.

31 Penn State women’s basketball vs.

Maryland 2 p.m.

86 - T&G December 2017

T& G

what's happening

December

1-2

8

Get in the holiday spirit with a pair of traditional Christmas celebrations: a German-style “Weihnachtsmarkt” at the Granary in Lemont, and Boalsburg Hometown Christmas.

8-10

The Arboretum at Penn State hosts its annual Winter Celebration in the H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens. Check out the holiday trees and listen to some a cappella music!

10 Keep the festive spirit going at Bellefonte Victorian Christmas, with a weekend full of everything from horse-drawn carriage rides to high tea.

17

The Pennsylvania Centre Orchestra presents a holiday favorite, Handel’s Messiah, with the Orpheus Singers and vocal soloists at the State Theatre.

31 Penn State’s NCAA championship wrestling squad has just one home meet this month, against Indiana in Rec Hall.

To have an event listed in “What’s Happening,” e-mail mbrackenbury@barashmedia.com

Help put 2017 on ice at First Night State College, featuring elaborate ice sculptures and a multitude of performances and indoor and outdoor activities. Happy 2018!

2017 December T&G - 87

2 – Junior Woman’s Club of State College Elves’ Gift Shop, Park Forest Middle School, 9:30 a.m., jwcsc.com 2, 3, 9, 10 – Design Your Own Gift, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., schlowlibrary.org 2, 3, 9, 10 – Polar Express, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., schlowlibrary.org 2, 3 – Harold and the Purple Crayon, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., schlowlibrary.org 16, 30 – Saturday Stories Alive, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 11 a.m., schlowlibrary.org 31 – First Night Celebration, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 1 p.m., schlowlibrary.org 31 – Mr. Music, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC 1:30 and 3 p.m., schlowlibrary.org

Class and Lectures 1 – Paper Views Conversation: Recent Gifts from the Fishman-MacElderry Collection, Palmer Museum of Art, Penn State, 1 p.m., palmermuseum.psu.edu 1 – Car Seat Safety Check, Mount Nittany Health-Boalsburg, Boalsburg, 8 a.m., mountnittany.org 9 – Schlow Labs: Digital Photo Storage Solutions, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 10:30 a.m., schlowlibrary.org 14 – Free parents-to-be class, Mount Nittany Medical Center, SC, 7 p.m., mountnittany.org 16 – Free Introductory Karate Classes, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 2 p.m., schlowlibrary.org

Club Events 1, 8, 15, 22 – Comics Club, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 3:30 p.m., schlowlibrary.org 2, 9, 16, 30 – Chess Club, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 2 p.m., schlowlibrary.org

88 - T&G December 2017

Penn State

Children & Families

Pianist Tae Kim will perform December 3 at 1 p.m. as part of the Palmer Museum of Art's Sunday Afternoon Concert Series.

4, 18 – Knitting Club, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 5:30 p.m., schlowlibrary.org 5, 12, 19, 26 – State College Downtown Rotary, Ramada Inn & Conference Center, SC, noon, centrecounty.org/rotary/club 6, 20 – Outreach Toastmasters, The 329 Building, Room 413, PSU, noon, kbs131@psu.edu 9 – Boardgaming Meetup, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 10 a.m., schlowlibrary.org 12 – Women’s Club Mid-Day Connection, Mountain View Country Club, Boalsburg, 11:45 a.m., 404-3704 13 – Women’s Welcome Club of State College Holiday Party, Oakwood Presbyterian Church, SC, 7 p.m.

13 – 148th PA Volunteer Infantry Civil War Reenactment Group, Hoss’s Steak and Sea House, SC, 7 p.m., 861-0770 14 – Schlow Stitchers, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 6 p.m., schlowlibrary.org 16 – Lego Club, Schlow Centre Region Library, SC, 2 p.m., schlowlibrary.org 18 – Parrots Owner’s Group, Perkins, SC, 7 p.m., 237-2722

Community Associations & Development 19 – Spring Creek Watershed Association, Patton Township Municipal Building, SC, 7:30 a.m., springcreekwatershed.org 27 – Patton Township Business Association, Patton Township Municipal Building, SC, noon, 237-2822

Exhibits 1 – Paper Views Exhibition: Recent Gifts from the Fishman-MacElderry Collection, Palmer Museum of Art, Penn State, 10 a.m., palmermuseum.psu.edu 2 – Friends of the Palmer Museum of Art Annual Holiday Art and Ornament Sale, Palmer Museum of Art, Penn State, 10 a.m., palmermuseum.psu.edu

3 – Docent Choice Tour: My Birthday Present to Myself: My Favorites, Palmer Museum of Art, Penn State, 3 p.m., palmermuseum.psu.edu 6 – The Art of Poetry, Palmer Museum of Art, Penn State, 12:10 p.m., palmermuseum.psu.edu 10 – Docent Choice Tour: American Art, American History, Palmer Museum of Art, Penn State, 3 p.m., palmermuseum.psu.edu 17 – Docent Choice Tour: Portraits through the Ages, Palmer Museum of Art, Penn State, 3 p.m., palmermuseum.psu.edu

Health Care

6 – Breast Cancer Support Group, Mount Nittany Medical Center, SC, 5:30 p.m., mountnittany.org 10 – Ostomy Support Group, Mount Nittany Medical Center, SC, 2 p.m., mountnittany.org

works “As a State College business owner, I feel it’s so important to be involved in the local community. Town&Gown has been a big part of that for as long as I can remember.

I know I love to grab the newest issue to see the cool events and local activities that are upcoming. The Milestone edition is always my favorite. I began advertising in Town&Gown in April 2017 for our grand opening event and couldn’t believe the amount of people who came in to the store not even knowing we existed until they saw our ad in the magazine. (We were formerly Barbara’s Hallmark since 1997). In a time when shopping online is made so simple, I think it’s so important to let the community know that we’re here. We’re local, and after your first visit, we call you family.

Deb and all the staff at Barash have been so good to me.”

— Christine Willnecker, Christine’s Hallmark® 2017 December T&G - 89

Stephanie Swindle/Penn State

The Penn State School of Music's "Mosaic" concert is December 3 at 4 p.m. in Eisenhower Auditorium.

13 – Basic Life Support (BLS) – Provider, Mount Nittany Medical Center, SC, 7:30 a.m.,mountnittany.org 14 – Diabetes Support Group, Mount Nittany Medical Center, SC, 6 p.m., mountnittany.org 18 – Cancer Survivors’ Association, Pink Zone Resource Center in the Cancer Pavilion at Mount Nittany Medical Center, SC, 11:30 a.m., 238-6220 20 – Alzheimer’s Support Group, Elmcroft Senior Living, 6:30 p.m., 235-7675 21 – Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) – Provider, Mount Nittany Medical Center, SC, 7:30 a.m., mountnittany.org 21 – Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) – Renewal, Mount Nittany Medical Center, SC, 7:30 a.m., mountnittany.org 21 – Parents-to-Be: HEIR & Parents Hospital Tour for Expectant Parents, Mount Nittany Medical Center, SC, 6:30 p.m., mountnittany.org

90 - T&G December 2017

Music

2 – At Last: An Evening with Etta & Ella, The State Theatre, SC, 7 p.m., thestatetheatre.org 3 – School of Music “Mosaic,” Eisenhower Auditorium, Penn State, 4 p.m., music.psu.edu 3 – Sunday Afternoon Concert Series: D.M.A Solo Recital, Palmer Museum of Art, Penn State, 1 p.m., palmermuseum.psu.edu 4 – Penn State Campus Band and Campus Orchestra, Eisenhower Auditorium, Penn State, 7:30 p.m., visitpennstate.org 5 – Penn State Concert Band and Symphonic Band, Eisenhower Auditorium, Penn State, 8 p.m., visitpennstate.org 7 – Penn State Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Eisenhower Auditorium, Penn State, 7:30 p.m., visitpennstate.org 8 – Jazz in the Attic Presents: Charlie Brown, The State Theatre, SC, 8 p.m., thestatetheatre.org

9 – Essence of Joy: Our Gift in Song, Worship Hall, Pasquerilla Spiritual Center, 7:30 p.m., visitpennstate.org 10 – PA Chamber Orchestra, Messiah, The State Theatre, SC, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., thestatetheatre.org

Theater

7 – Thank You, Jimmy Stewart!, In the Attic of The State Theatre, SC, 7 p.m., thestatetheatre.org 9 – Central Pennsylvania Dance Workshop Presents: Home for the Holidays, The State Theatre, 7:30 p.m., thestatetheatre.org 14, 23, 28 – Holiday Dinner Theatre, Duffy’s Boalsburg Tavern, Boalsburg, 6 p.m., duffystavernpa.com.

15-17 – Annie, the Musical, Jr., Sloan Auditorium at Lock Haven University, Lock Haven, 7 p.m., 5 p.m., 8 p.m., 2 p.m., millbrookplayhouse.net

Special Events

1 – First Friday Downtown, Downtown SC, 5 p.m., downtownstatecollege.com 1, 2 – 9th Annual Christmas in Lemont, Lemont Village Green, Lemont, 5 p.m. and 10 a.m., visitpennstate.org 1, 2 – Boalsburg Hometown Christmas, Boalsburg, visitpennstate.org 1-3 – Stocking Stuffer Antiques, Art & Fine Craft Sale, Centre Furnace Mansion, SC, 9 a.m. and noon, visitpennstate.org 2 – Sampling Saturday: From Hot Toddies to Yule Mules, Tait Farm Harvest Shop, Centre Hall, 2 p.m., visitpennstate.org 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 – Millheim Farmers Market, Hosterman & Stover Hardware Store, Millheim, 10 a.m., visitpennstate.org 3 – 34th Annual Nittany Valley HalfMarathon, Snider Agricultural Arena, Penn State, 10 a.m., visitpennstate.org 3 – Alternative Christmas Fair, University Baptist and Brethren Church, SC, 11 a.m., ubbcwelcome.org/alternative-christmas-fair

Up to the minute Penn State and local football coverage.

News all day. Your way.

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@centredaily

Digital e-edition and unlimited access subscriptions available.

92 - T&G December 2017

Tim Weight

3 – Taste of the Town, The Penn Stater Conference Center, Penn State, 6 p.m., visitpennstate.org 5 – Sip and Paint, Duffy’s Boalsburg Tavern, Boalsburg, 6 p.m., duffystavernpa.com.

5, 12, 19, 26 – Boalsburg Farmers Market, St. John’s United Church of Christ, Boalsburg, 2 p.m., visitpennstate.org 5, 12, 19, 26 – Tuesday State College Farmers Market, Municipal Building, SC, 11:30 a.m., visitpennstate.org 7 – Charity Ball Committee Fashion Show, Diamonds and Lace Bridal Boutique, SC, 7 p.m., mountnittany.org 7 – Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Tribute, Pennsylvania Military Museum, Boalsburg, 7 p.m., visitpennstate.org 8 – The Arboretum at Penn State’s Winter Celebration, H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens in The Arboretum at Penn State, 5 p.m., visitpennstate.org 8-10 – Bellefonte Victorian Christmas, Bellefonte, bellefontevictorianchristmas.com

Bellefonte will be adorned in its holiday best for Victorian Christmas December 8-10.

Bellefonte Victorian Christmas DECEMBER 8th & 9th 2017

Bellefonte Victorian Christmas offers a taste of Christmas Past with the Dickens Troupe, an Arts & Crafts Show, concerts, horse-drawn buggy rides, gingerbread house contest, Santa Express Dec. 15-17 tickets on sale Nov. 1, strolling entertainment, breakfast with Santa and Gala with Dickens & Company!

Year!

New This an’s Club Wom te n fo le el Bus Tour B n Wheels History O

www.bellefontechamber.org www.bellefontevictorianchristmas.com 2017 December T&G - 93

Steve Tressler/Vista Professional Studios

8-10 – Festival of Trees, Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology, Pleasant Gap, ccunitedway.org/ festival-trees 9 – Sampling Saturday: Small Plates for Holiday Entertaining, Tait Farm Harvest Shop, Centre Hall, 2 p.m., visitpennstate.org 9, 10 – Santa in the Cave, Lincoln Caverns, Huntingdon, 1 p.m., visitpennstate.org 12, 13 – Paw Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure, Bryce Jordan Center, Penn State, 6 p.m. Tues., 10 a.m., and 6 p.m. Weds., bjc.psu.edu 16 – Sampling Saturday: Holiday Bakers, Tait Farm Harvest Shop, Centre Hall, 2 p.m., visitpennstate.org 31 – First Night State College, Downtown, SC, 10 a.m., firstnightstatecollege.com

Sports

Tim Weight

3 – Penn State Women’s Basketball vs.

Manhattan, Bryce Jordan Center, Penn State, 2 p.m., gopsusports.com 4 – Penn State Men’s Basketball vs.

Wisconsin, Bryce Jordan Center, Penn State, 7 p.m., gopsusports.com 6 – Penn State Women’s Basketball vs.

Fordham, Bryce Jordan Center, Penn State, 6 p.m., gopsusports.com

The schedule heats up for Josh Reaves and teammates in December, as the Penn State men’s basketball team hosts five games at the Bryce Jordan Center.

94 - T&G December 2017

Resolve to welcome the New Year at First Night State College on December 31.

9 – Penn State Men’s Basketball vs.

George Washington, Bryce Jordan Center, Penn State, 4 p.m., gopsusports.com 9 – Penn State Men’s Ice Hockey vs.

Robert Morris, Pegula Ice Arena, Penn State, 7 p.m., gopsusports.com 17 – Penn State Wrestling vs. Indiana, Rec Hall, Penn State, 1 p.m., gopsusports.com 19 – Penn State Men’s Basketball vs.

Binghamton, Bryce Jordan Center, Penn State, 7 p.m., gopsusports.com 22 – Penn State Men’s Basketball vs.

Rider, Bryce Jordan Center, Penn State, 7 p.m., gopsusports.com 30 – Penn State Men’s Basketball vs.

Coppin State, Bryce Jordan Center, Penn State, 2 p.m., gopsusports.com 31 – Penn State Women’s Basketball vs.

Maryland, Bryce Jordan Center, Penn State, 2 p.m., gopsusports.com T&G

T& G

on tap

A Mad Holiday Tradition Popular Tröegs’ Elf brews reflect the festive spirit of the season

By David Pencek If it’s the holiday season, it means one thing for Tröegs Brewery in Hershey: Mad Elf season.

Since Tröegs came out with the big Belgian-style beer (11 ABV) in 2003, it has become one of the brews many craftbeer lovers most look forward to each year. Mad Elf, which is available from mid-October through December, also is one of the beers that helped put Tröegs on the craft-beer map.

“It’s really found a place in people’s holiday traditions,” says Jeff Herb, marketing communications coordinator for Tröegs. “We think it gives them something to look forward to. The festive nature of the beer echoes the sentiments of the holiday season.”

Mad Elf includes chocolate, Munich, and pilsner malts; Hallertau and Saaz hops; spicy Belgian yeast, and, of course, cherries and honey. The brewers recommend it be served at 50 to 55 degrees.

In 2006, the beer was rated the top Christmas beer by Joe Sixpack (aka Don Russell, an award-winning Philadelphia writer) in his book, Christmas Beer: The Cheeriest, Tastiest, Most Unusual Beers of Christmas.

96 - T&G December 2017

About Mad Elf, Russell wrote, “Though it’s brewed with honey and tart Pennsylvania cherries, the dominant character here is a ginger and clove spiciness, a product of its unique pair of Belgian yeast strains. Think fruitcake, but not the awful one made by your Aunt Bertha.”

Herb shares the story of how Mad Elf originated. In 2002, Tröegs founders Chris and John Trogner started talking about the upcoming holidays and wanting to brew a special beer to celebrate the holiday season.

They wanted something that could be enjoyed from Thanksgiving through New Year’s.

The talk led to a big Belgian-style ale brewed with cherries and honey. On the first brew day, they added the fruit and honey to the mix and went home for the night. When they returned, nearly half the batch had bubbled down the drain.

“There was a strong fruity aroma in the air,” John Trogner says. “We ran back to the fermentation cellar and there was this foamy mess all over the floor.”

The setback didn’t deter them, and a year later, the first bottling of Mad Elf happened.

Surprisingly to them, it was an immediate hit.

“Mad Elf appealed not just to beer lovers, but also people who usually don’t drink beer the rest of the year,” Herb says. “Over time, it eventually became an essential part of the holidays for many people. It’s really found a place in people’s holiday traditions.”

Which is what the Trogners had wanted.

They believed the 11-percent ABV brew would “brighten moods during holiday gatherings … and help bridge the divide between beer and wine.”

Herb says no matter how much Mad Elf Tröegs brews each year it never seems enough. “We try to brew enough each year to allow for slow, steady growth wherever our beer is sold,” he says.

Tröegs started brewing in Harrisburg 20 years ago, but as the brewery grew, it needed to move its operation to a bigger space. In 2011, the new Tröegs brewery opened in Hershey.

Mad Elf has become the basis for other creative brews from the Trogner brothers. Naked Elf was about “deconstructing Mad Elf to its basic

essentials and highlight the spicy Belgian yeast that is a key flavor characteristic of the beer.”

The brewers pulled out the cherries, honey, and chocolate malt to showcase notes of cinnamon, allspice, clove, and tangy fruity esters.

Wild Elf includes Balaton cherries grown in Adams County. The beer then goes through a long, secondary fermentation in wood barrels and is a bottle-conditioned limited release.

“Since 2010, back when our brewery was still in Harrisburg, we’ve been squirreling away Mad Elf in oak barrels, and each one has developed differently,” John Trogner says. “Some have notes of toasted vanilla and coconut, others are dominated by a sour acidity, and the oldest are rich with deep, raisiny stone fruit.”

Then, just last month, Tröegs, in celebration of its 20th anniversary, released The Mad Elf Grand Cru. Herb says the brewery likes to think of it as the Mad Elf “Director’s Cut.” “This special limited cork and cage bottle release will be chock-full of tart Balaton cherries, wildflower honey, and demerara sugar, and will elevate Mad Elf to a whole new level,” he says. “The addition of the Balaton cherries will produce a more prominent tart pucker compared to standard Mad Elf.” As friends and families prepare to gather together around cozy fires and lighted trees, many also will be sharing glasses of Mad Elf. In fact, some go to great lengths to make sure the beer is part of their holiday tradition.

“Last year, Chris helped a grandmother load some Mad Elf cases into her car,” Herb says. “She told him that her family would sit around the fire, drink Mad Elf, and decorate the tree together. It was like a family tradition. She also mentioned that since moving to West Virginia, she wasn’t able to buy it there, since Tröegs doesn’t distribute to West Virginia. She was forced to seek it elsewhere to keep the tradition alive!

“In essence, she had to bootleg Mad Elf to continue her family tradition!” T&G David Pencek is communications manager for Schlow Centre Region Library.

2017 December T&G - 97

This Month

on

Pennsylvania Folklore: Woven Together

Carnivale di Venezia

Premieres Thursday, December 21, at 8 p.m.

Explore some of the many textile arts that can be found throughout the state, examining the traditions behind them and the motivations of the craftspeople creating them.

26th Annual Connoisseur’s Dinner & Auction Please join WPSU for our 26th annual fundraising reception and dinner when we present an evening inspired by a Venetian Carnivale. PBS television celebrity chef Nick Stellino will lead you through the four courses and talk about the personal meaning for him that inspired each dish.

Saturday, February 10, 2018, reception at 6 p.m.

Alumni Ballroom, the Nittany Lion Inn

Tickets $205 per person

Register to attend a free advance screening at the State Theatre in State College, Tuesday, December 19, at 7 p.m.

Make your reservations at wpsu.org/conndinner or contact Tamra Fatemi by phone at 814-863-6635 or email at trf14@psu.edu.

wpsu.org/woven

COMING TO WPSU-TV

My Greek Table Premieres Sunday, December 31, at noon Greece, birthplace of the Mediterranean Diet and a wisdom embracing environmental, physical, and emotional well-being is the backdrop for this unique 13-part tapestry of culture, travel, food and lifestyle.

Diane Kochilas guides viewers in search of authentic ingredients and traditions that are part of the Greek kitchen–easy, delicious, healthy recipes, any cook at any skill level can make.

wpsu.org

DECEMBER For additional program information, visit wpsu.org.

2017 December T&G - 99

T& G

Taste of the Month

Bon ApĂŠritifs

& Sweet Endings

Celebrate the holidays with feast-like extravagance, pairing good company with lively libations and sweet desserts

Aime e’s Cranberry Pecan Tart

100 - T&G December 2017

By Vilma Shu Danz Photos by Darren Andrew Weimert

I

It’s that time of year when friends and family gather around a table to give thanks and to share in the end-of-year festivities. There are different traditions and favorite dishes that make up the main course and its accompanying sides.

However, while everyone is fussing over the turkey or the ham, guests sometimes forget to save room for dessert. And while we are at it, why not begin the fun with an aperitif or two to excite the taste buds?

Willis Peachey’s Rum Cake From James Bond’s shaken, not stirred vodka martini to sweet vermouth on the rocks with a twist that reminds Rita of Rome in the film Groundhog Day, aperitifs have appeared in movies, but have only recently played a starring role in the American food culture. The word apéritif (in French) or aperitivo (in Italian) shares etymology with the English word aperture, or opening. For that reason, an aperitif is an appetite-

stimulating cocktail served to mingling guests before the much-anticipated holiday meal or dinner party.

The pre-meal drinks are especially popular in France and Italy where they have been made for centuries dating back to the Middle Ages.

Modern aperitifs were most likely born out of medicinal spirits created in the 16th century by infusing liquor with a blend of herbs, spices, and roots believed to cure all kinds of ills. In 1846, Parisian chemist and wine merchant Joseph Dubonnet created a formula to make quinine more palatable for soldiers fighting off malaria in North Africa.

Dubonnet is still a commonlyused ingredient in cocktail bars around the world.

Many aperitifs have a bitter component to them, although they don’t necessarily need that; they tend to be dry cocktails that

2017 December T&G - 101

are not too sweet or creamy.

The best aperitifs include gin, vermouth, dry wines, bitters, or distilled spirits like Campari and Aperol.

Although we toast to the French and Italians for pioneering the tradition of aperitifs, here in the United States, the aperitif is making a comeback with the resurgence of classic concoctions such as the Manhattan, which combines rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, and the Negroni made with gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.

The opposite of an aperitif is a digestif, which is typically served at the end of a meal. It is essentially a dessert cocktail.

Like the word suggests, the drink aids in digestion and typically, it can be on the sweeter side and can even replace dessert altogether.

Of course, no holiday dinner is complete without a stunning sweet finish like icing on the cake! From fruitcake to rum cake, cookies, tarts and pies, the staff of Barash Media gathered a few of our favorite aperitifs and desserts to share with our readers this holiday season.

102 - T&G December 2017

Debbie’s Hot Mulled Cider

Rum Cake

By Willis Peachey (Cody Peachey’s Father) 1 box yellow cake mix 2 French vanilla Jello pudding mix 4 large eggs 1/2 cup oil 1/2 cup water 1/2 cup Bacardi Gold rum 1 cup chopped pecans and walnuts Mix together on medium speed for 2 minutes. Grease Bundt pan, do not flour. Add nuts in the bottom of Bundt pan. Pour batter in on top of the nuts and bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour.

Glaze 1 stick of butter (melted) 1 cup sugar 1/8 cup water 1/2 cup of Bacardi Gold rum In sauce pan, melt butter and stir in sugar. Add water a little at a time until sugar is dissolved.

After glazing liquid has cooled, add rum. Prick cake with large fork. Pour glaze over cake.

Sean’s Cof fee Cake Cookies

Cranberry Pecan Tart

By Aimee Aiello

Crust 1 1/3 cups flour 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 cup Crisco shortening 3-4 tbsp. cold water

Becky Bernhard’s Fruit Cake

Filling 3 eggs 2/3 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup corn syrup 1/4 cup butter (melted and cooled) 1/2 tsp. salt 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 cup pecans 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh cranberries Combine flour and salt. Cut in the Crisco with a pastry blender until flour is in crumbly pea-sized pieces. Sprinkle with water, 1 tbsp. at a time, until dough forms a ball.

Roll dough out to fit a tart pan.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Line crust with foil and add pie weights or dried beans. Bake 10 minutes, then remove pie weights and let cool 15 minutes. Reduce oven to 350 degrees.

Whisk eggs in a medium bowl.

Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, salt, vanilla extract. Fold in pecans and cranberries. Pour into crust. Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 20 minutes. Let cool completely before serving.

2017 December T&G - 103

Fruit Cake

By Becky Bernhard (Lana Bernhard’s grandmother) 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup white sugar 1 cup canola oil 2 eggs 3/4 cup orange juice 3/4 cup boiling water 2 tsp. baking soda 1 cup flour 1 2/3 cups raisins 2 cups dates (cut up) 2 cups mixed candied fruit 1 cup pecans (broken) In a large bowl, cream brown sugar, white sugar, and canola oil.

Add eggs, orange juice, boiling water, and baking soda.

In a separate bowl, mix with flour, raisins, dates, mixed candied fruit, and pecans. Add to above cake mixture and mix well. Put all into greased and floured Bundt pan.

Put Bundt pan in a separate baking pan filled with some water at 275 degrees for 2½ hours.

Vilma’s Mandarin Revolver

Coffee Cake Cookie

By Sean Yoder

1 pkg. dry yeast 1/4 cup lukewarm water 1 tsp. salt 1/4 cup sugar 1 cup shortening 4 cups flour 1 cup milk 2 eggs 1 cup brown sugar 1 tsp. cinnamon Put flour, salt, and sugar in bowl. Cut in shortening. Dissolve yeast in water.

Scald milk and cool. Combine eggs with milk. Add yeast. Add liquid to flour. Mix lightly until flour is moist.

Do not knead. Refrigerate overnight.

Divide dough in half. Roll out like 104 - T&G December 2017

cinnamon rolls. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle on rolled out dough. Roll up and cut in 5/8 inch slices. Place on cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.

Yield: 4 dozen.

Icing 4 tbsp. butter 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 1 tsp. vanilla Melt and brown butter. Add powdered sugar and vanilla.

Blend with hot water until icing can be spread.

Hot Mulled Apple Cider

By Debbie Markel 1 orange (sliced) 1 lemon (sliced) 1 quarts apple cider (Way Fruit Farm) 1 (12-oz) bottle of hardpressed cider (Happy Valley Vineyard & Winery) 1/2 tbsp. whole cloves 1 tbsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. allspice (optional) Cinnamon sticks

Heat apple cider, cinnamon sticks, orange and lemon slices, cinnamon powder, and cloves to a boil over high heat for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Add hard-pressed cider and heat through. Do not boil. Pour cider through strainer and remove spices and fruit slices.

Serve while hot.

Christmastini

By Mark Brackenbury

The Mandarin Revolver

By Vilma Shu Danz

2 ounces bourbon 1/2 ounce coffee liqueur 2 dashes orange bitters 1 ounce mandarin orange kombucha (store-bought GT brand Original kombucha with a splash of orange juice is a good substitute if you don’t brew your own)

Combine bourbon, coffee liqueur, orange bitters, and kombucha in a mixing glass and fill with ice. Stir well until chilled, about 30 seconds.

Strain into chilled cocktail glass. Twist orange peel to express oils over drink and use as garnish. T&G

2.5 ounces Stoli Vanil (or another vanilla vodka) 1 ounce (green) creme de menthe 1/2 ounce white (clear) creme de cacao Garnish: maraschino cherry Mix in a cocktail shaker with cracked ice, pour into a martini glass, and drop a maraschino cherry in.

Mark’s Christmastini

2017 December T&G - 105

T& G

dining out

All restaurants are in State College or on the Penn State campus, and in the 814 area code unless noted.

Full Course Dining bar bleu, 114 S. Garner St., 237-0374, bar-bleu.com. Socializing and sports viewing awaits at bar bleu. Don’t miss a minute of the action on 22 true 1080i HDMI high-definition flat-screen monitors displaying the night’s college and pro matchups. The bar serves up 16 draft beers in addition to crafted cocktails, including the “Fishbowl,” concocted in its own 43-ounce tank! Pub fare featuring authentic Kansas Citystyle barbecue is smoked daily on-site. AE, D, DC, ID+, MC, V. Full bar.

Barrel 21 Distillery & Dining, 2255 N. Atherton St., 308-9522, barrel21distillery.com.

Barrel 21 offers a unique gastro-distillery dining experience that features our one of a kind spirits and beer which are made on premise. Our menu of rotating seasonal items blends classic dishes with current trends to deliver new and interesting presentations for our guests to enjoy. Sunday brunch is a favorite with madeto-order omelets, Bloody Mary bar, and full buffet, including Irving’s bagels, house-made pastries, and much more. Happy Hour is from 4 to 6 p.m.Tuesday through Friday, featuring half-price Barrel 21 spirits and Otto’s beer. Our tasting room also is open if you would like to take a bottle home with you, and our private dining room is available for your special event. We look forward to seeing you at Barrel 21!

Carnegie Inn & Spa Restaurant, 100 Cricklewood Drive, 234-2424. An exquisite boutique hotel offering fine dining in a relaxed yet gracious atmosphere. Your dining experience begins with a wide array of appetizers and entrees that compare to the best restaurants of the largest cities in the United States. Additionally, the Carnegie Inn & Spa Restaurant wine list is one of the best in the area and features a wide variety of wines from California, France, and other countries.

Reservations suggested. AE, MC, D, V. Full bar.

106 - T&G December 2017

Cozy Thai Bistro, 232 S. Allen St., 237-0139. A true authentic Thai restaurant offering casual and yet “cozy” family-friendly dining experience. Menu features wide selections of exotic Thai cuisine, both lunch and dinner (take-out available). BYO (wines and beer) is welcome after 5 p.m. AE, D, DC, MAC, MC, V. The Deli Restaurant, 113 Hiester St., 2375710, The DeliRestaurant.com. Since 1973, The Deli has served up New York-style deli favorites on an American menu offering everything from comfort food to pub favorites, all made from scratch. Soups, breads, sauces, and awardwinning desserts are homemade here early in the morning folks. Look for its rotating menu of food- themed festivals throughout the year. AE, D, DC, LC, MC, V. Full bar.

The Dining Room at the Nittany Lion Inn, 200 W. Park Ave., 865-8590. Fine continental cuisine in a relaxed, gracious atmosphere. Casual attire acceptable. Private dining rooms available.

AE, D, DC, MAC, MC, V. Full bar.

Duffy’s Boalsburg Tavern, On the Diamond, Boalsburg, 466-6241. The Boalsburg Tavern offers a fine, intimate setting reminiscent of Colonial times.

Dining for all occasions with formal and casual menus, daily dinner features, specials, and plenty of free parking. AE, MC, V. Full bar.

Key AE............................................................American Express CB ...................................................................Carte Blanche D ................................................................. Discover/Novus DC.........................................................................Diners Club ID+ ................................................ PSU ID+ card discounts LC............................................................................. LionCash MAC........................................................................debit card MC........................................................................MasterCard V.......................................................................................... Visa ............................................... Handicapped-accessible

To advertise, call Town&Gown account executives Nicohl Gezvain or Debbie Markel at (814) 238-5051.

Visit

Presenting Our Holiday Dinner Theatre

Boalsburg DUFFY’S

T A V E R N

Love and Light Productions

Scrooge, Marley & Me

A lightly-interactive dinner theatre play – that all will enjoy.

December 14, 23, & 28 at 6pm Make your reservations at DuffysTavernPA.com

A Perfect Holiday Gift

North Country Beer Pairing - Jan. 25 - 6 Beers & 5 Courses

Make your reservations at DuffysTavernPA.com

Sip & Paint - Dec. 5 at 6pm

Holiday Gift Certif icates Available.

Call Duffy’s Tavern for Reservations.

DuffysTavernPA.com 113 East Main Street, Boalsburg PA 16827

Be Sure to Like Us on Facebook 814.466.6241

Appetizers Sampler

We have the best bagels in State College!

MONDAYS & TUESDAYS BUY ONE DOZEN, GET 4 FREE BAGELS available at

COZY THAI BISTRO 232 S. Allen Street.

State College, PA 16801 Tel: 814.237.0139 E-mail: cozy thai@gmail.com

WESTERLY 814.308.9321

CALDER WAY

www.bagelcrustcafe.com 814.308.9756 HOURS: Mon. - Fri. 7am - 5pm • Sat. - Sun. 7am - 4pm

2017 December T&G - 107

Faccia Luna Pizzeria, 1229 S. Atherton St., 234-9000, faccialuna.com. A true neighborhood hangout, famous for authentic New York-style wood-fired pizzas and fresh, homemade Italian cuisine. Seafood specialties, sumptuous salads, divine desserts, great service, and full bar.

Outside seating available. Sorry, reservations not accepted. Dine-in, Take out. MC/V. Federal Taphouse, 130 S. Fraser St., 954-4888, federaltaphouse.com.

New restaurant serving craft beers and signature cocktails. Over 100 beers and wine on tap.

Scratch kitchen specializing in artisan pizzas, coal and wood-fired fare. Catering/private event options. AE, D, MC, V. Full Bar. Galanga, 454 E. College Ave., 237-1718. Another great addition to Cozy Thai Bistro. Galanga by Cozy Thai offers a unique authentic Thai food featuring Northeastern Thai-style cuisine. Vegetarian menu selection available. BYO (wines and beer) is welcome after 5 p.m. AE, D, DC, MAC, MC, V.

The Gardens Restaurant at The Penn Stater Conference Center Hotel, 215 Innovation Blvd., Innovation Park, 863-5090. Dining is a treat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in The Gardens Restaurant, where sumptuous buffets and à la carte dining are our specialties. AE, CB, D, DC, MC, V. Full bar, beer.

Gigi’s, W. College Ave, on the corner of Cato Ave., 861-3463, gigisdining.com. Conveniently located 5 minutes from downtown State College, Gigi’s is a farm-to-table dining experience inspired by the hottest southern trends. Outdoor Patio. Lunch & Dinner. Full Bar. AE, D, MAC, MC, V. The Greek, 102 E. Clinton Ave., 308-8822, thegreekrestaurant.net. Located behind The Original Waffle Shop on North Atherton Street. Visit our Greek tavern and enjoy authentic Greek cuisine. From fresh and abundant vegetables to the most succulent kebabs, each dish has been perfected to showcase genuine Greek flavors. When we say “authentic,” we mean it.

Full service, BYOB. D, MC, V.

Do s a

EXPRESS

Open Daily Lunch Buffet: 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

222 E. Calder Way Dinner: 814.237.3400 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. www.indiapavilion.net

South In d ian C uisine 128 Locust Lane 814.231. 2000

Family Owned & Operated since 1997 108 - T&G December 2017

Open Daily 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Herwig’s Austrian Bistro, “Where Bacon Is An Herb,” 132 W. College Ave., 272-0738. Located next to the State Theatre. Serving authentic Austrian home cooking in Central PA. Ranked #1 Ethnic Restaurant in State College for 8 years in a row. Eat-in, Take-Out, Catering. Glutenfree options available. Bacon-based dessert.

Homemade breads, BYO beer or wine all day.

Sense of humor required. D, MAC, MC, V. Hi-Way Pizza, 1688 N. Atherton St., 237-0375, and 1301 W. College Ave., 954-5240, HiWayPizza.com. The State College tradition for nearly 50 years, nobody does it better than Hi-Way! Offering more than 29 varieties of hand-spun pizzas made from scratch offer an endless combination of toppings. Its vodka “flaky” crust and red stuffed pizzas are simply a must have. Hi-Way’s menu rounds out with pasta dishes, calzones, grinders, salads, and other Italian specialties. Eat-in, take-out, or Hi-Way delivery.

AE, D, DC, LC, MC, V. Full bar.

Award-winning pizza and Italian Cuisine.

Homemade… with only the best and freshest ingredients.

1229 S. Atherton St., State College

234-9000

W W W. F A C C I A L U N A . C O M

INGREDIENT DRIVEN • SEASONAL • NEW AMERICAN CUISINE EXTENSIVE WINE LIST • BY THE BOTTLE & GLASS

PHOTOS BY ART MARGAUX

814 . 237. 8474

ZOL AK I TCHEN .COM

MON. - THUR. 11: 30 -9PM • FRI. - SAT. 11: 30 -10 PM • SUN. 11: 30 - 8PM

2017 December T&G - 109

Hoss’s Steak & Sea House, 1454 North Atherton Street, 234-4009, www.hosss.com. Since 1983, Hoss’s has been providing considerate service, delicious food, and a pleasant environment that brings family and friends together. We offer a variety of steaks, chicken, seafood, burgers, and sandwiches. Hoss’s showcase is our all-you-can-eat Hosspitality Bars — offering fresh salads, soups, breads, and desserts. AE, D, DC, MAC, MC, V India Pavilion, 222 E. Calder Way, 237-3400.

Large selection of vegetarian and nonvegetarian dishes from northern India. Lunch buffet offered daily. We offer catering for groups and private parties.

AE, D, MC, V. Inferno Brick Oven & Bar, 340 E. College Ave., 237-5718, InfernoBrickOvenBar.com. With a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere, Inferno is a place to see and be seen. A full-service bar boasts a unique specialty wine, beer, and cocktail menu. Foodies — Inferno offers a contemporary Neapolitan brick-oven experience featuring a focused menu of artisan pizzas and other modern-Italian plates. Lunch and dinner service transitions into night as a boutique nightclub with dance- floor lighting, club sound system, and the area’s most talented resident DJs. AE, D, MAC, MC, V. Full bar.

Legends Pub at The Penn Stater Conference Center Hotel, 215 Innovation Blvd., Innovation Park, 863-5080. Unwind with beverages and a casual lounge menu. AE, D, MC, V. Full bar.

Liberty Craft House, 346 E. College Ave., 954-4923, LibertyCraftHouse.com. A worthy destination inspired by their passion for knowledge, skill, and small-batch artisan goods. Liberty is a humble neighborhood joint with design cues from the industrial revolution that provides a comfortable post for a few drinks, saints logo.white2.eps food, and good times.

A one-of-a-kind, worldclass digital-menu-driven draft system features nitro-coffee, craft sodas, cocktails, wine, ales, lagers, and hand-pumped cask ale. Specializing in American whiskey, Liberty boasts a bottled beer, wine, mead, cider, and spirits list that would make your buddy jealous. Hungry? Liberty’s menu focuses on small-batch, local, organic, and artisan food made 100 percent in-house, fresh from scratch. Charcuerie, fromage, and flat breads are at the heart of the menu that is complemented by many other classic gastropub favorites.

Open 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m. every day (kitchen ’til midnight). AE, D, MAC, MC, V. SAINTS_Green only.eps

Dont' forget the Eggnog from

Meyer Dairy

Milk • Ice Cream Eggs • Cheese • Juices Candy • Pop's Mexi-Hots Baked Goods • Sandwiches Ice Cream Cakes & More!

Open Daily 8 a.m. - 11 p.m.

2390 S. Atherton St. - (814) 237-1849

SAINTS_2Cshadow.EPS statecollegecoffeeshop.com

A unique place to celebrate this

Holiday Season!

Call to Book Your Holiday Party: 814.234.8000 • w w w.toftrees.com Toftrees Golf Resort • One Country Club Lane, State College, PA 16803 110 - T&G December 2017

Otto’s Pub & Brewery, 2235 N. Atherton St., 867-6886, ottospubandbrewery.com. State College’s most awarded craft-beer pub and brewery featuring more than a dozen fresh, house-brewed ales and lagers on tap as well as fine, affordably priced, local American food with vegan and vegetarian offerings, a kids’ menu, weekly features, and seasonal menu. Open for lunch and dinner in a family-friendly, casual atmosphere. Barrel 21 craft distilled spirits available. AE, D, MC, V. Full bar.

Philipsburg Elks Lodge & Country Club, 1 Country Club Lane, Philipsburg, 342-0379, philipsburgelks.com. Restaurant open to the public!

Monday-Saturday 11-9, Sunday 9-3. Member-only bar.

New golf-member special, visit our Web site for summer golf special. AE MC, V. Full Bar (members only).

The Tavern Restaurant, 220 E. College Ave., 238-6116. A unique gallery-in-a-restaurant preserving PA’s and Penn State’s past. Dinner at The Tavern is a Penn State tradition. Major credit cards accepted. Full bar.

Whiskers at the Nittany Lion Inn, 200 W. Park Ave., 865-8580. Casual dining featuring soups, salads, sandwiches and University Creamery ice cream. Major credit cards accepted. Full bar.

Zola Kitchen & Wine Bar, 324 W. College Ave., 237-8474. Zola Kitchen & Wine Bar features ingredient-driven, seasonal, new American cuisine paired with an extensive wine list, certified wine professional, and exceptional service. Zola’s also features a new climate-controlled wine room, premium by-the-glass wine pours, fine liquor, and craft beer at its full-service bar. Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week. Reservations recommended.

Catering. Free parking after 5:30 p.m. AE, D, DC, MAC, MC, V. Full bar.

Good Food Fast Baby’s Burgers & Shakes, 131 S. Garner St., 234-4776, babysburgers.com. Love poodle skirts, a jukebox playing the oldies, and delicious food cooked to order? Then Baby’s Burgers & Shakes is your kind of restaurant! Bring the entire family and enjoy a “Whimpy” burger, a Cherry Coke, or delicious chocolate shake, and top it off with a “Teeny Weeny Sundae” in our authentic 1947 Silk City Diner.

Check out Baby’s Web site for full menu and daily specials! D, MC, V, MAC, Lion’s Cash.

2017 December T&G - 111

Bagel Crust, 460 Westerly Parkway, 308-9321, bagelcrust.com. Fresh, daily-baked New York style bagels with no artificial ingredients, no oil, no butter, and no cholesterol! Gourmet breakfast and lunch sandwiches with the best cold cuts from Boar’s Head.

Come try our organic coffee blends, organic herbal and black teas, as well as flavored smoothies. Catering is available. AE, MAC, MC, V. Barranquero Café, 324 E. Calder Way, 954-7548, barranquerocafe.com. A locally owned coffee shop specializing in authentic Colombian coffees and specialty drinks. Works closely with its coffee suppliers in Colombia to ensure that it receives only the highest quality coffee beans the region has to offer. Also serves fresh fruit juices, empanadas, and more! Hopes to bring a little piece of Colombia to Happy Valley! Hours: Mon.-Sat. 7a.m.-8p.m., Sun. 10a.m.-8p.m.

Dosa Express, 128 Locust Lane, 231-2000. The only authentic South Indian Restaurant in State College. Try our savory Dosa, a rice crepe stuffed with your choice of potatoes, chicken, or cheese.

Open Monday through Sunday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Now offering delivery through GrubHub. AE, D, MC, V. Fiddlehead, 134 W. College Ave., 237-0595, fiddleheadstatecollege.com. Fiddlehead is a soup-andsalad café offering soups made from scratch daily. Create your own salad from more than 40 fresh ingredients.

Hibachi San, 7 Hetzel Union Building on campus, 8616900. Our Poke bowl is mouthwatering and prepared fresh daily. Create your own Poke bowl with healthy options.

Monday-Thursday: 10-8, Friday: 10-6, Sunday: noon-5.

HUB Dining, HUB-Robeson Center on campus, 865-7623. A Penn State tradition open to all! Enjoy 12 different eateries in the HUB-Robeson Center on campus. Jamba Juice, McAlister’s Deli, Starbucks, Chickfil-A, Burger King, Grate Chee, Sbarro, Soup & Garden, Diversions, Blue Burrito, Mixed Greens, Panda Express, and Hibachi-San by Panda.V, MC, LC.

Town&Gown DECEMBER 2017

FREE

TOWNANDGOWN.COM

Sweet Endings Our favorite lively libations and desserts for the holidays

Inside: Drones taking flight in Centre County • Celebrating People Who Make a Difference

112 - T&G December 2017

Find Us l on Socia Media!

Irving’s, 110 E. College Ave., 231-0604, irvingsstatecollege.com. Irving’s is State College’s finest bakery café serving award-winning bagels, espresso, sandwiches, salads, and smoothies.

Meyer Dairy, 2390 S. Atherton St., 237-1849. A State College Classic! Meyer Dairy is the perfect choice for a quick, homemade lunch with fresh soups and sandwiches or treat yourself to your favorite flavor of ice cream or sundae at our ice cream parlor. Fresh milk from our own dairy cows (we do not inject our cows with BST), eggs, cheese, ice cream cakes, baked goods, and more! Plus, Meyer Dairy is the best place to pick up your Town&Gown magazine each month!

Panda Express, Penn State Campus at the HUB- Robeson Center, 861-6009 & 1870 North Atherton Street, State College, 867-2806. We serve American Asian cuisine; come try our world-famous orange chicken. Atherton open 11-9:30 Monday-Saturday, 11-9 Sunday. Campus open 10-9 Monday-Friday, noon-6 Saturday, noon-7 Sunday. AE, D, ID, MC, V. Saint’s Café, 123 W. Beaver Ave., 238-5707, statecollegecoffeeshop.com. Established in 1999, we are inspired by travel and a passion for exceptional coffee. Come try our espresso drinks, pour-over coffee, pastries, and free WiFi. Cafe Hours: MondaySaturday: 7 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

The Way Café Bakery & Deli at Way Fruit Farm, 2355 Halfmoon Valley Road, Port Matilda, 692-5211, wayfruitfarm.com. Simple country food using fresh, local ingredients! Choose from fresh sandwiches, salads, daily homemade soup, fresh-baked desserts, and more! Shop our farm store after your meal too! Mon.Fri. 8-6:30 p.m., Sat. 8-5 p.m. Closed Sundays. AE, D, DC,MC, V.

Specialty Foods Dam Donuts, 216 W. High Street, Bellefonte, 548-7825, damdonuts.com. Locally owned, specialty donut shop. Made-to-order donuts are made daily, right before your eyes! House-blend coffee, cold-brew coffee, and bubble tea also. We offer a variety of frostings and toppings to tickle your taste buds! Also offering call-ahead orders and special occasions orders. Hours: 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Tues.-Fri., 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat. & Sun., Closed Mon. AE, D, MC, V. T&G

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T& G

lunch with mimi

Stewarding Lifelong Pride Darren Andrew Weimert

O. Richard Bundy III finds common ground in alums’ love for Penn State, whatever their other views

O. Richard Bundy III with Town&Gown founder Mimi Barash Coppersmith at The Penn Stater Gardens Restaurant.

O. Richard Bundy III has always strived to accomplish his goals, whether it’s in fundraising or running marathons on every continent. One goal he set in 1997 when he left State College was to one day return in a leadership role at Penn State. He had hoped it might be to succeed Rodney Kirsch as vice president for development and alumni relations. Twenty years later, in January 2017, he did just that.

Bundy earned two degrees at Penn State — a bachelor of arts in history in 1993 and a master of arts in history in 1996. He also earned an MBA with a focus in integrative management from Michigan State University in 1999, and he completed the Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Management Development Program in 2004.

Born in Rochester, Pennsylvania, he grew up in State College since the age of 9. Prior to his return to Penn State, he spent six years as inaugural president and CEO of the University of Vermont Foundation, a separate 501c3 organization whose mission was to raise and manage private funds for the benefit of the University of Vermont.

Town&Gown founder Mimi Barash Coppersmith sat down with Bundy at The Penn Stater Gardens Restaurant to discuss the future of public higher education fundraising, 114 - T&G December 2017

how Penn State is doing in its own comprehensive campaign, and what got him started in running marathons around the world.

Mimi: Well Rich, this is a reunion. You and I first met in a development situation. I remember with great affection working on the Sy Barash Regatta with you and Jeff Jubelirer. What’s your favorite moment from that?

Rich: We had so many memorable moments during the Regatta that year. Maybe instead of answering it as most memorable I’ll answer it as most proud. You’ll recall the year before I became regatta co-chair with Jeff in 1993, we had a rainout and we hadn’t purchased insurance, so we ended up losing a lot of money on the Regatta that year. It was the first time in many years that we weren’t able to make a donation to the American Cancer Society. The next year, we were able to pay the debts we had incurred from the previous year and hold the event, in spite of flooding at Bald Eagle State Park that forced us to move the venue two weeks before the event. However, we were still able to raise enough money that year to cover all of our expenses and make a nice donation to the American Cancer Society.

Mimi: And one would have

never thought that shortly thereafter the Regatta would disappear.

Rich: No, I was very deeply disappointed that it went away in 1995. I remember having this conversation with you at a breakfast at The Corner Room that I did not want to be the Regatta chairman that lost the Regatta.

So, we were deeply committed to having success and doing the right thing.

Mimi: I remember saying to you that you were so good at raising money that I hired you in a sales job. But I also said to you, you ought to consider the development field because you may be able to be a star. And lo and behold, you began at Penn State in the basement of Old Main.

Rich: Well, thanks to you.

Mimi: It’s so exciting to see you in the role that you’re in. You’ve undertaken a humongous challenge in this job, your dream job; tell us why it excites you.

Rich: Well, there’s an emotional part. This is my hometown. I grew up in State College.

It’s my alma mater. I have two degrees from Penn State. So, the opportunity to feel that the work you do is contributing to the health, the vitality, and the strength of institutions in communities that you love means that it’s not really work. In fact I joked with President Barron when I had my six-month review that I’m working more hours that I can ever remember working and it doesn’t feel like work at all! Take the emotional piece away and the vice president for development and alumni relations job at Penn State is one of, if not the premier leadership opportunities in public higher education fundraising and alumni relations. I say that with a lot of confidence and would say that to my peers at other prominent public universities. In 2011, we had a really difficult news cycle at Penn State and in the 12 months after that terrible story first became public, more donors than ever before gave a gift to Penn State. We raised more money than we had ever done in a 12-month cycle and we had more new life

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members in the Alumni Association than at any time in Penn State’s history. For me, the only way to interpret that is Penn Staters said “my institution needs me now more than ever” and they doubled down their support for Penn State.

Mimi: At the same time, they’re faced then and now with a dissident group of alumni that are an impediment in the story of Penn State, in terms of our capacity to always come up from being knocked down.

Rich: There have been some challenging conversations with segments of the Penn State alumni population who are frustrated or angry with the institution’s response to what transpired in 2011. What I tell those folks is that we all love Penn State, so we have that in common. And as long as we recognize that we have that in common, we can have conversations with each other that don’t have to be antagonistic, that don’t have to be mean-spirited.

Mimi: Or disorderly.

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Rich: Right. Because at the base level, what we all really want is for Penn State to be a better institution than it was yesterday, or the day before, and the day before that.

Sometimes, what well-intended folks want is inconsistent with the strategic direction or the reality of our circumstance. In my role, I have to be mindful that on any topic there are likely to be alumni who see the issue from very different, but equally reasonable, perspectives. I often coach our development officers that when you get that call from an alum who’s really upset with the institution, you can sometimes turn that into a conversation about how they can support the institution to fix what they’re upset about.

Mimi: And do you think what they’re upset about is going to go away? It’s a big thing that they’re upset about.

Rich: This is likely to be a narrative that persists at Penn State for a long time. It will eventually subside because time heals all wounds, but that doesn’t mean that we should just sit by passively and wait for time to heal all wounds. I do think that there is continued work to be done. I also think that over time, people’s love for Penn State and what Penn State means to them will help to offset some of their negative feelings. And it’s not just the big issue; I could name another half-dozen topics where I’ll get a call from an alum one day who’s upset about the institution’s response, and the next day I’ll get a call from another alum who is supportive of the institution’s response and wants to be helpful. So we have to listen to people.

Mimi: And hopefully conclude the right decision to move the overall institution forward.

Rich: I do think that one thing I wish that we could see more of, in terms of feedback that we sometimes get from our external stakeholder communities, is a bit more patience to understand why the institution is responding in the way that it is. Because these are very complicated issues.

Mimi: Yes, the Greek issue has been a complicated issue for decades.

Rich: Right. And, on some of these topics – like a pending court case – there are things, sometimes by law, that Penn State is simply not able to talk about. Another example, there are very strict federal laws about what kind of information we can disclose about our students. I have seen on a number of occasions, well-intended, good-minded supporters of Penn State react strongly in a particular way without full information.

We can’t sometimes provide them with full information and so they get very frustrated with the institutional response because it feels like we’re not being transparent with them.

Mimi: With the status of the Pennsylvania state government, there is an even greater risk that we will need to raise even more of our money privately going forward.

Rich: Nationwide, there has been a significant decline in government support for public higher education. Couple that with the pressure of increased tuition on our students and their families, and the federal

government’s reduction of competitive funding for research, and private gift philanthropy becomes one of the very few remaining options for universities to generate the funding they need. I think there are some public universities in the U.S. that won’t be with us in 25 to 50 years because the economics of those institutions don’t work anymore. Penn State won’t be one of them. We’re fiscally conservative.

Our balance sheet is strong and we have loyal and generous alums. We continue to be a destination of choice for college-aged students from all around the world. We have everything working in the right direction at Penn State. So I’m quite bullish about Penn State’s future.

Mimi: So what are you going to do differently?

Rich: We need to be more aggressive and proactive about getting our best potential donors in front of our administrators, and that means rethinking how we assign potential donors to our fundraising staff

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2017 December T&G - 117

for cultivation and solicitation. One of the things Penn State does really well is ask for a lot of gifts. Last year, we received 233,000 gifts. But we can and should continue to do better to generate really big, visionary philanthropic opportunities from our most capable donors and have more gifts like Donald P. Bellisario gave earlier this year to endow the College of Communications.

Those are transformative gifts for a program.

Mimi: Overall how do we compare on participation among alumni, percentage wise?

Rich: We do really well. We are officially second in the Big 10 in overall number of alumni donors, but I think we’re actually number one. Ohio State is ranked in front of us, but they count alumni association memberships as gifts and we don’t – if we did, we would have approximately 8,000 more donors than OSU. And last year we had a 5-percent increase in the number of alumni donors while most institutions nationwide are seeing decreased alumni donor support.

You know, one challenge for us is we have a very young alumni population. More than 50 percent of our graduates earned their degree less than 20 years ago, and young millennial donors think differently about how they want to support institutions like Penn State.

They are more likely to consider “roll up your sleeves” opportunities. They don’t necessarily want to give to Penn State as an institution, they want to give to something special and

specific to their Penn State experience, like the Blue Band or THON, where they feel their support will have an impact. We have had to innovate and increasingly explore how we use social media, crowd funding, peerto-peer networking, etc., to reach out to an ever-changing audience.

Mimi: But still stay engaged with people like me in the traditional way.

Rich: Exactly, and that is the challenge.

I often say in our line of work that we are stewards of our alums’ relationship with the institution. My job is to ensure that when I retire 20 years from now and am no longer in a role to steward that relationship any longer, you still have that great relationship with the university. It’s not about us, it’s about you and how we connect you with others at Penn State so that you feel this lifelong engagement, connection, pride, and affinity.

Mimi: Well it’s a good disease to catch.

Let’s switch to how you got interested in these marathons.

Rich: Well, a shout out to my younger brother. When I was 29 years old, I was in graduate school at Michigan State and my brother called me a couple months before my 30th birthday and said, “We’ve talked about running a marathon many times; you had better run a marathon before you turn 30 and are too old to do it!” I didn’t like the “too old” part so I said I’ll do it, but I challenged him to race me. My brother and I

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ran our first marathon together, the Marine Corps Marathon in 2000. And I beat him by six seconds, let the record show! I was hooked. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The next three marathons I ran as fundraisers for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I lost both of my grandfathers to lymphoma so I ran them in their memory. Then as things happened, I found a good group to run with, it became my social network, and three marathons turned into six, turned into 16, and now I just completed my 40th. I set many running goals and one was to get into the Boston Marathon, and I did that.

Next, I wanted to run in all six of the World Marathon Majors (Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London, New York, and Tokyo) and I finished that in 2014, which put me on three continents for marathons. While I was in Tokyo, a friend mentioned that I was halfway there to having run on all seven continents.

I thought that sounded like an interesting challenge and as fate would have it, there was a tour company in Tokyo advertising a trip to Antarctica for a marathon and I signed up.

I ran in Antarctica in March 2015 and last year I ran in South America and Africa. So, this past November, Australia was continent number seven, my 40th marathon and it was my last. I retired from the marathon distance after Australia.

Mimi: What are you going to do for exercise otherwise?

Rich: Well, I’ll still run. I just won’t run marathons. I also started doing CrossFit a couple years ago, which I enjoy immensely – it keeps me in shape.

Mimi: OK, tell me where our current campaign stands.

Rich: We are off to a great start. We are 14 months into the campaign and we are at $376.3 million raised against a $1.6-billion goal (cumulatively in five years), right on schedule. What I think is the most exciting

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possibility for us is we raised $304 million last year, and that was only the third time that Penn State raised more than $300 million in a year. We have our projection that we have the possibility to raise $350 million, which would be close to the best fundraising year in the history of Penn State.

Even if we don’t get fully to that goal, the likelihood that we get to over $300 million a second year in a row is very good. It shows that we have set a new bar in what we expect from philanthropy and that’s exciting.

Mimi: Well, I think you know on a personal level I’m so glad you got this job, and I know you’ve got a great motivation to make it better.

Rich: I want you to know, I wouldn’t have this job if it weren’t for you. You’ll remember when I was applying to graduate school and I was accepted to Penn State but didn’t get an assistantship. I had no way to pay for grad school and I knew if I wanted to get my graduate degree, I had to work. You reached out to Dave Gearhart, who was the vice president for development at that time.

It has been reported to me you said, “I know this really great kid – you ought to give him a look.” Dave met me and ultimately offered me a job in development at Penn State fresh out of my undergrad degree, so that was my start in development at Penn State, and it was because of you so these things come full circle.

Mimi: That’s why it was such a special interview to me. I like to think that most of us in life do things that make a difference and on that note, you’re making a difference for Penn State. I try to do that every day of my life and together I wish you tremendous success and I’m on your team. Keep excelling, make your bad days turn into good days.

Rich: How can you have a bad day in State College at Penn State? It is Happy Valley, after all! T&G

T& G

Artist of the Month

A Changing Journey Sean Bodley has made his mark on our area as a painter and a teacher

By Miranda Buckheit

Miranda Buckheit (2)

Many people have fond memories of sitting at the kitchen table as a child, playing or talking. For Sean Bodley, these memories entail drawing landscapes and battle sketches.

Bodley chuckles at a preschool memory of when he took the painting of a fellow preschooler’s parent, since he liked it so much. Bodley believes this painting was an inspiration for him to become the artist he is today.

Art was something Bodley never envisioned as a career, and he began his college experience at the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee as a kinesiology major since he liked exercise and had an interest in personal training. He had enjoyed art in middle school, when he would create card games and draw, but in high school he was not as involved.

In his sophomore year of college, Bodley decided to take some art courses.

“When I started taking the art classes, I went all in. I didn’t know what the plan was, but I was super excited about it,” Bodley says.

When Bodley graduated, he worked a few jobs in the Milwaukee area to make ends meet and pay for a new studio. During that time he started creating art in a shared studio space with several other artists. He also began teaching his first students, who responded to a flier he posted.

His love of landscape painting came into full swing upon moving to State College with his wife, Stephanie, who was pursuing her doctoral degree at Penn State.

“The art journey is always changing,” Bodley says.

Bodley enjoys painting outside with his dog, Pippa. When he began looking at Mount Nittany, he turned his focus on global climate change.

Bodley wants to wrap his head around the concept by painting and reading books on the subject. He says the more he learns, the scarier it becomes.

He says he hopes his paintings can raise awareness and help us prepare for what is to come. He says his favorite painting, titled Sink or Swim, is about the choice we have to mobilize and try to deal with climate change because he asserts that the costs are enormous, and it’s not just about money.

Bodley’s art has evolved over time, and so has his outlook.

“I think art is a universal language,” he says. “Some art you need extra knowledge to decipher, but I think art is cool because you don’t need to know any certain language. Anyone can see it and sort of react to it in their own way. I think it is a powerful tool for communication. It can be a spiritual tool. It can be many different things. … The doors for art today have been blown open as to what art can be.”

Bodley enjoys painting outside with his dog, Pippa.

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Bodley says his favorite painting is Sink or Swim, which addresses climate change.

Along with his landscape painting, Bodley teaches to all age groups. He teaches private lessons within people’s homes in the evenings.

He is also a teacher for the Art Alliance and does workshops for the Bellefonte Art Museum for Centre County.

When teaching, he focuses on the technical aspects of materials, tools, physics of light, measuring, and representational drawing and painting. He calls this the “grammar” of the universal language.

His studio, affectionately named Mount Nittany Studio, is where he does most of his solo work. Mount Nittany Studio is a cozy space, with a tiny kitchen and Bodley’s paintings around for show.

One of his paintings depicts a “Mad Max”style scene in the desert, with none other than Pippa running through the image.

For work, Bodley does a mix of independent work and commissions.

His independent pieces can take anywhere from a week to eight to nine months to complete.

“Sometimes it takes a week, sometimes it takes a year!” Bodley laughs. Sink or Swim took Bodley about nine months to finish, since his concept changed halfway through the project.

Bodley says he also finds commission work to be satisfying because he is helping a client realize a vision. He creates anywhere from six to 12 commissions a year, which he affirms are quicker to create because of the hard deadlines. His work ranges from fine oil dog portraits to yoga studios that wish to have painted yoga figures hanging on the walls.

He is not the only artist in the family, as his grandmother creates conceptual paper art sculptures.

Bodley is thankful for his supportive family and he laments that other artists are not always as fortunate.

When Bodley isn’t painting, he enjoys hiking with Pippa. He also reads art instructional books, history books, and plays video games.

His wife does not paint, but finds her creative outlet in activities such as knitting, dyeing and spinning wool, and designing her own clothing.

Bodley will be leaving State College at the end of the year to move to California for his wife’s new job. Bodley says he will miss his students, but he is excited for the change. T&G Bodley has an online Etsy store where he sells his prints. His Etsy username is SeanBodley. His work can also be seen on his Instagram, @seanbodley.

2017 December T&G - 123

snapshot

Sam Girton

T& G

Starting a Conversation For filmmaker Pearl Gluck of Penn State, The Turn Out is a call to action to help victims of sex trafficking

By Emily Chertow Pearl Gluck calls herself a filmmaker and a director, but to others she is much more – an impactful leader.

For the last four years, Gluck, a professor in Penn State’s College of Communications, has been working on her feature film called The Turn Out. This film blends documentary and fiction narrative to address the underreported issue of domestic sex trafficking at truck stops.

Just this year, there have been 4,460 human trafficking cases reported. Sex trafficking involves adults and children being coerced to engage in commercial sex acts against their will.

Gluck has met with and heard many stories from activists, survivors, even sex-trafficking offenders.

The film is close to her heart because of the research she has put into it and because she considers herself an activist.

“My hope is that this is just the beginning of a conversation – so many people are out there pounding the pavement as activists and making sure that early signs are being detected and making sure that these things don’t happen,” Gluck says. “I hope that this becomes one of the things that calls attention” to the problem.

Gluck notes that many think that commercial sex and prostitution is a choice made by those who participate – but that is often not the case.

Gluck is taking a look at the extreme lack of opportunity, poverty, and addiction, which is an epidemic and has been for decades.

“For this particular film, there is no actual abuse or crossing of the line on screen. We are looking at the underlying causes and then the effect of it, which some might argue is even more dark,” Gluck says. “Rather, we see choices being made that are so hard to stomach.”

Many of those in the film are not trained actors – they are truckers, survivors, and activists who chose to be part of the film because they wanted to add 124 - T&G December 2017

Filmmaker and Penn State faculty member Pearl Gluck (center) directs actors in The Turn Out.

their voices against sex trafficking.

Gluck speaks passionately about the people she had the privilege to work with in making the film happen.

“For me the goal is to show the film and to have a conversation after,” Gluck says. “At some point, I couldn’t look away. It’s really hard to avoid the subject, especially now, which I think is good and yet the more awareness we have, the more we discover how huge the issue is.”

Donations from recent previews of the film at The State Theatre will benefit Survivors Ink and The Freeman Project. Survivors Ink supports trafficking survivors by funding cover-up tattoos to replace slavery brands. Gluck dedicates the film to the organization’s founder, trafficking survivor Jennifer Kepton.

The Freeman Project helps to house women in transition.

This film is a call to action. T&G For more about the film, including future screenings, visit facebook.com/theturnoutfilm.

The National Human Trafficking Hotline is available to help victims at 888-363-7888. To learn more about the issue, visit humantraffickinghotline.org.

Inspiring and facilitating a culture of giving which creates a vibrant community This holiday season, let Centre Foundation help you fulfill your giving dreams make a gift today!

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