Inside Pennsylvania Magazine - Spring 2026

PA

STEWARDS OF HISTORY

Reenactors embody area, national figures AROUND

THE WORLD

Valley hiker enjoys exercise, natural sights

From the Editor ...

While spring is a time for new beginnings, America’s semiquincentennial offers us an opportunity to look at the past and learn from it. This edition of Inside PA is about our roots — both figurative and literal.

For some, such as historical re-enactors, their passions lie in giving people a new avenue to learn about the roots of our nation. Whether it comes from bringing a little-known soldier in the French & Indian War to life, as dozens do each year during the Warrior RunFort Freeland Heritage Days near Turbotville, or having frequent science demonstrations as a famous chemist who was a compatriot of Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and other founding fathers, re-enactors breathe new life into history.

Their existence could be the bridge for somebody who might not get the same benefits from a textbook to learn about history or science.

In the case of the Yuengling Brewing Company, the roots are those of a family tree. The company has carved out its place in Pennsylvania and U.S. history as the nation’s oldest brewery, surviving unlikely odds through financial uncertainty and Prohibition. With Dick Yuengling Jr. at the helm of the nearly 200-year-old company, his four daughters are dedicated to continuing its legacy.

While it’s easy to focus on the big events, people such as Robert Lee show that the little things have just as much value. His digs, which started in his own backyard and have grown to number more than 400, unearth pottery, photos and more to see what people leave behind. While the discoveries might not be momentous, they do connect us with the people who helped build the Valley simply by choosing to make it their home.

With Arbor Day approaching, there’s no better time to celebrate trees and the benefits they provide. Lewisburg and Selinsgrove both recognize the community and environmental impact trees have. The municipalities are part of a network dedicated to planting and preserving trees, maintaining the ecosystem that needs them.

Lastly, while roots are essential to becoming a stronger nation or individual, it doesn’t hurt to be reminded that we can branch out, as hiker Paul Shaw did. The Valley man has traveled to more than a dozen countries, meeting new people and experiencing life at his own pace. And he doesn’t plan on stopping soon. Even if you can’t travel to foreign countries, you can start in your own backyard in one of the Valley’s many trails or parks so that you can appreciate the surrounding beauty

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TheHome e With a ContinuingCareCommunity

Cover photo by Lauren A. Little via Yuengling’s Brewing Company: Debbie Yuengling, Sheryl Yuengling, Jennifer Yuengling and Wendy Yuengling comprise the sixth generation of family members at the Yuengling Brewery, in Pottsville.

Tips to revitalize a garden this spring

Gardening is a rewarding hobby that pays a host of significant dividends. Many people love gardening because it allows them to spend time outdoors, and that simple pleasure is indeed a notable benefit of working in a garden. But the National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture notes that gardening provides a host of additional benefits, including helping people get sufficient levels of exercise, reduce stress and improve mood.

With so much to gain from gardening, it’s no wonder people look forward to getting their hands dirty in the garden each spring. As the weather warms up, consider these tips to help bring a garden back to life.

❏ Discard the dead weight. Winter can take its toll on a garden, even in regions where the weather between December and early spring is not especially harsh. Discard dead plants that have lingered into spring and prune any perennials that need it. Branches that fell during winter storms also should be removed at this point if they have not previously been discarded.

❏ Test the soil. Soil testing kits can be purchased at local garden centers and home improvement retailers. Such tests are inexpensive and can reveal if the soil needs to be amended to help plants thrive in the months to come.

❏ Mulch garden beds. Mulching benefits a garden by

helping soil retain moisture and preventing the growth of weeds. Various garden experts note that mulching in spring can prevent weed seeds from germinating over the course of spring and summer. That means plants won’t have to fight with weeds for water when the temperature warms up. It also means gardeners won’t have to spend time pulling weeds this summer.

❏ Inspect your irrigation system. Homeowners with in-ground irrigation systems or above-ground systems that utilize a drip or soaker function can inspect the systems before plants begin to bloom. Damaged sprinkler heads or torn lines can deprive plants of water they will need to bloom and ultimately thrive once the weather warms up.

❏ Tune up your tools. Gardening tools have likely been sitting around gathering dust since fall. Serious gardeners know that tools can be expensive, so it pays to protect that investment by maintaining the tools. Sharpened pruners help make plants less vulnerable to infestation and infection. Well-maintained tools like shovels and hoes also make more demanding gardening jobs a little bit easier, so don’t forget to tune up your tools before the weather warms up.

It’s almost gardening season, which means gardeners can start on the necessary prep work to ensure their gardens grow in strong and beautiful this spring.

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Robert Inglis is an award-winning photographer for The Daily Item. In 2023, Inglis’s 20-year Retrospective of Photographic Journalism was exhibited at the Degenstein Library in Sunbury. Robert Inglis

KEEPING HISTORY

IValley re-enactors find joy by sharing the past with others

By Tricia Kline

n their passion to preserve the past, some local history lovers have spent countless hours researching and reenacting, honoring those who have gone before, and teaching and inspiring others to carry on their legacies into the future.

As the connectors of past and present, these historical portrayers have embraced the central Susquehanna Valley’s rich history and this creative mission to keep it alive.

Lynn Otto, 72, of Tremont, began historical reenacting in 1984, and has spent years portraying local historical figures with organizations such as the Warrior Run-Fort Freeland Heritage Society, the Weiser Battalion and the Augusta Regiment.

“Long ago, I heard a noted historian say, ‘If you do not understand where you came from, how can we plan and lead in the future,’” he said. “That has been my motto ever since. It is amazing how many people locally do not know the history of their area, and I feel we can provide that.”

Terry Diener, 73, of Valley Township, began doing historical reenactments during a 150th anniversary celebration in the area. He also began writing a weekly local newspaper column about the region’s history.

“It’s important for people to know their history — where they came from, where their relatives came from,” Diener said. “If they dig deep enough, they will find some of their ancestors were indeed local soldiers in the Revolutionary and Civil wars, or in the World War I and II. We need to be proud of what these men did.”

A SIDE CAREER

Most reenactors pursue history as a side “career.” For example, Diener for many years was a radio announcer, and Otto spent 41 years in the concrete accessories industry. But Ron Blatchley, of New Berlin, uniquely found a way to combine his chemistry career and his historical

interests quite seamlessly in the historical personage of Joseph Priestley.

The 83-year-old Williamsport native, while pursuing his master’s degree in Pittsburgh to become a chemistry teacher, took a course in the history of science and was fascinated by what he learned.

Soon after securing a teaching position in Mifflinburg, he learned of the then-recent opening of the Joseph Priestley House in Northumberland. Priestley was a renowned 18th century chemist (among many attributes for which he rose to fame), so Blatchley said “it all came together.”

Blatchley visited the museum often, but said he had no official affiliation with it until 1983 — the year the directors were planning to commemorate Priestley’s 250th birthday. As part of the celebration, he said, “they were looking for a chemist who could perform chemistry demonstrations to illustrate Priestley’s work.

“I cheerfully volunteered.”

Blatchley proceeded to collect as much authentic-looking chemistry equipment as he could find, and strapped on a period costume his wife Frances had made him for a previous

I love that I am able to teach people a bit of local history along with a bit of chemistry and make it all feel like fun. Because, of course, it is fun. “ ”

celebration of the nation’s bicentennial. That year, he said, “I was the very first costumed volunteer.”

His chemistry demonstrations and his portrayal of Priestley went so well, he was invited back, and has now portrayed Priestley there for 43 years.

Blatchley can be found dressed and acting like Priestley at the museum’s various annual celebrations, including Charter Day and Priestley’s birthday in March; Oxygen Day in August — to commemorate Priestley’s discovery of oxygen on Aug. 1, 1774 — and Twelfth Night the first Sunday of each new year.

In addition, Blatchley said he is sometimes asked to do demonstrations for special occasions or visitors, such as the American Chemical Society, and, he said, “I have taken the show on the road to 10 states, Canada and twice to the U.K.”

“I love that I am able to teach people a bit of local history along with a bit of chemistry, and make it all feel like fun,” Blatchley said.

“Because, of course, it is fun.”

PICKING PERSONAS

For other historical reenactors, picking who they want to portray may take a little more time and research.

Otto began in 1984 with reenactments of the Revolutionary War. Then in 1992, he said, “I shifted time periods and regressed into doing the French and Indian War.”

He joined the Weiser Battalion in 1992, and then the Augusta Regiment in 2001. The latter, he said, was responsible for building and manning Fort Augusta — located in what today is Sunbury. It was a Pennsylvania British Provincial unit formed in 1756 to help defend the frontier.

“As at that time period,” he said, “we were all loyal British subjects, and this unit was under the British Army control.”

Otto said for a long time he portrayed the unit commanders from both the Weiser Battalion and Augusta Regiment — Captain Christian Busse and Col. James Burd. Currently, he portrays a private in ranks. He said they do about six to eight events per year in locations throughout Pennsylvania, New York and Maryland.

In the early ‘90s, when he began volunteering with the Weiser Homestead in Womelsdorf, Otto learned more about Conrad Weiser — the “very important Indian interpreter in the mid-18th century” — and fell in love with the French and Indian War period.

That is the interval represented in the popular annual Heritage Days event by the Warrior Run-Fort Freeland Heritage Society, in which Otto has participated for many years as part of the reenactment of the 1779 relief column battle. For many years, he portrayed the captain, Hawkins Boone. The reenact-

... We might be the only history book or history a person learns or sees. We need to be the best that we can be in teaching and portraying this great hobby. “ ”

— Lynn Otto, re-enactor

ment includes actors portraying the opposing British forces, which include Native Americans who were loyal to the British.

“We actually do the reenactment on the same ground where the gallant men with Boone were killed and buried,” Otto said.

“Portraying the American forces there has been very rewarding, as one can feel and walk in the very footsteps of these brave men.”

While living in Lebanon County, Diener said he discovered a monument for the 93rd PA Regiment of the Civil War. When he later moved to Montour County, he delved into Civil War research, even going to the National Archives in Washington, D.C., and learned that one of the companies in that same regiment consisted of about 200 soldiers from Montour County. Diener learned of Col. Charles Eckman, and was intrigued by his story of leaving his job as a boatman on the Pennsylvania Canal to enlist in the army. He quickly rose in the ranks to become the colonel of the entire regiment.

He was wounded in several battles and commanded a brigade in the Army of the Potomac. At the end of the war, he was offered the position of brigadier general but, Diener said, turned it down, having seen enough of war.

“He was well-loved by his men,” Diener said.

“They would do anything for him.”

Diener has portrayed Eckman in local cemetery tours as part of the Iron Heritage Festival in Danville; at a 2015 tour of Eckman’s historical home and in local parades.

During the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, he portrayed Eckman at speaking events and as a witness of the reenactment

of Lee’s surrender to Grant at Appomattox Courthouse.

One of Diener’s favorite moments was marching down West Market Street in Danville with James Getty, the well-known Lincoln impersonator, during a historical ceremony in 2014.

MOTIVATION

While Diener is not currently involved in reenacting, he does operate a website, Susquehannafootprints.com, where he writes weekly stories about the region’s history. He has written several books related to history in Montour County.

The area is rich in history that was significant to the country’s formation, and this is the year that Diener hopes more people will get involved in keeping it alive.

“Here we are celebrating the 250th anniversary of America,” he said, and many people know very little about the events surrounding the Revolution, which carried on well into the 1780s.

In all of the research into the personas, uniforms and weaponry of bygone eras, historical reenactors seek to be as authentic as possible.

Otto said the most important point is “to remember we might be the only history book or history a person learns or sees. We need to be the best that we can be in teaching and portraying this great hobby.”

Earlier in his career, Otto said, he enjoyed reenacting the big battles. But now his greatest enjoyment is in the portrayals of “living history” — one-on-one interactions with people.

“Talking with adults and children and seeing that flicker in their eyes,” he said, “makes it all worthwhile. It is those moments, I become more of an educator than reenactor.”

Yuengling family’s legacy still brewing

Sisters committed to sustaining nearly 200-year-old business

By Cindy O. Herman

Family businesses can run the gamut from farms and law firms to bakeries and home builders. But being a member of America’s oldest brewery has to be one of the coolest family enterprises ever.

Dick Yuengling Jr., CEO and owner, bought Yuengling & Son Inc., from his father in 1985. He now works with his four daughters: Wendy Yuengling, chief administrative officer; Debbie Yuengling, employee engagement & culture manager; Sheryl Yuengling, order services/administration; and Jennifer Yuengling, vice president of operations.

The business opened as the Eagle Brewery in 1829 when David G. Yuengling arrived in Pottsville, Schuylkill County, from Wuerttemberg, Germany. Fire destroyed the brewery in 1831, and a new one was built into the steep hillside of Mahantongo Street, where beer is still brewed today.

In 1873, David’s son, Frederick, joined the business and the name was changed to D.G. Yuengling & Son. But the eagle logo didn’t go far. It can be seen on most Yuengling cans and bottles today, a nod to the family’s heritage and commitment to quality.

It’s rare for any business to be approaching 200 years, and probably even rarer for it to have remained in the same family all those years. Generation after generation of Yuenglings have chosen to continue brewing vats of their famous, refreshing beverage.

“For us, staying with the brewery isn’t just about carrying on a business — it’s about honoring a legacy

that’s been woven into our family for nearly two centuries,” Wendy Yuengling said.

“When you grow up watching generation after generation pour their time, energy and heart into something, it becomes more than a company. It becomes part of who you are.”

As satisfying as a cool brew can be, keeping the brewery going wasn’t always easy.

“When I took over in 1985, things were tough and there were times it felt pretty overwhelming,” Dick Yuengling said. “But what kept me going was a mix of determination and pride.”

Four generations of Yuenglings had maintained the brewery before Dick took over as the fifth generation leader. He said he wasn’t about to be the generation that let the brewery close after the hard work of the ones who had gone before him.

“I believed in what we were doing, I loved the work, and I felt a responsibility to our employees and our community,” he said. “That sense of commitment — and maybe a little stubbornness — is what pushed me through the scariest times.”

Two years later, with the support of his brewmaster, Ray Norbert, Dick reintroduced Yuengling Traditional Amber Lager. By 1996,

the brewery could not keep up with demand. Reluctantly, production was limited to local areas, but two years later, Dick Yuengling built a second brewery at Mill Creek, three miles away.

Over the following years, more beers were added, including Bock Beer, Oktoberfest, Summer Wheat, IPL and even a mango-flavored Bongo Fizz. In 2020, Yuengling & Sons Inc., entered a joint venture with Molson Coors, allowing further expansion. That same year, ground was broken for the Yuengling Tampa Campus, featuring a restaurant, outdoor recreation and entertainment areas,

a beer garden, a pilot brewing system and, of course, an array of Yuengling beers.

With family members so engaged in the business, holidays could have easily melded into corporate meetings.

“At family holidays and gettogethers, the brewery definitely comes up — it’s such a big part of our lives that a little ‘shop talk’ is almost inevitable,” Wendy Yuengling said. “But we’re also very mindful of keeping family time just that: family time. We try to keep the focus on enjoying each other, catching up over a few beers, and being present.”

They have the gift of recognizing the importance of cherishing their family bond.

“Over the years, we’ve found a good rhythm,” Wendy said. “If someone has exciting news or a story from the brewery, it’s shared. But when it’s time to relax and unwind, we all know how to set work aside.

“In the end, we’re a family first, and that balance is what keeps our time together meaningful.”

When disagreements arise, they focus on respecting the strengths and perspectives that each of them brings to different areas of the business.

“What makes it work is that we genuinely value one another’s expertise,” Wendy said. “We communicate openly, share what we’re seeing in our departments, and then come together around what’s best for the brewery.

“There’s a lot of respect between us, and that goes a long way. We lean on each other, we listen, and we try to always align on the bigger picture — keeping the brewery strong for the next generation. That shared commitment makes working together feel natural, even when we’re approaching things from different sides of the business.”

Growing up with three sisters was bound to create some sagas and stories, but Wendy Yuengling simply said it was “always lively and full of personality.”

“What we remember most, though, is how we balanced each other,” she said. “Even with different personalities, we stuck together, supported one another, and learned to play to each other’s strengths. Those same qualities are what help us work well together in the business today.”

Yuengling Facts

1829, David G. Yuengling started the Eagle Brewery in Pottsville, after arriving from Wuerttemberg Germany.

1920, Yuengling survived Prohibition by producing near beer products (nonalcoholic PorTor, .5 percent alcohol) and constructing a dairy across the street.

1933, Celebrated end of Prohibition by producing Winner Beer and shipping a truckload to President Franklin D. Roosevelt on Dec. 5 … the day the 21st Amendment was ratified.

1985, Dick Yuengling, Jr., took over as the fifth generation to lead Yuengling.

Yuengling is now sold in 30 states.

Yuengling is made in three breweries:

1. The original site, on 5th and Mahantongo Street, in Pottsville

2. Mill Creek brewery, just three miles away

3. Tampa, Florida, Yuengling Draft Haus & Kitchen

Uncover the past

Robert Lee discovers remnants of everyday life in people’s back yards

By Elyse Spahr

Robert Lee has been digging up artifacts in local areas for the past 21 years. Throughout his 430 digs he’s found items ranging from ink wells to local medicines.

Lee said he started digging as a way to find antique pottery, beginning behind his apartment in Bloomsburg years ago before moving on to his neighbors’ yards.

“The rarest item would have to be a denture plate for a child,” he said. After discovering this item he sent it to a dentist to have it X-rayed and found out exciting news regarding the pins. “They were made of gold,” Lee said.

In addition to rare artifacts, he’s found artifacts that are more than 200 years old.

“The oldest (artifacts) are just touching into the 1700s, probably 1790 is my guess. It puts into play that we weren’t here yet,” he said, truly dating the establishment of colonization.

The oldest find was a simple household item — a spoon with the king’s crown stamped on the back.

Discovering local artifacts has also brought him closer to his family history. When he started digging around in Montour County, he told The Daily Item in 2009, he found some artifacts belonging to his ancestors.

“I received my lineage in a dig, and found my great-great-grandfather’s whisky bottle,” he said.

Along with uncovering history, he has a passion for giving back and educating his community.

He said he will sometimes conduct public digs, giving visitors an opportunity to see firsthand what can be found. His first public dig was during the 2008 Iron Heritage Festival in Danville. Last year, he was at the Gallery, 15 N. Water St., Lewisburg, which houses The Union County Historical Society and The Lewisburg Arts Council.

Lee worked closely with Warrior Run School District to enhance the town’s educational tools along with frequently going into local schools to discuss his findings.

“I’ve been the potter at Warrior Run/ Fort Freeland historic event for 31 years,” he said.

He has worked closely with Lewisburg high schooler Jackson Gaul for the past year.

“Robert has taught me so much about digs and local artifacts, such as the discipline, patience and many digging and restoring techniques that go on behind the scenes,” Gaul said. “My favorite artifact I’ve ever found was a St. Drake’s bitters whiskey bottle that dates back to around the 1860 to 1862 range.”

Gaul plans to pursue a career in archaeology, taking his newfound knowledge and connections to that space.

To those inspired by Lee’s conquest of discovery, he urges caution when going out on digs. “Watch out for mercury, lead and arsenic,” he said. He added that while they are unlikely to cause harm, diggers still should take the precaution.

“I’m never coming out covered in dirt,” he said.

enough to still have Diehl’s image intact, which is rare for Lee to find. A container of

and

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ROOTED IN COMMUNITY

Lewisburg, Selinsgrove celebrate trees on more than Arbor Day

By Katrina Hook

As winter melts into spring, the Susquehanna Valley is preparing to honor Arbor Day on Friday, April 24. As communities plan celebrations and plantings this spring, local officials and educators hope to inspire residents to sustain environmental and cultural assets for future generations.

One program helping with that goal is Tree City USA. The national program was founded by the Arbor Day Foundation in 1976, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters. The initiative aims to celebrate communities, including Selinsgrove and Lewisburg, that commit to effective forest management.

According to the Arbor Day Foundation, 48 percent of the U.S. population lives in one of more than 3,587 Tree Cities. This spring, Lewisburg will celebrate 41 years as a Tree City and has received The Tree City Growth Award — which the organization describes as an honor presented to communities demonstrating higher levels of tree care and community engagement during the calendar year — three times. Selinsgrove has participated in the program for 17 years and received a Tree City USA recognition award in 2022.

To qualify for Tree City USA, municipalities must meet the following requirements:

1. Establish a dedicated group or department responsible for tree care.

2. Adopt a city ordinance that governs the planting, maintenance, and removal of public trees.

3. Maintain an annual budget of at least $2 per capita for urban forestry.

4. Observe Arbor Day with a formal proclamation and celebration.

Participating communities receive recognition and signage, as well as what the foundation describes as a “boost in community pride.” Across all 50 states, more than $2 billion is invested annually in planting nearly one million trees.

The Arbor Day Foundation focuses on planting trees in populated areas, but welcomes cities of all sizes to take part in the initiative, noting, “trees improve the world wherever they’re planted.”

Tree City USA advocates put effort into caring about the environment, which influences every element of daily life. “People love to live in a city that takes pride in itself, and these projects can have an even bigger impact on our fu-

ture,” the organization’s website said, emphasizing the lasting impacts of tree planting efforts:

1. Climate change: Trees store carbon dioxide from the air in their wood, slowing the buildup of gases in the atmosphere.

2. Mental and physical health: Walking in parks and access to green spaces encourage community members to stay active and reduce the impacts of mental illness.

3. Pollution removal: Particulate matter from fossil fuels is filtrated by trees, removing air pollution, which can reduce the impacts of asthma.

4. Shading and flooding: In some areas, shade from trees can cool cities by up to 10 degrees, while also providing structural protection to soil that lessens the impacts of flooding and runoff.

5. Community pride: Tree programs provide an opportunity for communities to have ownership in their town’s environmental responsibilities.

LEWISBURG’S CULTURAL FOCUS

“Everyone has a tree story,” said Kathryn Maguet, executive director of the Weis Center for the Performing Arts at Bucknell University. “That’s the genesis of the Weis Center’s Tree Series this year. Artists from all disciplines and all walks of life have always been inspired by the beauty and majesty of trees.”

The Weis Center plans to explore trees from academic, environmental and artistic perspectives. The center

advocated that “Trees, such as the venerable elders that stand in The Grove on our campus, connect us to a larger-than-human scale, embodying a geologic time we can see, smell and touch.”

In an effort to highlight the history and meaning of trees, the Weis Center Tree Series will include several performances, lectures and even walks led by professors and outside performers.

Lewisburg operates a Shade Tree Commission, which seeks tree care educational opportunities while sharing the responsibility of tree care with its residents. The Shade Tree Commission acknowledges trees are typically “the first impression that a visitor has of a community,” placing emphasis on creating an atmosphere in which guests will enjoy “lingering” in as they shop.

SELINSGROVE TO SOW SEEDS

In Selinsgrove, the Shade Tree Commission is joined by additional

forces. While the Selinsgrove Borough Council gives the Shade Tree Commission exclusive custody of borough trees and regularly completes planting initiatives, Susquehanna University students are taking efforts a step further.

Susquehanna University senior Jay Schofield serves as a student representative for a newly formed campus tree committee and intends to enforce tree rules while carrying out educational projects.

“People don’t always think about how trees impact the world around us,” Schofield said. “The trees here are really special, and we’re excited to play a part in keeping them around.”

The committee is planning an inaugural Arbor Day event and hopes to secure funding for additional plantings.

The campus is also pursuing designation as a Higher Education Tree Campus, an Arbor Day Foundation initiative extending Tree City USA concepts into educational settings.

2024 BY THE NUMBERS 3,587 Tree Cities 48% U.S. Population Living In A Tree City USA $10.77 Spent Per Capita $2,038,740,545

Total Invested In Urban Forestry Management 991,969 Trees Planted 1,038,152 Volunteer Hours

72 First Year Cities

Valley hiker travels around the world

Hobby allows man to enjoy exercise, natural sights

By Cindy O. Herman

From trails across Pennsylvania through ancient paths around the world, people can find breathtaking beauty, historical structures and unexpected danger. Paul Shaw, of Snydertown, has seen it all. Shaw, 75, organized hiking trips through the Sierra Club in Central Pennsylvania, as the executive director of the Keystone Trails Association, and through his business, Treks & Trails International. He has retired from the business but leads hiking trips for friends.

“I have hiked one of the world’s northernmost hiking trails, the Kungsleden in Arctic Sweden, and the world’s southernmost hiking trail, the Dientes Circuit on the far tip of South America, and many places in between,” he said.

He’s led 13 trips to Iceland, including two with Ed Lawrence and Cathy McLaughlin, of Orangeville. They’ve also been to Sweden and England with Shaw.

“Everyone that has ever gone on a trip with Paul has been very satisfied,” Lawrence said, noting that his trips

WHERE WAS PAUL?

Paul Shaw has hiked in 13 countries and on three different continents — North and South America and Europe. His European hikes are depicted by pins on the map, but below are all the places Paul has hiked:

THE AMERICAS

1. U.S. (All over, but especially Pa., Texas, N.Y. and California)

2. Canada (Newfoundland, Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia)

3. Mexico (Oaxaca)

4. U.S. Virgin Islands

5. Patagonia (Chile and Argentina)

EUROPE

1. Iceland

2. Norway

3. Sweden

4. Faroe Islands

5. Shetland Islands

6. Scotland

7. Ireland

8. Wales

9. England

10. Spain

11. Andorra

Photo provided On a hiking trip

Paul Shaw led to Newfoundland, humpback whales surfaced, breached and swam under and around the group’s excursion on a Zodiac raft.

include days for exploring sites along the way. “He’s very detail-oriented and very easy to get along with.”

Shaw’s adventures read like a feature in “National Geographic.” He likes to find places a bit off the beaten track.

“Loads of people have done the Camino in Spain. I wanted to do the Northern Camino (in Norway),” he said. “I like to hike in Newfoundland. Not many people go there to hike.”

He arranges Newfoundland trips for July, when migrating humpback whales are spouting and breaching along the coast. He also plans a Zodiac raft excursion. Recently, the captain spotted some whales and shut off the engines.

“Let’sMeetat TheStreet”

“The whales are huge. They’re like 50 feet long, right? They come over to us, and for the next 20 minutes they’re swimming under our raft. They’re breaching like 10 feet next to the raft,” Shaw said, wonder shining in his eyes.

“They’re so big, they easily could flip the raft over if they wanted. For them, I think they were entertaining us.”

One whale lifted its flipper and laid it down in front of Shaw.

“

The whales are huge. They’re like 50 feet long, right? They come over to us, and for the next 20 minutes they’re swimming under our raft.

— Paul Shaw, hiker ”

“I could have reached out and touched it if I wasn’t in such shock,” he said with a laugh.

On another Newfoundland trip in Gros Morne National Park, a young moose circled the campsite, getting closer each time. Suddenly, he disappeared.

“A few minutes later, this Newfoundland couple runs down the trail toward my tent with the moose in hot pursuit, and they dove into my tent,”

Shaw said. “At the very last minute the moose veered off.”

Later, Shaw was resting on his sleeping bag when the ground started shaking: Boom! Boom!

“I opened the tent flap, and there was the biggest bull moose I ever saw walking right through our camp,” he said.

Shaw has led groups on a 100-mile section of St. Olav’s Way, a medieval pilgrim’s route in Norway sometimes

referred to as the Northern Camino. From Oslo to Trondheim, it goes through “spectacularly beautiful” valleys and mountains, allowing hikers to rest in huts and inns that were built in the 1300s.

Because he enjoys researching almost as much as hiking, he loves taking people to places such as Hadrian’s Wall and the Vindolanda Museum, on the border between Britannia and what is now Scotland.

Guests can see archaeological finds preserved in the unique soil pits where people tossed their trash.

“They have been digging out the most amazing things,” Shaw said. “There’s a huge display of women’s shoes, and they are just as stylish as what you would see today.”

Other finds include thin sheets of wood the people wrote notes on — like a teacher telling a pupil to do better, or invitations to parties thrown by the fort commander.

While there are no doubt easier ways to explore places than hiking, Shaw said his way has taught him a lot.

“I’ve learned that the world is a beautiful place filled with kind, beautiful people,” he said. “Traveling on foot has allowed me to experience cultures on a deeply personal level resulting in greater empathy for others. We don’t have all the answers and if we keep an open mind during our travels, there is much to learn.”

TENSE MOMENTS

In the North Atlantic, Shaw took a small group of friends to the Faroe Islands, known for dramatic mountains and unpredictable weather. Shaw’s group planned an eightmile hike in Tórshavn, the capital, crossing a mountain and catching a bus that would return them to the city. Halfway through, a dense fog rolled in; they couldn’t see 10 feet in front of them, he said.

“My fear was that my GPS would run out of juice, and we’d be stranded in the middle of this island in total fog. And the temperature was around 40, 45 degrees, so it was getting dicey,” he said.

Fortunately, the fog lifted just enough for him to spot the road below. They managed to hike down to the bus stop and were on their way.

“It seems like the most memorable things are the mishaps,” he said with a smile.

His most dangerous trip was to the Dientes Circuit on the far tip of South America, in 2009.

“You have to register with the police, and if you don’t show up within a certain prescribed time, they’ll come out and look for your body,” Shaw said with a laugh. “It’s that dangerous.”

Snow can come at any time, and parts of the trail are quite steep. At a place called the Virginia Pass, the only way down was through a series of perilous switchbacks.

“It was one of those deals where if you lost your balance

and went over the side, you were going to keep going for a long time,” Shaw said. “We were careful, took our time.

“That trip was the most challenging that we did.”

Hiking can also bring unexpectedly poignant moments. Early one morning in Oaxaca, in Southern Mexico, Shaw was awakened to the sound of trumpets and children singing.

“They walked from house to house, serenading the mothers for Mother’s Day,” he said. “And after they had visited all the mothers in the village, they went to the local cemetery and serenaded all the dead mothers. It was very touching.”

KEEP GOING

Remarkably, Shaw continues to hike even after surgeries to replace a shoulder, both knees and, recently, his second hip.

“You should see me at airports,” he said, laughing at the implants setting off metal detectors.

His good physical condition sped his recovery to the point of leading a trip to Wales three months after his second knee replacement. As he recuperates, he takes smaller hikes in state forests.

“We’re really lucky here in Central Pennsylvania. There’s just such an abundance of places to go if you really like hiking,” he said.

In fact, he, Lawrence and McLaughlin were planning a hike this February when wind chills reached minus-20 degrees.

“We’ll wear micro-spikes and bundle up,” Lawrence said. Until Shaw’s hip completely heals, he’ll stick to the local, three- or four-mile treks.

“I love the fresh air. There’s a lot of camaraderie in hiking with other people, although I also enjoy hiking by myself, too,” he said. “As long as I can, I’m going to keep doing it.”

HIKING SPOTS IN THE SUSQUEHANNA RIVER

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful walk in nature, the Susquehanna River Valley offers some of Central Pennsylvania’s most scenic trails — from riverside strolls to forested mountain paths.

Milton State Park

Features roughly 3.5 miles of trails winding across an island in the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. These trails are perfect for anyone who loves water views and easy terrain.

Shikellamy State Park

Boasts a 1.5-mile paved trail along the river at the Marina, plus 1.7 miles of wooded trail at the Overlook. There’s a mix of paved paths along the river at the Marina, and wooded trails with views of the confluence of the river at the Overlook.

Watsontown Towpath Trail

For a gentle, historic hike, check out this 1-mile trail, which follows the old canal route along the West Branch, with riverside scenery and panels that explain

the area’s past.

R.B. Winter State Park

The 6.3 miles of trails at R.B. Winter State Park in Mifflinburg wind through diverse terrain and vary from easy to more challenging. Many of the park’s trails connect to the surrounding Bald Eagle State Forest.

Bald Eagle State Forest

Spanning nearly 195,000 acres across five counties, Bald Eagle State Forest offers 320 miles of trails with opportunities for hiking

through ridge-and-valley terrain, mature woods and streams.

Buffalo Valley Rail Trail

Stretching nearly 10 miles between Lewisburg and Mifflinburg, this trail is ideal for hikers of all ages — and it’s perfect for combining a walk with biking or running.

Trails by Community Groups

Local land conservancies — such as Merrill W. Linn Land and Waterways Conservancy — maintain

RIVER VALLEY

streamside loop trails like Dale’s Ridge and Koons Trail near Lewisburg and Mifflinburg, rich in wildflowers and birdlife each spring.

No matter your pace or preference, the Susquehanna River Valley has a trail waiting to help you connect with the outdoors. Check out www.VisitCentralPA.org for more information.

— Submitted by the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau

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Events around Inside PA

March 17

VIDEO GAMES IN CONCERT

220 W. 4th St., Williamsport

Join the Williamsport Symphony Orchestra and experience your favorite games as never before. Video Games in Concert is an immersive experience with WSO performing music from cherished video games with synchronized video projected on the big screen.

This multimedia concert brings to life games such as Halo, World of Warcraft, Kingdom Hearts, Metal Gear Solid, Final Fantasy, Castlevania, Skyrim and so many more!.

For more information: Video Games in Concert on Facebook

March 19 - March 22

‘THE SECRET GARDEN’

Susquehanna University

Susquehanna University’s Department of Theatre will present “The Secret Garden,” a musical based off the children’s book of the same name. The story follows Mary, a recently orphaned girl who is sent to live with her uncle. At her new home, she discovers new things about life and friendship through a hidden garden.

For more information: Susqu.edu/boxoffice

March 28

WINE ’N SHINE PIEROGI PALOOZA

Bloomsburg Fairgrounds, 620 W. 3rd St., Bloomsburg Sample wines and snack on the iconic Polish food at the Wine ’n Shine Pierogi Palooza from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be prize drawings, plenty of pierogi and wine vendors set up, plus a DJ and Polka Dance-Off/Karoke. Tickets prices vary if purchasing in advance, but all tickets at the door are $30 and children younger than 15 enter for free.

For more information: Wine ’n Shine Pierogi Palooza on Facebook

April 7

BREAD AND PUPPET THEATRE

Art Academy of Milton, 38 S. Front St., Milton Bread and Puppet Theater will present a brand new piece written by director Peter Schumann. The performance will feature puppets of all sizes, music and commentary on current politics. After the show, the company will serve sourdough rye bread with aioli and have copies of its “Cheap Art” for sale.

For more information: Artacademyofmilton.com

April 9

CIRCA: HUMANS 2.0

Weis Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Dent Drive, Lewisburg

Circa, a contemporary cirque, will perform its Humans 2.0 program. The show is described as a reflection of our times as the work becomes more intimate, internal and searching Using next level acrobatics to parallel next level humanity, Circa argues humanity must evolve toward heightened connection, care and sensitivity.

For more information: Bucknell.edu/BoxOffice.

April 11

15TH ANNUAL FUNDRAISING GALA

Rusty Rail Brewing Company, 101 N. 8th St., Mifflinburg

Camp Koala will host a fundraiser to support children’s grief programming.This includes ongoing grief support groups, expanded day camps, monthly mini-camps, comfort bags and crisis teams. Tickets are required for this event. Featuring a silent auction from local businesses, raffles, Hollywood photo area, wine pull, live auction with auctioneer Lori Hess-Lauver, live band, emcee and plenty of fun. Everything is included in the ticket, suggested donation. Reserve a full table for 10 to guarantee a seat. A limited number of VIP tables are available, and include event sponsorship for you or your business.

For more information: Visit campkoala.org

April 11

GELNETT BOOK FESTIVAL

2 N. Market St., Selinsgrove

Hang out with local authors, chat with fellow readers, and make some memories from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information: Selinsgrove Gelnett Book Festival’s Facebook page.

April 18

REVENGE OF THE PUNK ROCK FLEA MARKET

Art Academy of Milton, 38 S. Front St., Milton

This free event will feature vendors selling clothing, jewelry, toys, vinyl, coffee and more from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Parking is available across the street behind the bank.

For more information: Artacademyofmilton.com

April 25

LEWISBURG ARTS FESTIVAL

Downtown Lewisburg

More than 100 artists and artisanal food booths will be set up at the annual Lewisburg Arts Festival from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Between browsing, guests can enjoy live entertainment and children’s hands-on activities. Whether you enjoy fine arts, folk arts, contemporary art or classical art, there will be plenty to see at the Lewisburg Arts Festival.

For more information: The Lewisburg Arts Council’s Facebook page.

May 2

SPRING FLING

Mill Street, Danville

Enjoy a day of live music, good food and local business at the 40th annual Spring Fling in Danville. The festival also showcases nonprofit organizations, reflecting the community’s giving spirit by raising awareness and funds for various causes. Guests of all ages can find something to do this community celebration.

For more information: The Danville Business Alliance’s Facebook page.

May 9

BEEF AND BREW BLOCK PARTY

Cameron Park, Sunbury

Sunbury’s Revitalization, Inc. is bringing back its Beef and Brew Block Party. Enjoy live music and beverages from Eclipse Craft Brewing Co., Midtown Bistro and Iron Vines Winery or snack on a delicious meal from Southern BBQ. There will also be a corn hole tournament and cow pie bingo, and kids activities set up for the youngsters to enjoy.

For more information: Sunbury’s Revitalization Inc. on Facebook.

May 9

WINE SHINE TACO PALOOZA

Bloomsburg Fairgrounds, Bloomsburg

Enjoy mini tacos and wine samplings at Wine Shine Taco Palooza from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets at the door cost $30.

For more information: Wine Shine Taco Palooza on Facebook.

May 16-17

CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA FIBER FESTIVAL

1 E. Park St., Hughesville

The Central Pennsylvania Fiber Festival will be held at the Lycoming County Fairgrounds. Free admission and parking. The event will feature spinning and weaving demos, a herding dog demo, hand-dyed artisanal yarns, homemade wooden fiber tools and more.

For more information: Central Pennsylvania Fiber Festival on Facebook.

May 16

MILTON PA WINTERFEST CAR SHOW

St. Joseph Parish Center, 854 Cemetery Road, Milton

Enjoy food and craft vendors and raffle items during the Milton PA Winterfest annual fundraiser from 8 a.m. to noon. Cars, trucks and motorcycles are welcome. Check-in is at 7:45 a.m. and awards will be held at 11:45 a.m. To pre-register or for more information, email Miltonpawinterfestcommittee@gmail.com.

For more information: Email Miltonpawinterfestcommittee@gmail.com

May 16

UNCORK THE PAST WINE FESTIVAL

Warrior Run Church, 41 Warrior Run Lane, Watsontown

Join the Warrior Run-Fort Freeland Society in the church grove to sample wines, beers and distilled products from more than a dozen vendors from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy shopping at a diverse group of craft vendors and eating great food from several food trucks. Bring a chair to sit, relax and sip while listening to live music.

For more information: freelandfarm.org/wine-festival.

May 24

ANNUAL SPRING CAR SHOW

Montour-DeLong Fairgrounds, 5848 Broadway, Danville

Get ready for a day of horsepower, high shine and family fun at the Annual Spring Car Show hosted by the Montour DeLong Fair starting at noon. Cost to enter a judged vehicle is $5 the day of the event. No pre-registration is required. General admission to the event is free.

For more information: Annual Spring Car Show on Facebook

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