“After volunteering with the Johnsonburg Community Trust at a number of fundraising events I was happy to accept a position on the board of directors.

Spending much of my childhood in Johnsonburg helped to form me into the person that I am today and I am grateful that I can give something back to the community. I love learning about local history, and being able to preserve Johnsonburg’s history is something that is very important to me.

I am a firm believer in taking care of one’s community, which also extends to my work as a funeral director at the Ubel Funeral Home. When I’m not working or helping the trust I can usually be found camping in the beautiful Pennsylvania Wilds or tending to my garden.

It is wonderful to see such a dedicated group of people come together for the betterment of a great community like Johnsonburg, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it.”
—Zachary Feidler

“My connection to the northern Pennsylvania region is deeply personal, rooted in my childhood spent in the Appalachian Mountains. As a "nurse and coal-miner's daughter," I learned to appreciate the resilient spirit of the local community. I spent my youth exploring the natural landscape, roaming through the woods and along the "cricks," Even as a child, I was aware of the environmental challenges facing the area, noting that some of the waterways were "blaze orange" from iron mine drainage, a common issue in former mining regions.

My passion for the outdoors led me to pursue a professional career in conservation. I earned a Bachelor of Science in wildlife and fisheries resources from West Virginia University, and for over two decades, worked with nonprofit conservation organizations. My professional focus has been on improving streams, restoring wildlife habitat, and increasing recreational access to these natural areas.

In 2010, My husband and I, Mike, chose to settle in Johnsonburg, drawn by our love for the Clarion River. We have since raised their three children here, creating new family memories on the river and exploring the vast public lands that make up the PA Wilds. This personal experience fueled our dream of opening an outdoor outfitter business in town, with a goal of helping other families and visitors experience the beauty of the upper Clarion River and East Branch Clarion areas.

In the summer of 2025, that dream began to take shape as we partnered with the Johnsonburg Community Trust (JCT). The JCT is a non-profit organization dedicated to revitalizing the borough of Johnsonburg. They are known for their hands-on approach to community service, particularly through their volunteer group, the Tuesday Crew, which is made up of dedicated local residents, including many retired teachers.

Witnessing the unwavering "community barn-raising spirit" of the Tuesday Crew inspired me to do more than just build my business. I was so moved by the JCT's mission and the volunteer's dedication that she decided to join their board of directors in July 2025.

As a new board member, her primary focus is on fundraising and utilizing her professional experience to support the JCT's larger revitalization projects. A key initiative is the renovation of the historic Armstrong Brick Block, a significant downtown landmark. The JCT's goal is to transform this historic structure into a vibrant hub of diverse businesses and community spaces.

I am committed to helping the JCT in their mission to revitalize Johnsonburg as a welcoming, family-friendly, and thriving community that celebrates its unique character and culture.”
--Kylie Maland

“As a fifth-generation resident, my commitment to the town's well-being is evident in my extensive involvement with the Johnsonburg Community Trust.

One of the many things I am proud of is the establishment of the Heritage-Education & Welcome Center (HEWC), Now serving as coordinator and curator, my passion for preserving and promoting Johnsonburg's heritage is evident in the work coming out of the HEWC, Helping to educate residents and visitors about the town's rich history, as well as, the region’s is very important to me.

I also find great joy working in my studio. You can find my pieces both retail and wholesale. The inspiration is heavily influenced by the natural beauty of the surrounding Pennsylvania Wilds region. Each piece reflects my "Rural Organic Style," a testament to the deep connection I feel to the area's roots and traditions.

My dedication to Johnsonburg and the region extends beyond preserving its past; I am equally committed to shaping its future. I firmly believe in the power of community collaboration and envision a region that continues to thrive and grow while retaining its unique character and charm.
—president, Stephanie Distler

 “This is my fifth year serving as a director of the Johnsonburg Community Trust. My involvement in historic restoration and community revitalization projects within Elk County began several years ago when I made the decision to return to my hometown. The wealth of experience I've gained during this time has solidified my belief in the Borough of Johnsonburg's potential.

I firmly believe that Johnsonburg possesses numerous assets that can play a pivotal role in helping our region overcome the challenges it currently faces. As a fifth-generation resident of Elk County, I take immense pride in my deep-rooted connection to this area. My personal investment in the community extends beyond mere residency; as a local business owner, I have a vested interest in fostering regional growth while simultaneously preserving the unique character of our local communities.

The preservation of our local heritage and the pursuit of sustainable growth are not mutually exclusive goals; rather, they are complementary aspects of a holistic approach to community development. I am committed to working collaboratively with fellow Trust directors and community stakeholders to leverage Johnsonburg's strengths and ensure a prosperous future for all who call this region home.” —Andrew Mohney

“This is my fourth year serving as a director on the Johnsonburg Community Trust (JCT), and it also marks my first term as the Mayor of Johnsonburg. I consider it a privilege to serve our community in these dual roles and am dedicated to making Johnsonburg the best it can be.

I believe strongly in community engagement and you can often find me at local events, meeting with residents, listening to their concerns, and sharing in the joys of our town's vibrant life. I'm also a proud volunteer firefighter with the Johnsonburg Fire Department, where I work alongside my fellow residents to keep our community safe.

I have always been fascinated by our local history and am passionate about preserving Johnsonburg's rich heritage. I'm excited to be part of the revitalization projects happening throughout the borough, and I'm committed to working with the JCT and other community partners to build a bright future for Johnsonburg while honoring its past.”
—Mayor of Johnsonburg, Kyle Paget