Holiday II GreeneScene Magazine by GreeneScene Community Magazine / Direct Results

HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

FEATURES 4

I LOVE THIS PLACE

GREENESCENE OF THE PAST

SHINING THE LIGHT

COUNTY CONVERSATIONS

PUBLIC SERVICE PROFILE

COOL AT SCHOOL

GOING GREENE

GREENE ARTIFACTS

GOOD NEWS IN GREENE

MESSAGE BOARD

HOMETOWN HERITAGE

Candy Cane Lane

Presbyterian Church Salvation Army

Children & Youth Services Social Service League

Thanksgiving Baskets at West Greene Guide to early research in Greene County A traditional century Christmas gift Awards & acknowledgements within our community Community announcements and opportunities A snapshot of Greene County sports

EXTRAS 20

SERVING OTHERS FOR CHRISTMAS

HERE COMES SANTA PAWS!

HO, HO, HOW MANY SANTAS?

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA

THE TURKEY HAS TROTTED

MAKING STUFF HAPPEN

WORKING LIKE A DOG

The Eagles free Christmas dinner helps those in need Presents Four Paws annual fundraiser helps Greene pets Bridget Vernon’s Santa collection is full of holiday cheer The annual event honors area veterans at Christmas Bowlby’s Turkey Trot results

Meet community member George ‘Bly’ Blystone The Waynesburg Beagle Club

: s u l P s to r e tt e L nta! Sa 2

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

I Love this P l ace

new street in Waynesburg made its debut this year, right next to the Greene County courthouse. Officially, it is known as Church Street. But for a few short hours during Holiday Open House it became Candy Cane Lane. Holiday Open House in Waynesburg is the first Friday in December and has everything an old-fashioned outdoor community celebration craves – burn barrels and wagon rides, music, food, movies, and children of all ages bundled up and hanging out with Santa and their friends. High Street is closed to traffic from late afternoon until 8 p.m. and the stores are open for holiday shopping as they’ve been for the last 90 years. What’s not to love about that? Especially the bundled-up children part. We have the elves of Candy Cane Lane to thank for that. It was a week after Holiday Open House and the back meeting room of CASA of Greene County – Court Appointed Special Advocates - was still lined with racks of coats and rows of shoes and boots of every size. Gloves and hats spilled over the tables in the front conference room and director Aaron Houser was beaming. We were sitting in the middle room where the walls are Arizona sky blue, waiting for the clouds and cloud dream creatures that Waynesburg University art students will soon be painting on them. Here’s where kids can play and relax while their parents are across the street at the courthouse, meeting with lawyers, counselors and doing other court appointed tasks. For CASA and its volunteer advocates it’s all about the children, making sure the judge recognizes their needs and can act accordingly as cases go through the legal system. This time of year staying bundled up is a priority for anyone. And this year, Houser and a host of other community service agencies were able to work together to offer winter wear to every kid who might need it, not just the children CASA advocates for. “We’re now the Greene County Nonprofit Partnership,” Houser said. “United Way started it and we’ve been meeting to reduce duplicated services and steer businesses interested in donating or volunteering to the projects that suit their goals.” Last year’s CASA winter shopping spree that Houser initiated at the office included hot cocoa for CASA kids newborn to age 18 during open house. Now it is a nonprofit and volunteer community project. When Houser found out that vendors would be set up on Washington Street this year, Church Street became the place “where we nonprofits could be together and show the public what services are available to families.” Calling it Candy Cane Lane was the brainchild of Tourism Director JoAnne Marshall and MaChal Forbes of United Way. On December 3,

CANDY CANE LANE By Colleen Nelson

families wandered down a festive, twinkling Candy Cane Lane meeting the agencies and people who could help them and ending at CASA, where the winter wear was waiting. “It was very exciting for the kids to do their own shopping rather than be handed something already picked out for them. It was all donated new or gently used. The community was very generous.” Houser said. Clothing for children in Foster Care is the specialty for Loved Again Charities, that is also part of United Way’s new nonprofit partnership. Loved Again helped gather these essentials and will warehouse leftovers for instant access as new needs arise. Festivities started on December 3 at 4 p.m. as the setting sun filled High street with its own scarlet light show. The sound of the Salvation Army bell was working its magic to draw people down Church street to put donations in the kettle as Miss Rain Day and Corner Cupboard Grinch posed for photos and kids searched for treats on every table. CASA and United Way booths were close to High Street, brightly decorated and full of volunteers ready to let passersby know what was available on Candy Cane Lane and escort kids to CASA’s department store for their shopping sprees. Cornerstone Care, a non-profit network of community health centers serving southwestern Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia, was there with information about its many services, including dental, medical, vision, pediatrics and behavioral health. For low income and underinsured families and individuals, sliding scale fees are available. Santa and Mrs. Claus had yet to make their appearance but the Grinch was there to let people know food is always available for families in need. The big produce truck with its helping hands logo was parked half way down Candy Cane Lane and Cupboard director Candace Webster had a table of goodies to share along with information for families and those who wish to participate in this year’s Virtual Food Drive. Tucked beside the pantry truck, DVSSP had a display of pamphlets that no one ever wants to need. But like every other service that is offered by the agencies that assist Greene County families and individuals in need, the services of Domestic Violence of Southwest Pennsylvania are confidential, free and can be accessed online A Holiday Open House attendee warms up by a fire barrel. at PeacefromDV.org.

Miss Rain Day 2021, Emily Bennett, welcomes visitors to Candy Cane Lane at Holiday Open House.

A Greene County youth receives a free winter coat from CASA at Holiday Open House.

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

G reen e Sce n e of the Pa st

he church that once stood on 32 Church Street in Waynesburg is long gone, but this postcard remains to remind us that high Gothic was quite the style in 1880 when the Presbyterians decided to upgrade from their modest meetinghouse on Morris Street and build something lofty and grand right next door to the Greene County Courthouse. The postcard is owned by Brice and Linda Rush, and is just one of the many rare historic snapshots digitized for the Greene Connections Archives Project. A quick Google search of the archives project finds a photo from the Waynesburg Borough archives of the Presbyterian Church Street choir, a beautifully captured moment from the turn of the last century. These Presbyterians of the old order were latecomers when they established themselves in Waynesburg in 1842 with 18 members. Cumberland Presbyterians had built their first “brick church on the hill” on the south side of the town commons on land that would soon become Waynesburg College 11 years earlier in 1831. According to historian G. Wayne Smith, during the “Second Awakening” of 1800, there were passionate month-long revivals in the hills of Tennessee. There, Cumberland Presbyterians broke from the established Presbyterian Church over “doctrinal differences and practices” and formed their own branch. Their self appointed ministers became missionaries for their frontier tempered view of Scripture. Revivals were held as they worked their way back East and by 1831, churches were established in Jefferson, Carmichaels and Waynesburg. Soon there were congregations at Clarksville, Muddy Creek, Jacksonville (Wind Ridge), Nineveh, Ten Mile, West Union, Clay Lick, and Hewitts as the new interpretation spread. By 1880, the new Presbyterian congregation had grown strong enough to build beside the courthouse and the narrow one-way street became Church Street. The gas and oil boom was underway and Waynesburg and its people were prosperous. When the church rededicated itself in 1894, it had a new 60-foot addition on its north side, electric lights, a handsomely frescoed interior and a boiler heating system with heat supplied “from the county buidings across the street.” A new parsonage was built at the corner of Richhill and Greene streets in 1897 and the Presbyterians of Church Street appeared ready for the 20th century. But reconciliation was in the air. A nationwide union between the two branches of the faith was approved in 1905 and

Waynesburg College altered its charter to recognize the merger. The congregations continued holding services in their respective churches as they planned their unification, which was agreed upon in 1913. Reverend Dr. James Edgar Wilson proposed building a new church at the corner of Richhill and College streets in 1922 and the cornerstone was laid September 20, 1925. W h e n the disastrous Downey House fire struck three months later, at 3 a.m. on December 23, sparks, driven by a strong west wind blew across the courthouse square from Washington Street and reduced the church to ashes. Brought together by circumstance, the two congrega-

By Colleen Nelson

tions would worship together at the Parish house of the Cumberland Presbytery on West High Street until the high columned Presbyterian Church you see today on Richhill Street was finished in 1927. GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

By Colleen Nelson

his month, Shining the Light takes to Some older volunteers in the eastern end of the streets. the county are still COVID-19 wary, but Jef“Be a sermon in your shoes,” is ferson and Carmichaels high school seniors what Mary Jane Dinsmore Kent, longtime stepped up to ring as has the VFW. There are master of Harveys Aleppo Grange puts at enough volunteers to ring two days a week the bottom of her emails – a downhome in Carmichaels and Dry Tavern this year, reminder, brothers and sisters, to help your Davis tells me. Waynesburg and Jefferson neighbors whenever you can. Baptists are taking shifts, as are members This holiday season, as the needs have of Waynesburg’s Presbyterians, Methodgrown with COVID-19 lockdowns, illness, ists and the Nazarene Church and WWJD job losses and kids home from school, those in West Waynesburg. The kettles around shoes became boots. A 30-plus congrega- Waynesburg are out three to four days a tion of caring churchgoers, VFW members, week near the weekend. Scouts, high school seniors, retirees and “I tell everyone that every penny stays everyday people took up the bell and kettle in Greene County,” Davis says. for Salvation Army and have been ringing This year, Salvation Army Project Bunacross the county from Waynesburg to Rices dle Up brought in coats for kids and overLanding. flows were shared through the partnership. It’s nearly impossible to catch new SalBack at the warehouse, volunteers are vation Army coordinator Bonnie Davis in keeping the doors open Monday through her office at 131 W. 1st Street Waynesburg Thursday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. with these days. She’ll be on the road from 9 a.m. offerings of clothing, household goods and ‘til dark until December 23 swapping out food staples for those in need. Need help kettles between the three-hour shifts that with rent, utilities or personal loss? Give a volunteers take at Carmichaels Shop & Save call and someone will get back to you. and Rices Landing and Waynesburg Giant If you want to be a sermon in your Eagles. Waynesburg Walmart has a kettle boots, the number is the same: 724-852and this year so does Big Lots. 1479. Davis, who came onboard in July to replace Sister Audrey Quinn, hit the road running and is delighted with the community support she’s receiving through community volunteers and United Way’s Greene County Nonprofit Partnership. “This county is amazing – they pull together. There’s no way I could run the center without my volunteers. And Sister Audrey is always there when I call,” she tells me on her cell phone when I finally catch up with her. “We’re doing really well so far but Volunteers ring the bell in Waynesburg at Holiday Open House we can always use in December. more volunteers.”

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

County Conversations HUMAN& SOCIAL SERVICES

CHILDREN & YOUTH SERVICES

hildren deserve to be safe and protected from abuse and neglect. A safe, nurturing environment provides both emotional and mental well-being for children and is best provided by their family. However, some families need help to maintain the safety and well-being of their children. That’s when Greene County Children and Youth Services steps in. They work with families to provide that safe and nurturing environment for children in need. The mission of Greene County Children and Youth Services is to provide for the immediate safety and protection of children from abuse and neglect, to keep children with their own families whenever possible, to provide temporary substitutive care of children when necessary and to reunite children with their families as quickly as possible after placement. The department is a social service agency working with a variety of protective services related to General Protective Services (GPS) and Child Protective Services (CPS) cases, while linking the families to service providers. To maintain a safe and nurturing home environment, the department connects families with services that will help them get through whatever challenges they may be struggling with. Should the families be unable to resolve situations within the home, the department assists with potential adoptions so that children

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may have a permanent supportive home. Mark Starostanko says that the biggest challenge facing the department is dealing with misconceptions of Child Protective Services. “The agency’s first and foremost goal is to protect children while also being a provider of services agency to preserve and attempt to keep intact family structures. The removal of children within a family structure is a last resort.” The department’s staff has both seasoned and newer staff that provide a unique mindset and fresh ideas. This mindset makes the department available to present family preservation as a top priority for the families within the county. To report child abuse, call 1-800-9320313; mandated reporters can report online at www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis/public/ home. For 24-hour emergency calls, call 911 and ask for the CYS on-call supervisor. FMI on Greene’s Children and Youth Services, call 724-852-5217.

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

Public Service Profile By Bret Moore

SOCIAL SERVICE LEAGUE

elevision personality Bob Keeshan once said, “Generosity has built America. When we fail to invest in children, we have to pay the cost.” The women of the Waynesburg Social Service League have embraced and embodied that philosophy for 100 years. The organization is celebrating its centennial this year by continuing its mission to promote the physical, mental, and social well-being of the children of Central Greene School District. The group traces its 1921 genesis to well-known patron Miss Josephine Denny and 54 other local philanthropic women. The League is a non-profit women’s organization that provides a myriad of services for economically disadvantaged children and their families. The members work with school personnel to identify the students and their specific needs. Those needs include such things as clothing, food baskets, educational materials and even Christmas presents. The educational contributions include everything from providing newlyregistered kindergarten students with reading books to a couple of $1,000 scholarships for seniors to attend college or a technical school. In addition, the group has historically provided financial support for such youthcentered activities as the Lions Club Halloween Parade, the Waynesburg Playground Summer Camp, Bowlby Library, the Greene County Historical Society, Little League sports programs, and the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. The women also sponsor the annual Easter Egg hunt in College Park. Throughout the years, the group has even provided dental and eye care for students, sponsored circuses, and purchased swing sets for local schools. Early on, the League actually brought in speech therapy programs to the schools before that was a regu-

lar part of educational services. The funds are primarily raised through their extremely popular Holiday Craft Show, a golf tournament and member donations. In the past, the women have organized charity fashion shows, card parties, garage sales and bus tours to meet their goals. In the second half of the 20th century, the League’s holiday dances were the social events of the season. They were held in the old Fort Jackson Hotel, the Armory, the Elks, and the Moose Club. Popular local entertainers such as Dusty Rhodes’ Berets (1959), the Johnny Cimino Orchestra (1964), Colony (1978) and Sounds Unlimited (1987) reflected the changing musical tastes, while the immutable mission of the women endured. Another popular fund raiser many may remember was the annual sale of the cookbook the group published. According to the club’s records, the 1975 edition cost locals $2.50. Today, the group’s current membership is 43 active women and 34 sustaining financial contributors. The officers include president, Donna Dorazio; vice president, Candy Mahle; treasurer, Shelley Younken and secretary, Lacey Gooden. According to Dorazio, “Over the past 100 years, we’ve been lucky to have generations of hardworking, caring ladies to keep this organization going.” One such lady is Fran Hardy, the League’s longest-serving member. For 47 years, she has served a variety of roles in the organization because “it just makes you feel good.” Dorazio also wished to thank the many local businesses for their generous donations throughout the years. Those 55 altruistic women who began this tradition of compassion a century ago would undoubtably be pleased with this abiding investment in the future of Greene County’s children.

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hat’s “cool at school” for this month is the annual food basket distribution supplied by the West Greene High School to their community. Each year the West Greene High School partners with the Rogersville United Methodist Church to distribute Thanksgiving Day baskets filled with turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, cranberry sauce, rolls, pumpkin pie and more to families in the district. There are 643 students enrolled in the middle through senior high schools in the district. The number of families that experience an economic need for assistance within this demographic is approximately 40%. Joining the United Methodist Church with donations for this year were EQT, a bikers organization introduced through David Fethman, and an anonymous individual; these donors helped them provide 40 baskets for distribution to community families. This tradition started in the early years of the millennium when Teresa Simms asked the Rogersville Methodist Church members and West Greene school staff and members for help in finding families to receive their annual Christmas giveaway. The next year they were approached for Thanksgiving and soon the tradition was born. It has grown to include numerous staff, community members

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Co o l at Sc h oo l WEST GREENE SCHOOL DISTRICT

and organizations like the Bonar scholars and ous years through the generous donations of those involved.” Wiggle Room account. Many of those contributing to the event Organizing this years’ event, which took place on November 22, 2021, was Erin Shi- also provided their time to shop and make flett, a Lead Support Teacher for the West the baskets that were distributed. There were Greene School District. This was Erin’s first eight baskets supplied through the church, year managing the event. When asking Erin five from the biker group, 15 organized by how this year was different than any other EQT, 10 provided by Erin and her kids, and year disCarter (L) and Evan (R) help prepare the Thanksgiving baskets. tributing baskets she said, “ T h e n u m ber of families we were able to p rov i d e a basket to increased significantly f r o m previ-

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

By Rochelle McCracken one from a community member. Planning for the event begins in late October. Erin reaches out to families wanting to receive a basket by advertising the event through various social media platforms. Families that want a basket are asked to complete a reservation form and submit it. When talking with Erin about this event and the West Greene School Districts (WGSD) participation through the years in various community driven projects, she credits WGSD for always providing for the kids and families in the area. During the past year, even when school was not in session, buses were dispatched to deliver food to families. “The WGSD does a phenomenal job of busing food to the families,” Erin said. Erin states they are working on a similar distribution of food baskets for the Christmas holiday. While during the holiday season the distribution of baskets are the focus of giving, nutritional and hygiene items are provided to the kids throughout the year. To find out more about the Thanksgiving and holiday food baskets provided in the West Greene School District area contact Erin Shiflett at shiflette@wgsd.org, 724-499-5191 ext. 2218.

G o in g G re e n e

A GUIDE TO EARLY RESEARCH IN GREENE COUNTY

he cold days of winter are quickly approaching, and many folks will begin their seasonal hibernation. With it too cold to work and play outside, indoor projects and activities will soon engage all of us as we await the warming weather in the spring. This is the best time of year to dig deep into genealogical and historical research, and if you are new to the field, it may be helpful to get a few hints and tips on how to successfully research the early history of Greene County and uncover the rich and fascinating secrets of our local past. Greene County was formed on February 9, 1796 by an act of Legislature which separated it from Washington County. John Minor, an officer during the Revolutionary War and prominent pioneer citizen was largely responsible for this act, and has thus been remembered to history of the father of Greene County. But there is much more to our local history than facts paired with dates, and there are many ways to uncover the stories of events and people who once called Greene County home. Luckily, the people of Greene County have always held a deeply rooted interest in preserving the historic past of this small region west of the Allegheny Mountains. Throughout the 19th century, several individuals interviewed and recorded accounts from still living pioneer citizens and their children who had direct knowledge of the pioneer and frontier days. Early settlement in this region began in the mid 1760s, however throughout the 1750s there were folks who traveled through Greene County and set up small non-permanent settlements. Unfortunately, there are practically no official records that exist from this time, and sparse records for the last quarter of the 18th century. Records in the courthouse in Waynesburg begin in 1796, and some sparse records from between 1781 and 1796 can be found in the Courthouse in Washington, as our area was part of Washington County at that time. The best source for accounts for the late 18th century can be found in books such as L. K. Evans “Pioneer History of Greene County Pennsylvania” which is a compilation of newspaper articles on various subjects written by Evans and published in a local news paper leading up to the U.S. Centennial celebrations in 1876. Evans interviewed area residents who had personal knowledge of events that happened in the early years of this region’s history. Evans addresses many of our earliest settlers such as Colonel John Minor, the Swan and VanMeter families, Indian attacks and many other interesting events. Professor A. J. Waychoff of Waynesburg University, then Waynesburg College, would build on Evans’s work in his 1925 “Local History of Greene County.” There are several other sources for early historical information in Greene County. Samuel P. Bates 1888 “History of Greene County Pennsylvania” gives an excellent account of the county from the earliest settlement up through 1888. It contains biographical sketches of residents who were living in the county at that time, many of which give some history of their genealogical roots. Hanna’s “History of Greene County” also is an excellent source of information. Beyond that though, there are several other books that

By Matthew Cumberledge

really dig deep into the early history of the county. Sherman Day’s “Historical Collections of the State of Pennsylvania,” and I. D. Rupp’s “History of Western Pennsylvania” both originally published in the 1840s specifically focus on late 18th and early 19th centuries, and specifically, Rupp’s History of Western Pennsylvania has quite a bit of focus on frontier and settlement times. They also make for a fascinating read. The journals of Christopher Gist, give a very good firsthand account of explorations through what is now Greene County in the 1750s and the situation with Native Americans, and is well followed up by Wither’s “Chronicles of Border Warfare”, one of the best primary sources on the frontier wars in this region in the late 18th century. For records on specific people however, sources are a lot more limited. Perhaps the best book source for genealogical data is Howard Leckey’s “The Tenmille Country and It’s Pioneer Families.” Leckey did the bulk of his research throughout the 1940s and his book is a remarkably accurate and comprehensive source of information on many early families in Greene County. The museum often gets questions asking where to find a marriage record or birth record for someone in the late 18th century, and unfortunately in many instances this information simply may not exist. This is one of the most difficult areas of research in the county. Few records exist, but there are ways to find things out. Wills and deeds held at the Courthouse, or the Washington County Courthouse for the years prior to 1796, will often list children and spouses and many family connections can be made that way. Late 18th century and early 19th century appearance dockets can also be found at the courthouse. Appearance dockets are records of testimony given before a judge, either as part of a trial or other depositions and can occasional be a wealth of information. You may even be able to find early “Oaths of Allegiance” to the United States and references to family relationships in court cases. The single best source for birth, marriage, and death records, can often be in Revolutionary War pension records. A quick Google search can lead you to websites such as Fold3 where this information can be accessed. Often in the testimony given for a war pension, family bible records were submitted and other documents that would tie a soldier to his spouse and children. This information can be invaluable. And then, there is no substitute for old fashioned “dig into a book” research. Again, Greene County is lucky to have had so many people in the past be dedicated students of local history, and as such, we have one of the best genealogical libraries in the country. Cornerstone Genealogical Society, located in the old log courthouse on Greene Street, open by appointment, archives a huge collection of documents, research and books that provide a wealth of information. A visit to their library and searches through their books and files can often yield successful results. The Greene County Historical Society also has a small library that can be made available by appointment, but the primary focus of the GCHS is the preservation of artifacts that directly relate to anything and everything you would be finding in your research.

Finding facts and information from the early history of Greene County can often be a difficult task, but the rewards are well worth the effort. The history of Greene County played a significant role in the history of the nation, something many people do not realize. Genealogical and historical research can open the doors that show us just how we fit into this larger picture. Many of the books mentioned above can be found for free online via google books, hard copy reprints can be found via various sources from a simple google search. The books that are the most specific to Greene County can generally be found quite easily as well on the internet or from a call or email to either Cornerstone Genealogical Society or the Greene County Historical Society. Hopefully, this research guide will get you off to a good start on how to begin to research early history in Greene County, and maybe will give you an excellent new hobby that will help the winter fly by!

First edition copies of Rupp’s “Western Pennsylvania and Days Historical Collections of Pennsylvania”.

Cornerstone Genealogical Society GreeneScene Community Magazine •

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WVU IS JUST RIGHT. Your dream college experience is right down the road (but just far enough away) and is more affordable than you think. West Virginia University is an R1 school with big events, big-time athletics and big scholarships — all with the feeling of a tight-knit community. Just ask Greene County native Joel “Stush” Ferek. “I won the Scholarship of Distinction and was one of the four winners of the John Chambers Scholarship. Having to pay a lot less and stay near home made the decision to choose WVU easy,” he said. “It is nice to be by your family and know the area. You don't get homesick, as it's easy to go back whenever you want. It's amazing how many options there are at WVU.” Is WVU just right for you? Find out at go.wvu.edu/greene21.

JOEL “STUSH” FEREK

Hometown: Carmichaels, PA Class: 2025 Major: Management Information Systems

HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

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

A TRADITIONAL CENTURY CHRISTMAS GIFT

any of us in the modern era look back on a traditional Christmas with quite a bit of romance, and rightfully so. The elegant simplicity of decorations, hand crafted ornaments and thoughtful gifts make the perfect recipe for fond memories. In 1893, when Sears and Roebuck came out with their first catalog, Christmas changed forever. Over the coming years, children would peer through the pages looking for the perfect toys that Santa might leave for them under their tree or in their stocking at Christmas. Long before the advent of electronics and fancy games, simple forms of entertainment were often very popular. One of the most common items in homes around the turn of the century, and a common Christmas gift, was a stereo viewer. This small novelty item was a viewer that you could place up to your eyes with a card held in a mount that had two images on it. When you looked upon it, the stereo viewer would make it appear three dimensional. Surely something magical to those who first looked into a new world provided by the many cards that were available for the stereo viewer. In a 1909 Sears, Roebuck & Co. catalog, the very stereo viewer shown in the photograph with Father Christmas could be found at the price of 49 cents. Cards could be purchased in sets, often in groups of 12, and in some cases in sets as large as 50, often with various themes all for well under 50 cents. One specific set included images of the operations at the Sears, Roebuck, & Co. itself, while others showed famous and historic landmarks around the world, beautiful scenes of Victorian

home life, sports, nature and exotic destinations. Local photographers were also able to make cards with local scenes. Many such exist in the collection of the Greene County Historical Society, with views of Waynesburg, farms through out the county and events that took place around the turn of the century. Father Christmas in the photo is holding up a card that came from a holiday set that shows a hand-colored depiction of the Nativity. Stereo viewers can still be found in production today, often with cards that depict historical events. Photos from the Civil War are now a popular choice in cards that come with newer stereo viewers. This viewer and many others can be viewed at the Greene County Historical Society, and often if you ask our staff, they will allow you to place a card in the mount and look back in time to a three-dimensional image, much in the way children might have done on a Christmas morning over a hundred years ago!

Grave Creek Mound in Moundsville, WV.

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Dear Santa, My name is Layla and I am 7 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I fed my kitty and I helped my Mom pick up all of our books. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me a Lego table and five Lego kits to go with it? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will leave some cookies and milk out for you. I will have some carrots for your reindeer and reindeer food out on the ground by our house. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Layla Pierce

Dear Santa, My name is Hadlee and I am 6 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I helped take out the trash and I shared the swing with my sister. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me an LOL Surprise Ball and a Snackin’ Grogu? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will put out some milk and cookies for you. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Hadlee Cramer

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• GreeneScene Community Magazine

TRPIL/VFI Thanksgiving Drive Thru Dinner

National Guard Association Names Waynesburg U. One of PA’s “Best of the Best” Waynesburg University was named one of Pennsylvania’s “Best of the Best” by The Pennsylvania National Guard Association (PNGAS) during the 2021 PNGAS awards ceremony Friday, Nov. 12, at the Lancaster Convention Center. PNGAS Chairman of the Board Chad Rettew stated, “We are very pleased to recognize excellence in service and duty across Pennsylvania in support of our troops, all veterans and the soldiers and airmen of the Pennsylvania National Guard, and their spouses and families.” “While we have 18,000 members of the Pennsylvania National Guard, it takes many thousands more to fulfill our state and national mission. The Guard Awards provide a way to say thank you and inspire us all to work together for the common good,” Rettew added. Twelve high schools and thirty-eight colleges, trade schools and universities were recognized. To date, 51 high schools have earned the designation PNGAS Guard Friendly High School, and 55 colleges, universities and trade schools have earned the designation PNGAS Guard Friendly School. “More than ever, recruiting and retention are linked to education, tuition benefits and advancing professional development,”

said Kathleen Fabrizi, executive director of PNGAS. “With the PNGAS Guard Awards and Guard Friendly programs, we want to amplify and promote the schools that are delivering excellence to our Guard members, veterans, spouses and families.” Waynesburg University is committed to serving the needs of the veteran and activeduty military student population and was awarded PNGAS Guard-Friendly School Designation in May 2021. Waynesburg University also participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, a special assistance program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, with no limitations on the number of enrollments, grants or credits taken. Additionally, the University offers a variety of benefits for veterans and their families, including the acceptance of joint service transcripts, the Military Family Education Program, priority registration for veteran and military students, and a10% tuition discount on Graduate & Professional Studies (GPS) courses for Active Duty Military, National Guard, Reserve Forces and Veterans (all branches). Qualifying programs include Online Degree Completion, RN-BSN and all masters and doctoral programs. A comprehensive list of programs can be found online.

Both WHS Hospitals Nationally Recognized with an ‘A’ Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade Washington Health System (WHS) is proud to announce that both of their hospitals, WHS Washington Hospital and WHS Greene, received an “A” Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade for fall of 2021. This national distinction recognizes WHS Washington Hospital and WHS Greene’s achievements in protecting patients from harm and error in the hospital. The Leapfrog Group, an independent national watchdog organization, assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,” or “F” grade to general hospitals across the country based on over thirty national performance measures reflecting errors, injuries, accidents and infections, as well as systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only hospital ratings program based ex-

clusively on hospital prevention of medical errors and harms to patients. The grading system is peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. Grades are updated twice annually, in the fall and spring. “An ‘A’ Safety Grade is a tremendous achievement, of which this community should be extremely proud,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “I thank the leadership and workforce of WHS Washington Hospital and WHS Greene for its commitment to prioritizing patients and their safety, especially during these trying times.” To see WHS’s full grade details and to access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit HospitalSafetyGrade.org and follow The Leapfrog Group on Twitter and Facebook.

John Moore, staff member for TRPIL/ VFI, is shown with David Iams of Washington receiving his fixings for a Thanksgiving dinner at the TRPIL/Voices for Independence’s Thanksgiving drive thru. A reusable mug with stainless steel straw was included along with cranberries, green beans, corn, boxed stuffing, gravy, boxed mashed potatoes, turkey breast, and homemade pumpkin roll. Recipes were included in the bag. This is the second year TRPIL has provided the service. The organization hopes that next year the event will be held in person at their new facility at 42 West Maiden Street, Washington. FirstEnergy staff members volunteered their time to pack the bags for the drive thru. From left are Mark Dorazio, Jane Henderson, Jacob Fisher, and Makinley Higginbotham. Randy Durr, manager of regional external relations also presented a $5,000 check to the organization from the FirstEnergy Foundation.

Nursing Program Receives Funding for White Coat Ceremony The Waynesburg University Nursing Program was recently a recipient of grant funding from the Arnold P. Gold Foundation to initiate its inaugural White Coat Ceremony. The ceremony was held Saturday, Oct. 23, in Roberts Chapel on the University’s main campus. “Since 1993, the White Coat Ceremony has been an early and essential touchpoint of humanism on the path of a physician,” said Dr. Richard I. Levin, president and CEO of the Gold Foundation. “Today…the White Coat Ceremony is all the more relevant in emphasizing the importance of the human connection in healthcare. We are grateful for the leadership of Waynesburg University in elevating the message, both during the ceremony and throughout the years of education, that empathy and respect are critical parts of optimal care.” The White Coat Ceremony is a rite of passage to emphasize the importance of compassionate patient care at the very start of the educational program. Waynesburg’s event included remarks by Waynesburg University President Douglas G. Lee and Dr. Kathy A. Stolfer, director and chair of the Department of Nursing. A virtual keynote address was presented by Dr. Deborah Trautman, PhD, RN, FAAN, president and CEO of the American Association of Colleges and Nursing (AACN). Dr. Trautman was introduced by Dr. Lorraine Frazier, PhD, RN, FAAN, FAHA, dean of the Columbia University School of Nursing and a Gold Foundation trustee, and

Dr. Kellie Bryant, DNP, WHNP, CHSE, assistant dean of Clinical Affairs and Simulation Center at the Columbia University School of Nursing. Also in attendance were faculty members of the Department of Nursing, who pinned students as they came forward in their newly donned white coats. The White Coat Ceremony was initiated in 1993 at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons by Dr. Arnold P. Gold, MD, a professor and pediatric neurologist. According to the Gold Foundation, Dr. Gold was a passionate advocate for humanistic healthcare. He and his wife, Dr. Sandra Gold, started The Arnold P. Gold Foundation, which has expanded the White Coat Ceremony internationally. Today, nearly every medical school in the United States, hundreds of nursing schools and many other health profession schools around the world participate in this tradition. The application process is managed by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

WCHS Students of the Month (November) The students of the month for November are Clara Paige Miller and Colton Stoneking. Clara Paige Miller is the daughter of Bryan Miller of Waynesburg. Clara Paige has earned a 4.0 GPA throughout high school. At WCHS Ms. Miller has been a member of the National Honor Society, the AlphaBeta Club, the Spanish Club the Aquaponics Club and Student Council. She was voted the 2021 Waynesburg Central Homecoming Queen. Clara Paige loves sports. She is a 4-year basketball letterman and a 3-year track and field letterman. Basketball is her true passion. She has been selected as first-team All Section, and second-team All District. In her free time she volunteers to teach basketball to younger athletes. When Clara Paige is not participating in sports she enjoys watching them with her friends and family. Ms. Miller attends the First United Methodist Church of Waynesburg. In the summers she works as a lifeguard.

Clara Paige’s future plans are to attend college and pursue a degree in the medical field, and play basketball. Colton Stoneking is the son of Lynn and Phil Stoneking of Waynesburg. Colton has earned a 4.0 GPA in high school. While in school Colton has been a member of the Future Business Leaders of America. Colton lives to wrestle. He has been an avid wrestler for years. He was a member of the State Champion Waynesburg Wrestling team in 2020. He was 5th in the state in the individual competition. He has even served as a volunteer for the Waynesburg Youth Wrestling Tournament. Outside of school Colton enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with friends. He also works doing lawn care and as a camp counselor at the EQT

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rec center. Colton’s future plans are to attend college where he can wrestle and pursue a degree in business and graphic design.

WCHS Students of the Month (December) The students of the month for December are Alexandra Schultz and Ryan Lin. Alexandra is the daughter of Kris Schultz and Cindy Orndoff of Waynesburg. She has earned a 4.0 GPA throughout high school. She has been a member of the National Honor Society, the Aquaponics Club and the FFA. The FFA has been a huge part of Alex’s life. She has served as the President of the Waynesburg Chapter of the FFA for the past year. She has earned the prestigious FFA Keystone Degree. Outside of school, Alex enjoys raising meat rabbits, baling hay and spending time with family. She also works as a waitress at Bob Evans. She attends the Pigeon Creek Presbyterian Church. Alex’s future plans are to attend WVU and earn a degree in petroleum engineer-

HOLIDAY II 2021

ing.

Ryan Lin is the son of Qiug Song Lin and Yu Jin Zhu of Waynesburg. He has carried a 4.0 GPA throughout high school. At WCHS he has been a member of NHS, Student Council, Physics Club, Leo Club, Spanish Club and Academic League. Ryan is the treasurer of the senior class. He has also trained with the marching, concert and pep bands playing the French horn and mellophone. Ryan has earned several awards from the Challenge Program for STEM and community service. He has also been awarded the gold seal. Outside of school Ryan works at his parents’ restaurant, China 88. Ryan’s future plans are to attend college and major in mathematics.

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

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Catnip Acres 2022 Schedule Cat Spay/Neuter Dates Call 724-833-0954 to schedule. Jan. 9 Intake Jan. 8 Jan. 22 Intake Jan. 21 Feb. 12 Intake Feb. 11 Feb. 26 Intake Feb. 25 Mar. 12 Intake Mar. 11 Mar. 26 Intake Mar. 25 Apr. 9 Intake Apr. 8 Apr. 23 Intake Apr. 22 May 14 Intake May 13 May 28 Intake May 27 June 11 Intake June 10 June 25 Intake June 24 July 9 Intake July 8 July 23 Intake July 22 Aug. 13 Intake Aug. 12 Aug. 27 Intake Aug. 26 Sept. 10 Intake Sept. 9 Sept. 24 Intake Sept. 23 Oct. 8 Intake Oct. 7 Oct. 22 Intake Oct. 21 Nov. 12 Intake Nov. 11 Nov. 26 Intake Nov. 25 Dec. 10 Intake Dec. 9

Dental (Cats/dogs) and Dog Spay/Neuter Call 724-627-0846 to schedule. May 4 Sep. 14 Jan. 5 May 11 Sep. 21 Jan. 12 May 18 Sep. 28 Feb. 2 June 22 Oct. 5 Feb. 9 June 29 Oct. 12 Feb. 16 July 6 Oct. 19 Feb. 23 July 13 Oct. 26 Mar. 2 July 20 Nov. 2 Mar. 9 July 27 Nov. 9 Mar. 16 Aug. 3 Nov. 16 Mar. 23 Aug. 10 Nov. 23 Mar. 30 Aug. 17 Nov. 30 Apr. 6 Aug. 24 Dec. 7 Apr. 13 Aug. 31 Dec. 14 Apr. 20 Sep. 7 Dec. 21 Apr. 27 Rabies Clinics Mar. 6 11 am to 3pm Oct. 2 11 am to 3pm

WCHS Cinderella Ball Court

From bottom to top - Freshmen: Bryn Lahew, J.J. Martinez. Sophomores: Brynn Kirby, Ben Maxwell. Juniors: Loren Schroyer, Nate Jones, Emily Mahle, Drew Layton. Seniors: Brenna Benke, Matthew Ankrom, Nina Sarra, Colton Stoneking, Madison McMasters, Ethan Maxwell

Carmichaels NHS Winter Blood Drive Spread cheer! Come give on Dec. 22 for an exclusive long-sleeved Red Cross Tshirt, limited quantity! Maximize your blood donation. Help more patients. If you are an eligible type O, B - or A - donor, consider making a Power Red donation. Red blood cells are the most commonly transfused blood component. Please Call 1-800 RED CROSS or visit RedCrossBlood.org and to schedule an appointment. On Wednesday, December 22 11am to 4:30pm at the American Legion Post 400 Banquet Hall, 205 E George St, Carmichaels, PA 15320.

New Recycling Contract Saves Greene $$ Greene County Commissioners and the United Mine Workers of America Career Centers, Inc. (UMWACC) have reached a new parcel lease agreement, ensuring Greene County residents recycling opportunities for the next five years and saving money. The Greene County recycling center consists of a county owned building and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) equipment on a less than two-acre lot in Ruff Creek. The expiring ten-year lease of that parcel from the UMWACC has cost Greene County taxpayers nearly $400,000. The original contract signed by then County Commissioner Pam Snyder in 2011, contained incremental increases in the lease agreement culminating at a $48,000 annual cost to lease the small parcel. Approaching the expiration of the agreement, it was reviewed by solicitors, real estate experts, the DEP, the county treasurer and others who could not substantiate the exorbitant cost associated with this lease agreement. Unable to discover the reason for the cost of the previous agreement, current Greene County Commissioners requested a five-year, low-cost extension of the lease through the UMWACC. That request was approved, reducing the annual cost of the lease to one dollar per year. The Greene County recycling program is offered to residents and businesses through a cooperative relationship between the County of Greene, Greene Arc, Inc. and Gateway Recycling. Greene Arc, Inc. is a private, nonprofit corporation providing residential, vocational, day support, job support, job opportunities, advocacy and mental health/recovery services to citizens with disabilities from Greene and surrounding counties. The recycling center located at 197 Dunn Station Road, Prosperity, PA 15329 serves private citizens who individually deliver products for recycling. The facility is open to the public Monday through Friday, 9:30am – 1pm. A staff member will examine your products to ensure they are acceptable. This will not be a “drop & go”. Greene Arc is unable to accept aluminum products (pop, soda and beer cans) at this time. If non-acceptable material is rec-

ognized by the staff, the citizen will need to return that to their home. You will not be permitted to use the dumpsters to dispose of products on site. County taxpayers bear a financial burden averaging $1,700 a month on disposing of materials delivered to the recycling center which are not recyclable. The following is a list of acceptable and non-acceptable recyclable products. • Paper as listed (please separate) • Cardboard (Corrugated Boxes, Chipboard, Empty Cereal Boxes) • Sorted Office Paper (White Paper, Envelopes, Copy Paper, Shredded Paper – staples and paperclips OK) • Mixed Paper (File folders, Junk mail, Magazines) • Newspaper (Black and White) • Metals as listed • Tin Cans (Soup Cans – rinsed and clean) • Plastics as listed (please separate) • #1 PET Bottles (Water and Soda Bottles – clean and empty) • #2 HDPE Jugs (Milk Jugs – clean and empty) The following items are not accepted. • Aluminum Cans (pop, soda, beer) • Plastics (Mixed Bottles, jars, bags, Styrofoam, vinyl siding, toys, buckets) • Wood (Furniture, TV Stands, Speakers, Pianos, Cabinets) • Glass (Windows, Automotive Glass, Mirrors, Ceramics) • Electronics (TVs, Computers, Speakers) • Clothes • Light Bulbs • Ink/Toner Cartridges • Mattresses or Carpets • Medical Equipment • Home Appliances • Batteries • Used Motor Oil • Tires • Any item with food residue • Construction Waste • Car Parts and Bicycles In addition to Greene Arc, Mountain State Waste recently announced free recycling service in Mt. Morris, with recycling bins for metals, plastics, papers and cardboard. The bins are open from 8am to 4:30pm on weekdays and 7am to 11am on Saturdays. FMI call 724-627-5511.

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

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• GreeneScene Community Magazine

www.firstfederalofgreene.com 19

Serving Others on Christmas T By Melody Eller

here are so many people who spend the holiday’s alone and turned away and that everyone who needs a forgotten, and it breaks my heart,” says hot meal on Christmas has one.” Graysville resident Chuck Wolfe. “I learned at Chuck adds that without the generosity a very young age to help people in any way of the many volunteers, business and organiyou can. I have a passion for helping others.” zations, none of this would be possible. “A big Chuck is a proud father to nine children and ‘thank you’ to all of our sponsors: Eagles Club, three stepchildren - the “Wolfe Pack” as they Miller Home Health Care, Sabrina Ellis and call themselves. family, who provides gifts for the children, “I used to host all the holiday dinners for Carmichaels Shop N’ Save and Fredericktown my large family. Over time they have moved meat market. Donations from the state of away or had families of their own which led Texas and California have also been received me to cooking much less. I know several from generous people with Greene County people who spend Christmas alone, so I came roots.” up with an idea to help others share in the Fundraising events are held throughout Christmas spirit together by hosting a Christ- the year, with the first fundraiser taking place mas dinner for everyone and anyone in need on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2022. Stop by of a warm meal and companionship Christ- the Eagles Club for an afternoon of bingo mas day.” starting at 2pm. Proceeds from the event will Chuck had no way of knowing that his be allotted to next year’s Christmas dinner one selfless act to help others would turn into and a portion of the proceeds will be donated something so powerful. As a member of the to other local charities and organizations. Eagles Club “people helping people” is a motAnyone who wishes to place a Christto Chuck and all Eagles members strive to live mas dinner delivery can call Kim at 724-344by in their day to day lives. “The turnout that 5527. No questions are asked with the excepwe had our first year hosting a Christmas din- tion of: how many meals are needed, and if ner was shocking!” says Chuck. there are children. “We try to make sure evAlongside his close friend and Eagles ery child receives a gift.” Doors to the Eagles President, Donna Mae, the duo was able to Club will remain open until the last person start something amazing. “We learned over leaves on Christmas day. “We are still in need the years that there were still many people of turkeys, hams, and desserts. Last year we who needed a meal, but couldn’t attend the went through 24 turkeys and 20 hams!” adds dinner. That’s when I knew something had to Chuck. There is no order deadline, but the be done to make sure no one was left out.” earlier the better. This led to offering Christmas dinner “I’m certain my children will make sure delivery, which many are grateful for. This this continues for years to come. Each year annual event is in its fourth year. Chuck and we see a rise in the number of meals and each his crew of volunteers will start cooking at 4 year we have more support. I couldn’t end this am Christmas day and start their first deliv- without saying we give our Lord all the praise, ery around 11 am. Each dinner will consist without Him we could do nothing.” of ham and turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, macaroni salad, noodles, stuffing, gravy, rolls, pudding cups, and cookies. Volunteers are always needed to help serve, put together meals for delivery, and to deliver meals. Gas cards are provided, if feasible, for those who help with delivery. “We also try to deliver to local nursing homes for the staff who are working on Christmas,” Chuck says. The Eagles free Christmas Dinner is helping the less fortunate in “Our goal is to our community receive a hot meal each Christmas. make sure that no one is

Dear Santa, My name is Sawyer and I am 7 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I helped walk my dog and I helped put the star on top of our Christmas tree. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me a dog and Magic Mixies? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will leave some cookies and milk out for you, and some carrots for your reindeer. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Sawyer Jeffries

Dear Santa, My name is Jeremiah and I am 7 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I help feed my cat Jax and I helped decorate the Christmas tree. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me a Nintendo Switch with some games and an iPad? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will try to go to bed early that night. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Jeremiah Vath

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

Dear Santa, My name is Evynn and I am 6 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I helped my brother feel better when he was sad and I also helped my Mom put the ornaments on our Christmas tree. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me a pet bunny and some bunny food? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will set out some cookies and milk for you, and some carrots for your reindeer. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Evynn Wilson

Dear Santa, My name is Connor and I am 7 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I helped my brother feel better when he was sad and I also fed the dog for my parents. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me a new puppy and a Nintendo Switch? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will put out carrots for your reindeer. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Connor London

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

Dear Santa, My name is Bexley and I am 6 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I cleaned my room and I helped wrap presents. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me a stuffed elf and a guitar? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will leave cookies and milk for you. I got special elf cookies for you at the store. I will also leave carrots out for your reindeer. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Bexley Hice

HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

24 9

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

SUNDAY Friends Sharing Grief 2

MONDAY

Flea Market, 1 Adult Book Buddies

TUESDAY

Friends Sharing Grief 25

Friends Sharing Grief 18

Friends Sharing Grief 11

Friends Sharing Grief 4

Flea Market 26

Flea Market, 19 Author Book Talk

Flea Market 12

Flea Market, 5 Adult Book Buddies Club

FRIDAY

All Things Christmas Festival, 1 Play Days, Holiday Open House, Roller Skating

Want more events?

THURSDAY

All Things Christmas Festival, 3 Art Class,

Reading Rangers 13

Discovery Detectives 6

Bowlby Book Club 14

GREENESCENE HOLIDAY II 29 MAIL Cosmic Bingo,

Roller Skating, 22

Movie Night at the Library, 15 Roller Skating

Roller Skating 8

Visit our website greenescenemagazine.com for the online event calendar!

All Things Christmas Festival, 2 Discovery Detectives

WEDNESDAY

Lynn Brunetto of Waynesburg took this photograph of Shriver Covered Bridge on a snowy winter day.

Live Music at the Wine Bar 1

Flea Market, TOPS, Roller Skating

Flea Market, TOPS, Puzzle Competition, Roller Skating

Flea Market, TOPS, Dungeons & Dragons, Roller Skating

SATURDAY

JANUARY

HOLIDAY II 2021 12

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

Reading Rangers Reading Club

Dungeons & Dragons 11am@Bowlby Library. Meet the Dungeon Master, split into groups, and get the meeting schedule. FMI or to register, call 724-627-9776.

TOPS 10am@Bowlby Library. Weight management support group meets every Saturday. FMI, call 724-627-9776.

Roller Skating 7-10pm @ Mon View Roller Rink, every Friday & Saturday. Cost: $7. FMI 724-852-5323.

15 Puzzle Competition

Discovery Detectives 7pm @Fredericktown Area Public Library, first Wednesday of the month.

7pm@Bowlby Library. FMI or to register, call 724-627-9776.

28 Cosmic Bingo

6pm@Bowlby Library. Personalizing a t-shirt with Cricut, cost: $20. Preregister by 1/18 and provide size. FMI or to register, call 724-627-9776.

21 Adult Craft Night

6pm@Bowlby Library. Kevin Paul will visit the library and talk about his newest book. FMI or to register, call 724-627-9776.

18 Author Book Talk

9:30am-12:30pm@Bowlby Library. 10 teams of two compete to solve 500-piece puzzle in three hours. FMI or to register, call 724-627-9776.

7pm@Bowlby Library. Free snack and beverage! FMI or to register, call 724-627-9776.

14 Movie Night at the Library

5:30pm@Bowlby Library. Book discussion will be on Kate DiCamillo’s “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane.” FMI, call 724-627-9776.

13 Bowlby Book Club

Adult Book Buddies 6:30pm @Fredericktown Area Public Library, first Tuesday of the month.

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

7pm @Fredericktown Area Public Library, second Wednesday of the month. Fourth grade and up.

Friends Sharing Grief

Friends Sharing Grief 6pm @Bowlby Library. Every Monday. Support group for those that have suffered a loss. FMI, call 724-627-9776.

Roller Skating

Here Comes Santa Paws! P resents Four Paws, a fundraiser ran by Greene County Office Building employee Jennifer Koolen, is in its 12th year of gathering necessities for the Humane Society of Greene County to help them make it through the winter. According to Koolen, the society needs the most help during the colder season. “They [the Humane Society] don’t get a whole lot of donations during the winter months because of the holidays, people get sidetracked,” Koolen says. “There is Toys for Tots; there is lot of stuff for the children, but not much for the animals.” Koolen started this project years ago while she was working at the Waynesburg Animal Hospital. She wanted to set up a small donation box and just asked around “and it just kind of all fell into place from that point on,” she says. What began as a collection of gently used towels, blankets, or anything extra at home has grown into a collaboration with the Humane Society. Excluding 2020, the year affected by COVID-19, Koolen has typically seen great success. “The year before last, we had up to $500 in monetary donations and then truckloads

of stuff being brought over to them,” she says. Jane Gapen, Director of the Greene County Humane Society, expressed gratitude to Koolen via letter for her continued efforts to supply and care for the animals of Greene County. “Thank you for taking on the ‘Presents Four Paws’ again this year,” Gapen says. “As you no doubt know, the majority of the money we have for operating our shelter comes from donations and fundraisers and we appreciate your doing this, especially during this trying time.” Although Koolen organizes this fundraiser by herself, she is always overwhelmed by the community support and is hoping that the momentum keeps rolling and that she can collect as many donations as possible. “I have donation boxes set up all throughout Waynesburg. If people can’t get out and they want to do monetary donations or they need somebody to come pick it up from them, I am more than willing to meet somewhere,” she says. “It’s been wonderful. The community’s outpour of donations has just been wonderful!” Donation boxes are set up at numerous locations within Waynesburg including the

By Sierra Medina

County Office Building, 5 Kidz Kandy, Mickey’s Mens Store, Community Bank, First Federal Bank, Michael’s Hair Salon, Giant Eagle, Waynesburg Milling Co and Brendel Financial. Donation boxes will be there until December 22. If you are interested in giving to the Humane Society of Greene County this holiday season their wish lists include items for donation such as laundry detergent, Dawn dish soap, gently used towels, washcloths and flat sheets, cat food (Purina and Friskies), dog food (Purina, Pedigree and Alpo), as well as dog and cat toys. Monetary donations and Walmart gift cards are also “gladly accepted.” Koolen said this year donations already far exceed the year marked by the pandemic, “I think it’s going to be a huge success!”

Jennifer Koolen has been leading the Presents Four Paws fundraiser for twelve years.

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

Dear Santa, My name is Kolston and I am 6 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I helped wash the dishes and I helped my brother when he was sad. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me an XBox and some Pop-its? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will leave some food out for your reindeer. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Kolston Amos

Dear Santa, My name is Canon and I am 7 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I feed my dog and I help take the trash out. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me a little toy truck and a Nintendo Switch? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will leave some cookies and milk out for you. I will also put out some carrots for your reindeer. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Love, Canon Harvey

HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

HO, HO, HOW MANY SANTAS DOES SHE HAVE? 2000!

t all began in 1965, when one-year-old Bridget Vernon received a giant Christmas Mickey Mouse with a Santa standing beside it as a gift from her uncle Floyd. Now, at age 57, Bridget owns over 2,000 different Santas in many distinct shapes and forms.

Some are as tall as she is, while others are as small as fridge magnets. “They take up at least a room and a half upstairs,” Bridget laughs. Her collection consists of signs, framed pictures/drawings, snow globes, statues, busts, lights, clocks, dolls, and many more. Some are cute, some are unusual, and some are downright creepy. One of Bridget’s favorites includes a music box her grandmother gifted her at age 12. Some of these Santas stay out all year long, like her framed Santa fruit label. Bridget has a Santa sitting on a wagon with elves, a tree, and presents underneath that happens to be very rare and means a lot to her as a staple in the collection. Bridget’s grandmother loved Santa Claus and would always gift her granddaughter with trinkets related to the jolly saint. As her collection of Santas slowly started to grow, at age 14 she started taking the hobby seriously. Bridget would look for Santas out at yard sales, flea markets, auctions, and thrift stores. She also asked for Santas on her Christmas list. Bridget’s son and boyfriend continue to be on the lookout for Father Christmas so they can add to Bridget’s collection.

This Santa collection, while Bridget is the owner, represents more than her personal collection. As time went on, the community started to take notice of Bridget’s Santas. Bridget worked at Big Lots for 16 years and had customers come in and bring her Santas all the time. Her experience working at the local Dollar General and McDonalds throughout her life have also connected her with folks in the community, many of which have contributed to the collection. “It just makes me feel good. I’ve just always liked Santa Claus, and with my grandmother, Santa was a big deal in our house. It just brings back a lot of good memories,” Bridget says. “Santa just brings a lot of good cheer to people. He was a saint.” Bridget’s Santa interest stems past the unique adornments, as she has many books about the fabled Kris Kringle. She takes an interest in how he’s changed over time and how he is celebrated in different cultures. Her favorite Christmas song, as one would expect, is “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” Her favorite Christmas movie is Disney’s “One Magic Christmas,” where a Christmas angel tries to get a disheartened adult to believe in Santa. The holidays have always meant a

By Lachlan Loudon

great deal to Bridget and her family, as each year the joy surrounding the season brings loved ones together. The season is a time for family, good food, and giving, according to Bridget. Santa represents that joy for her. “You’re never too old to believe in Santa,” Bridget says.

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

Dear Santa, My name is Kaili and I am 6 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I helped my Mom get a new mirror and I walked my cat. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me a Rainbow Barbie and new ornaments for my Barbie Christmas tree? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will help my Mom get my baby brother to sleep so you can come. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Kaili Recker

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Dear Santa, My name is Shelby and I am 6 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I played nicely with my dog and my sister. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me a Nintendo Switch and some Pop-its? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will try to go to bed early. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Shelby Guthrie

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• GreeneScene Community Magazine

Wreaths Across America

ach year, on the second or third Saturday of December, thousands of volunteers gather at local and national cemeteries to remind people to remember, honor, and teach. These volunteers spend the day placing wreaths across the graves of the many individuals that have fought for our country. Thanks to local organizations like the Women’s Civic Club of Carmichaels, Wreaths Across America can spread its mission of remembrance into Greene County. Wreaths Across America started quietly in the early twentieth century when Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine had a surplus of wreaths towards the end of the 1992 holiday season. Company owner Morrill Worcester, remembering a trip to Arlington National Cemetery during his boyhood, working with Maine Senator Olympia Snowe, arranged to place the wreaths on graves in an older section of Arlington. As time went on, other organizations became involved in the process – James Proust, owner of Blue Bird Ranch, Inc. – a trucking company – provided transportation. Volunteers from the local American Legion and VFW decorated the wreaths with bows. Members of the Maine State Society of Washington, D.C. organized the wreath-laying

and special ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In 2005, a picture of Arlington covered in wreaths brought national attention to the donations and requests began to pour in from people that wanted to help with Arlington; other requests came to recreate the ceremonies at local cemeteries. In 2006, civic organizations held simultaneous wreath-laying ceremonies at over 150 locations. In response to the increasing number of cemeteries and volunteers, the non-profit Wreaths Across America was formed to support the national effort. By 2014, over 1000 locations participated, with more than 700,000 wreaths placed. Laurel Point Cemetery in Carmichaels, Green Mount Cemetery in Waynesburg, and Rosemont Cemetery in Rogersville have all been involved in Wreaths Across America. For more than a decade, the Women’s Civic Club of Carmichaels has overseen the event at Laurel Point Cemetery. The club, along with American Legion Post 400 and the Carmichaels VFW Post 3491, local scouts, and other volunteers will place the wreaths on December 18 this year, after a noon remembrance ceremony. Andrea Semenoff, president of the

Women’s Civic Club, read a local news article about the ceremony at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies in Bridgeville, PA. She brought it up at the club’s next meeting and the club decided to adopt the Laurel Point Cemetery in Carmichaels. They filed the paperwork and got organized, but because they started so late in their initial year, they couldn’t get as much support and sponsorship as they hoped. For their second year, the club made it a priority to cover the veteran’s graves in the older portion of the cemetery, with the reasoning that those graves are more likely to be forgotten. By the third year, they were able to cover all the veteran’s graves in the cemetery and have continued to do so ever since.

This year’s goal is to place 380 wreaths on the graves of the veterans who are buried at Laurel Point. “We have some very generous sponsors,” Andrea says. “A lot of people have loved ones buried in Laurel Point and will sponsor wreaths for their gravesites. And the local businesses are very generous. It’s one of the best things about living in a small community.”

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Dear Santa, My name is Kendall and I am 6 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I helped Mom make dinner and I helped put the Christmas tree up. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me a yellow balloon and a rainbow toy? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will try to go to sleep right away so you can come. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Love, Kendall Causer

Dear Santa, My name is Jackson and I am 6 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I made my little brother feel better when he was sad and I cleaned up my toys. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me a Ben 10 watch and a toy robot? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will leave some cookies and milk out for you, so you can dip them and eat them. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Love, Jackson Burns

HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

The Turkey has Trotted!

he turkey has come and gone and another successful Turkey Trot has been completed. The race benefitting the Eva K. Bowlby Library was held on Nov. 20 with 97 total participants. The top 3 male and female finishers in each walker and runner category received awards. WALKERS – FEMALE • 14 and under: 1st – Autumn Cumberledge; 2nd – Keira Collins; 3rd – Joei Barchiesi. • 15-19: 1st – Makenzie Barchiesi; 2nd –; 3rd –. • 20-29: 1st –; 2nd –; 3rd –. • 30-39: 1st – Sarah Donley; 2nd – Michelle Courtwright; 3rd – Christina Antonelli. • 40-49: 1st – Debbie Helsey; 2nd – Lisa Watters; 3rd – Joni Beazell. • 50-59: 1st – Nancy McCabe Day; 2nd – Christine Encinas; 3rd – Esther Morales. • 60+: 1st – Linda Keller; 2nd – Sherry Krieg; 3rd – Carlynn Grimes. WALKERS – MALE • 14 and under: 1st –; 2nd –; 3rd –. • 15-19: 1st – Christian Berish; 2nd –; 3rd –. • 20-29: 1st – Tony Grillo; 2nd –; 3rd –. • 30-39: 1st – Nicholas Wise; 2nd – Zack Patton; 3rd – Timothy Ross. • 40-49: 1st – Carl Kondrach; 2nd – Andy Helsey; 3rd – Dino Martinx. • 50-59: 1st – Gary Bennett; 2nd – Blake Headen; 3rd – Michael Morale. • 60+: 1st – Dennis Cropp; 2nd – Jerry Patton; 3rd – Larry Douhlac.

Courtwright. • 15-19: 1st – Kaitlyn Pester; 2nd – Gertie Hickman; 3rd – A. Pomykala. • 20-29: 1st – Emily Sparrow; 2nd – Emily Viglianco; 3rd – Sarah Courtwright. • 30-39: 1st – Erin Shiflett; 2nd – Marlynn White; 3rd – Mara Wallace. • 40-49: 1st – Michelle Wissinger; 2nd – Kelly Kiger; 3rd – Amy Ankrom. • 50-59: 1st – Gina Pomykala; 2nd –; 3rd –. • 60+: 1st – Janet Cunningham; 2nd – Mary Krett; 3rd – Kathy Starkey. RUNNERS – MALE • 14 and under: 1st – Darren Knight; 2nd – Jackson Grimes; 3rd – Franklin Thompson. • 15-19: 1st – Kyle Pester; 2nd – S. Pomykala; 3rd – Joshua Lang. • 20-29: 1st – Alexander Tsiukes; 2nd – Kalvin Mudrow; 3rd – Jacob Horne. • 30-39: 1st – Michael Burno; 2nd – Cody Frick; 3rd – Jason Beabout. • 40-49: 1st – Matt Brandstetter; 2nd – Kevin Davis; 3rd –. • 50-59: 1st – Mitch Radella; 2nd – Miguel Encinas; 3rd –. • 60+: 1st – John Kupa; 2nd – Leonard Davis; 3rd – Edward Mendola.

RUNNERS – FEMALE • 14 and under: 1st – Marissa Meyer; 2nd – Sofie Strosnider; 3rd – Bethany

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Dear Santa, My name is Drayden and I am 7 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I help clean things up at school and I always played with my brother. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me a Ben 10 watch and a magnetic tic-tactoe game? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will leave some cookies and milk for you. I will also hang some reindeer food on my tree for your reindeer. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Drayden Burns

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Dear Santa, My name is Dylan and I am 6 years old. I think I will be on your “Nice List” this year because I hold my Mom’s bags for her when we go shopping and I give my Mom lots of hugs. I would like a couple of special gifts for Christmas. Could you please bring me Fortnite V Bucks and some Pop-its? I can’t wait for you to come on Christmas Eve. I will leave some reindeer food out on our steps for the reindeer. I hope you have a Merry Christmas! Dylan Carrico

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• GreeneScene Community Magazine

MAKING STUFF HAPPEN: George “Bly” Blystone

Bly’s active involvement in the 50s Fest & Car Cruise committee helps keep the event happening each year in Waynesburg.

f you’ve spent time at some of Greene County’s historical landmarks, cruised on in to 50s Fest, or possibly even needed help along the road to recovery, chances are you’ve encountered George ‘Bly’ Blystone in your travels. Bly’s talents and willingness to help others have made him an integral part of our southwestern Pennsylvania community. And he has no intention of stopping anytime soon. “It’s just a bad habit,” he says with a smile when asked what leads him to give so much back to the community. “If somebody says, ‘I need this,’ I’m pretty much there.” Bly was born and raised in California and grew up in the Valley and Hollywood. The Blystone family was from this area of Pennsylvania, having settled here in the 1700s. The family eventually made their way to Wisconsin and then to Hollywood for the film industry. In 1970 Bly moved to Greene County with his friend John Eckerd and his family. John and Bly were both Civil War buffs and wanted to be closer to Gettysburg. Greene County was a perfect fit with a “cheap farm for sale.” Bly spent 40 years in reenactment as part of Knapp’s Battery and his time with the reenactment group led to his longest volunteerism – The Greene County Historical Society Museum. Knapp’s Battery headquartered at the museum’s location on Rolling Meadows Road. At the museum’s grand opening, the Battery was part of the flag and later began holding reenactments there. Bly began volunteering at the museum, and he celebrated 50 years as a museum volunteer in April. Through the museum, Bly also became in-

volved with the W.A. Young & Sons Foundry and Machine Shop in Rices Landing. At the time, the foundry was owned by the Greene County Historical Society; it later was sold to Rivers of Steel Heritage Corporation in 2009. “George Kelly told me I needed to go down to the foundry, so I went with him. I was very impressed by what was going on,” Bly says. When Bly started volunteering at the foundry in 2000, the building hadn’t seen the renovations that would make it the historic attraction it is today. The space was cluttered, the machines weren’t working, and the foundry only opened one day a year for the annual Hammer-In. The museum was unable to assist financially for renovations, so George Kelly used his volunteerism and own money to improve it. “He was the guy that put it back together,” Bly adds. George taught Bly what needed to be done and how to run the machines. When George got cancer, Bly took over and continued the work on the foundry. Sadly, George passed away in 2007. When Rivers of Steel took over ownership in 2009, restoration efforts were increased. Bly continued his services, additional help was found, scrap and trash were thrown away, and the foundry was cleaned up. Now the foundry is open every Sunday for tours. “I like to see it run,” Bly says about the foundry. “George Kelly said he wanted to see it run when he put that engine in there. And I like to see it run every weekend.” There are new machines to see running, and volunteers like machinist Steve Niderriter and blacksmith Gary Shriver, and site manger TJ Porfeli doing the work and keeping it going.

George “Bly” Blystone is a founding member of Steps Inside. His work with the program and other drug and alcohol programs has made him a well-known community keystone.

“We’re a team, and we’re in there every Sunday putting stuff together, hanging belts, and doing exciting stuff.” George also got Bly involved in the 50s Fest & Car Cruise held annually in downtown Waynesburg. His involvement started small, but when George died, Bly was determined to be a part of the event and began parking cars the day of the event. Bly is also a member of the committee and instrumental in the organization of the goody bags provided to attendees at the event. Bly is also the caretaker for the clock at the county courthouse in Waynesburg. Because he had worked on the museum’s clock and got it running, Farley Toothman reached out to Bly to get the courthouse clock working. After a workman said it was unfixable, Bly took a look, did some research and was able to find the necessary gears to fix it, which he did. The clock has been running since 2010. But it’s Bly’s work in recovery that is the most meaningful for him. As a recovering alcoholic with 42 years sober, Bly has spent decades helping others on the same path. He is currently on the Human Services Board of Directors and on the Drug & Alcohol Committee. “If I don’t have my work in recovery, I don’t have anything,” Bly says. When Bly came out Gateway Rehab in 1979, he realized that while the groups talked about being anonymous, “If I’m anonymous, nobody knows. And that’s not good. I told myself and everyone else that I wasn’t going to be anonymous.” After his time at rehab, Bly got a job at the hospital through the Office of Voca-

tional Rehabilitation (OVR). As Bly worked at the hospital and the staff there learned more about him, thanks to his pledge to not be anonymous, he began helping those that came into the Emergency Room that were drunk or needed help with alcoholism. During his sixteen years at the hospital, Bly started an Alcoholics Anonymous group at the hospital to help others. “Alcoholic Anonymous teachers you how to live another way. A lot of that stuff is naturally in my everyday life. One day at a time, one minute at a time. It all works.” After leaving the hospital, he and a group of others started Steps Inside in 2002. Through Steps Inside and the Community Recovery in Rural Communities Committee, volunteers began helping with addiction and recovery, while spreading the word that there was help available. Community outreach included a march for addiction awareness in Greene County, a role in the Town Hall Meetings, and providing information at local events. The group’s community efforts branched out to include an additional resource for those in recovery. In 2014, the men’s Oxford House Cumberland in Waynesburg was opened. In 2016, the Bird Sisters Oxford House for women was opened. Both homes had high success rates but unfortunately, had to close due to dwindling resources. But that hasn’t stopped Bly or Steps Inside. They continue to provide outreach for community members struggling with addiction and recovery. In 2019, Bly was honored with the Jack McCracken Award during the July Rain Day celebration. The award is presented “to an in-

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HOLIDAY II 2021

dividual who has been a humanitarian, civic the Pennsylvania Senate, the Pennsylvania leader, role model, who served God, family House of Representatives, The United States and community with integrity and an open Congress House of Representatives, and the heart.” Bly received a plaque on the Rain Greene County Commissioners. Bly was also Day stage during the awards ceremony. This the Grand Marshall of the Christmas parade award was only the start of the cascade of rec- held at the Greene County Fairgrounds – the ognition that Bly was to receive over the next second time he’s had the honor since 2019. couple of years. “I was flabbergasted [about the awards]. In early October, the Tourist Promo- It wasn’t too bad when I got the recognition tion Agency of Greene County introduced from Tourism, but then I started getting all the Hospitality Awards to recognize events, these other things,” Bly shares. “I don’t really employees, and volunteers for their dedica- think I needed this kind if recognition,” he tion, service, and community involvement. adds. “But it’s been pretty exciting.” The Hospitality Volunteer of the Year hon“I don’t get frustrated. It’s all one day at ors a volunteer who goes above and beyond a time. If it doesn’t happen, it doesn’t, but it normal volunteer responsibilities and judged often seems like things will just fall into place. on outstanding service to their place of vol- The best part is seeing it happen. It’s not the unteering, community, and visitors. The an- applause or anything, it’s just to be able to see nouncement that Bly was the winner was it work – whatever it is. 50s Fest, the foundry, made even more special by the fact the event the museum… With a little work, a lot of stuff was on his birthday. He even got a birthday can happen. “ cake! Later that month, Bly received the Distinguished Service Award from the Greene County Chamber of Commerce. The Distinguished Service Award is “bestowed 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.” In addition to those awards, Bly is an integral part of the team that keeps W.A. Young & Sons Foundry and Machine Shop running and open to the public. Bly has received recognition from

Bly has been the Grand Marshall for the Waynesburg Christmas Parade for 2019 and 2021.

HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

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2 0 2 1 SPO R TS B ANQU E T & HAL L OF F AME

ometown Heritage Sports and The Greene County Department of Recreation will be hosting a banquet at the Waynesburg University Dining Hall on January 8 to honor their 2021 male and female athletes of the month. The banquet is sponsored by KSW Oilfield Services. In addition, the inaugural class of the new Greene County Sports Hall of Fame will be inducted that evening. The class was chosen by a committee of local sports historians and aficionados. The class includes 15 County sports legends and two championship teams. The inductees include: Waynesburg High School alum, Bill George became an All-American linebacker at Wake Forest and went on to play for the Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Rams in the 1950s and 1960s. He was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1974 and is credited with “inventing” the middle linebacker position. In 1999, the Sporting News ranked him number 49 on the list of the 100 Greatest Football Players. He was also a twotime PIAA wrestling champion in high school. Jefferson-Morgan’s Cary Kolat was a scholastic phenom and finished his high school career undefeated while winning four PIAA Championships. He went on to become a four-time All-American and two-time NCAA Champion at Penn State and Lock Haven University. He was a member of the United States Men’s Freestyle Wrestling Team from 1997–2001. During that time, he won silver and bronze medals at the 1997 and

1998 FILA Wrestling World Championships. He also competed for the United States in at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, where he placed 9th. Kolat is currently the head wrestling coach at the U.S. Naval Academy Waynesburg’s Coleman Scott was a four-time WPIAL and three-time PIAA wrestling champion for the Raiders in the early 2000s. He went on the be a four-time All-American and 2008 NCAA Champion at Oklahoma State. He was the NCAA Runner-up in 2007. Coleman won the 60kg Bronze Medal at the 2012 London Olympics. He also represented the United States at the 2015 World Cup. He became the head wrestling coach at the University of North Carolina in 2015. Rudy Marisa turned Waynesburg College basketball from an afterthought into a national powerhouse. In his 34 seasons as the Jackets’ coach, he won 565 games and seven NAIA District 18 championships in a nine-year span. In 2003 when he retired from coaching, his career record was 17th best nationally among all active coaches and 53rd all-time. He was also named the District 18 Coach of the Year six times. In 1996 and 1998, he was named the President’s Athletic Conference Coach of the Year. Additional accolades included Pittsburgh Press Coach of the Year (1984 and 1986), Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Coach of the Year (1986), Pittsburgh Italian Coach of the Year (1989), and the NIASHF Pittsburgh Coach of the Year (1988). Mapletown alum Derek Bochna finished his career in 1989 as the WPIAL’s all-time leader in rushing (4,793 yards), scoring (446 points) and touchdowns (77). He was named First Team All-State in both his junior and senior year. In

addition, he played in the prestigious Big 33 Game against Maryland. Bochna went on to become a four-year defensive starter at Penn State. He was a Freshman All-American, Second Team All-Big Ten, and a member of Penn State’s All-Decade Team. When he left the University, he was fourth on their all-time interception list and 19th on their all-time tackle list. Bochna was also a four-year starter on the Nittany Lions baseball team. After his final season in 1995, he was at or near the top in all of the Nittany Lions’ career offensive categories, including first in home runs and runs scored. Cumberland Township High School alum Joe Taffoni played football at WVU and the University of Tennessee-Martin in the mid-60s. He was named to the All-Mountaineer Team of the 1960s. At Tennessee-Martin, he was named First Team All-Southern Conference and Second Team All-American. In 1967, he was a fourth-round draft pick of the Cleveland Browns. In 1970, he earned a starting spot after playing behind veteran Monte Clark. After five years with the Browns, he was traded to the New York Giants, where he made the All-NFC Team in 1972. In addition, Taffoni had turned down professional baseball contracts after high school to play college football. Rachel Rohanna won both WPIAL and PIAA girls’ golf titles in 2005 and 2007. She became only the third freshman to win the WPIAL. She was also only the sixth girl to win

Cary Kolat, courtesy of AP/David Guttenfelder).

Bill George, courtesy of Chicago Tribune.

Coleman Scott

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

Rudy Marisa, courtesy of Waynesburg University.

multiple WPIAL titles. Her junior year, she won her second state title by six strokes. At the WPIAL and PIAA tournaments in 2006, she placed second and fourth, respectively. In 2008, she played on the boys’ team and held down the number one slot. (She played from the same tees as the boys) She received a scholarship to Ohio State University and went on to be an All-Big Ten selection in both 2010 and 2012. While at Ohio State, she was the first woman to win the prestigious Frank Fuhrur Award given to the best collegiate golfer in western Pennsylvania. Between her freshman and sophomore year as a Buckeye, she shot a record 65 in the first round of the Women’s Amateur Golf Championship. Rohanna has been a professional golfer for eight years (six seasons on the LPGA Symetra Tour and two on the LPGA tour). Jack Wiley graduated from Richhill Township High School in 1938 and played football for Waynesburg College. He was on the team that played in the first televised football game when the Yellow Jackets took on Fordham. After college, he fought in World War II and rose to the rank of captain. He returned home and started a career with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The undersized tackle became a favorite of owner Art Rooney during his five years with the team. He was one of the first players to have his likeness on a playing card. After retiring, he returned to coach the Jackets from 1951-54. His record was 22-9-1, including an upset of Bowling Green and

Jack Wiley, courtesy of 1948 Bowman football card.

HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

Derek Bochna

three narrow losses to WVU. He then moved on to a career as the offensive line coach for the Steelers. The Waynesburg University football field is named in his honor. Steve Korcheck of Cumberland Township High School received a scholarship to George Washington University to play both football and baseball. He became a two-sport Division I All-American in 1954. He was drafted 35th overall by the San Francisco 49ers but chose to sign with the American League’s Washington Senators. He appeared as a catcher for the Senators over four seasons from 1954-59. His career was interrupted by a two-year stint in the army. In 1960, he returned to George Washington to obtain his Masters’ and Doctoral degrees while coaching the baseball team. In the 1970s, he taught and coached baseball at Manatee Community College in Sarasota, Florida. In 1980, he became president of that institution until his retirement in 1997. Greg Hopkins of West Greene and Waynesburg Central High Schools went on to a standout career as a wide receiver at Slippery Rock University. While there, he was a three-time Division II All-American and finished his career with 215 receptions for 3,382 yards. He held nine different school records when he graduated. After college, he went on to the Arena Football League, and played wide receiver and linebacker for the Albany/Indiana Firebirds (1996-2001) and the Los Angeles Avengers (2002-2006). He was named to the All-Arena

Steve Korcheck

Joe Taffoni

Team in 2002 and 2003. He made Second Team All-League in 1998 and 2000. In 2002, he was named the League’s Iron Man of the Year. He was also named as one of the Greatest 20 Players in AFL History (#14). The Avengers retired his number (82) in 2007. In 2013, he was inducted into the Arena Football Hall of Fame. In addition, his senior year at WCHS, he was a PIAA runner-up in wrestling and set the school javelin record with a throw of 195’ 9”. Larry Krutko led Cumberland Township High School to the 1952 WPIAL football championship before continuing his career at West Virginia University. He was one of the greatest fullbacks in Mountaineer history. He led the team in rushing in both 1956 and 1957 while also starting at linebacker. He scored the Mountaineers only touchdown in a 7-6 upset victory over Texas. The Mountaineers won two Southern Conference titles those years, and Krutko played in both the BlueGray Game and the Senior Bowl. He was also named to the WVU Team of the Decade. He was drafted by the Steelers in the second round of the 1957 Draft and started at fullback before an ankle injury ended his career in 1960. Waynesburg Central’s, Josh Koscheck finished as runner-up at the 1997 PIAA Wrestling Championships. He attended Edinboro University where he became the Fighting Scots second NCAA Division I Champion in 2001 after going 42-0 in the 174-pound weight class. He was also the school’s

Rachel Rohanna, courtesy of Symetra Tour/ Ali Palma.

Greg Hopkins

first four-time All-American (4th, 2nd, 1st, and 3rd) and only the 11th four-time Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Champion. He was honored as the PSAC Wrestler of the Year three times and once as the Eastern Wrestling League’s Most Valuable Wrestler. After college, his career took a different turn when he appeared on the first season of the mixed martial arts television series The Ultimate Fighter. After reaching the semi-finals on the show, he went on to a successful MMA career for the UFC and Bellator before retiring in 2018. Carmichaels’ Tom McCombs was a standout three-sport athlete at Cumberland Township High School in the early 1960s. He went on to Lafayette University to star in both football and baseball. On the gridiron, he was named to the 1968 AP All-State College Team and the All-East Second Team as a safety. After missing his senior year due to a severe injury, he spent part of 1971 in the Cleveland Indians organization of the Gulf Coast Rookie League. He also played for their AA Jacksonville affiliate in the Dixie Association League that season. His career was cut short by the two devastating injuries suffered in college. His junior year, he was struck on the wrist by a pitch, which shattered his arm and required extensive rehabilitation. The following season, he was involved in a collision on the field, which resulted in a broken leg that later developed severe complications. The injuries proved too much to overcome in his bid to make the majors. McCombs

Larry Krutko

returned to coach the Mike’s baseball team from 1974-1998. Ben Parker was the legendary football coach of the Jefferson Jeffs in the middle of the 20th century. The Rockets football field is named in his honor. His career record was an incredible 122-14-11, an .897 winning percentage. He had played on the outstanding Waynesburg College teams of the early 30’s under the legendary coach Frank Wolfe. Parker installed his mentor’s single wing philosophy even though the T-formation was dominant by the 1940s. After a 7-1-1 season in 1940, the Jeffs did not lose a game until the 1945 finale. However, the teams were usually left out of the WPIAL playoffs because they could not obtain enough Gardner Points due to the fact few “Class B” schools would schedule them. The 1951 team finally earned enough points for the playoffs and tied Wilmerding 20-20 to become WPIAL Co-Champions. Parker went on to serve in the Pennsylvania legislature upon his retirement from coaching. Jerry Yost quarterbacked the West Greene pioneers to undefeated seasons in 1957 and 1958. He was also a member of the Pioneers WPIAL record setting 880 Relay Team in ’58. He went on to West Virginia University and won the starting job his sophomore year. He became WVU’s first All-American quarterback in 1962. That year, he led the Mountaineers to wins over Pitt, Virginia Tech and powerhouse Syracuse. He led the Southern Conference in passing and total offense – 1,034 passing yards and 330 rushing yards. In 1964, he was

Josh Koscheck

signed to a free agent contract with the New York Jets. Two teams were also inducted in the first class. The 1966 Waynesburg College football team won the NAIA National Championship after they defeated Wisconsin-Whitewater in the title game. Coach Carl DePasque’s Jackets had finished the regular season undefeated after beating Slippery Rock, Susquehanna, Ohio Northern, California State, Frostburg, Geneva, West Virginia Wesleyan, Findlay, and Westminster. There were rumors of a bid to the Tangerine Bowl; however, the N.A.I.A. invited the Jackets to the national play-offs. The semi-finals were in Albuquerque, New Mexico against New Mexico Highlands. The team was a 28-point underdog. Highlands was led by Carl Garrett, who would become the 1969 AFL Rookie of the Year for the Boston Patriots. New Mexico led 20-0 late in the second quarter. In the second half, Waynesburg fought back to lead 23-20 before a late touchdown gave Highlands the apparent win. However, the Jackets had one more comeback in them. With 27 seconds left, Rich Dahar threw a 5-yard halfback pass to tight end Bob Miltenberger for the 30-27 victory The championship game was held the following week in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Wisconsin-Whitewater had destroyed Central Iowa in the other semi-final 41-16. Few thought Waynesburg had any chance of victory. The star of the game was once again Dahar, who rushed for 233 yards on 41 carries. Ultimately, the Jacket defense held Whitewater to minus 39 yards rushing. The 42-21 victory allowed the team to claim the Amos Alonzo Stagg Trophy. Three future NFL players were on the rosterDon Hermann, Joe Righetti, and Dave Smith. Upon their return to Pittsburgh Airport, the team was greeted by 1,500 fans. That night, hundreds of people gathered in front of the courthouse in a driving rainstorm. Those assembled, “snake-danced” through town in celebration. The Jackets had broken 25 individual and team records that season. The second team being inducted is the 1998 Carmichaels WPIAL and PIAA Championship softball team. Coach Rob Cole’s team finished the season 26-0 with 20 shutouts. They were led by pitcher Nikki Gasti, who went 24-0 with 293 GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

Jerry Yost, courtesy of West Virginia & Regional History Center.

strikeouts in 146 innings. She had 18 shutouts and five no-hitters. Her ERA was an astounding 0.14 after she gave up only three runs all seasons. Gasti was named the Pittsburgh PostGazette Player of the Year. That year’s senior class finished their careers with a 79-7 record. That year, the Mikes scored 257 runs on the season and surrendered only seven. Early in the season, they defeated traditional AAA power Connellsville 5-0 as Gasti tossed a perfect game. The WPIAL championship game was a 2-0 win over tra-

ditional power Sto-Rox. The PIAA playoffs began with a no-hit 5-0 win over District 5 champion Tyrone. Gasti remained dominate in the next round with an 8-0 shutout of the District 9 champion Brookville. They faced StoRox again in the state semifinal. The result was another 2-0 win. In the state championship game, the Mikes trailed South Williamsport 2-1 after four innings, thanks to five uncharacteristic errors. It was only the second time all season the team trailed at any point in a game. However, the next four Carmichaels’ runs went unanswered. The rally started when centerfielder Megan Bandish tripled home the tying run with one out. She scored the go-ahead run after Dee Watson reached on an infield single. The Mikes went on to captured the 5-2 victory and the first girls’ PIAA title by any Greene County team.

1966 Waynesburg College Football Team

1998 Carmichaels Softball Team

HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

CARMICHAELS ALL-COUNTY Football: Trenton Carter, Parker Hyatt, Cody McCoy, Tyler Richmond, Elijah Smith, Michael Stewart, Alec Anderson, Chris Mincer, Jonathon Ochkie, Austin Walker

Golf: Dustin Hastings, Rolin Burghy, Mason Lapana, Liam Lohr, Nick Ricco Volleyball: Beth Cree, Kendall Ellsworth, Mikayla Andrews, Alyah Thomas, Carlee Roberts

BOY OF THE MONTH

Jonathan Ochkie is the son of John and Martha Ochkie of Carmichaels. The senior is a starting member of the football team and participates in the ESPORTS Club. Jono went on his first mission trip to Guatemala when he was 15 years old. He visited a special needs orphanage and took supplies to local villages. The trip was a turning point in his life and guided his future plans, which include becoming an EMT while attending college to become a nurse.

Mikayla Andrews is the daughter of Jerod and Tracy Andrews of Carmichaels. She has been a member of the Carmichaels volleyball team and cheerleading squad for three years. She is also a member of the Junior National Honor Society. She is planning to attend college to pursue a career in nursing.

GIRL OF THE MONTH 40

WAYNESBURG ALL-COUNTY Football: Nate Jones, Nate Kirby, Owen Farrior, Trenton Zupper, Caleb Stephenson, Breyden Woods Golf: Braden Benke, Hudson Boris, Matthew Ankrom, Dawson Fowler, Evan Davis Soccer: Ashlyn Basinger, Brenna Benke, Regan Carson, Lucy Pulkonik, Jaden Tretinik, Kaley Rohanna, Kali

Shriver, Chase Henkins, Nate Jones, Drew Layton, Dawson Fowler, Ryan McCartney Volleyball: Paige Jones, Taylor Lohr, Madison McMaster, Lily Rush, Morgan Stephenson, Sarah Stephenson Cross Country: Addison Blair, Travis Tedrow Pittsburgh Soccer All-WPIAL Team: Chase Henkins and Ashlyn Basinger

BOY OF THE MONTH

Sophomore Daniel Huffman is the son of Charlie and Christina Huffman of Waynesburg. He is part of the Waynesburg Central football and wrestling team. In school, he is involved in the Spanish club. In his free time, he enjoys lifting weights, hanging out with friends, and trying to get as much time in the wrestling room as he can. He would like to thank God because without him nothing would be possible.

Morgan Stephenson is the daughter of Paul and Nikki Stephenson of Waynesburg. She is a member of the Raiders’ volleyball team and recently signed with Glenville State College to continue her career. She has played for P3R and Pittsburgh Elite volleyball clubs in the past. This year, she will play for the OVVA Volleyball Club. She also enjoys playing softball and spending time with her friends.

GIRL OF THE MONTH GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

Wishing you a safe and healthy Holiday Season. HOLIDAY II 2021

• GreeneScene Community Magazine

whs.org/greene

J-M ALL-COUNTY

Football: Colt Fowler, Cole Jones, John Gilbert, Ewing, Jamison, Joshua Wise Golf: Savannah Clark

Volleyball: Anna Uvegas, Madison Wright, Alison Ostrich, Finley Kramer

BOY OF THE MONTH

Mason Sisler is the son of Tina and Bill Sisler of Mather. He is a sophomore honor student and a three-sport letterman in football, baseball and wrestling. Mason started at center for the Rockets’ football team this past season.

Taylor McCollum is the daughter of Andrew and Gretchen McCollum of Rices Landing. She is a freshman member of the rifle team and has cheered for the Rockets for the past seven years. She is also a member of yearbook and PAC club.

GIRL OF THE MONTH 42

MAPLETOWN ALL-COUNTY Football: Clay Menear, Brody Evans, Landon Stevenson, Cohen Stout, A.J. Vanata, Max Vanata, Levi Howard, Grant Murin,

Volleyball: Macee Cree, Taylor Dusenberry, Ella Menear, Riley Pekar, Krista Wilson, Brianna Ashton, Mekenzie Reda

BOY OF THE MONTH

Braden McIntire is the son of Nancy and Doug McIntire of Greensboro. The sophomore maintains high honors while playing both football and basketball as well as serving on the Student Council. Braden also plays AAU travel basketball and enjoys hunting and ATV riding with his family and friends.

Bailey Rafferty is the daughter of Jeremy and Kelly Rafferty of Dilliner. She is a ninth grader and plays varsity basketball, softball, and volleyball. Bailey has a 4.4 GPA and is vice president of the freshman class. She has played club volleyball for three years and currently plays for Morgantown Volleyball Club in West Virginia. Bailey is a member of St. Matthias Catholic Parish.

GIRL OF THE MONTH GreeneScene Community Magazine •

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WEST GREENE ALL-COUNTY Football: Wesley Whipkey, Colin Brady, Hunter Hamilton, Corey Wise, Dalton Lucy, Nathan Orndoff, Briana Jackson, Casey Miller, Bryce Anderson, Owen Hughes

Cross Country: Katie Lampe and Kaden Shields Soccer: Kevin Thompson Volleyball: Kasie Meek, London Whipkey, Anna Durbin, Sophia Plock, BreAnn Jackson

Freshman wide receiver Dakota Romantino had a memorable first collegiate season for the Yellow Jackets. Not only did he lead the team in catches, yards and

touchdown receptions, but his 99-yard catch and run for a touchdown from quarterback Tyler Raines set a school record for longest play from scrimmage.

The Waynesburg University women’s cross country team won a sixth-straight PAC title on Oct. 30. Seniors Aubrey Wingeart and Gloria Reed led the way

with first-team All-PAC performances. Winegeart also qualified for the second time for the NCAA Division III Championships in Louisville, Kentucky.

BOY OF THE MONTH

Seth Burns competes in football and wrestling for the Pioneers. He is the son of Nyle and Scarlett Burns of Graysville. Seth was an integral part of this year’s section championship football team and placed fourth at the WPIAL Individual Wrestling Championship last year with an 18-3 record. He is also a member of the West Greene FFA.

Mackenzie Wise is a junior and competes in volleyball and has participated in basketball. She is the daughter of Lynn and Ginger Wise of New Freeport. Mackenzie is the Secretary of the Class of 2023, Treasurer of the National Honor Society, Vice President of the Science Club and is a member of the Peer Mentoring Program. She played club volleyball at Ohio Valley Volleyball Academy. Mackenzie played a pivotal role this year as she helped the volleyball team earn a WPIAL playoff appearance.

Waynesburg University freshman and Carmichaels graduate Emma Hyatt led the Yellow Jackets in total blocks during her first collegiate season.

GIRL OF THE MONTH

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THE POWER OF xpertise

COMING SOON: Accepting patients January 3rd, 2022

YOU WANT THE VERY BEST CARE FOR YOUR EYES. Fortunately, one of the country’s premier centers for eye care is right here in Waynesburg. With a large group of excellent specialists, the WVU Eye Institute has the expertise that is needed for every eye problem, whether common or rare, in children or adults.

CLINIC HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8 am - 5 pm LOCATION:

Conveniently located off I-79 Exit 14 451 Murtha Drive • Waynesburg, PA

THE POWER OF

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Learn more at WVUMedicine.org/Waynesburg

Appointments: Call 855-WVU-CARE

The Power of WVU Medicine is a campaign to highlight what truly drives the WVU Medicine brand: Expert healthcare providers, dedicated support staff, and inspiring patients.

Working Like a Dog: The Waynesburg Beagle Club

s the air turns colder and the beards grow thicker, the hunters of Greene County are also getting a growing gleam in their eyes. ‘Tis almost the season for throwing on the orange and neon and hitting the hills and tree stands. Every year, a local club awaits hunting season, excited to show what they have been working on - the Waynesburg Beagle Club. Established in the early 1900s, the club originally stood where the Waynesburg Sportsman Club is today. It was moved to its current spot in Jefferson in 1948 where it now boasts over a hundred acres. Forty of those acres serve as a safe, enclosed training area for beagles. “Waynesburg Beagle Club’s aim is to develop accurate trailing Beagles and promote trials to test and condition hunting beagles,” says Curtis “Jay” Johnson, President of the organization. “Our mission is to promote the sport of beagling competitions.” To promote the breed and owners, the club hosts competition trials for dogs and handlers to compete in. These trials involved simulated rabbit hunts where the dogs are scored on their ability to both find the rabbit and the speed and consistency of their tracking. These events attract handlers from all

over to prove the talents of their hounds. The Waynesburg Beagle Club is a private organization with a maximum of forty dues paying members currently. These members get to enjoy the running grounds of the property enclosed by a fence along with the various events held by the club during the year. “We have competition events throughout the year. Some of the events are held under the Professional Kennel Club (PKC) rules and others held under United Kennel Club rules,” Johnson adds. “In both cases, the dogs receive points on how well they perform and at the end of the timed competition, the beagle with the highest point total is deemed the winner. This past year, the club hosted its first annual Terry Lemley Memorial Hunt which drew dog handlers from all over the county to Greene County.” One of the favorite competitions of the members is also Field Trials. In it, the beagles are competing against one another to determine which dog is best on that given day. Despite the nature of the competitions, no rabbits are harmed during any of the Beagle competitions. “The majority of beagle handlers and owners in our club enjoy listening to the wonderful sounds of a pack of beagle hounds

as they pursue the wild cottontail, which they were bred to do,” Johnson says. In the future, the club hopes to be the premiere home for competition beagle events in Greene County. They plan to continue promoting the breed and encouraging the sport of beagling to a new generation through hosting youth hunts and sponsoring scholarships to students in Greene County. FMI on the Waynesburg Beagle Club, visit waynesburgbeagleclub.org. To learn more about beagling and UKC beagle programs, check out ukcdogs. com/beagle-about.

By Morgan Marisa

Members of the Waynesburg Beagle Club with their beagles.

GreeneScene Community Magazine •

HOLIDAY II 2021

Right vs. Privilege

have behaved for eleven months. It was only a matter of time. This month’s installment will not make a lot of friends. That is okay. I am not writing this column to extend my friendship base, but rather to enlighten my readers and possibly offer food for thought. Before you line the bottom of your parakeet cage with this month’s article, read the entire article - that’s all I ask. We can still be friends when all is said and done, even if we disagree. Driving a car, at least in the state of Pennsylvania, is a privilege, extended to you and me by our gracious government. It is not a guarantee that you may drive your car on the highways of our commonwealth. One must pass a driver’s test, be physically fit enough to operate said vehicle and maintain auto insurance, inspection, etc. One must obey the state’s traffic code while operating a vehicle. At any time, one’s driving privileges may be rescinded for violating portions of the law. In essence, that privilege to drive may be withdrawn. The right to keep and bear arms is exactly that - a right. As stated in the Bill of Rights to the U.S. Constitution, the first ten amendments are guaranteed and spelled out clearly. If you have not read them or have not explored them since eighth grade civics, I’d advise revisiting the Bill of Rights before proceeding. Much of what I am going to cover is clarified with some Constitutional backgrounding. Items like freedom of the press, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, due process, are vaguely familiar to us as United States citizens. However, many folks want what they want, and they won’t let a little thing like constitutional rights get in the way. My old football coach used to say that any time someone starts a conversation by saying, “Well all I know is…” then that’s usually all they know. Rights are non-negotiable. They are protected by and within the Constitution. It is not easy to change the Constitution, nor should it be. It is rigid to a point and should not be overturned by whim of a few when public opinion sways or media outlets cry for change, see “justice.” Free speech is closely guarded in America because it is important to have the right to express one’s opinion, even if it is not especially popular. When that right is

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infringed upon, we are all in danger of becoming victims of governmental control. Now think of the Second Amendment. All the amendments are clearly laid out and meant to be a blanket protection, whether we like all of what they stand for. I’ll speak more of the right to keep and bear arms shortly. I use the topic of flag burning as an example because it hits near and dear to a lot of us. I hate seeing the American flag burned. Period. It is for that same reason that I do not think it constitutional to outlaw flag burning. It is a slippery slope. It starts with the prohibition of burning the flag and eventually creeps into the fabric of every other tenet of our system of government. What we don’t like, we forbid. Flag burning is a form of free speech. It is not an exception to the rule but rather the unfortunate reality of the rule. If you think it could never happen, look at what is no longer legal or at least acceptable to say in public these days as compared to a few years back. If you think it can’t continue at such an alarming rate, then your head maybe in the sand. I’ll close with “common sense.” I hear a lot of folks saying that they are in favor of common-sense gun control. My question is, “Whose common sense will we be using?” I’ll stick with the protections offered by the Constitution. I have visited the department of motor vehicles often enough to know that I don’t want my right to keep and bear arms doled out by the likes of the DMV and such. While I think everyone should have some firearms training in handling, carrying or usage of weaponry, I do not believe it should be mandated by the government. Rights are not a privilege and should not be doled out like permits and licenses by a bureaucrat, at their discretion. The right to keep and bear arms is a right. The second amendment is not about protection from things that go bump in the night, but rather as the means to defend ourselves and our country from tyranny; in other words, to keep the government in check. It is the core fabric of what makes us truly American. God bless our republic and Merry Christmas!

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

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