November 2021 GreeneScene Community Magazine by GreeneScene Community Magazine / Direct Results

NOVEMBER 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

FEATURES 4

I LOVE THIS PLACE

GREENESCENE OF THE PAST

COUNTY CONVERSATIONS

SHINING THE LIGHT

PUBLIC SERVICE PROFILE

COOL AT SCHOOL

GOING GREENE

GREENE ARTIFACTS

GOOD NEWS IN GREENE

MESSAGE BOARD

HOMETOWN HERITAGE

50th Harvest Festival

Original Waynie Restorers RACG

2nd Sam 9

Waynesburg VFW

The Helping House

John Shanes - Medal of Honor Hostutler Family Band

Awards & acknowledgements within our community Community announcements and opportunities A snapshot of Greene County sports

EXTRAS

TURKEY ‘TOM’FOOTERY

HOSPITALITY AWARDS IN GREENE

SALVATION ARMY’S NEW DIRECTOR

GREENE COUNTY AT OLYMPICS

NEW VETERAN MEMORIAL IN BOBTOWN

TOGETHER WITH VETERANS

VETERAN ROLL CALL

VETERANS EVENTS

The Turkey Trot returns

Tourism announces first hospitality awards

Salvation Army in Waynesburg welcomes new director Greene resident competes in 2020 Tokyo Olympics A new memorial honoring Vietnam veterans is in progress Rural Suicide Prevention program comes to Greene Honoring those who served

List of Veterans’ Day events in Greene County

GreeneScene Community Magazine Receives PASR Media Award The Greene County Association School Retirees (GCASR) was pleased present the Pennsylvania Association School Retirees (PASR) Media Award GreeneScene Community Magazine. Lori Greene, President of the Greene County Chapter of PASR, nominated GreeneScene Community Magazine for this honor. The award was presented to Danielle Nyland, editor-in-chief of GreeneScene Community Magazine, at GCASR’s Fall Luncheon held on October 14, 2021 at the Cornerstone Ministry Center. This award is given to local news outlets who provide thorough and impactful coverage of PASR initiatives or events. The GreeneScene has worked with GCASR to honor educators during American Education Week, as well as covering GCASR’s fundraising

of to of to

events and scholarship winners. We at the GreeneScene are honored to have received this award!

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

I Love this P l ace

his year it’s been fun to look back half a century and give a shout out to fifty years of history-loving volunteers who have made Greene County Historical Society Museum a home-grown success. In 1971 the old county poor farm on Rolling Meadows Road, with its sprawling, 19th century outbuildings and stately brick home, built in the 1840s, then enlarged in the 1870s to house the county’s elderly, destitute and disabled, sat empty. The aging complex with its outdated living facilities closed in 1965 when the Curry Nursing Home opened across the road. The county reclaimed the property with no clear idea what to do with it until the spirit of historic preservation presented itself. That’s when Greene County Historical Society, lead by the indomitable Josephine Denny (1892-1991), petitioned for and was granted the rights of stewardship. Those first volunteers got busy cleaning and furnishing rooms in the high Victorian style that Miss Denny still remembered living, using donated furniture, musical instruments and other high end household items to bring back those good old days. A general store in back was stocked with the goods of 19th century living. Halls were filled with donated family heirlooms, military regalia, old photographs and displays of indigenous artifacts dug from the surrounding hills and cornfields by local “antiquarians” of the 19th century. GCHS Museum was born. That year, the first Harvest Festival was held to raise money and awareness for the history to be found here on the Western Frontier. The Bicentennial of 1976 was on the horizon, America was awakening to its Revolutionary roots and Greene County was on track to be part of that celebration. The next 49 years would see generations of volunteers, board members and museum directors serve the time it took to bring their own preservation projects to fruition – inspiring volunteers and writing grants to replace the roof, shore up foundations and other big ticket items such as creating a library in the old boiler building in the back yard. Log cabins got rescued and rebuilt and regional reenactors penciled in the Harvest Festival weekend for Civil War encampments and skirmishes, frontier settlements, indigenous villages and old school demonstrations of weaving, saw milling, printmaking and firing up old machinery, including the blacksmith forge. Local artisans sold handmade pottery, woodcrafts, and handicrafts and live music and theater presentations were there to inspire kids of all ages who came to experience history up close and personal. The museum became the place to donate local artifacts of every sort. The Waynesburg and Washington Railroad engine number 4, first on display at the Greene County Fairgrounds, was hauled over in 1971 and by 1978 the rusting engine was being restored by a first crew of volunteers. Perhaps the most rewarding sight to see this year was the almost completely refurbished “Old Waynie” being pushed back and forth on its brand new track, in and out of its brand new shed, ringing its bell and inviting festival-goers to climb aboard and see the world from the engineer’s seat. Will the old engine ever be under steam again? “Everybody’s asking that!” longtime train volunteer Jim Weinschenker said with a grin. “It will take a lot of work and won’t be cheap – the boiler has to be completely redone - but it’s something we plan on doing. If you want to help, let me know.” The museum basement, where food was traditionally served as an historical society fundraiser, has been repur-

HARVEST FESTIVAL

posed with collections of artifacts in the thick walled stone and brick rooms where mentally unstable residents were once relegated. This year, exhibitors set up tables in the hallway selling horror inspired art and books on paranormal happenings in the county, including here at the museum. The uneasy spirits of those who came to live and die here because they had nowhere else to go are said to still wander these rooms. The museum’s occasional invitational to explore here after hours with ghost hunter gear have become sellout events. Adding to the fun of seeing Phil Galing taking one of his Lippencott alpacas for a stroll this year was getting to meet Greene County’s newest working dog Hildie, hanging out in her booth beside the print shop with her people Gavin and Nancy Rush. Gavin, a lifelong bow and gun hunter said he stumbled upon the European heritage Hanoverian scent hound breed, fell in love and decided to go into the game tracking business with Hildie. Scent dogs are in high demand, especially with bow hunters, whose prey have a tendency to run far from the strike site, Gavin pointed out. That’s when a scent dog becomes a hunter’s best friend. The Rush family owns 400 acres of the old Andrews farm near Nineveh where sheep once grazed by the hundreds on miles of cleared pasture land. But times are changing. Gavin gave Hildie a pat as he handed me his card. “Our neighbor cuts some of our fields for hay but these days all we raise is deer. I’m here to let people know they can call me anytime.” Potters Jim and Linda Winegar had a potter’s wheel in their booth to demonstrate the craft that put Greensboro on the map 150 years ago. Next door to the hit and miss engine behind the train shed, blacksmith Gary Shriver custom bent door hooks for shoppers who browsed the hand cut antler buttons and hand forged hooks and jewelry for sale beside the forge. In the Confederate encampment, reenactor Chris Jones of Carlysle had all the fixings of a Civil War photographer set up and was making tintypes on the spot. Chris was born in Brave and got his start as a reenactor here at the festival 26 years ago as a drummer boy. Will he be back next year? You betcha. The first annual pie competition made its tasty debut in the barn and I got to sample a slice of Souix Harbargar’s first place apple pie. Her secret? Nothing fancy, just some home canned apple pie filling, sugar and cinnamon as you like it and a crust made with home rendered leaf lard and flour bound together with water, distilled vinegar and an egg. “Oh and I threw in a handful of raisins, thought that would be nice.” Museum director Matt Cumberledge, living his dream of a lifetime job since 2018, was everywhere, playing the part of a Confederate soldier on Saturday, then returning on Sunday in a W&W T-shirt to bake pepperoni rolls and pizza in the museum’s wood fired oven in the wall of the poor farm kitchen. I caught up with him in the railroad shed with Jim Weinschenker as visitors were leaving and reenactors and crafters were breaking camp and loading up. He stayed just long enough to show us the tintype he purchased from Chris, then was off again. When I finally found him relaxing by lantern light on Facebook a few nights later, I asked him for an ending to this article, and he was happy to oblige. “The 50th annual harvest festival was a huge success! I cannot thank our sponsors enough for making it happen and I’d like to give a huge shout-out to Janis Rohanna for working

By Colleen Nelson

Matt Cumberledge is the director of the museum.

Chris Jones and his Civil War photography set up made tintypes.

Sioux Harbargar’s apple pie took first place at the Harvest Festival.

day and night making sure everything came together well. It was wonderful to see so many people enjoying the museum and the grounds and having a good time with all of the activities. We hope to see everyone again next year.”

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

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G reen e Sce n e of the Pa st

eft to right: “Original Waynie Restorers” Tom Kenney, Larry Koehler, Dennis DePetro, Tim Sposato and Bob Brendel strike a pose by the “second No. 4” at the Greene County Historical Society on a bright September day in 1978. This happy crew has every reason to smile. The boiler of the old steam engine has been fired up for the first time since 1927 and by the next month Old Waynie will be huffing back and forth on its 100 feet of track at the 8th annual Harvest Festival, to the delight of all who come to see it. This photograph from the Sposato collection can be found in Jim Weinchenker’s book Waynesburg and Washington Rail Road – Second Number 4. It tells the story of the second steam engine that ran the rails from Waynesburg to Washington, Pa. When the line closed in 1933 this engine was not scrapped out, perhaps out of nostalgia as the age of steam gave way to diesel and narrow gauge railroads that served rural America gave way to trucks and busses. Greene County’s railroad past began on September 10, 1877, when track from Washington had been laid to West Union on the county line. The golden spike was driven on

November 1 at Buchanan Station in West Waynesburg and the first run of 28 miles was made between the two county seats. Daily runs started at 5:30 a.m. and passengers could expect to be in Washington in within the hour. For more than fifty years steam was the modern dream in Greene County. The last passenger ride was taken July 6, 1929 and the last freight train left the station in 1933. Second Number 4 was rediscovered and moved to the Greene County Fairgrounds in 1957, then to GCHS museum when it opened in 1971. When Tim Sposato and Brad Lester got to work on it in 1977 they found the old engine and its boiler surprisingly intact. After a through cleaning and machining new parts, replacing the wooden pilot, oiling bearings, sandblasting, painting and getting the boiler inspected, Old Waynie was under steam in time for the harvest festival of 1978. It fired up for the harvest festival of 1979, then retired for two years while the crew replaced all 102 boiler tubes. It was back on track in 1982 and chugged along until “Tim, Brad and Bob moved on and the last time second number 4 had fire in her belly was the annual fall festival in 1985.” It would be 15 years before Weinschenk-

er met Waynie while visiting the museum and was inspired to become part of a “new group of enthusiasts” who would “take notice of the once proud iron pony.” If you were at this year’s Harvest Festival, give a round of applause to Weinschenker, Dave Jones, and the rest of the new crew that has continued to do the work it takes to create a world class working museum exhibit that

By Colleen Nelson

will hopefully breathe fire and belch steam once more. Weinshenker’s second book is for sale at the museum gift shop but his first book Narrow Gauge in Southwestern Pennsylvania – the Waynesburg and Washington Rail Road has been sold out for years. I found one used copy online for $89.99. Better hurry. There’s only one left!

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

County Conversations DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING

REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF GREENE

G Turkey Tom’Foot’ery:

The Turkey Trot Returns

owlby’s annual Turkey Trot is flying in fast! The 5th Annual Wobble Gobble 1K and Turkey Trot Run/Walk 5K, benefitting the Eva K. Bowlby Library, will be held on Saturday, November 20, 2021. Bowlby Library is housed in a beautiful mansion in downtown Waynesburg, bequeathed to the community by Mrs. Eva K. Bowlby for use as the Children’s Library. In 1967 the library expanded its services to include an adult collection and the name was changed to the Eva K. Bowlby Public Library. The library is a focal point for the community and offers a wide variety of services. The event was created by Kelly Hardie, a previous board member for the library, to bring the community together for a day of fun while raising money for the library. The Turkey Trot was inspired by Steve Metzger’s children’s books about turkeys. Steve is a children’s book author from New York with over 70 books written for children. His books on turkeys - The Great Turkey Race, The Silly Turkey Party, and The Turkey Train - were a great inspiration for the race. The books are filled with joyous rhymes and humorous illustrations on the many turkey adventures. The Wobble Gobble 1K Children’s Fun Run is open to children 12 and under and begins at 9am. All registered children will receive a free book and a shirt. There are additional children’s activities that are free and include arts and crafts, a book reading, and turkeythemed activities. The 5K Walk begins at 9:15am, and the 5K Run and Pardoned Turkey begin at 9:30am. The adult 5K will award the top 3

NOVEMBER 2021

walker/runners in each category. There are 7 categories, 14 and under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60+. The cost for the children’s 1K is $15 and for the adult walk/run is $25. Everyone is encouraged to fill out a registration form and submit it by 10/31/21 to guarantee a t-shirt. Online registration is available at www.runsignup.com. Registration begins at 8:15am that day. The award ceremony will be held at 10:30 am near the gazebo. That evening a Ladies Night Out event will be held from 6 to 8pm. This special evening will include a craft provided by the Lumber Ladies (mason jar snowman wood craft) and many vendors to pamper yourself! Browse the newest styles of LuLaRoe, Lipsense, a jewelry vendor and nail wraps! Light refreshments & beverages will be available. There are 30 seats available; tickets are $35 each. Please call the library at 724.627.9776 FMI or to register for the event. Non-participants are encouraged to check out the Chinese and silent auction items that will be on display in the library. Come join the rest of the turkeys and support the wonderful services our local library provides!

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

reene County was once a hustling, bustling industrial center with multiple coal mines providing jobs, homes and security to its communities. With the closure of the mines many of these small coal towns suffered. Empty houses deteriorated and became community eyesores. These blighted homes need help through either rehabilitation or demolition and that’s where the Redevelopment Authority of the County of Greene (RACG) steps in to help. RACG assists in providing both living opportunities and growth to the Greene County community through economic development, community revitalization, affordable housing initiatives, and home ownership opportunities. Their efforts help stabilize housing stock in vulnerable communities, put properties back on the tax rolls, repurpose unused properties, and assist those dreaming of home ownership the chance to fulfill that often hard-to-reach wish. To assist in reducing blighted areas, RACG purchases homes or underutilized property in Greene County and then begin the long process of rehabilitating them. Once renovated, the homes are sold. “Our team is incredibly dedicated to helping with the blighted homes and other structures in our coal patch communities by rehabilitation or demolition,”

says Dave Calverio, the director of RACG. “Research shows that home values increase by 3% within a certain distance once the blighted structure is torn down.” For the last few years, RACG has had a strong focus on the town of Nemacolin. They’ve rehabilitated multiple homes in the town, and, through the demolition of homes past repair, have reduced community blight. One of the homes they’ve rehabbed, 29 Wood Street, is being leased to the Carmichaels Area School District and has become an after school center for local students. RACG is instrumental in serving our communities and, in partnership with Blueprints, helping potential first-time homeowners make the jump into home ownership. Their available homes can be either purchased outright if the potential buyer qualifies for a mortgage or purchased through a Land Installment Purchase Contract. FMI on the Redevelopment Authority of County of Greene program, call 724-8525306.

By Colleen Nelson

or the intrepid founders of 2nd Sam 9, music and crafts and emotional support for the move is on. those who attend. “We’re hoping to be open by mid“The biggest thing is it’s free,” Teresa November,” board member Teresa Roberts said. “We have one half time employee as a told me when we met up in the middle of program coordinator. Everyone else is a volanother working Saturday at St. George An- unteer.” glican Church at 100 Bonar Avenue, WaynesThe program continues to be “free from burg. She and husband Scott and daughter government funding and relies entirely upon Olivia were there with fellow board member the generous support of individuals, groups, Carol Young to get another few hours of mov- churches, organizations and corporate sponing in chores done. Last year during the pan- sors.” demic, when its dwindling number of older As enrollment grew, 2nd Sam 9 purparishioners couldn’t attend, the church re- chased a lot in West Waynesburg and drew up luctantly closed its doors. Ownership revert- plans to build a larger facility. But when the ed to the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh and pandemic doubled the cost of construction, this spring the church was put up for sale. board members decided to buy an existing “My prayers have always been that it building and make it their own. would continue to be used for some type of The group sold the property to WWJD ministry,” church deaconess Barbara McMil- and gave the Carpenters the building plans lan said. and their blessings. When St. George’s Church “We were blessed to get it,” Teresa ad- went on the market, it was a match made in mitted. 2nd Sam 9 is a faith based day pro- heaven. gram for adults with developmental disWhen I stopped by to see how the move abilities that she and Scott and other parents was coming along, the new handicapped acfounded in 2012. Their dream got a spiritual cessible bathroom to the left of the front jumpstart from Jim and Cathy Carpenter of doorway was almost finished and the baseWWJD ministries in West Waynesburg, Te- ment meeting room was stacked with boxes resa said. “We went to them for advice for of everything 2nd Sam 9, waiting to be unstarting a nonprofit and they allowed us to packed. use West Sides for weekend gatherings to see We made time to sit outside by the baseif there was an interest.” ment door and dream of things to come – picThere was. nics and games in the spacious back yard, a Using the Old Testament II Samuel coffee house run by 2nd Sam 9ers, an addichapter nine for its mission statement, 2nd tion added to the basement entrance to make Sam 9 was ready to emulate King David, who more room as enrollment grows. gave the disabled Mephibosheth a place of Although the church will be used for honor at his table. That vision struck a special programming during the week, Deacon Mcchord with other families who wanted their Millan’s prayers have a happy update. The disabled children to live an enriched life after chapel will become a mission church for St. high school both socially and spiritually. The John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Canonweekend gatherings grew. sburg when local Orthodox Church in AmerWhen West Sides had furnace trouble ica parishioners meet for weekend vespers that winter, the Carpenters rented the old and liturgy services. Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist church they owned on Third Street to the fledgling startup. For the next eight years, 2nd Sam 9 offered a three-day-a-week program, staffed by parents, educators and Bonar students from Waynesburg University. It was and is a cheerful environment filled with social activities, vocational opportunities, comL-R: Olivia, Teresa and Scott Roberts, Carol Young. munity outings,

Don’t Do It Alone!

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

Public Service Profile By Michelle Church

VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS

ccording to citymission.org, “research shows that veterans recover best when they are in the fellowship of other veterans,” and the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization offers that fellowship. When asked what the best part of being a VFW member, Terry Hoyle Sr. says it’s the camaraderie and how good it is to spend time with people who have “been through similar things.” Terry most recently served in the reserves from 1972 through 1978 and was stationed many places during that time. The Hoyle family has deep ties with both the VFW and the Auxiliary. Terry’s son, Terry Hoyle Jr., is the district commander. Waynesburg’s VFW Post 4793 and Auxiliary dedicate much of their time to helping their members and supporting the community. The VFW works with its members to help them get their benefits from the government and shows its support when something happens within their families. Recently, the VFW has even provided transportation to the hospital for their members’ doctor appointments. The members of the VFW are also strong supporters of the community. Their fundraising and grants support those in need of help. They make monthly donations to a homeless shelter in Washington County and the Auxiliary hosts monthly fundraisers. Verona Allman, a member of the Auxiliary, says, “Currently we are involved in the Angel Tree project, [and] we will host a Halloween party, open to the public, on the 30th of October. We have a craft show twice a year to raise money for veteran projects. This year, we raised $6000 and donated those proceeds to The Crabtree-Kovacicek Veterans House at the City Mission in Washington, PA.” The VFW and Auxiliary offer a lot to their community’s children as well. Scholarships, such as Patriot’s Pen, Patriotic Art, and Voice of Democracy, are offered to area students. During the fall, a veterans poster contest for grades Pre-K through 12 is held, with

winners at different grade levels. The poster encourages students to explore patriotic themes honoring veterans through art and creativity. The contest concludes at the end of October. There are also awards for Auxiliary members to help with education and a cancer grant is available. Members of the VFW and its Auxiliary participate in various veteran events and ceremonies in the area. Outside of the building, a monument stands, dedicated to the memory of those who made the supreme sacrifice and served their country in their time of need. Membership in the VFW and Auxiliary is connected to military service. To join the VFW, “a person must have served in the military in a foreign war, occupation or support of a foreign war. The veteran needs to have served during a designated time or received certain ribbons. To become a VFW Auxiliary member, you need to be a direct relative of the description above. Qualifying family is a grandparent, parent, sibling, spouse or step grandparent or parent,” Verona says. When talking with several members of the VFW and one member of the Auxiliary, a recurring theme can be felt: loyalty, honor, and community. They honor the veterans, they serve their community, and they support each other. The VFW and Auxiliary appreciate those willing to volunteer to help. Terry says that they are “more than happy” to have additional volunteers. Those interested in volunteering can come to the VFW office on Lincoln Street in Waynesburg and talk to them. FMI, visit the VFW’s website, vwf.org.

The ladies of the VFW Auxiliary made baskets for first responders.

NOVEMBER 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

Co o l at Sc h o o l

By Danielle Nyland

CARMICHAELS AREA HIGH SCHOOL

The Helping House

he pale-yellow house on Wood Street in Nemacolin is home to the first-ofits-kind program in the area. Inside, students from kindergarten through 12th grade can find a help for homework, to hang out, enjoy a warm dinner, and even wash their laundry. The Helping House began welcoming Carmichaels Area students midOctober and providing them with a service many desperately need. The Redevelopment Authority of The County of Greene contacted Carmichaels Superintendent Fred Morecraft about wanting to do something for the school district, the idea for something useful to both parents and students came to both his and Elementary Principal Marc Berry’s heads. A house was available that RACG was willing to lease to the district for $1/month. When the opportunity was presented to the administration and teachers, the vision for a homework house was born. When the idea for the homework house was suggested, teacher Traci Dobish jumped deeper into the idea. Traci, a fourth-grade learning support teacher at Carmichaels, used to run the after school program in Carmichaels when it first started and worked with that program for years. “I knew that the children needed more than just homework help,” Traci says. “They need someone to help with homework and social skills, a warm dinner, and more, and it need to encompass all ages of students.” With Traci’s help, the homework house evolved into The Helping House. From 3:30 to 6:30 Mondays through Thursdays, students can visit the house for homework help and tutoring or spend time socializing with friends while watching television, playing video or

board games, or just hanging out. At 4:30 each day, a hot dinner is served. The bathroom upstairs offers students a place to do their laundry or take a shower. Toiletries and personal hygiene products are also available for students. Two rooms upstairs, one for elementary students and the other for middle/high school students, offer educational and STEAM activities. “We hope to bring other organizations into the house that could do things like mock interviews with the older kids. We’re coordinating with a STEAM teacher and an art teacher to help with activities,” Traci says. Other teachers that will be helping at the house include Roberta Barr, ,Stephanie Mitchell, Maggie D’Antonio, and Tammie Dippolito. “Some kids might feel like they have to come for homework, but if they just want to come to get away from the house and relax, or watch tv, or talk to a teacher, they can come here. We want to be a safe haven, no questions asked. If they aren’t here for dinner at 4:30, and come at 5:30, we’re still going to offer them dinner. They can even come and get a dinner and take it home.” “I think it is such a great resource for the community. A big thing missing for children now is something to do in their community. And it will offer as many resources as the school can give,” Fred Morecraft says. “We want it to be a help for the community.” “We’re working closely with Yvonne Weaver from the Waynesburg University’s education department, and they want to continue sending students out to help at the house,” he adds. “It’s not only good for the kids but for the University students. To be able to give them that resource early on, before they even

Kindergarten student Kylo Nyland works with WU student Lexi Shandor at one of The Helping Houses’s activity stations.

student teach, I think will not only make our students better but will help them.” There are about six early childhood and special education students from Waynesburg University assisting at the house, and at least two of them will be there every day to help. The house is also utilizing volunteers from Waynesburg University’s Bonnar Scholar program. Lexi Shandor, one of the Waynesburg University students that will be at the house, says, “It’s the first of its kind in the tri-state area, and I think it will really help the students. I’m excited to see what happens.” The house is currently being funded through a two-year grant and is working with local businesses for donations for dinners and other items. They are also looking for donations of new toiletries, clothing, and other items that can be used at the house. They are also looking for someone that would be

interested in volunteering to help with landscaping. If you are interested in volunteers or donating, please reach out to Fred Morecraft at fmorecraft@carmarea.org or 724-9665045X4270.

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

Myths About Fostering Older Youth Myth 1: Teens are too old to need a family and will soon be out on their own. Most teens haven’t learned the necessary skills for them to live successfully on their own. Older youth need both the support and benefits of being part of a family and the ability to develop independence and life skills for adulthood. At any given time, 25 percent of teens who are in care, are in congregate care. This includes group homes and residential care facilities, where staff oversee their daily care. In these facilities, teens have an increased risk for becoming a runaway, a young parent, having low or failing grades and other adverse adult outcomes. This is why it is so important for them to have a loving and caring home that will help them learn invaluable lifelong skills along with having supportive adult(s) in their lives. When a person turns 18 years old they continue to benefit from positive connections with caring adults in their lives. No one outgrows a family. Myth 2: Foster families only want younger children. There are many families who welcome teens into their homes. Some families don’t want the responsibility of diapers, potty training or daycare. While teens can be challenging in their own way, they can also be amazing and grateful. Teens are also old enough to

NOVEMBER 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

talk about their wants and feelings. Parenting a teen is an opportunity for you to teach them lifelong skills and be that stable, caring adult in their lives. There is also an opportunity for you to share many firsts with them. The first day of high school, first sports game, getting their license, high school graduation and moving them to college. Your skills and life experience can prepare a young adult for independence and show them how to become a responsible adult Showing them stability, love and consistency can be invaluable to them. It can be rewarding to be a foster parent to a teen. It is important for adults to prepare teens to lead productive and successful adult lives when they leave their foster homes. Myth 3: Teens in foster care don’t want a family. Teens are like other children in foster care; not only do they want a family, they deserve a family. Once a person turns 18 years old, they continue to rely on caring adults in their lives for guidance, love and support. Teens in foster homes feel connected and have a sense of belonging. It provides a sense of stability for them. Teens can become successful with the right caring adult(s) in their lives. Myth 4: Teens from foster care are too hard to parent and have a lot of significant problems.

The majority of children in foster care, no matter their age, were placed in care because they experienced neglect or abuse. In almost all cases, it is the actions of their parents that led to them entering the foster care system. Teens may enter foster care due to a death in the family, drug addiction, parent mental illness, or an unsafe home environment. It is not because of something they have done. Teens can be challenging under the best of circumstances but teens in foster care often have a harder time. Like all other teens, what they really need — even if they don’t want to admit it — are consistent adults in their lives to provide structure, guidance, safety and love. Studies show when teens are in loving foster homes, they are more successful when entering adulthood. Unfortunately, a lack of teen foster homes means that many teens do not receive placement in a family home and are placed in group homes. However, there are thousands of stories of teens thriving with a little structure and encouragement, and their life trajectory changing forever. Remember that you are not in this alone. A team works with you and the teen. This includes a family case manager, a licensing worker, and the school district. At times, there could also be a therapist, medication manager and a crisis stabilizer.

G o in g G re e n e

JOHN SHANES - MEDAL OF HONOR

irginia and Pennsylvania were still next-door neighbors on August 15, 1862, when John Shanes left his family home on the border of these two states near the village of Brave to head to Warren, WV to enlist in Company K, of the 14th West Virginia Infantry of the Union Army. The counties in Virginia west of the Allegheny Mountains would remain loyal to the Union and would form a new state, West Virginia, on June 20, 1863. John was a young man of 18. His great grandfather, George Shanes, had settled on the land he grew up on around 1790 and had brought the family through the rough and tumble frontier times, surviving threats of Indian attacks, and seeing neighbors and friends perish in the border troubles that dominated the last two decades of the 18th century. John grew up around the Lantz, Wiley, and Cumberledge families, and through various branches of the family tree was related to all these people. When news of the rebellion reached the home of George Cumberledge, John’s friend and neighbor, George shot up out of his chair and declared “Union Forever!” He sent all his sons off to enlist in Company K of the 14th WV. Undoubtedly this played a role in John’s decision to enlist as many of George’s sons were close friends with John. Soon after enlisting, John headed north a few miles to Wheeling where he met up with the rest of the men from Company K of the 14th WV. Throughout the remainder of 1862 and 1863, very little of interest happened with the 14th WV Infantry. They provided various guard details throughout western and northern Virginia. By mid-1864, that changed. Between July 12 and 15 Company K marched with the 14th WV into the Shenandoah Valley where they suffered a loss to the Confederate Army at the Battle of Cool Spring on July 18, 1864. Company K then moved a short distance northwest to Stephenson’s Depot where they again met the confederates on July 20, 1864. At nine on the morning of July 20, Confederate skirmishers were spotted along Bunker Hill and, once their presence was reported to Union Command, they were fought down the turnpike into Stephenson’s Depot. At 11am, the Union Army had arrived in town and were met by Confederate artillery fire. The Confederate shells halted the advancement of the Union troops. As a result, the Union Army brought their heavy artillery and a protracted battle ensued. John Shanes, and Company K of the 14th WV were behind the Union artillery as the duel went on. Eventually, the infantry was brought up, and set out to attack the Confederate positions. As the infantry advanced, John charged ahead of his fellow troops and single handedly took out a Confederate field piece. For his actions, John was awarded the Medal of Honor, with the citation reading: “The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Private John Shanes, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 20 July 1864, while serving with Company K, 14th West Virginia Infantry, in action at Carter’s Farm, Virginia. Private Shanes charged upon a Confederate field piece in advance of his comrades and by his individual exertions silenced the piece.” The Confederate infantry had not yet arrived, but as the artillery battle ended, Confederate Infantry began forming

By Matthew Cumberledge

John Shanes’ grave in Lantz Cemetery in Wayne Twp.

John Shanes’ home in Brave at the turn of the century.

John Shanes, late 19th century photo.

a line in the nearby woods and fired heavy volleys into the Union Army. Unfortunately for the Confederates, the woods in which they were hiding formed a sharp angle to the turnpike upon which the Union infantry was advancing, leaving their left flank vulnerable to attack. The Union army hit their left flank hard, causing regiment after regiment to retreat, and the Confederate line began to fail. Soon the entire Confederate forces would be in a full retreat. The battle was over, and it spelled a resounding Union victory. Strategically little was gained, other than a boost of morale for the Union troops. Less than a week later, John Shanes and the 14th WV Infantry met the Confederate Army again at the Battle of Kernstown-Winchester. Unfortunately, the record goes a little dark here for John, and our research has not turned up many of the details of his actions here around Winchester on July 23 and 24, but we do know that he was missing in action throughout August of 1864, and by September was detached to Division HQ, and in October was detached and under medical care until the end of the war. The Union Army, and specifically the 14th WV infantry suffered significant losses during the Battle of Kernstown-Winchester. It is likely John was injured or briefly captured during the battle and spent the remainder of the war recovering. Hopefully, as we acquire access to John Shanes’ Civil War pension file, more information on his missing in action status will be discovered. John was discharged when Company K of the 14th WV

was mustered out of service on June 27, 1865. He would return home to the farm he grew up on, and on March 8, 1868, at the age of 24 he married Mary Ann Stiles. Eventually, he inherited the farm, and spent most of his later years very active in the small community he lived in. He advocated for his friends and neighbors as they filed for the Civil War pensions. John was a very articulate man with exceptional penmanship as can be seen in the documents he wrote supporting the claims of other men from Company K as they petitioned the federal government for compensation for their service. A simple farmer for most of his life, John had a huge impact on his brothers in arms when he disabled that field piece in a Virginia Valley well over a century and a half ago and was long remembered in his community and by his descendants for his selflessness and the care he showed for his fellow veterans well beyond his death on January 26, 1904. John is buried in the Lantz Cemetery in Wayne Township between the village of Brave and Blacksville, WV, with a simple stone marking his grave that reads: “John Shanes, 1844 – 1904, Priv. Co. K. 14th W. Va. Vol. Inf., Civil War, GAR.”

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

Gre e ne Art ifacts By Matthew Cumberledge, GCHS Executive Director

HOSTUTLER FAMILY BAND

he treasures at the Greene County Historical Society Museum are never ending, surprising even the staff with their uniqueness and relevance, not just to Greene County, but to the entire region. For November’s artifact, we take a glimpse at the types of entertainment the people of Greene County were fond of in the mid-to late-19th century. This is a late 19th century Lithograph of a small-time band, out of Fayette County, that toured the region in the years during the Civil War (1861 – 1865) through the 1870s and likely into the 1880s. Having read that, many of you may be asking why this is such an interesting item. There are a few reasons. Nearly everyone in Greene County would have heard of the Hostutlers. They commonly performed at weddings, celebrations, fairs, and just about any social event you could imagine. They are also interesting because the four siblings (Catherine, 1835-1890; Bartholomew, 1845-1908; Jesse Samuel, 1842-1923; and John Hostutler, 1829-1911) were all born blind! There is no indication in the research that the Hostutler family received any sort of formal education in music, though it was normal at the time for 19th century educators to instruct music in schools for the

blind. The Hostutler’s music was covered by newspapers in Greene, Washington, Fayette and Westmoreland counties throughout the last half of the 19th century and was wellreviewed. It’s rare to find any other group of local musicians of the era to receive as much high publicity as this quartet did. Remember that history is nothing more than our past, and the present and future are a continuation of that. History isn’t something that is beyond us. It is something tangible, something we all experience without knowing it in our lives every day. A century from now, researchers will be studying our time, learning about us, and wishing they had the chance to speak to one of us just to get the full picture of what life was like in 2021. By examining and learning about people like the Hostutlers, we’re getting a glimpse of what people, just like you and I, were like over a hundred years ago. The human story always has been, and always will be something worth preserving! All of us at the Greene County Historical Society Museum would like to thank everyone who helped to make our 50th Annual Harvest Festival the tremendous success that it was! Keep an eye out on our Facebook Page for upcoming presentations, and for our Opening Date for the 2022 season!

Grave Creek Mound in Moundsville, WV.

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

Tourism Announces Hospitality Awards

his year, the Tourist Promotion The Hospitality Volunteer of the Year Agency of Greene County intro- honors a volunteer who goes above and duced the Hospitality Awards for beyond normal volunteer responsibilities. Greene County to recognize their partners Nominees are judged by a committee on and their partner’s employees and volun- outstanding service to their place of volunteers for their dedication, service, and com- teering, community, and visitors. Nominees munity involvement. After taking nomina- for Volunteer of the Year included Lisa Beldtion, the nominees in each category were ing with various organizations, Jane Duncan judged by 13 individuals. Tourism partners with the White Covered Bridge Association, were also able to vote for the top event and and George ‘Bly’ Blystone with the W.A. partner. Categories, nominees, and winners Young & Sons Foundry and Machine Shop were as follows: and 50s Fest & Car Cruise (winner). Event of the Year recognizes an excepCongratulations to our local businesstional business or organization that exempli- es, events, their employees, and their volunfies the best of travel and tourism in Greene teers for the recognition of their hard work! County. Nominees for Event of the Year included the Carmichaels Covered Bridge, the Jacktown Fair, Aviation Days, Sounds of Summer the Rain Day Festival, the White Covered Bridge Festival, 50s Fest & Car Cruise, and the Greene County fair (winner). Partner of the Year recognizes an exceptional business or organization that exemplifies the best of travel and tourism in Greene County. NomiThistlethwaite Vineyards received the Partner of the Year nees for Partner of the Award. Year included Brady’s Roadhouse, Skyview Drive-In, Kiln to Table, The Ice Plant, 5 Kidz Kandy, Hilltop Packs Coffee Company, the Greene County Historical Society and Museum, Lippencott Alpacas, and Thistlethwaite Vineyards (winner). The Hospitality Employee of the Year honors an employee who The Greene County Fair received the Event of the Year award. goes above and beyond normal volunteer responsibilities. Nominees are judged by a committee on outstanding service to their place of volunteering, community, and visitors. Nominees for Employee of the Year included Fred McCon with Harden Family Farm, Donna Suba with Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham, and Brandon George Blystone received the Hospitality Volunteer of the Cooke with 5 Kidz Kandy Year award. (winner).

NOVEMBER 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

2021 Grasslands Evaluation Competition

Greene County Awarded $2.5 Million Grant

The Greene County Commissioners are excited to announce a $2.5 million Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Grant for increased broadband deployment. This award is part of a $46.4 million package supporting 57 projects across 184 coal-impacted counties through ARC’s POWER (Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization) Initiative. POWER targets federal resources to communities affected by job losses in coal mining, coal power plant operations, and coal-related supply chain industries. “In our continual search for funding to increase service, reliability, and speed of our broadband capabilities, this is the next step, and we are grateful for this opportunity. This project is ready to start and builds on our previous successful investment in broadband, we were just awaiting the funding,” said Commissioner Betsy McClure. Kinetic by Windstream is the industry partner and service provider of this new service capability and is contributing an additional $2.7 million in capital investment to the project bringing the total project cost to just over $5.2 million. This project will provide gigabit speed broadband access to more than 767 currently underserved or unserved houses in the Graysville, New Freeport and Spraggs exchanges. These exchanges cover geographic areas larger than traditionally considered in the defined area of these towns and include all or portions of six townships: Aleppo, Freeport, Gilmore, Perry, Springhill and Wayne. Approximately 105 miles of fiber-optic cable will be installed as well as the hardware and other technical requirements offering fiberto-the-prem service. This is the second major investment in broadband in Greene County in as many years. Following a comprehensive feasibility study, the Commissioners successfully

invested more than $3 million in broadband service improvements to serve more than 8,300 underserved and unserved households with a combination of CARES Act Funding and Windstream capital investments. Following that success, the Commissioners applied for and received this ARC funding. “We continue to make capital investments in the underserved and unserved areas of Greene County with details provided by the feasibility study we completed in early 2020. We continually seek additional funding sources and recently applied for nearly $8 million through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), United States Department of Commerce. These are competitive grant programs, not Greene County tax dollars. Funding is allocated for broadband or other infrastructure improvements and will be spent elsewhere if not in Greene County,” said Commissioner Mike Belding. NTIA’s BroadbandUSA program serves communities, industry and nonprofits that want to expand broadband infrastructure and promote digital inclusion. Should the application be successful, the approximately $8 million dollar grant will be paired with a Windstream investment of over $6 million to bring gigabit service to an additional 2,000 homes in Greene County. “Kinetic is proud to partner with Greene County to deliver fast, reliable broadband to residents and businesses,” said Susan Schraibman, President of State Operations. “Our unmatched speed, reliability and service allow families to navigate the internet safely from home with no lag times while they work, school or stream entertainment services. Businesses ranging from small shops to large enterprises can take advantage of the fiber-backed network to deploy solutions that make their companies more efficient and profitable.” FMI, call (724) 852-5210.

WCTV nominated for 6 Student Emmys

Waynesburg University’s student-operated television station, WCTV, recently received six nominations for University Production Awards from the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS). “It truly is an honor just to be nominated, but to receive six nominations in one year is a remarkable feat for WCTV, and I am very

proud of my students for this accomplishment,” said Melinda Roeder-Skrbin, instructor of communication. “We are competing against many other universities with much larger enrollments, but our student work is a testament to our drive and commitment to producing quality content.” The entries submitted and recognized represented a variety of content, including

Congratulations to the team from Carmichaels Area High School for placing second in the state at the 2021 Grasslands Evaluation Competition. Team members individually completed exams in four areas, including: Grassland Condition, Wildlife Habitat, Soil Evaluation, and Plant Identification. Team members include Brooke Watters, Sophia Zalar, Faith Willis, and Alex Lawrence. Spencer Conard contributed to the team victory by creating study materials. Each team member received a $250 scholarship for the second-place finish. The team

would like to especially thank the Greene County Conservation District for their help in funding the transportation to this event.

WCHS Students of the Month The students of the month for September are Alexis Mason and Ethan Maxwell. Alexis Mason is the daughter of David and Joy Mason of Waynesburg. Alexis has carried a 4.0 GPA into her senior year. At WCHS she has participated as a member of National Honor Society, the Spanish Club, the Art Club, Student Council, and the Drama Club. She has played the lead role in several of the Drama Club’s stage productions. She has earned classroom awards in math, science, English and history. Outside of school Ms. Mason attends the Mount Morris Gospel Tabernacle and works at Sorella’s Pizza. Alexis loves music. She is a member of the marching band where she plays the saxophone. She also plays in the pep band and the PMEA band. She has represented WCHS as a member of the PMEA All-State band and the 2021 WVU Honor Jazz Band. Her future plans are to study music education at WVU and participate in the band. Ethan Maxwell is the son of Kevin and Sally Maxwell of Waynesburg. He has earned a 4.0 GPA throughout high

school. While at WCHS Ethan has participated as a member of NHS, the Spanish Club, the creative writing club, student council, and the drama club. Ethan is active in student government. He was elected the president of the senior class. Mr. Maxwell also loves music. He is a member of the marching band, concert band, jazz ensemble, brass ensemble and founded the WCHS pep band. He has taken piano lessons for over 10 years. He is a world-class kazooist. Outside of school Ethan attends the First Presbyterian Church and their Crossroads youth group. As a member of the youth group he has led service projects to the Johnstown area. He also works with the Greene County United Way. Ethan also has an affinity for video creation. He has taken several public speaking and video editing courses from Penn State. Ethan is the creator of a successful Youtube channel. Ethan’s future plans are to attend college and major in communication.

coverage of local sports, businesses, politics, agriculture and tourism. The following entries were nominated: • News Report – “The Lippencott Alpacas Farm,” Rachel Pellegrino (reporter) • News Report – “Paying Positivity Forward,” Lindsey Stenger (reporter) • Long Form – “The Waynesburg Effect: Election Night 2020,” Chris Hulse (producer)

• Sports Story/Segment – “Baseball is Back,” Jack Hillgrove (reporter) • Talent – “Jack Hillgrove WCTV,” Jack Hillgrove (talent) • Talent – “Lindsey Stenger WCTV,” Lindsey Stenger (talent) Out of the six nominations, WCTV received one Student Emmy for its long-form production of “The Waynesburg Effect: Election Night 2020.

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

WU & Direct Results Partner to Open On-campus Store

WU Open House

Waynesburg University will host an open house event for prospective students Saturday, Nov. 20. The open house will offer students the opportunity to attend an activities fair, tour campus and enjoy lunch. Additional sessions will be held with admissions, academic departments, and financial aid. The open house will be held in person on Waynesburg’s campus. All protocols

of the Keep Waynesburg Well plan will be enforced. Details are available online at waynesburg.edu/keepwaynesburgwell. Waynesburg University offers more than 70 undergraduate and 15 graduate programs with an average class size of 15. Its nursing, counseling and criminal justice programs are continually ranked locally and nationally for academic excellence and value.

WINNERS Waynesburg University has partnered with a local company, Direct Results, to relocate, renovate and revamp its on-campus merchandise store, The Nest. The Nest celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony over the University’s homecoming weekend, on Saturday, Oct. 2, and is now open to the public at 84 Wayne Street. The Nest is under the management of Direct Results, which has a natural tie to the University through its owner, Pam Marisa, and her husband, Kent. Kent Marisa’s father is former Waynesburg men’s basketball coach and director of athletics Rudy Marisa, who spent 34 years as the head of the Yellow Jackets program, making it a national powerhouse in the 1980’s. “This partnership with Waynesburg University is a special one for us, given my father’s history,” Kent Marisa said. “We are excited to help execute a vision that builds pride in the University’s brand, creates fun gathering space for students and honors Rudy Marisa. We are also fortunate that one of his former students was so moved that he helped to make this happen for all.” The renovations of the campus store were made possible through a generous donation from a 1974 alumnus, Dennis Ellis. Ellis established his gift as a way to honor Rudy Marisa for his guidance, mentorship and coaching, both on and off the court. “I have been wanting to honor Rudy to show my gratitude for his support of myself and the others he has mentored over the years. This project has done that,” Ellis shared. “He is a leader in so many ways, not only as a coach and teacher, but also as a father,

NOVEMBER 2021

living a life of strength, perseverance and responsibility.” “We are so very fortunate to have the support and leadership from both the Marisas and Mr. Ellis to help us complete this project,” said Stacey Brodak, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Waynesburg University. “Their vision and implementation was outstanding in helping to create unique offerings that we believe our students will embrace, all in honor of Rudy Marisa, a beloved coach and mentor for WU.” An assortment of all-new Waynesburg University merchandise is available for purchase on the first floor of The Nest. The store also sells handmade items to help raise funds for various causes, such as bracelets made by women in the Dominican Republic as a part of the University’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Program or bowls and pens made from recycled plastic through the Fine Arts Program. The new location provides ample space for student activities, both indoors and out. In addition to the merchandise available on the first floor, the upper two levels of The Nest, called Rudy’s Place, offer games and gathering space for Waynesburg University students. Rudy’s Place is outfitted with video and arcade games, including Avengers and Star Wars pinball, dartboard, pop-ashot, bubble hockey, foosball table, etc., and two large screen televisions. In addition to the new store, Ellis’s gift also funded new window graphics at the Marisa Fieldhouse and a pop-up shop to make Waynesburg University branded items available off campus.

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

LOTTERY SCRATCH-OFFS - Frank Yarnevitch, Karen Hoy, Melissa Adams, Floretta Chambers

MUJIAZ PACK - Candy Williams

“HAGS” BOOK - Shirley Bradley

HAUNTED HILLS ESTATES - Alicia Evans, Carol Lynn Kolat, Richard Allen, Angela Schaurp, Kirsten Linderman, Deborah Penska, Kathy Ziats, Kylee Robinson, David Kennedy, Karri Davis

GREENESCENE CONTEST - Patricia Hopton knew that the answer to last month’s contest est could be found on Burnett Street in Carmichaels.

DUDA’S FARMS - Mary Corbett

Trick or Treat Times

Aleppo Twp. trick or treat from 6 to 8pm Oct. 31 Carmichaels Borough parade 1pm, trunk or treat at Skyview Drive-In 3 to 5pm Center Twp. trick or treat from 6 to 7pm Oct. 31 Clarksville Borough no available information Cumberland Twp. Twp. trick or treat 2-4pm Oct. 31 Dunkard Twp. trick or treat from 6 to 8pm Oct. 30 Franklin Twp. trick or treat from 5 to 7pm Oct. 31 Freeport Twp. Twp. no available information Gilmore Twp. Twp. trick or treat 6 to 8pm Oct. 31 Gray Twp. Twp. Halloween party 2 to 4pm Oct. 30 Greene Twp. trick or treat from 4:30 to 6:30pm Oct. 31 Greensboro Borough Borough trick or treat from 5 to 7pm Oct. 31 Jackson Twp. no available information Jefferson Borough & Twp. trick or treat from 6 to 8pm Oct. 31 Monongahela Twp. trick or treat from 6 to 8pm Oct. 31 Morgan Twp. trick or treat from 6 to 7:30pm Oct. 31 Morris Twp. trick or treat from 6 to 7pm Oct. 31 Perry Twp. trick or treat from 5 to 7pm Oct. 30 Rices Landing Borough Parade at 1pm Oct. 31, trick or treat follow 2 to 4pm Richhill Twp. trick or treat from 6 to 7pm Oct. 31 Springhill Twp. no available information Washington Twp. trunk or treat from 2 to 4pm at the Twp Park Oct. 30 Wayne Twp. Twp. no available information Waynesburg trick or treat from 5 to 7pm, parade to follow Oct. 31 Whitely Twp. no events *Times may change. Check with your township or borough for updates.

Legal Lessons With Seamon Law Offices

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE

here is a little-known VA non-service connected disability pension that can change the lives of our wartime veterans and their surviving spouses. It is known as the Aid & Attendance (“A&A”) pension. Most veterans are quick to tell me they have never qualified for any VA benefits or that they were not actually in a war zone. But neither of those reasons immediately preclude them from qualifying for this tax-free pension that helps defray the cost of caring for elderly veterans and their dependents who cannot care for themselves. This pension was established in 1952. In January of 2015, the VA proposed sweeping changes to the rules that affected a number of areas including net worth, asset transfers, medical expenses and income deductions. They met a lot of opposition due to inconsistencies and unfair provisions in the proposed changes. After some revisions, the final rules became effective October 18, 2018. The qualifications for the A&A pension are somewhat complicated and include various screening criteria. There are exceptions to each of these, so it may be helpful to work with your Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or a VA accredited attorney before deciding whether to apply or not. First, the claimant must have served at least 90 consecutive days of active duty with at least one of those days being during a wartime. Second, the claimant must be disabled or at least 65 years old. The disability did not have to be due to the veteran’s service. Third, the claimant’s unreimbursed medical

expenses must be significant in comparison to their income. Fourth, the claimant must have limited net worth (which includes the claimant’s assets and annual income). In some cases, unreimbursed medical expenses may be deducted from the annual income to reduce net worth. In 2018, the net worth limit is $130,773 including assets and income. A goal of the revised rule is to restrict asset transfers such as gifts, selling assets for less than fair market value, and the purchase of annuities. If a claimant has reduced their excessive net worth inappropriately in the three years prior to their application, they could incur a penalty of up to five years. In contrast, the revised rules expanded covered medical and non-medical expenses that can be considered for qualification. For example, the rules now include assistance with ambulating within the home or living area. They also cover independent living activities such as shopping, food preparation, housekeeping, managing finances, handling medications, and transportation for medical and non-medical purposes. Permissible medical expenses include those deemed medically necessary or that improve a disabled person’s functioning such as in-home care, medical supplies, and adaptive equipment. Premiums for health insurance and long-term care insurance may also be considered.

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

Salvation Army Welcomes New Director

he Greene County Salvation Army welcomes its new director, Bonnie Davis, as they plan for the 2021 winter season. Bonnie, a native Greene County resident, worked with the county a few months back, with community development and elections. She is a married mother of three and applied for the director position hoping for an opportunity to give back to the community she has long been a part of. “It’s my home,” Bonnie says. “It’s family, friends, people I’ve never met in my life, but I can relate to [them]. Something I’ve always wanted to do was help, and this is my way … ‘doing the most good’ wherever we can.” Bonnie stresses the impact that the Salvation Army has on communities, which helps inspire her motivation to serve. She refers to the tiny corner the building is located on and how it is “hidden away” on Blackberry Alley and W 1st St. on the edge of South Fork Tenmile Creek. The social services and community programs that the Salvation Army provides, according to Bonnie, are incredibly helpful. “I’ve been in situations where I’ve needed help, and [it] was there for me over 20 years ago. I’ve prayed on it, and I want to give back. I really do, and I love it.”

NOVEMBER 2021

Among these community services, the Salvation Army will be having an angel tree, where you can “adopt a child” by taking a tag off of the angel tree and giving a gift. Anybody interested can contact the Salvation Army to have a tree set up at their own workplace. Bonnie encourages anybody to participate in the angel tree charity this year. Individuals, businesses, organizations, and more are able to participate and have an angel tree of their own in accordance with the Salvation Army. Kettle season is coming up soon as Christmas slowly approaches. The Salvation Army is always in need of bell ringers, Bonnie says. The iconic Salvation Army kettle is a true sign that the season of giving is here. Bonnie emphasizes the need for volunteers at the Salvation Army with this season of giving just around the corner. Other services that the Salvation Army provides include emergency food boxes, the “Birthday Club” for children up to age 12 to pick out a gift, “Mommy” or “Daddy” gift baskets with infant care supplies, Dollar Energy Fund assistance with mortgage/rent and utility costs and of course the warehouse which is open for people to take around 10-20 items per week. “We’re here, and we are doing the best

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

we can to help,” Bonnie exclaimed. “Reach out to us!” Anybody in need of help or assistance can contact the Salvation Army by either calling them at (724) 852-1479, emailing bonniej. davis@use.salvationarmy.org, or reaching out on Facebook Messenger. Visit facebook.com/

By Lachlan Loudon

greenesalvationarmy to stay up to date with future events or volunteer opportunities. There is a constant need for volunteers, and the mission of the Salvation Army stays alive if people are there to help.

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

Sponsored by

Intentional Walks By Bret Moore

Keep Calm and Bowl On

ntil 2018, the bowling industry had been in a precipitous decline. However, it is making a comeback. Over 70 million Americans bowled last year. The number of alleys increased over 15% nationwide since the industry’s low point. The increase is due in part to a shift in the demographic market from traditionally blue-collar to white-collar participants drawn by a nightclub atmosphere. In Greene County, bowling reached its zenith of popularity in the 1960s. In addition to the leagues run at each alley, the best bowlers represented their lanes in the seventeam Fayette/Greene Bowling League. Both Waynesburg’s Triangle Lanes and Jefferson’s Sahady Lanes sent teams to compete in that league and area tournaments. The best bowler in the area was the owner of Triangle Lanes, Fred Hughes. Hughes, a former football star at Waynesburg High School and the University of Louisville, had several 299 games during league competitions. His team would travel to tournaments around the country.

Sherm Roberts of Myrtle’s Townhouse was also considered one of the better bowlers in the area with a high recorded game of 289. In 1969, local businessman Jim Rush rolled the first 300 game at Triangle Lanes. During the late sixties, Triangle Lanes had the following leagues: Monday Night Men’s, Tuesday Afternoon Tea, Equitable Gas, Classic, Civic, Community Women’s, and Saturday Morning Junior. Each team in those leagues were fully sponsored and the results were reported daily in the Democrat- Messenger. Triangle Lanes was originally in “Dotysburg” near the current location of Direct Results before it moved out Route 21 to Rolling Meadows at the end of the decade. In addition, Carmichaels had lanes at a facility called the Arena. There were eightteam leagues Monday through Friday. At the beginning of the decade, Nemacolin, Carmichaels and Crucible all had teams in the MidMon Valley Duck Pin League. In September of 1959, they formed the 10 pin Southern Greene League. The eight-lane Carmichaels Bowling Alley opened on August 6, 1960. It was at the site that now houses the Carmichaels VFW. (Photo courtesy of Carmichaels Area Historical Society) Early in the decade, Wa y n e s b u r g had a second smaller alley called Howard’s

The Smash 14U softball team placed third in the Jacket Fall Classic hosted by Waynesburg University. The team is coached by Hethe McCollum and Lou Giachetti. Lanes, which had a 10-team league. In 1966, that facility was called Thomas Lanes and had a league that consisted of six teams: PepsiCola, Waynesburg Moose, American Legion, Jimmie’s Lunch, Joe’s Restaurant and Thomas Bowl. The alley was located in the basement of what is now called the Victoria Square Building (Across the street from the Waynesburg Borough Police Station). It shared the space with Roadie’s Pool Hall. According to local educator Mark McCurdy, who was employed as a pin boy at the establishment in his youth, both the pin-setting and ball return were completely manual. The sport’s popularity continued into the 1970s. In 1972, Ron Lemley of Waynesburg rolled a 299 in Classic League competition at Triangle Lanes. After eleven straight strikes, his final throw left one pin teetering before it finally remained standing. Two years

later, Jim Rathburn of Carmichaels competed in both the King Coal and Big East Leagues and earned his Professional Bowling Association card. He carried a 190 average and bowled the first perfect 300 game at the Carmichaels Bowling Arena. That same year, Leona Hennen of Carmichaels maintained a 150 average in the United Methodist Church League at Carmichaels Bowling Arena at 79 years of age. The Sahady Lanes team from Jefferson won the Boys Pennsylvania State Junior Bowling Championship (13-15 years old). Earnie Sahady, Sr., a teacher at JeffersonMorgan and owner of the alley, coached both the boys’ and girls’ teams from the establishment. The boys won the title in Lancaster by a tremendous 184 pin margin. A total of 3,400 youth teams had competed in the local, regional and state tournaments.

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

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Situational Awareness

his month I’d like to discuss situational awareness. In simple terms, being aware of what’s going on around you. This concept is important all the time, but especially when carrying a weapon. Surprisingly enough, many folks live out their life without giving much thought as to what is taking place in the world around them. In this technological world we live in, many people fail to look up from their phones for more than an instant and before they go back to their screens. They do not know what is occurring in close proximity to them. Colonel Jeff Cooper of Gunsite fame developed a set of color codings that go along with varying states of awareness. I’d like to share them with you and provide some food for thought as you continue (or just begin) your concealed carry journey. CONDITION WHITE - a state of complete unawareness. Think sleeping; completely oblivious to one’s surroundings. CONDITION YELLOW - a state of relaxed awareness. There is no threat in one’s immediate environment, but one is aware that danger is always a possibility. Tuned in. CONDITION ORANGE - a heightened state of awareness in which one has identified a possible, potential, or existing threat in the immediate environment. In orange, you are beginning to formulate a plan to deal with said threat. ORANGE is mentally more taxing than YELLOW. Think scenarios, if/then. This is why we train, so that when we move to condition red. CONDITION RED - the action phase and results in engaging a threat, retreating, or possibly taking cover in a position of tactical advantage. Condition RED is difficult to maintain for long periods of time. It requires complete focus on the threat at hand and is mentally exhausting. In a nutshell, if you are carrying or employing a weapon for your personal safety and security, then you need to be thinking and living in CONDITION YELLOW. This is not a state of paranoia but rather

a constant state of casual observance. Learning to live in yellow does not happen overnight. One learns how to observe the world around him or herself and recognize potential threats as they arise. Using one’s basic common sense and powers of observation will go a long way in helping to keep you safe no matter the situation. If something looks out of place, pay attention to it. The fluctuation from yellow to orange and back to yellow is simply the process of recognizing, evaluating, and dealing with the possibility of a potential or existing threat. If this concept interests you, I encourage you to delve further into the color codes. A recommended piece of literature I would offer is the short book (75 pages) by Colonel Jeff Cooper entitled Principles of Personal Defense. While incredibly short, it is powerful and insightful for those practicing concealed carry or home defense with a firearm. Good luck and good reading! I’d like to close this month with a huge “thank you” to all those who attended my author talk at Flenniken Public Library, October 7. I released my first book, Friendship Afield, A Collection of Short Stories and Snapshots. I was overwhelmed with the outpouring of support from friends, family, colleagues, and the community at large. Fifty people attended the night’s festivities. Background on the book and the writing process were discussed followed by a cookie and coffee social. Thanks to Flenniken Library for hosting a very special night. Copies are $20 and are available by contacting me at my email below. I hope you enjoy the read!

Southwestern Pennsylvania Area Agency on Aging NOVEMBER 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

CARMICHAELS CHRONICLES

he Carmichaels Mighty Mikes baseball team put together an incredible run from 2000-2010. During that eleven-year span, the Mikes had a record of 176 wins and 46 losses (a .793 winning percentage). The program won seven conference titles in that period (eighteen

section titles in program history). They also won three WPIAL Championships in that eleven-year span, making it to the finals five times in seven years. The Mikes qualified for the WPIAL tournament ten times and the PIAA tournament six times from 2000-2010.

BOY OF THE MONTH

Trenton Carter is the son of Samantha and Mike Carter. The senior is the starting quarterback for the Mikes. He also participates in baseball, eSports, and student council. Trenton is the treasurer of both the senior standing committee and National Honor Society. He regularly volunteers in his community and maintains a 4.0+ grade point average. Outside of school, Trenton likes to hunt, fish, and spend time with his family and friends. His future plans include attending college and playing sports.

Aliyah Thomas is the daughter of Emili Thomas of Carmichaels. Aliyah is a senior and has been a member of the Lady Mikes and Quest travel volleyball teams for the past six years. She is a member of the National Honor Society and has participated in Big Brothers Big Sisters, cheerleading and drama club. After graduation, she plans to attend West Virginia University. In her free time, Aliyah enjoys dancing, skiing, water sports and spending time with her family and friends.

GIRL OF THE MONTH

Carmichaels alumnae Emma Hyatt, is a freshman on the Waynesburg University volleyball team.

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BOY OF THE MONTH

RAIDER RECALL

espite the fact coach Lou Giachetti’s team lost eight starters from the previous year, the Raiders went on to have the most successful season in the program’s history in 2005. They rode the arm of Autumn Minor all the way to the WPIAL Championship. In the first round, they beat a heavily favored Deer Lakes team 4-3 after coming from two runs down. It was the first of four successive one-run games on the way to the championship. In the second round, they faced top seeded, five-time defending WPIAL Champion Sto-Rox. They rallied in the sixth to win 3-2 in an historic upset. Greensburg Central

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Catholic proved to be a tough obstacle in the semi-finals but fell 1-0. Section rival Wash High awaited them in the finals, which were held at California University of PA. Once again, the magic held as the Raiders put together a last inning two-run rally to win 3-2. In the PIAA playoffs, the team beat Brookville 3-2 in 13 innings for their fifth straight one-run victory. Unfortunately, the run ended against South Park in the following round. Pitcher Autumn Minor posted a 19-4 record that season with five shutouts, a no-hitter, and five one-hitters. In 155 innings, she struck out 147 and walked only eight batters. Offensively, freshman Alyson Johnson batted .435 with 13 extra-base hits.

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Evan Davis is the son of Larry and Becky Davis of Waynesburg. He is a three-year letterman in golf and was named team Captain this season. He also qualified for the WPIAL Individual Finals and has recorded two holes-in-one at Rohanna’s Golf Course. At school, he maintains a 4.0 GPA and is a member of the Engineering Club, Spanish Club, National Honor Society and Future Business Leaders of America. He also works at Scotty’s Pizza and enjoys fishing and camping in his spare time. His plans include attending college next year.

Addison Blair is the daughter of Charlie and Natalie Blair of Waynesburg. She is a member of the basketball and cross country teams. She also rides for Seldom Seen Farm and recently competed in the World Championship Horse Show. Addison maintains a 4.0 GPA and serves as treasurer of Alpha Beta. Her activities include student council, Spanish Club, Alpha Beta and helping with youth basketball. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends and traveling to new places.

GIRL OF THE MONTH

MAPLE MEMORIES

n 2017, Mapletown’s Dylan Rush, gained 524 of his career 5,762 yards in one evening against Avella. He broke the WPIAL single game record that night in the 48-32 victory. He ended his career in third place on Greene County’s

all-time rushing list. Only six individuals have entered the County’s 4,000yard club. Rush trails only Pioneers Ben Jackson and Rodney Wilson. The other three members are fellow Maple Derek Bochna, Carmichaels’ Rocky Doman and Waynesburg’s Lanfer Simpson.

BOY OF THE MONTH

Levi Howard is the son of Robert and Kristi Howard of Garards Fort. As a junior, he has lettered in football the past two years. He is a member of the MHS Ski Club and enjoys hunting and fishing in his spare time. Levi is a welding student at GCCTC and plans to further his welding education after graduation.

Macee Cree is the daughter of Jeff and Marsha Cree of Garards Fort. She is a four-year starter for the Lady Maples’ volleyball team and has been named both All-Section and All-County for the past three years. She has also received those honors as a member of the Maples’ softball team. Macee is the senior class president, and is a member of the Envirothon and Interact Clubs. She is also a member of the National Honor Society and maintains a 4.58 GPA in AP and Honors classes.

GIRL OF THE MONTH

COUNTY FOOTBALL RACES Player L. Stevenson (M) C. Brady (WG) B. Woods (WC) C. Wise (WG) A.J. Vanatta (M) C. Jones (JM)

RUSHING

Long TDs 158 1146 63 17 98 899 62 13 136 867 89 8 59 428 68 6 38 248 17 2 40 243 66 2 J. Stephenson (WC) 39 210 28 3 H. Hamilton (WG) 31 196 42 2 J. Gilbert (JM) 52 137 15 1 B. Whitlach (WG) 18 113 42 2

Attempts Yards

Reported as of 10/11/21. Carmichaels does not report stats to Hometown Heritage or Max Preps.

PASSING

Player Attempts Completions Yards TDs W. Whipkey (WG) 63 33 702 9 C. Jones (JM) 81 38 662 7 J. Stephenson (WC) 105 44 530 5 A.J. Vanata (M) 54 22 229 3

RECEIVING

(at least 100 yards) Player C. Fowler (JM) N. Orndoff (WG) T. Zupper (WC) N. Jones (WC) D. Lucey (WG) C. Bisceglia (JM) L. Stevenson (M) B. Evans(M)

Completions Yards

14 10 16 10 7 9 9 8

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360 353 237 160 152 139 104 103

TDs 5 5 3 0 2 0 0 3

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GREENE COUNTY TRAIL RUN RACE RESULTS On Saturday, October 9, runners and walkers gathered at the Greene River Trail in Waynesburg for the Greene County Trail Run (previously known as the Dock to Lock 5K). The event would like to thank their sponsors: Community Bank, First Federal Savings and Loan, Hoy’s Construction, James Farrell Post #330 American Legion, Waynesburg University, Rices Landing Fire Department, Rices Landing Borough, Waynesburg Milling, and Baily Insurance.

RUN

Male Open Winners 1st - Richard Durbin of Claysville, PA (21:03) 2nd - Bob Pikelis of Canonsburg, PA (21:55) 3rd - Richard Sandala of Venetia, PA (22:24)

WALK

Male Open Winner 1st - Richard Respole of Bellaire, OF (40:32) 2nd - Michael Journic of Carmichaels, PA (44:08) 3rd - George Demchak of Clarksville, PA (44:09) Female Open Winners 1st - Kim Grimes of Holbrook, PA (38:49) 2nd - Jane Naymick of Uniontown, PA (39:29) 3rd - Linda Keller of Waynesburg, PA (43:54)

Female Open Winners 1st - Michelle Haines of Uniontown, PA (22:04) 2nd - Shannon Adamson of Carmichaels, PA (28:36) 3rd - Tracey Wade of Carmichaels, PA (30:02)

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SeniorLIFEPA.com

COUNTY FOOTBALL RACES SCORING

RETRO ROCKET

he Rockets had a great deal of suc-

RECEIVING TOUCHDOWNS (at least 10 points) 6 N. Orndoff (WG) 205 L. Stevenson (M) Player Points TDs XP XP2 FG T. Zupper (WC) 132 B. Woods (WC) Player 5 Points TDs XP XP2 FG L. Stevenson (M) (JM) 131 19 15 1 C. Fowler 88 A.J. 0Vanatta (M)J. Stephenson (WC) 2 18 3 0 0 0 C. BradyB. (WG) 78 13 0 0 0 T. Zupper (WC) Evans (M) 55 N. Orndoff (WG) 2 18 3 0 0 0 B. WoodsL.(WC) 54 9 0 0 0 C. Jones (JM) Stevenson (M) 46 T. Zupper (WC) 2 16 2 0 2 0 K. Thompson (WG)39 0 30 0 N. Jones (WC) 41 Tied3 with one: A.J. C. Vanata Fowler(M) and B.14 2 0 1 0 C. Wise (WG) 38 6 0 1 0 (WG) N. Kirby (WC) 39 Barnhart (JM), W. C. Whipkey Brady (WG), J.12 0 0 0 0 C. Fowler (JM) 38 5 0 1 0 B. Whitlach (WG) 12 0 0 0 0 Stephenson and N. Kirby (WC) N. Orndoff (WG) 30 5 0 0 0 D. Lucey (WG) 12 0 0 0 0 H. Hamilton (WG) 24 4 0 0 0 K. Wise (JM) 12 2 0 0 0 B. Evans (M) 24 4 0 0 0 C. Menear (M) 10 1 0 2 0 D. Huffman (WC) 24 4 0 0 0

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• GreeneScene Community Magazine

cess on the hardwood in the early 2000s. Calvin Wilson (1,684) and Tommy Curtis (1,008) both joined the 1,000 Point Club in 2000. Tyrone Wilson joined them the following year with 1,056 points. The team also had success during those years, winning section titles in both 2000 and 2001. The 2000 team received a first-round bye and defeated Serra Catholic in the quarterfinals 53-48. They lost a tough 53-49 game to Cornell in the semi-finals but qualified for the PIAA Tournament. After defeating Forbes Road 6547 in the opening round, they fell to eventual state champion Kennedy Christian.

BOY OF THE MONTH

PIONEER PAST

he Pioneers had a great deal of individual success on the track in the 1970s. Arnold Wilson won the WPIAL High Jump in both 1971 and 1972. The winning jump his senior year was 6’ 2 ½”. That year, he also won the WPIAL 100 Yard Dash with a time of 9.9 seconds. (He set the school record in that event his junior year when he ran a 9.8). He went on to finish 4th in the 100 at the PIAA State Meet with a 10.1. In 1973, Jim Jarvis qualified for the PIAA Meet in the shotput. He also broke the Greene County Meet record with a throw of 49’1.5”. Kevin Wilson won the 100-

Yard Dash at that meet with a 10.9 The following season, the 880 Relay team of Kevin Wilson, Jamie Campbell, Rick Rahm and Dave Harris won the Tri-County Meet at Waynesburg and made it to the second round of WPIAL Qualifiers. They set a new school record of 1:33.2 and qualified for States. In 1977, the Mile Relay team of Dave Whipkey, Rick Lough, Scott Orndoff and Ron King set a new school record (3:28.8) and placed 10th at the PIAA Meet. King set the school record in the 880 with a time of 2:00.5. In addition, he won the WPIAL Championship in the Mile Run and finished 8th at States.

Corey Wise is the son of Lynn and Ginger Wise of New Freeport. The senior plays football, basketball, and baseball. He was named All-County and All-Section in both football and baseball. Corey is the vice president of his class and is involved in the Peer Mentoring program. He attended the WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit in 2019 and helps coach the Little League football program.

Kasie Meek is the daughter of John and Tonya Meek of Holbrook. The sophomore competes in volleyball and basketball. She was a key contributor to the Pioneers run to the WPIAL basketball finals. Kasie is the secretary of the Class of 2024 and is involved in the Science Club. She loves playing club volleyball in Morgantown.

GIRL OF THE MONTH

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Greene County Resident Competes in Tokyo 2020 Paralympics

hen faced with tragedy, most people put their lives and dreams on hold or give up and accept their circumstances. Then there are people like Kevin Polish who cannot bounce back fast enough and immediately work towards making the best out of the cards life has dealt them. Kevin Polish Jr. was born in Carmichaels, PA and discovered his passion at the age of three when his father began teaching him the basics of archery. Thanks to his father owning a pro archery shop, he had everything he needed to get a head-start in the sport. By age eleven, Polish was competing and won his first World Championship in the Youth Division. “I put in four to nine hours per day – every day – judging distance and shooting at targets,” Kevin said in an article for Wheel Life. By fifteen, he knew he was ready for more serious competitors and to earn some real checks. After signing the papers and agreeing to put all the money he won as a professional archer into college scholarship funds and trust funds, Polish became the youngest archer to be allowed to shoot against the best of the best. In the process, he picked up a number of sponsorships, signing

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onto his first at the age of sixteen. While feeling on top of the world in his career, an incident in October of 1999 altered Kevin’s life forever. He was with a friend driving on a dirt road on the way to hunt when a flock of turkeys appeared in their path. He swerved to miss the flock and went off road down a 100-foot bank where the car hit a two-foot tree stump, causing the car to jackknife and roll about ten times. “When I was flying through the air, the thought popped into my mind, ‘Wow, this is cool. I’m flying,’” Polish added. Polish was thrown about 37 feet up in the air until hitting the tree that broke his back in two separate places. When help finally arrived, the Jaws of Life had to be used to pry the tree open wide enough to get him out. In the hospital, Polish was told he would never again be able to sit up or stand up, and that he could never participate in archery again. He informed them they were wrong and worked out in physical therapy eight hours a day, sometimes until passing out. “When I woke up, I’d say, ‘Let’s go work some more,’” Polish said. “I had to completely relearn how to shoot the bow with my new body.” Within six months of leaving the hos-

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

pital, Polish competed in the 2000 World Archery Tournament in Las Vegas to shoot in the Pro Division and took second. He participated in four more World Championship contests that year and ranked in top fifteen archers in the world. He became the first disabled athlete to compete in a World

Archery Tournament against athletes that were not disabled in any way. Since then, he has finished first in a World Championship in Puerto Rico in 2017, ninth in the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, and recently finished his second Paralympic Games in Tokyo.

New Veterans’ Memorial Built in Bobtown

ohn Michniak, a local veteran of 21 years and a Bobtown native, is working to erect a memorial in honor of three Vietnam War veterans who all died at roughly 20 years of age. John says this memorial is to ensure these veterans will live on forever. John remembered the days where all homes along his street touted American flags, but he says now he only sees about one or two. “A lot of the local people, I felt, we’re forgetting about them,” John says. “I’ve always felt that all veterans should be remembered for what they did.” The memorial will honor Daniel Allum who was killed in action on Oct. 27, 1965, Joseph Antonelli who was killed in action on Jan. 14, 1970, and Keith Held who was killed in action on June 1, 1970. John remembered growing up attending ceremonies for World War II veterans and for Memorial Day and says he started planning these various ceremonies about four years ago. His biggest inspiration came from his friendship with a Korean War veteran who modeled remembrance for him named Tibor Namet who has since passed. “Every year for Memorial Day, Veteran’s Day, even D-Day he would salute the honorable and go through the list of names. He was

dedicated to do that,” John says. “He’s had a lot of impact in my life; I couldn’t let him stand alone.” John said the foundation for the monument is complete and the rest of the monument will be ready for the ceremony on Sunday, November 7 at 1pm at the Bobtown Honor Roll in Bobtown Pennsylvania. The money for the monument was raised in just three short weeks from the community. John says he even had to turn down donations as they exceeded what was necessary for the project. “The community was very graceful. I had strip tickets that I sold, and they raised a $1,000 and the community here basically donated the rest,” he explains. “The community here was very great.” John says he is expecting about 400 people to attend the event. According to John’s Facebook event, Boy Scout troops 1280 and 9280 will assist with the flag ceremony and lead the pledge of allegiance. Layna Fisher will be singing the national anthem. Guest speakers and performers include retired Major Pete Keruskin, Arnold Friend who will read his own poetry, and retired Lieutenant Colonel Todd Moore who will dedicate the new memorial. The Greene County Veterans Honor

Guard will do the complete military honor, and taps will be played by Robert and Chris Menear. John will also be honoring Greene County’s oldest living World War II vet, Orlando Pete. Afterwards, there will be a free dinner sponsored by the Shannopin Civics Club following the ceremony. “I think it is really important that we recognize and patronize all veterans,” he says. “I did it for these people. I’m the kind of person who doesn’t really want the recognition, you know, I recognize everybody else, and I do it mainly for them.”

By Sierra Medina

The new memorial will honor three local Vietnam veterans. It is near the wall of honor in Bobtown.

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Daniel Allum

aniel E. Allum was born on Sept. 2, 1945, in Dilliner, Pennsylvania. Allum served in the Army of the United States as a Private First-Class Infantryman in the 327th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division. Allum was in the Binh Dinh Province of

South Vietnam when his body was recovered. Allum died at the age of 20 due to a ground causality from small arms fire on Oct. 27, 1965. We salute you, Daniel Allum and thank you for your service.

Joseph Antonelli

oseph Paul Antonelli was born on May 11, 1949, in Bobtown, Pennsylvania. Antonelli served as a Field Illumination Crewman, rank Specialist Four in the 29th Artillery in the Second Field Force of the Army of the United States.

Antonelli’s body was recovered in the Chau Doc Province of South Vietnam on Jan. 14, 1970. Antonelli died at the age of 20 due to artillery, rocket, or mortar fire. We salute you, Joseph Antonelli, and thank you for your service.

Keith Held

eith Held was born on Jan. 28, 1950, in Mount Morris, Pennsylvania. He served as an infantryman in the seventh calvary, first calvary division in the Army of the United States.

Held died on June 1, 1970, in Cambodia at the age of 20 due to small arms fire. Held was posthumously promoted to Corporal. We salute you, Keith Held, and thank you for your service.

Wes Cranmer

ajor Wes Cranmer is a C-17 pilot with the 911th Airlift Wing (Air Force Reserve Command) at Pittsburgh International Airport. He has been in the military for over 23 years and lives in Waynesburg. Wes grew up living between the South Hills of Pittsburgh and over Holbrook. He started his military career as a tank driver in the Army National Guard in Connellsville. When he was a young soldier, his tank commander was Fred Morecraft, the Carmichaels school district superintendent. He later switched from the Army to the Air Force and rose in rank from private to major. During Wes’s time in the military, he has traveled to 45 U.S. states and 31 foreign countries as part of his service. He spent most of 2015 in Kabul, Afghanistan, teaching the Afghans how to fly the C-130. Wes has four children, all of whom love the television show Paw Patrol. Each child has chosen one of the pups as themselves. As

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Wes flies all over the world, he travels with a stuffed animal of each pup to show that Daddy is taking each of his pups along with him. We salute you, Wes Cranmer, and thank you for your service.

Donald Fuller

onald W. Fuller served in the early 1950s in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Don was stationed in Germany at Spangdahlem and Rammstein. He was trained as an operating engineer for heavy equipment and worked on infrastructure projects. He was also tasked with teaching others for operating engineer positions. Don, age 90, currently resides in Carmichaels. His daughter, Catherine Cartre, says, “Dad does not draw attention to himself and his service. But I can speak for our family when I say that we are all very proud of him and all who serve and have served our country.” We salute you, Donald Fuller, and thank you for your service.

William Adams

illiam Adams was a World War II veteran who lived in the Ruff Creek area. He served from 1940 until 1945 and was in the 101st Airborne and the 401st/325th Glider Infantry. William went into Normandy and Holland by glider; he was also involved in the Battle of the Bulge. His daughter, Janet Caton, says that he was a, “quiet hero who lived among everyone in Greene County.” We salute you, William Adams, and thank you for your service.

Thomas M. Blaker

homas M. Blaker was a PFC Army in the Korean War. He also was Military Police. According to his grandaughter, Sash Chylinkski, he always said his crowning moment in life, besides his children being born, was being Marilyn Monroe’s private chauffeur while she toured Korea for her USO shows. As a memento, Thomas had a signed autograph of one of her most iconic photos. When he returned home, his mother found it and threw it away thinking it was inappropriate material, not realizing it was addressed to her son and autographed by someone famous. “He always laughed telling me that story,” Sash shares. We salute you, Thomas Blaker, and thank you for your service.

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Charles Whitlatch

harles Everett Whitlatch graduated from West Greene High School on May 28, 1965 and en-listed in the US Army. He boarded the bus at the Fort Jackson Hotel in Waynesburg and headed south to Fairmont, WV to be sworn in. He then flew to Fort Jackson, SC for basic training; his advanced training was in Fort Belvoir, VA. Following training, he was stationed in Pirmasens, West Germany and assigned to the 5th Maintenance Battalion. While in Germany, he made ‘Soldier of the Month’ twice in the Battal-ion and once in the group consisting of ten battalions. While there, he received the rank of E-5. He decided that he wanted to spend his last year of service in Vietnam. He spent a 30 day leave at his home in West Finley and got engaged to his future wife, Patricia Adams before

heading to Vietnam. He served in Vietnam with the 27th Combat Engineer Battalion in Xuan Loc, Vietnam. He was attached to the 11th Armored Calvary Regiment and served as a Platoon Sergeant. He received the rank of Staff Sergeant E-6, as well as other accolades and medals. Charles likes to say about his time in the Army “that I traveled around the world and came back by the grace of God and married the love of my life, my next-door neighbor girlfriend, and got to see her graduate from the same school I graduated from.” The following month, they were married; they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this year. They have been blessed with four children, seven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. We salute you, SSG. Charles Whitlatch, and thank you for your service.

James Townsend

FC James Townsend proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1952 to 1954. He was attached to Company 7th Marines. During his time in the service, he received the purple heart medal by being wounded during combat. After recovering, James served on the Military Police force as a border guard for the Korean Demilitarized Zone. We salute you, James Townsend, and thank you for your service.

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Together with Veterans Rural Suicide Prevention Program

ccording to the latest statistics, the 2019 Pennsylvania Veteran Suicide Data shows that the veteran suicide rate in Pennsylvania was significantly higher than the national general population suicide rate. It is on record that in 2019, 270 veterans between the ages of 18-75+ took their life. One life is too many. Chris Clark, a retired Army veteran served our country for 29 years and now works as a government contractor. He currently trains National Guard units across the northeastern United States. When Chris, who receives care from the VA, was approached in May regarding a veteran’s suicide prevention program, he was more than willing to jump on board as the program’s facilitator. Bree Piper is a mental health professional with the VA and is the driving force behind the outreach and getting the program rolling. She wanted to see if there was a fit in Greene County for this program and indeed there was. With the support of Greene County Veterans, community partners, mental health professionals, clergy members, drug and alcohol counselors, and many more local community partners, the Together with Veterans (TWV) - Greene County, PA’s Steering Committee was born. TWV is overseen by the VA’s rural veterans’ health initiative, which started in the summer of 2021. Their goal is to provide veterans with leadership, support, and guidance. The Steering Committee has many moving parts that keep the program running smoothly and in the right direction. The co-coordinators are Kathy Cipcic (Director, Greene Co. Office of Veterans Affairs) and Renee Imhoff (Administrative Asst., Greene Co. Office of Veterans Affairs).The co-facilitators are Chris Clark (US Army-Retired; Veteran-Operation Iraqi Freedom) and Alisa Hatchett (Program Supervisor, PA Dept. of Labor & Industry; US Air Force Veteran) In 2018, the suicide rate for veterans was 1.5 times higher than the rate for non-veteran adults. The goal of TWV is to reduce suicide and suicidal behavior among veterans. They plan to bring an end to veteran suicide by providing veterans with resources, education and support. “We need to help build community awareness surrounding this issue,” says veteran, Chris Clark. “Partnering with rural veterans and their communities to implement community-based suicide prevention is key in supporting those who have given so much to our country.” “Community partners who are informed and educated

about suicide prevention, and veteran/military culture are better equipped to address the needs of veterans,” adds Chris. Collaboration and education will strengthen the suicide prevention network for veterans, their families and friends. The TWV strategies are drawn from well-researched models that have been shown to effectively reduce suicide rates. TWV partnerships develop a unique suicide prevention action plan based on community strengths and addressing community needs. These strategies are implemented using a five-phase process to support rural communities in developing a local veteran suicide prevention action plan: team building, community outreach, community research, team training, Community-tailored planning, and the execution of plans and measuring effectiveness. Six evidence-based suicide prevention strategies are used by TWV to support the local planning efforts: provide suicide prevention training, enhance primary care suicide prevention, promote connectedness and help seeking, improve communication across veteran-serving programs, enhance behavioral health suicide prevention, and promote lethal means safety. The 2018 records show there were 261 veteran suicides across the state, with the Pennsylvania suicide rate being 31.3 and 32 nationally. In 2019 these rates increase with 270 veteran suicides. The Pennsylvania veteran suicide rate was recorded at 33 and 31 nationally. PA is close to being among the top rated for veteran suicides in our country. With the veteran’s crisis line TWV hopes to be in right place at the right time. Veterans who are looking for help can call, text or chat online to help get them to a safe place. Together with Veterans Rural Suicide Prevention Program is currently in the procedural steps. Training of the crisis hotline staff, researching local available resources that veterans can take advantage of and lastly, providing community readiness. It is their hope that local emergency services, law enforcement and all program team and community members

By Melody Eller

can come together with laser beam focus to establish what veterans need the most. “If we can get people to talk openly and freely about this problem, we can help our veterans.” Chris shares a quote from one of his favorite authors, Tom Satterly, Co-founder of All Secure Foundation, “People don’t fake needing help, they fake being okay”.

The VA’s Office of Rural Health, funds Together With Veterans Greene County in cooperation with the Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC) for Suicide Prevention, the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education Behavioral Health Program (WICHE BHP) *The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is leading efforts to understand suicide risk factors, develop evidence-based prevention programs and prevent Veteran suicide through a public health approach. *These 2019 state data sheets are based on a collaborative effort among the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). The statistics presented are derived from multiple data sources, including the VA Office of Enterprise Integration, the VA Serious Mental Illness Treatment Resource and Evaluation Center, VA Post-Deployment Health Services, the VA Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, and the DoD Defense Suicide Prevention Office.

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• GreeneScene Community Magazine

Elmore Wilkinson

lmore Wilkinson was a Greene County native that fought in the Civil War. He was born on September 25, 1829, in Dunkard Township. Elmore married Martha Lynch and they had five children. Sometime in the 1850s, he and several others from Greene County moved to Wood County, West Virginia. Elmore purchased 335 acres on Bull Run near Waverly West Virginia. This home still stands today. Elmore joined the Union Army in August 1862 and trained on Wheeling Island. He was with the 15th West Virginia Infantry Company G. He helped guard the B&O Railroad until April 1864. He fought in his first major battle, the Battle of Cloyd’s Mountain, Virginia, on May 9, 1864, and on the next day fought at New River Bridge, Va. Elmore participated in several more battles in the following months: Lynchburg, Virginia on June 18, 1864; second Kernstown, Virginia on July 24, 1864; Several fights & skirmishes at Charlestown and Halltown, West Virginia in August 1864; Battle of Berryville, Virginia on September 3, 1864; Battle of Third Winchester, Virginia on September 19, 1864; Battle of Fisher’s Hill, Virginia on September 22, 1864; and Battle of Tom’s Brook, Virginia on October 9, 1864. The October 9 battle was a cavalry fight in which General George Custer was one of the Union generals commanding. Elmore wrote in his diary his outfit was drawn up in line of battle and he mentioned Custer in his notation for that day. He also fought at Hupp’s Hill or Stickley’s Farm, Virginia on October 13, 1864. Elmore’s brigade and one other brigade unknowingly went up against a whole Confederate Army Corp and “they got whipped pretty badly,” says Rodger Lemley, Elmore’s great-great-grandson. An excerpt from Elmore’s diary regarding the fight: “We was relieved by the 123 Ohio. [We] marched to camp about 12 o’clock. Shealing[shelling] our camp. [We] was ordered in line, marching down in the hollow around towards the ford, the enemy shealing us. Crossing the creek

marching some distance and then drawn up in line of battle marching through a hedgefence a past some buildings on in line of battle. Some distance further the enemy poring the sheal into us. The firing kep [sic] up for sometime. [We] was ordered to fal [sic] back to our camp which was done. [We] got several wounded and killed in the fight.” Another October battle included the Battle of Cedar Creek in Virginia on October 19. 1864. On December 19, 1864, Elmore and his regiment left the Shenandoah Valley by train and went to Washington, D.C., arriving on December 20. They took a boat on the Potomac River and then the Chesapeake Bay and arrived at Harrison’s Landing. Elmore was camped around Richmond, Virginia for some time that spring and in a notation from his diary on March 17, 1865, he mentions General Grant reviewed the troops. He wrote “General review at one PM by General grant. Great cheering by the 24th Corps as the General rode by. The General took off his hat as he passed.” Then on March 25, 1865, Elmore’s army took up line of march and came to Petersburg, Virginia. From here on, he saw several fights and battles, one being April 2, 1865 at Fort Gregg, Fort Whitworth, and Hatcher’s Run. They then began to pursue General Robert E. Lee and his army across Virginia. On April 6, Elmore fought at Rice’s Station, Virginia. On April 9, 1865 General Lee surrendered to General Grant. Elmore wrote in his diary about this day: “Took up line of march, marching 4 miles. The enemy attacked us, thay [sic] repulsed our calvary. Our infantry advanced on them and drove them. Thay [sic] sent in a flag of truce. The firing ceased, our line halting. The surrender of General Lee’s Army at Appomattox Courthouse, Va. at 4 o’clock PM on the 9th of April 1865 A.O.” Elmore was mustered out on June 30, 1865 and had the rank of Sergeant. He continued to live in Wood County, Bull Run, West Virginia until he died on January 28, 1892. We salute you, Elmore Wilkinson, and thank you for your service. GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

Wendy & Warren Dickerson

endy Dickerson PO2, of Bobtown, while serving on the USS John Paul Jones DDG 53, in Pearl Harbor Hawaii.

arren Dickerson PO2, of Bobtown, served on the US Dwight D Eisenhower while on deployment to the Arabian Sea in 2020. Because of COVID-19, the ship spent 206 days at sea with no port calls and returned to Norfolk, Virginia on August 9, 2020.

Richard Black

ichard Black enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1964. He served on the USS Southerland from 1964 to 1968, having served during the Vietnam War. His love for our country and dedication to the county and Veterans was admirable and contagious. Mr. Black spearheaded the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Project, which started the Greene County Salute to Veterans Committee that continued with the Greene County Veterans Memorial Park. Along with the Greene County Veterans Council, Mr. Black helped organize the Korean Traveling Memorial. He also collaborated with local school districts for Veterans Day Programs to assist in teaching and inspiring children.

Rodman W. Stewart

SGT Rodman W. Stewart was a hydraulic specialist. In this photo, he is working on an F-15 Fighter jet while stationed at Camp New Amsterdam in the Netherlands while stationed Soesterberg AFB in 1991.“The sacrifice you have made will never go in vain, all the contributions you made will pass from one generation to next generation as long as we continue to remember.” We salute you, TSGT Rodman Stewart and thank you for your service.

NOVEMBER 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021

AREA OBSERVANCES FOR VETERANS DAY WAYNESBURG - VETERANS DAY EVENT ON NOV. 6 - The Veterans Council of Greene County will be holding an event at the Greene County Fairgrounds on Nov. 6 from 10am to 3pm. Beginning at 12pm, the ceremony will include: chaplain opening prayer, National Anthem by Post 400 Carmichaels Band, vocalist to sing God Bless America, remembrance of Rick Black by Alisa Hatchett, keynote Speaker Commissioner Betsy Rohanna-McClure, student to read “In Flanders Field”, firing Squad Greene County Honor Guard, bugle, chaplain closing prayer , and a vocalist to sing “God Bless the USA”. Light refreshments and food to follow in basement of 4-H building. GREENSBORO - VFW POST 6303 CEREMONY ON NOV. 6 - The Greensboro VFW Post 6303 will have their post open on Nov. 6 with a 1pm dedication for the new banners being placed around Greensboro held at The Ice Plant. The speaker will be Commissioner Mike Belding.

NOVEMBER 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

BOBTOWN - MONUMENT DEDICATION ON NOV. 7- There will be a dedication of a new Vietnam veterans monument in Bobtown by the Honor Roll at 1pm. the monument honors three local Vietnam veterans. CARMICHAELS - AMERICAN LEGION PARADE & PROGRAM ON NOV. 11 - Post 400 in Carmichaels will hold a parade and program on November 11, 2021. The parade will begin at 10:30am, when the American Legion Post 400 and Post 400 Band, along with the Carmichaels High School Band, will assemble at South Market Street near Yoskovich Funeral Home and proceed through the town square to Carmichaels Area High School. Wagons, floats, and trucks with trailers are welcome to join. Following the parade, American Legion Post 400 will present a ceremony of honor and remembrance at 10:45am the Carmichaels Area High School Auditorium. WAYNESBURG - GREENE COUNTY VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK ON NOV. 11 - The Greene County Salute to Veterans

Committee will dedicate the addition of 300 new bricks on two newly completed memorial walls at the Greene County Veterans Memorial Park in Waynesburg on Rolling Meadows Road. The ceremony will be held at 11am on Nov. 11. Light refreshments will follow.

Masontown, PA 724-583-2680 724-583-2685 amedisys.com

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

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

NOVEMBER 2021