BLOOMSBURG, Pa. – BTE is pleased to announce an audition date for this summer’s ‘Dragons Love Tacos.’ Auditions for children and teens ages 8 to 18 will be held on April 15th at the Alvina Krause Theatre, 226 Center Street, Bloomsburg. The doors will open at 9:30 am, and auditions begin at 10:00 am.
‘Dragons Love Tacos’ is a playful and funny family show. BTE is looking for two casts of community kids for a variety of roles. Everyone auditioning must prepare a 30-second funny pantomime of any activity of their choosing. Make the actions and choices very clear—the bigger, the better! Everyone should also be prepared to show their favorite dance moves (dragons love dancing… and tacos, of course). Callbacks will be held at 1:00 pm the same afternoon. Cast members must be available for afternoon and evening rehearsals beginning May 30th and for performances running from July 6th through July 23rd. More information can be found at www.bte.org/summer. Any questions can be emailed to the Director, Amy Rene Byrne, at amyrenebyrne@gmail.com.
To audition for the play, potential cast members must have had their first COVID vaccination by the audition date and must present their vaccine card upon registering that morning. Everyone cast in the show will be required to be fully vaccinated by the beginning of rehearsals on May 30th. BTE follows the current CDC guidance on what constitutes ‘fully vaccinated’ per age group. Founded in 1978 as an artist driven, community-based resident ensemble, BTE creates innovative work with local and national impact. Today, BTE produces a lively mix of classic and contemporary plays and original theatre education programs for all ages. For more information about our shows and programs, please see www.bte.org.
The Weis Center for the Performing Arts will present two Family Discovery performances in March: The Griegol by Trick of the Light Theatre on Tuesday, March 7 at 7:30 p.m. which is ideal for ages 10+ and Divi Roxx Kids on Saturday, March 11 at 1 p.m. which is ideal for all ages. Both performances will take place in the Concert Hall.
ABOUT THE GRIEGOL Tuesday, March 7 at 7:30 p.m.
The Griegol performance is sponsored, in part, by the Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation and Adriana Rojas and family in memory of Andrew. The Exchange’s Art Cart will offer free all-ages activities from 6:30-7:15 p.m. in the Atrium.
An eerie, elegant wordless tale about death, love, grief and monsters. Suggested for ages 10+.
The Griegol
After their grandmother passes away, a child suspects they are being pursued by the smoke demon shapeshifter of the old woman’s stories. In the tradition of Spirited Away and Coraline, The Griegol is a mythic, gorgeously rendered dark fantasy for brave children and lovers of atmospheric theatre. From Trick of the Light Theatre (The Bookbinder) comes a strikingly inventive new work that conjures magic and laughter out of silhouettes, puppetry, live music and animation. Drawing on the techniques of silent film, audiences see both the stage effects and how they are made. Just as the staging combines hi-fi with lo-fi technology, the story combines the mythic and magic with the domestic and everyday, and a through line of light and love that carries through the darkness.
Trick of the Light Theatre is an award-winning company from Aotearoa/New Zealand, founded by Hannah Smith and Ralph McCubbin Howell. They make theatre that is playful, inventive and thought-provoking that speaks to the here and now. Their shows are unified by their attention to narrative, inventive visual design and belief that theatre should resonate with the wider world. Their latest show, The Griegol, premiered at the Auckland Arts Festival in March 2021.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $16 for seniors 62+ and subscribers, $10 for youth 18 and under, $10 for Bucknell employees and retirees (limit 2), free for Bucknell students and $10 for non-Bucknell students (limit 2).
Tickets are also available in person from several locations including the Weis Center lobby (weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and the CAP Center Box Office, located on the ground floor of the Elaine Langone Center (weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
ABOUT DIVI ROXX KIDS Saturday, March 11 at 1 p.m.
The Divi Roxx Kids performance is sponsored, in part, by the Press Enterprise and the Columbia Montour Visitors Bureau. The Bloomsburg Children’s Museum will offer free pre-performance activities from 12-12:45 p.m. in the Atrium. Activities will include: making a rocking guitar and tambourines, as well as a green screen photo booth.
Run time: 75 minutes, no intermission Suggested for all ages.
Divi Roxx
Divinity “Divi” Roxx is a multi-hyphenated award-winning musician, recording artist and composer who is celebrated for her inspirational lyrics and infectious grooves. Divi Roxx Kids is dedicated to enriching the lives of children and young adults through inspiring, empowering and entertaining music and media that educate and guide them to be the best versions of themselves.
Her career as a bass-player skyrocketed after attending a bass camp led by the legendary Victor Wooten where she was invited to tour with the five-time Grammy Award-winning virtuoso three months after attending the camp.
After touring with Wooten for five years, she toured and performed with Beyoncé as her bassist and musical director. Roxx was a featured soloist and also composed original music for Beyoncé’s I… Am Sasha Fierce tour and DVD. She has appeared on countless television shows including the Grammy Awards, Saturday Night Live, Good Morning America, Ellen and more, with personal highlights a special performance at The White House with President Barack Obama and an appearance on the hit TV show Soul Man.
Despite her appearances with so many legendary and iconic figures, it is in Roxx’s solo performance that she shines brightest. She combines virtuosic bass playing with an eclectic mash-up of hip-hop, rock and funk that she calls “alternative soul.” Her passion for composition combined with her lyrical prowess and electrifying stage presence has earned her the moniker “mood elevator.” Her 2016 release, ImPossible, received critical acclaim and earned her an Independent Music Award for Best Spoken Word Album.
Roxx is furthering her mission to inspire and empower others through her newly formed production company, Divi Roxx Kids. She released her debut, full-length family music album, Ready Set Go!, in 2021. It received critical acclaim and Scholastic Inc. published two of the songs as picture books.
Roxx lives in New Jersey with her family. She joined the Berklee Online teaching staff in the fall.
Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for youth 18 and under: $5. No discounts may be applied.
Tickets are also available in person from several locations including the Weis Center lobby (weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and the CAP Center Box Office, located on the ground floor of the Elaine Langone Center (weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
On Wednesday, February 22nd, The Exchange in Bloomsburg will feature Four Great Guitarists at their monthly Listening Room, beginning at 7:00 pm. Inspired by the Chester & Lester (Chet Atkins and Les Paul) jam session from 1976, which won a Grammy award, Four Great Guitarists will bring together four musicians from a variety of genres who have never played together for an evening of picking and strumming. Spanning several generations, the musicians include Jesse Loewy from Havertown, Pennsylvania; Gabe Stillman from Williamsport; Stew Cutler from Woodstock, New York; and Don Waller from Long Island, N.Y. There is a suggested donation of $10, and seating is limited, so please call for reservations at 570-317-2596.
Jesse Loewy began his musical career at the age of 8, performing at open mic nights in his local area. By the age of 13, he had formed his own band, playing gigs most weekends while keeping up with his school studies and cello lessons. About the same time, Jesse met Lonnie Shields, a long-established Blues musician who took Jesse under his wing. For several years they performed together around the country, including at the Briggs Farm Blues Festival in Nescopeck and The Exchange’s Destination Blues Music Festival. Jesse continues to perform with The Jesse Loewy Band.
After graduating from Boston’s Berklee College of Music in 2015, Gabe Stillman formed his own band and proceeded to make his mark in the Blues world. In 2019 Gabe and his band represented the Billtown Blues Association at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee. Competing against 101 other acts, Gabe’s band was one of four that advanced to the finals. Although they did not win for Best Band, Gabe was honored to be chosen as the Best Guitarist and awarded a custom-made Gibson guitar. Also a prolific songwriter, Gabe wrote 13 of the 15 tracks on his new CD, Just Say the Word. Gabe has recently opened for ZZ Top and Buddy Guy.
With a career of 40+ years playing guitar in a variety of genres, including Jazz, Blues, and Gospel, Stew Cutler has established himself as a bandleader, with seven record releases to his credit, and countless sessions as a sideman for a diverse group of artists including Percy Sledge, Wilson Pickett, Fontella Bass, David Sanborn, Charlie Hunter, Meatloaf, and Sweet Georgia Brown, to name a few. In 2019 Stew performed the standard “How High the Moon” on the soundtrack of Martin Scorsese’s film The Irishman. Also in 2019, he was cast as part of the soundtrack for The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. In April 2022, Stew released his latest recording, The Blues from Another Angle, which is a critically-acclaimed eclectic mix of originals and covers.
Born in Philadelphia, Don Waller is the second youngest of nine kids; his teenage siblings exposed him to early Rock and Roll, and that started a love affair that has lasted a lifetime. Cutting his teeth on the Philly/Jersey/New York club circuit in the ’70s and ’80s, and a brief stint on Warner Brothers Records in the early ’90s, Don has worked steadily throughout the Northeast for over 50 years. In the wake of the Covid pandemic, he has become an in-demand sideman for Rock, Blues, R&B, and Country acts in the New York City area. Don recently completed his first solo album, Between Here and There, which reflects a number of styles.
Four Great Guitarists is the brainchild of William Jay (BJ), who has wanted to recreate the Chester & Lester jam with guitarist friends of his ever since he first heard the original recordings back in the ’70s. During the past 50 years BJ has provided sound reinforcement and stage management to musical and theatrical acts in the U.S. and East Africa. Since July 2017, BJ has collaborated with The Exchange to present a monthly Listening Room on the last Wednesday of the month in the Exchange Gallery. For more information about the Listening Room, please visit ExchangeArts.org/listening-room. Visit the Exchange Gallery Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Hours may vary from week to week; visit ExchangeArts.org/gallery-hours or give a call before you drop in). For more information about The Exchange, visit ExchangeArts.org and Facebook.com/ExchangeArtsDotOrg or call 570-317-2596.
Press Release from PA Department of Conservation & Natural Resources
Harrisburg, PA — The North Branch of the Susquehanna River in northeastern Pennsylvania has been selected by a public vote as the state’s 2023 River of the Year, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn and Janet Sweeney of the Pennsylvania Organization for Waterways and Rivers (POWR) announced today.
“Through planned River of the Year celebrations, public awareness of the value of the North Branch of the Susquehanna River will be increased and major initiatives along this section of the river will be underscored,” Dunn said. “Economic revitalization of river-town communities will enhance access to the river; increase tourism; and provide additional land and water-based recreational opportunities for local residents and visitors alike.”
Flowing from the New York state line to Sunbury near Shikellamy State Park at the confluence with the Susquehanna River West Branch, the Susquehanna River North Branch meanders through eight Pennsylvania counties, including Susquehanna, Bradford, Wyoming, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Columbia, Montour, and Northumberland.
A water trail, the Susquehanna River North Branch is widely used by paddlers, anglers, recreational boaters, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Recreationalists enjoy the calm, class-I waters which serve as both a playground for experienced boaters to explore the area’s natural and historic offerings, as well as a learning ground for new paddlers to develop their skills.
In addition to the paddling opportunities, visitors are surrounded by abundant history.
These historic connections earned the water trail a “National Recreation Trail” designation by the National Park Service in 2009 as part of the larger Captain John Smith National Historic Trail system — a recreation trail that celebrates the exchange of goods and cultures between the early, famed explorer of the Chesapeake Bay and the native peoples of the Susquehanna River basin.
The public was invited to vote online for the River of the Year, choosing from among four waterways nominated.
A total of 11,438 votes were cast, with Susquehanna River North Branch receiving 4,098; the Perkiomen Creek 3,110; Conestoga River 2,490; and Schuylkill River 1,740.
“POWR would like to commend everyone for their support for the nominated rivers, especially for the strong showing of support for the Susquehanna River North Branch,” Sweeney said.
“The River of the Year program continues to engage our communities by providing a wonderful opportunity to showcase all the nominated rivers and the great work being done in Pennsylvania on these resources. We are excited about the opportunity to highlight the Susquehanna River North Branch.”
The Endless Mountains Heritage Region, which nominated the North Branch of the Susquehanna River, will receive a $10,000 Leadership Grant to help fund a slate of year-long 2023 River of the Year activities.
DCNR and the Pennsylvania Organization for Waterways and Rivers will work with the region to create a free, commemorative poster celebrating the North Branch as the 2023 Pennsylvania River of the Year.
“We nominated the North Branch in the hopes of receiving this prestigious designation in conjunction with our organization’s 25th anniversary in 2023 and now that we have it, we couldn’t be more excited,” said Cain Chamberlin, Executive Director of the Endless Mountains Heritage Region.
“We have an array of river paddles and sojourns planned for this year, as well as other outdoor recreation related events that will meld perfectly with our management of the water trail. We’re committed to educating the public about paddling safety and encouraging everyone to be responsible stewards for the Susquehanna and its abundant tributaries.”
Cain thanked the co-manager for the North Branch, the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership, for its help in submitting the nomination and promoting the public voting portion of the contest, as well as the many water trail managers along this section of the river.
In cooperation with DCNR, selection of public voting choices was overseen by the Pennsylvania Organization for Waterways and Rivers, an affiliate of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.
A commemorative River of the Year sojourn is among many paddling trips supported by DCNR and the Pennsylvania Organization for Waterways and Rivers each year.
An independent program, the Pennsylvania Sojourn Program, is a unique series of a dozen such trips on the state’s rivers.
These water-based journeys for canoeists, kayakers, and others raise awareness of the environmental, recreational, tourism, and heritage values of rivers.
𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿! Enjoy a sweet journey through the wineries of Columbia & Montour Counties this Valentine’s season with that special someone, or with your go-to group of friends! From February 10-19, visit seven participating area wineries and enjoy special wine & chocolate features for a chance to win wine-themed prize baskets.
From Friday, February 10th through Sunday, February 19th, trail-goers can travel from winery to winery, tasting delicious seasonal wine features. Along the way, participants will be able to get their tickets stamped at each location. Trail-goers who visit every participating winery will be entered to win one of seven individual winery gift baskets as well as a Grand Prize basket featuring a bottle of wine from each winery.
The wineries participating in the Valentine’s Wine & Chocolate Trail are: 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽𝘀 – 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗻 Address: 4378 Red Rock Rd, Benton, PA 17814 𝗥𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘁𝘀 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗖𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘆 Address: 4360 Red Rock Rd, Benton, PA 17814 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘆 Address: 130 Twin Church Road, Berwick, PA 18603 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗮 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿𝘀 – 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗻 Address: 357A Camp Lavigne Rd, Benton, PA 17814 𝗞𝘂𝗹𝗽𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘁 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝗹’ 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗻 – 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗻 Address: 9 S Comstock Rd, Benton, PA 17814 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘆 & 𝗩𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘆𝗮𝗿𝗱 – 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲/𝗗𝗮𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘁 Address: 1 D and H Ave, Danville, PA 17821 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗗𝗼𝗴𝘀 𝗩𝗶𝗻𝗼 Address: 129 Hidlay Church Road, Bloomsburg, PA 17815
Please note that hours vary for each winery. The trail can be completed at any point from February 10-19 during each winery’s open business hours. Please call ahead or visit individual wineries’ websites or social media pages for individual hours of operation. No purchase necessary to win prize baskets; wine trail tickets are free, but please note that wine tastings at each stop may have fees if you choose to indulge.
𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙞𝙩 𝙒𝙤𝙧𝙠𝙨:
1. If you are interested in participating in the Valentine’s Wine & Chocolate Trail, simply proceed to one of the wineries of your choosing during the posted event dates (you may start at whichever one you’d like). 2. Pick up a FREE event ticket at the first winery you visit – all will have tickets available. 3. Fill out 1/2 of the ticket and turn it in at the first winery. Keep the other half to record stamps/signatures. 4. Enjoy your first seasonal wine tasting and have your ticket authorized in the assigned space for that particular winery. 5. Proceed to the rest of the wineries during their normal business hours and enjoy delectable wines + get more stamps/autographs! 6. At your final winery stop, turn in your completed second half of the ticket to be entered to win any of the prize baskets. All participants who complete every stop on the trail will have a chance to win any of the individual winery baskets and the Grand Prize basket regardless of where they turn in their ticket.
𝙁𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙨:
– Kulpmont Winery at Old Country Barn will have homemade chocolates by Dipped; dark, milk, and white chocolates paired with a variety of their wines
– Three Dogs Vino: Wines paired with variety of wrapped chocolates
– Juniata Valley at Nature’s Outdoors: Ghirardelli Chocolate squares paired with several featured wines. New wine “A Perfect Pear” will be included in the Grand Prize basket.
* MORE FEATURES TO BE ANNOUNCED AS TRAIL APPROACHES.
This year’s Grand Prize Basket – it contains seven bottles of wine and other goodies!
BLOOMSBURG, Pa. – Generally in professional theatre, actors, directors, and production staff spend more than six weeks preparing for a show. BTE’s next show throws all that out the window with White Rabbit Red Rabbit by Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour. Each night will feature a different professional actor being handed a sealed envelope containing the unseen script. From there, anything can happen! The show teeters between comedy and drama, and is not particularly political. Bravely taking the stage will be BTE’s Education Director Abigail Leffler and Resident Acting Company member Elizabeth Dowd, last seen as the narrators in this season’s A Christmas Carol, and Resident Acting Company member Amy Rene Byrne, last seen in The Christians. Leffler will perform on January 12th, Byrne on January 13th, and Dowd on January 14th. The New York run featured actors such as Nathan Lane, Wayne Brady, and F. Murray Abraham.
As each actor is only permitted to perform this show once, this limited engagement is for three nights only, January 12th, 13th, and 14th at 7:30pm! Tickets are $30, with discounted tickets for seniors, young professionals, and students. In celebration of our 45th Season, we are offering two regular tickets for $45, a savings of $15! Patrons can take advantage of this by using code ’45for45′ online, or mentioning it on the phone. Bloomsburg University students are just $9 with a valid BU ID. Call the Box Office at 570-784-8181 or purchase tickets online at www.bte.org.
This show is sponsored by MC Federal Credit Union, Mike and Samantha Capita, Hanna FM, Bigfoot Country, Innotek Computer Consulting, Viamedia, and WNEP. Founded in 1978 as an artist-driven, community-based resident ensemble, BTE creates innovative work with local and national impact. Today, BTE produces a lively mix of classic and contemporary plays and original theatre education programs for all ages. For more information about our shows and programs, please see www.bte.org.
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn announced the public is invited to again vote online for the 2023 Pennsylvania River of the Year, choosing from among four waterways nominated throughout the state.
The Conestoga River, Perkiomen Creek, Schuylkill River, and Susquehanna River—North Branch are the nominations for the 2023 River of the Year. Nominations were based on each waterway’s conservation needs and successes, as well as celebration plans if the nominee is voted 2023 River of the Year.
Dating back well over 300 million years, the Susquehanna River Water Trail’s North Branch is a waterway rooted in history and unparalleled beauty. Steep forested hills, staggering cliffs, Native American lookout points and sacred sites, remains of historic canals and ferry systems, quaint downtowns, and countless connections to industrial booms like the anthracite coal period of the 1800s are unique reminders of this water trail’s fascinating past and unrivaled magnificence.
Courtesy of Susquehanna Greenway Partnership
Flowing from the New York State line to Sunbury, PA near Shikellamy State Park at the confluence with the Susquehanna River’s West Branch, the North Branch meanders through eight Pennsylvania counties including Susquehanna, Bradford, Wyoming, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Columbia, Montour, and Northumberland. Co-managed by the Endless Mountains Heritage Region and the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership, this water trail is widely used by paddlers, anglers, recreational boaters, and wildlife enthusiasts. Recreationalists enjoy the calm, class-I waters which serve as both a playground for experienced boaters to explore the area’s natural and historic offerings, as well as a learning ground for new and novice paddlers to develop their skills. In addition to the paddling opportunities along the waterway, visitors are surrounded by abundant history. These historic connections earned the water trail a “National Recreation Trail” designation by the National Park Service in 2009 as part of the larger Captain John Smith Historic Trail system; a recreation trail that celebrates the exchange of goods and cultures between the early, famed explorer of the Chesapeake Bay and the native peoples of the Susquehanna River basin.
Like most people just graduating from college, Jordan Franklin needed to find a job in 2013 to pay the bills.
So, he went to work remodeling stores for a large national chain. It was good work. He got to travel, and he made money.
But his first passion was art. After all, his bachelor’s degree from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh was in Video Game Art and Design. As a kid, he loved art and gaming. And he was a big fan of the late Frank Frazetta, often called the “Godfather of fantasy art,” who lived for a time in East Stroudsburg where there’s a museum of his work.
Along about 2020, Franklin started to take the art that had become just a hobby to do after his work hours more seriously. He realized that he wasn’t happy. So, he decided to do what he really wanted to do. In 2021 he moved back to Berwick where he had spent his early years before moving to Lock Haven and graduating from high school there.
Dyelute, which is a play on the words dye (a type of paint) and dilute (to thin out), is not your typical art. Franklin’s focus is on concept art and fantasy art.
What is that exactly? Concept art shows visually an idea that can be used in films, video games, animation, comic books or other media before it’s developed into the final product. And fantasy art brings to life supernatural themes, ideas, creatures or settings.
Dyelute creator Jordan Franklin sharing some of his work sketches with me.
“It’s not the conventional art that people go to see,” Franklin told me when I visited his Berwick studio recently. “People want to see art they can hang on the wall. I’m creating original work out of my own imagination.
“I whole-heartedly enjoy making ideas into fleshed out creations and seeing the immaterial become reality.”
Jordan’s stages of work on a “Punk Rock Corgi” character for an art project.
Franklin does commission work for people who have a specific project in mind. He also has several projects of his own currently in work, including a coloring book and a pirate game. He showed me concept art that depicted what enemy characters might look like in the game.
He’s already published one game, “Not A Knight”, that has gamers “…rise from nothing and become the knight you’re meant to be!” Working their way through the game lets the player “…sneak past enemy guards, master archery, show off blacksmithing skill and gain riches.”
A Capture of the Instruction Screen from “Not A Knight”
One of Jordan’s pieces that I brought home with me!
One of the characters on Dyelute’s website caught my eye. Called “DragonBorn Paladin,” Franklin says he created it as a way to develop a character design for a “Dungeons and Dragons” idea. He wanted to work through developing the look, feel, and equipment that this character would use. My oldest grandson is a big Dungeons and Dragons gamer who plays every Saturday with a group of his friends, and I knew he would love it.
Jordan’s process behind “Dragonborn Paladin” character.
As Franklin showed me around his studio and the projects he’s working on, we talked about his commission work for clients. That takes precedence over his own projects, he told me, adding that he’s trying to develop that business.
Artwork for the Adventures of AtlasJordan at work on his sketch tabletSome of Jordan’s character sketch ideasSketch ideas for future projectsDungeons and Dragons character sketchJordan’s Booth at the recent Covered Bridge & Arts FestivalMore work in progress
Of course, that immediately made me think of another teenage grandson who collects “duck stuff” as he calls it and has a birthday in January. What could make a better gift for a doting grandmother to give than a piece of original artwork to hang in his room? Hope he likes what Franklin comes up with!
An early sketch of Franklin’s progress on my commissioned “Duckman” piece!
Have a project you’d like to see him do? Go to dyelute.com and send him an email.
The holidays are a great time of year to spend time with friends and family. If your Thanksgiving travels bring you into Columbia & Montour Counties in the next few weeks, there are plenty of great events and area activities planned that will provide fun for the whole family, beginning Thanksgiving morning with this year’s Run for the Diamonds marathon. After Thanksgiving, the Christmas festivities begin in earnest, including the renowned 76th annual Berwick Christmas Boulevard.
Berwick’s 113th Annual Run for the Diamonds will draw hundreds of participants.
Thursday, November 24th – Thanksgiving Day
Berwick’s 113th Annual “Run for the Diamonds” Race – Before the turkey dinner finds its way to the table, head over to Berwick to be a part of an incredible Thanksgiving Day Tradition – the 113th Annual Run for the Diamonds. The 9-mile course, unchanged from the inaugural route, takes runners throughout the Berwick borough. It is the fifth-oldest road race in America, and starts and ends on Market Street. The race used to be called the “Berwick Marathon” until the 1970’s and 1980’s. However, since the race is too short to qualify as an official marathon, and winners receive diamonds as part of their prize, the name was changed to “Run for the Diamonds” and has stuck ever since. For more information about this year’s race, visit the Event’s Facebook Page or the Run for the Diamonds website.
Although the online registration window has passed, race day registration will be available in person, cash or check only. Don’t want to race? It’s still a great event to be a part of as a spectator. Spectators will come out early to line the course and runners from around the world will gather at the start line. This year will feature a mass start at 10 AM.
Friday, November 25th
Seven Mountains Media Parade of Lights – If you’re already ready to be done with Thanksgiving and gear up for Christmas, look no further than the 2022 Parade of Lights in downtown Bloomsburg. Starting at 6:00 PM on Friday evening, the town will be filled with classic cars, floats, boats, fire trucks, entertainment, and of course – thousands upon thousands of Christmas lights! The parade ushers in the Christmas season when Santa Claus comes to the only Town in Pennsylvania! The parade route forms at 4:30 PM November 25th at the Geisinger Bloomsburg parking lot on Lightstreet Road, moves at 6 PM down Main Street to Market Street to West 5th Street and ends at Winterfest at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds.
For more information, visit the Parade of Lights website. (Below is a preview of what to expect, from a past edition of the Parade of Lights.)
Bloomsburg Fair Winterfest: Day One – This year’s Bloomsburg Fair Winterfest will be held at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds on Friday, November 25th from 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM & Saturday, November 26th from 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM. There will be 150+ craft vendors, food vendors, wineries, 50/50 drawings, horse-drawn wagon rides, Irish Dancers, a cookie contest, photos with Santa, live music, a 5K run/walk, and much more. Parking and Admission to the Fairgrounds for the event will be FREE. Enter at the Main Street entrance of the Fairgrounds (Gate 2). For more information and daily schedule info, please visit the official Event Page.
Knoebels Joy Through the Grove Opening Night – Knoebels Amusement Park’s “Joy Through the Grove” returns for its 3rd year in 2022. The stunning drive through Christmas light display in the park will begin near Impulse roller coaster, travel down the park’s main boulevard, and throughout much of the campground. Joy Through the Grove will happen nightly starting Friday, November 25th through Saturday, December 31st (excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). Daily event hours are 5:30 – 9:00 PM.
Join Santa, Kozmo and friends and enjoy this drive through Christmas light display! There will be over 15 miles of string lights, and over 400 light up pieces.
Knoebels Christmas Village Opening Night – Knoebels Christmas Village is open Thursdays thru Sundays from 4:00 – 9:00 PM between November 25th & December 23rd. Enjoy photos with Santa, snag that perfect Christmas Tree, snack on tasty Knoebels treats or dine on seasonal specialties at Nickle Plate Bar & Grill. Shop for everyone on your list at Knoebels Three Ponds Christmas Shop, all while enjoying charming outdoor Christmas displays, roaring outdoor fires and s’mores! Learn more here.
BTE’s “A Christmas Carol” Food Preview Day – Join the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble in feeding families in need this holiday season and see their 2022 holiday show for free! Bring one or more canned goods per person and see the show on November 25th at 2:00 pm. All non-perishable food items will be donated to the Bloomsburg Food Cupboard. No reservations are needed for this performance, tickets are available at the door. Seating is limited, all tickets are first come, first served.
34th Annual TreeFest in Bloomsburg – TreeFest kicks off on Friday, November 25th from 4:00 – 8:00 PM at the Caldwell Consistory. The event began in 1989, and serves as a fundraiser for the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble (BTE) and supports the local community. TreeFest begins with local Christmas tree growers who donate over a hundred live trees to be trimmed. Then, community volunteers, youth groups, florists, garden clubs, and other local organizations set up and decorate the rooms and the trees for the holidays. Each tree will be sponsored by an area business or individual. Throughout the event, local entertainment is provided, including school choirs, dance groups, and folk musicians. At the conclusion of the year’s festivities, the trees are donated to area families in need.
Admission to this year’s event is $5 per visitor. Visit the TreeFest website to find a coupon for $1 off the cost of admission. Admission is free for children 12 years of age and younger.
2022 TreeFest Schedule: Friday, November 25th: 4:00 – 8:00 PM Saturday, November 26th: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday, November 27th: 12:00 – 4:00 PM Friday, December 2nd: 4:00 – 8:00 PM Saturday, December 3rd: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday, December 4th: 12:00 – 4:00 PM
The Exchange Cash & Carry Show: First Night – Beginning at 6:00 PM on Friday, November 25th, The Exchange Gallery in downtown Bloomsburg will display their annual “Cash & Carry” show, open to the public. Pieces were handed out to interested artists as both squares and triangles; the squares measured 8 inches on a side, and the equilateral triangles measured 9-3/8 inches. Every piece on display will sell for $30, with the artist receiving $24 and the rest going to support the Exchange Gallery’s ongoing operations; sales will begin at 6 PM during Downtown Bloomsburg’s holiday event: All attendees wishing to buy will receive numbers; when sales start, the person with #1 may choose one piece from the walls, and if they want a second piece, they must get another number. So on with #2, #3, etc. This prevents any one buyer from getting “all of the good stuff”, and it makes for a lot of fun. Once the rush ends, the Gallery will open it up to as many pieces as each customer wants. The best part? Artwork may be taken home on the spot, rather than waiting until the end of the show. They make great holiday gifts! Beyond the first night, the show will run through December 30th with all remaining artwork being available for sale during open hours.
Saturday, November 26th
Small Business Saturday – Shop local this holiday season in Columbia & Montour Counties! Support small businesses and visit our area towns and businesses on Small Business Saturday and throughout the rest of the holiday season.
Artspace Gallery Members’ Holiday Show Artist Reception – Artspace Gallery in downtown Bloomsburg is currently displaying their annual Members’ Holiday Show. The show runs from November 17 – December 31 during gallery hours. On Saturday, November 26th from 5:00 – 7:00 PM, the gallery will host an artist reception for the Holiday Show.
Bloomsburg Fair Winterfest: Day Two – This year’s Bloomsburg Fair Winterfest will be held at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds on Friday, November 25th from 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM & Saturday, November 26th from 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM. There will be 150+ craft vendors, food vendors, wineries, 50/50 drawings, horse-drawn wagon rides, Irish Dancers, a cookie contest, photos with Santa, live music, a 5K run/walk, and much more. Parking and Admission to the Fairgrounds for the event will be FREE. Enter at the Main Street entrance of the Fairgrounds (Gate 2). For more information, please visit the official Event Page.
North Pole Express Holiday Train Rides – The North Pole Express is a family tradition in Bloomsburg held annually during Thanksgiving weekend. Enjoy a 1-hour train ride from Bloomsburg to Catawissa with holiday stories, carols, and characters. Learn more here.
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble Presents: Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol –From November 25th – December 28th, join the cast of the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble as a joyful holiday favorite returns! When Bob Cratchit timidly asks for Christmas Day off, his curmudgeonly boss Ebenezer Scrooge only grudgingly gives it to him. Little did Scrooge know what ghostly adventures he was about to go on that very night. Scrooge’s story of forgiveness and joy will be sure to get you in the holiday mood with a fresh new adaptation, lots of holiday music, and theatrical spectacle! Show times vary – please visit BTE’s website for more information and to purchase show tickets.
Downtown Danville Peppermint Trail Passport Begins –Learn more by contacting the Danville Business Alliance.
Sunday, November 27th
North Pole Express Holiday Train Rides – Various Times
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble Presents: A Christmas Carol– 3:00 PM showtime.
Knoebels Christmas Village Continues – 4:00 – 9:00 PM.
Knoebels Joy Through the Grove – 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Monday, November 28th
Exchange Cash & Carry Show: Gallery Open Hours – 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Knoebels Joy Through the Grove – 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday, November 29th – Wednesday, November 30th
Knoebels Joy Through the Grove Continues – 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Knoebels Joy Through the Grove will be a hit with the whole family.
Thursday, December 1st
Welcome Santa Parade & Tree Lighting in Danville – Welcome Santa to his Mill Street home for the Holiday season. The parade downtown starts at 6:30 PM. The downtown Tree Lighting will follow at 7:00 PM.
Artspace Gallery Members’ Holiday Show – 12:00 – 6:00 PM.
Knoebels Christmas Village Continues – 4:00 – 9:00 PM.
Knoebels Joy Through the Grove Continues – 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble Presents: A Christmas Carol – 7:30 PM showtime.
Friday, December 2nd
Downtown Bloomsburg’s Coming Home For Christmas – Visit downtown Bloomsburg for a celebration of the start of the Christmas season. From 5:00 – 9:00 PM, visitors can enjoy late night shopping, live music, a TubaChristmas performance, food & more. The main event of the evening, however, is the lighting of the town Christmas Tree. Santa arrives at 5:30 PM and the tree lighting will take place at 5:45 PM in front of the New Bloomsburg Diner at the corner of East Street and Main Street.
Music Around Town: 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm Kerry Kenny & Friends New Bloomsburg Diner, 161 E. Main St. 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm Molly’s Boys Towne Camera, 154 W. Main St. 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Harmony Arts Foundation Brewski’s 22 E. Main St. 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm M&G Combo Fog & Flame, 34 E. Main St.
Christmas in Downtown Bloomsburg – Photo Courtesy of @starmarie29
Exchange Cash & Carry Show: Gallery Open Hours – 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM + Open Late for Christmas Festivities.
Artspace Gallery Members’ Holiday Show – 12:00 – 6:00 PM.
TreeFest Continues – 4:00 – 8:00 PM
Knoebels Christmas Village Continues – 4:00 – 9:00 PM.
Knoebels Joy Through the Grove Continues – 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble Presents: A Christmas Carol – 7:30 PM showtime.
Visit Santa’s Cottage in Danville – Visit Santa at his Cottage on Fridays from 5:00 – 7:00 PM and Saturdays from 12:00 – 3:00 PM to tell him everything on your wish list this Christmas. Santa loves giving out goody bags and taking pictures!
Saturday, December 3rd
Benton Winterfest – From 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, make your way to the charming town of Benton in northern Columbia County for a day filled with local crafters, food, entertainment, horse-drawn wagon rides, and more.
TreeFest Continues – 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Hometown Holiday Market in Danville – From 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, visit historic Mill Street in Danville for the second annual Hometown Holiday Market. This will be a festive street fair featuring holiday shopping (downtown businesses and craft vendors alike), entertainment, and activities.
Wagon Rides with Santain Downtown Danville – by reservation only, please contact the Danville Business Alliance for more information.
Visit Santa’s Cottage in Danville -12:00 – 3:00 PM.
Artspace Gallery Members’ Holiday Show – 12:00 – 6:00 PM.
Knoebels Christmas Village Continues – 4:00 – 9:00 PM.
Knoebels Joy Through the Grove Continues – 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Berwick Christmas Boulevard OPENING NIGHT – Celebrating its 76th Anniversary in 2022, the Berwick Christmas Boulevard is a must-see spectacle that visitors flock to see from hours away. Market Street will come to life each night from December 3rd – January 1st. This beautiful and historic Berwick tradition provides visitors the opportunity to drive a one mile long display on Market Street to view thousands of Christmas lights, animatronics, decorations, displays, and more. Hundreds of cars pass through each night throughout December. Opening night will feature the town tree-lighting ceremony, followed by the official opening of the holiday boulevard. The Boulevard is open every night from 6:00 – 10:00 PM.
Philadelphia Freedom: A Tribute to Elton John – Philadelphia Freedom: A Tribute to Elton John is the ultimate Elton John tribute. Doug Delescavage is Elton John as he was in his 20’s, full of joy and unlimited energy, commanding his top notch band through all the hits of Elton’s career. Doug owns the stage with his domineering fashion sense rivaling no one but Mr. Captain Fantastic himself. At Bloomsburg University; concert begins at 7:30 PM. Tickets available here.
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble Presents: A Christmas Carol – 7:30 PM showtime.
Sunday, December 4th
TreeFest Final Day – 12:00 – 4:00 PM
Artspace Gallery Members’ Holiday Show – 12:00 – 5:00 PM.
Christmas on the Bridges – 1:00 – 3:00 PM. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy homemade bean soup, a baked good sale, hot chocolate and cider, hayrides, raffles, and more at the Twin Covered Bridges in Orangeville. All proceeds help to preserve, protect, and promote our historical bridges.
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble Presents: A Christmas Carol – 3:00 PM showtime
Catawissa Winterfest – Come celebrate the joy of Christmas starting at 3:00 in Catawissa on Sunday, December 4th. Bring your family out for a live, walk-through Nativity and much more.
Knoebels Christmas Village Continues – 4:00 – 9:00 PM.
Knoebels Joy Through the Grove Continues – 5:30 – 9:00 PM
BLOOMSBURG, PA – Beginning November 25th, more than eighty Christmas trees decorated by community groups, families, and local businesses will be displayed during the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble’s annual TreeFest! Visitors can enjoy the dazzling trees and festive activities in the beautiful Caldwell Consistory at 150 Market Street.
During this annual holiday event, locally grown trees, many of which are donated, are sponsored by businesses and patrons and decorated by community groups. Gift cards, toys, food, and clothing are also often gifted. At the end of the event, local families in need will take home a tree with lights and decorations for the holidays, along with gift cards. The toys are donated to Toys for Tots, and the food will go to the Bloomsburg Food Cupboard.
TreeFest will be open to the public Fridays from 4-8pm, Saturdays 10am-6pm, and Sundays 12-4pm from November 25th until December 4th. Admission is $5, with children 12 and under free! All ticket proceeds benefit the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble.
The two weekends each feature special activities; The Children’s Museum will have its Gingerbread display at TreeFest on the first weekend, and the second weekend will have select vendors for visitors looking for unique gifts. TreeFest will be open to visitors before and after Seven Mountain Media’s Parade of Lights on November 25th at 6pm and Tree Lighting on December 2nd at 5:45pm. Outdoor entertainment at the fountain will follow the Tree Lighting beginning at 6:15pm with Danceworks by Amber, Bloomsburg High School Fusion, and TubaFest. Come into TreeFest and warm up with food and drink by the folks at the Caldwell Consistory!
Santa will be at TreeFest Saturday and Sunday, November 26th and 27th, from 12pm-2pm. He’ll also be back at TreeFest on December 3rd from 12-2pm. There is no cost for children to visit Santa.
There are still trees available for sponsorship. If you are interested or would like more information, please visit www.treefest.org.
About BTE: founded in 1978 as an artist-driven, community-based resident ensemble, BTE creates innovative work with local and national impact. Today, BTE produces a lively mix of classic and contemporary plays and original theatre education programs for all ages. For more information about our shows and programs, please visit www.bte.org.
𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽𝘀 – 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗻
