West Branch Life Magazine Holiday 2022

PUBLISHER

Bob Rolley brolley@sungazette com brolley@lockhaven com

MANAGING EDITOR

Lorena Beniquez lbeniquez@sungazette com

CONTRIBUTORS

Bethany Barrett, Lorena Beniquez, Shri ley Boatman, Len Mahonski, Krissi Miller, Betany See, Joseph W. Smith III, Linda Stager

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lorena Beniquez Mark Nance Linda Stager

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

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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.

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Copyright 2022 by Odgen Newspapers All rights reserved Advertising rates and specifi cations 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 and web sites at www sungazette com and www lockhaven com

The spirit of ... every day

ook for something positive in each day, even if you have to look a little harder.

As I read the stories in this Holiday Edition of West Branch Life magazine, I can’t help but think about the spirit of every day that we all either revel in ... or struggle with

The choice to be positive and do posi tive things was and continues to be made by those featured in this edition.

And with gusto

Bob

Rolley

brolley@sungazette.com brolley@lockhaven.com

Thanks, Victorian Christmas Committee volunteers, for carrying on a wonderful an nual tradition that brings great beauty and spirit to the community through tours of area homes and institutions during “the most wonderful time of year ”

Bless you, Pastor James Bond and members of Watsontown's Revival Taber

nacle, for bringing comfort and aid to the many people in Ukraine who are fighting for their lives for the right to be free

As terror rages against our Ukrainian brethren, we all should be grateful for the gifts in our lives for where we live, for what and who we have

Thank you, Clinton Central Model Rail road Club in Castanea, for continuing to bring joy to kids and adults of all ages with your special model railroad display

We are much obliged, Deb and Jim Schneider, for the smiles you bring to many, many people with your annual holi day decorations at your humble home in Linden

Thank you, Community Arts Center staff, for working to sustain such an impor tant venue in the living room of downtown Williamsport with nostalgic music and en tertainment

Here’s looking forward to CAC’s 50th year in 2023!

Well done, Ron and June Wright and daughter, Melanie Huggins, for investing your time, talent and money in Williamsport with the new Backhouse Cafe Coffee and Tea in one of the city’s architectural jewels

Thanks also to Larry and Stefanie Allison for keeping the wonderful light of Don Waltman’s spirit alive by buying and reopening a business that has been a delicious institution in these parts for decades. The gra cious Don Waltman we all knew and loved would be so happy

No question, dear West Branch Life readers, that it can be difficult to maintain a positive spirit today, given what’s going on in our world.

So take a moment to consider what choice you will make today: Joy or .... Which will it be?

West Branch Life magazine can be found online at www.sungazette.com & www.lockhaven.com

Bethany Barrett has been a writer and photographer for The Williamsport Sun Gazette since last June She enjoys being with family and friends, spending time in nature, writ ing, photography and art bbarrett@sungazette com

Shirley Boatman is a retired high school English teacher from Sullivan County. When her four children were in elementary school, she penned a weekly newspaper column, Say Kay, about their an tics and her husband’s. Now, Boatman is a happy grandmother of five, plus part of The Second Mon day Workshop Group for poetry She may be reached at sbboatman@comcast net

Len Mahonski is a Keystone Press Award winner and former lifestyle, arts and entertainment reporter for the Williamsport Sun Gazette As a single father, his most treasured and heartfelt mo ments are the ones spent with his son, Cole.

Joseph W. Smith III is a writer, teacher and speaker in Central Penn sylvania. His latest book is The Best Movies You Never Saw: 300 Under the Radar Films That Were Over looked, Unjustly Trashed or Just Plain Terrific." He may be reached at robbwhitefan@gmail com

Krissi Miller is a native of the West Branch Valley Graduated from Bishop Neumann High School, Krissi obtained a bachelor degree in educa tion from Lock Haven and did masters work through Marywood University She taught and administrated in area schools for three decades Now retired, Miller's favorite place to be is atop her horse on a PA forest trail Horses have always been a passion of hers She is the author of "Return to Dignity, An An thology of Horse Rescue Stories"

Linda Stager, of Wellsboro, is an award winning outdoor writer and photog rapher Her stories and photos are often showcased in a variety of publications, in cluding 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

Mike Reuther, a Central Pennsylvania native, is a longtime journalist and author His books include Baseball Dreams, Fishing Magic and the Baseball Losers

Our Love of Legacy

By LORENA BENIQUEZ West Branch Life

Our area is rich with commu nity cornerstones and the stakeholders who continue their vitality Millbrook Play house, Candy Cane Lane, Community Arts Center, Victorian Christmas, Purity Candy, Don Waltman’s Meat and Deli and Little League World Series While there are so many more, those are the ones we touch on in this holiday issue of WBL Maybe we should have called this the legacy issue?

Legacy is a tricky business How do you embrace the history of a celebrated entity, while still shepherding its evolution? That is the task Jim Dougherty has been con fronted with as the executive director of the Community Arts Center (CAC). A little over a year at the helm, Dougherty has gracefully navigated both tradition and change by finding new audiences while still catering to ones that have always sup ported the CAC The best part is that his Tunes on Tap event brings even more peo ple downtown and through the CAC’s

doors.

Also, wrestling with the weight of legacy are the new owners of Don Waltman’s Market House Meats and Deli The revered Waltman’s was a beloved brand for decades when married couple Larry and Stefanie Allison purchased the deli Today, it has a new location and new chef, but still offers Waltman’s heirloom dishes. Their specialties will certainly come in handy during the holidays whether you are host ing or attending a celebration

As far as legacy goes, we at WBL have had that on our minds a lot lately, since we are heading towards our 10th birthday next year. Standing in the shadow of the Williamsport Sun Gazette’s 221 years and the Express’s 140 years, we feel a bit silly thinking 10 is cause for celebration but we will be celebrating just the same.

And we would like to celebrate with our readers by giving you a bigger forum in our magazine Please think of us in 2023 when you take pictures at fundraisers, parades, events and whenever there is generally a good time going on Then please send us those photos with a description of the

Lorena Beniquez lbeniquez@sungazette.com

event and who is in the photo along with your contact information We would also like to receive event information in ad vance so we can list it in our calendar of events Feel free to use my email above

From WBLs team, we would like to wish all a beautiful holiday season and a pros perous 2023!

Architectural Jewels Adorned with Holiday Magic

By KRISSI MILLER West Branch Life

“The homes along Williamsport’s ‘Millionaires’ Row’ display some of the most amazing Victorian architecture in the world,” says Cindi Perry about this issue’s Viewing Pleasure, which is brought to you by Victorian Christmas.

Perry, along with Peachie O’Connor, are spearheading this year’s home tour as members of the Victorian Christmas Committee prepare for the Nov. 18 20 event

Built by the great lumber barons dur ing the 1800s, these masterpieces of Williamsport’s lumbering era are so phisticated expressions of the grace and elegance when lumber was king The millionaires that profited from the lum ber boon often vied with each other to build mansions that beguiled the eye

viewing pleasure

and emptied a purse or two

According to Perry, who is fascinated with Williamsport’s lumbering era architecture, a mansion bearing a Fourth Street address was nicknamed The Castle

“It was the first home in the U.S. costing a million dollars,” says Perry When asked about the address, Perry explains it was reportedly de molished decades later by another owner in order to build Ways Gardens.

During the lumber era, “There were more millionaires living on Millionaires Row than on any other single street in the world,” she says

Today, these wonderful homes stand tall and proud between the 400 and 1100 blocks of West Fourth Street in Williamsport. Their archi tecture is a reminder of the beauty and charm of Williamsport’s proud past.

Victorian Christmas celebrates Williamsport’s Victorian homes and does so at the most magi cal time of the year It is an annual event planned and implemented by the Victorian Christmas Committee

Hard working volunteers are responsible for offering visitors the unique opportunity to visit private homes handsomely and artfully deco rated for the holidays. Each year, the hospitality of the participating homeowners is generous and tour goers are warmly welcomed.

This well attended event kicks off the holiday season with a special message according to O’Connor

“It can remind everyone of the true meaning of Christmas that is best celebrated with family and friends coming together at traditional home gatherings, sharing stories of their heritage and past memories,” she believes.

That is exactly what she sees happening on the annual Victorian Christmas tours.

O’Connor has a huge scrapbook filled with the smiles, hugs and happiness of past tour goers who come from across the United States ‘Pointing to one photo, she smiles and says, “See these girls They went to high school to gether almost 50 years ago and here they are together again celebrating the joy of Victorian Christmas!”

Another huge smile breaks over O’Connor’s face and she gets a bit teary eyed as she re members her own past Christmases and loved ones with whom she celebrated

“Christmas is like that,” she says “So full of wonderful memories ”

And so is Williamsport The magnificent ar chitecture is a stately reminder of Williamsport’s solid foundation in greatness and is on full dis play during Victorian Christmas www.victorianchristmas.com

Ricahrd Karp

Victorian Christmas kicks off the holiday season with tours of the areaʼs architectural jewels November 18 - 20.

A Cool Collection of Winter Books

By JOSEPH W. SMITH West Branch Life

Winter is a great time for plowing into a good book So, in honor of this frosty season, how about cuddling up with this cool collection all concerning cold, snow, ice and win ter?

“Endurance” by Alfred Lansing

This is the best known of more than 30 books on Ernest Shackleton’s 1915 Antarctic expedition. After their vessel was crushed by ice, the crew was set adrift on floes. Eventually, six of them took a 22 foot boat across 800 miles of the world’s worst ocean. This in credible survival story has gotten renewed attention this year due to the discovery of Shack leton’s sunken ship, almost perfectly preserved in the icy waters of the Wed dell Sea

“The Call of the Wild”/“White Fang” by Jack London

Several modern editions offer both of London’s early 20th century tales con cerning dogs, wolves and wintry wilder ness. Some also include the author’s quintessential man against nature story, “To Build a Fire.”

“Dead Mountain” by Donnie Eichar

The craziest unsolved mystery ever revolves around nine young hikers dying in an icy Russian wasteland in 1959 Despite their experience and careful planning, they had all fled their tent into the freezing night and were

later found dead, some wearing almost no clothes at all And still, no one knows what happened.

“The Winter of Our Discontent” by John Steinbeck

Though it’s not actually set in winter, I’m tapping this deeply felt morality play because it remains my favorite Stein beck A late career triumph, “Discon tent” involves a likable grocer whose financial struggles have him contem plating bank robbery in his seaside New England town

“The Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats

As my children grew older and we sold or gave away our kids’ books, I hung on to this colorful and charming little story about a tot’s adventures in the snow a treat for all ages.

“The Blue Ice” by Hammond Innes I considered including at least one icy tale from action master Alistair MacLean (“Where Eagles Dare,” “Ice Station Zebra,” “Night Without End”) but Innes is a better writer in that genre This virtually perfect thriller concerns a quest for lost fortune on the mountains and glaciers of Norway.

“Lost in the Barrens” by Farley Mowat

This is an exciting young adult tale of two boys stranded in the Canadian wilderness for an entire win ter, superbly informed by the expertise of naturalist Mowat (“Never Cry Wolf”)

“The White Death” by McKay Jenkins

This utterly enthralling work of nonfiction uses the story of five men killed in a

1969 avalanche to examine mountain climbing, snow, avalanches and search and rescue in the wilderness

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C. S. Lewis

This is the first in Lewis’ beloved seven book fantasy series about the land of Narnia, which is here locked in per petual winter by the wicked White Witch Wise, allegorical and deeply moving

“Smilla’s Sense of Snow” by Peter Hoeg

Set in Denmark and Greenland, this expert thriller begins with a boy falling from a roof and gradually builds to cos mic complexity an ingenious blend of mystery, sci fi, romance and meta physics

“Appleby’s End” by Michael Innes

As one of Innes’ numerous, lovingly written mysteries featur ing British in spector John Appleby, this one offers mur der, statuary, an ancient memoir, lots of snow and the would be Mrs. Ap pleby

“The

Willows at Christmas” by William Horwood

As the last of Horwood’s four follow ups to Kenneth Grahame’s beloved “Wind in the Willows” (1908), you could scarcely ask for a ner re creation of Gra ame’s charming River Bank His animal charac ers reappear to help heir hare brained friend Toad as he struggles with an oppressive house guest, who has ruined Christmas Watch also for Horwood’s “Toad Triumphant,” “The Wil lows and Beyond,” and of course, “The Wil lows in Winter.”

Millbrook’s Best Christmas Pageant Ever

BETHANY BARRETT West Branch Life

Millbrook Playhouse in Mill Hall is ready for another holiday season performance. The playhouse, which has been holding productions since 1963, will present “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical” fro Dec. 9 11 and 14 18.

‘’The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is based on a novel about the worst kids in history who break in and want to do the Christmas pageant and just kind of what happens with that. It’s a great holiday show. It's very sweet It’s a great show for families. It's got a great heart and it’s got a great message,” says David Leidholdt, artistic director at Millbrook Playhouse.

Millbrook Playhouse is primarily a summer stock theater but in recent years it expanded, working on projects year round.

“I love doing holiday shows. It's fun and it’s something different. The arts are important and it's important to have live theater and I love that we're able to do it here and that the board supports this holiday show,” Leidholdt says.

The theater currently does main stage and cabaret pro ductions, spring and youth ensemble productions.

“We're doing something a little different. The best ‘Christ mas Pageant Ever’ is actually a full-scale musical, and with the youth ensemble and some guest professionals,” Leid holdt reveals.

“We've been producing primarily in the summer. In my years here, I've kind of expanded a little bit. We've added a fall show. We've added the youth ensemble shows and then some different things. We have a main stage, which has about 250 seats. It's a thrust, meaning the audience sits on three sides. Then we have a little black box. It's about 100 seats. People are cozy. We have table seating. You can bring in food. We have a bar. It used to be BYOB, but we got a liquor license so you can bring drinks into the theater and so the cabaret is very intimate.”

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical” is based on a popular novel written by Barbara Robinson. The musi cal will be directed and choreographed by Michael Schloegl with Mo Ortbal as music director.

“It's a musical adaptation. So it's a fairly newer adaptation,” Leidholdt says.

“I love it because it also introduces people to the book. We have a lot of teachers who are involved in the board and they like to read the book to their kids. So I think some of them in middle school, maybe early elementary, will know the book or read the book,” he adds.

Millbrook will soon celebrate its 60th year anniversary.

Leidholdt says of the milestone, “Sixty years of small professional theater is amazing. I think it's amazing in a small community to have an organization like this that brings in professional actors. It's great to have that energy come up here.”

millbrookplayhouse.org.

SUN-GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

Millbrook Playhouse presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical.”

By Linda Stager West Branch Life

ori Rankinen from Duboistown muses about her passion for her current project, the local Wreaths Across America campaign

Wreaths Across the Valley for Vets D

She remembers, “One morning I heard a news broadcast and they were trying to get the last 2,000 wreathes at Arlington Cemetery and they said a per son dies twice; once whenever they take their last breath, and then again when there’s no one left to say their name or tell their story and that just grabbed my heart.”

At Wreaths Across America ceremonies every December, each veteran’s name is called out in a tribute to their service to our country as wreaths are laid in select cemeteries

Rankinen vowed that she would join the cause so that local veterans’ stories could be told

Rankinen gathered an inspired volunteer group to give communities extra help in fulfilling the goal of bringing wreaths to their cemeteries. It takes a partnership of busi nesses, individual sponsors and volunteers to do it

Last year was a successful year for the local group, called Central PA Wreaths Across America (CentralPAWAA)

“Last year we ended up working together to cover 5,855 graves It’s so exciting that other communities have joined us and we’re all working together to raise funds. Now we’re

STEVE BAGWELL

Local volunteers with Central PA Wreaths Across America put thousands of wreaths on veteransʼ graves across the area.

looking at a projected 13,000 wreaths this year,” Rankinen offers.

“I knew there were a lot of little communities in the area that wanted to provide wreaths to honor their veterans, but it was a daunting task because of the paperwork involved with the process. I thought we could help Last year, we had 13 cemeter ies starting from Pine Creek down through Jersey Shore into Freedom Road here in Williamsport up into Sullivan County to Mildred for three cemeteries there, and then on to Montgomery This year we’ll be adding three cemeteries in the Danville area ”

The CentralPAWAA Facebook page details the group’s activities and serves as a portal for donations, as well as for purchasing wreaths for specific cemeteries All wreath spon sorships go through the national or ganization which handles donation and tax deduction paperwork

Rankinen wants to add business partners to the group.

“We do events frequently, but I’m

always up for discussing similar partnership opportunities with busi nesses As we fundraise, we look to incorporate individuals as well as businesses It’s powerful to see a community come together for a common cause ”

Volunteers who wish to help dis tribute wreaths should also check the Facebook page. Volunteers re port to the cemetery on distribution day. Individuals and groups of all ages are welcome

Rankinen pauses for a moment, “I’m not able to run up a hill carry ing an 80 pound rucksack. I can’t wake up at 2 o’clock in the morning because there is an invasion and I am needed to help protect others from it So I applaud and honor those who can This is my gift to them ”

How can a volunteer fit this proj ect into their busy schedule? Said Rankinen, “Volunteers don’t have more time They just have more heart.” www.facebook.com/Centralpawaa or call 570-772-2423

STEVE BAGWELL

Dori Rankinen, founder of Central PA Wreaths Across America, with 84th District State Representative Joe Hamm.

Pure Christmas

By BENTHANY SEE West Branch Life

olidays have never been sweeter, since local candy store Purity Candy started sharing its delicious treats With roots going back over 100 years and recipes that have been passed down through generations, it’s stood the test of time and a pandemic

Owner John Burfeindt Jr. never pic tured himself a candy maker He shares, “I was away at boarding school when my parents told me they bought the store. I never thought I’d be making candy, but in 89’, I started working as a candy maker to help my parents,

moved up to president in 1993, and soon became the owner I’ve been in candy for thirty years.” John’s mom still works in the store and his sister is the general manager. John’s wife does the social media aspect of the business on Facebook, Instagram, and their website.

The business has been family owned since 1885 and continues to embrace those values “We have people who visited the store back in the day that reach out asking if we still make this or that, and I say we certainly do,” John says

From chocolate covered pretzel sticks to hard candy, this store has it all Seasons are jammed packed with spe cial treats Thanksgiving has turkey

themed treats to gobble up, while Christmas offers delicious candy canes

Everything is handmade on the premises, between the Lewisburg candy store and Allenwood factory. If you can’t make it to the store, Purity Candy will ship directly to you, making it easy to get bulk batches of candy for holiday events and to give as hostess gifts

“Our best sellers are definitely the chocolate covered pretzel sticks, sea salt caramels, and peanut butter smoothies We stuck with the old fam ily recipes for the pretzel sticks and caramels My dad and I created the recipe for the peanut butter smoothies,” John recounts “I still have the old di aries with the original candy recipes for the caramels and chocolate ”

Before their Allenwood and Lewis burg locations, Purity Candy was nes tled on the Golden Strip in Williamsport “We want to stay a local family business I have no plans to be come a franchise or expanding a great deal We started here as a family busi ness and we’ll always remain that way, “ explains John “Aside from upgrading equipment, we’ll always stick with our roots of family values and handmade candy.”

puritycandy.com

Photos Provided

Since 1865, Purity Candy has been crafting holiday treats at their Lewisburg and Allenwood stores

Pastor James Bond and Parishioners Helping Ukrainians

As things get worse for the people of Ukraine, more and more people are seeking food, water, and shelter.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine, terror has followed.

Desperation has become a com mon motif for refugees trying to es cape the horrors of war. Two pastors living in Ukraine teamed up with Pastor James Bond of Watsontown's Revival Tabernacle to aid those in need in Ukraine.

Pastor Bond has been providing humanitarian aid since the war started.

He and his church have been raising money, which gets wire transferred to the two pastors overseas for supplies.

In Ukraine, groups of people in church vans deliver food to strug gling people and those who have traveled far to escape worse fates.

“We do what we can to help others,” Bond says. “ We stay in contact every few days with the pastors overseas and have given about $14,000 in donations be tween the two of them.”

Monetary support can be do nated by mailing a check to Revival Tabernacle, P.O. Box 38, 960 Susquehanna Trail, Watsontown, Pa., 17777, texting Give Ukraine to 570-600-1167, or through revtab.com.

All proceeds go to humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.

“It's absolutely devastating what’s happening. We are doing what we can to give these people as much help as possible,” Bond

explains. “Borders could be shut down and we don’t know if we’ll be able to send money.”

Bond has also received a lot of pictures of both the devastation and the aid being provided in Ukraine.

“In one picture, you can see what used to be an apartment building before it was bombed. Now it looks like no one has lived there in years. In another, you can see the huge amounts of bread being piled up that so many people need to survive.”

With no end in sight, Bond and the two pastors are doing everything they can to keep up the effort to help as many people as possible.

This isn’t the first time Watsontown’s Revival Tabernacle has gone above and beyond to help others.

The church aids 25 missionaries

B West Branch Life

PHOTO PROVIDED

As Ukranians struggle with the ongoing war with Russia, one area church and pastor are reaching out to help the embattled nation with much needed aid.

around the world, provides the community access to a food pantry twice a month, and helps those in need during the holidays by providing families with gifts.

“When we do the Angel Tree, some one takes an angel and buys what is on the list for the child,” Bond explains.

“The parents are in on it, but for the kids it’s as if the gifts came from their parents. The Bible says when you’re giv ing, do it in secret.”

To find out more about Revival Tab ernacle, head to their website for news, updates and ways you can get involved.

“When we get the word out that we are collecting for a cause, the response from the community is overwhelming,” Bond says.

“We cannot thank the community enough for the support.”

WASTED WHOOPIES

By JOSEPH W SMITH III West Branch Life

If you’re considering a sweet treat for after your holiday meal or New Year’s bash, check out some of these tantalizing flavors: Maple Bacon Bourbon, Pistachio Amaretto, Cap tain & Coke, Boozy Blackberry, Wicked Watermelon, Tequila Sunrise, Peach Bellini, Strawberry Margarita or Irish Car Bomb

What could be better? What if these fla vors came in the form of whoopie pies?

Actually, they do and they are aptly named Wagner’s Wasted Whoopies (WWW) It is the brainchild of Mont gomery’s Mariah Wagner and yes, they do use liquor in their popular confections “We add the alcohol to the icing, so it is not baked out,” Wagner told West Branch Life in a recent interview. “We do make sure the alcohol content is below the legal limit, so we do not require a liquor license ” In this way, WWW can serve those under 21 al though, Wagner adds, “when we are at an event and younger kids approach our table, we always make sure it’s OK with their par ents.”

As of late 2022, these events include something every weekend; and the recent addition of fund raisers has also boosted sales. “Our business has grown tremen dously in the past three years,” says Wagner

It started when she and her husband en joyed visiting wine festivals while in col lege. “We decided that if we were going to continue to attend them and spend all our money on wine,” she recalls, “we might as well find a way to make money while there. I liked to bake, so we went that route. And to set us aside from the rest, we added alco hol So, in August 2019 we started our busi ness and attended our first event at the Montgomery Wine Festival.”

In addition to catering and fund raisers, WWW sells at other wine festivals and handmade craft fairs in Central PA. “We do post our monthly event schedule on Face book for followers to see where we are

going next,” says Wagner.

Currently, WWW has a regular gig at the Lewisburg Farmers Market, from 8 a m to 2 p.m. every Wednesday. Initially outdoors at that year round venue, WWW took this past January and February off due to weather “But now that we are inside,” says Wagner, “we plan to continue there throughout the whole winter ”

Wagner says that’s important because at the moment, “We are a mobile business, so we do not have a storefront. However, we do use a commercial kitchen at Clinton Township Firehall to bake from We do ac cept orders, but we are not looking to open a storefront, as we enjoy having the free dom to roam and visit different areas and various events and communities We are looking at starting a food trailer though! We want to expand and also offer coffee and tea along with the whoopies, and then one day start a full blown food truck ”

WWW’s staff consists of only Wagner and her husband “I typically do all the bak ing and mixing,” she explains, “and he typi cally does the icing and the wrapping.”

Wagner says Peanut Butter Mudslide is the No 1 seller at nearly every event though WWW offers more than 50 flavors, most of which are posted on the Wagner’s Wasted Whoopies page on Facebook. “But that list continues to grow!” the busy baker adds “We try to release at least one new flavor a month. And even though our flavor menu is broken down into seasons, pretty much any flavor can be ordered any time of year ”

Wagner’s Wasted Whoopies on Facebook

Wagnerʼs Wasted Whoopies are handcrafted locally and come in over 50 different boozy flavors

By MIKE REUTHER West Branch Life

ne can see the trains and even hear them, running through villages and past vine covered hillsides, snaking through tunnels, only to reappear on the other side

People come to watch the trains as they swoosh and rumble past tiny homes, factories, warehouses, mining sites, and people comprising an America cast in jewel like miniature Welcome to Central Pennsylvania circa the 1950s a time when railroads underwent a transformation from steam powered to diesel fueled engines. It’s all here at the Clinton Central Model Rail

And, it’s all so wonderful

But make no mistake. The HO scale model layout is the result of many long hours put in by club members Yet, to call it all work and no play would be wrong

The people who design, wire and craft the layout, which takes up a large room of a former train station, are in it for the fun

Oh they also get to play with the trains.

“We are all train nuts,” says Jim Hill, who started the club in 1978 with a model railroad layout in his basement, “I’ve been that way since I could walk.”

He recalls the trains his parents had when he was a kid Club member Wain Schroeder can

trace his love of trains to his boyhood as well

“I had train tracks outside my home,” he says.

For Mike Barnes, club president, the hot passion for model railroading was ig nited when his grandfather got him an O Scale model train set.

Those enthralled with local history will find real delight in spotting some of the features of the train layout

“We try to incorporate the history of Clinton County,” Phil Micklitsch says “It’s not just a loop of track We assimilate what really went on in the 1950s ”

And the rail companies of the day are part of the scene, the rolling stock beck oning names from that golden age of rail roading Reading, Pennsylvania and New York Central.

But to really take in the entire scope of the layout, one must pause at different spots and take notice of some of its won derful, hidden gems The tiny figure of an angler grabs for his catch Hoboes huddle around a fire People paddle boats in a stream. Cars sit before a drive in screen

The club’s 50 members each bring something to the table Some are good with crafting buildings and landscape.

Others might be good with wiring and electricity

But as Micklitsch put it: “You don’t have to know anything about model rail

road Club in Castanea’s old train station in Clinton County

roading to become a member ”

Schroeder stands in a separate room where computer monitors display tracks and movements of the trains.

He likes to spend time here but also at the layout moving the trains around, sending the engines off the switches to

hook up with freight cars

Club members are proud of the tech nology but also the careful craftsmanship that has gone into the train display.

“There is nothing like this in probably a five county area,” Hill says

The club holds open houses to allow

the public to see the trains and their most popular time of the year for visitors is during the holidays

Open houses are set for Nov. 22 & 26; Dec 6, 10, 20, 27, 29, and in 2023, Jan 3, 14, 17, 21, 24 Admission is free ccmrr.org

PHOTOS PROVIDED

The Clinton County Model Railroad Club in Casteneaʼs old train station is a busy place during the holiday season, since trains have traditionally been a big part of Christmas

A family enjoys Christmas lights as they cruise down the driveway at the home of Jim and Deb Schneider in Linden. The decorations are mostly set up by Deb, who begins after Labor Day with over 32,000 lights on the split rail fence along the driveway alone. There are 415 characters operated by 36 timers. Visitors are welcomed to drive or walk up their driveway to see the display.

MARK NANCE/West Branch Life

lights

By SHIRLEY BOATMAN West Branch Life

The spirit of Christmas, as expressed through fes tive lighting and elaborate decorations, is on dis play all over the West Branch Valley during the Christmas season

From Linden to Elysburg and in boroughs and communities in between, lanes and streets are gloriously aglow, beckoning all to come and enjoy

And enjoy they do, either by foot, trolley, car or even Gris wold vehicle Last year, Cody Conner started driving folks in a station wagon resembling the car from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” complete with a Christmas tree perched precariously on the roof.

“I had some customers who were having a Christmas party at The James (in Williamsport) who were from Bellefonte. Then they wanted to drive through Candy Cane Lane,” says Connor (who can be contacted via his Facebook page to schedule transportation)

No matter how you see our lit region, the joy is just the same

TOUR OF LIGHTS

Williamsport’s annual Tour of Lights, slated Dec 15 18, promises another delightful ride through the radiance of Christmas lights and regalia There will be three trolleys mak ing runs from Fourth Street to South Williamsport and Candy Cane Lane, through Brandon Park and back to the Visitors Center at 102 West Fourth Street. Trolley tours begin at 5:30 and run every 15 minutes until 9:30 The event is sponsored

MARK NANCE/West Branch Life

Hundreds of lit Christmas figures decorate the lawn and home at the corner of Hastings and East Center Streets in South Williamsport

Christmas lights

by the Williamsport Lycoming Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with Williamsport Trolleys According to Gina Edwards, tourism coordinator, ticket sales begin in early November at $10 a per son, with free tickets for those two years of age and under Ticket holders 12 and under will receive a goody bag www.williamsport.org

CANDY CANE LANE

One portion of the Tour of Lights is through Duboistown’s Candy Cane Lane, a popular junket since 16 families at a neighborhood picnic in 1957 spawned the idea The names Fullmer, Seese, Kropp, Maneval, Smith, Thorton and Mc Nutt are a few of the families that con tinue to get credit for their role in initiating the Christmas displays, accord ing to many print sources about the Lane over the years

Commenting on the 2022 event, Craig Kropp shares that the reindeer are being remade and hand painted this year and the backdrop for Santa’s Workshop is get ting a new coat. Santa’s sleigh and his helpers sit on the corner of Highland and Summer Streets. The Candy Cane Lane tours, visited by thousands every Christ mas season, are on Summer and Spring Streets

“Last year, we updated our lights that

Lights and figures

crisscross the streets to LED and also doubled the number,” says Kropp, “and many of our displays got a facelift before the 2021 season.” Candy Cane Lane lights up each year from the day after Thanksgiving until New Year’s Eve.

LINDEN

Go west just a few miles to Linden and head to 1977 West Emery Church Road, where you’ll find Charlie Brown, the Grinch, the Island of Misfit Toys, pen guins, zebras and the like, ad (almost) in finitum, decked out amid an array of glowing fairy lights. There are 400 char acters trading off appearances in one Christmas scene or another.

The house of Deb and Jim Schneider was always decorated for Christmas, but about 15 years ago, Deb decided to do more.

“When I started, it was just a personal, fun thing,” Deb says. “But when people drove by, it felt like such a peaceful thing, families going slowly and just en joying the scene ”

She reports Jim helps with the heavy work of decorating, but she enjoys put ting it all together herself. The Schneider driveway loops past the front of the house, and Deb often greets people with

cookies (1,500 cookies last year) She es timates 200 vehicles usually pass by.

“We also have many walkers and it’s all so much fun. Before I started expand ing the decorations, I’d just put them up and go back inside. But now, I love talk ing to the visitors, watching them get such enjoyment from it all,” Deb shares. “To me, it’s all about hope, and we love spreading the joy of that. I hope to keep doing it for a long time ”

Though Deb begins working at it in September, visitors have to wait until the first day of December to begin looping the driveway Deb will be there with Sonny and Lexie, her silver Labs, and Lily, her faithful Weimaraner, waiting to greet all.

KNOEBELS GROVE

This is the third year for Joy Through the Grove at the ever popular Knoebels Amusement park in Elysburg, which is a half hour ride through lanes of creative lighting designs and displays. According to Stacy Yutko, public relations director at Knoebels, the idea for decorating at Christmas had been discussed for years before it became a reality.

Trevor Knoebel, part of the fourth gen eration of family owners, spearheaded

MARK NANCE/West Branch Life

cover the lawn at a home on Jamison Street in Linden.

Making Waves

Christmas lights

the project after a shortened park season in 2019 because of the pandemic.

“We wanted to give people something more, something safe to do when so much was closed down everywhere The joyful ride through the park began in 2020 and we’ve added more lighted dis plays each year,” says Yutko.

She adds that Knoebels’ team of work ers made it all possible, headed by Trevor, and one of the project leads, Jon Slodysko. Along with the ride through the park, a Christmas Village is open at Three Ponds Golf Course, not far from the park. It features grab & go food, gifts and me mentos for sale. “And Santa can some times be found there,” Yutko shares

Snacks are available to through the ex cursion, including kettle corn, cotton candy and fudge available at the admis sions window, along with magic glasses to add even more color to the experi ence Those who book online can also purchase those items with their tickets

The event opens Friday, November 5, and runs through Dec 31, 5:30 9 P M, with the exception of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Character Breakfasts at Christmas Village will also be available to reserve at Nickle Plate Bar and Grill at the golf course.

knoebels.com

MARK NANCE/West Branch Life Motorists slowly cruise along the driveway to get a better view of the Christmas lights at the home of Jim and Deb Schneider in Linden. Some visitors also get an extra treat - a cookie Deb bakes 1,500 each year and gives them away.

Sights of the Season

On top, characters from Snoopy to Minions light up Deb and Jim Schneidersʼ property Above left, Knoebels has created its own holiday magic for the season. Above right, a couple enjoys a walk along the driveway to view the lights at the Schneidersʼ home.

MARK NANCE/West Branch Life

Above, the Community Arts Centerʼs (CAC) Capitol Lounge has been

Tunes on Tap. Below, Jim Dougherty has breathed new life into the CAC

helm in September 2021. In his down time, he hits the drums.

By LEN MAHONSKI West Branch Life

It’s a Friday night at the Com munity Arts Center’s (CAC) Captiol Lounge in Williamsport The place is buzzing and it isn’t even 6 p.m. yet. A mere half hour into the Tunes on Tap event, it is a packed house with standing room only, with most people on the dance floor.

Beyond the reeling bodies op posite the room, there is an eight piece band with not one, but two brass saxes.

The energy is electric The room is lit At the bar, bartenders are serving people two rows deep. Adding to the vibe, the balcony is filled with partygoers toasting the

end of the week with live music, fresh air and a spectacular down town view

This isn’t your grandma’s CAC

Under the new leadership of Jim Dougherty III, the CAC’s exec utive director, there has been an infusion of fresh ideas leading to a variety of new entertainment and shows The future of live entertain ment in our region appears to be brighter and more promising than ever before.

The biggest news to report is the use of the Capitol Lounge to host several different smaller events, when the CAC isn’t holding bigger events in the historic main theater

Dougherty says the lounge, which is accessible from the mez zanine or lobby elevator, is an ex cellent place to see a show

PHOTOS PROVIDED

shaking up Friday night happy hour with

as executive director since taking the

“It’s clean and comfortable It has great acoustics and we have a great bar and staff,” Dougherty says “We try to keep things fresh in that space and offer a variety of different events each month ”

In the past year, the Capitol Lounge has hosted a mix of well received stand up comedy shows, local and regional bands, local breweries and murder mys tery dinner theatre and more.

Generating a lot of buzz is the monthly Tunes on Tap, which Dougherty says is effectively a Friday night happy hour party. The popular event pairs a local band with a local brewery and is held from 5:30 to 7:30 p m It is free and open to the public

“It’s a lot of fun,” he says. “The lounge is a great listening room and

being able to sample some excellent local beers is an added bonus ”

Playing tunes that gave the dance floor its bounce was local band Trip the Light Representing the tap portion of the evening was brewer Rachel Gobin of Axemann Brewery in Bellefonte, who was serving guests one of the brewery’s signature IPAs

David Koziol and Tonya Valentine, who were on the balcony enjoying the live music and fresh air, say they’ve at tended previous Tunes on Tap and weren’t surprised by the turnout

“Every time we come it’s really, really busy,” Valentine says “It’s a different band and different brewery each month that adds to the fun and popularity of the event.” The partygoers said they enjoy the entertainment and new venue

so much, they plan to attend other shows and events held at the Capitol Lounge

Koziol says he directly credits the in crease of activities and people being drawn to the downtown area to the new and exciting events being offered at the CAC.

“The theater and downtown area have really come alive in the last year,” he says. “I believe the CAC to be at the core of the culture here in Williamsport ”

Regarding CAC’s smaller events, Dougherty says it’s not his intent to compete with other businesses down town but rather to draw people to the downtown area hoping it will also ben efit other local businesses.

And that’s exactly what’s been hap

LORENA BENIQUEZ/WBL Staff at the CAC took time for a photo recently. From left are Fred Park, Kristen Walker, Steven Ault, Ana GonzalezWhite, Jim Dougherty, Jordan Miller and Tom Bressler.

Above, the CAC brings world class performers to its stage.

pening.

Many Tunes on Tap attendees who have attended shows at the lounge say the 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. timeslot is ideal. It allows time to browse local shops and have a great dinner at one of the many local downtown restaurants after the show.

If live music and beer isn’t your ideal pairing, there’s more at the CAC to draw you in The variety of events held in the lounge offer a little something for every one Perhaps the most popular event is the on going Comedy Zone series, in which a pair of nationally touring come dians are brought in each month to do stand up shows

“They’ve all sold out so far,” Dougherty says. “It’s really been a blast to see people coming back.”

Vicky Stryker, who has attended sev eral of the new shows and smaller events, says it’s not just the great enter tainment, but the setting itself that is one of the biggest draws

“The Capitol Lounge is just such an awesome place,” Stryker says. “The inti

mate setting and relaxed atmosphere of a smaller venue makes for a perfect night ”

JoAnn DiPasquale, who was accompa nying Stryker, says the shows being of fered are welcomed and are the reason she keeps coming back

“It’s so much fun and the new events held in the lounge are great,” says Di Pasquale “I appreciate the variety of en tertainment and wish they would do more ”

That is exactly what Dougherty and the CAC plan to do Admitting the CAC hasn’t booked a lot of entertainment in the past that appeals to younger genera tions, such as Gen Z or Millennials, a plan is in place to offer even more di verse entertainment and make the com munity theater more inclusive.

Dougherty says it’s a transformation the CAC is willing to embrace

“I’d love to change that, but it takes time,” he says. “I’m working with various booking agents now to try to experiment with some acts that appeal to a younger and broader demographic ”

But the executive director also under

PHOTO PROVIDED

stands the importance of the CAC’s long standing history of serving the local community

“That’s a core part of our mission So certainly I want to maintain that long term support and keep our longtime pa trons happy,” he says “It’s definitely a balancing act and it’s a relationship that’s going to take time to cultivate.”

Dougherty, who grew up in Williamsport and spent much of his youth playing in various bands as a drummer, also has an undergraduate de gree in film and media production and credits both for his success

“I’m fortunate to be able to bring a fairly broad perspective to this position,” he says “So I have a strong understand ing of the local community and what kind of entertainment people in North Central Pennsylvania like ”

Dougherty stresses none of the suc cesses over the past year would have been possible without the dedication and determination of the CAC staff and

the steadfast support of many others throughout the community.

“We’re very lucky as a venue to have the support of Pennsylvania College of Technology and our community partners particularly during the height of the pandemic,” Dougherty says “Their help was absolutely indispensable in keeping us running.”

There are many reasons the CAC, which represents the passion, dedication and values of the community for which the building is named, has remained a pillar Dougherty and the CAC staff have a deep appreciation for the area

“Honestly the most enjoyable part of this for me has been feeling like I’m con tributing to a positive impact for the community,” Dougherty says

“I love this town and being able to help bring quality entertainment and support the local economy is something that really is rewarding on a personal and professional level.”

If you haven’t seen a show at the CAC

The CAC remains a pillar of the areaʼs entertainment community, as well as a great place to catch a parade streetside or from the second floor of its Capitol Lounge.

in a while, check out what’s new and once again experience the magic and excitement of the performing arts at one of the state’s premier, restored theaters.

You can also revisit old favorites like the CAC’s annual “Nutcracker” produc tion or a performance from the Williamsport Symphony Orchestra.

“We have a great team here and there’s nothing quite like the energy of a show day at the CAC,” Dougherty says

“It’s immensely satisfying to stand center stage in front of a full house and hear people’s excitement as I introduce a band or performance.” caclive.com

PHOTO PROVIDED

Dozens of area businesses,

vendors and more gathered in the gymnasium at Lock Haven Catholic School for its annual fall festival. The festival took place on Saturday, Oct. 1, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. and saw a steady stream of area residents stop by and show support for the school From fall themed crafts, homegoods, food and more, there was something for everyone.

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Montgomery boysʼ soccer players pose with a check signifiying how much money was raised for their Red Card Cancer event held in September. In total, the team raised $1,911.06.

PHOTO PROVIDED

craft

South Williamsportʼs

Aleigha Rieppel kickʼs a 25-yard field goal against Hughesville on October 21. Before late August, Rieppel never had kicked a football and before the Hughesville game, no South Williamsport kicker had made a field goal since 2016.

SUN GAZETTE

File Photo

LORENA BENIQUEZ /West Branch Life

In August, The James V. Brown Libraryʼs held its Hilariously Funny Book Chat with Author Emily Flake (left), who penned “That Was Awkward: The Art & Etiquette of the Akward Hug.”

LORENA BENIQUEZ/West Branch Life West Branch Life magazine and Williamsport Sun Gazette Publisher Bob Rolley welcomes WBL writers and pho tographers to the Thomas T. Taber Museum Community Room in Williamsport for a creative summit.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Members of Clinton County 4-H Club, Mane Attraction, pause for a photo while planting mums at Phelps Chapel. The club meets monthly at the church outside Jersey Shore and wanted to give back to the church Members spent the evening cleaning and sanitizing all of the tables in the churchʼs social hall before heading outside to weed flowerbeds and plant mums, giving the landscaping an autumn makeover.

A f a m i l y v i s i t s t h e B i c y c l e R e A f a m i l y v i s i t s t h e B i c y c l e R e -c y c l e s t o r e i n W i l l i a m s p o r t , c y c l e s t o r e i n W i l l i a m s p o r t , w h e r e c y c l i s t s a r e t a u g h t t o r e w h e r e c y c l i s t s a r e t a u g h t t o r e -p a i r t h e i r b i c y c l e s a n d c a n b u y p a i r t h e i r b i c y c l e s a n d c a n b u y u s e d o n e s a t r e d u c e d p r i c e s . u s e d o n e s a t r e d u c e d p r i c e s .

PHOTO PROVIDED

PHOTO PROVIDED Fall kicked into high gear in Walker Township, Centre County, recently. The townshipʼs parks and recreation committee held its annual Fall Festival in September. Hundreds of residents were on hand to enjoy the free and fun activities on the warm, sunny, autumn day. A little girl holds a snake during the festival.

LORENA BENIQUEZ/West Branch Life

The West Branch Life magazine, Express and Williamsport Sun-Gazette community newspaper team pauses moments before stepping off in the Grand Slam Parade in Williamsport in August.

By LORENA BENIQUEZ West Branch Life

Before Ron Wright could open his new cafe, he needed a space that was relaxed and roomy enough for customers.

He and co owners, June Wright and Melanie Huggins (his wife and daughter, respectively), began the process of finding the perfect space to open the Backhouse Cafe Coffee and Tea in Williamsport. After touring the Victorian Queen Anne at 901 West 4th Street in 2015, they walked away initially

“The price at that time was out of our range. It just wasn’t feasible,” says Ron Fast forward a year later After looking at six other properties, June decided to give the Victorian Queen Anne another look after the home’s price dropped

“We wanted to create a homey space. This had all that to offer and then some It was well kept and the layout and look of the place was everything we wanted and more,” says Ron.

The home had been a bed and breakfast and home to the Thomas T Taber Museum’s Women of the 1800s Museum

LORENA BENIQUEZ/West Branch Life This historically rich Victorian Queen Anne in Williamsport is now home to the Backhouse Cafe Coffee and Tea, a cozy and welcoming place.

left, husband

“We always give full disclosure that we did none of [the remodeling]. The walls, floors and light fixtures were all done by the museum,” says Ron.

Today, it is a flourishing cafe, where the home itself acts as a host.

“Customers say it is relaxing,” notes Ron.

Despite its grandness, the space ex udes warmth. The mahogany walls, cozy decor, fireplaces and wainscoting invite guests to linger longer with Backhouse’s caffeinated creations and baked goods

Ron’s favorite space is the parlor, which overlooks the lawn, with its red umbrellas atop tables

“I love the rich darkness of the ma hogany and how the wood was tooled,” says the co owner, who often relaxes there with June after the cafe’s doors are closed for the night

Architect Amos Wagner designed the house built in 1890 for Henry Johnson, a Pennsylvanian state senator Wagner was prolific in building Williamsport land marks that include the Hart Building and

St Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Parish, to name a couple.

Wagner was fastidious about detail in the cafe. From the fanlight transom, gen erously sized crown molding and the oak staircase, the architect stayed true to the Victorians’ penchant for lavishness

Ron points out the structure’s intrica cies, “The wainscoting has a common el ement that runs through the whole house. It’s not the same everywhere In the tea room, there are checkered patterns but in the parlor there are checkered patterns and Greek key designs.”

The cafe’s architectural jewels shine that much brighter when festooned with holiday decor Lighted garland winds down the staircase and adorns two fire places, giving the space a cozy and fes tive atmosphere

It’s the perfect place to relax away from the whirlwind of holiday events with a peppermint hot chocolate, maple spice supremo latte' or a pumpkin scone backhousecafe.com

LORENA BENIQUEZ/West Branch Life Above, customers enjoy holiday decor and relaxing atmosphere a the cafe. At

and wife, Ron and June Wright, are co owner of the cafe with their daughter, Melanie Huggins.

By LORENA BENIQUEZ West Branch Life

When Don Waltman decided to close Don Waltman’s Meats and Deli after over 70 years of operation in Williamsport, it was the end of an era almost

That was until Larry Allison bought the business, along with Waltman’s recipes.

Upon arriving home after sealing the deal, Larry announced to his wife, Stefanie, “Honey, I bought a deli ”

Taking on a beloved brand that has been around since 1950 could have been a daunting task But Stefanie and Larry gracefully navigated the transition

“Don Waltman’s Meat and Deli was an institution and we are thrilled to be able to bring new life to this iconic Williamsport institution,” says Stefanie

The new venture is now named Don Waltman’s Market House Meats & Deli and relocated from downtown to the Golden Strip in Loyalsock Township

Also new is the addition of Chef Owen Rutan, who has taken charge of their in house menu and catering. His food philosophy is quite simple.

“I think booze and bacon make everything better. Food is like music. It’s a matter of taste literally,” says Rutan Stafanie adds, “Owen is constantly evolving and dedi cated to growing the business ”

While the new incarnation of Waltman’s has added menu items, they were pru dent to keep old favorites like the Smithgall & Ging sausage, pimento spread, ham spread and side salads, such as broccoli, cauliflower and macaroni

And there is a long list of new menu items, such as Rutan’s Apple Bacon Sweet Potato Hash that pairs well with turkey or ham (see recipe) for the holidays. In addi tion, they have breakfast and lunch menus, plus sweet somethings that include homemade cookies, cupcakes and tiramisu

“We are a one stop shop for all your favorites,” says Stefanie Waltman’s also has a meat case packed with steaks, ground beef and much more.

Waltman’s carries products from over 45 vendors Woodrich, Alabaster Coffee and Tea Roaster, Economy Locker Country Store Meats and Lycoming Bakery are just a few of them.

Says Stefanie, “We like to provide our community an opportunity to showcase all the great businesses in the area We have a great relationship with a lot of local and Pennsylvania based vendors ”

dwmarkethouse.com

Apple Bacon Sweet Potato Hash

Rutan created this recipe that can be served with Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner And if the holidays are too busy to find time to cook, just pick it up at Waltmanʼs

Ingredients

5 large sweet potatoes

12 Granny Smith apples

2 pounds Country Store bacon

1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning

Directions

Dice sweet potatoes and bring to a boil Turn down heat and simmer until tender Julian bacon into matchstick sized pieces Dice ap ples, then brown bacon to render the fat Add apples Cook until tender Add cooked sweet potatoes, then season with lemon pepper Serve warm

Opposite page, Don Waltmanʼs Market House Meats and Deli in Loyalsock Township is the evolution of the original Don Waltmanʼs in downtown Williamsport. At left, Owen Rutan and Stefanie Allison, chef and co-owner, respectively, are keeping the best of the old deli, while adding new delicious offerings.

LORENA BENIQUEZ/West Branch

Dockside >>>>> event calendar

We know your holiday schedule is already overflowing, but who can resist these merry events? Please confirm each event’s hours and dates before attending.

Happy Holidays!

November

November 11 12, 5:30 9 p m

The Annual Invitational Artists Exhi bition and Sale

First United Methodist Church, Muncy

November 12, 10 3 p m

Santa Jump Jamboree Beech Creek Community Center, Beech Creek

November 12 13, 9 5 p.m.

Holly Mart Christmas Bazaar Lock Haven Catholic School Gym, Lock Haven

November 13, 2 5 p.m.

Titanic The Musical Christ Wesleyan Church, Milton Campus

November 13, 3 5 p.m.

Williamsport Civic Chorus St. Markʼs Lutheran Church, Williamsport

November 15 - December 14

Holiday Seafood Sale hosted by The Sentimental Journey to Cub Haven Fly-In Piper Memorial Airport, Lock Haven

November 18, 6 - 7 p m

Holiday Parade Downtown Williamsport

November 18 20

Victorian Christmas Williamsport

November 19 20, 8:00 a m

Hunterʼs Breakfast Kettle Creek Hose Company, Cross Fork

November 22 26

Clinton Central Model Railroad Club Open House Castanea Train Station, Lock Haven

November 26, 6 p.m.

Lock Haven Holiday Parade Downtown Lock Haven

December

December 3

38th Annual Dickens of a Christmas Downtown Wellsboro

December 3, 6 8 p.m.

Festival of Lights Brandon Park, Williamsport

December 3, 9 - 3 p.m.

Whistle Stop Electric Train Show Woodward Township Fire Hall, Linden

November 26 27, 8 a m

Hunterʼs Breakfast Kettle Creek Hose Company, Cross Fork

November 26 & December 3, 10, 17

Small Business Saturdays Downtown Lock Haven

November 27, 2 p.m.

Flaming Foliage Christmas Parade Downtown Renovo

November 30, 1:30 6 p.m.

Red Cross Blood Drive Holy Spirit Parish, Lock Haven

December 9 11 & 14 18

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical” Millbrook Playhouse, Mill Hall

December 9 11 & 15 18

“Miracle on 34th Street” Community Theatre League, Williamsport

December 20, 7:30 p.m.

CTL Concert Series Community Theatre League, Williamsport

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