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SNYDER LAUNCHES COAT DRIVE TO BENEFIT NEEDY IN AREA
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tate Rep. Pam Snyder is launching a winter coat drive to benefit needy families in our area. “I urge residents to donate new and gently used winter coats of all sizes so they can be made available to less-fortunate neighbors,” Snyder said. “My district offices are collecting clean coats through December 6 for distribution locally.” Snyder said coats may be dropped off from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at the three district offices: • 104 S. Market St., Suite 101, in Carmichaels; • 33 Market St., Suite 1, in Brownsville; and • 93 E. High St., Room 215, in Waynesburg. Snyder said she is partnering with the Waynesburg Salvation Army, the Masontown Helping Hands Ministry and Crosskeys Human Services of Brownsville to distribute the coats locally. “The need for warm coats exists locally, and donating an extra or unused coat is a great way to get into the holiday spirit,” Snyder said. Anyone with questions about the coat donations may call the Carmichaels office at 724966-8953.
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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013
John H. Humble, Jr. Nov 30, 1931 – Nov. 13, 2013
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man who touched more lives than we can count; the GreeneSaver joins the hearts of thousands in our community who mourn the loss of John Humble. We affectionately called him the “Chief Nut” each holiday season as he kicked off the Koeze Nut Sale for the Waynesburg Lions. This was just one of hundreds of ways that John Humble worked tirelessly for so many years to benefit his neighbors and fellow humans across the globe. A Korean War veteran, a dedicated Christian and member of the Gideons among other missions and ministries, an outstanding servant through the Waynesburg Lions where he had 20 years of perfect attendance and served as President three times, among other offices. John was a huge supporter and fund raiser for so many other organizations and causes, they are too numerous to mention. And beyond all that, he was a personal friend and advisor to many individuals in need – whether material or spiritual – John Humble cared and acted upon that concern. We will miss him – oh so many will miss him here. Yet we rejoice at the words John Humble’s heavenly Father has now spoken to him: “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
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Human Services Administrator Recipient of Award
Bortz Chevy Awards Local Resident Grand Prize In the spirit of community collaboration and teamwork taught through youth sports, Bortz Chevrolet Inc. supports Waynesburg Pony Baseball though the Chevy Youth Baseball Program. As part of the program, Waynesburg Pony Baseball participated in the Free Chevrolet Youth Baseball Double Play Sweepstakes, and Catherine Surber from Waynesburg, PA was the Grand Prize winner in the Northeast! Catherine picked up her prize, an All-New 2014 Chevrolet Traverse, at Bortz Chevrolet Inc. on Monday, October 21. Rich Bortz Jr., of Bortz Chevrolet Inc., said, “Chevy Youth Baseball is just one example of how committed our dealership is to supporting the youth and families of our community.” The 2013 program provided assistance to an impressive 339 leagues in the Northeastern region and Chevrolet dealers contributed Catherine Surber of Waynesburg receives keys to a brand new Chevy Traverse grand prize. Rich Bortz Jr. pictured handing over the keys at nearly $600,000 in monetary and Bortz Chevrolet Inc. in Waynesburg. equipment donations.
Karen Bennett, administrator of the Greene County Human Services Department since 2000, recently received the Staunton Farm Foundation’s 2013 Albert B. Craig Jr. Award for Innovation in Behavioral Health. “Karen’s leadership and creativity have been invaluable,” said Staunton Farm’s Foundation President Rob Ferree. “Greene County has an integrated model of human services, in that all departments are managed under one umbrella. Their model allows for the most effective streamlining of human services, with centralized management, communication and location. She has always put the consumer’s interest at the forefront and is an advocate on both the local and state levels. It is a privilege to be associated with Karen and her tremendous work.” Karen Bennett, administrator of the Greene County Human Services Department, accepts the Staunton Farm Foundation’s 2013 Albert B. Craig Jr. Award for Innovation in Behavioral Health from Rob Ferree, president of the foundation.
HEALTHY EATING TALK Southwest Regional Medical Center recently hosted a program on healthy eating for County of Greene employees. Alka Rambhia, Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) and Kati Mack, Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) and director of nutritional services, provided tips for good nutrition and healthy eating. Philip Elliott, food service worker, also demonstrated healthy cooking techniques. Participants were able to sample the prepared food and ask questions. Sheryl Ondrejko, RN and Director of Cardiology also spoke on the impact healthy eating has on our health. The program was sponsored by the Greene County Memorial Hospital Foundation.
Local Company Wins National Award American Building Company, a manufacturer of metal building systems throughout the United States has recognized Stratus Construction Inc. of Waynesburg with an Honorable Mention Award for the construction of the Columbia Gas Office/ Warehouse Complex recently completed in Bridgeville. Robert A. Lang, President of Stratus Construction Inc., stated that the team comprised of John Deliewa, General Contractor, Premier Architecture and Stratus Construction Inc. was formed to plan the 20,000 sq. ft. Office Warehouse Complex. The goal of the team was to provide a functional building with an attractive exterior within the owner’s budget. The metal building system provided the interior space with the functions required and a low maintenance exterior that met all the International Building Codes. With completion and this award, Mr. Lang’s observation—“Our goal was achieved.” Dave Frederick of American Buildings Company, presents Robert A. Lang of Stratus Construction Inc. of Waynesburg the Award for Excellence in Design - Honorable Mention.
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Pictured from left are Alka Rambhia, Philip Elliott and Kati Mack. In forefront, Lucinda Sheaffer, county employee.
Nursing Program Congratulates Graduates
The Greene County Career and Technology Center Practical Nursing Program is proud to announce the Class of 2013 had a 100% NCLEX pass rate. This is a one year program and 22 graduates came from Greene County and the surrounding areas. Their clinical rotations included Southwest Regional Medical Center, Rolling Meadows LongTerm Care, Golden Living Center, Head Start, Your Child’s Place and the Washington Health System. Entrance testing has started for the 2014-2015 class that begins in July. For more information, call 724 627 3106, extension 208.
Mon View Roller Rink Opens With “Halloween Skate & Dance”
More than 150 individuals attended the sixth annual “Halloween Skate & Dance,” held from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1, at Mon View Roller Rink in Greensboro. Sponsored by the Greene County Commissioners and Behm Funeral Homes, Inc., the event featured treats and skating activities. Costume judging took place for funniest, ugliest, prettiest, scariest and most original costumes. Prizes were awarded in three different age categories: ages 8-10, 11-13 and 14-17. All winners received $10 gift cards from Wal-Mart.
Winners of the Halloween costume judging contest included: Prettiest: Abby Morris, 9, of Carmichaels, Payden Policz, 12, of Waynesburg, Alix Morris, 8, of Carmichaels and Carly Riggi, 15, of Rices Landing; Most Original: Erin Brown, 10, of Greensboro, Mia Swestyn, 8, of Carmichaels, Nathaniel Chipps, 17, of Dilliner, Hannah Kinney, 12, of Carmichaels and Stephanie Pratt, 12, of Carmichaels; Ugliest: Joey Crawford, 10, of Clarksville and Nate Shinkovich, 12, of Greensboro; Funniest: Nicky Grim, 8, of Taylortown, C.J. Guesman, 15, of Dilliner and and Katelyn Wolfe, 11, of Dilliner; and Scariest: Brandon Smotzer, 14, of Greensboro, Jordan Kinsell, 13, of Carmichaels and Chase Crawford, 8, of Clarksville.
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t ’ n d i D I , “W O W d l u o C u o Know Y Do T h at!”
his is what our clients say when they find out that Direct Results is the only place they need to go to meet their business and promotional needs. This month, we’re spotlighting our embroidery and screen printing shop. No matter your needs or budget, our professional design and manufacturing staff will treat your project as their project. Whether it’s t-shirts with a simple black-and-white company name printed on the front, or a piece of high-quality outerwear with your company’s full-color logo emblazoned across the back, our attention to detail is sure to impress. Screen printing and embroidery services are done completely inhouse, insuring accuracy, start to finish. Custom clothing, such as logo shirts or embroidered products, are effective for the same reason that so many other promotional products deliver results: they serve as a tangible reminder of your brand, one that is much harder to ignore than TV, print, or online advertisements. When you give someone branded apparel, you give them an item that they will physically wear and incorporate into their lives. So, how, exactly, can you use promotional clothing to build brand recognition? The nice thing about printed shirts and embroidered hats is the level of customization available. Not only can you imprint your company’s logo or marketing message, but you can also match the color of your apparel to the corporate color scheme of your business. These seemingly simple customizations are what ties the apparel back to your brand, and delivers that instant reminder to your target audiences. Screen printing and embroidery are only a couple of examples of how Direct Results can help craft your company’s image. We also offer signs in any size, vehicle graphics, brochures, business cards, and a wide array of other printing needs. In addition, we can provide customized promotional products that keep your name in front of your customers every day. Because our work is done inhouse, you can save time and money, while receiving top quality service and products.
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TERRY WILSON: The Wrestler Returns to the Ring by Aaron Thompson
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erry Wilson has spent his whole life around wrestling. So, naturally, when it was time to celebrate his 70th birthday, he came back to Waynesburg, where it all started. The 1961 Waynesburg Central High School grad, who graduated from Waynesburg College in 1966, has spent more than 50 years involved with the sport of wrestling. Wilson, who celebrated his birthday in early August, came back to the place he once called home to reminisce and see all that has changed—and stayed the same—in the place that still means a great deal to him after all these years. “The University has changed so much since my days,” Wilson said. “We had just four buildings then. Now there is a big map that shows you the campus. It is always nice to come back to your hometown, and where you have good friends and good memories.” The trip back to campus was coordinated with the help of Albie Rinehart. Rinehart, a close friend who still lives in Waynesburg, gave Wilson a tour of campus. Wilson then visited the Paul R. Stewart Museum in the basement of Miller Hall, where he was shown artifacts by museum curator James “Fuzzy” Randolph. Another stop was at the newly renovated wrestling room located within the Captain Robert C. Wiley Armory, which is located at the bottom of campus. The visit to the Armory sparked great memories, as he used to wrestle in the facility during his high school days at Waynesburg Central. Wilson said that the new wrestling room that the University calls home in the Armory is a top-notch facility that they should be proud of. “This is a very nice facility that they have here now,” he said. “The fitness center and this building are both outstanding.” For Wilson, who started wrestling in third grade and coached all the way up until 1996, the trip offered a lot of time to look back on his life and the time he spent in Waynesburg. “My reflection of my experience here is probably the greatest you can have,” he said. Wilson credits his dad and his coaches most for his success in life and with wrestling. He said his dad encouraged him to play a variety of different sports growing up, and to always work as hard as he could. There was just something about wrestling, though, that stood out for Wilson. “I was fortunate to win a state championship in high school and then be able to stay home for college because of the program here at the college,” he said. Wilson’s high school state championship road was a lot tougher than it might have been if he were wrestling now, since, at that time, every school was part of the same division, regardless of size. Today there are multiple classifications separating bigger schools from smaller schools. Once he moved on to college he felt privileged to have the opportunity to wrestle for two of the top coaches in Waynesburg College/University history. His wrestling career at Waynesburg started under legendary coach Bucky Murdock, who coached the team from 1949-1962. Wilson then wrestled for coach Clayton Ketterling after Murdock retired. The two coaches are known for their sound coaching and long tenures at the school. During the five-year period that Wilson was at Waynesburg, the school put together a 44-12 overall dual record. Once Wilson was done with his collegiate career he moved to coaching. He got an opportunity to be the head coach at Sandusky High School in Sandusky, Ohio. Wilson went on to coach in Sandusky from 1966-1996. Wilson recalled accepting the head coaching position as “something he had dreamed about.” Several former wrestlers from his days of coaching have now moved into coaching as well, which is something of which Wilson is very proud. Wilson, who was joined by his wife Victoria and other family members, considered the birthday celebration trip a big success. “I don’t get the chance to get back very often so this was nice,” he said. “We get back for weddings, funerals, class reunions, and try to make it back occasionally for homecoming.” Waynesburg University wrestling coach, Ron Headlee, felt fortunate that Wilson got the opportunity to come back to campus. “To me this is why you coach. You want to get the past guys interested who have put their heart and soul into the program when they were here,” Headlee said. “These guys love to see the program have success.” Headlee said he could tell Wilson loved seeing all the changes to campus. “He told me it is amazing, [seeing] the campus from where it was when he was in school until now. People are really surprised, I think, with our campus, and we are really blessed to have the facilities we have here.” Wilson offered up a bit of advice to the younger wrestlers of today: “You have to have discipline and desire for what you want to do in life,” he said. “You have to develop a strong work ethic and I think that is what wrestling does.”
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Waynesburg University wrestling coach, Ron Headlee (left) hosts Terry Wilson on a tour of the newly renovated wrestling room located within the Robert C. Wiley Armory.
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his evocative photo comes to us courtesy of Melody Longstreth and the Waynesburg Chamber of Commerce’s collection of pictures from past parades in downtown Waynesburg. It shows as the sticker from the original picture indicates, part of the crowd gathered to wait for Saint Nick in 1948. It looks like a scene straight out of the classic holiday film, “A Christmas Story”—dads in suits and ties, overcoats and fedoras, hoisting scarf-and-hood laden youngsters up for a better look, all anxiously awaiting the arrival of that special visitor from the North Pole! We bet there’s someone out there who will see this and say, “Hey, that’s Uncle Phil!” or “Wow, that’s my mom!” or—better still— “Holy cow—that’s ME!” If you recognize anyone, why not let us know? We’d love to hear from you!
If you have an interesting old photo from the area you’d like to share, just send it to: GreeneScene of the Past, 185 Wade Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370. Or email to: info@greenesaver.com with GreeneScene Past in subject line. The GreeneSaver can even scan your original in just a few minutes if you bring it to our office. We are particularly interested in photos of people and places in the Greene County area taken between 1950 and 1980, though we welcome previous dates, too.
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WAYNESBURG CHRISTMAS PARADE DETAILS The Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce is reminding residents and organizations that the 2013 Downtown Waynesburg Christmas Parade to be held Saturday, December 7th at 2:00pm is approaching. The Parade is underwritten by Greene County Tourism. Miss Rain Day 2013, Stephanie Mitchell and the Chamber’s 2013 Distinguished Service Award winners, Tim Hawfield, Jeff McCracken (representing the late Johnny McCracken) and members of the Greene Community Church will have the honor of leading the parade down High Street as its Grand Marshals. Also, once again, WCYJ Television from
Waynesburg College will be videotaping the parade for a later broadcast on local stations. WCYJ is a student operated television station under the direction of Bill Molzon. Residents living around the college and parks are reminded that line-up will begin in that area at noon on parade day. Several streets will be blocked off to traffic not associated with the parade starting at noon and ending at 3:30pm. Route 19 traffic will also be detoured during those hours. High Street, from McCracken’s Pharmacy to the First Baptist Church will close beginning at 2:00p.m. and will remain closed through the end of the parade. A detour route will be available.
Local Rabbit Receives Honors Jenna Longstreth, a first grade student at Waynesburg Central Elementary School, and daughter of Chuck and Jane Longstreth of Waynesburg, was recently honored for her skills raising and showing Dwarf Hotot rabbits. At a recent double-open show in Dover, Ohio, Jenna received the second-highest honor in the Youth Show. One of her rabbits won the Best of Breed award, and then went on to compete for Best in Show. The rabbit was also selected Youth Reserve in Show. Jenna Longstreth and Eric Stewart, Executive Director of the American Rabbit Breeders Association
Flenniken Announces Free Computer Classes
Have you ever wanted to use a computer but don’t know where to begin? Or maybe you want to learn a new program for work? Then call the Flenniken Public Library and sign up for a free computer class. The library now offers hands-on computer training. Since space is limited, you must pre-regisThe Pennsylvania Library Association presented the 2013 Elected Officials Award to the Greene ter by calling 724-966-5263, or stopping by the library. The computer classes offered are: County Board of Commissioners, Charles Morris, Chairman, Archie Trader and Blair Zimmerman. Microsoft Vista, Tuesday, November 26, 2013--Learn how to use the basics of Microsoft Vista. The award, which was presented on Sunday, October 20, stated, in part, “…not just by their words This class will run from 1:00-2:00 PM. but by their actions, the Greene County Commissioners took the steps necessary to assure that all Beginning Internet, Tuesday, December 3, 2013–Learn how to get online and find the informacounty residents have access to high-quality public library services…By their actions, Commissioners tion you need. This class will run from 1:00-2:00 PM. Morris, Trader and Zimmerman have demonstrated the sure truth that good library services contribMicrosoft Word 2007, Tuesday, December 10, 2013—Learn how to use Word to write letters and ute to a strong citizenry, a strong county and an even stronger economy.” reports. This class will run from 1:00-2:00 PM. For more information: 724-966-5263
2013 Elected Officials Award
GREENE COUNTY TAX FIELD Domestic Violence Services Seeks Gift Donors ASSESSOR COMPETES
Pictured above is Ryan, along with his family members, at the start of the race.
Ryan White, field assessor in the Tax Assessment Department, recently participated in the “Fit for the Cure 5K” at the Tanger Outlets in Washington, PA. This race was held to raise money for the American Cancer Society and breast cancer awareness. Ryan and 53 of his family members won the “best team spirit” award.
Library Closing The Bowlby Library posts that it will be CLOSED on Tuesday, December 24, and Wednesday, December 25, for the Christmas holidays. The library will also be closing early on Tuesday, December 31, at 2:30 p.m., and will also be CLOSED Wednesday, January 1, 2014, for the New Year.
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Domestic Violence Services of S.W. PA posts the following request: “Just as you are preparing to celebrate the holidays, so are our clients. For many of the women and children we serve, this may be their first peaceful holiday, ever. This year, we need people to adopt individuals or families for the holidays. For more information on our Adopt-A-Family program, or to learn about other ways you can help, call 724-322-2369.”
Medical Insurance Marketplace Information Sessions The Bowlby Public Library is holding two Medical Insurance Marketplace information sessions during the month of December. If you are looking for information, or seeking answers to your insurance questions, plan to stop by the library during one of these times: Thursday, December 5, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., or on Wednesday, December 11, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A representative from two of the local area marketplaces will be available.
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By Regis Whetzel
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n Friday, October 25, 2013, Waynesburg Central High School hosted its second annual Freshman Fun Night from 3:15-5:45 pm, with over 50 freshmen signing up for this event. According to Waynesburg Central High’s Assistant Principal, Bob Stephenson, this event’s purpose is to help freshmen with the transition from the middle school to high school. He elaborates, saying, “The event is set up to not only allow students to feel comfortable with our building, but also with our faculty and staff. Building
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relationships with students is a powerful tool and an important part of WCHS’s culture.” During the event, students were able to pick from a variety of activities that ranged from tap dancing, fingernail painting, basketball, and 4-square, to “X-box Kinetics”, swimming, and mat ball. In addition, students were provided with free drinks and snacks along with pizza. Students also had the opportunity to purchase a football ticket for $1.00 for the home game later that evening.
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By Regis Whetzel
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Careers in the Natural Gas Industry
s the oil and gas industry continues to expand, so, too, does the need for new workers to step up and take their places in a variety of capacities. As with any job search, one of the most fundamental questions may often be, “How do I get started?” Dr. Nancy Davis, Energy Industry Liaison for Westmoreland County Community College’s (WCCC) Greene County Education Center, is overflowing with answers to that question. Her “Careers in the Natural Gas Industry” program, now in its third successful year, is specifically designed for 9th to 12th grade students throughout Greene County, and includes a wide array of activities to help students determine if they wish to pursue a career in the industry. Nancy leaves no question about whether or not the careers exist, providing a thick, ring-bound document, the “Oil & Gas/Energy Career Directory,” that features 67 pages of job descriptions for all education levels. Nancy has two immediate caveats, however. First, she says, “Whenever you talk to someone in the industry, they always stress that you absolutely need to be ‘clean’. You can’t have any ‘run-ins’ with drugs at all; or alcohol, for that matter.” Second, she stresses the fundamental importance of succeeding in school: “People who can do well in math and science do tend to get better jobs.” As she discusses the details of the WCCC program, the enthusiasm is clear in her voice and demeanor. The program begins with a school assembly for all 9th to 12th grade students, in every school in Greene County. Nancy has high praise for John Harper, consultant and presenter for the assemblies. A third-generation industry professional, John spent many years with Columbia Gas as a Technical Training Manager before starting his own business, Compliance and Performance Solutions, which serves the energy industry. The assembly is a requirement for all students. There is a diverse range of learning opportunities for those who want to learn more, including lectures, tours, and field trips, which enlist the assistance of the area’s industry professionals. Nancy provides several examples; the Halliburton Corporation took busloads of students to their Greene County facility to demonstrate how several specialized tools and pieces of machinery are used, while companies such as CONSOL Energy and Rice Energy provide carefully monitored field trips to actual drilling sites. Nancy points out that, in addition to the WCCC program, Waynesburg Central High School offers an entire class on the subject in which students may choose to participate. She also notes that WCCC offers both credit and non-credit training programs for high school graduates. She notes that the noncredit programs, which provide education in four specialized areas—Floorhand, Roustabout, Welder’s Helper, and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training—have been particularly successful, with an 86% employment rate for those who completed the training. These non-credit programs are tuition based, costing around $1300. However, Nancy says, assistance is available through Career Link to help offset the fee. For those interested in taking their education further, Nancy advises that, “Companies are always looking for engineers, and not just in that industry. Electrical, petroleum—all sorts of engineers are in demand.”
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Distinguished Service Award Winners announced by Waynesburg Chamber of Commerce
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he Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce has selected their 2013 Distinguished Service Award recipients. Chosen for the individual award was retired Chief of Police, Timothy Hawfield. The Greene Community Church was selected as the organization winner. The late John McCracken will also be honored with a posthumous Distinguished Service Award. Each year local residents are invited to make nominations for the awards which are based on lasting contributions to community welfare, participation in civic organizations, evidence of leadership ability, success in vocation, personal and/or business progress, and cooperation with other individuals and organizations. The award has no relation to work performed for the Chamber of Commerce. Timothy Hawfield was originally from the Bethesda, MD area, coming to Greene County to attend Waynesburg University, where he received a degree in history. While there, he met Carol McAndrews, who later became his wife. After graduating from Waynesburg, Timothy served in the U.S. Army, worked as a manager in a psychiatric ward at a hospital in Washington, D.C., and received another bachelor’s degree, this one in business, from the University of Maryland. After the birth of their son, Timothy Jr., the Hawfields decided to return to Waynesburg, where Carol’s family lived. Timothy Sr. became a Waynesburg Borough police officer in July of 1979, and was promoted to the position of Chief two years later, upon the retirement of the former Chief, Jim Rogers. Timothy remained Chief of Police until his retirement in July, 2013. A dedicated public servant, Tim was instrumental in promoting the “Officer Phil” program in area elementary schools; was a member of the “STOP” grant committee, which deals with domestic violence issues in the county, since its inception; and, for many years, has been a part of the “M.A.G.I.C.” (Making a Great Impact Collectively) committee, which visits local schools and counsels students on problems that adolescents face. He is also active in the “Safe Kids Committee,” which focuses on child safety. In addition to these diverse roles, he has served on the Salvation Army Advisory Board since 1995, assisting local people in need and during times of crisis; has taught criminal justice courses at Waynesburg College; and spearheaded the Greene County DUI Taskforce. Tim is passionate about history, with an encyclopedic knowledge of the Civil War, and is also well versed in the local history of Waynesburg and Greene County. He is currently the District Chairman for the Boy Scouts of America, and is a member of their Eagle Scout Board of Review. John McCracken was born in Columbus, Ohio, on April 14, 1957, but, soon after his birth, he and his parents moved to Waynesburg, where he spent the rest of his life. He graduated from Waynesburg Central High School in 1976, and then attended Salem University in West Virginia, where he studied education. On returning from Salem, John began his career at McCracken Pharmacy in Waynesburg, where the community came to know him in his steadfast role of “delivery man”. He worked at the pharmacy for over 30 years, until his unexpected death in August of this year. John was a member of Whiteley Creek Community Church, and a member of Waynesburg Lodge F and AM 153 and Valley of Uniontown. He was also a member of the Isaac Walton League of America, and belonged to the Independent Order of Oddfellows, where he served a full term as Noble Grand. He is remembered lovingly by his family as a man who loved going on a cruise each winter, though he had to forgo this pleasure for the past two years, due to health issues. Also, he is remembered for his commitment to being of service, whether through his deep affection for the Humane Society, or through his help at the Fairall Church dinners. John was an expert at navigating the streets and alleys of Waynesburg, having most addresses committed to memory, and he had an extensive knowledge of sports and trivia. He was an avid fan of the Three Stooges, often able to recite dialogue from episodes, verbatim, and was also proud to be the captain of his Wednesday night bowling league. The Greene Community Church began as a vision of four Southern Baptist churches in Georgia, South Carolina and Pennsylvania, who wanted to plant a new church in Waynesburg almost 11 years ago. With a handful of Greene County residents who were gathering John McCracken for a Sunday morning Bible study at the Comfort Inn, and an in-home Bible study at Cedar Ridge Apartments, Greene Community Church became a reality. “We knew we wanted to be good stewards of our time and our resources, and that included making a commitment to invest in the lives of those in Greene County, and the activities of Greene County,” says David Crowe, pastor. The church’s first community service, in September, 2004, was providing activities for children, and free photos of classic cars at the 2nd Annual Waynesburg 50s Fest and Car Cruise. After a little more than a year meeting at the Comfort Inn, the church outgrew the conference room of the hotel, and needed a larger and more permanent place to gather. It was then that they moved to their current location at 653 East High Street. Hawfield, McCracken, and the Greene Community Church will be honored at the Chamber’s Annual Membership Meeting and Banquet to be held November 23rd at Waynesburg University’s Benedum Dining Hall. The public is welcome to attend and may purchase tickets at the Chamber office prior to November 18th. For more information, call 724-627-5926 or info@waynesburgchamber.com. Timothy Hawfield
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A Lot to Juggle
e weaves effortlessly through such diverse performing arts as acting, musical theatre, rapping, bass playing, and juggling. He has performed on stages across the country for upwards of 20,000 people, and has an intense desire to learn more and reach higher. Certainly, it would not be an exaggeration to refer to Braxton McCollum as a “renaissance man,” in the truest sense of the phrase. The fact that he is not yet old enough to vote, or to even drive a car only serves to hammer home the extent of his passion and commitment. It could be speculated that Braxton, 15, a sophomore at Waynesburg Central high school, has performing in his genes. His father, Sam, and three of his uncles have strong musical and performing backgrounds. But after speaking with Braxton for only a few minutes, it becomes very clear that his talent is at least as much a product of his own inner determination as of any type of genetic influence. He speaks with the ease and confidence of someone who has been performing for far longer than his age would imply, moving from stories of becoming a “song and dance man” for a production of the musical, Oklahoma, to talking about a more intense role in an upcoming production of the contemporary drama, The Hundred Dresses. “I’m always nervous,” he says of his experiences under the stage lights, “but I just channel it into being excited.” His technique must work—earlier this year, Braxton was honored at the National Fine Arts Festival, winning the National Award of Merit—Communications Division, Childrens’ Lesson Solo prize. His first performing experiences came courtesy of his father, who began teaching him how to juggle when Braxton was about 12 years old. “I taught myself how to juggle because I was bored,” Sam McCollum reports, chuckling. “I was at the [Waynesburg] Harvest Festival with my mom when I was a kid, with nothing to do, so I picked up three nuts off of the ground, and started teaching myself how to juggle them.” As young Sam’s talents grew, he developed a successful stage juggling act. In later years, after having a family of his own, it was a natural progression to begin teaching his son. Sam shared his sense that a “cycle” of sorts had been completed, saying, “The interesting thing is that, the first time that Braxton ever juggled in public, it was at that same Harvest Festival where I first started teaching myself!” The father and son have developed a tandem juggling act, which they continue to evolve, using flaming clubs for some portions, and even bringing participants from the audience to join in the fun. “Our record right now is having five people stand between us while we juggle,” says Braxton. He smiles, perhaps a little too broadly, when he says, “We haven’t hit anybody. Yet…” In the McCollum family, everyone contributes to the effort. Braxton showed off a heavy duty bag that holds all of his juggling supplies, custom made by his mom, Lauren. Pointing out its many compartments and pockets, he says, “I’m really lucky, because my mom is a great seamstress. So, whatever I need, special clothing or things like this, she does a great job with it.” Not content to rest on his past accomplishments, Braxton has begun formal acting classes, has already retained the services of a talent agent in Pittsburgh, and has auditioned for two television commercials.
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In addition, he’s passionate about many facets of creating and performing music. “I’ve been taking bass lessons for four years, and I really enjoy it,” he beams. Experiences working in a mobile recording studio, laying down tracks for rap songs originally performed by his cousin, Jonathan “Rittz” McCollum (see sidebar), and re-imagining them for the Christian music genre, ignited his passions on a whole new level. “I’d love to learn more about recording, and how that technology works,” Braxton affirms. “It was so cool to have the headphones on, and just be able to hear the track, and rap to it; we got CDs in the end, and it’s just something that I really want to know more about.” [Editor’s Note: To see Braxton in action, just do a YouTube search on “Braxton McCollum,” where a wealth of videos can be found.] Braxton is already planning ahead, intent on studying acting and music at college, once his time in high school is finished. “I’m looking at NYU [Editor’s note: “NYU” is an acronym of New York University] or Carnegie Mellon University,” he says, though he and his family are also excited by the potential of his receiving scholarships through the Fine Arts program of the Assembly of God Church, where they are members, which provides tuition funding for students attending specific Christian colleges and universities. Wherever the road leads, Braxton clearly remains centered and grounded while aiming for the stars. Even his attitude toward success in a crowded entertainment industry flows with an unmistakable pragmatism: “It’s something my dad always tells me,” he reflects, “that, yes, it can be really hard to break into, but somebody has to do it.” With his dedication and desire to grow, Braxton McCollum could certainly end up being one of those “somebodies.” So, if you happen to meet Braxton, it would probably be a good idea to go ahead and ask for his autograph and a picture, now; it may be much more difficult to steal a moment of his attention, within a few years.
By Regis Whetzel
Puttin’ on the
The McCollum family tree oozes talent through every limb, and has branches that grow in every conceivable direction. While Braxton is experimenting with several different modes of performance, exploring to find out which ones best allow him to express his creative potential, one of his cousins is already making quite a name for himself, becoming established as a rapper whose “street cred” is on the rise, and whose touring schedule is filling fast. Jonathan McCollum—better known to his fans as “Rittz”—was born and spent the first eight years of his life in Waynesburg, before a career change necessitated a move to Atlanta, Georgia. The son of L. David and Connie McCollum, Rittz has worked hard to build his reputation as a serious rap artist. Recording with artists like Big Hud, Charlie P, Worldwide, Stevie Stone, and a host of others has built his chops and his roster of connections. It was his work on the song, “Box Chevy,” with Yelawolf, that began opening bigger doors for Rittz, who had once felt so defeated that, according to a recent interview with music news Internet site, “HipHopDX”, he was ready to give up rap, altogether. After a 2012 tour with Yelawolf, Rittz signed with the Strange Music label, working with well-known rapper Tech N9ne, and released his debut solo album, “The Life and Times of Jonny Valiant” in April of 2013. In October, Rittz received another career boost, and got a great deal of public exposure, when he performed on the nationally-televised 2013 BET (Black Entertainment Television) Hip Hop Awards. Right now, Rittz is on what can only be called a “whirlwind tour,” snaking his way around the country, traveling with his small entourage by bus to a variety of venues. From Tulsa to Las Vegas, through Arizona and California, into Washington, and—when we spoke—resting up in Boise, Idaho, preparing for a “meet and greet” with some fans prior to a big show. “The fans are just awesome,” said Rittz, “and a lot of the shows have been sold out, which is really great.” He sounds appreciative and eager, perhaps the result of putting such conscious effort into reaching his current level of achievement. He refers to his rise in popularity as a, “…slow, steady ascending career,” and seems genuinely thankful to see his efforts bearing fruit, paying attention to each step along the way. In spite of the dramatic upward shift in pursuit of his dreams, Rittz fondly remembers where it all began. “Greene County, that whole area, is still, like, sacred to me; it’s like my favorite place in the whole world,” he states reverently. His tour includes a stop at the Rex Theatre in Pittsburgh on November 24th, where it’s a sure bet that his hometown crowd will raise the roof in welcoming him back, even if it’s for only a short time, before he’s back on the road to the next gig.
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…Hope You’re Hungry… By Regis Whetzel
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here are lots of things to notice about the South Side Deli, on South Washington Street in Waynesburg, but the first that comes to mind is the “vibe” of the place. Maybe it’s the combination of aromas rising from the grill and the deli counter; maybe it’s the bright red stools planted at the lunch counter that make you want to sit down and have a cup of coffee and a newspaper; or maybe it’s the hustle of the ladies behind that counter, taking and preparing orders, bagging take-outs, and shouting food orders back and forth. Whatever it is, it makes the place feel very alive and inviting, with a sense that it has been there forever, though that’s hardly the case. The South Side Deli was first opened by Gary Kleinfelter in 1983, and was sold to Jim and Cindy Cebek a few years later. Recently, another big change came to pass, as the deli was purchased on June 1st of this year by new owners, Murray and Debbie Hoy. The Hoys have done a fine job of balancing the wire between “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” and the desire to make substantive, positive changes. They’ve overhauled the look of the deli with fresh paint, new lighting, and a huge menu board mounted on the wall behind the lunch counter that displays the vast array of good things to eat. Other changes may not be so noticeable, but are nonetheless very important: expanded hours, new kitchen equipment, and a new cash register system that now allows the South Side Deli to accept credit and debit cards are perfect examples. One area where the family has been sure to tread carefully at this popular lunchtime destination, however, is the menu. To keep up with contemporary demand, whole wheat buns and “wraps” are now available options for subs and sandwiches, but the traditional deli fare always offered has gone largely unaltered. As Debbie Hoy says, “There was no reason to change a good thing.” The real proof is in the eating, of course. The authentic deli salads are all made from scratch, and you can definitely taste the love. The egg, tuna, chicken, potato and macaroni salads, and the Italian-style pasta salad, as crafted by Debbie and her staff, remind me instantly of summertime picnics in the backyard. The macaroni salad, in particular, had me wondering when my mom had started making food to sell at restaurants. As a connoisseur of deli sandwiches, I can testify that there is just something special about a sandwich that is so filled with good things, that you have to eat it in stages—the first stage is eating the actual sandwich; the second stage is when you eat all the goodies that fell out of the sandwich, and onto your plate during the first stage. The abundantly-laden turkey reuben I had did not disappoint in this regard. The bread was fresh but not soggy, well toasted but not burnt. It was a perfect foundation on which to build the layers of hot sliced turkey, crunchy sauerkraut, melty cheese and Thousand Island dressing. During the grilling, the dressing had, in fact, “fused” with the sauerkraut in some miraculous way, creating a combination that was much tastier than the sum of its parts. I am already obsessively thinking about going back to try something different… The establishment is nothing if not “full service,” able to prepare subs, sandwiches, and meat and cheese trays for parties, events, or fundraisers. A full menu containing not only the traditional deli sandwiches, subs and salads, but also a selection of burgers, fries and tossed salads is ready to eliminate your hunger. The South Side Deli is opened Monday through Friday, 9am to 7:30pm; and Saturday from 9am to 3pm.
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Waynesburg Chamber Announces Halloween Costume Contest Winners
n October 31, the Waynesburg Chamber of Commerce held its “Halloween Spooktacular Downtown Merchant Costume Contest.” Many participated, all of them either employed within the borough, or Chamber members. Below is a list of all those who placed in a winning spot. Congratulations to the winners, and thanks to all who joined in the fun! Winners of the scariest, prettiest, funniest and most original each received $50 cash prizes donated by Community Bank, Direct Results, home of the GreeneSaver, Mark IV Office Supplies and Laick Design. The Best Overall costume and Best Group Costume each received $100 prizes donated by Waynesburg Gold & Coin Electronics and Rhodes and Hammers Printing. First Federal Savings & Loan Assoc. sponsored the treat bags that went to all participants, and the trophies.
The Best Group Award went to the “Jelly Bellies” of First Federal Savings & Loan Assoc. (L-R): Chrystal Allison, Kim Lawless & Katie Horr of First Federal Savings & Loan Assoc.
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Scariest 1ST PLACE: Mimi Ritenour - GHOUL Prettiest 3RD PLACE: Ashley Ritenour - ROSIE THE RIVETER 2ND PLACE: Deneen Chulick - DOROTHY/ TOTO 1ST PLACE: Candy Hoskins - MORTON SALT GIRL
WIZARD OF OZ Barbie Hunchuck, Beth Whipkey, Joey Rose, Christie Rice, Betsy Hawfield, Suzanne Plachta, Bobbi Henry, Lora Basinger
Funniest 3RD PLACE: Pam Lewis - UNCLE SI from Duck Dynasty 2ND PLACE: Crystal Simmons -VELMA 1ST PLACE: Lindsay Fitch - WAYNE TUCKIAN Best Group 3RD PLACE: TOM’S ANGELS Donna Tharp/Shelly Yourchik/Tom Headlee/Annette Tharp/Kim Spence 2ND PLACE: THE TIE BREAKERS Savannah Policz/Felecia Iams/Judy Cook 1ST PLACE: JELLY BELLIES - Kim Lawless/ Katie Horr/Chrystal Allsion Most Original 2ND PLACE: Tara Kinzell - JANIS JOPLIN 1ST PLACE: Cheri Wyant Phillips MAGIC 8 BALL Best Overall
With a pumpkin donated by Mother Earth Farm, Direct Results Graphic Designer Shane Gottschalk carved a jack-o-lantern, pictured here with Waynesburg Chamber Executive Director Melody Longstreth. The elaborate jack-o-lantern was part of the Best Overall Costume Prize Package.
Winners of the Best Overall Costume Award (L-R) Betsy Hawfield, Barbie Hunchuck, Christie Rice, Beth Whipkey, Suzanne Plachta and Joey Rose of First Federal Savings & Loan.
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The Challenge Program, Inc. Kicks Off Program at Jefferson-Morgan High School
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he Challenge Program, Inc., a regional non-profit organization designed to provide high school students with incentives for success, recently kicked off the program with an orientation and awards assembly at the Jefferson-Morgan High School. The program partners with businesses to motivate high school students to excel, both in and out of the classroom. Alpha Natural Resources serves as the sponsor of The Challenge Program, Inc. at the school. Five students from each of the sophomore, junior, and senior classes who excel in the areas of Attendance, Academic Excellence, Academic Improvement, The STEM Award, and Community Service this school year will receive an award in the amount of $200 for their efforts. The total amount of awards totals $3,000. During the assembly, junior and senior students who were randomly chosen from among those ranked in the top 10 percent of the award categories last year, were awarded checks of $250. Karen Zalom, Jordan Cario, and Lori Dayton with Alpha Natural Resources were on hand to present the awards. Since 2003, through the generous support of businesses, foundations, and individuals, The Challenge Program, Inc. has been introduced to more than 330,000 students, and checks totaling more than $2 million have been presented to over 8,000 high school students in more than 100 high schools in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio. For additional information about The Challenge Program, Inc., contact either Mary Dreliszak, Director of Program Development at 724.984.0860 or Barbara Grandinetti, Executive Director of The Challenge Program, Inc. at 814.533.7401.
Seated from left are: Aaron Horsley and Nathaniel Bianchi. Standing from left are: Jordan Cario and Karen Zalom (Alpha Natural Resources); David Blosser; Kyle Faddis; Autumn Summers; Duncan Alcorn; A.J. Klock ; Joshua Yeager; and Lori Dayton (Alpha Natural Resources).
SHOP
Ten Thousand Villages W
aynesburg University’s partnership with Ten Thousand Villages once again offers a unique shopping experience to our community during this holiday season – and does some “worldly good”, too. Open now on south Washington Street, the Ten Thousand Villages store is helping to provide artisans in developing countries a fair trade profit for their products. A large variety of merchandise such as jewelry, pottery, stationery, toys, wall art, candles, bowls and vases, picture frames and much more comes from 100 artisan groups in more than 30 countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America. In addition to providing a fair trade profit to the artisans, sales from the store also benefit the Waynesburg University Mission Trip Scholarship Fund. If you’ve never had the opportunity to visit Ten Thousand Villages store in the past, make this your year. You’ll be amazed at what you’ll find, how affordable fair trade can be and what fun you’ll have. It will only be open during the Christmas shopping season, so don’t miss out. Open now through Dec. 13th. Look for it across from the courthouse on South Washington Street. Store hours are Monday – Friday, 10am – 6pm, Saturday 10am – 2pm.
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Downtown Waynesburg Gets In the Spirit O
nce again the atmosphere of an old-fashioned Christmas with carolers and horse drawn wagons, twinkling lights, decorated store windows and street vendors bring the sights and sounds of the season alive in historic, downtown Waynesburg during the annual Holiday Open House, presented by Waynesburg Prosperous & Beautiful, Inc. The festivities begin at 5pm on Friday, Dec 6th, the evening before the annual Waynesburg Christmas Parade (always on the first Saturday of December), which is presented by the Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce . The two events have cooperated in recent years to become the historic downtown shopping district’s official invitation to begin holiday shopping. Saturday night, the festivities continue with the Winter Wonderland Gala at the Greene County Courthouse, presented by The Waynesburg Rotary Club, a crowning celebration to this Christmas Season kick off in downtown Waynesburg. On Friday night, several blocks of High Street will be closed to vehicular traffic, while pedestrians enjoy shopping and live entertainment. Over thirty merchants will extend their hours until 8pm, and offer special sales, door prizes and refreshments during Friday night’s activities. Horse-drawn wagons will carry riders through the decorated streets of town and the borough parks.
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Waynesburg University will present the Merry TUBACHRISTMAS concert live on the courthouse steps, under the direction of Dr. Rhonda Depriest, chair of the Waynesburg University Music Department. TUBACHRISTMAS is actually an annual event that is performed in over 250 cities throughout the United States and foreign countries. It was created by Harvey Phillips to honor his teacher, the late, great tubist William J. Bell. Every Christmas season, the performance features traditional Christmas carols especially arranged for the first TUBACHRISTMAS performance at Rockefeller Center in 1974, by American Composer Alec Wilder. The warm, rich organ-like sounds of the tuba-euphonium choir has won the ears and hearts of thousands – don’t miss this wonderful holiday tradition, free for all to enjoy on Friday night. Visitors will also be treated to the musical whimsy and beauty of our local Presbyterian Bell Choir, which will also be performing on the courthouse steps that evening. Even Santa Claus will make an appearance and be available for pictures with children by Ben McMillen Photography. On the sidewalks throughout downtown there will be burn barrels with lit fires for hand-warming and street vendors selling such sea- Don’t Miss Merry TUBACHRISTMAS concert performed by Waynesburg Unisonal treats as roasted nuts, baked versity students on Friday Night on the steps of the Greene County Courthouse. goods, hot foods and beverages to round out the holiday atmosphere. The courthouse Christmas tree will be lit Friday evening, thanks to the generosity of the Waynesburg Moose Lodge and Family Center. Another unique attraction back by popular demand is Flix on Brix. The holiday classic White Christmas will be projected on the side of a brick building for a bigger-than-life movie experience. There will also be a FREE gift wrap center – any and all packages or purchases made can be brought to the storefront at 30 West High and have them wrapped for free. The Annual Holiday Open House is being sponsored this year by CONSOL Energy. The Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce will present the 2013 Downtown Waynesburg Christmas Parade the next day, Dec. 7, beginning at 2pm. The execution of the parade is underwritten by Greene County Tourism. See page 25 for more on this historical Christmas event. On Saturday Evening, the Waynesburg Rotary’s Winter Wonderland Gala, from Horse-drawn wagon rides will be back at Holiday Open House 6-9pm inside the courthouse, is a stunningly beautiful presentation of holiday décor, as the halls & rooms are decked with displays from The Perfect Arrangement Floral and Gift Shop of Waynesburg, Mother Earth Farms of Ruff Creek and Main Street Floral of Mt. Morris. Specialty foods will be prepared by Hot Rod’s, The Lodge at Rohanna’s and Greene County Career & Technology Culinary Arts Dept; desserts by Jeannine Burkett. Entertainment will be provided by WCHS Choir, Ferdinand Dolfi, Heaven Bound Ministries, Nelson Fox, Amanda Frampton. Wine Tasting by Thistlethwaite Vineyards.
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THE NATIVE AMERICAN HARVEST
ong before the English or Spanish had ever set foot on American soil, the natives of this country worked their land methodically, giving it love and great praise. They did not debase their God given gifts, but treated them with much care. If they failed to do so, and were full of greed and gluttony, they could easily destroy their harvests for future needs. Many of the local tribes would avoid the winter months by heading down the Warrior Trail, deep into the heart of the south. Other tribes felt they should tough the harsh winters out, and began their preparations in early August. These celebrations of harvest would continue into October, and, if weather permitted, could even go into November. Such things as acorns and berries were sun-dried, while fish and meats were smoked and hung in lodges, or buried in food storage for the long, frigid winter. These celebrations of harvest also included work on villages and huts, as these shelters would be most vital if they were to survive the harsh conditions. Tree sap would be collected and used for repairing torn sections of hide stretched around their homes. Cattails, feather down, and moss were collected for hut insulation, as well as for the inner lining of clothing. At the height of their celebration, the Native Americans would submerse themselves in music, song, and dance. The passing of a smoke pipe was common, as was the giving of gifts and preparing feasts for the tribe. These celebrations, in many cases, would last up to a week, and if the chief felt the mood was right, he would prolong these events. As the first snowfall settled in, the families would huddle together during the long cold nights. Children would have dolls and games to keep themselves entertained, while the mothers would take to such various arts as sewing, and making things vital to her family. We should give more thought to the Native American culture, and learn from their tight knit bond. We would do well to take to heart their aversion to waste, such as when they would harvest a deer. They would immediately give thanks for the kill and would not squander a single part of the beast. It is easy today to overlook the little things when they are right before us. And, in a society where food is typically not scarce, the lessons of Thanksgiving may easily be passed by. God help us that we learn from the great Native American people, and that perhaps we might all take a step back and give more thanks for the little things in life‌ like the food on our table. May God bless your family this Thanksgiving.
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Habitat for Humanity The holidays are here, bringing thoughts and memories of home and family, so it’s an ideal time to spotlight an organization that enables many to have a home in which to create those family memories. This month’s Public Service Profile focuses on Habitat for Humanity, which has helped provide decent, affordable housing to Greene County residents since 1985, when the county’s Habitat chapter was formed. Executive Director Keith Davin articulates their overall philosophy with a calm, resolute passion. “Our goal is to have these families come through this program, and eventually own their homes,” he says. For the past 11 years, Keith has worked to achieve this goal, but the mission of the organization as a whole began much earlier. Born in 1935, Habitat for Humanity founder Millard Fuller was a very successful young man. A graduate of Auburn University in Alabama, and the University of Alabama Law School, he and a college friend began a marketing firm while still in school. Fuller’s business expertise and entrepreneurial drive made him a millionaire at age 29. But as the business prospered, his health, integrity and marriage suffered. These crises prompted Fuller to re-evaluate his values and direction. His soul-searching led to reconciliation with his wife, Linda, and to a renewal of commitment to his Christian faith. The Fullers decided to sell their possessions to begin a poverty housing initiative that would eventually become Habitat for Humanity International. Their work started in a racial-reconciliation community located near Americus, Georgia. They built modest houses on a no-profit, no-interest basis, thus making homes affordable to families with low incomes. Important Habitat concepts were pioneered: sweat equity, where each family was expected to invest their own labor into the building of their home and the homes of other families; and the “revolving fund”, where house loan re-payments were used to finance the building of even more homes. Locally, Habitat for Humanity has built or renovated 57 houses in Greene County. Volunteers are the lifeblood of the projects, according to Keith Davin. “90% of labor that goes into a home is volunteer,” he says, adding that their current project, renovating a home in Crucible, already has “thousands of volunteer hours” poured into it. Work groups from local colleges, including Waynesburg University, are essential, as are individual volunteers. While volunteers of all types are always welcomed, one area of particular need is what Keith calls “professional help”, adding that plumbers, electricians, gas line experts and various other tradespeople would be especially appreciated. While “regular” volunteers may be physically capable of doing these kinds of specialized work, having professionals on-site is often needed to insure that specific tasks are done according to building codes, not only to pass inspections, but also to make certain the homes are safely livable. If a professional tradesperson volunteer is unavailable, Keith says, there is no option but to hire someone, spending funds that could otherwise be devoted to other elements of the job. Fundraising is of vital importance to the ongoing mission of Habitat for Humanity. While many people volunteer their time and resources, there is still much that must be purchased when working on a project. Keith was enthusiastic about the “Sustained Giving” program, which is a way that supporters can provide an ongoing gift at a number of levels, depending on how much they wish to regularly donate. To learn more about Habitat for Humanity’s efforts throughout Greene County, or to donate or volunteer, please call 724-8522598, or visit www.greenecountyhabitat. net.
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We Love a Parade… By Regis Whetzel
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t’s impossible not to notice the changes all around; days become dramatically shorter, nights become far colder, and there’s suddenly a shocking new four-letter word being heard on the news: “snow”. But there’s something else in the air now besides the change in climate: the holidays are near, bringing thoughts of family and friends, remembrances of times past, and hope for the new year to come. Also close to our hearts as this time approaches are the traditions, old and new, that we carry with us all year in our memories, but that only emerge to be experienced during this special season. In this area, few are more meaningful (or more anticipated) than the annual Waynesburg Christmas Parade. This year’s event, sponsored by Greene County Tourist Promotion for the second year in a row, takes place December 7th at 2pm. Year after year, it stands as one of those unique events where, for many individuals and families, it simply wouldn’t be Christmas, without it. To the average spectator on the sidewalk, the parade is fun and colorful, and obviously very orderly, but may not appear to be all that complicated: everyone lines up, waits their turn, and starts to go, after all, isn’t that right? The horses clop-clop along, the cars drive in painful slowness while politicians and beauty queens wave, the bands march in formation, blowing and banging while the majorettes try not to look cold, and, just like the famous parade scene from the film, “Miracle on 34th Street,” Santa Claus brings up the rear, closing the parade, and opening the season. You might want to think twice before explaining the parade process so simply to Melody Longstreth, Executive Director of the Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce, who has organized and coordinated the event since 1986. “It’s pretty much a science,” she says. “It’s controlled chaos for 45 minutes until the parade starts.” When she brings the image of a street map up on her computer screen and begins talking organizational strategy, the tone of her voice and the look in her eye make one think more of a war room in the Pentagon, than of a pleasant Chamber of Commerce office area in the heart of Waynesburg. According to Melody, organization is the key, because communication can be very difficult, especially considering the extent to which the parade has grown over time. When she began, the parade typically featured 50 to 60 units—a “unit” being any discrete portion of the parade, whether an entire marching band, a float, or one person in a participating car. In 2012, though, 94 units were registered, and the record thus far took place in 2004, when 127 units joined in the festivities. Adding to the complexity is the fact that the parade is going to be televised by WCYJ, recorded live for broadcast at a later date. Because of this, every participant must be registered and assigned a place in the parade lineup by a deadline far enough in advance of the parade that commentators can be given an accurate list of who’s who, and the order in which they’re appearing. “It’s a pretty orchestrated dance,” reports Melody. Here are some things that you may not know about the Waynesburg Christmas parade, even if you’ve attended for your entire life: -The first parade was held on Saturday, December 3, 1938, at 1:30pm. -Parade organizers are careful to make sure that no one else in the procession dresses as Santa Claus, except for the actual one that concludes the parade. Even life size representations of Santa, like inflatable characters or float decorations, are highly discouraged. -Details, details, details… They’re kept so studiously, that, in recent years, Santa’s arrival time and the outside temperature have even been noted! In 2011, arrival was at 3:20pm, temperature 60 degrees Fahrenheit; in 2012, arrival was at 3:29pm with the temperature a balmy 63 degrees Fahrenheit. -Out of consideration for participants and spectators, when the weather is colder, parade units are sent out in just a little bit faster succession than when conditions are more bearable. -For many years, Santa arrived in an antique, 1925 American LaFrance fire engine. For the past two years, however, he’s come to town in a horsedrawn carriage, so that the fire engine could undergo restoration. Parade officials are hopeful that the restoration project will be complete for this year’s parade.
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McCracken Pharmacy Changes byOwnership Shelly Brown M
cCracken Pharmacy is nothing short of an iconic business in Waynesburg and Greene County, PA. Established in 1961 by Jack McCracken, this local drug store has progressed in all the right ways over the years, changing where change was needed while keeping personal service a tradition without change; very much in keeping with the slogan, “Today’s Technology, Yesterday’s Service.” Just recently, a very significant change has occurred, again, without a wrinkle in the service McCracken customers enjoy. And that was the whole goal, says new owner of McCracken Pharmacy, Scott Adamson. Yes, McCracken Pharmacy has been sold, and is now under the ownership of long-time pharmacist, Scott Adamson, who began his relationship with McCracken when he served an internship in 1992, and returned to a full time position with McCracken in 2000. In the words of Jeff McCracken, Jack’s son, the man who’s spent the last 30 years carrying on the tradition, and owner of the pharmacy at the time of the sale, “Scott is a wonderful pharmacist, he’s very compassionate and extremely intelligent… I think that customers will continue receiving the same kind of consideration and service that we provided for so many years. It feels good to know that. There’s certainly a comfort level in knowing that he has the same beliefs about customer care and will continue what’s most important in the business. “ From Scott’s perspective, that is exactly the goal. “I’ve worked here long enough to see how Jack McCracken, Tom Jackovic and Jeff McCracken ran this store, I’ve seen how they are received in this community and the good will that they have fostered over the years. For me to come along and have this opportunity to own this store – it is truly humbling. My goal is to maintain that supreme level of customer care and continue the relationships with the community. I feel honored to follow in these footsteps.” “When Jeff and I first discussed the sale, we both had the same idea – continuity. I wanted customers to experience no difference in the feeling of the place on Jeff ’s last day as there was the next day, or the day after that. I have no plans to change the reasons people deal with McCracken Pharmacy. We have to adapt to the changing procedures that come with health care insurance changes and that type of thing, but the level of service and involvement in the community – that will always be the same. I have the ultimate respect for what has been built here and I am honored to continue it.” There are still four pharmacists serving customers at McCracken. Scott is joined by Jeff McCracken says he will enjoy spending more Tammy Bryan, who has been there since 1999, Andrew family time after selling McCracken Pharmacy. Behm, who followed his internship with full time service He’s pictured here with wife Helen McCracken since 2010, and part-time pharmacist Mary Sue Crayne, and daughter (Miss Ohio) Elissa McCracken, along with the rest of the staff you know and appreciate at at the 2012 Holiday Open House in downtown McCracken Pharmacy. Waynesburg. So what is Jeff McCracken up to now that he has sold
the store? “Well I can tell you one thing I’m NOT DOING. I’m NOT selling my house and moving to Ohio, though there has been a rumor of that sort going around,” Jeff says with clarity. He is, however, taking advantage of the time to enjoy family. “My wife’s been retired for about two years, now. And I had always thought I would like to retire at 55 if I could manage it. Last year, as I spent more time away from the business when I accompanied my daughter Elissa on appearances she made while serving as Miss Ohio; I realized I really did enjoy that, and I really could leave the store. We do have an apartment in Columbus, where we spend time, but our home remains here in Waynesburg,” Jeff explains. “You know, for many years I typically didn’t take time off; I felt like I had to stay close to home because of the store. And I did really enjoy the business - I loved what I did for all that time, there’s no better way to say it. It’s in my heart and the people are the reason why. But times are changing now, with new regulations, it seems to be more about paperwork than people; that played into my decision some. Mostly, though, I just felt the need to spend more time with my family. It wasn’t a quick New Owner and pharmacist Scott Adamson of the decision. Knowing the right people were in place at Brave area, says customers and our community will the store made it easier to do, too. Even though it continue to enjoy the same level of service and supwas planned, I did do some second guessing myself, port that has always been a McCracken Pharmacy tradition. wondering whether I was doing the right thing by selling. When my brother John died, he was only one year older than me, it felt like a reinforcement of the plan, I knew then that I had my priorities right. I could hear my father’s advice in my head, ‘when you have a plan in place, stick to it.’ I knew then it was the right decision, and to follow it through.” Jeff says he plans to travel some, but don’t be surprised if he shows up every so often back at the pharmacy for a visit. He’ll be popping in pretty often, we imagine, which is a good thing. Because McCracken customers and the people of Greene County feel pretty much the same about Jeff McCracken, as he does about them: “I really enjoyed my career in serving the people of Greene County; what an honor. Greene County really does have some of the best people in the world, there is no doubt about it. The relationships and friendships I’ve made continue to be very special to me.” Even though he’s now “retired,” Jeff says he’s by no means finished. “Oh, I realize that at this age, I still have some work to do – there may be another career or calling for me. I don’t know what it is yet, but when the Good Lord lets me know, I’m ready to listen. I just hope it’s not tomorrow,” he adds with a laugh. The GreeneSaver wishes Jeff McCracken well, thank you for your outstanding service to your customers and our community. And welcome to the ship’s wheel, Scott Adamson. Congratulations on your accomplishment, we look forward to many more years of Today’s Technology and Yesterday’s Service, with you at the helm of McCracken Pharmacy.
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Evening Designed to Raise Breast Health Awareness
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outhwest Regional Medical Center hosted over 200 women at their annual Ladies Night Out event. This year’s event, themed, “There’s No Place Like Hope,” was designed to raise awareness for early detection and encourage women to schedule annual mammograms in keeping with the recommended guidelines.
The American Cancer Society recommends the following guidelines for most adults: • Annual mammograms starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as a woman is in good health • Clinical breast exams (CBE) about every 3 years for women in their 20s and 30s and every year for women 40 and over • Women should know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any breast change promptly to their health care provider. Breast self-exam (BSE) is an option for women starting in their 20s. • Women, who have a family history, a genetic tendency, or certain other factors, may require additional testing. Talk with your doctor Janet Mawhinney a 12 year breast cancer survivor shared about your history and whether you should have some of her experience with event attendees. additional tests at an earlier age. Throughout the evening, the diagnostic imaging staff provided tours of Southwest Regional’s digital mammography area and answered questions about their services. One attendee shared that she had the procedure the day before and it was not nearly as difficult as expected. Attendees also received information from many other vendors including, Domestic Violence Services; Alexander Mecs, MD, Obstetrics and Gynecology; Jason A. Smith, DO, Urologist; Darlene Saheta, DPM, Podiatry; Adagio, Susan G. Komen Foundation and the ACS Free Wig Salon. Massages, hair styling, waxing, shopping and photos were also available from many area vendors including: Massage Envy, Greene County Career and Technology Center, Jafra, Mary Kay, Avon, Sabika, Origami Owl, Celestial Photography, Classy Cuts, Autumn Woods, BeautiControl, Kelly Ankrom, RN and Director of Surgical Services Pampered Chef, Premiere Designs, Prayer Shawl and Dr. Jason Smith, DO, Urologist share information about a new surgical procedure to benefit urinary Ministries and the Lobby Shop. incontinence patients. “The event brought together businesses, individuals, physicians and cancer survivors to raise awareness for a great cause,” shared Joy Eggleston, senior public affairs officer. “This year’s event was our biggest and best yet.” Several survivors voluntarily came forward to share the importance of early detection and digital mammography screenings. Food, prizes and mocktails were also part of the evening’s events. For more information on breast health or scheduling your digital mammogram, please call 724-627-2622.
Attendees enjoyed browsing over 20 different booths from local businesses and physicians.
Darlene Saheta, DPM chats with an attendee as they browse the many educational events.
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