June 2019 GreeneScene

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GreeneScene Magazine •

JUNE

2019

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T

I Love this P l a ce

he road to Alicia is marked by a small, off-kilter road sign on Rt. 88 along the straightaway through Cabbage Flats, near where the flashing light marking the intersection between Greensboro and Mapletown is about to come into view. I had to backtrack twice to find it the first time I went wandering into this bit of coal mining history that is still alive in the name Alicia. Three years ago I was on my way to meet Rodney Grimes who drove the coal train from the mine that CONTURA now owns in Kirby, to its Alicia Harbor on the Monongahela River.

I was there to photograph the train for the 2016 50s Fest T-shirt design celebrating the region’s coal heritage along with its love of old cars. Rodney told me when he would arrive at the harbor and what a great shot it was!

Rodney blew the horn, we waved and I hurried home to start drawing. He told me if I followed Alicia Road down to the river I would find a town with the same name, sandwiched between Alicia Harbor and the remains of the old Robena Mine harbor. But I didn’t go looking for it that day.

I’m guessing W. Harry Brown had a wife or daughter in mind when he named his Fayette County Coke works Alicia. According to historian G. Wayne Smith, Brown came to Greene County in 1912 to “build a tipple in Grays Landing” and named the mine Alicia 2. The entrance would have gone straight into the exposed coal seam on the river bank like other mines of the day, a precursor of the boom to follow as investors formed companies and bought up individual operators like Brown. By the time World War I drove up the price of coal, Pittsburgh Steel owned Alicia 2.

At some point a cluster of houses sprang up in

what used to be a cornfield but these were the early days and Alicia was not a big patch town like Crucible and Nemacolin. Men and boys walked to work from home back then, or pitched tents, built rude shelters, slept in idle coke ovens or boarded with local families. A look at the two streets of small bungalows in Alicia, each the same as the next, suggests that Pittsburgh Steel built some homes to rent to their workers when it purchased the mine and tipple back in the ‘teens.

So what was life like in a small mining town on the banks of the Mon, sandwiched between two harbors? I took another drive this month to find out.

Alicia Road makes a beeline across broad overgrown fields crisscrossed with chain link fences, cattle gates and abandoned roads. Kovach Road starts on Rt. 88 and connects with Alicia Road about a mile in, where long lines of neatly parked tractors and equipment in the field pay tribute to the machines that made the 20th century happen. Kovach Road ends there, but continues as a dotted line on Greene County maps. This is old Rt. 88 and it once had a covered bridge across Whitley Creek and came out between Sugar Grove Baptist Church and the intersection of Rt. 21.

As the road begins to drop down, it slips under the railroad trestle that swings into Alicia Harbor on the right and the houses of Alicia emerge from the greenery.

All the bustle of the 21st century fades away as I drive the few streets that meander in a loop of lawns, swing sets, swimming pools and houses. Some of these streets once went further, but time has turned them into driveways and dead ends. There are some remodeled homes handsomely situated by the river, along with those neat rows of bungalows and a scattering of two

Jerry Matthews and Beverly Pincavitch point to the remains of the Robena harbor.

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ALICIA, PA

by Colleen Nelson

story houses with big chimneys from the coal burning days. It’s late afternoon and kids are riding bikes on streets where traffic is mostly ducks taking a stroll and parents coming home from work. Water Street tucks into the edge of the riverbank and the muddy Mon flows just a few hundred yards below. A boat dock beckons and you can just see the big steel pilings of Robena Harbor peeking through the trees. Then the street ends in a parade of plastic flamingos and a trio of barking dogs lets Mike Pincavitch know a stranger is here to ask him if this is his driveway or an alley to the next street up? It’s both!

Meeting Mike in his garage doing custom work on a truck, with a smartphone full of photos of the designer cars he’s worked on is my gateway to meeting his equally friendly and energetic mom Beverly. We sit on her deck at the other end of Water Street and she tells me she lived in a log cabin down by that covered bridge until she was three years old and the family left here to find work.

Her father Tom Medunick was out of work at Crucible Mine in 1948 when “we moved to Philadelphia.

Dad had a brother there.” She remembers summer visits to Alicia to visit family. “Compared to Philly there was nothing to do! There were no streetlights and everybody went to bed early. I remember we caught fireflies before it got dark.”

Other things she remembers are long gone, like the Mansion House at the edge of town that was a boarding house for workers. “My great grandmother Osceola Temple Tenant was a cook there. I loved her mincemeat pies!”

Beverly, husband Frank and their four sons re-

Tractors dot the field along Kovach Road.

GreeneScene Magazine •

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2019

turned to Alicia in 1980 to care for her father. The Election Day flood of 1985 that brought water to the second floor of the houses on Water Street is still a vivid memory.

“Up to there!” she tells me, pointing to one wall from our seat on the deck. “We had to redo everything.”

When I stopped by again on Mothers Day, we sat at Beverly’s kitchen table and swapped stories with cousin Jerry Michael, the family historian who traces their maternal side to George Kiger, who came to Greene County in 1801 and cleared two farms near Kirby. Jerry was born in 1952 and remembers his neighbors and the way life was lived back then. “Swimming the river was a rite of passage for boys,” he tells me. “People would ask ‘have you swam the river yet?’ and you might say ‘Not yet. Maybe next year!” And then there were times when the water looked like orange juice from the sulfur and acid from the mines. “It dried poison ivy right up!”

Before the mines came, Alicia was fertile farmland, planted in corn and the owner had the first steam-activated harvester in the county. Jerry doesn’t remember who the owner was but Jerry’s grandfather John and great uncle Bennett Kiger worked the fields. Later, Bennett was the farrier for the Alicia Mine mules that were stabled next door to the Mansion House.

Of course everyone burned coal and house coal was sold door to door by those who dug it from hand mines that popped up wherever coal could be found in seams too small for the big companies to bother with.

Jerry remembers the water treatment plant at the edge of town that pumped river water into three huge redwood tanks to be filtered and then into three smaller ones to be chlorinated before being pumped to a holding tank further up the hill and gravity fed to Alicia.

When Alicia Mine closed “Frick sold the plant to the town for a dollar to make it legal and Uncle Bennett kept it running. He trained the next guy to do it when

he got too old and when a waterline broke everyone got out and fixed it. The DEP inspectors told us we had the best water on the river.”

And the best neighbors, too.

“Alicia was a melting pot - German, Polish, African-American, Serbian, French, Italian – it didn’t matter where you came from, or where you went to church. We grew up around all kinds of people and everybody came together to help each other.”

Jerry remembers half a dozen African-American families including Abe and Mary Glaspie and next-door neighbor Ida Hale and her two-acre garden. The families shared holiday cheer and he became good friends with her grandson Ralph Hale. Jerry left Alicia when he was 18 and he and Ralph worked at Humphrey 7 Mine near Morgantown where Abe Glaspie was a mine foreman.

Now retired, Jerry and his buddy Ralph stay in touch and Beverly is friends with Ralph on Facebook. When Ralph and I finally connected via Facebook, he texted me back: “I do have friends in Greene County because that’s where my heart is.” He remembers long Sunday strolls along the river as a kid - “it was cute watching those old ladies walking with their big sticks to ward off black snakes!” As for Grandmother Ida with her twoacre garden “she was my rock. A very hard working lady. Lived to be a hundred and six years old.”

One last question - were there any stores in Alicia? Beverly and Jerry think about it, shake their heads, then start grinning. Well, Miss Lulu and Mrs. Amos sold penny candy to neighborhood kids from their homes. And if you were an adult they would sell you beer. But no stores - just good neighbors!

A train travels this trestle that crosses the road to Alicia.

JUNE 2019

• GreeneScene Magazine

Coal loading at the harbor near Alicia now used by CONTURA coal.

Frank Craig pointing to the entrance to the Alicia 2 mine.

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G reen e Sce n e of the Pa st

A jumble of brick walls, steel girders, broken windows and remnants of the old tipple that still jut above the river’s edge near Grays Landing reminds us that the Alicia 2 mine harbor was once a busy workplace. SWPA Rural Exploration member Evan Williams II of Carmichaels took this photo in 2013 while documenting the old site for the group’s historic website and Facebook page.

The black and white photograph from the Coal and Coke Heritage Center, Penn State Fayette, Eberly campus, shows what Alicia 2 looked like in 1930 when coal fueled America’s economy even as the Great Depression loomed. At some point during the lean years that followed, Alicia 2 stopped producing, but other mines weathered the storm and got production back when World War II demanded steel for tanks and bullets and shifts were filled for the war effort.

Alicia 2 production records are preserved in G. Wayne Smith’s history of Greene County. Those tonnages are a snapshot of the boom and bust economy cycles that affected the lives of the workers and the communities that grew up around the mines.

When William Henry Brown of Fayette County opened Alicia 2 mine in 1912, its entrance went straight into the Pittsburgh Coal seam that lay exposed on the riverbank near Grays Landing. Dams helped control the river to allow barge traffic from Morgantown to Pittsburgh and the 20th century was full of promise. Alicia 2 went from being a single owner business to a “captive” mine, bought by Pittsburgh Steel to produce coal and coke exclusively for its steel mills in Pittsburgh. World War I was brewing and the need for steel would drive mill owners to secure the mines they needed.

When retired Post Gazette editor and unabashed train buff Pete Zapadka and I rode the coal train as guests of Rodney Grimes in 2017, we had an hour to kill before Rodney was ready to roll, so harbor worker Frank Craig took us on a tour. As his four-wheel drive

truck made its way up a steep stretch of gravel road leading to the tipple he stopped so I could photograph a bit of history. There on the hillside cement pillars rose and were capped with slabs of natural rock. In between was a wall of concrete blocks. It was the entrance of an old mine, sealed for safety but still overlooking the river.

I called Frank for this story and ask him if that old

by Colleen Nelson

entrance is Alicia 2.

That’s what they say, Frank tells me. I’ll take that as a yes!

You can find a link to the You Tube video Pete made of our train ride with Rodney at Greenescene Magazine on Facebook .

If you have an interesting old photo from the area you’d like to share, just send it to: GreeneScene of the Past, 185 Wade Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370. Or email to: info@greenescene.com with GreeneScene Past in subject line. The GreeneScene Community Magazine can even scan your original in just a few minutes if you bring it to our office.

PUZZLE WINNERS!

Congratulations to our winners from last month’s puzzle contest. The correct answer was sheep. Each winner won a prize pack to the pool.

Offering outpatient physical and occupational therapy programs in orthopedics, sports medicine and hand therapy.

Hunter Agee of Waynesburg 6

Chrysan Smith of Carmichaels GreeneScene Magazine •

JUNE

2019

JUNE 2019

• GreeneScene Magazine

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by Colleen Nelson

S

ugar Grove Baptist Church on State Rd. 88 can trace its roots back to 1868 and beyond, to the frontier days when Sunday services were held in a shady grove - weather permitting - or in the cabins of neighbors when it did not. But whatever the weather, when a convert was taken into the spirit and was accepted into the fold, the immersion happened in a nearby creek or pond even if a hole had to be chopped in the ice!

Baptists, many of them hardy Welsh and Scots Irish immigrants, began moving to the frontier from Delaware, Virginia and Eastern Pennsylvania in the mid-1700s. They were heading west to escape religious persecution from the Church of England and surprisingly enough, from the Puritans of the New England colonies who were intolerant of their spiritual practices. When the Rev. John Corbly was driven from Virginia by the authorities of the Crown for the fiery power of his redemptive preaching, he began building congregations on the frontier that would in time become West Virginia and Western Pennsylvania. When Corbly finally established a Baptist church near Garards Fort on Whitely Creek and one on Muddy Creek near Jefferson in 1771, he called them Goshen. Corbly’s family settled by Garards Fort and church history tells us that in the days before and after the American Revolution, Greensboro Baptists travelled two hours by horseback to the fort to hear Corbly preach.

In the early 1800s, Robert Jones, grandson of David Jones, the firebrand Welsh Baptist minister who was a gun toting, medically trained chaplain in Washington’s Continental army, started bible studies in Greensboro in local homes. By the 1830s a lot was purchased on Water Street and local farmer Reverend Francis Downey helped form this new church with nine founding members. Amazingly enough, two years later the church was doing missionary work in Burma, a testimony to its desire to spread the Good Word.

Scattered Baptist families who gathered to worship and be baptized in the creek beside a grove of sugar maple trees a few miles north were considered, an outpost of the Greensboro congregation. They “appealed to be granted the rights to their own church in 1868” and the wooden sanctuary they built had two doors, one for men and one for women. If you drive by their church on State Route 88 today you’ll see that a porch has been added, along with a big glass front door for all to enter.

I stopped by for services on Mothers Day and was greeted by Bill and Wilda Humbert, old friends of mine from Carmichaels Grange. There’s no overhead media screen

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The Congregation of Sugar Grove Baptist Church.

above the pulpit at Sugar Grove – just clear acoustics, beautiful windows and plenty of hymn singing with Irene Bowers on keyboard.

Reverend Frank Vucic of Rices Landing takes New Testament scriptures and brings their message of love to the travails of modern life with the grace of a good teacher – he taught music at Southeastern Greene from 1964-74 and it resonates in the quality of the singing that fills the rafters every Sunday.

Reverend Vucic tells me before services that the church is on land that was once part of the John Hannah farm before the family donated it. He lends me a book from the church library by Frank T. Hoadley about the history of American Baptists in Pennsylvania and Delaware. It is a good read, filled with first hand tidbits of history pulled from early documents, notes and letters written by ministers who lived through the changes that the centuries bring.

I turned to the last chapter “Where do we go from here?” to find some inspiration for us in the 21st century that Frank Hoadley could only dream of when he wrote this in 1986: “The word for love is from the Greek word agape, a love without limits and without thoughts of gaining anything in return..…

This is the essence of the Creator who placed us here. Can we return to that simple yet profound love….Can we cast aside outmoded customs, petty quarrels and moral hairsplitting? Are we willing to be led by God’s own hand?”

Sunday services start at 10 a.m. and the congregation celebrates the holidays with church dinners. It’s been a few years since

Sugar Grove held Sunday School or did activities involving kids but Reverend Vucic wants the neighborhood to know the door is always open.

GreeneScene Magazine •

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2019

GreeneScene by Pauline Cuellar

BOWLBY POETRY CONTEST WINNERS Eva K. Bowlby Public Library celebrated National Poetry Month of April with the live reading of winning poems from its annual poetry contest held the previous month.

The contest is open to the public and wards prizes for original poems in five different age categories. From the 25 original poems that were submitted, judges narrowed it down to

the winners, with each receiving a prize pack.

Payton Duncan, K-2nd grade, won for her original poem, “The Beautiful Butterfly.”

Catherine Thompson’s “Sugar” won in the 9-12th grade category and Harriet Villers won in the adult category with her entry, “Ask the Winds.”

Harland Headlee, adult winner.

Emma Bates, Grade 3-5 winner.

Deborah Westich, Grade 9-12 winner.

Payton Duncan, Grade K - 2nd winner.

Winner: Payton Duncan Category: K-2nd Grade Winners: Emma Bates Category: 3-5 Grade Winners: Deborah Westich and Alex Hughes & Zach Barnhart (co-writers) Category: 9-12 Grade Winner: Harland Headlee Category: Adult

JUNE 2019

• GreeneScene Magazine

Alex Hughes & Zach Barnhart, Grade 9-12 winners.

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S p ort S h or t s

by Zack Zieglar

Four Area Softball Teams Earn Spot in WPIAL Playoffs The WPIAL National office released the pairings for the 2019 Softball playoffs and four Greene County teams will be starting their road to the WPIAL Championships.

Two of the four teams are top five seeds and three come in as top 10 teams in this year’s field of competitors.

Leading the group is the defending WPIAL Class A Champions the West Greene Pioneers sitting as the #1 seed in Class A. They received a first-round bye after finishing the season 16-4 while going 10-0 section 2-1A play and head into the tournament having won nine of their last ten games.

The Jefferson-Morgan Rockets (9-6, 7-3) follow as the #5 seed in Class A and have a first-round match-up with #12 Rochester at Trinity high school and the Mapletown Maples (10-5, 6-4) come in as the #7 seed and will battle #10 Jeanette at Peters Township high school.

In Class 2A Carmichaels (13-5, 8-4) is the lone Greene County representative grabbing the #11 seed as they take on #6 Seton LaSalle at Peters Township. Good Luck to all of our Greene County teams and congrats on your hard work.

Five Teams Span 3 Classes in WPIAL Baseball Playoffs After a long season, Greene County baseball teams are well represented spanning three different classifications as the WPIAL National Office released their pairings for the 2019 Baseball playoffs. With two Class 3A teams, two Class A teams, and one Class 2A team in the field, the road to Wild Things Park for the WPIAL Championship is underway.

In Class 3A, the Waynesburg Red Raiders lead the pack grabbing the #5 seed with a record of 11-5 and 9-3 in Section 3 3A play.

Waynesburg has won six straight games and finished their season with a 6-1 win over

Albert Gallatin. Beth-Center (7-9, 7-5) also snuck in as the #11 seed and have a first-round match-up with #4 seeded New Brighton.

In Class 2A, the Carmichaels Mighty Mikes (15-2, 10-2) serve as the lone Greene County Representative picking up the #2 seed and earning a first-round bye. Carmichaels is looking to get back on track after falling to Brownsville in their season finale.

In Class A, West Greene (11-7, 7-5) leads the way as the #8 seed as they play host to #9 Eden Christian, while Jefferson-Morgan (7-9, 7-5) grabbed the #13 seed and will take on #4 Greensburg Central Catholic.

West Greene Looking for More After Three Straight WPIAL Championships In each of the last three seasons, the end of the WPIAL Playoffs have featured the West Greene Pioneers having their hands raised as Class A Champions. The Pioneers are once again back in the Class A playoffs and hungry for more success powered by a veteran team featuring seven senior players.

The key to this season’s success for head coach Bill Simms and his team was a strong out of conference schedule that saw them take on seven WPIAL Playoff qualifiers. Simms says it was a chance for his girls to see some tough competition and get them ready for what they will experience in the playoffs.

“We want to play a very competitive and tough non-section schedule even if it means a loss,” said Simms. “We play (a tough schedule) to see good pitching and I thought my girls had a good approach. They weren’t afraid

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to go deep in counts against good pitching and when you do that you will get some great at bats.”

West Greene will get a first-round bye week and will await the winner of the #8 Bishop Canevin vs. #9 Greensburg Central Catholic game to see who their first-round opponent will be.

STUDENT ATHLETES OF THE YEAR

F

or the first time in the five-year history of the Greenesports.net Student-Athlete of the Year program, there are two very deserving winners. Considering they are twins who have both put together arguably the most successful athletic careers in recent county history, it wouldn’t have been fair to pick one over the other.

West Greene stars Madison and McKenna Lampe were recently honored as the 2019 Greenesports.net Student-Athletes of the Year following four years of unmatched success over 12 seasons. Both sisters were honored in a ceremony at West Greene High School and presented with a plaque and a pair of $500 scholarships.

“It’s really remarkable what the Lampes have done for not only their respective teams, but the West Greene athletic program as a whole,” said Greenesports.net co-founder, operations manager and announcer Jason Tennant. “We knew from the start they were something special and to reach the heights they have, it was a really easy decision to make these two our athletes of the year.”

The duo has collected a combined 12 letters in cross country, basketball and softball and that is just the start of their milelong list of accomplishments. The Lampes were part of a senior class that has piled up a total of eight section titles (four in softball, three in basketball and one in cross country), three WPIAL softball championships and back-to-back PIAA Class 1-A softball crowns. Their combined efforts also led to the Pioneers becoming the first team from Greene country to run at a PIAA cross country championship meet. The duo also spearheaded back-to-back WPIAL runnerup efforts in basketball and three-straight PIAA tournament qualifications.

All of those wins in the fall and winter campaigns were just the lead-up to what has been three-plus dominant years on the softball diamond. The Pioneers come into the 2019 postseason looking for a fourth-straight trip to the PIAA championship game and are heavy favorites to do so. They are also the overwhelming pick for a fourthstraight district title.“This group of girls has been together for years and accomplished a lot,” said Madison Lampe. “We’re ready for this last playoff run and we are looking forward to it.”

As impressive as the team accomplishments are, Madison and McKenna have accomplished some phenomenal

individual accolades. Both sisters were individual state qualifiers in cross country, are members of the West Greene 1,000-point scorers club and are multi-time all-district picks in basketball and softball. Much like their team honors, their most impressive individual applause has come on the diamond, where they are both three-time all-state picks heading into their senior season. In 2017, they were selected as PASBCA Class A Softball Co-Players of the Year.

“If you look at the Lampes and only knew them in basketball, cross country or softball, that would be enough to be picked as our athletes of the year,” said Greenesports.net co-founder and announcer Lanfer Simpson. “In a day and age when you have so many kids wanting to specialize in one sport, it makes what these two sisters have done in three sports so remarkable. They show what a true athlete is. They’ve lifted up a school and a community and what they and their teammates have done in three-plus years is truly special. It won’t be forgotten for a long time. It’s really special.”

After graduation, both Madison and McKenna will be heading to Pittsburgh to study nursing and compete for the Carlow University softball team. They will also be heavily involved with their United States Army ROTC training and commitments.

Four years of the sort of time management, physical exertion and mental steadiness to balance that sort of schedule would be too much for many individuals. For the two talented and dedicated siblings, it’s just become a way of life.

“The life that we have had forever has always been busy and we’ve always had a busy schedule,” said McKenna Lampe.

“We just want to thank our parents, family, friends, coaches and community who have been with us through the year to get us here.”

(L-R): Jason Tennant (GreeneSports), McKenna Lampe, Madison Lampe, Lanfer Simpson (GreeneSports)

GreeneScene Magazine •

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2019

PSU-Fayette Early Exit from PSUAC Playoffs Dashes USCAA Hopes Entering the 2019 Penn State University Athletic Conference playoffs, Penn State Fayette’s softball team was riding a 14-game winning streak and had high hopes of making the United States Collegiate Athletic Association National Tournament. However, an early exit in the first-round of the PSUAC playoffs dashed those hopes sending the Roaring Lions packing.

Fayette entered the PSUAC tournament as the #2 seed but were upset by PSU-DuBois 3-1 in the first round eliminating them from playoff contention. After falling behind 3-0 early, Chanel Porter picked up an RBI single in the bottom of the seventh, but it wasn’t enough as PSUFayette ended their playoff run.

PSU-Fayette has made the PSUAC playoff tournament in each of the last three seasons and under head coach John Miller have turned into a powerhouse team in the PSUAC West Division. As for the future of the program,

Athletic Director Lou Zedecky says that the team looks to continue to grow and improve as the year goes on.

“I think with the young core of studentathletes we have I feel the program is just going to keep growing,” said Zedecky. “We had three girls leave the program one was a 2+2 player and one was a star on the team. I feel with coach John Miller’s hard work bringing in athletes that will fit the mold of the program we have nowhere to go but up.”

3 Waynesburg Softball Players Named to PAC All-Conference Team As the Waynesburg University Softball season came to an end, the Presidents’ Athletic Conference released it’s annual All-Conference team and three different Yellow Jackets received honors after a season that saw them go 8-26 and 4-12 in PAC play.

Heading the list of honorees were FirstTeam All-Conference players senior first baseman Alex Lawrence and junior catcher Rachel Skon. Lawrence had a huge year in her senior season leading the team in batting average (.389) and home runs (4) while finishing second on her team with 13 RBI. Skon led the team in that category driving in 13 runs on the season while also lead-

ing the way with 12 doubles. Skon was second on the team hitting .380 this season while slugging .491 and reaching base at a .404 clip in her 33 games played this season.

Rounding out the Yellow Jacket honorees was senior pitcher Courtney Messenger who earned PAC Honorable Mention Honors. Messenger led the Waynesburg Pitching staff going 5-12 with a 2.92 ERA while walking eight and striking out a team high 38 batters in 112.2 innings worked.

Waynesburg finished their season getting swept in a doubleheader against Bethany where they dropped the first game 8-0 before falling in game two 9-5.

GreeneScene by ?

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Co o l at Sc h o o l

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Finch Tales

ducators at Jefferson Morgan middle school have a mission: to make science interesting and accessible to all students with their innovative Finch Robot program.

“The administration and staff believe that programming is a fundamental and basic skill, not an advanced topic. We strive to provide these opportunities for all of our students and not just a select few,” shares science teacher Ms. Suzanne Boyle.

Ms. Boyle learned of the Finch Robot program from STEAM Innovation Summer Institute of South Fayette last year. STEAM is an educational approach that focuses on Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics.

Ms. Boyle says the Finch program is able to introduce students to computer science and coding in a “fun and engaging manner.”

Students learn how to dissect a problem and analyze solutions. This fresh method helps to promote analytical thinking and peer collaboration.

A total of ten Finch Robots were donated to Ms. Boyle’s 8th’ grade class by Mr. and

Mrs. Leidecker of Jesmar Energy. The student-to-Finch ratio is two students per robot, encouraging teamwork for students; students of varying skills and ability are able to work together on projects.

The Finch Robots are initially used to teach students to code simple movements by the robot. The Finch has a rich interactivity; as the students learn they are able to teach the Finch new actions. The students have taught the Finch Robots to turn, to change their beak color, and to make various sounds using a buzzer. The Finch Robots have also been taught a few additional, delightful activities.

The Finch has been used as a spinner in board games like Twister and Chutes & Ladders. It has also been coded with the songs Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, Happy Birthday and Yankee Doodle. The Finch was then taught to dance to these songs.

“We are hoping to provide this time of exploration so that students can have many options available to them as they progress through high school and ultimately as they choose future career paths”, says Ms. Boyle.

Interest in STEAM may lead to jobs in

Accounting, Engineering or Programming. Due to the critical analytical skills used in the courses, it may also appeal to a future logistics manager, business analyst or even a detective. In addition to students in Ms. Boyle’s class, the 7th grade is using a Finch for Harry Potter Kano Coding. The high school students have coded their Finch robots with the song “Paint it Black”.

Ms. Boyle recommends several books for those interested in learning more about the importance of robotics. Spare Parts by Rebecca Emberley will appeal to small children. Hidden Figures

by Margot Lee Shetterly and its corresponding movie will appeal to adults.

In a world where technology is constantly changing, adaptation is a valuable skill. “Whatever the mind of man can conceive, and believe, it can achieve,” Napoleon Hill, an American selfhelp author, once said. These words have never felt truer.

by Michelle Church

Wyatt Wilson and Justus Battaglia work with their Finch.

2019 GCLS Reading Competition

1st Place High School: Ivy Cramer, Madison Kovach, Molly Mylan, Shelby Burkett, Taylor Burnsfield

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1st Place Middle School: Aiden Moore, Robert Heisey, Anastasia Williams, Bree Clutter, Garrett Wright

1st place Elementary: Kaylee Dickey, Scott Maskil, Plavi, BellaHerod, Sydney Enci

High School: 1st place: Ravenclaw from Jefferson-Morgan High School; 2nd place: The Speed Readers from West Greene High School Middle School: 1st place: The People Who Read from Margaret Bell Miller Middle School; 2nd place: Gryffindor from Jefferson-Morgan; 3rd place: The Page Turners from Margaret Bell Miller Middle School.

Elementary School:1st place: Bell’s Book Worms from Carmichaels Elementary; 2nd place: Reading Raiders from Waynesburg Central Elementary; 3rd place: Fiction Addiction from Flenniken Library.

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2019

STEAMing Through Coal Country

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by Brittany Phillips

n May 1st, Carmichaels Area School District hosted an interactive student showcase called, “STEAMing Through Coal Country.” This community event was part of “Remake Learning Days” that is currently going on in Southwestern PA from May 9-19.

Remake Learning launched their Remake Learning Days in 2016 to increase awareness and access to hands-on, engaging, and equitable learning experiences for children and their families. Their reach includes Pittsburgh, West Virginia, and beyond. Remake Learning Days are the region’s largest open house of these type of activities, involving hundreds of organizations during the month of May. Carmichaels’s teacher Brittany Phillips and fellow employee Sara Perkins were awarded a grant through the Remake Learning network to host an event in Greene County that’s purpose was to invite the community to the future of learning. They wanted to showcase all of the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities that teachers are currently using in the district in

the program; they gave it a coal theme, what Carmichaels is known for, and tied it all together. The coal-inspired activities included drawing and bowling with Finch robots, using HP Reveal on old mining books, mining for chocolate chips with Mrs. Megan Patton, designing train t-shirts with the vinyl cutter and heat press, coal art, Minecraft coding, using the green screen to take old, coal mining photos and insert yourself in them, and liquid nitrogen presentations by Carmichaels teacher Mr. Ken Perkins. Middle and high school students showed guests how to operate each station and try hands-on for themselves.

Included in the event were vendors, companies, and businesses from the community that are either involved in Greene County or in the coal industry, including scholarship and employment opportunities and historical coal mining artifacts that they brought. Phillips and Perkins would like to thank everyone that helped and came out to support the event, including teaching staff, the maintenance crew, and administration, but especially the students who volunteered their time.

The future of coal country is in their hands!

Washington Health System Greene New CT Machine

Greater Patient Comfort Shorter Exam Times Reduced Radiation State-of-the-art Diagnostic Accuracy Larger table that can accommodate pediatric to bariatric patients (up to 660lbs) Mr. Ken Perkins led a liquid nitrogen presentation at the event.

GreeneScene by Gill Sanchez

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• GreeneScene Magazine

To schedule an appointment call (724) 250-6000

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MEMORIAL DAY SERVICES Greene’s New Game Warden SUNDAY – MAY 26, 2019 The Brooks-Crago American Legion Post No. 816 of Rices Landing, PA will hold services as follows: • 1:30 PM Assembly for the parade will be at the Brooks-Crago American Legion Post #816.

• 2:00 PM Parade will begin at the post home and proceed to the Honor Roll located between the Hewitt Cemetery & the Hewitt Presbyterian Church. The participants are as follows: Jefferson-Morgan High School Band, Boy & Girl Scouts of Rices Landing: and the Rices Landing Volunteer Fire Department.

The James R. Maxon American Legion Post No. 992 of Mt. Morris, PA will hold services as follows: • 11:00 AM Services at Kiger Cemetery (HG/FS).

• 11:20 AM Claughton Chapel Cemetery (HG/FS).

The Carmichaels Honor Guard consisting of the Carmichaels American Legion Post No. 400, Carmichaels VFW Post No. 3491; and Greensboro VFW Post No. 6303 will participate and have services as follows: • 11:30 AM Garard Fort Cemetery Service, followed with a salute to the deceased, and placement of the wreath at the Monument (HG/FS).

• 1:00 PM, Greensboro VFW Honor Roll with a salute to the deceased and placement of the wreath to honor our deceased at the Monument (HG/FS).

MONDAY – MAY 27, 2019 The Carmichaels Honor Guard, consisting of members from Carmichaels American Legion Post No. 400; and Carmichaels VFW Post No. 3491 will participate in the listed services: • 10:00 AM Nemacolin Honor Roll • 11:00 AM World War II Monument/Crucible Honor Roll.

• 1:00 PM Laurel Point Cemetery services with a guest speaker. Frank Ricco & the American Legion Post Band will perform the National Anthem. Included in the services are reading of General Logan’s Orders and presentation of the Wreath. The American flag will be presented followed by a prayer.

The Waynesburg Honor Guard, consisting of members from Waynesburg VFW Post No. 4793 & the Waynesburg Legion Post 300 will hold a service at: • 11:00 AM at the Post home on Lincoln Street.

The Filer-Sadlek Post No. 954 of Jefferson, PA will have services as follows: • 11:00 AM Mather Honor Roll/Post Office with the speaker Pastor Shawn Davis of the Pillar of Faith Church in Clarksville, PA. Followed with a salute to the deceased; and placement of the wreath at the Honor Roll.

• 11:30 AM Jefferson Cemetery with a salute to the deceased and wreath placement at the Honor Roll (HG/FS) • 12:00 PM Service at the Veterans’ section of the Greene County Memorial Park, with a salute to the deceased and wreath placed at the base of the American Flag (HG/FS).

The James R. Maxon American Legion Post No. 992 of Mt. Morris will have services as follows: • 10:00 AM Services at the Mt. Morris United Methodist Church.

• 11:00 AM Parade from the Mt. Morris United Methodist Church to the Creek with a salute to the deceased by throwing a flower into the creek in memory of the Navy.

• 12:00 PM Ceremonies at the Cedar Grove Cemetery, with the speaker to be announced. Followed by the placement of the wreath in honor of our deceased at the Monument (HG/FS). *HG - Honor Guard, FS - Firing Squad.

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by Jessica Price

hristopher Bence was a student at IUP, All Pennsylvania State Game Wardens studying criminology and homeland are also Pennsylvania State Police Officers, security, following in the path of his but they serve as conservation experts as well. father, a long-time police officer. One semes- Bence describes his time during the nonter he needed to choose an elective class and hunting months of February to September opted for a biology class, inspired by his long- as public relations time. During this time, time love for the outdoors. he visits schools, clubs, fairs, and events to During his time in that class he listened educate the public on a number of conserto a Pennsylvania State Game Warden speak vation and wildlife topics. In March of this about his job, and realized he needed to steer year he visited the Town & Garden Country his future into a slightly different direction. Club where he spoke about Greene County’s After this encounter he began pursuing the increasing coyote population. He brought path to become a Pennsylvania State Game coyote pelts for members to observe and anWarden. After graduating from IUP in May swered questions. In April, he visited the En2017, Bence then enrolled in the Ross Lefler low Fork Wildflower Walk site and spoke with School of Conservation. Located in Harris- visitors. If you are interested in Bence speakburg, this school is reserved for those who will ing with your group this summer or fall, he become state game wardens. While there he can be reached through his office at 724-238participated in classes and training exercises 9523. The Pennsylvania Game Commission to learn about wild life laws, law enforcement website also has an education section where principals, public relations and conservation. you can find activities and resources for both Bence graduated from this program in Febru- children and adults. ary of 2019. After graduation, he was asked to rank counties in Pennsylvania where he would like to start his career. Bence said he wanted somewhere “Rural, definitely not near a big city like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh.” Greene County fit those requirements, and he was assigned to be the Pennsylvania State Game Warden for primarily the western half of Greene County, although you will also find him assisting Fayette County Game Warden, Charles Shuster, with the eastern half.

Bence describes a week on the job here in Greene County as “very malleable,” saying that, “No two days are the same.” He spends a lot of time responding to calls about animals being a nuisance to people and their homes or livestock. He addresses Chris Bence, Todd Johnson, and Matt Cumberledge at situations where animals have the Enlow Fork Wildfower Walk. been bitten, foxes have gotten into chicken coops, beavers have damaged property, raccoons acting suspiciously, and more.

He also responds to situations involving poaching, or illegal hunting, and ATVs being unlawfully driven on state game lands.

Chris cautions that, “driving ATVs on state game lands decimates the landscape.” Failing to obey this law will result in a fine.

During hunting season, you will find him ensuring all hunters are Chris attended the Ross Lefler School of Conservation. educated, safe, and law-abiding.

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GreeneScene by Karen Cappellini

Carmichaels Captures 32nd Greene County Envirothon

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he 32nd Greene County Envirothon competition was held at Hunting Hills on Wednesday, May 9. Sixty high school students from Greene County’s five school districts competed in this year’s event.

At the Envirothon, five-member teams participated in a series of field station tests that focused us on five topic areas – soils and land use, aquatic ecology, forestry, wildlife and environmental issues. The theme for the 2019 event was “Agriculture and the Environment: Knowledge and Technology to Feed the World.”

Carmichaels Team #1 won this year’s competition with a score of 461 points out of a possible 500 points. Team members Christina Adams, Jacob Hair, Joey Kurincak, Ryan Swartz and Stephan Zacoi with team advisors Kevin Willis and Megan Patton will represent Greene County at the PA Envirothon, which is scheduled for May 21 and 22 at the University of Pittsburgh – Johnstown.

Carmichaels Team #2, consisting of students Emily Zacoi, Brooke Watters, Elizabeth Matyus, Ainsley Chadwick and Braelyn Brozik with advisors Willis and Patton, earned second place with a score of 376 points.

The third-place team was Carmichaels Team #3, which included students David Phillips, Trenton Carter, Nicholas Sholtis,

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Scott Adams and Brady Jones with advisors Willis and Patton. The team earned 349 points.

The Greene County Envirothon is organized each year by the Greene County Conservation District and is funded through donations and grants from various businesses, agencies and individuals. Each student on the winning team secured a $500 college scholarship funded by donations from the donors and the Greene County Conservation District.

In addition to the continued financial support of sponsors, other partners that made the event successful include Greene County Commissioners Blair Zimmerman, Dave Coder and Archie Trader; Phil Evans, Kimberlee Moninger, and Mike Hamilton, U.S.D.A. NRCS; Russ Gibbs, State Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry; Bill Wentzel, Greene County Conservation District; Chuck Kubasik, District Associate Board Members; Michelle Roupe, Farm Service Agency; Eric Davis, PA Fish and Boat Commission. and Brandon Bonin and Chris Bence, PA Game Commission.

FMI on the Envirothon, call the Greene County Conservation District at 724-8525278.

Pictured L-R front row: Coach Kevin Willis; Team #1 members and first-place winners Jacob Hair, Joey Kurincak, Ryan Swartz, Christina Adams and Stephen Zacoi; and Coach Megan Patton. Back row: Team #3 members and third-place winners Trenton Carter, Scott Adams, David Phillips, Brady Jones and Nick Sholtis; and Team #2 members and second-place winners Elizabeth Matyus, Emily Zacoi, Brooke Watters, Braelyn Brozik and Ainsley Chadwick. The students are pictured with Nate Regotti, representing state Rep. Pam Snyder; and Greene County Commissioners Dave Coder and Archie Trader.

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G o in g G re e n e

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DAYDREAMING ON DUNKARD

he Monongahela River winds her way north through 130 miles of scenic terrain, completing her journey to Pittsburgh to meet the Allegheny River and give birth to the mighty Ohio. These three rivers have defined this region and its way of life for centuries. But what of the smaller tributary streams? They are just as important; early on they provided a way of transportation and communities were established along their banks.

Dunkard may be one of the most important of those streams. The headwaters of Dunkard Creek can be found in the hills and valleys of southwestern Greene County and parts of Monongalia County, West Virginia. The Pennsylvania and West Virginia forks of Dunkard meet just west of the village of Brave and form the main channel of a stream that meanders its way back and forth across the state line for nearly forty miles before meeting the Monongahela River just north of Point Marion.

Dunkard, or as it is written in early records “Dunkers” Creek, got its name from a religious sect that settled in the region in the 18th century that practiced full immersion baptism. Though the “Dunkards” only lived here for a short time, the name stuck.

Over two hundred years later, a lot more than baptizing is happening along the waters of Dunkard. A trip up Dunkard from where it meets the Mon is a veritable microcosm of Greene County rural life and culture.

If you really want the experience of Dunkard Valley, head south from the Paisley intersection on Rt. 88 and take it to Dilliner. The bridge on 88 that meets Holbert Stretch marks the point where Dunkard Creek meets the Monongahela River. While you’re there, stop by at the Dilliner Convenience Store right at the intersection of Rt. 88 and Holbert Stretch.

The staff is always friendly and it’s great to support local family owned businesses.

Follow Holbert Stretch west for several miles and enjoy the rural scenery, the small communities and farm land. Tolbert ends at a T intersection, so turn left and head out Bobtown Road, and in a short distance turn right on Taylortown Road. The beautiful drive out Taylortown Road takes you to the site of one of Greene County’s biggest attractions, the Highpoint Raceway.

High Point is nestled in the Rolling hills of Greene County not far from Mount Morris. Since 1977, High Point has been hosting national events, such as the PAMX Thor Championship, the High Point National (part of the 2019 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship), the PAMX Fly Racing Pennsylvania State Championship as well as several other events.

High Point draws more people to Greene County every year than any other single event, and it’s truly an impressive sight to see this rural valley turn into a hive of activity with tens of thousands of people.

Just a short distance after High Point, turn right onto Bald Hill Church Road. We’re getting back into the true beauty of Greene County now! Atop the Hill that Bald Hill Church Road is named for, sits Bald Hill Church, a small little country church built around 1893. Though the present church only dates to the end of the 19th century, a church building has been keeping watch over that hilltop for over 200 years.

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by Matthew Cumberledge

The adjacent cemetery is the final resting spot for many of the Wilma. Lake Wilma is a popular destination for fishermen area’s families, including Jacob Stoneking, a Fifer in the Revo- from all over! Black crappie, bluegill, sunfish, carp, catfish, lutionary War who enlisted when he was around 13 years of trout and bass can all be found lurking in the lake’s still waters. age.

It isn’t uncommon on a nice day to see cars lining the road, Bear left onto Bald Hill Road and follow that ALL the with people spread out all around the 19-acre manmade lake. way into the thriving community of Mount Morris. If you’re Back on Route 7, continue west through Blacksville, past ready for lunch, Mount Morris is a great place to stop. As you the Clay Battelle High school and make a right onto Thoms are driving through town, you’ll first encounter the Huddle Run Road. This leads you into the small village of Brave. As House at the Mount Morris Truck Stop. The “Truck Stop Res- you descend the hill into town, you’re met with a large, red taurant” has always been a staple of dining for locals, open brick structure on the southern bank of Dunkard Creek. The 24-7, you can always stop by and get a quick and delicious bite building now houses Anderson Fittings, but was built in 1906 to eat. The staff is always kind and efficient, and the service by Peoples Natural Gas, as the largest gas pumping station in will never let you down. If you are interested in something the world, at that time. For years it was one of the largest ema bit different, take Locust Avenue through town, turn right ployers, not only in Brave, but in the region. Tragedy struck onto Rt. 19, left onto Main Street, then turn onto Main Avenue on April 2nd, 1917. A faulty valve caused a major explosion and make the left hand turn and the end and you’ll find Ris- that claimed the lives of 6 men. A man who was working near ing Creek Bakery right atop the bank over looking Dunkard the valve that caused the explosion was spared when the blast Creek. Rising Creek offers a menu full of craft sandwiches launched him into the waters of Dunkard Creek. and dishes that cannot be overlooked.

This will be the end of our journey - just a short distance Rising Creek is also involved with the community. This west of the village of Brave, Dunkard splits into Pennsylvania year they will be planning summer movie nights, attending and West Virginia forks. The places and communities that exfarmers markets and being out and about in the region cel- ist now along the waters of Dunkard are a living history of ebrating the our rural heritage with their own time tested reci- rural Pennsylvania, an area where tradition is still very much pes, and their classic salt rising bread! alive, and where local heritage and culture are very much apOnce you’ve refreshed yourself in Mount Morris, turn preciated. onto Wades Run Road and then right onto Buckeye Road.

Buckeye is the epitome of rural life. Travel several miles through the countryside in Dunkard’s wide meandering valley. Buckeye follows Dunkard very closely and leads you to Mason-Dixon Park. Mason Dixon Park has a small play area, and wonderfully relaxing nature trails.

The park hosts several events through out the year, most Bald Hill Church overlooks Dunkard Dunkard Creek at Brave, with Anderson notably the Ramp Festival in Valley.

Fittings in the background.

April. The Ramp Festival is a celebration of the Wild Ramp and many dishes that can be prepared incorporating ramps; it also features other locally produced goods and many activities.

As you keep traveling, you cross the line into ‘Wild and Wonderful’ West Virginia.

Turn west on Rt. 7 and follow Dunkard as it weaves back and forth across the state line towards Blacksville. Blacksville is situated along the Pennsylvania/West Virginia border.

On the PA side of Blacksville, on Bowlby Hill Road, is Lake Lake Wilma on the Pennsylvania side of Blacksville.

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2019 Conservation District Poster and Coloring Contests

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he Greene County Conservation District is proud to announce the winners of the 2019 Conservation District Poster and Coloring Contests that were recently open to all Greene County students, pre-kindergarten through eighth grade.

Both contests offered young people an opportunity to express their views on natural resources and the environment through art.

The coloring contest was open to any child that was pre-K age and enrolled in preschool or lives in Greene County. The top entrants for the coloring contest received new bicycles and helmets.

The winners of the coloring contest were Lydia Juliano, a four-year-old student at Christian Sandbox; Eastyn King, a five-yearold student at Carmichaels Elementary PreK; and Naviah Dean, a four-year-old student at Carmichaels Elementary Pre-K. The poster contest was open to any Greene County student in grades kindergarten through eighth grade. Posters were judged in four grade-based categories (K-1st, 2nd-3rd, 4th-6th and 7th-8th). The top three entrants in each category received cash prizes, with the first-place poster from each category advancing to a statewide Pennsylvania Association of Conservation District poster

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contest later this year.

In the 4th – 6th grade category, first place was taken by Leah Ayers, a fourth-grade student at Waynesburg Central Elementary.

Second place was taken by Sara Tuttle, a fourth-grade student at Waynesburg Central Elementary.

In the 7th – 8th grade category, first place was taken by Elizabeth Bell, a seventh-

Kaylee Ayers, third-place winner in the 7th-8th grade category.

grade student at West Greene Middle School. Second place was taken by London Whipkey, an eighthgrade student at West Greene Middle School. Third place was taken by Kaylee Ayers, a seventhgrade student at Margaret Bell Miller Middle School.

Coloring Contest winners Lydia Juliano, Eastyn King and Naviah Dean.

Elizabeth Bell and London Whipkey, first- and second-place winners in the 7th-8th grade category.

Leah Ayers and Sara Tuttle, first- and second-place winners in the 4th-6th grade category.

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Wilson Forest Products

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by Danielle Nyland

idden in plain sight along Jefferson Road is a stave mill and cooperage, producing staves and finished barrels to be used by barrel makers, distilleries and wineries around the world. For three generations, Wilson Forest Products in Jefferson has been a part of Greene County for 89 years, with three generations of Wilsons quietly producing the products that have made the small company stand out.

In the 1930s, the US Navy had a need for timber to be used for the decks of its ships. The necessity for white oak plank decks brought William Wilson of Columbus, Ohio to this southern corner of western Pennsylvania, where he founded Wilson Forest Products.

William partially chose Greene County due to the prevalence of white oak; it proved more economical to purchase the land and trees outright. Wilson Forest Products opened in Graysville in 1931 and began providing timber for the US Navy. After WWII, production shifted with demand, and the company began to produce staves, the cut boards used in the creation of barrels for making whiskey and wine.

William sold the business on to his son, Bill, in the early 1970s. During the years that Bill operated the company, it expanded its operations even further, and in 1981, began exporting staves to countries outside of the US. The company moved from Graysville to Jefferson in 1992. In 2001 the family expanded the business again to include a cooperage and began making their own barrels for export.

In the early 2000’s, Bill’s sons Mike and Brian took over the operation of the business. Mike serves as chief executive officer and Brian as the chief operating officer.

The cooperage produces about 22,000 barrels a year on average. “We’re a smaller cooperage, in the grand scheme,” says Brian.

Because of that, the company focuses more on the quality of the barrel they provide in-

stead of quantity. The barrels they make are exported world-wide for use in the creation of scotch whiskey, while their staves are sold to other cooperages within the United States and throughout the world.

The average time to create a barrel is 18 months, but can range from as short as five months or as long as three years, depending on the customers needs. Once the timber arrives at Wilson, the raw logs are quartered into staves and then either kiln-dried or air seasoned (for up to three years). Air seasoning provides more time for the wood to leach out any natural chemicals, like tannin, and makes for a softer tasting product.

After the wood has been dried, the actual process of creating the barrel only takes about two hours from start to finish, thanks in part to technology. “We have to be as technological as we can be,” shares Brian. “It’s the future. There’s still a lot of hands-on and hard labor, but we’re about as automated as you can get. It’s really helped.” However, the company knows the need to keep the human eye. “Customers like to see human interaction and there are limits to what a robot can do. A robot doesn’t know steel from wood, where a human can look at a piece of wood and notice a flaw,” he adds.

All the white oak that Wilson Forest Products uses comes from a 500-mile radius around Greene County and they employ two full-time log buyers. “Customers will often want oak from a certain area, such as South Carolina, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, depending on what they want for their product,” says Brian. “”Certain regions are better for particular wines or spirits. Climates are different, soils are different.”

Wilson Forest Products is the only cooperage that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), thanks to the sustainability practices. To be certified by the FSC,

After the staves are trimmed, they are checked as they come out of the machine.

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Wilson Forest Products’ cooperage in Jefferson exports about 22,000 barrels a year.

you must manage your forest or supply chain responsibly and comply with stringent environmental, social, and economic standards.

These practices help the company keep a low impact on the environment. To maintain the certification with the FSC, the company must follow certain rules. “We’re very selective in what we buy,” says Brian. “We only buy timber from properties that use proper forest management practices. The area the timber comes from must be able to be reforested. We can’t buy timber that may come from construction sites, like pipelines or home sites.”

He adds, “It can be a tedious process to keep our certification, but it’s important and it means a lot to our customers. Today’s customers are more environmentally aware and responsible than past generations.”

Prevalent in eastern and central North America, White Oak, or Quercus alba, wood is preferred for barrels – and shipbuilders because it is both waterproof and durable.

Because wood is reactive, the wood interacts with the whiskey or wine stored inside and imparts desirable qualities, such as color and a range of tastes. Distilled whiskey is clear and receives its rich caramel color from the wood it is stored in. Flavors are imparted through the wood by aging, toasting, and charring.

Barrels in the toasting room are going through the char process.

The raw staves are passed through a machine that completes a double end trim and turns one side concave and one convex. These staves are used to set the barrel up. The barrels at Wilson are 110 inches in diameter. The staves are placed on a table exactly 100 inches long and pieced together. Once they are ready the barrel is set up using an iron hoop with staves placed inside.

The barrels are then sent to the toasting room where they are heated up to make the wood more pliable. They are placed on a machine that brings the barrel together. Once together, the barrel is brought back into the toasting room for additional charring.

Toasting the wood mellows the harsh tannins by breaking down the molecular structure. During the heating process required to bend the barrels, the cooper can toast the wood on the inside of the barrel for a certain amount of time. The variation of toasting levels provides many different flavor profiles. Barrels are also charred; these barrels are set on fire to open the pores quickly and forcibly. Just like with toasting, there are different levels of char.

Toasting creates a more steady and controlled pace for the extraction of chemicals in the wood into the product. Char, on the other

The barrels are charred and then a groove is created inside the barrel to hold the head.

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hand, makes the extraction of chemicals out jobs that require less training, and depending of the wood much quicker. Toasting is gener- on their strengths, have been moved to more ally used for wine barrels, where the product skilled positions. “Everybody seems to find will have a slower extraction but stay in the their groove,” Brian says. “We’ve got a lot of barrel usually only 18-24 months. Charred good employees and they’re all willing to help barrels are used for whiskey, when the ex- others.” traction is needed to happen quickly but the He adds, “There’s a sense of pride with product will often remain in the barrel at least these guys. They make a specialty niche prodten years. uct that is sent around the world. When they After toasting and charring, the staves of purchase a whisky or wine made by one of the barrel are then knocked out with a ham- our customers, they know that they may have mer to ensure that they are as close to perfect a had a hand in its making.” as they can be and then taken to a machine The sense of pride can be seen throughthat will cut the bunghole and create a groove out Wilson Forest Products., from the eminside the barrel for the head to rest on. There ployees to the owners. This family-owned are no glues or chemicals used in the barrel business has been creating an exceptional making process. The barrel is then sanded, product right here in Greene County for aland metal hoops are placed on it to hold it most 90 years and will continue to do so for together. years to come.

The barrels are then prepared for quality control and shipping. About ten percent of the barrels are tested with water.

Barrels with what could be seen as an ‘obvious problem’ such as knotholes are checked, as well as barrels that have no exterior defects.

The 63 full-time and parttime employees receive a lot of in-house training. Much of the Completed heads are ready to be placed into barrels. team has started with the basic

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Carmichaels Cook Off

Saturday, June 1st, Carmichaels will be holding its 1st Ever Carmichaels Cookoff in the Town Square from 8am to 5pm!

The main event will be a Barbeque Cookoff, but there will also be a Chili Cookoff and a Bring Your Best Side Dish Competition.

Contestants will be selling their delicious

food throughout the day. There will also be activities for kids of all ages. If cooking isn’t your thing, a Hot Dog Eating Contest will held during the event. FMI, visit carmichaelscookoff.org, call 724-998-4296, or find them on Facebook @CarmichaelsCookoff.

Military Overseas Donations

Carmichaels VFW Auxiliary Post 3491 has received a grant for supplies and shipping costs for our overseas military personnel. They are asking for your help by donating non-perishable items. Items will be shipped as boxes are filled. You may also

include a card or a letter. Examples of items requested: beef jerky, gum, mints, hard candy, trail mix, sunflower seeds, current magazines, crossword puzzles, protein bars, white socks, toothpaste, paper, pens, DVDs, razors, gummy bears, dried fruit, etc.

Little Miss Firecracker Applications Applications are now available for the Little Miss Firecracker Pageant, sponsored by the Waynesburg Lions Club and Waynesburg Sewing Center. The pageant is staged at the Greene County Fairgrounds during the Lions Club annual 4th of July Celebration at 6PM. It is a noncompetitive pageant for girls ages 5 to 8 (as of July 4, 2019). Participants appear in patriotic attire and are interviewed on stage, with the winner being determined by a random drawing of flowers. The winner receives a crown, sash, trophy and bouquet.

Each contestant receives a participation medal. Pictured is the reigning 2018 Little Miss Firecracker, Bridgette Garber, daughter of Shelby King and Jason Garber , who will crown the new queen. The deadline for application is June 12, 2019.

FMI as well as applications, call Eleanor Chapman at (724) 627-5284.

EQT REC Center Summer Camps

The EQT REC Center will be hosting a variety of summer camps for children this summer. Day camp, sports camps, and science camps are available for children ages 5 – 13. Each week will feature a different theme selected for that camp. Day camp is available for 2, 3, and 5 days. Cost of 2-day camp is $50 (members) and $75 (nonmembers). 3-day camp is $75 (members) and $95 (nonmembers). 5 day camp is $100(members) and $125 (nonmembers). Both sports and science camps are 5

day programs and cost $125(members) and $150(nonmembers).

Preschool summer camp is available for ages 3-4 and is held Monday – Friday from 8am – 1pm. Preschool camps will be held from June 3rd until August 1 and each week will have a different theme. The weekly cost for members is $75 and nonmembers is $90. Each hour after 1pm is $10. To register for any of these camps, visit eqtreccenter.org. Camp registration closes two Fridays before the camp start date.

Volunteer Drivers Needed Deliver a smile and a nutritious meal to senior citizens in your community! The Blueprints Volunteer Home Delivered Meals Program is in need of drivers in the Carmi-

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chaels area of Greene County. Commitment can be as little as one day per week. Mileage reimbursement available to those 55+. FMI, call 724-966-2290.

Victory 5K Kids Club

New this year, the Victory 5K Kids Club will be a practice run/walk of the Victory 5K Children’s Challenge Mile Run. The club will hold two meetings: June 15th and July 13th at 9:30am. This is a FREE event and includes a devotion, kids activity, and allergy friendly snack. Snack and activity are provided by the Greene County Historical Society Museum. The event is a practice

run only and is not timed by a professional timing service. It’s open to all ages and children 12 and under are encouraged to attend. A waiver must be signed by a parent or guardian to participate. The event will be held at Washington Township park. FMI, call 724-344-2527 or email the victory5k@ yahoo.com.

4-H Day Camp

Greene County youth ages 8-12 are invited to participate in a “Day at the Museum” 4-H Day Camp on Wednesday, June 19 at the Greene County Museum, 918 Rolling Meadows Road, Waynesburg, PA. The day begins with registration at 8:00 am and ends at 5:00 pm. Youth will enjoy a tour of the museum, an archaeological dig, Civil War and Native American presentations.

Cost is $15/person and includes lunch/snacks, t-shirt, crafts and educational activities. Reservations due by June 5. Youth do not have to be 4-H members to participate. Camp is partially funded by the 4-H Youth Development Fund and 4-H County Council. The Greene County 4-H Council members will serve as counselors for the day’s activities. FMI call 724-627-3745.

Nurse Camp

Waynesburg University will host its first-ever Nurse Camp Saturday, July 27, to Monday, July 29. The camp will educate incoming high school juniors and seniors about the nursing profession through lectures and hands-on activities in the Simulation Lab. The camp will include lessons on the history of nursing, safety and infection control, basic life support and more. There

will also be a variety of interactive simulation activities.

The cost is $150 and includes instruction, camp activities, lodging in Waynesburg University’s upperclassmen residence halls and hot, buffet-style meals. To register, visit waynesburg.edu/nurse-camp before Friday, June 28. Scholarship funding is available. FMI, email sbell@waynesburg.

STEAM Camp

Waynesburg University STEAM Camp will be held Sunday, July 21 to Thursday, July 25. This event promotes learning in the fields of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics and is open to high school students.

The cost is $300. The camp cost includes instruction, camp activities, lodging in Waynesburg University’s upperclassmen

residence halls and hot, buffet-style meals throughout the week. Registration closes on Friday, June 28. Scholarship funding is available for students from Washington and Greene counties. To apply for a scholarship, students should submit visit Waynesburg. edu and submit the form by June 5. FMI, email sbell@waynesburg.edu.

Vendors, Crafters, & Artists Wanted for Art Blast Nathanael Greene CDC is planning for the 13th annual Art Blast on the Mon to be held on September 1st at the Ice Plant Pavilion in Greensboro. Vendors, crafters and interactive artists are needed to make this event a special art and music festival.

FMI, contact Mary Shine at 724-943-4462 or shine201027@yahoo.com

GreeneScene Magazine •

JUNE

2019

MATCH THE GREENE CO. FLOWERS

WINNERS! Congratulations to our winners from last month’s ‘Match the Flowers’ contest.

Each winner won 4 passes to the Skyview Drive In.

1564 E. Roy Furman Hwy. • Rt. 21 East CARMICHAELS, PA 74 Old Cheat Rd. • 1 Mile from I-68 MORGANTOWN, WV

1-304-292-POOL (7665)

Tara Taylor of Waynesburg

Amy Brownfield of Waynesburg

Jennifer Cobaugh of Waynesburg

Marsha Keener of New Freeport JUNE 2019

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MONDAY x

TUESDAY 1

WEDNESDAY 2

THURSDAY 3

FRIDAY

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FATHER’S DAY 17 Flashlight Drags, Father’s Day BBQ & Bluegrass

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Traveling Korean Memorial, 3 Greene County VIP Mystery Tour

Flea Market, 5 TAG, Tiny Tim Tomato Project, Adult Book Club,

Cookbook Club 25

Greene County Summer 18 Camps Start

Flea Market, 26 Sounds of Summer, Greene Co. Photo Club Meeting

Flea Market, 19 TAG, Adult Coloring Group, Sounds of Summer

Horseback Librarians, 11 Flea Market, 12 Bowlby Book Club, Cornerstone Genealogical Society Sounds of Summer Meeting

EQT REC Center Summer 4 Camps Start Senior Monday

Farmers Market, 27 Movie Night

4-H Day Camp, 20 Farmers Market, Brown Bag Book Club, Movie Night

Farmers Market, 13 Movie Night

Farmers Market, 6 Brown Bag Book Club, Movie Night,

Want your photo featured on our calendar? Send them in at GreeneSceneMagazine.com!

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Senior Day, 21 Warrior Trail Meeting

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Drop of History Lecture 7

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Cruise-In for Veterans, Lego Brick Masters, Rices Landing Riverfest, Mason-Dixon Concert Series

Greene County Pools Open Traveling Korean Memorial, Carmichaels Cookoff, Warrior Trail Public Hike, Cruisin’ the Museum

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Pie & Bingo 29

FIRST DAY OF SUMMER 22

Stranger Things Binge Watch Party, Motor Madness Car Show,

Stranger Things Binge Watch Party, Lego Brick Masters

FLAG DAY 15 Stranger Things Binge Watch Greene Co. Summer Camp Party, Registration, Victory 5K Kids Club, Cruise-In Camp Cornerstone Open House.

Mather Town Festival

Rices Landing Riverfest 8

online event calendar!

Senior Monday Flea Market, Movie Night, Crafternoon Lucille DeFrank of Carmichaels took thisSenior photo Want more events? Visit Cornhole,of her grandson, Makerspace Club, Flenniken Book Club STEAMing Through Coal Country Kyle Loring, getting up sclose and personal with a butterfly. greenescenemagazine.com’s

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Movie Night 6pm @ Bowlby Library. Every Wednesday. Free popcorn and beverage. Visit evakbowlby.org/ events for film titles. FMI: call 724-627-9776.

Brown Bag Book Club 5/8, 5/22 – 12pm @ Bowlby Library. Bring your lunch! 1st meeting will pick a book and 2nd meeting will host book discussion.

Farmers Market 10am – 2pm @ Church Street, Waynesburg. Held every Wednesday.

Book Club 6 - 7pm @ Flenniken Library.. 1st Tuesday of each month. FMI: flenniken.org or 724-966-5263

Tiny Tim Tomato Project 5pm @Bowlby Library. Ages 2-6 learn about growing your own tomato plant. FMI: call 724-6279776.

Teen Advisory Group(TAG) 6/4, 6/18 - 5pm @ Bowlby Library. Teens ages 13-18 are invited to come to the library and hang out! Bring a friend! FMI: call 724-627-9776.

Flea Market 7am – 2pm @ Greene Co. Fairgrounds. Every Tuesday.

Senior Monday 10:30am – 12pm@ Bowlby Library. Spring craft, and light lunch. RSVP at 724-627-9776.

EQT REC Center Summer Camps Call 724-627-2739 or visit eqtreccenter.org FMI.

Greene County VIP Mystery Tour 1 – 7:30pm @Thistlethwaite Vineyards. Spend a day exploring Greene County like you have never before with our first VIP Mystery Tour.

Cruisin’ the Museum 10am – 3pm @ Greene County Hisorical Society Museum. $10/car, free tours of the museum.

FMI 724-255-9066.

Sounds of Summer 5:30pm @ Waynesburg Lions Club Park, every Monday. Show on June 10 starts at 6:30. See their ad for more info!

Bowlby Book Club 6 - 7pm @ Bowlby Library. 2nd Monday. New members are always welcome! To see book selection for the month, visit www.evakbowlby.org.

Horseback Librarians 6pm @ Bowlby Library. A look back at horseback librarians. Free & open to public.

Mather Town Festival 12-10pm @ 6th St., Mather. Music, food, vendors and activities.

Camp Cornerstone Open House 11am - 7:30pm @ Cornerstone Ministries in Jefferson. Open house and benefit concert. FMI 724-966-9157.

Victory 5K Kids Group 9:30am @ Garner Run Rd, Prosperity. Practice race, devotion, activity and snack.

6/15, 6/22, 6/29 10am – 3pm @ Bowlby Library. Catch up on the first 2 seasons! FMI: call 724-627-9776.

15 Stranger Things Binge Watch Party

Cruise-In 5:30 – 8:30pm @ Gospel Tabernacle, Mt. Morris. 50s music and food. FMI: 724-424-2454.

12 - 3pm @ camp locations.

14 Greene Co. Summer Camp Registration

7 - 8pm at the Cornerstone Genealogy Society Library. Open to the public. Contact CGS library at 724-627-5653 FMI.

10am – 3pm @ Waynesburg Central High School. Music, food, raffles, and more. FMI info@ greenechamber.org.

29 Motor Madness Car Show

6-9pm @Bowlby Library. Play bingo, win prizes and enjoy some pie! FMI: call 724-627-9776.

28 Pie & Bingo

7 - 8pm @ Waynesburg Bible Chapel. Meets every 4th Tuesday. Meetings features a photo challenge and presentation. FMI, visit www.greenecountyphotoclub.org.

25 Greene Co. Photo Club

6pm @ Bowlby Library. Try new recipes and meet new friends! FMI: call 724-627-9776.

24 Cookbook Club

Warrior Trail Assoc. Meeting 6:30 - 7:30pm @ the Warrior Trail Headquarters in Fordyce. Meetings are 3rd Thursday of the month. FMI: 304-534-2213

12- 2pm @ Community Senior Center in Greensboro. Activity and light lunch. FMI 724-9433721.

20 Senior Day

See Message Board.

19 4-H Day Camp

Mason-Dixon Concert Series 6 – 8:30pm @ Mason-Dixon Historical Park. Tickets $5, kids under 12 free.

5:30pm @ Flenniken Library. 3rd Tuesday each month. FMI: flenniken.org or 724-966-5263.

18 Adult Coloring Group

Lego Brick Masters 5/11, 5/25 - 11am @ Bowlby Library. FMI: call 724-627-9776.

Greene Co. Dept of Recreation Summer Camp Starts 10am - 3pm 6/17 - 7/26 except 7/4.

Father’s Day BBQ & Bluegrass 6 – 8pm @ Greene Co. Fairgrounds. $10 donation to enter for Corner Cupboard Food Bank.

Music and food!

12pm @ Greene County Airport. Visit flashlightdrags.com fmi.

16 Flashlight Drags

Cruise-In for Veterans 17 10am – 1pm @ American Legion of Rices Landing, Vendors, music, food and more. $15/vehicle.

Rices Landing Riverfest 6/7 5 – 10pm, 6/7 2pm- 12am @ Main Street, Rices Landing. Music, fireworks, activities. $5 age 18+, $2 ages 5-17, free under 5.

Drop of History 7pm @Greene County Historical Society Museum. Lecture by Kevin Paul.

11 Cornerstone Genealogy Society Meeting

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Carmichaels Cookoff 8am – 5pm @ West George St., Carmichaels. BBQ, chili and sides to enter as competition, plus music, games and more! Carmichaelscookoff.org.

Warrior Trail Public Hike 9:30am – 12:30pm @ Warrior Trail HG in Fordyce. Shuttle available to return to car. FMI: 304-534-2213

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Korean Traveling Wall 6/1, 6/2 @ Greene Co. Fairgrounds.

Mason-Dixon Concert Series

Commissioners Present Certificate of Achievement to Rifles Champion

Greene County Commissioners recently presented Selena Phillips, a senior student at Waynesburg Central High School, with a Certificate of Achievement for her impressive accomplishments in earning her right to be called two-time WPIAL Rifle Champion. ed the restoration of the landmark Crouse Selena helped make history for WaynesSchool as a member of the Greene County burg Central High School in February 2018 Historical Society. He vigilantly supports when she shot a perfect score of 200-20x to these and other concerns, in addition to own- capture the WPIAL individual rifle champiing and operating his Walters Takedown Tire onship at Dormont-Mt. Lebanon Sportsmen’s Shop in Rogersville.

Club in Canonsburg. This marked the first rifle championship in the school’s history. In March 2019, Selena entered the 2019 WPIAL Rifle Championship as the defending gold medalist and exited Dormont-Mt. Lebanon Sportsmen’s Club as the two-time champion.

Selena showed great consistency in defense of her district title, scoring 106.4 in both relays for a winning total of 212.8. This impressive effort enabled her to compete in the state PIAA Championship earlier this year.

“These are impressive achievements that deserve to be recognized,” said Commissioner Blair Zimmerman as he and Commissioners Dave Coder and Archie Trader presented Selena with the Certificate. Commissioners added that Selena should also be recognized for her other athletic accolades, as well as her academic and community achievements.

She maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout high

2019 Community Citizen Award

The Harveys-Aleppo Grange #1444 presented the 2019 Community Citizen Award to John “Buzz” Walters on April 23rd. Buzz graduated from Mapletown High School and went to West Greene in the early 1960s as a teacher, coach - football for eight years, wrestling for thirty-two - and the Home School Visitor. He also coached at Beth Center and Clay-Batelle. Buzz is recognized throughout southwestern PA as a crusader of worthy causes, particularly those with military and/ or community roots. He is the face of the Tri-County Leathernecks and their annual Toys for Tots Drive at Christmas and frequently leads the Pledge of Allegiance at the County Commissioners’ meetings, as well as when the Greene County courts convene. When you see him out and around, he will likely be headed to a meeting for the Sons of the American Revolution, the United Way, the 40-8, Veterans’ Council, Retired Coaches Association, United Methodist Church, Loyal Order of the Moose, American Legion, or to one of the many other worthy causes that lie deep in his heart. Buzz spearhead- Pam Snyder and Buzz Walters at the Harveys-Aleppo Grange.

school and has a class rank of 1 out of 124.

She has earned numerous academic honors, was named two-time Athlete of the Week and Lions Club Student of the Month, assumed leadership positions for various school entities and has served as a community service volunteer and teacher for her church.

Zimmerman said the Commissioners recognize Selena “for her impressive achievements serving as a member of the Waynesburg Central High School Rifle Team, and for striving for – and achieving – perfection in her quest to become not just a WPIAL Rifle Champion, but a TWO-time champion, a difficult feat that exemplifies heart, dedication and Greene County pride. We also recognize her for her many other scholastic achievements as well.”

Joining Selena in accepting the Certificate of Achievement were her parents, Jim and Paulette Phillips, and Justin Stephenson, WCHS Assistant High School Principal and Athletic Director. Selena thanked the Commissioners for the Certificate of Achievement, adding that she wishes to share the recognition with the entire Rifle Team. “Competing in Rifle competition is a challenge, and we worked together to finish third in the state,” she said. “It truly was a team effort, and the whole team deserves to be recognized.”

Mary Jane Kent, Grange leader, is in the background.

Local Fire Departments and EMS Receive Grants State Rep. Pam Snyder has announced the award of $184,721 in state grants to Greene County fire departments. The grants are made possible by the state’s Fire Company and Volunteer Ambulance Service Grant Program, and can be used toward repairing, building or renovating facilities. The money can also be applied toward the purchase of new equipment, training and certification of staff, or toward repayment of equipment purchases or facility building and maintenance.

“Our volunteer firefighting and EMS organizations do a tremendous job serving our local communities,” Snyder said. “These funds are instrumental in helping these volunteer organizations meet financial challenges and continue to provide these life-saving and sustaining services to our communities.”

• Carmichaels & Cumberland Township VFD – $12,667.

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Center Township VFC – $12,007.

Clarksville & Community VFD, $11,512; EMS, $7,155.

Greensboro Monongahela Township VFC–$11,512.

Jefferson VFC – $12,007.

Jefferson VFC Ambulance Service – $7,155.

Morris Township VFD $11,677.

Mt. Morris Community VFC – $11,677.

Nemacolin VFC, $11,512; EMS, $5,723.

New Freeport VFD – $11,512.

Rices Landing VFD, $11,677; EMS, $5,711.

Richhill Township VFC, $11,512; EMS: $3,382.

Wayne Township VFC – $11,512 Waynesburg Franklin Township VFC – $14,811.

L-R: Commissioner Dave Coder; Paulette and Jim Phillips; Commissioner Archie Trader; Selena Phillips; Commissioner Blair Zimmerman; and Justin Stephenson, WCHS Assistant High School Principal and Athletic Director.

West Greene Receives School Safety Grant

Approximately $149,000 in state funds to be used for school security planning and technology have been awarded to the West Greene School District in Greene County.

The grants were announced by the state’s School Safety and Security Committee, which is part of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency Act 44 of 2018 resulted in the creation of this committee,

which is responsible for developing the criteria schools use in performing school safety and security assessments. The grants can be used for a wide variety of programs that address school safety, including risk assessment and violence-prevention efforts, classroom management, conflict resolution or dispute management initiatives and to install technology pertaining to school and student safety.

GreeneScene Magazine •

JUNE

2019

The Fabulous Hubcaps

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he “Sounds of Summer” FREE Concert Series presented by the Waynesburg Lions Club is beginning with a definite bang on Monday June 10 and continues for the next 6 weeks. Throughout the summer, the Lions are treating local residents and visitors to free live music and fun every Tuesday night at Lion’s Club Park from 5:30-7:30, unless otherwise noted on the schedule.

The first concert should be a definite date for you with the Fabulous Hubcaps, perhaps the most popular nostalgia show band in the country. The Fabulous Hubcaps perform from Miami to Pittsburgh, Atlanta to Detroit and Albany to D.C. at such renown venues as the White House, the Kentucky Derby, and Camden Yards, and aboard Carnival Cruise Lines Fantasy.

Performing together since 1974, this seven-piece band shows no sign of slowing down. The Hubcaps continue to captivate audiences with their high energy tributes to original artists like Little Richard, Elvis,

JUNE 2019

• GreeneScene Magazine

Patsy Cline, Willie Nelson, Fats Domino, Ray Charles, Tina Turner, The Beach Boys and Rod Stewart, Whitney Houston, just to name a few. Their extensive repertoire of do-wop group harmony, classic rock and roll, rocka-billy, Motown and R&B music makes for a magical evening of entertainment for all ages.

The Fabulous Hubcaps will perform on a Monday night, June 10 at the Waynesburg Central High School Auditorium. It is the only concert of the summer that is not on a Tuesday night, and it will be from 6:30-9pm, also different from the regular 5:30-7:30 schedule. It is like all the rest in one way, though, it is still FREE! AS a community service, the Waynesburg Lions Club has organized these concerts and obtained local sponsors to provide FREE ENTERTAINMENT to the public in our communities. Take advantage of it! Cut out this schedule and plan to enjoy the Sounds of Summer.

UN-CLASSIFIEDS

Entertainment center, 60”L x 49.5” W. Tan, shelves and cubbies. $25. 724-966-2125.

Yard Sale: May 25-26, 8AM-2PM. 100 Zavora Ln, Carmichaels. Musical instruments, toys, posters, furniture, clothing, kitchen items.

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Flags for Heroes: Honoring Heroes of all kinds

W

hen one sees the word “hero,” most people think of military members, police officers, and fire fighters. Without question, these protectors and rescuers are absolutely the most recognizable. These selfless heroes lay their lives on the line each and every day to keep us safe, save us when things go wrong, and bring justice our communities. However, there are many types of heroes. Hero is defined by Merriam-Webster as “a person who is admired for great or brave acts or fine qualities.”

A hero can be a teacher who helped you turn around your academic life, a coach who knew you had talent and wouldn’t give up on you, a nurse who went above and beyond to help you when you were sick, your hardworking father, your sacrificing mother, your wise grandparent, a family member or friend, or even a stranger. It is ALL of these heroes, from veterans to neighbors to cops to parents, that will be honored by the Waynesburg Rotary Club this summer.

Rotary Clubs across the country hold annual Flags for Heroes events but Waynesburg had yet to have one until 2018, when the Waynesburg Rotary Club held it’s first Flags for Heroes event. When the Vietnam Travel-

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by Stephanie Lampe

ing Memorial Wall made it’s stop in Greene County in 2017, the Cheat Lake Rotary Club loaned out their Flags for Heroes flags. The flags were displayed on the Greene County Fairgrounds fence along Rt. 21 for more impact. Melody Longstreth, Co-Chair of Flags for Heroes, credits Connie Hart, a member of the Chamber of Commerce, for borrowing the flags from the Cheat Lake Rotary.

“She told us that we should consider doing a Flags for Heroes event,” Longstreth says, “She [Hart] is responsible for the idea.”

The Waynesburg Rotary members were not familiar with the event and needed more information. Soon after, Co-Chairs Melody Longstreth and Barb Wise met with Jordan Feathers, President of the Cheat Lake Rotary Club. “He gave us a lot of information,” says Longstreth.

In 2018, the first Flags for Heroes event was held in Waynesburg. Longstreth explains that individuals or businesses can sponsor a flag in honor or memory of a hero. “The hero can be anybody,” she adds. The flags were displayed on the Greene County Fairgrounds fence along Route 21. “We advertised on social media and had radio and print ads,” shares Longstreth. “We were very pleased

with the response.” The Waynesburg Bonner Scholars helped with putting up and taking down the flags. “If they are available, we hope to have them back this year,” adds Longstreth.

The 2019 event will run from the end of June through the week of July 4th. The flags, which are 3 ft. by 5 ft. American flags hung on a 10 foot pole, will be attached to the Greene County Fairgrounds fence again this year. “The flags will be about 15 feet in the air,” says Longstreth, “and we are expanding this year.” Not only will the flags be displayed at the fairgrounds along Rt. 21 and Rt. 188, there will be flags displayed at the airport as well.

“We are very excited,” adds Longstreth.

The proceeds from last year were saved and used to purchase more flags. (Fun Fact: all Rotary Clubs purchase their flags from the same company which has worker(s) assigned to work only Rotary.) “We are still in the growing phase,” states Longstreth. They are

Flags line the fence at the fairgrounds.

a group of volunteers assembles the flags.

hoping that, after this year, they will be able to start using proceeds to benefit individuals and organizations that reflect the Rotary Club motto “Service Before Self.”

GreeneScene Magazine •

JUNE

2019

Swim into Summer Fun!

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he 2019 summer swimming season will be kicking off on Saturday, May 25 when the county pools open for Memorial Day weekend! The pools will close again until June 1, when they will reopen for the season.

Waynesburg Water Park offers a wide range of attractions and amenities, with a 330,000 gallon competition-sized pool, seven lap lanes , two diving boards & 12 ft. diving pool, 40 ft.x40 ft. children’s play area, 148 ft. spiral water slide , 25 ft. straight water slide, 180 ft. “Lazy River” with tubes for floating, water jets and recreation equipment. A community room is available to rent for special occasions. Adjacent to the waterpark is the Lions Club Park, updated with newly purchased playground equipment and a community building. The aquatic park’s hours are Sun-Thur 1pm-7pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-8pm. The pool will close for the season on September 2.

Mon View Pool features a 200,000-gallon T-shaped pool, a diving board, an 11-foot diving pool, a 20x20-foot children’s play area with zero-depth entry, and a cool bench and sprinklers. It sits adjacent to Mon View Park, with volleyball court, horseshoes, newly renovated roller rink and community building for rent. Nearby is the Greensboro Borough hiking and biking trail. Pool hours are Mon-Sun 1pm-7pm Eastern (Carmichaels) Pool features a 300,000 gallon z-shaped pool, a diving board, an 11-foot diving pool, an 8-foot water slide, a 70-foot spiral water slide, and a 15-by-15-foot children’s play area. Carmichaels pool is adjacent to Wana B Park, containing a playground with slides, swings and other equipment; ball fields; and an outdoor track. Pool hours are Mon-Sun 1pm-7pm. Both Carmichaels and Mon View Pool will close for the season on August 10.

All pools have a snack bar or snack machines, changing facilities, showers, restrooms, lockers and certified-lifeguards on duty. Each is adjacent to a nearby playground/park with pavilions available for rent.

For those on the western side of the county, Ryerson Station State Park in Wind Ridge offers swimming facilities, as well as plenty of interesting trails to hike.

JUNE 2019

• GreeneScene Magazine

Swimming lessons are offered at both the Waynesburg Water Park and Carmichaels Pool. Sign-up will be held from 9am-6pm on May 29 at Waynesburg and on May 30 at Carmichaels. If you are unable to register that day, you may register your children up to the first day of class. Lessons are $25 per class. Each class is designed for swimmers of certain skill levels, starting with children as young as 6 months.

Following the opening of the pools, Greene County Day Camp will start on Monday, June 17th and run until Friday, July 26th.

The six-week camp is for children ages 5 to 15 years old. Camp is held from 10 am to 3 pm Monday through Friday. There is a nominal fee of $2 per camp day for campers that would like to swim. A hot lunch and snacks are provided.

There are 4 camp sites: Wana B Park, Mon View Park, and the Lions Club Park, and at Ryerson Station State Park. Children living outside of these areas can register to be picked up and dropped off by bus at Bobtown elementary (bussed to Mon View), Jefferson Township Park (bussed to Wana B), Nemacolin Fire Department (bussed to Wana B), and Ninevah Community Center (bussed to Ryerson). Pre-Registration will be held on June 14, but campers can register at any time during the six-week program.

2017 introduced the UPSTREAM program, which is about “You Being Physical in Science, Technology, Recreation, Engineering, Art and Math.” Campers will participate in hands-on projects that focus on these topics, combined with physical activities. The final week of camp will feature field trips for campers and a ‘Last Day Picnic’ on July 26.

The Greene County Day Camp Program is sponsored by the Greene County Commissioners and is funded through sponsors and fundraisers such as the Miss Greene County Pageant and the Dock to Lock 5K Run/Walk & 10K Run. Donations are also received from companies and other events. Parent donations are greatly appreciated to help with the cost of operation.

FMI about the camps or pools, call the Department of Recreation at 724-852-5323 or visit www.co.greene.pa.us.

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Southwestern PA Haunted Con

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noon with a presentation about his experiences with paranormal activity over the past 30 years. He started his presentation with a viewing of Terror in the Woods, which discusses his first Bigfoot sighting at age 13.

He discussed other paranormal phenomena of West Virginia.

Stan Gordon, of Greensburg, followed Dave’s presentation with an in-depth discussion of Bigfoot sightings around the area. Stan has been researching paranormal phenomena for over 60 years; his special sightings hotline was established in 1969 and has received large amounts of activity, especially recently.

The last speaker of the day was Steve Hummel, curator of the Archive of the Afterlife in Moundsville, WV discussed how he first became interested in the paranormal. He also brought several items from his museum as part of his presentation.

hose with an interest in the strange and unusual gath- tions with a discussion about their investigations around the ered at the EQT REC Center on May 18th for Greene Greene County area, including the Greene County Historical County’s first-ever paranormal convention. The con- Society and the site of the Crow’s Rock Massacre. vention ran from 10am to 4pm with speakers scheduled Joey & Tonya Madia of Leavittsburg, Ohio, following throughout the day. Following the event, at 6:30pm, a pre- Outsides Paranormal, presented a slideshow featuring highsentation was given at the Hartley Inn in Carmichaels called lights from their paranormal investigations. They discussed Paranormal Pastries. Speakers for the event included Outsider living in ‘the holler’ and their encounters with fairies, portals Paranormal, Joey & Tonya Madia, Dave Spinks, Stan Gordon, and the Men in Black. Joey and Tonya also gave a second preand Steve Hummel. The event drew people from 11 counties sentation later that evening at the Hartley Inn about paranorin 3 states. Organizer Kevin Paul, author of Haunted Hills and mal investigation, while attendees enjoyed the all-you-can-eat Hollows: What Lurks in Greene County Pennsylvania, shares, dessert buffet.

“SWPA HauntedCon exceeded my expectations and proves After their presentation a short break was held for lunch that there is indeed sufficient regional interest to work with before the next presenter, during which attendees were able to our partnering organizations, paranormal investigators, and grab a bite to eat and spend time browsing the vendor’s wares vendors toward a larger event next year.”

– which included art, jewelry, pottery, books, clothing, and Kevin adds, “Many thanks to those attending, the vendors, more. It also offered the perfect opportunity to talk with the the speakers, the volunteers, those who helped with publicity, presenters one-on-one about their experiences.

Dave Spinks, from Fenwick, West Virginia, led the afterand the staff of the EQT Rec Center for making the first annual SWPA HauntedCon a success.”

Outside Paranormal, a local paranormal investigation group, Stan Gordon discusses sightings with Outsider Paranormal talks about their Dave Spinks signs a book for convenopened the a convention-goer. investigations. tion attendees. presenta-

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Vendors provided an assortmanet of unique items for purchase.

GreeneScene Magazine •

JUNE

2019

Scholarship Winners

The 29th Annual Educational Fund Scholarship is awawrded to Hannah Buttermore of Sycamore. Hannah is a graduating senior at Waynesburg Central High School and plans to pursue a degree in Psychology/ Sociology at either Waynesburg University or Washington & Jefferson. This scholarship is presented each year to a Greene County senior who plans to attend a college, university or trade school. In addition to the scholarship, Hannah will also receive a laptop courtesy of John Frownfelter, owner of PCsquared to use during her college career.

The Dr. Nancy I. Davis Memorial Leadership Scholarship is awarded to Carrington Teasdale of Rices Landing. Carrington is a graduating senior at Jefferson Morgan Jr. Sr. High School. She plans to pursue a degree in Nursing at West Virginia University in the fall. The scholarship was established to honor the memory of Dr. Nancy I. Davis who was an educator and advocate for education. Applicants were required to submit a narrative on how they have demonstrated leadership in education and a list of their local community involvement.

The Dr. Nancy I. Davis Memorial Scholarship for Educational Support is awarded to provide financial assistance to teachers in Greene County to help fund ad-

ditional projects and/or needs of their classroom.

Danielle Shrader, a 7th and 8th grade teacher in at Jefferson Morgan Jr. Sr. High School, was selected for her “Coding Across the Curriculum” project.

Her project will teach Hannah Buttermore Carrington Teasdale introductory computer coding to 100 students beginning in the fall of 2019.

The Town and Country Garden Club of Rices Landing, Scholarship is awarded to Joey Teacher Danielle Shrader and students.

Kurincak of Carmichaels Area High School Class.

He will receive a $1000 scholarship. Joseph ranks 4th in class of 61 graduating students and has a 3.982 GPA. Joseph is planning to attend The Pennsylvania State University in State College, PA. He is majoring in Environmental Systems Engineering and his career goal is Environmental Engineer. Joey has participated in several academic organizations including Envirothon, National Honor Carol Harrison (Scholarship Chair) and Society, Academic League, and Quarterbacks Joey Kurincak for Life.

Dock to Lock 5K S 1st (Run): Kelly Kiger of Waynesburg.

1st (Run): Eslie Sykes of Lawrence.

1st (Walk): Jane Naymick of Uniontown.

1st (Walk): Richard Respole of Bellaire, Oh.

JUNE 2019

• GreeneScene Magazine

ixty-seven runners and walkers turned of Waynesburg, 26:00; second place, Donna out for the annual Dock to Lock 5K Run/ Leretsis 34, of Carmichaels, 26:28; and third Walk on May 11, along the Greene River place, Lori Kubincanek, 53, of Fredericktown, 26:38.

Trail.

The top three overall winners in the 5K Prizes were given for the top three male and female runners and walkers overall, as walk were: Male: First place, Richard Respole, 67, well as the top three male and female runners of Bellaire, Ohio, 39:35; second place, Denand walkers in various age categories.

Proceeds from Dock to Lock benefit De- nic Crop, 66, of Uniontown, 39:36; and third partment of Recreation programs, such as the place, Ken Fortunato, 49, of Carmichaels, Summer Day Camp program, which offers 41:26.

Female: First place, Jane Naymick, 64, of free activities for county children ages 5 to 15.

FMI on Department of Recreation Uniontown, 40:49; second place, Linda Keller, programs, call 724-852-5323, or visit www. 66, of Waynesburg, 41:09; and third place, Dania Fortunato, 49, of Carmichaels, 41:25. co.greene.pa.us.

The top three overall winners in the 5K run were: Male: First place, Eslie Sykes, 58, of Lawrence, 21:08; second place, Vincent Cirota, 46, of Clarksville, 22:42; and third place, Darin Asklin, 36, of Rices Landing, 22:48.

Female: First Sixty-seven runners competed in the annual Dock to Lock place, Kelly Kiger, 41,

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Public Service Profile

by Lauren Bertovich

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2019 SENIOR GAMES

hatever type of fun appeals to you, you are sure to find it at this year’s Senior Games. This year’s unique theme will be “Peace, Love and Games” in recognition of the 50th’ anniversary of Woodstock. Local seniors are invited to participate in many different types of activities including both physical or non-physical types of games. Carmichaels American Legion Post 400 Band and Color Guard will perform the opening ceremony.

The Senior Games will be held at Carmichaels Area High School on June 18, 2019.

Any local senior, age 50 and up is invited to participate. Participants must either live in Greene, Fayette or Washington county or be a member of a Senior Citizens center within one of the three counties.

Competitions will include the 50-yard dash, the 1-mile walk, horse shoes, bocce, corn bag toss games, softball and football throws, putting, shuffleboard, basketball toss and the stationary bike. The day will also include Super Bingo.

Over 700 people are expected to attend: a mix of participants, vendors, sponsors and viewers. Booths will be available with food for purchase. There will also be a variety of entertainment and a health and wellness fair.

There is no fee for admission.

According to studies, there are many benefits brought about by seniors’ involvement in games of any sort. Playing any type of game is said to strengthen memory and ability to learn new information. Games that require teamwork increase trust and harmony between friends and may also enable new friendships to form. The act of playing a game is thought to make a person more joyful and optimistic.

Given all the good that comes about from such events, it is no wonder that Woodstock is the perfect theme this year. Nancy Riggle, from the SWPA Area Agency on Aging, says that everyone involved is very “enthusiastic.” She notes that the décor will be Woodstock-themed as well, offering such items as sunglasses, peace signs and tie-dye.

“There will be lots of fun surprises this year,” divulges Nancy.

The Senior Games event is in its 33rd year. While the event itself is local, it bounces between hosts in each of the three counties represented. This is the first time the event has been held in Carmichaels in 8 years.

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This event is so beloved that the tradition can carry through a family. There is currently a Senior Games participant whose father was a participant in the games himself years ago. The games were such a beloved memory to him that he actually asked to be buried with his Senior Games medals.

After the Senior Games have concluded, there will be an awards ceremony. The ceremony will be held on June 27, 2019 at Carmichaels Fire Department Banquet Hall.

The Senior Games would encourage anyone interested in co-sponsoring the event to contact Nancy Riggle at SWPA AAA at 724-852-1510. Interested parties may also contact Robin Youger at 724-4898080. Please make contact by June 14th at the latest.Those interested in participating in the Senior Games can pre-register for any events, or register at the door if space allows.

Registration for Shuffleboard is required by June 7th. Photos courtesy of Colleen Nelson from the 2015 Senior Games.

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Eileen & Bob Jones

When Eileen Thomas and Bob Jones got engaged in July 1980, they both agreed they didn’t want to get married when it was hot.

Because Eileen was teaching at the time, they decided to get married at Christmas time, when it wouldn’t be hot and Eileen would have extra time off.

December 20, 1980 arrived and it was anything but hot, with a high temperature of 18 degrees F. Brrr! It was nice and warm inside the Church of Christ in New Freeport for the ceremony, but outside by the pond was a different story. The photographer wanted a picture of the lovely couple by the beautiful, frozen over pond. The couple shivered with chattering teeth, while the bundled up photographer took their picture.

People often look at the wedding photo and remark on the waves – however, those aren’t waves but ice!

The reception of this icy wedding was held at the New Freeport Fire hall. That morning, the truck had been taken outside so that the area could be decorated. While everyone was enjoying the ceremony, one of the men came in and said they needed to be able to bring the truck back in and they need to “hustle things up.” “One of my friends remarked that she had never been to a reception where the fire truck took priority over

Glenda & Nathan Pierce

Glenda Adamson and Nathan Pierce were married at the Church in Ninevah next to Hopkins Store in the late afternoon of September 4th, 2010. At the time, Nathan, was heavily involved in GNCC racing, so the couple decided to have an ATV racing theme with checkered flag tablecloths, a box trailer card box hand built by my Nathan’s dad, a Yamaha YFZ450 Cake Topper with the bride pulling the groom off of it, and more.

The reception hall was held at the Morris Township Community Center, about a half-mile away from the church. Nathan and Glenda decided to break with tradition and get to the reception their way, by riding the 4-wheelers down the road to the reception instead of a getaway car. But it wasn’t without a hitch; they discovered that Glenda’s ATV had a flat tire, so Nathan had to plug the tire with only an hour to

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go before the ceremony! After the ceremony, it took about 4 people to help Glenda get on her ATV because of her dress, “But when we pulled into the reception and I revved my engine it made it all worth it,” shares Nathan.

The picture, taken by Eddie Hughes and Ben McMillen and eventually published in Dirt Wheels Magazine, definitely shows that it was worth it!

the wedding reception,” writes Eileen. Thirty-eight years later, Eileen and Bob still look back and laugh about their winter wedding.

Baby, it WAS cold outside!

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The Cookie Table A Pittsburgh-Area Tradition

Loaded down with delicious homemade cookies, the cookie table is a tasty tradition at southwestern Pennsylvania weddings. If you’re having a wedding in the area, you better plan to include a cookie table overflowing with cookies if you want to make sure your guests don’t start a mutiny.

And it’s not just a ‘Pittsburgh thing’ – variations can be found in West Virginia, Ohio, New York and even New Jersey. Although it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact date and location the cookie table started, its roots can be traced back to the 1930s, during the Great Depression. Italian, Greek, and Eastern European immigrants are often credited with bringing the tradition to the area. Immigrants in the area found themselves living in poverty, often while raising large families. The economical crisis of the Depression forced many families to sacrifice luxuries.

Elaborate wedding cakes were an expensive luxury that required ingredients in quantities that were out of most immigrant families’ budgets. Cookies, on the other

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hand, required similar ingredients but in much smaller quantities. Mothers, aunts, grandmas and in-laws could help share the cost by each baking batches of cookies.

Nowadays, family members still prepare the cookies, although some couples order their cookies from local bakeries. Cookie table favorites include ladylocks, pizelles, kolachke (see recipe on page 34), peanut butter blossoms, nut rolls, pesche con crema, thumbprint cookies, and more.

Whatever the reason and wherever you get them, cookie tables are an enduring tradition that holds a fond place in people’s hearts. No matter where your wedding is held – a fire hall, social club, barn, banquet hall, or wedding venue – the one thing guests at a southwestern PA wedding expect is a cookie table overflowing with a variety of delicious cookies. Don’t be the one to disappoint them, leading to years of being ‘that wedding without a cookie table.’ For advice on your cookie table, see page 34.

Photo courtesy of Brenda Ferek.

Photo courtesy Patti Bennett.

Photo courtesy of Peggy Pust.

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Photo courtesy of Hayley Scott.

Photo courtesy of Shawn Christopher.

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Photo courtesy of Abby Shipley.

Photo courtesy of Terry Cartier.

Photo courtesy of Andrea Funyak.

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Brittniy Herrod & Dylan Rhodes

Brittniy Herrod and her fiancé, Dyaln Rhodes, have lived in Greene County their whole lives. On July 4th, 2018 Dylan proposed to Brittniy during the fireworks for the 4th of July celebration at the Greene County Fairgrounds. Brittniy grew up on Sycamore and Dylain grew up in Waynesburg. They are currently living in Slippery Rock, PA, while Brittniy attends Slippery Rock University. They hope to move back to Greene County once she graduates in 2020. Until then, they come home most weekends to visit family and friends.

During the fireworks each year, they take a picture. They’ve been doing this since they first started dating and have a picture for each year they’ve dated. When the fireworks started in 2018, Dylan asked Brittniy to take a picture like they usually do. After taking their picture near the road, they were walking back to their watch spot when Dylan told Brittniy that he loved her so much and got down on one knee to propose, while the fireworks continued to go off in the background. Brittniy, completely surprised, said yes, witnessed by their families and close friends. “I bawled like a baby for an hour because I

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was so shocked,” shares Brittniy. Brittniy and Dylan plan to get married on September 19, 2020 in Rockwood, PA.

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Lakelyn & Kevin Denny Lakelyn and Kevin Denny met when they were students at Carmichaels Area High School. They started dating in 2011 when they were fifteen. The high school sweethearts were even named “cutest couple” in 2013.

While on a trip in North Carolina, Kevin proposed to Lakelyn.

While some might propose during sunset, Lakelyn loves that Kevin proposed in the moonlight. They were engaged while walking together on Atlantic Beach.

They chose another idyllic location for their wedding venue. White Covered Bridge in Gerard’s Fort was peaceful according to Lakelyn. The day went perfectly smoothly, although a train passing nearby made for an amusing moment during the service.

With the annual Covered Bridge Festival occurring every September, the grounds

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were in beautiful condition for the wedding on August 5th, 2017. The wedding ceremony was officiated by Lakelyn’s grandfather Christopher Sheldon Sr. Another “special highlight of our wedding was that my 14-year-old dog, Sparcal, was in attendance! I’ve had her since I was eight, so it was really important to me to have her by my side that day”, states Lakelyn.

Both Kevin and Lakelyn are originally from Carmichaels. They currently reside in Crucible. Kevin and Lakelyn both work at Chestnut Ridge Counseling. Kevin works as a security guard and Lakelyn is a teacher.

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Heather & Gennaro Bonaventura

Heather and Gennaro Bonaventura met in 2012 at Waynesburg University during their sophomore year.

Heather grew up showing horses and Gennaro knows how important horses are to her. He proposed to Heather on July 30, 2017 while horseback riding on the beach at Deep Hollow Ranch in Montauk, NY. They married in Waynesburg University’s Roberts Chapel. On August 1, 2018, the couple came full circle by marrying where they first met.

Their reception was held at Valley View Farm in Waynesburg, PA. The venue, owned

by Christy and Corbly Orndorff, is a working Belgian horse farm.

Heather has many good memories of

driving by the farm, “I always loved seeing the Belgians grazing in the fields and when they started hosting events in the barn, I knew that’s where I wanted to have our reception. It was perfect because of my love of horses and the proximity to the Chapel.”

Another highlight of the wedding was a special surprise by Heather’s parents. They booked a ride in a horse carriage. Says Heather, “It was my favorite part of our day because it allowed Gennaro and I time to relax and enjoy a quiet ride!”

Kayla & Kevin Brumley

Kayla Coss and Kevin Brumley met in high school at Waynesburg Central. They dated for about a year and then broke up. A few years later they both ended up at Slippery Rock University and while there, they started dating again. They got engaged on July 15, 2016 at Ogawa Japanese Restaurant in Morgantown - their favorite restaurant to get sushi.

They set the wedding date to October 6, 2018.

Kayla wanted their wedding to be outside and be in Greene County, since they were both born and raised here. They chose the Greene County Historical Society as their ceremony venue due to the beautiful scenery and the Greene County history it possesses. With the many backdrops avilable at the museum it was hard to choose one, but they finally chose to have the ceremony behind the library since it was secluded and naturally beautiful.

Their reception was held at the Jefferson Fire Hall. “We had Magic Moments transform the fire hall with tulle and lights and

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you couldn’t even tell it was a fire hall,” Kayala exclaims. “We had a a day we both will never forget!”

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Popular Wedding Venues

More than ever, couples are seeking unique sites that tell their story and showcase their personalities. Banquet halls have had the highest decrease in popularity, dropping 10% over 8 years—but they’re still leading the pack. Rustic locations have increased 12% in the same time period, while historic buildings are hot on their tail. Courtesy of The Knot’s 2017 Wedding Study.

Banquet Hall: 17% Farm/Barn/Ranch: 15% Historic Building: 14% Hotel/Resort: 12% Country Club: 10% Event Center: 9% Backyard/Garden: 8% Restaurant: 7%

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Hotel: 8% Resort: 5% Lake/Cabin: 4% Winery/Vineyard: 4% Beach: 4% Home: 4% Museum/Gallery: 3% Park: 3%

Religious Institution: 3% Loft/Rooftop: 3% Bed & Breakfast: 2% Public Garden: 2% Boat/Yacht: 1% University/College: 1% Legal Institution: 0%

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Frances & Bernhard Coneybeer Frances and Bernhard Coneybeer will be celebrating seventy-three years of marriage this September. The happy couple met in their early teens; Frances was only thirteen when she met Bernhard who was sixteen at the time. They were neighbors on Pine Street in Jefferson.

When asked about Bernhard’s proposal, Frances said they always “just knew” they would wind up together. They married on September 18th, 1947 at First Baptist Church in Morgantown, West Virginia.

Bernhard is a World War II veteran. Frances studied musical education at Waynesburg College School of Music. She went on to teach private lessons and was the pianist and organist of many local churches.

The Coneybeers have four children and “lots” of grandchildren and great-grandchildren according to Frances. She also mentioned how wonderful her childrens’ spouses are and how everyone should be “so lucky”. She says one of the best parts of her life is her children who are always very good and attentive to her and her husband.

Frances shares her life philosophy: “keep busy”, she says. She feels that people who stay busy will “keep their minds active”. She is most proud of her long and happy life and marriage with Bernhard. She says a marriage can survive many obstacles if you continue to work hard for it.

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Frances’ advice for a long, happy marriage: be more understanding, be less critical and don’t expect the impossible from your partner or yourself, just keep trying to do your best.

The Coneybeers look forward to celebrating Frances’ ninetieth birthday.

They still reside on Pine Street, where they bought a home not far from where they first met as teenage neighbors.

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Symbolic Meaning of Wedding Flowers • Anemone: Anemone flowers represent expectation, good luck and protection against evil. They’re unscented, primarily in season during the spring and late fall.

• Baby’s Breath: Baby’s breath symbolize innocence—and they’re majorly back in style as of late. They’re fairly inexpensive and in season year-round.

• Calla Lily: Calla lilies represent “magnificent beauty,” and are perfect and in season for spring and summer weddings.

• Carnation: Each color symbolizes something different. Pink represents boldness, red symbolizes love, and white indicates talent. They’re also inexpensive and in season year-round.

• Chrysanthemum: Wealth, abundance and truth are just a few of the words associated with the cost-efficient chrysanthemum.

• Cornflower: Cornflowers indicate prosperity and friendship—two things everyone hopes to follow after their wedding day. They’re most associated with a gorgeous blue hue, but they’re available in white and pink as well.

• Daffodil: The bright, springy daffodil represents happiness and kind regards. Spring brides, take note: They’re inexpensive when they’re in season.

• Dahlia: The dahlia is a symbol of a commitment and bond that lasts forever. The bold, bushy flower is elegant for summer or early fall weddings.

• Daisy: Casual daisies mean to “share one’s feelings,” so go ahead and arrange them around the altar for when you read your vows.

• Delphinium: Lightly fragrant delphiniums represent swiftness and lightness, and are beloved (and in season) for summer weddings.

• Freesia: Freesias have a fresh, fruity scent and represent “innocence.” Avoid using them as centerpieces due to their strong smell.

• Gardenia: Gorgeous gardenias represent purity and joy.

Fun fact: The gardenia scent is intoxicating.

• Hydrangea: Moderately priced, colorful hydrangeas represent both understanding and “heartfelt emotions.”

• Iris: Irises—which typically come in blue, purple or white—symbolize faith and wisdom, and have been strongly admired throughout history.

• Lilac: The meaning behind lilacs? “Love’s first emotions.”

Local lilacs are available in

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the spring, and imported French lilacs are available year-round.

Lily: The lily represents majesty, truth and honor. The fragrant flower is perfect (and in season) for summer weddings.

Lily of the Valley: Lily of the valley have a fresh, happy scent and they symbolize happiness. They’re also considered to be traditional marriage flowers.

Magnolia: Magnolias represent “love of nature” and are available mostly anywhere during the spring and summer seasons.

Orchid: Orchids are a symbol of beauty (and love, refinement, fertility and so on) and come in a variety of colors and sizes.

Peony: Peonies stand for love, happiness and ambition. They’re in season during late spring.

Rose: Roses are a symbol of romance, love and beauty, are surprisingly affordable and are available year-round.

Stephanotis: The name stephanotis literally means “marital happiness,” making this star-shaped, fragrant flower an obvious choice for weddings.

Sunflower: Sunflowers mean adoration and loyalty. Both the colors and the symbolism make them perfect additions to a rustic summer wedding.

Sweet Pea: An old-fashioned favorite, sweet peas represent “pleasure” and are fairly fragrant. Use them for a late spring or early summer (that’s when they’re in season) garden wedding.

Tulip: The ever-popular, stately tulip indicates love and passion. They can be found in a myriad of colors, but typically in pastel hues.

Zinnia: Affordable zinnias symbolize lasting affection, daily remembrance and also “thoughts of friends.”

Courtesy of The Knot

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G reen e Arti facts

by Matthew Cumberledge, GCHS Executive Director

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WEDDING GOWNS

e take our work very seriously here at GCHS; we house artifacts of great historical significance to the county, state and the nation, and we are also honored to be the repository of personal items that once belonged to area families.

What a wonderful day December 22nd 1917 must have been for Floyd Spragg Strosnider and his wife-to-be, Alice Lazear McCracken. The Waynesburg Republican covered the Wedding, stating: “At the home of the bride’s brother, Dr. Lazear McCracken, Smithfield, Pa., Saturday, December twenty-second, was solemnized the marriage of Miss Alice Lazear McCracken and Lieutenant Floyd Spragg Strosnider. The marriage service was read at three o’clock by the Rev. N. L. Brown, pastor of the First Methodist Episcopal church of Waynesburg, in the presence of about thirty guests, the immediate friends and relatives of the young couple.

The bride was gowned in white satin trimmed with Brussels lace and carried a bouquet of white roses. She wore a tulle veil, caught with orange blossoms. She was attended by Miss Blanche Swope, of Pittsburgh, as maid of honor, who wore a pink gown and carried a bouquet of pink roses, and was given in marriage by her brother, Dr. McCracken. The groom had as his best man, Lieutenant Morford Guiher, a cousin of the bride. The ring bearer was little Robert McCracken, who carried the ring in the heart of a rose. Rebecca Guiher, who wore a white lingerie dress with pink ribbons, was flower girl and strewed rose leaves in the pathway of the bridal party. Miss Mary Guiher, cousin of the bride, played the wedding march and during the ceremony. Following the marriage service a two course wedding dinner was served. Covers were laid for fifteen at the bride’s table, which was beautifully decorated with pink roses. The bride is a daughter of Dr. and Mrs. J. C. McCracken, of Wind Ridge, R. D., and is a most estimable young woman. She is a graduate of Waynesburg college and is popular in social circles. The groom is a son of Mr. and Mrs. S. K. Strosnider, of Waynesburg, R. D., and is a graduate of Waynesburg college in the class of 1916. He is a member of the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity. He was formerly principal of

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the Smithfield, Pa., high school. Last August he completed a course at the officers’ training camp at Ft. Niagara and was commissioned lieutenant. He has since been located at Camp Meade, Annapolis Junction, Md., where he and his bride will spend their honeymoon.

Among the guests from Waynesburg were S. K. Strosnider and son, Clarence, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Strosnider, Miss Mary Inghram and Rev. N. L. Brown. The wedding being a military one the rooms of the McCracken home were appropriately decorated with flags.”

Unfortunately, this picture-perfect love story ended tragically. Floyd initially served with Company K of the 10th PA Infantry, out of Waynesburg, and was later transferred to another unit. He was killed in action during World War 1 on September 27, 1918 in Argonne, Champagne-Ardenne, France. He is buried in Green Mount Cemetery in Waynesburg.

The sadness of this story is not to overwhelm the love that was shared between Floyd and his young wife Alice. After his death, many friends wrote of his bravery, courage and kind-heartedness; he also had a large impact on the community.

As for Alice, she never remarried, and undoubtedly treasured the wedding veil and bouquet shown here in the photo for the rest of her days, always clinging to the feelings shared with the love of her life who gave the full measure of devotion in the war that was to end all wars.

Wedding Trivia

• The trendsetter behind the Western Tradition of white wedding dresses was Queen Victoria herself. At her wedding in 1840, she wore a white dress and started a whole movement behind it. She also started the tradition of playing “Here Comes the Bride”.

• In Holland, a pine tree is planted outside the newlyweds’ home as a symbol of fertility and luck.

• The Vikings used to give a bride a cat as a wedding gift, because to them, no home was complete without a cat. Black cats were actually preferred, for they were lucky to the Vikings.

• In many Asian countries, brides will wear red or yellow on their wedding day, symbolizing good luck and a happy marriage.

• Many African American families practice “Jumping the Broom” at their weddings, which means going into married life together, originating in pre-civil war slavery culture.

• Hades was the only Greek God to have only one wife or lover; Persephone, goddess of the underworld.

• Peas are thrown at Czech newlyweds instead of rice.

• Amish women sew their own wedding dresses. Then, it’s customary that they wear them for the rest of their lives as their Sunday Best Dress to Church.

• In India , China, and Japan, many people wear white to funerals instead of weddings, due to the color’s association to death.

• Bachelor parties were started by the Romans.

Courtesy of The Knot

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Molly & JosephMatulewicz

Tiffany & Robert Reynolds

When Shane and Deanna Cole’s daughter Molly was preparing to get married, she was looking for the perfect place for her August 2017 wedding. When she couldn’t find exactly what she was looking for, Deanna and Shane, owners of Cole’s Greene Acres, decided to build it for her on their family farm.

After months of hard work, a beautiful wooden 20x40 ft. pavilion was erected complete with an open air dance floor, storage loft, and bandstand. Additional structures, like a fire pit, bandstand, and swing area were also built, making it the perfect place to host Molly’s wedding in style.

Tiffany Guthrie and Robert Reynolds were married January 3, 2005 by the Justice of the Peace at the Greene County Airport when she was 18 and he was 21. It’s the events leading up to their union that are really interesting. When Tiffany was little, her parents rented out a trailer in Charleroi. One day, the tenant brought a boy and a girl over to play with Tiffany, at her house. While playing, Tiffany ran over a steel pipe in her bare feet and pierced her left foot. The boy cried for help from Tiffany’s parents.

During middle school at Carmichaels, Tiffany made friends with Jennifer, who in-

troduced Tiffany to her brother Robert. Tiffany and Robert talked a little but did not begin to grow close until she was 16. During one of their conversations, they mentioned where they had lived in the past. To their surprise, Robert used to live in the trailer that her parents rented and was the young boy that had helped Tiffany when she was injured. Eventually, they began dating and were married.

“The fact that our paths had intertwined twice in our lives was enough to convince us it was meant to be,” Tiffany writes.

Wedding GreeneScene of the Past: War Bonds The war brought them together, through letters written to friends and family. When William Varesko, Robert Varesko, and Raymond Maurin returned from WWII, they decided to marry and would forever be woven into the fabric of each other’s lives. A triple wedding was planned for the couples - William Varesko & Avenell Belvins, Raymond Maurin & Evelyn Varesko, and Robert Varesko and Ann Maurin.

On September 28, 1946 the coulpes were married St. Mary’s in Crucible and the reception was held at the Varesko farm on Tin Can Hollow Rd. The reception would last three days, with dancing on a large wood square on the lawn. Over 100 chickens were butchered to provide food for the reception and the large number of guests. Now, that’s a party!

The wedding party was so big that part of the photographer’s studio is visible in their photo.

Evelyn & Raymond

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The Varesko farm where the wedding took place.

Avenell Blevins & William Varesko

Ann Maurin & Robert Varesko

Evelyn Varesko & Raymond Maurin

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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Pittsburgh, PA Permit No. 1219

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