Artist of the Month

Nittany Valley Symphony Celebrates Diamond Anniversary By Hannah Pollock When her son began learning how to play the violin, Avis Jones remembered the viola she played in high school. She enjoyed playing the instrument, although only for a year. “My husband surprised me with viola lessons,” Jones says. In her mid-30s, she took lessons —…

A winding journey led Chaplin to a career where craftsmanship, community, and music come together Over the years, State College has grown into an artist’s playground, bringing some of the world’s best musicians to Happy Valley. This global inspiration keeps the growth of Centre County’s music scene consistent, and it helps keep business steady for…

Through painting, improv, and teaching, Jackie Gianico champions everyday creativity By Karen Dabney Jackie Gianico believes everyone can be creative. In her “Cheers to Art” sip-and-paint classes at The Arena Bar and Grill, she breaks the painting process down into doable steps and helps people move past any anxiety they have, so they can complete…

Permanent jewelry has been a work of art for centuries, seen in traditional neck rings and newly popular tooth gems. Recently, permanent jewelry has had a bit of a resurgence, naturally amping up sales for local business, Linked Permanent Jewelry. Penn State alumna Emily Beals co-founded Linked Permanent Jewelry in the summer of 2022. Four years…

Shape-note singing draws new voices into a powerful shared experience The 200-year-old Early American tradition of shape-note singing is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Singers of all abilities can try this unique folk art at the free, twice-monthly State College Sacred Harp singings held at University Mennonite Church. While the songs have Christian lyrics, everyone…

State College’s contra dance scene is back, welcoming beginners, families and musicians Contra dance is experiencing a rebirth in State College. This traditional, easy-to-learn form of American country dance is drawing 40 to 60 people per event, dancing to a caller and live music in the State College Friends School’s community room. “If you can…

From Celtic tunes to singer-songwriters, a beloved concert series blends artistry, intimacy, and community For 34 years, the Acoustic Brew Concert Series has delighted music lovers with affordable performances by local, national, and international folk and acoustic musicians in an intimate concert space. “We try to have a mix each year,” says Holly Foy, the…

For many folks, thoughts of Happy Valley conjure up images of university life at Penn State. For visiting illustrator Melissa Smith, Happy Valley is more than just the university; it’s a place filled with large mountains, rolling farms, and family memories that make Centre County feel like home. Smith, a self-made illustrator of beloved places,…

Todd Hawbaker’s passion for journaling led to an unexpected hobby — pen making — that has grown into a successful part-time business, Ink & Timber Pens. Nothing in his background predicted his new vocation. Born and raised in State College, he majored in philosophy at Penn State, worked for his father in property management, and…