Good News in Greene

Commisioners Recognize Local Farmer for State Award

During their regular meeting on Feb. 21, Greene County Commissioners presented Jim Cowell of Waynesburg with a Certificate of Appreciation for his impressive contributions to agriculture and conservation in Greene County, and for recently winning a prestigious award by the state.

Cowell, owner and proprietor of Frosty Springs Farm in Waynesburg, has dedicated much of his life to serve as a proud steward of Greene County’s agriculture and environment.

He has served or is currently serving on various boards, including as Chairman for the Greene County Conservation District and currently as President of the Pennsylvania Cattlemen’s Association and as an active member of the Pennsylvania Simmental Association and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and a lifetime member of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.

He has also earned numerous awards for his involvement in many activities and events throughout the years, including: Outstanding Conservation Farm by the Greene County Conservation District, Honorary Chapter Member of Waynesburg and West Greene FFA, Environmental Stewardship Award and Special Recognition Award by Pennsylvania Cattlemen’s Association and PACD Clean Water Award.

Last year, he was nominated by the Pennsylvania Cattlemen’s Association to receive the Pennsylvania State Council of Farm Organizations’ first-ever Dedication to Agriculture Award for his impressive efforts and dedication. On Feb. 5, he was honored with this prestigious award during a ceremony in Harrisburg.

He routinely hosts farm events and has hosted numerous field days, works with the local 4-H and Future Farmers of America chapters and works closely with Waynesburg University to host classes each year and works on projects with graduate students.

He has also logged countless hours in program development in rural Greene County and throughout the state of Pennsylvania as a volunteer for various agricultural and conservation initiatives.

The Commissioners’ Certificate of Appreciation was accepted by Cowell, who was joined by Lisa Snider, Conservation District manager.

Commissioner Blair Zimmerman said the Board of Commissioners “recognize Mr. Cowell for his admirable contributions to agriculture and conservation in Greene County, and congratulate him for receiving the recent impressive honor of being selected as the winner of the first-ever Pennsylvania Council of Farm Organizations’ Dedication to Agriculture Award.”

While accepting the Certificate of Appreciation, Cowell humbly thanked the Commissioners and stated that “while it’s nice to win an award, I have to say that I had a lot of help,” giving credit to the Conservation District, who, according to Cowell, “does one heck of a job.”

“It’s not about one person, it’s about a group of dedicated people working together,” he said.

He said he is very proud of being able to open his farm to the public, in hopes that those who visit will become more educated and informed about agriculture and conservation.

Pictured L-R: Commissioner Dave Coder; Lisa Snider, Greene County Conservation District manager; Commissioner Archie Trader; James Cowell; and Commissioner Blair Zimmerman

Jefferson Morgan Win at Science Olympiad

Mrs. Karen Cox, Mrs. Stacie Kniha, and the Jefferson-Morgan Science Olympiad team competed at the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Science Olympiad, hosted by California University on March 6. Middle school and high school students had the opportunity to compete in earth science, biology, physics, chemistry, computer science and math. Congratulations to JM students Brittany Nelson & Bria Jamison who placed first in their Mouse Trap Vehicle.

Franklin Township Looking for Input Into Their Comprehensive Plan

The Franklin Township Supervisors have announced the first public meeting of their Comprehensive Plan Update process. This open house meeting will take place on Wednesday, April 10, 2019 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at the Franklin Township Municipal Building located at 568 Rolling Meadows Road, Waynesburg, PA 15370. Anyone wishing to attend the meeting will be given the opportunity to provide input on various items, discuss ideas for the Township, and ask questions about the planning process in a relaxed forum.

The Township’s Comprehensive Plan will be a guide for future growth and development in the municipality. It will assist Township officials in creating a long-term vision that is supported by the residents and business community as well as providing the basis for updating land use policies, regulations, and ordinances.

The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) recommends that municipalities update their comprehensive plans every ten years.

The plan will address the issues that are most important to Franklin Township along with elements identified in the MPC including land use, public and private infrastructure, transportation, housing, environmental / natural / cultural resources, recreation, historic preservation, and community facilities and services.

It is the intent of planning process to be open, inclusive and transparent. The results of this process will identify and implement the priority goals and strategies to enhance the quality of life in Franklin Township and promote it as a desirable place to work, live, and play. The Township Supervisors are hoping that the public comes out to this meeting to provide their thoughts to help shape the future of the municipality.

Additional information can be provided by contacting Steven Coss, Zoning / Codes Enforcement Officer for Franklin Township at 724-627- 5473.

Vietnam Veterans Day Commemoration

Waynesburg VFW Post #4793 invites veterans, military personnel, respective families, fellow citizens and those who served alongside our troops from throughout the world to attend a special vent held on Friday, March 29. The program will start at 6pm, with a social following the program at 7pm. Food and refreshments will be provided. In addition to the presentation, Vietnam Traveling Wall photos will be on display.

March 29th is a very special date for Vietnam veterans and the nation. It is the day in 1973 when the last American combat troops were withdrawn from Vietnam. With the support of Congress in 1974, the first Vietnam Veterans Day was proclaimed by Presidential order. It was proclaimed again 2012 by Presidential order. It is important that those who served with honor, dignity, and valor during the Vietnam War era and thier families can finally experience the nation’s and citizens’ gratitude and respect for a job well done.