Community Heart & Soul Meet-up Last Week at the Heritage-Education & Welcome Center

The Johnsonburg Community Trust's new headquarters is in the recently completed Heritage-Education & Welcome Center! Nestled in the historic Brick Block at the intersection of Bridge and Market Streets, this expansive 45,000 sq ft facility serves as a dynamic hub for a multitude of purposes.

Primarily, the center houses the Trust's offices and operations, providing a centralized location for the organization's activities. Additionally, the space functions as an incubator site for non-profit organizations, offering support and resources to help them grow and thrive. Recognizing the importance of tourism, the center also includes a welcome center to greet and assist visitors to the area. Furthermore, a retail shop showcasing regional products is on site, providing a platform for local businesses and artisans to display and sell their goods.

The Heritage-Education & Welcome Center is not only a space for commerce and support; it's also a celebration of Johnsonburg's rich history and culture. The center features captivating historical displays that chronicle the town's past, and hosts a variety of educational activities designed to engage and enlighten visitors of all ages.

To further promote and preserve Johnsonburg's heritage, the center hosts a series of heritage-themed markets, festivals, and displays. These events showcase the region's diverse visual arts, traditional crafts, and local cuisine. Educational activities and live performances are also featured, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching experience for all attendees. These events aim to entertain and educate the community while fostering a deeper appreciation for Johnsonburg's historical and living cultural heritage. Both the interior and exterior spaces of the center will be and are utilized to host these vibrant and engaging events and activities, ensuring maximum accessibility and community participation.

Last Tuesday, the Center was proud to host the 3rd meet-up of the Community Heart & Soul initiative, bringing together passionate participants from both boroughs, coordinator Emma, and a wonderfully experienced coach, Alice. This collaborative process embodies the core mission of the Trust, as it provides a platform for community members to actively engage in shaping the future of their region.

The atmosphere was abuzz with energy and enthusiasm as attendees gathered around the center's tables, sharing ideas and envisioning the myriad possibilities that lie ahead for this remarkable area. The discussions were rich and diverse, reflecting the unique perspectives and aspirations of the participants. The meet-up served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community engagement and the transformative potential of collective action.

"What is Community Heart & Soul?

Community Heart & Soul is a resident-driven process that engages the entire population of a town in identifying what they love most about their community, what future they want for it, and how to achieve it.

Developed and field-tested over a decade in partnership with over 120 small cities and towns across America, Community Heart & Soul is a proven process for engaging a community in shaping its future.".  ---from their website

A great gathering of participants all came together for the 3rd meet-up on February 4th in the HEWC, 569 Market Street, Johnsonburg for CH&S!

 The attendees actively participated in a brainstorming session, sharing a wide range of ideas and suggestions. Coach Alice L. Trowbridge expertly facilitated the discussion, carefully noting and organizing the contributions for future action and reference.

We are in the Getting Started phase which is designed to give you the opportunity to explore the Heart & Soul journey and identify potential areas of support and challenge as you embark on this process. This initial phase will help you lay the groundwork for a successful experience as you move forward. Phase 1 of the program is expected to commence either in late March or early April, allowing for adequate preparation and exploration during the Getting Started phase.

Coming together over pizza, connections and community

Our next meeting will be February 25, 2025 from 4:30 – 6:00pm at the Ridgway Senior Junction, 321 West Main Street, Ridgway.  At this next gathering we will be brainstorming what resources will be needed for CH&S (both human and financial resources)

All are welcome to participate, but please email Emma (emma.coppolo@ridgwayborough.com) so we can plan for adequate seating.

I truly appreciate you taking the time with me today and learning about the exciting events and hidden gems we have here in the PA Wilds! It's always a pleasure to share my passion for this beautiful region with others.

As the sun sets and a winter weather advisory settles in, it's time to retreat to the warmth and comfort of home. The inviting aroma of roasted sweet potatoes, pan-fried pork chops, and a crisp green salad is the perfect way to spend this winter night.

Right before the snow started my husband and I stopped at the HEWC to drop off a package and grab the mail. Jessica from Kay & Rose Bakery Co. next door, invited me in to take a look at the delicious spread her and her staff had prepared for the dance attendees as they stopped in. They were calling it "Snowball Sweets," and it was quite a sight! There were charcuterie offerings cookies, pastries and a chocolate fountain - all sorts of treats decorated in a wintery theme. It all looked so tempting, and I'm sure it was a hit with the students tonight.

Take this opportunity to enjoy the simple pleasures of the season, whether it's curling up with a good book, sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace, or spending quality time with loved ones. Let's cherish these winter days and the joy they bring. Stay cozy, everyone! I am off to finish preparing supper.



Enjoy and take care out there!


-Stephanie

www.johnsonburgcommunitytrust.org

  

Stephanie Distler, a dedicated community leader and artisan, is deeply rooted in Johnsonburg. As a fifth-generation resident, her commitment to the town's well-being is evident in her extensive involvement with the Johnsonburg Community Trust.

Distler is currently serving as vice president of the Johnsonburg Community Trust, a role she has held previously, in addition to serving as president for three years. Her leadership within the Trust has been instrumental in numerous community initiatives. Notably, she was a key volunteer in the establishment of the Heritage Education & Welcome Center (HEWC), where she now serves as coordinator and curator. Her passion for preserving and promoting Johnsonburg's heritage is evident in her work at the HEWC, where she helps to educate residents and visitors about the town's rich history, as well as, the region’s.

Beyond her community leadership, Distler is an artisan. She owns Stephanie Distler Studios, where she creates artisan jewelry, fiber art, leather carvings, and mixed media art. Her work, which she sells both retail and wholesale, is heavily influenced by the natural beauty of the surrounding Pennsylvania Wilds region. Each piece reflects her "Rural Organic Style," a testament to her deep connection to the area's roots and traditions.

Distler's dedication to Johnsonburg extends beyond preserving its past; she is equally committed to shaping its future. She firmly believes in the power of community collaboration and envisions a Johnsonburg that continues to thrive and grow while retaining its unique character and charm. Her hope is that future generations will continue to call Johnsonburg home, experiencing the same sense of belonging and community that she cherishes..