November 2023, Volume 11, Issue 4 PUBLISHER Bob Rolley brolley@sungazette.com brolley@lockhaven.com
EDITOR Nick Seitzer nseitzer@sungazette.com
CONTRIBUTORS C.J. Leonard, Joseph W. Smith III, Linda Stager, Casey Traver, Seth Nolan, Courtney Cizek, Lou Bernard, Shirley Boatman PHOTOGRAPHERS Steve Bagwell, Paul Barrett, Dave Kennedy, Mark Nance, Linda Stager, Casey Traver, Karen Vibert-Kennedy DESIGN EDITOR Timothy R. Wertz Jr.
PRODUCTION MANAGER Chuck Smith
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS John Leeser jleeser@sungazette.com Jordan McCloskey jmccloskey@lockhaven.com CIRCULATION MANAGER Anthony Segraves asegraves@sungazette.com EDITORIAL OFFICE (570) 326-1551 Ext. 3110
ADVERTISING SALES (570) 326-1551 Ext. 2230
E-MAIL westbranchlife@sungazette.com
West Branch Life is published quarterly or more at 252 W. Fourth St., Williamsport, Pa., 17701. Letters and editorial contributions may be emailed to westbranchlife@sungazette.com or mailed to West Branch Life, 252 W. Fourth St., Williamsport, Pa., 17701. West Branch Life is not responsible for unsolicited submissions. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without written permission by publisher is prohibited. Copyright 2023 by Odgen Newspapers. All rights reserved. Advertising rates and specifications are available by contacting jleeser@sungazette.com. West Branch Life was founded in 2013, a publication of the Williamsport Sun-Gazette and The (Lock Haven) Express community newspapers with web sites at www.sungazette.com and www.lockhaven.com.
Departments 3 Editor’s Letter 5 Currents 5 The Five 7 Good Reads 8 Viewing Pleasure 10 Branching Out 12 Meet up
14 Positivity 18 Scenes of the Season 32 Dockside 32 Eats and Drinks 36 Calendar
On the Cover PHOTO PROVIDED
Pennsylvania College of Technology students hone their skills in the areas of network administration and engineering technology.
Making Waves ALWAYS EVOLVING
Area’s tech industry has grown through the years
TAKE A HIKE
By SETH NOLAN
Hitting the trail in winter offers unique challenges and rewards By COURTNEY CIZEK
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Editor’s letter
Winter offers a lot to be excited about
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ike most people, I’m not a big fan of freezing temperatures, whipping winds and scraping ice off of my windshield. But even knowing that the onset of winter means I’ll soon be getting my fair share of all three of those things, I couldn’t be more excited for the season to be underway. I’ll put up with the sketchy weather and mild inconveniences for a chance to stuff my face with holiday dinners and desserts. Though I don’t love shoveling snow, I sure enjoy hitting my favorite sledding spot, and seeing white on the ground while I’m up in my tree stand hunting. There is a give-and-take with every changing of the seasons, so instead of focusing on the negative aspects of winter, let’s take a moment to celebrate its finer features. In this edition of West Branch Life, our staff aims to shine a light on some reasons we have to be happy winter has arrived. One story you will find in these pages highlights several area antique shops, which are a great way to get out of the house, since one could spend hours rummaging through the relics each store has to offer. Antique shops are not only a great way to keep history alive, they also offer an opportunity to buy a unique holiday gift. Maybe cozying up beside the fireplace with a book is more your speed during winter. No problem, one of our longtime writers has offered up an article on some of his favorite literary classics that he believes can still appeal to modern readers. Moving along, we take a closer look at the Station Gallery in downtown Lock Haven. The Station Gallery was created from a renovated railroad station by the Clinton County Arts Council, and hosts many
great art exhibits and other cultural events. Our area is fortunate to have a gallery with a team as dedicated as the CCAC. An interesting local that you can read about in this edition of WBL is Williamsport-based entrepreneur Zach Wahl, who operates three area businesses — Mission Hammocks, Modern Map Art and Brick Mill Craft Furniture — that each sell products with a social purpose in mind. Wahl’s companies feature unique products that are a testament to his creativity. Stories on the AIDS Resource Center and Newberry Community Partnership can also be found in these pages. The organizations serve Williamsport in different ways but are both important in helping the local community thrive. One larger story in his edition focusses on the obstacles and rewards of hiking in the winter months. Those willing to brave nature’s rough elements during this time of year are provided with a chance to experience the wild in a way you can’t get in the spring, summer and fall. But with the added challenges, means added preparation, so our writer has outlined the safest ways to hit the trailheads during the coldest time of year. Another one of the bigger pieces we’ve offered up for you is on the evo-
Nick Seitzer
nseitzer@sungazette.com lution of the area’s tech industry through the years. In an ever-changing landscape, local tech companies have had to remain dedicated to staying on top of the newest trends and advances in the field. Our writer details how they have been able to change with the times. Hopefully winter doesn’t get you down too much. But if it does, I hope this edition of West Branch Life can at least offer some temporary relief. Happy reading!
~ Nick Seitzer
West Branch Life magazine can be found online at
www.sungazette.com & www.lockhaven.com
Currents >>>>> the five
Five antique shops to help beat cottage fever By CHRISTINA J. LEONARD West Branch Life Magazine
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hile winter usually means fun in the snow for kids, more often than not it means long weeks indoors for adults. So, why not make the living room you’re going to be cooped up in feel as cozy as possible, while finding a way to get outside the house for a bit? Heading to an antique shop can do just that. Because of the variety of merchandise at an antique shop, you can find a rare relic to boast about, or perhaps something that will send you back in time to your childhood — or the childhood days of your parents and grandparents. There’s no telling what you might stumble across on the shelves, and each trip back offers its own unique experiences. Here’s a look at five great area antique shops to check out the next time you’re stuck in the house with nothing to do. Street of Shops
100 N. Water St., Lewisburg
A mission to preserve local historical architecture grew into a blooming business when founder Craig Bennett bought an old factory in 1996, and transformed it into an indoor village, the Street of Shops.
He hunted for many antique vendors, which still sell at the Street of Shops to this day. The Street of Shops has quickly become a favorite stop for locals and tourists alike. It offers customers a chance to walk through hallways upon hallways of historic artifacts. “There’ll always be something you’ve never seen before,” Bennett said. As an example, Bennett mentioned that the store once had a man come from New England with some early glass, which turned out to be much more than what was initially believed. “We put a hundred dollars on it, and in an hour the phone rang. Then the second call comes, and the third. Then we found out we had the holy grail of bottle collecting,” Bennett said. “It’s a mid-century Wellington Gothic Cathedral Pickle Jar. The bids stopped at $40,000.” Hours for the Street of Shops are from 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday to Friday; and from 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. For more information, call 570-424-5765. The Cottage on Pine Antiques 21 E. Pine St., Selinsgrove
Helen Walters, of the Selinsgrove Chamber of Commerce, runs a small shop down the Avenue of Antiques. “Of course, my shop is filled with all kinds of old stuff,” she said. “Collectibles and antiques.” Not only does her shop work with
local small businesses and artists for events like the Late Night Selinsgrove, where guests can explore the hallways of historical treasures while listening to a live band, she also sells wares she’s crafted by hand. “We have pillows that we make right here. I print the image on a special fabric and use drapery on an upholstery fabric to build the pillow around the image,” Walters said. Hours for the store are 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. New hours for the store are expected to be announced on its Facebook page in the near future. For more information, call 570374-8992. Country Store Antiques and Décor 607 Village Road, Muncy
“We were set up at the Olde Barn Center,” said Cindy Shaner, owner of Country Store Antiques and Decor. “When they closed, my son said, ‘Well, let’s just buy something.’ We decided on an old Country Store because it has the look of an antique shop.” Though Shaner and her family started their company in the middle of a pandemic, the business has skyrocketed since that time because of her history with the market. She’s been collecting and selling historical relics since she was 15. “The odd items sell. I always look for something I’ve never seen before,” she West Branch Life 5
the five <<<<< Currents said. While Shaner is loyal to her niche of strictly selling antiques, on appropriate occasions she’s more than happy to give local businesses space on her shelves. “We try to find local people who make food. One friend makes honeycomb candy. And then at Christmastime, I like to try to help out the local crafters,” she said. “And we also have a lady who makes candles. We try to help them as much as possible.” Hours for Country Store Antiques and Decor are 10 a.m.–5 p.m. from Wednesday to Saturday, and 12 p.m.–5 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call 570371-5292. Crownover’s New To You
100 S. Railroad St., Hughesville
“We are more of a variety shop, selling many other items besides antiques,” said Christian Crownover, founder and manager of Crownover’s New to You. “I got started by collecting post World War II Lionel trains,” Crownover said. “I would go to estate auctions to find them, and I would resell many of the household items as well.
“I was laid off from my current job and took the opportunity to start my shop.” And from that humble beginning came a business two years in the making. What makes Crownover stand out from the rest is that he will pay for merchandise and he also accepts donations. He also does all he can to honor the original holders of an antique. Crownover is looking forward to The Greater Hughesville and their “5 to Drive” event this November, where shoppers can participate with local businesses and potentially win a car. The drawing will be held on Dec. 3 following the annual Christmas Parade. “I’m currently having a 1902 coin-operated player piano restored. I hope to have it back before Christmas so my customers can enjoy hearing some Christmas songs right in the store,” he said. Hours for the store are 9 a.m.–5 p.m. from Tuesday to Friday, and 8 a.m.–5 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, call 570-220-3963. Rust and Shine Unique Shopps 600 Cemetery St, Williamsport
Celebrating its fourth anniversary, the
owners of the Rust and Shine Unique Shopps took a family tradition and turned it into a great business that’s not only an antique shop, but also a venue that provides over 50 small local businesses an opportunity to showcase their merchandise. The store is a great landmark for community activity and local history. Cozy, warm and family friendly is the feeling that hangs in the air as you walk through 12,000-square feet of unique items, such as jewelry, mosaic lamps, throw blankets, soap bars and wine bottles. Hours for Rise and Shine are 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Friday to Saturday, and 11 a.m.–4 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, contact 570-980-9766.
C. J. Leonard is currently working toward a substantive editing certificate through training with The Christian Pen and has been writing both fiction and nonfiction for 10 years.
Currents >>>>> good reads
Classics that still work
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By JOSEPH W. SMITH III West Branch Life
n a long-ago article on Christmas gifts, Pultizer-winning columnist Mike Royko admitted that he preferred to give books — even if the recipient wasn’t much of a reader. There was always a chance, he said, that the person might finally crack open a goodie and get hooked; and in any case, it was his little attempt to promote and preserve what writer Larry McMurtry elsewhere called “the culture of the book.” So as Christmas approaches this year, here’s my own plug for literary gifts. Call it “classics that still work”: older picks that remain worthwhile after many decades — or centuries!
‘A Christmas Carol’ Charles Dickens (1843)
Every December, I re-read this tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s ghostly redemption and always notice something new. Even if you’ve seen a dozen movie versions, you’ll love the beautifully written original — bursting with lively characters, Victorian atmosphere and the author’s irrepressible love of life. ‘Jane Eyre’
Charlotte Bronte (1847)
Bronte’s classic is narrated by its fiercely headstrong heroine as she carves out her own path to love with the enigmatic Edward Rochester. A masterpiece; one of the five greatest novels written in English.
‘McElligot’s Pool’ Dr. Seuss (1947)
This typically surreal and fanciful tale remains my own favorite of the good Doctor’s 60-plus volumes. Along with four other Seusses that supposedly contained offensive material, Pool was pulled from publication in 2021, though costly used copies can still be found online. ‘Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel’ Virginia Lee Burton (1939)
Now entering its ninth decade, Burton’s beloved little children’s story about a valiant steam-shovel in the diesel age remains a charmer. Watch for the same author’s “Little House” and “Katy,” both likewise lovely. ‘The Old Man and the Sea’ Ernest Hemingway (1952)
With this timeless tale of an aging Cuban fisherman and his battle to bring home a boat-sized marlin, Hemingway reconfirmed his status as a writer of wide appeal, both popular and scholarly. Santiago’s saga remains a soaring parable about how to keep on fighting even when you cannot win — and why that matters. ‘Pride and Prejudice’
‘Lord of the Flies’
Jane Austen (1813)
Perhaps not the happiest Christmas read, Golding’s parable about British schoolkids stranded on a desert isle is a seamless blend of symbolism, storyline and simmering cynicism about sin and depravity. Grim and gripping.
Many years before “Jane Eyre” came Austen’s dazzling rom-com about Elizabeth Bennet — similarly headstrong (though perhaps more socially adept) as she likewise sets her own terms for marriage with the seemingly standoffish Fitzwilliam Darcy. Very funny, with classic Austen irony saturating nearly every page.
William Golding (1954)
‘Sir Gawain and the Green Knight’ anonymous (14th cent.)
This 700-year-old “epic poem” about an Arthurian knight fulfilling a lethal pledge might not seem a likely Christmas gift. But it’s a short, fast read (around 70 pages), and its heady blend of courage, integrity, failure and humility feels surprisingly modern. Tolkien has an excellent translation, though Burton Raffel’s rendition for Signet is easier to read. ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ Harper Lee (1960)
Lee’s tale of racism, childhood and (in)justice remains a favorite with young readers, despite its Depression-era setting and somewhat episodic plot. Hands down, America’s favorite novel. ‘The War of the Worlds’ H. G. Wells (1898)
Now celebrating its 125th anniversary, Wells’s groundbreaking story of extraterrestrial invasion still feels ahead of its time. Exciting, intelligent and beautifully written, with a dandy twist and a potent allegory on British imperialism. Merry Christmas — and happy reading!
Joseph W. Smith III is a writer, teacher and speaker in Central Pennsylvania. His latest book is “The Best Movies You Never Saw: 300 Underthe-Radar Films That Were Overlooked, Unjustly Trashed -- or Just Plain Terrific." robbwhitefan@gmail.com. West Branch Life 7
Currents >>>>> viewing pleasure
Clinton County Arts Council brings great cultural experiences to region
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By LOU BERNARD West Branch Life
OCK HAVEN — In the middle of Lock Haven, at 2 E. Bald Eagle St., there is a building. It’s an old railroad station, sitting on a grassy lot. This is not just any railroad station, it’s the Station Gallery, home of the Clinton County Arts Council. The Clinton County Arts Council has the simple mission of promoting, developing and supporting the arts in Clinton County. They are, essentially, the go-to organization for art within the community. The group raises public awareness of art through events, exhibits and coordination with other groups. Interestingly, the railroad station itself didn’t start at that location. The Arts Council resides in the old Mill Hall Railroad Station, which helped establish the nearby borough of Mill Hall in 1884. On Oct. 30, 2007, the county government had part of the station moved to its current location in Lock Haven. The Arts Council was established in 1984, according to current president Steve Getz. “Originally, we met in members’ homes, and then in City Hall,” said Getz. “Later, the group had a gallery that showcased members’ works on Main Street before moving to the Station Gallery in May of 2012.” Getz said the gallery has hosted over 150 different art exhibits since opening. From Nov. 17-
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Dec. 17, the organization will host the Member’s Holiday Art Sale, where work from many of the members will be available to view and purchase. “We are in the planning stages of the Station Gallery exhibit schedule for 2024,” Getz said. “Dates are still to be determined, however we can confirm the LH JAMS Music and Art Festival takes place on Aug. 8-10. Many bands have already been booked with a wide selection of musical genres that have become the trademark of the festival. “Our goal is to never be predictable and always offer an amazing cultural experience to the region,” he added. Station Gallery events require planning and effort, sometimes months ahead of the actual event. Both the board and members contribute to the process, depending on what is required. “We have a number of people that are involved,” Getz said, about the planning and implementation. “Typically, it is a small circle from the CCAC Board or CCAC members that handle installation, marketing and promotion. “Well-designed art exhibits take planning and experience to create an order to the show of art throughout the gallery,” added Getz. “This usually involves compatible styles of ‘art groups’ to complimentary colorways, so there is a loose connection with pieces immediately near each other.”
Getz mentioned that Station Gallery exhibit receptions are meant for everyone and are hosted by the CCAC. “This type of event is very rare for rural communities and needs to be supported by simply showing up,” said Getz. “They are free to the public and typically very family friendly.” The final result is often a wonderful display inside the gallery that shows the talent and hard work of the artists. The challenging work beforehand is often not seen, making the show look effortless. “We ensure our programs and projects succeed by detailed project planning, which not only includes a great idea, but requires active fundraising and careful budgeting,” Getz said. “No event is pursued without proper funding to back the entire program. If additional funds are needed for success, we will pursue new sponsorships before moving on the project. “An extremely dedicated force of board members spends a great deal of personal time and years of experience to enlisting help, sponsorship and actively working at every event,” he added. For more information on the Station Gallery and its events, visit www.stationgalleryccac.org.
Lou Bernard is a freelance writer and paranormal investigator. He serves as the field leader for the Lock Haven Paranormal Seekers. He lives in Clinton County with his wife, son, and two dogs.
LOU BERNARD/West Branch Life
Currents >>>>> branching out
The Poconos
offer something for everybody
PHOTO PROVIDED
This photo, provided by PoconoMountains.com, shows a few of the many beautiful ski slopes one can expect to find in the Poconos this winter.
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By CASEY TRAVER West Branch Life
he Pocono Mountains, commonly referred to as the Poconos, are a charming and scenic region tucked comfortably in the Northeast Pennsylvania mountains. Known for stunning natural beauty, recreational outdoor activities, and charming towns, the Poconos offer a diverse range of activities and attractions for its numerous year-round visitors. One of the stand-out destinations in the Poconos is Camelback Resort, tucked away against the serene backdrop. Camelback Resort is a premier allseason destination in the Poconos, and it is easy to see why. Nicely situated on the slopes of Camelback Mountain, this resort offers many activities that effortlessly cater to visitors of all ages and in-
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terests. The majestic Camelback Mountain transforms into a ski and snow enthusiast's paradise in winter. It boasts 39 trails of varying difficulty levels, making it ideal for snow sport lovers from beginner to advanced. Camelback's Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark shines as a tourist favorite when the earth warms and summer returns. This massive waterpark offers a lazy river, numerous slides, and a wave pool, to mention a few of the attractions. Whatever you may seek, Aquatopia is the destination where adventure and relaxation meld beautifully. The breathtaking views from atop Camelback Mountain are reason enough to visit. Camelback offers ziplining, tree-top obstacle courses, and mountain bike trails for the most exhilarating ways to take these views in. When it's time to unwind, Camelback offers luxurious accommodations, from
modern suites to cozy cabins. Dining options are numerous and ensure your taste buds are as stuffed as your adventure self is. Just a stone's throw away from Camelback Resort lies Big Pocono State Park, a natural gem showcasing all the beauty the Poconos have to offer. With a span of 1,300 acres, the park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and some of the most stunning panoramic views of the region. One highlighted view, aptly named "Ariel View," is just a hike or a drive to the Summit. Here, view the reward of sweeping vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. It is exceptionally breathtaking in the Fall when the foliage transforms into a kaleidoscope of rich, vibrant autumn hues. The Indian Trail Loop is a family friendly, easy trail that meanders through lush forests. But if it's a challenge you seek, The North and South trails offer a more de-
branching out <<<<< Currents manding terrain for those well-versed in the outdoor arena. Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts flock to Big Pocono State Park as it serves as a home to various species of birds and small mammals. Bring your binoculars to not miss the native wildlife dwelling here. After soaking up all the natural beauty the Poconos offer, a little therapeutic shopping might be in order. That's where The Pocono Premium Outlets come in. Formally (and betterknown) as The Crossings, the freshly updated outlets raise the bar for those who love the sport of shopping. Located in Tannersville, The Pocono Premium Outlets are a shopper's paradise offering a wide array of stores, including Coach, Ralph Lauren and Nike. Whether you are in search of clothing, accessories or home goods, you will most certainly find everything you need and more here. The outdoor layout in this open-air mall makes the shopping experience at the outlets more unique. In between popping into stores, you'll take in the
fresh mountain air in a picturesque setting, adding to the entire experience's charm. If you need to refuel during your shopping excursion, the outlets are home to numerous dining options with a wide variety of cuisines to curb your hunger. Tannersville itself is an optimal town to visit. This charming community captures the essence of a small town perfectly blended with many outdoor recreational activities. Both nature enthusiasts and concrete pounding shoppers are content in this quintessential destination. "Tannersville really is a gem with so much nature-based recreation intermixed with first-rate hospitality and retail therapy,” said James Hamill, Director of Public Relations for the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. “The upgrades underway at the now at Pocono Premium Outlets are going to elevate the experience exponentially for shoppers. The views from up on Big Pocono — especially during fall foliage season — are spectacular. And Camel-
back Resort has really found a way to entertain guests in any season. Barley Creek Brewing Co. is right in the middle of it all, too, one of the biggest stops on the Pocono Beverage Trail, complete with a Pint Size Wiffle Ball Park for outdoor fun!" Traveling to the Poconos is a journey that promises an enchanting escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The breathtaking outdoor scenery, outdoor adventures, alluring towns and eateries create a memorable experience for all travelers.
Casey Traver has written scripts for streaming TV, novels, and magazine articles. A native of the Greenridge section of Scranton, she currently resides in Dallas, Pa., with her husband, Derek and son, Jet.
Currents >>>>> meet up
Local entrepreneur runs three businesses in Williamsport
By LINDA STAGER West Branch Life
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illiamsport hosts three unique businesses that have more in common than their young owner. All three are less than 10 years old, successful, and create unique products with a sense of social purpose. Meet Zach Wahl and his Williamsportbased creations: Mission Hammocks, Modern Map Art, and Brick Mill Craft Furniture. “I’m always fascinated by the different ways that people all over the world use the resources they have, the talent and skills they have,” said Wahl. “My first business started in 2014, when I was in Belize and Guatemala. Hammocks are really big there and whole families are in-
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volved in making them. After I came home from the trip, I started thinking that I could give them a way to sell more hammocks. I wanted to found a company that had a purpose. “I came across a school in Nicaragua that made hammocks. Nicaragua is the second-poorest country in the world, second after Haiti. Their healthcare is poor, and people there have a pretty rough life. They have a large disabled population,” Wahl said. “In Grenada, a school for the disabled has a workshop that offers work training and life skills for their students, where they are paid a fair wage to make hammocks. I wanted to help”. Indeed, Wahl did help. By 2015, he had established a distribution network in the U.S. to get hammocks into a variety of retail venues. Unrest in Nicaragua since then has created some barriers to importing a steady supply of hammocks, but sales in boutique shops across the U.S.
continue. “I really care about the shop and the people there. I’ll continue to sell as many hammocks as I can through our different platforms,” Wahl said. Two years later, Wahl wanted to create a business with a similar sense of personal interest, but one that would be based here in the U.S. With that goal, he created Modern Map Art. “I’ve always enjoyed maps. We were traveling to different places around the world and wanted a way to display a map of places we had visited. We developed software that would allow us to do that,” he said. “We started out with custom-designed city street maps and from there, we realized that people were giving these maps as gifts because the places were meaningful to them. “That’s’ how our ‘Hello, Will you? I do’ map products came to life. It’s three maps on a poster. The maps are where the cou-
meet up <<<<< Currents
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Local entrepreneuer Zach Wahl owns three Williamsport-based businesses — Modern Map Art (left), Brick Mill Craft Furniture (middle) and Mission Hammocks (right) — that each serve a social purpose close to his heart. ple met, where they became engaged, and where they were married.” Wahl said the company has a website where customers can now also build their own poster of any location they like, even the night sky on a specific date. “We focus on custom artwork that is meaningful to people; artwork of places that matter to them, memories that matter to them,” said Wahl. “That’s the common theme in all my businesses: giving people the opportunity to connect their stories.” And Wahl’s third business? Brick Mill Craft Furniture was created in 2020. Wahl said, “We noticed how people couldn’t get furniture from other countries at that time. We wanted to build a furniture company that would cut down supply chain issues. We have local
sources of lumber, and Williamsport has a legacy as the lumber capital of the world. Why not celebrate that legacy? Our warehouse is in Water Tower Square, at the original location of the 1880’s Brick Mill lumber branch.” “We create one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture made of local sustainable lumber and for every piece of furniture we sell, we plant trees. Wahl said the company focuses on a couple of things. The first is “live edge” furniture. “We use trees that have already been taken down and slice them into big slabs of wood that are then used to make unique furniture. It’s what we call ‘artwork from nature,’” he said. “We also do architectural woodwork that adds a unique character element in people’s homes: high end staircases, cus-
tom shelving, things like that.” “We manufacture our furniture right here in Williamsport. We train artisans as woodworkers. In every case, we tell a story with our products.”
Linda Stager, of Wellsboro, is an awardwinning outdoor writer and photographer. Her stories and photos are often showcased in a variety of publications, including the Williamsport Sun -Gazette. She is also the author of the “Pine Creek Rail Trail Guidebook,” a 206-page guide to the 62-mile highly acclaimed rail trail that runs from Wellsboro to Jersey Shore. You can learn more about her at www.lindastager.com and can reach her at lstager021@gmail.com.
Currents >>>>> positivity
AIDS Resource Center offers services, opens new clinic
SHIRLEY BOATMAN/West Branch Life
The in-office staff at AIDS Resource Center, left to right: Staci Saunders, Nurse; Tiana Bowers, Case Manager; Kadin Landau, Case Manager/Outreach Specialist; Dr. Andrew Haussmann, Medical Director/Physician; Susan Neece, Client/Patient Services Coordinator; Amy Harada, Assistant Director; Mary Ballat, Outreach. Eight other staff members work remotely.
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By SHIRLEY BOATMAN West Branch Life
n 1988, AIDS Resource Center (AR), which offers services at 500 West Third Street in Williamsport, was compassionately founded by community members. “Our mission,” said Executive Director Kirsten Burkhart, “was very focused: To enable residents of Lycoming County who had AIDS to die in comfort and with dignity.” With a staff of 16, and new hires foreseeable, services provided by AIDS Resource are varied and extensive. “AR’s commitment to the original goal has remained, but as more effective treatments have greatly increased the life expectancy of those living with HIV, the agency’s mission has expanded to include connecting clients with the resources they need to live with HIV,” Burkhart said. “In furtherance of the mission, the agency began providing prevention, education and testing to the 14 West Branch Life
community. “Besides Lycoming, we have expanded services to nine other counties,” Burkhart added. “Along with support, we want to empower our clients through education and advocacy.”
SERVICES OFFERED AIDS Resource services include case management (connects clients to medical and social services); medical and dental assistance (payment and coordination of appointments); mental health services (connects clients to professionals; copays); advanced care (age-related medical and psychosocial issues, age 50 and older); transportation; and nutritional needs. There are other benefits available to clients, such as budget counseling, mail order pharmacy, a clothing shop for those who identify as transgender or non-conforming, and several other services. Additionally, programs focusing on education and prevention are available to clients, including AR Health, the recently founded full-service Primary
Care Clinic focused on providing medical care to people living with HIV and to members of the LGBTQ+ community. Point-of-care HIV testing is available, with results in 20 minutes, and homebased HIV testing is offered. Also, hepatitis C testing is provided at AIDS Resource.
OBSTACLES TO TREATMENT Assistant Director Amy Harada explained that even though all these services are available, many who may need them do not access them because of the prevailing stigma. “It’s a big challenge for both clients and staff,” Harada said. “This stigma causes so many problems, and one very serious one is that it discourages individuals from seeking medical and mental health treatments.” These factors have led to AR’s establishment of the clinic offering primary care at their offices. Dr. Andrew Haussmann is the physician and Medical Director at AR.
positivity <<<<< Currents “We’re so grateful for the establishment of this clinic. People can come here for any medical problem. We encourage them to talk about their situations and concerns, and we listen, without judgment,” Haussmann said. Harada added, “Anyone seeking a new doctor for any concern can come here and not feel judged. We strongly promote nonjudgment.”
OUTREACH Harada also voiced how important it is to get the word out to people who could use our services. “We’ve been setting up tables at different community events to provide information and reach as many people as possible,” she said. Burkhart speaks to the campaigns run by AR. “Much of the advertising focuses on increasing awareness of our services, but we sponsored a campaign focusing on U=U (Undetectable=Untransmittable) to help people understand that those people living with HIV who have an undetectable viral load cannot transmit HIV through sexual contact. It is our hope that educating people about U=U will help reduce the stigma associated with being HIV positive.” This campaign is supported by numerous health groups and organizations worldwide, including the World Health Organization. AR has also made available an “Ask the Doc” video campaign, where people can send in general medical questions or questions about sexual health that they may be too uncomfortable to ask their own doctor. AR’s Dr. Haussmann answers the questions on their YouTube channel (youtube.com/@aidsresource2186). Regarding funding, Burkhart said, “Much of our funding is provided through state and federal contracts and pharmacy rebates. We have also been receiving grants from private foundations and grantors. We are fortunate to receive gifts (both monetary and in-kind) from private donors.” AR has 170 case management clients. There are approximately 400 HIV tests and STI tests performed annually. “With the addition of the Clinic,
we expect those numbers to grow,” Burkhart said. “With many medications available now, people who are HIV-positive can be successfully treated and the virus reduced to undetectable. Research shows that people who are diagnosed early and start treatment quickly have the same life expectancy as people without HIV,” said Burkhart.
Shirley Boatman
is a retired Sullivan County English teacher. She currently pens a column for The Muncy Luminary, entitled, “Got a Minute?” and is a member of The Second Monday Poetry Group, out of Bloomsburg. While teaching and raising their four children, she wrote for The Sullivan Review, including a column, “Say Kay.” She and her husband, Bill, live in Muncy Twp., and are happy grandparents of six terrific kiddos.
Currents >>>>> positivity
Newberry Community Partnership works to help neighborhood thrive
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By SETH NOLAN West Branch Life
lthough Newberry is a part of the City of Williamsport, the Newberry Community Partnership has always seen something unique and worth preserving there. The NCP is a non-political advocacy group for Newberry and a social-hub of sorts where news is shared through the publication Inside Newberry.
GETTING STARTED Inspired by the positive impacts that the Pennsylvania Main Street program had in revitalizing the state’s downtowns and urban corridors, state officials began piloting a similar initiative toward older residential areas that bordered Main Streets and central business districts. Under the title Elm Street Program, older residential areas were the new focus of care. When the program came to the area in 2005, the neighborhoods in Williamsport began to unite. “We started as one of the neighborhood groups that were being created at the time,” NCP member Joshua Hill said. “Each section of Williamsport had a little group to give identity to each project.” The Elm Street Program began with studies in 2005, people started meeting informally under the name of Newberry Community Partnership, and the NCP was incorporated in 2007 as a non-profit. “We are the only group from the Elm Street program that formed and is still working today,” Mary Rucinski, an NCP member said. Alannah Gabriel was the first director hired to head the NCP. “Our organization came about from what the state had been doing with programs all over the state,” Gabriel said. What’s the point of having Main Street businesses if you don’t have a sound neighborhood around it? That’s what Gabriel said was the main question that resulted in their creation. ALWAYS AN INITIATIVE One of the first major projects the 16 West Branch Life
NCP worked on was coming up with a list of properties that were in need of improvements. “We walked down certain areas and members came up with a list of properties and what those properties needed to come up to code,” Rucisnki said. “We then would make the determination on where to put the Elm Street funds.” At least 14 properties received home rehabilitation, exterior renovations, and received assistance to ensure they did not violate code. Over the years, the NCP has had various subcommittees and met with local government and law enforcement officials and honored the partnership aspect of their name. “We would work on a lot of different initiatives,” Hill said. “We would look at local crime statistics and come up with different ideas. We were keeping an eye on anything and everything important to our neighborhood.” Several years ago, the state Department of Transportation cut down trees along the street at the entrance to Newberry. “We had 51 trees cut down along West Fourth Street,” Hill said. “We organized a public meeting with the city and PennDOT. There were 40 people there who were asking questions and putting pressure on PennDOT.” Through their efforts NCP and the city replanted trees and continue to make that a priority for the community. “We want to have that kind of look,” Hill said. “It’s also very healthy for the population. It apparently reduces crime and it increases property value.” ‘MAKE IT FESTIVE’ A large priority for the NCP is helping organize community events. Many of them have become annual fixtures in Newberry, like the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, which has been an event for well over a decade. NCP organizes a neighborhood cleanup with other organizations in the spring and fall. “We make it festive,” Rucisnki said. “We have a good time, take pictures, and
we count the amount of trash and recycles we do. It’s an educational experience learning how it all works locally.” INSIDE NEWBERRY As with any community, a large part of getting anything done is staying informed. NCP does that too, through a quarterly publication called Inside Newberry. “It’s community run and focused on the community,” Hill said. “We include historical perspectives and each issue deals with the past, present, and future of Newberry. It’s an easy way for Newberrians to keep an eye on what is and will be going on here.” Inside Newberry is distributed to different businesses and churches, but it also went online in the early 2010s. WITNESSING CHANGE As the NCP publishes a record of the community and works to maintain it, they’ve watched the community evolve and transform over the years. “I have a unique perspective being here from the very beginning and seeing just how things have changed,” Gabriel said Like the rest of the city, Rucinski said she has seen more rental units and less interest in keeping property ownership. This trend leads to what the members see as less community investment. “To see the transition from all the activity and enthusiasm to where we are today is interesting,” Gabriel said. “So many things have changed. In a lot of cases, people aren't able to join committees and groups. All over things like these are dwindling and dont have participation.” It’s a daunting reality that creates tough questions. “We ask ourselves whether we should close up shop or should we continue,” Hill said. “But in the end the needs of Newberry are still there.” “There are seniors who retired here and grew up here,” Gabriel said. “There are also new people passionate about Newberry.”
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Newberry Community Partnership is a non-political advocacy group that serves Newberry in a wide variety of ways. Among other things, the NCP helps create community events, organizes neighborhood cleanups, and publishes a quarterly newsletter (Inside Newberry) to help keep residents informed.
scenes of the season
LINDA STAGER/West Branch Life
Momma bear and two cubs.
Making Waves >>>>> technology
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Above, and on the previous page, Pennsylvania College of Technology students are shown working in the schoolʼs Robotics and Automation department. At right, a student of the college learns in a Network Administration and Engineering Technology class.
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ehind every evolving industry is rapid technological innovation, and many local businesses and institutions have been a part of that growth since the beginning. Whether it's staying educated on the newest technology, altering services to meet demand, or expanding educational opportunities, the one constant in the local tech field is change, and many predict the area is in the midst of another major transition.
CONSTANTLY CHANGING The School of Engineering Technologies at Pennsylvania College of Technology oversees programs including everything from automotive technology, to forestry, to robotics, to civil engineering. The variety 22 West Branch Life
of programs within the school is a testament to how wide the field has grown over the years. Dr. Bradley M. Webb, the Dean of Engineering Technologies at Penn College, said that what the college offers in the technology field is very different from when the school was founded in 1989. “A good example would be our current engineering design technology programs,” Webb said. “These programs started more than 50 years ago as drafting. At that time, it was paper/pencil drawing of meticulously scaled parts and assemblies. As technology, mainly computers, grew in their availability and processing power, we were able to harness them to do more.” With the advent of the computer as a popular commodity in both business and private life, Penn College began changing
these programs to better prepare students in the field. “Our traditional drafting programs began to adopt computer-aided drafting software. Roughly speaking, we used a computer to draw the 2D image instead of pencil and paper,” Webb said. “This allowed for easier creation/reproduction of the image, and changes to production drawings could be done much more rapidly.” As processing power of these computers continued to grow at an incredible pace, so did the entire idea of what was possible in these educational programs. A large shift was being able to create 2D images on computers rather than by hand. The next step was the ability to conceptualize in an entirely different dimension on computers.
technology <<<<< Making Waves
“In the early 2000s, we were no longer confined to 2D space,” Webb said. “We were adopting 3D modeling of assemblies. We can now create an item in a 3D space and move the model around to see everywhere. We are no longer limited to 2D drawings from various angles. This has tremendously changed how we design new parts and assemblies, as we can now ‘see’ what the part will look like.”
RAPID INNOVATION While tech education was expanding, small businesses offering services in the field were beginning to pop up all around the area. Susquehanna Computer Innovations was created in July of 2000. SCI, now at 280 Kane St., in South Williamsport, has been serving the needs of small and medium businesses, healthcare agencies, public safety agencies, municipalities, and home users for nearly 24 years. “With the company’s leadership and team members firmly rooted in emergency
services, we were originally started to help local and regional public safety agencies make the digital transition from paper reporting, and better use the available technologies in day-to-day operations; and that still remains one of our focuses today,” Tim Heitzman, owner and senior network engineer at SCI, said. “However, what started with emergency services has morphed into us providing a lot of those same services to the small-medium business community and other agencies.” Specifically, SCI provides a full-suite of services, from hardware procurement, network management, cloud service and security management, to cell phone signal boosting, just to name a few. “Oh my, has it changed,” Heitzman said about the field. “The expansion of the internet has changed the way we work, communicate, play and learn.” Heitzman said essentially everything has changed, but the fundamental demand remains the same. Mobile and handheld devices, wireless services, signal
strength management, and network capabilities have changed the possibilities beyond the initial expectations when SCI began. “In the beginning, PC’s and servers connected to a network,” Heitzman said. “Now everything connects to a network, whether hardware or wireless, from your phone to the thermostat on the wall, even the light bulb in your lamp — it can all connect somewhere with the internet as the common denominator.” KVS Computers is a computer service company based out of Hughesville that performs computer repairs, service calls, certified electronics recycling, and sales. They’ve been watching the technology field change from the customer level. Cherif Ammar-Khodja founded KV Consulting in 2005 and added the S in 2007 to reflect the initials of his three daughters. As a small business, AmmarKhodja was working alone repairing items for local residents and small local businesses. West Branch Life 23
Making Waves >>>>> technology PHOTO PROVIDED
Pennsylvania College of Technology students participate during a class in the schoolʼs Information Technology program. “Back then, many devices were fairly open and easy to work inside of to perform repair work,” Shane Anthony Fiester, CIO at KVS, said. As a technician, Fiester ends up handling the majority of customer jobs that come in and has a solid understanding of the electronics recycling aspect of the business. “Over the years, the repairability of devices has drastically changed,” Fiester said. “Many devices, especially mobile devices like phones and tablets, are not being built with the idea of fixing them in mind, they are being built to be thrown away when they break. Whether it is from companies making it difficult to get the exact parts needed or just the price of parts being so high that repairing something is just not reasonable compared to replacing a device.” Another big issue is that most companies do not make spare parts for any more than a year. Fiester said it is common to have to rely on aftermarket parts, which typically are not as good as the original. This is especially noticeable with laptop batteries, he said. “The industry is starting to slowly move back towards making devices more repairable through pushback from their user bases who are tired of having to buy the same thing over and over, and government policy changes to try and limit the amount of electronics being disposed of,” Fiester said.
FOLLOWING TRENDS Most businesses and specialists working in the technology field are constantly working to keep up with innovation and tracking trends. “The technology field moves so quickly that, frankly, you need to be constantly reading up on the latest technology and innovations,” Fiester said. “If you stop for even a little bit you’ll get left behind.” While staying educated on the newest technology, the field remains, in essence, a pioneering, sometimes unpredictable one where new technology can seem like such a leap forward that it causes a stir. “As to what’s ahead, it is anyone’s guess,” Heitzman, of SCI, said. “I think it will definitely be driven more by software and Automated Intelligence (AI), both of which will evolve significantly over the next five years, as it can be integrated into anything, and in some cases already is.
technology <<< Anything from the syrup levels in the soda machine at your favorite burger joint to getting to your favorite fishing spot. However, I believe this new technology will be scrutinized more than any of its predecessors in part because of its ability to learn, who is teaching it and society’s ability to understand it.” Artificial Intelligence programs have made a fast entrance into the technology field just within the recent year. Snapchat has included an AI feature, ChatGPT will write long passages on an endless variety of topics with a few simple prompts, and images can be rendered from a few key words. “I’m sure people are tired of hearing about it, but the big thing that is going to dominate the tech field for the next few years is going to be AI assistants,” Fiester said.” It caught a lot of attention in the industry and now every company is seemingly in a race to get to the front of the pack for AI.” At Penn College, tech programs are watching generative design become more powerful. A user is able to enter specifics in size, material, methods, and cost restraints and the computer will generate designs with those parameters. Engineers are then able to tweak or adopt the design. Webb said this process generally uses some AI and machine learning. “The college is watching the type of trend illustrated above across the vast majority of our academic majors,” Webb said. This is for a number of reasons, he said. The technology automates many actions, allowing personnel to manage multiple machines, as opposed to only one. This is not only cheaper, but can lead to higher production. “This doesn’t mean computers are taking away jobs,” Webb said. “We still need skilled technologists who understand how the technology is being used and what it is doing. They can then, in turn, make the necessary changes to the equipment and manufacturing processes to be as efficient as possible.”
Seth Nolan is an English and Literature teacher at St. John Neumann Regional Academy. He is a former Williamsport Sun-Gazette staffer, having worked as a reporter and editor on the night desk. He is now a correspondent for the Sun-Gazette.
winter hiking <<<<< Making Waves
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Hikers take to the trails at Ricketts Glen State Park. Visitors hiking in winter in the Glens Natural Area must have the required equipment, and need to sign in and out of the park office.
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ith crisp snow on the path and ice freezing waterfalls in time, the tranquility of winter draws some people in to experience nature during a one-of-a-kind hike. Most tend to hike during spring, summer and fall, but adventurers that bundle up to hit the trailheads during winter truly get to experience a wonderland that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. Though obstacles abound from start to finish, hiking during winter allows you to see the beauty of nature in a different environment. Ricketts Glen spans over 13,193 acres in Luzerne, Sullivan and Columbia counties and is a popular hiking destination during all seasons, but in winter there will be less people on the
trail, said Scott Wilson, DCNR Park Manager at Ricketts Glen State Park. Whether you are looking across a frozen Lake Jean, taking in the snowcovered evergreen forests, or viewing waterfalls coated in layers of ice, there is always a beautiful view to be expected. When hiking in the winter at Ricketts Glen, “the trail is often right beside the water or the creek and you’re passing by 22 waterfalls, one after another,” said David Mildenberg, Owner and Wilderness Guide with Valley to Summit. “You’re up close and it is the most magical, beautiful environment.” Valley to Summit is permitted and offers guided winter hikes through Ricketts Glen. The company provides adventurers with the necessary equipment to make sure everyone is safe while on the trail, said Mildenberg. The
guided tours, ranging from half-day (four hours) to full-day (six hours) hikes, are a great fit for anyone looking to get into ice hiking that does not have the required safety equipment for the experience at Ricketts Glen, noted Wilson. When a visitor enters the Glens Natural Area in winter, there are requirements they must adhere to. Visitors must be equipped with the minimum required equipment, like ice crampons (not microspikes), an ice ax, and rope, Wilson said. They also must sign in and out with the park office, which is a requirement for the Falls Trail system “due to its hazardous terrain and ice conditions.” While hiking in winter, follow posted signage, as there could be required equipment depending on the location, Wilson said. It’s also important to keep track of time and keep the weather in
West Branch Life 29
Making Waves >>>>> winter hiking
PHOTOS PROVIDED
With 22 waterfalls sprinkled throughout Ricketts Glen State Park, the beauty of the park is heightened during winter, as the falls freeze and the ground gets covered in snow. mind. “Anytime you take a traditional outdoor activity like hiking [...] and add the additional elements of winter weather and snow and ice to it, it can create additional challenges,” Wilson said. Hiking in the winter can vary in difficulty depending on the trail and the different equipment needed, Wilson added. Some hikes may require a sturdy, waterproof boot with proper clothing, while other trail heads may need more preparation and equipment. Lifelong hiker and Eagle Scout Chris Martin, of Union Township, has always lived close to state game lands. Most often, he hikes near his home alongside his two St. Bernards, who love the snow, and two kids. Scouting taught Martin survival techniques and skills, like building a fire, traversing over obstacles, and administering first-aid. Regardless of the season, though, Martin recommends being prepared when out in nature. When hiking, in Martin’s bag you can find an easy-to-setup camp stove, an MSR Pocket Rocket, nutrition-heavy snacks, a small roll of toilet paper, durable lighter, paracord, a climbing-rated carabiner, a good knife, small field notebook and pen, flashlight, and an extra pair of socks.
winter hiking <<<<< Making Waves “Having a small bottle that fits in the inner pocket of a jacket is helpful to fill with snow,” Martin said. “Keep it under your jacket and it will simply melt from your body heat.” Hiking during the winter presents its own set of unique challenges. It is important to have a comfortable layering system to protect yourself whether it is cold or windy outside, said Mildenberg. It’s easy to add or remove layers to keep your body temperature regulated during a hike while keeping your toes, arms, and extremities warm. “Being able to master your own body temperature one layer at a time is essential when hiking in winter,” Martin said. Valley to Summit emphasizes the importance of comfort during hikes, Mildenberg said. The guides also recommend starting a hike a little cold to help prevent hikers from sweating. Sweating in an extremely cold environment could lead to hypothermia if a hiker was to find themselves outside longer than expected. One of the biggest dangers hikers can face are icy conditions, Wilson said. Winter weather is unpredictable so if a hiker was unprepared and were exposed to extreme cold it could be dangerous. If a hiker was to fall on an icy slope, they may get injured, he added. “With the weather conditions, if you do get injured on your own, it really does become a task of survival,” Mildenberg said. To ensure the safety of their hikers, Valley to Summit sets up ropes that clients are clipped to in order to prevent someone from slipping into subzero waters, Mildenberg added. The cold air and dense snow can quickly “deplete your stored energy,” so it’s important to bring extra food, Martin said. A snowy trail can quickly bog down a hiker and they can lose their momentum — mentally and physically — even on a simple hike. “Try to go with someone who has gone before! They can typically share knowledge and experience to help you have a more enjoyable time,” Wilson said. “Winter hikes that I have done on beginner terrain can be just as fun as ones on more difficult trails.” Hiking a trail that you’ve done in warmer months can also give you a good idea of the terrain and what to expect in winter, Martin said. It is important to take caution when dealing with
icy terrain, and it’s best to take it slow and steady. But with all the challenges comes a truly beautiful experience in nature that not everyone gets, Mildenberg said. While hiking in the Glen, every 10 minutes you could experience what would feel like a different environment from rain, to snow, to icy terrain and warm sun rays. “I’m a huge advocate of people getting out in the winter and experiencing all this wonder,” Mildenberg said. “Every day is different and equally magical. Equally beautiful.” In addition to Ricketts Glen, there are many other State Parks in the West Branch region that offer a variety of trails for people to hike in winter, Wilson said. In winter, the hikes will be quieter than they are during a summer or fall hike, as there will be less people out on the trail. “I personally enjoy the quiet and solitude of crunching through the snow on an untouched trail after a fresh snowfall,” Wilson said. There are a variety of winter adven-
tures and activities that people can participate in like ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice climbing, snowshoeing and winter camping, Wilson and Mildenberg both said. But it seems the tranquility of the season and beautiful scenery is what keeps bringing people back to nature. “You will never hike the same trail more than once. Each time there will be subtle differences, and even though it may only be a change of season or a falling tree, it’s always fascinating to see all the changes,” said Martin.
COURTNEY CIZEK is a correspondent for West Branch Life and a marketing assistant with the Miele Group. She lives in Lycoming County with her husband and two cats.
eats and drinks <<<<< Dockside
PHOTO PROVIDED
Big Mambos Latin Bistro is owned by Nicole and Ronny Rodriguez, who are pictured here along with their son (Mason) and two staff members. The restaurant opened in May of 2019, and has thrived in the years since.
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By NICK SEITZER West Branch Life
UNBURY — When Nicole and Ronny Rodriguez decided to open their own restaurant a few years back, the pair knew they wanted to stay in Sunbury, where Nicole grew up, to help revive the community. In May of 2019, the two got the chance to do just that when they opened Big Mambos Latin Bistro, 9-11 N. Center St. “We fell in love with the location because it is right downtown, but also off the beaten path,” said Nicole. “It
has an adorable patio that we are able to have tables set up outside; and we were able to convert the old office building into a kitchen and pick-up area.” Though Big Mambos was take-out only for its first few years, the Rodriguez’s said their long-term plan always included inside dining. After building the restaurant’s kitchen, money needed to be saved up to renovate the dining area. “Once COVID hit, that put a hold on the plans, and we bought a small food truck,” Nicole said. “This year, we decided to limit the food truck and refocus on inside dining; and our dining
room opened at the end of August.” As the name of the restaurant would have you believe, the dishes at Big Mambos are rooted in Latin cuisine. Ronny’s culinary background traces back to the Dominican Republic, where he took cooking classes, and where his mom owned a bakery. “Our menu is small, but it is consistent,” Nicole said. “We want someone to come have something that they fall in love with, and if they come back again in six months, it to be exactly the same.” Nicole said the restaurant's most popular item is its award-winning Cubano, which is Swiss cheese, appleWest Branch Life 33
Dockside >>>>> eats and drinks
PHOTOS PROVIDED
Specializing in Latin cuisine, the meals at Big Mambos are all extremely popular with the restaurantʼs customers. However, of all the dishes on the menu, the most requested item is the award-winning Cubano (middle), which is Swiss cheese, applewood-smoked ham, Dominican-style pulled pork, pickles and mustard on a toasted ciabatta. wood-smoked ham, Dominican-style pulled pork, pickles and mustard on a toasted ciabatta. “That sandwich has won a few awards and is always a crowd favorite,” Nicole said. “Close runner-ups are our Pernil (Dominican-style pulled pork), flank steak or our steak-fried rice.” In the short while that Big Mambos has operated, Nicole said the restaurant has already established a dedicated customer base of “regulars,” many of whom show up every Tuesday, when Big Mambos rolls out its new taco of the week. “The community support has been a blessing,” she said. “We have a huge following on Facebook, and so many people that share our posts to help spread the word. “And (we have) a lot of great reviews on Google, so when people search for
places to eat, they see some pictures and great reviews to help draw in new people,” she added. According to Nicole, owning and operating a restaurant is “long hours and hard work,” but at the end of the day the effort is worth it if you are following your dream. “Our kids have been amazing, to know the sacrifices they have made and the understanding they have had over the last few years to get this up and running completely,” she said. “And to see the smile on people’s faces when they are eating; and to see families and friends come together in our dining room to enjoy the food that we are creating is such a blessing. “Our customers have become family,” she added. “They have been watching our kids grow up in the business, and we have gotten to know many of
them and their families. It really is such a blessing that we thank God for every single day.” For more information on Big Mambos Latin Bistro, call 570-600-2122 or find them on Facebook.
event calendar <<<<< Dockside
November Nov. 17 6 p.m. Rose Ostrowski McGuiganʼs Public House, Sunbury Nov. 17-19 Victorian Christmas Williamsport
Nov. 18 8 a.m.-2 P.M. Holiday Craft Show/Chicken BBQ Crossroads Nazarene Church, Milton Nov. 18 10 a.m. Mid State Girls on the Run 5k The Miller Center, Lewisburg Nov. 18-19 Will Huffman Toy Train Expo Park Place, Williamsport Nov. 21 11 a.m. LHU Turkey Trot Hill St., Lock Haven
Nov. 21 7 p.m. Dark Star Orchestra Community Arts Center, Williamsport Nov. 23 9 a.m. Pie Day 5k Run/Walk Williamsport
Nov. 24-Dec. 28 “A Christmas Story” Alvina Krause Theatre, Bloomsburg
36 West Branch Life
Nov. 27 10:30 a.m. “Hopeability” James V. Brown Library, Williamsport Nov. 30 7:30 p.m. Mariachi Herencia de Mexico Weis Center, Lewisburg
Nov. 30-Dec. 3 “A Christmas Carol: The Musical” Millbrook Playhouse, Mill Hall
December Dec. 1-3, 7-10, 14-17 “Elf: The Musical” Community Theatre League, Williamsport Dec. 2-3 “The Nutcracker” Community Arts Center, Williamsport
Dec. 5 7:30 p.m. The Illusionists Community Arts Center, Williamsport
Dec. 8 7:30 p.m. Williamsport Symphony Orchestra: “A Broadway Holiday Celebration” Community Arts Center, Williamsport Dec. 9 7:30 p.m. Black Jacket Symphony: “Appetite for Destruction” Community Arts Center, Williamsport Dec. 12 7:30 p.m. Repasz Band: Holiday Concert
Community Arts Center, Williamsport
Dec. 14 10 a.m. Coffee Hour Thomas T. Taber Museum, Williamsport Dec. 18 10:30 a.m. “Hopeability” James V. Brown Library, Williamsport
January
Jan. 5-7 “Alice @ Wonderland” (SPROUTS) Community Theatre League, Williamsport Jan. 6 9 a.m. Susquehanna Riverwalk parkrun Susquehanna Riverwalk, Williamsport Jan. 18-Feb. 4 “Sanctuary City” Alvina Krause Theatre, Bloomsburg
Jan. 23 7:30 p.m. Dancing with the Stars: Live! Community Arts Center, Williamsport
Jan. 27 7:30 p.m. Uptown Music Collective: “The Decade of Grunge” Community Arts Center, Williamsport
Jan. 30 7:30 p.m. Hamid Rahmanian: “Song of the North” Weis Center, Lewisburg