Although Penns Valley may seem but little to those of us that grew up here, certain aspects of it have truly shaped us to be who we are. There is so much that goes on and we should appreciate it every once in awhile. Once a Ram always a Ram. Even though this little Valley doesn't seem that great and some times we don't think we will escape, it is kind of alright and a lot of us do but come back because of all of these aspects. There is quite a bit to be proud of here in Penns Valley, PA.

1. Burkholder's Country Market

Burkholder's is the saving grace of the whole valley. We come from every part of it for some fresh baked Amish goods (especially the whoopie pies) and the delicious fried chicken on the hot bar. If you want to run into someone you haven't seen for a while, this is your place.

2. The one red light in the whole valley

Every once in awhile we run into people asking for directions through Penns Valley. Most of the time we can use the Millheim stop light as a distinct landmark because it's the only light in the whole valley, unless you're at the very edge in Centre Hall.

3. Hunting is part of our "holiday breaks"

Our schools have realized that if they don't give their students the first two days of hunting season off, half the student body won't show up. We get two extra days off after Thanksgiving break just for the start of hunting season. Hunting season is basically a holiday around here anyway.

4. Camp Woodward

There is nothing like having a World famous action camp in your town and thinking nothing of it. Woodward is famous for this camp that is one week long and brings in people from around the world. "Camp Woodward" is something that we can talk about casually to new people and they freak out, but we think nothing of it. Honestly, some times I forget it's around.

5. Penns View

If you're really looking to impress someone with the true beauty of Penns Valley, take them to Penns View. This is the one spot we can all agree on that is the most beautiful. It's up in the middle of nowhere and that makes it even better to just soak up the surroundings or catch up with friends. It's also not a long drive from Poe Valley if you want to swim!

6. Pot Pie

Here in Penns Valley and Centre County in general appreciate all the doughy goodness that is Pennsylvania Dutch Pot Pie. This is pot pie not in "pie" form but with noodles in it and I can guarantee you it is much better than any pie I've ever had. I've had many arguments with people just because it's not a "pie," but we don't care here because this is what we believe in and it's damn delicious.

7. Trucks vs. Cars vs. Tractors vs. Buggies

If you're ever driving through the valley you've probably encountered one of these: A car driving way to fast passing everyone, even in no passing zones because he thinks he's a race car driver. A large truck tailgating you for no apparent reason, or you are stuck between them and can't see a thing. A tractor or an Amish Buggy that is holding up a whole line of traffic, the bonus to the Buggy is there are usually cute Amish children waving at you from the back.

8. Penns Cave

We have a wildlife park in the middle of Penns Valley. It seems to attract quite a few people, for a price of course. Most people come for the boat ride through the caves which is actually pretty nice. But most of us that live here realize we can see most of our wildlife for free walking around.

9. We know everyone

When we hit 5th grade in Penns Valley we were all brought together and were forced to get to know each other before we hit the high school in 7th grade. Penns Valley is so small that you know everyone, you've either been on a team with them, met them at Burkholder's, know their 5th cousin, the possibilities are endless. I know too many people to even count just from living here, and everyone knows your business, even after high school.

10. The Great Grange Fair

The Grange Fair started in 1874 and over the past 142 years it has grown into something spectacular. It is a "great" big encampment fair that includes 1,000 tents, 1,500 RV's, hundreds of concessions, over 7,000 exhibit items, livestock, rides and so much more! This fair takes place in the heart of Centre Hall, PA every year at the end of August. It brings families together for a week or more of fun and usually lots of heat. I've met people from so many different states here and I think it really shows that a little town can have a big impact.