Original article appeared in The Progress News on 14 May 2026

In the photograph, from left, are Penny Pifer, field representative from state Sen. Chris Dush’s office; Holly Komonczi, executive director of Lumber Heritage Region, holding the citation; and Matt Wise, district director from state Sen. Gene Yaw’s office.

The Lumber Heritage Region (LHR) celebrated 25 years of impact, partnership, and community development at its annual dinner, drawing 71 attendees from across Pennsylvania and as far as New York.

The event brought together board members, partners, and a selective group of local, regional, and state leaders. Ten guests also participated in a forest bathing experience at The View, 970 Six Mile Rd., Philipsburg, prior to the evening program, reflecting LHR’s growing focus on outdoor recreation and wellness.

Cindy Adams Dunn, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, served as the guest speaker. Presentations were given by Bob Imhoff, Steve Manginell, and Holly Komonczi.

“The Lumber Heritage Region has always been about people,” said Komonczi, Executive Director. “There were people representing all 25 years and 13 of the 15 counties in attendance. This celebration brought everyone together to share experiences and plan for the future of the region.”

One of Pennsylvania’s 12 designated heritage areas — and the 11th established — LHR serves a 15-county region and has grown to include 281 partners. Its impact includes reaching more than 5,000 students annually, leveraging over $1 million in community mini-grants, and benefiting from more than $4 million in DCNR investment.

The organization continues to support heritage tourism, education, and outdoor recreation through initiatives such as the Lumber Heritage Trail and regional storytelling projects.

Awards presented during the evening included:

  • Founder’s Award: Bob Imhoff (Elk County)
  • Legacy Award: Linda Devlin (McKean County)
  • Community Champion Award: Rich Wycoff (Clinton County)
  • Budding Partnership Award: Jennifer and Chris McCracken, Pine Creek Seed Company (Lycoming County)

The Lumber Heritage Region also received a citation from Senators Dush, Hutchinson, Langerholc, Pittman, and Yaw, recognizing the organization as “a leader in the community and a model worthy of emulation.”

Pennsylvania Heritage Areas Program

Meet Your Pennsylvania Heritage Areas Program!
4 September 2013