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GreeneScene by Joy Eggleston
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GreeneScene by Leigh Ann McCulty
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The Challenge Program Rewards Outstanding Students
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Seniors from Jefferson Morgan High School Earn Cash Awards
efferson Morgan High School students have earned cash awards from The Challenge Program, Inc. Each student received a $250 check. The seniors of the 2013 graduating class of Jefferson Morgan High School earning awards are (pictured left to right): Mateusz Zeglen for Community Service; Erica Johnson for Academic Excellence; Brady Nelson for Academic Improvement and James Baker for Attendance. These awards were made possible through the sponsorship of Alpha Natural Resources, Waynesburg, PA. The Challenge Program, Inc. contributes to regional economic development by encouraging students to excel while partnering with local businesses. The program connects high school students with businesses and motivates students to succeed in school and in their communities. Within each participating high schoo, students compete for monetary awards in the following categories: Academic Excellence, Academic Improvement, Attendance and Community Service and new for 2012-2013, the STEM award (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). The total amount of awards in each high school is $3,000. The Challenge Program, Inc. includes 114 schools throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia and provides high school students with incentives for success. Since 2003, through the generous support of businesses, foundations and individuals, The Challenge Program, Inc. has been introduced to more than 330,000 students and checks totaling more than $2 million have been presented to high school students. If you wish to participate in The Challenge Program, Inc., please call Mary Dreliszak at 724-9840860 814-533-7401 and visit our website at www.tcpinc.org. Congratulations to the 2013 TCP senior winners and to the entire graduating class of Jefferson Morgan High School!
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The True Story of the 140th Let’s Keep Telling It
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ow in the 150th anniversary cycle of the American Civil War, with the Battle of Gettysburg exactly 150 years ago this coming July, a fascinating portrait of that time in our country’s history is drawn by reenactors. What is it about Civil War reenacting that calls men, women, boys and girls into traipsing about in old time clothes and sleeping in tents? What is it about cooking over open fires and marching and shooting off old guns until the air is blue with black powder smoke and the crowds that have come to see the mock battle can no longer be seen and the 21st century seems suddenly so far away? If you ask Doug Wilson of Waynesburg, and WANB Radio’s popular morning DJ, he will sum it up in two words. “It’s fun!” For the last 20 years Amy Wilson in one of her ballroom gowns, and counting, a troop representative of the Civil War Era. of reenactors has been marching into schools and camping out at festivals, telling the true story of the 140th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Company A with action, rather than just words. “American history isn’t taught in school like it used to be,” Roger Doty of Waynesburg lamented. As Captain of the 140th, he and First Sergeant Wilson are on a mission to keep history alive for kids. “When we go into the classroom I tell them ‘if your family was here in the 1860s, then someone in your family fought in this war. Sometimes these kids will come up to me later and say ‘you were right! I asked my grandma!’ Sometimes they get interested enough to read about it. If I can get a kid to read a book, I’ve won the war.” The original 140th Company A included young men who mustered in from Waynesburg College’s Hannah Hall in the summer of 1862. They marched to Rices Landing and took a boat to Pittsburgh to be recruited into the Union Army. They saw action, including the horrifically intense battle of Gettysburg July 1-4, 1863. Not all would make it home and when they did it was with little fanfare, after the war ended in 1865. Deja vu came calling in 1992 when college music director Reverend Bill Parker searched for a new service-learning project for his students and brought to life this almost forgotten piece of local history. “Initially it was the historical factor and public awareness that got me excited. I’m retired military and I wanted to camp out again,” Parker recalled. “Doug and Roger just submerged themselves in it.” “Reverend Parker approached me first and I thought he was joking but the more we talked the better it seemed,” Wilson said. It was teachers and students who mustered in 130 years before; and it would be Parker, Wilson, fellow senior Brian Negley and Doty, a college maintenance man with family ties to the Civil War, who would muster the memory of these long lost soldiers back home again. “We thought we’d join a group but then we decided to start our own. And lo and behold! We discovered the 140th was right here on campus. It was kind of eerie.” Wilson admitted.
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Parker wrote and received an education grant through Representative Bill DeWeese’s office to purchase the historic gear and the group was off and running. “We went to Gettysburg and bought uniforms and equipment and had enough money left for one tent,” Doty remembered. “Our first encampment was at the Harvest Festival at the Greene County museum. My daughter Rachel was two months old and a friend made her a wooden travel cradle. She was the star of the show.” Doug’s newly minted bride, Amy Wilson, found herself happily in the thick of it as well. “It was something different and it was neat to get dressed up. We made most of our clothing and had to hunt for patterns and accessories. It was fun learning how to walk with those dresses on – they make you feel like a lady. The more you learn the more you want to know about the clothes they wore, the games the kids played, the food they ate. We dove into the lifestyle,” Amy said. By his own account, Roger Doty has black powder in his blood. “When my grandfather passed away he left me a cigar box with a penknife, some loose change and a regimental history in it. I didn’t know what it was, but I learned it belonged to my great grandfather Wilson Doty’s brother Thomas who died in Spottsylvania, Virginia and was buried in the field.” When Roger began digging into his military roots, he unearthed more than family history. “Altogether I had 10 relatives in the 140th Company D out of Amity. Company A was out of Waynesburg and Company F was out of Jollytown. It was easier for them to
Captain Roger Doty
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Marching forward at boot camp
go to Morgantown and 100 men joined there from Greene County.” Doug Wilson got the bug in fifth grade at W. Middlesex Elementary, Mercer County. “I credit my teacher Gene Rubio for inspiring my love of history. Reenacting gives me a chance to play and a chance to pay back by teaching others. If you want to research your family, you can do it with their names through the National Archives. I just found out that I have an ancestor who was in Company A, Private Lindsey Morris. He survived Gettysburg and died a year later of smallpox. He’s buried in Arlington National Cemetery.” Fourth founding member Bryan Negley now lives in North Carolina but remains on the roster as an honorary reserve. The 140th has open recruitment and 20 soldiers turned out for this year’s boot camp, Doug is happy to report. “Our youngest is 14 and a musician Alex Campbell of Carmichaels.” “I fell away for awhile but then I came back because Alex is involved,” proud grandfather Parker, the company chaplain said. “He started when he was 12, that’s when you can join with a relative or a guardian. He had an interest in American history and it’s led him into a lot of reading.” What is it about reenacting that is so hard to describe but will never be forgotten once you’ve experienced it? “It happens at bigger reenactments especially – it’s that ‘Oh!’ moment - and there’s another word but I won’t say it when you know this is what it really was like 150 years ago,” Wilson replied, grinning. “For me, it was Gettysburg. We were marching across the field, canons firing, the smoke and fog so thick you
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Performing an arms change at boot camp
couldn’t see the crowds any more. We crested the hill and 50 feet away a group of Southern reenactors had their rifles pointed right at us. Officers were giving orders but we were acting on instinct and I don’t remember anything after that until Roger said to me ‘you can stop firing now – they’re retreating!’”
A monument erected in the memory of the 140th Pennsylvania Infantry stands in the Peach Orchard in Gettysburg, the area where the 140th made their stand during the Battle of Gettysburg. Over 80% of the men in the group were either killed or injured during this bloody battle. Each year, on the Saturday closest to Nov. 20th, the date President Abraham Lincoln delivered his Gettysburg address, our 140th reenactors make the trek to Gettysburg and the Peach Orchard for Remembrance Day, when a wreath is placed upon the monument.
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hree seventh-graders from Margaret Bell Miller Middle School in Waynesburg recently won the Greene County Conservation District’s Conservation Poster Contest. The winners are Janvi Patel, first place; Emily Corbett, second place; and Lisa Montgomery, third place. The contest was sponsored at the middle school through the National Junior Honor Society. Jillian McGowan, math teacher, is the NJHS faculty sponsor. Janvi’s poster will be judged at the state level through the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts, and state winners in five different grade categories will advance to the National Conservation Poster Contest later this year. Sponsored by the National Association of Conservation Districts and the NACD Auxiliary, the annual poster contest provides students in kindergarten through 12th grade the opportunity to create artwork about soil, water and other natural resource issues. This year’s theme is “Where Does Your Water Shed?” which was also the theme of National Soil and Water Stewardship Week May 5-12. National Soil and Water Stewardship Week recognizes that fertile soil and clean water provide daily sustenance as well as security, and that effective conservation practices and stewardship have resulted in a richer standard of living. For more information, call the Conservation District at 724852-5278. Pictured, from l. to r., are Commissioner Chuck Morris; first-place winner Janvi Patel; second-place winner Emily Corbett; third-place winner Lisa Montgomery; Tom Headlee, Conservation District board director; and Commissioner Archie Trader.
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John Corbly Reunion T
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he 82nd reunion of the John Corbly Descendants Association will be held at the historic Corbly Baptist Church in Garards Fort on Sunday, June 30, 2013. A worship service will begin at 9:30 AM and the association meeting will begin at approximately 10:30 AM. A luncheon will be served at the church immediately following the meeting. Reverend Corbly established the Garards Fort church as well as thirty other Baptist churches in early settlements throughout western Pennsylvania, Kentucky and Virginia (West Virginia) between 1770 and 1800. His original homestead was near Garards Fort where tragically he lost his second wife and three children during an Indian raid in 1782. He served in the militia during the U.S. War for Independence and was one of three initial justices appointed for Greene County. His strong stance for free speech and no taxation without representation led to his arrest during the Whiskey Rebellion. After a forced march from western Pennsylvania to Philadelphia, he was pardoned and returned to Greene County. Reverend Corbly was married three times (Abigail Kirk, Elizabeth Tyler, Nancy Lynn) and had 17 children. Special items for discussion at this year’s reunion will be the John Corbly website, developed by Emmett Butler, a Corbly descendant, as well as information on the Reverend Corbly’s involvement in the Revolutionary War and his original land tract in Greene County. Information on books and CDs detailing Reverend Corbly’s life, times and descendants will be available. Attendees will be encouraged to share their genealogy research and learn the history surrounding the Garards Fort church, cemetery and memorial to the victims of the Indian massacre. The event is open to the public. Anyone interested in the Corbly genealogy and local history of the Garards Fort area is encouraged to attend. For luncheon reservations and/or reunion details contact William Miller, president of the Corbly Association via e-mail: billkathymiller@yahoo. com or phone: 724-627-7129.
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wenty-two individuals won awards during a benefit shoot hosted by the Hunting Hills Hawkeyes, Greene County’s Scholastic Clay Target Program team. The shoot was held last month at Hunting Hills in Dilliner, PA. Participants could compete individually or in teams of five in the shoot of 100 clay targets. Award categories included youth, ladies, male and individual.
The following awards were given: • Highest Overall Male: Champion, Matt Friend of Point Marion, and runner-up, Ronnie Virgili of Jefferson. • Highest Overall Female: Champion, Pam Blaker of Carmichaels, and runner-up, Mary Boyd. • Class A: Champion, Chris Popernack of Bobtown, and runner-up, Rex Buckhalter of Dilliner. • Class B: Champion, Seth Wilson of Waynesburg, and runner-up, Terry Keller of Waynesburg. • Class C: Champion, Tom Coss of Waynesburg, and runner-up, Robert Zurowski. • Highest Overall Youth Male: Champion, Parker Woodring of Carmichaels, and runner-up, Andy Buchtan of Greensboro. • Highest Overall Youth Female: Champion, Camryn Dugan of Jefferson, and runner-up, Montana Bellis of Dilliner. • Collegiate: Champion, Nick Clarke of Carmichaels, and runner-up, Alex Rush of Jefferson. • Varsity: Champion, Todd Nelson of Mather, and runner-up, Seth Taylor of Morgantown. • Intermediate: Champion, Luke Pecjak of Dilliner, and runner-up, Zach Abbott of New Freeport. • Rookie: Champion, Tristan Cole of Waynesburg, and runner-up, Hunter Orrahood of Waynesburg.
The benefit shoot was sponsored by the Greene County Commissioners and Greene County Department of Recreation, and was organized by the Hawkeyes’ coaches and parents. Additional sponsors were 4 Seasons Lawn and Garden, Benamati Water Service, Blue Mountain Engineering, Bortz Chevrolet-Cadillac-Subaru, First Federal Savings and Loan of Greene County, Hinerman Automotive, Hunting Hills, John Chapman, King’s Car Wash, Ozies Sport Shop, Party Lite, The Perfect Arrangement, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Shear Expressions, Sherwin Williams, Sunset Marina, Thistlethwaite Vineyards and Wades, Inc. The Hawkeyes will compete June 15 in the annual Pennsylvania Scholastic Clay Target Program Sporting Clays Championship at Hunting Hills. This event involves youth shooters from across the state competing in a 100-target shoot to determine state winners in five skill divisions. For more information, call the Department of Recreation at 724-852-5323, or visit www.co.greene.pa.us.
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Parker Woodring (left) receives the Highest Overall Youth Male award from assistant head coach Randy Coss at the Hunting Hills Hawkeyes’ annual benefit shoot held Saturday, April 27, at Hunting Hills in Dilliner, PA.
Camryn Dugan (left) receives the Highest Overall Youth Female award from assistant head coach Randy Coss at the Hunting Hills Hawkeyes’ annual benefit shoot held Saturday, April 27, at Hunting Hills in Dilliner, PA.
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he Fort Jackson Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) recently presented NOMAC Drilling with a special certificate of commendation for exemplary patriotism in displaying the flag of the United States of America. The presentation was made in recognition of the grandiose flag that NOMAC Drilling flies every day at its facility in Mt. Morris, PA. “That flag is visible to the thousands of people who drive up and down I-79, and it is a reminder of the pride and sacrifice instilled in the freedoms that flag represents, a reminder of the men and women who have worked and fought for the liberties we enjoy. That’s a reminder we need,” said Jeff Widdup, President of the Fort Jackson Chapter of the SAR. The flag of the United States and what it represents is also celebrated during the annual flag-raising ceremony conducted by the Fort Jackson Chapter of the SAR every June 14th at the Greene County Courthouse. Speakers and special music will be present this year, and the public is strongly requested to come and observe the raising of the flag. The brief ceremony will begin at 8am. Please plan to be at the front of the Greene County Courthouse at 8am, Friday morning, June 14th.
Jeff Widdup, president of Fort Jackson Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution presents certificate of commendation to Lou Spitznogle and Mike Simpson of NOMAC Drilling Company.
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he GreeneSaver is a proud sponsor, for the 10th consecutive year, of the annual Waynesburg Sheep and Fiber Festival Photo Contest & Exhibit. The 2013 contest received 108 entries in the 5 categories, all of which were on display at the Pennsylvania Welcome Center for a few weeks prior to the festival, which was staged at the Greene County Fairgrounds earlier this month. “The judges commented that it was one of the best collections they had seen in one contest – very high quality entries all around. They said it was a difficult choice,” commented Mary Briggs, coordinator of the contest & exhibit. Winners in each category receive monetary awards of $20 for 1st, $15 for 2nd, $10 for 3rd and $5 for 4th place, plus ribbons. In addition, a Best of Show rosette and People’s Choice rosette were awarded. Following are the winners in each category: Animal: 1st place to Samuel Crowe, Dance in the Rain; 2nd place to Samuel Crowe, Ducks in the Doorway; 3rd place to Cathy Butcher, Imperial; 4th place to Ann Newman, 2 Birds. Honorable Mentions also awarded to Breanne Bowman, Taishea Ross, Jerry Hardy and Cathy Butcher in this category. People: 1st place to Elizabeth Rice, Natalie Ramsey; 2nd Place to
Best of Show
Samuel Crowe’s first place Animal Category, Dance in the Rain was also named Best in Show by the judges.
Youth 1st Place:
1st place in youth category, photo by Morgan Dubich titled Your Majesty
Scenery 1st Place: photo by Alan Butcher titled Cucumber Falls
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Carol Lilley, Firefighter Fun; 3rd place to Phyllis Woods, Gimmee a Bite; 4th place to Taishea Ross, Musing. Honorable Mentions also awarded to Taishea Ross and Carol Lilley. Scenery: 1st place to Alan Butcher, Cucumber Falls; 2nd place to Danielle Crooks, Reflections; 3rd Place to Alan Butcher, Cox Farm Bridge; 4th Place to Jerry Hardy, White Bridge on a Peaceful Snowy Day. Honorable Mentions also went to Jerry Hardy, Alan Butcher and Carol Lilley in this category. Still Life: 1st place to Carol Lilley, Blast from the Past; 2nd place to Samuel Crowe, The Doorway; 3rd Place to Taishea Ross, Seeing Green; 4th place to Jerry Hardy, Backyard Peony. Honorable Mention also awarded to Sarah Holzer. Youth: 1st place to Morgan Dubich, Your Majesty; 2nd place to Mason Boni, Doorway to the Past; 3rd place to Cheyanne Danneker, Ziggy Man; 4th Place to Leigha Helmbright, Sunrise. Honorable Mention went to Kelsey Willhoft.
People 1st Place:
photo by Elizabeth Rice, titled Natalie Ramsey
Still Life 1st Place:
photo by Carol Lilley titled Blast from the Past GreeneSaver •
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In-School Youth Program
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aking new friends, learning new things, defining yourself as an individual and maybe even finding your first love - all these things can make up the high school experience. Along with all these discoveries and firsts, it’s also the natural time to start thinking about the future. Even if individuals know what they want their future to be, it can be a frustrating experience to decide things like: What college to choose? Who should I talk to for guidance? Where to even begin? One agency which is designed to help is Southwest Training Services, Inc. According to Youth Case Managers, Ester Clark and Melissa Ziegler, of Southwest Training Services, Inc., the process can be much less of a pain and more of a fruitful experience. Serving the Washington and Greene County area school districts respectively, SWTA Youth Case Managers assist local youth (ages 14 to 21) with solving these dilemmas and helping pave the way for the future. Taking students on college and workplace tours, assisting with application processes, and helping them gain useful career related experiences along the way are just a few examples of how they accomplish this. “Each individual’s case is unique and tailor-made to meet the needs of each youth,” explains Ester Clark. If a youth is interested in pursuing a career in nursing, the experience would obviously be much different from that of a youth interested in pursuing a career in law. “We expose the students to different levels of education; it all depends on what they want to do,” Ester adds. One of the most popular programs and effective methods of providing specific work -related experiences is Southwest Training Services, Inc.’s six-week summer work program. In addition to placing youth in positions in their field of interest when possible, giving them a “hands-on” experience with that particular industry or field, the summer work program helps area youth gain general work experience and develop a work ethic that will give them an additional edge. The summer experience often allows youth to contribute a helping hand in the community, while obtaining a valuable addition to their resume. The work experiences can vary, from office and labor positions to opportunities in their proposed future fields of study, depending on the work sites that are available. Information on eligibility requirements and how to obtain an application to participate in SWTA youth programs is available from all Greene County high school guidance counselors. Southwest Training Services, Inc. is a service provider for the Southwest Corner Workforce Investment Board.
From left to right - Cindy Derrico (Vice President) - Lisa Neil (President) - Melissa Ziegler (Greene County Case Manager) - Ester Clark (Washington County Case Manager).
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Clipper
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“Keep On Clipping!”
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Business Honored at Crystal Owl Ultimate Queen
Kaylee McClimans, granddaughter of Russell and Martha Grim, Wind Ridge, PA and daughter of Wes and Christina McClimans of Jamestown, PA, was named “2013 Keystone Ultimate Queen” in the State Pure American Pageant held April 20th and 21st, 2013, at the Ambassador Conference Center in Erie, PA. She also received awards for most Photogenic and Best Decade Wear. Holding the title last year of “Little Miss North-East States,” she had the privilege of crowning this year’s winner, Joelle Pahanish, a Greene County resident. Pure American Pageant is a Christian-based pageant system for contestants, ages 0 – Adult. Winners and alternates have achieved an invitation to represent Pennsylvania at the National Pure American Pageant in Pigeon Forge, TN on July 10-14, 2013.
Recently, The Challenge Program, Inc. (TCP) held its annual Crystal Owl Community Partner Award Dinner at the Hilton DoubleTree in Pittsburgh. The event began with a private VIP reception with special guest, Pittsburgh Pirates catcher, Michael “Fort” McKenry. The Crystal Owl event honors a business, educator and student who highlight the mission of TCP and/or contributes in a meaningful way so the program can successfully continue to grow and reach further. This year’s 2013 Crystal Owl Honoree is FTS International (FTSI). FTSI is an independent provider of well-stimulation services within the natural gas industry. FTSI sponsored four high schools for 2012-2013 and was a major corporate sponsor through the Pennsylvania Education Improvement Tax Credit program. FTSI visited the high schools, including the career and technology centers, and spoke to students about career opportunities emphasizing the value of TCP. The Challenge Program, Inc. is a nonprofit organization in Johnstown, PA whose mission is to partner with business to motivate high school students, in and out of the classroom. FMI on TCP, call 814-533-7401.
New NHS Members
Mapletown High School recently inducted new members into the Monongahela Chapter of the National Honor Society. The newly elected officers of for the 2013-2014 school year are President, Chesli Wilkins; Vice-President, Ryan Kovach; Secretary, Cassandra Barber; and Treasurer, Abigail Shipley.
Scholarship Awarded The Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Fund Committee has announced that the 23rd annual $1,500 scholarship will be presented to eighteen-year-old Jessica Black of West Greene High School. This scholarship, the twenty-third for the Chamber, is presented each year to a Greene County senior who plans to attend a college, university or trade school. Jessica plans to attend Waynesburg University and major in nursing. The scholarship was presented at the Chamber’s Quarterly Membership Networking Luncheon held on May 22nd, where Jessica and her family were the honored guests and Jessica read her winning essay aloud.
Pictured (l to r) are new and present members Sara Ferrier, Ryan Kovach, Abigail Shipley, Cassandra Barber, Colby Kincell, Julie Minnick, Sara Switalski, Tiffany Yelenik, Chelsie Wilkins, Johnathan Hopkins, and Lauren Adams.
Pollinators Program Presented In celebration of Earth Day, the Carmichaels Area School District was fortunate to have Master Gardeners from the Greene County Master Gardeners Program speak to the Life Skills and Sixth grade classes about pollinator gardens and germination. Students were given germination projects to be completed in the classroom by the Master Gardeners as well as information about starting a pollinator garden. The sixth grade teachers are Fred Morecraft, Becky Mitchell, and Margie Stoffa, and the Life Skills teacher is Zoe Chambers. The presentation took place in the newly constructed Carmichaels High School greenhouse. (l to r) 1st row: Tasha Glover, Megan O’Neil, Kristen Joyner, Joey Kurincak. 2nd row: Shawn Robuck, Jordan Bowlen, Caleb Negley, Gina Ranieri, Stephen Zacoi, Master Gardeners, Jerry Tom and Bridget Vilenica.
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he sun was shining bright as the employees of Southwest Regional Medical Center hosted another successful duck race in support of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Duck Race 2013: Operation Dump a Duck brought together families to enjoy a day of games, food, prizes, an egg hunt and even a magician. Attendees also enjoyed music by Jay’s Jukebox and a Dance with Health Diggity Dog, Southwest Regional’s official mascot. This year’s event was held at the Greene County Fairgrounds. In lieu of their traditional swim down the stream, the ducks were instead hoisted into the air aboard the Waynesburg-Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Company’s fire truck then “dumped” onto a target. The winners of the event were: 1st place: Brian Tennant 2nd place: Chuck Stewart 3rd place: Mary Beth Rudy Last place: Gwynn Kiste The event raised over $7,000 in support of the Greene County Relay for Life.
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ow you can show your pride in Waynesburg University with a custom Pennsylvania license plate. The specialty license plate program is offered to Waynesburg alumni, friends and community members who are Pennsylvania residents. The cost is just $25 for your custom plate. Interested parties can purchase a plate through the Waynesburg University Alumni Office. A total of $5 from the full purchase price can be counted as a taxdeductible gift to the University. The Alumni Office places orders with PennDOT twice a year, in November and June. “The University is fortunate to have such a wonderful family of supporters, so it is pleased to make a Waynesburg plate available not only to alumni, but also to members of the community,” Courtney Dennis, assistant director of Alumni Relations at Waynesburg University, said. Dennis advises those purchasing plates to proceed with license plate renewal as normal, University Museum Curator James D. “Fuzzy” Randolph shows off the new Specialty License regardless of registration expiration. PennDOT Plate with Waynesburg University seal and logo. will send another sticker with your plate. To obtain region. The University is a member of the Council for Christian an application form, call 724-852-3378 or visit Colleges and Universities (CCCU) and is one of only 23 Bonner www.waynesburgunited.com/paplate. Founded in 1849 by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Scholar schools in the country, offering local, regional and Waynesburg University is located on a traditional campus in international opportunities to touch the lives of others through Waynesburg, with three adult centers located in the Pittsburgh service.
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ifty-nine high school students from Greene County’s five school districts competed in the 26th annual Greene County Envirothon held earlier this month at Ryerson Station State Park in Wind Ridge. Teams of five students tested their environmental knowledge in the areas of soils, forestry, wildlife, aquatics and the 2013 current issue, grazing lands and pasture management. Carmichaels Team #1 won this year’s competition with a score of 390 points out of a possible 500 points. Team members Floretta Chambers, Ashley Dotson, Doug Kowalewski, Mackenzie Metcalf and Philip Mikalik, and team advisor Kevin Willis represented Greene County at the state Envirothon on May 21-22 at Juniata College in Huntingdon County. The GreeneSaver went to press prior to the contest, so we didn’t have the results of the state contest at that time. The Greene County Envirothon is organized each year by the Greene County Conservation District and is funded through a grant from the Community Foundation of Greene County’s Pennsylvania Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program through CONSOL Energy. Each student on the winning team secured a $500 college scholarship funded by Alpha Natural Resources. In addition to the continued financial support of Community Foundation Carmichaels Team #1 won this year’s Greene County Envirothon with a score of 390. All winning team members of Greene County, CONSOL Energy and Alpha Natural Resources, received a $500 scholarship from Alpha Natural Resources. Pictured (l-r): Michelle Anderson, Alpha Natural Resources; team member Ashley Dotson; Bettie Stammerjohn, Community Foundation of Greene County; team member Philip other partners that made the event successful include Greene County Mikalik; Tom Headlee, GCCD board director; team member Mackenzie Metcalf; Mike Greiner, state Game Commission; Commissioners Chuck Morris, Archie Trader and Blair Zimmerman; team members Floretta Chambers and Doug Kowalewski; and Kevin Willis, team advisor. Greene County Department of Economic Development; Chuck Shrump and Kevin Paul, U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service; Russ Gibbs, state Department of Conservation Commission; Walt Bumgarner, Penn State Cooperative Extension; Wallace and Pancher, and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry; Alan Johnson and staff, Ryerson Station State Inc.; and Michelle Anderson, Alpha Natural Resources. Park, DCNR Bureau of State Parks; Abbey Owoc and Tyler Brown, state Department of For more information on the Greene County Envirothon, call the Greene County Environmental Protection; Joe Stefko, Brandon Bonin and Mike Greiner, state Game Conservation District at 724-852-5278.
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inety-four runners and walkers braved the pouring rain to turn out for the annual Dock to Lock 5K Run/Walk, held Saturday, May 11, along the Greene River Trail. The race began at 9 a.m. at the trail starting point at the Greene Cove Yacht Club in Jefferson Township. An awards ceremony at the Rices Landing Fire Hall followed the race. Prizes were given for the top three male and female runners and walkers overall, as well as the top three male and female runners and walkers in various age categories.
The top three overall winners in the 5K run were: • Male: First place, Drew McConville, 15, of Waynesburg, 17:48.1; second place, Rich Sandala, 51, of Drew McConville, 15, of Waynesburg receives his first-place overall male award from 2013 Junior Miss Greene County Venetia, 21:15.9; and third Queen Joelle Pahanish after the 2013 Dock to Lock 5K place, Mark Naymick, 56, of Run/Walk, held Saturday, May 11, along the Greene Uniontown, 21:34.2. River Trail. McConville competed in the 5K run. • Female: First place, Ally Younken, 16, of Waynesburg, 22:40.0; second place, Lindsee Zimmer, 14, of Waynesburg, 22:41.1; and third place, Casey Bamberger, 16, of Prosperity, 23:06.0. The top three overall winners in the 5K walk were: • Male: First place, Kenneth Simms, 65, of Washington, PA., 37:17.4; second place, Joseph Julian, 66, of Greensboro, 40:19.9; and third place, Bill Descutner, 68, of Greensboro, 42:06.1. • Female: First place, Linda Keller, 60, of Waynesburg, 40:43.3; second place, Kathryn Simms, 54, of Washington, Pa., 41:51.2; and third place, Jane Descutner, 68, of Greensboro, 45:34.6. The age categories awarded for runners were: 14 and under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 3539, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-69 and 70 plus. For walkers, the age categories awarded were: 19 and under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 and 70-plus. A random drawing for prizes was also held following the race. The following participants won $25 WalMart gift cards: Robert Barnhart of Waynesburg, Joshua Clites of Jefferson, Donna Kurincak of Carmichaels and Brittnie Lockhart of Carnegie. Dock to Lock runners and walkers were timed by Miles of Smiles Timing Service of Ellwood City, PA. Race results may be viewed online at www.smileymiles.com. Proceeds from Dock to Lock benefit Department of Recreation programs, such as the summer Day Camp program, which offers free activities for county children ages 5 to 15. This year, Day Camp will be held June 17 through July 26 at various locations across the county. Sponsors of this year’s Dock to Lock included the Greene County Commissioners, Atlas Energy, Community Bank, First Federal Savings and Loan of Greene County, First Student, Hoy’s Construction Company, Inc., R&D Watters Septic Service, Rices Landing VFD, T-Tygart Industries, WalMart and Waynesburg University. The next race scheduled for the Greene River Trail is the Heroes Run/Walk on Saturday, Sept. 21. The race will feature a 5K run and walk and a 15K run which benefits memorial funds established in honor of Army Spc. Gregory Cox and Marine Lance Cpl. Steven Phillips, both of whom were killed in Iraq. For more information, visit www.co.greene. pa.us.
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Arbor Day Observed
Blood Pressure Screenings Given Students from the Greene County Career and Technology Center in Waynesburg’s PRACTICAL NURSING Program gave blood pressure screenings at the monthly meeting of Town & Country Garden Club.
Little Miss Firecracker The Waynesburg Lions Club will hold the “Little Miss Firecracker Pageant” for girls ages 5-8 years during the July 4th celebration at the Greene County Fairgrounds. Contestants appear in patriotic sportswear and are interviewed on stage. The pageant is noncompetitive - each contestant draws a wrapped flower from a basket and the odd-colored flower determines the winner, who receives a crown, sash, trophy and savings bond. Application deadline is June 21. To obtain an application, call Eleanor Chapman at 724-627-5284.
Vendors Needed Town & Country Garden Club horticulture chairman, Ralph Nicholson, plants a tree in Wana B Park in Carmichaels in observance of Arbor Day. The 4-foot red maple has the potential to grow 20-25 feet in height. Also attending are Ken Ganocy, chairman of the Cumberland Twp. Parks and Recreation Board, and club members, Dianne Nicholson and Marion Walker.
(l to r) Amanda Maskil, SPN; club members Renee Sahady and Terri Laird, Samantha McLaughlin,SPN; club member Janet Matteucci, and Nursing Instructor Judy Swauger.
Scrapbooking Teacher Sought
Nathanael Greene Historical Foundation is sponsoring the 8th annual Art Blast on the Mon, Labor Day weekend in Greensboro at Gazebo Park. The organization is looking for vendors and artists for this event. If interested contact Mary Shine at shine201027@yahoo.com.
Sip of Summer Planned
Waynesburg Community Center is looking for someone to teach the senior citizens to do scrapbooking. If you’re a scrapbooker and could fill this need, call Tina Raber at 724-627-6366.
Denim Day Celebrated The staff of SPHS CARE Center Waynesburg recently participated in Denim Day USA, an initiative to raise awareness of Sexual Violence issues. FMI call the CARE Center STTARS Program at 724-229-5007 or 724-627-6108.
Bobtail Sighting in Greene! Dawn Phillips, of Mother Earth Farm posted this photo of a recent visitor to her greenhouse. She said, “We had a sighting of the Greene County Bobtail Tiger at Mother Earth Farm today. It is Gretchen Marx’s dog Chantilly. Gretchen is my fresh egg supplier and when she dropped off my restock she had her dogs along. The kids got a big kick out of it.”
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On Friday June 21, from 7-10 pm at the Waleski horse farm in Richeyville, the board of trustees and friends of the Fredericktown Area Public Library will have an outdoor wine tasting for guests, who must be 21 to attend. Five wineries from Greene and Washington Counties will showcase their samples: J & D Cellars Winery, Plum Run Winery, Shields Demesne Winery, Thistlethwaite Winery and Walnut Ridge Vineyard. Tickets are $25, which includes a wine glass, a boxed light supper catered by Trisha’s Treats Café of Fredericktown, live entertainment with Bob Podish on guitar, door prizes, several unique vendors, and basket raffles. The Waleskis will provide tours of their residence—the historic Welsh-Emery house—on a limited basis for an additional small fee. Tickets must be purchased in advance! They are available now at the Library, from any Library Board member or Library Friend, at Zebley Law office on Route 40 in Centerville, or through PayPal at www.fredpublib.org. All proceeds directly benefit the Library.
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In Search of …The Spanish Castle
he Spanish Castle of Greene County is forgotten, only remembered by a few. Those who know of the age-old fortress understand it is shrouded in mystery, and at one time was considered one of the most intriguing sites in western Pennsylvania. Henry W. Shoemaker, who was president of the Pennsylvania Folklore Society, felt it was of the utmost importance and should not be forgotten. Built by Count Pedro Grullo in the early 1700s, the fortress was the most extreme northeastern outpost of the Spanish invasion. The ruins are believed to be located somewhere in Richhill Township, the exact location remaining unknown today. The castle once housed many precious metals, such as gold and silver, which had been the dream of explorers for generations. Could gold coins still remain there today? The fortress is believed to have been constructed around the same time the French were pushing their frontier and explorations south. At this time, American Indians, who were imprisoned by the Spanish, were promised their freedom if they built the castle. If they did not comply, they were told they would be taken to Spain where they would be sold into permanent slavery. Fearing not only an unknown, faraway land, but also the Spaniards’ threat, the Indians suffered through back-breaking work, building a structure of the strongest materials and cut stone of that day. The Spanish made good on their promise, freeing the Indians and were proud of their stronghold that had been forged. However, when the French at last pushed far enough south, they dis-
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covered the fortress, and had a mind to take it. A heavy battle pursued, with the French garnishing stronger numbers, flushing the Spanish out, and killing many. This was the beginning of even darker days for the castle. The French turned its dark chambers and foreboding atmosphere into a military prison, where many died of disease and unspeakable horrors. Insanity caused by the cruel conditions was not uncommon. Many years later the fortress was used as a mint, housing great wealth yet again. It was at this time a widow, by the name of Mrs. Stell, wife of the dead man who long kept the mint, was murdered by thieves who looted as much as they could. Mike Fink, who was considered the Paul Bunyan of Southwestern Pennsylvania, heard of this outrage and began his hunt for the murderers. An epic quest began, as he tracked the men by foot along the Ohio River, musket in hand and fur skin wrapped tightly around him for warmth. He at last caught up to the men, holding them at gunpoint. He could have killed them and disappeared with the loot into the vast wilderness. Instead, he marched the men to the law where Fink was quoted: “He who wishes to get rich in a year is hanged in six months.” The history of our region is so compelling that it should not be easily forgotten. We should pass on a history lesson to our youth and loved ones each and every day. Adolf Deynzer, a great man from our area once said to me, “How do we know who we are, if we don’t know where we came from?”
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Making Music & More
f you walk into the Intermediate Unit 1’s Educational Campus at East Franklin on any given day, you may see and hear some unconventional things. For example, Corby Caffrey-Dobosh, a licensed counselor and social worker at the school, has implemented a music program into her daily therapeutic training sessions with the students. “Many of our students have self-regulation issues,” Corby said, “where they may have a difficult time gauging how to behave based on outside cues. In my classes, we work on appropriate behaviors, being mindful of ourselves and others, and other areas in which they may struggle. Music is one means that we use to work on the difficulties the kids may be facing, so that they can do better by figuring out what is going on inside of themselves.” A few months back, Corby appealed to GreeneSaver readers for donations of instruments for the students to use in the classroom, and you responded! “I would have been grateful for one person making a donation,” Corby said. “But instead, I heard from a half a dozen people who had instruments and/or money that they wished to donate. Now, the program has two keyboards, a guitar, and a drum, with an offer of a bell set and a drum pad as well. I am quite touched by the generosity of this community.” Those instruments are kept in Corby’s classroom, and according to Corby, the students are quite excited to use them. “Sometimes we have to have a lottery to see who gets to use them first,” Corby laughed. “It is awesome to see these students take such an interest in something. Some kids have a natural ear for making melodies, and others use the special keyboard function that lights up each key—in order—so that the student can play a melody; but they take such a satisfaction in making the instruments work. They are free to self-express through the music without any expectations of what it should sound like, and it is soothing to them.” Corby said that the music serves a variety of purposes, not the least of which is the camaraderie in the classroom. “It is good for cohesiveness,” she said. “The music these kids make gives them a reason to compliment and encourage one another. It teaches them to be patient and is helping them learn to take turns. It helps them relax, tap into their creative selves, and make better choices. It also functions as a coping mechanism and helps them manage emotions within social norms. For instance, I might play something and then we talk about how it made them feel. That helps them learn what emotions feel like inside, which helps them to recognize those feelings the next time. It has been amazing to see their growth.” “Here at East Franklin, the staff understands something immensely important,” Corby said. “Everyone recognizes the fact that we are not just teaching reading and math, but that we are developing and nurturing children in every aspect of their lives. We want them to feel at home here at school, too. These instruments are just one way that we are working towards that goal.” Corby is still looking for a few more guitars to use with her older kids, and anyone interested in more information or in making a donation should contact her at corbyc@hotmail.com.
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Students at East Franklin Unit 1 Educational Campus use music to learn social and coping skills.
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he 15th Annual Relay For Life was held on May 4 & 5 at Waynesburg Central High School Raider Field of Pride. Escorted by local law enforcement officers and Greene County ABATE, ten students from local high schools carried the torch in the torch run from the high school to the Greene County Courthouse and back. The Opening Ceremony was emceed by Pam Snyder, State Representative, wherein the committee, sponsors and Greene County citizens were recognized for their contributions to the success of the event. Most notably, in 2012 the Relay For Life of Greene County was 2nd in the nation in per capita fundraising for a community with a population under 40,000 persons, raising $6 for every man, woman and child in the county. Also by raising approximately $234,000, the 2012 event ranked 162nd out of 5300 Relays nationwide in total fundraising without regard to population size. As Greene County Commissioners Chuck Morris, Archie Trader and Blair Zimmerman read the survivors’ names, the 120 survivors, along with their caregivers, gathered on the track
the event as an ACS CAN event (American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network) with over 123 members joining this affiliate organization of ACS that serves the political interests of the ACS in the fight against cancer. Later in the evening, the Luminaria Ceremony, sponsored by Carmichaels Area Elementary Faculty and Students, was held to remember those fighting cancer and also those who have lost their lives to cancer. Girl Scout Troop 53591 assisted with the placement of the luminaria bags. Out of the 26 teams, the winners of the campsite decorating contest were Team Giant Eagle and Moose Family Pride, tied for first place, West Greene Pioneers for second place and Central Greene School District for third place. The winner of the spirit stick contest was Greene County & Friends Team. The winner of the Relay Queen contest was Tyler Mega from Bethlehem Center Community Team. Several Mini-Relays were also held as a part of the community Relay For Life and included Waynesburg University, Jefferson Morgan Elementary, North Ten Mile Baptist Church Youth Group, Rocking Rolling Meadows and Central Greene School District. Jacki Headlee, Event Chair, said “It really is a great day full of so many emotions. It’s great reconnecting with fellow Relayers and Survivors that we may not have seen since last year— it’s like a reunion. But it’s more than just that day—all year long, the committee, teams, volunteers, organizations, schools, churches and businesses from Greene County work together to raise funds for cancer awareness, cancer patient services and cancer research.” Margie Smith, ACS Senior Community Income Development Representative, reflected on the event by saying, “In the months leading up to the Relay and also in the Opening Ceremony, people were encouraged to participate in the Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS3). Greene County, as usual, stepped up to the plate and exceeded the goal and registered 132 participants. When the cure is found, those participants will be able to say, I played a part in history.” To date, the 2013 Relay for Life of Greene County has raised approximately $180,000. Donations can still be made until August 31. For more information, call Margie Smith, American Cancer Society at 724-222-6911.
for the ceremonial Survivor’s Lap. Leading the Survivors’ Lap was 2013 Relay Ambassadors, Addy Morrison, 5, and Colby Simkovic, 11, both of Jefferson. The survivors and their caregivers enjoyed a luncheon catered by Dan Wagner and the Greene County Career & Technology Culinary Arts Students and entertainment by Heaven Bound Ministries. Some of the day’s activities included children’s games, frozen T-shirt contest, music, entertainment and line dancing. When not participating or taking a brief rest, team members could be found taking turns walking laps for the 24 hours, symbolizing that cancer doesn’t sleep. During the Fight Back/Pack the Track/ACS CAN lap, a lap was walked celebrating
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GreeneScene by Jamie Braddock
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W
ith the popularity of the Holiday Open House and other events in mind, the Open House committee of Waynesburg Prosperous & Beautiful decided to really blow it out this summer with First Fridays. On the first Friday evening of each month of summer – June, July & August – you’ll find live entertainment, street vendors, food and fun from 5-8pm in downtown Waynesburg, as the merchants keep their doors open and offer special savings and incentives to shop. “It’s a concept that many communities are finding quite popular among the shoppers and guests. Live entertainment and music, plus special activities and good food, always make for more fun,” said Karen Calvert, chairperson of the committee, “and people love to come out on warm summer evenings just to visit with each other and watch what’s going on…downtown Waynesburg really comes alive. I want people to know that Waynesburg is the ‘biggest’ little town in this region!” Several street vendors, including some from the downtown Waynesburg Farmers Market, and the award winning Moore’s Hot Dogs, Ice-burgh Shaved Ice and others will be present at each event. Greene County Tourism is once again providing professional caricaturist Jeff Harris for free caricatures at the June & August events. However, the overall theme of each First Friday from month to month is very different, with diverse entertainment and additional activities. It begins with “Flashback Friday” on June 7th. The Greene County Greaser Doug Wilson will spin oldies from the courthouse steps and host contests like Hula-Hooping, bubble-gum blowing, dancing and costume. Professional Hula Hooper Wendy Reviota, who won many fans when she appeared at last summer’s open house event, will be
back on the First Friday in June strolling the streets as she performs. The committee is also inviting classic car owners to cruise into town that night; special parking will be made available on Church Street. On the First Friday of July, the theme is “Rock the Chalk Friday” when the courthouse veranda will serve as a stage for the band LocaL, and the sidewalks will be decorated with chalk drawings by local artists. “We already have several artists signed up to compete for awards for their sidewalk chalk art, and in addition to the competition, there will be designated areas for children of all ages to do their own impromptu chalk drawings,” explained Athena Bowman, committee member. “We will provide the chalk for free to anyone who wants some, and we have a local salon doing free hair chalking, too.” On August 2nd, the First Friday of August, the theme is “Foodie Friday” with gourmet food trucks/vendors stationed on each block and various live musicians performing acoustic music throughout downtown. In addition to the entertainment and food, a $100 raffle will be held during each of the three events, with $2 tickets buying a chance to win four $25 gift certificates that can be spent at any of the participating merchant locations this year. “There are over 30 participating merchants, and you can spend your gift certificates at any of them or several of them, however you want. Add to that the special sales and some of them have door prizes and refreshments, too. You will not want to miss the First Friday of any month this summer in downtown Waynesburg,” added Karen. For a list of participating merchants, check the WP&B website www. waynesburgpa.org. The entire series of First Fridays in downtown Waynesburg is being sponsored by CONSOL Energy.
Professional Hula-Hooper Wendy Reviota will return to downtown Waynesburg for First Friday June 7th.
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Fun at Flenniken Making Music
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he Flenniken Public Library is pleased to present a performance by Commonwealth Speaker Paula Purnell, an educator and musician from Greensburg in: Homemade Music in Pennsylvania on Tuesday, May 28th at 6:30 p.m. in the library. The program is appropriate for all ages and is free and open to the public. “Homemade Music in PA” explores how people in Pennsylvania have been making music - and their own instruments - for ages. Paula covers music of the Eastern Woodlands Indians, African American field holler and Appalachian story songs. Long before we learned how to download music from the internet, people in Pennsylvania knew how to make music out of whatever raw materials were available. FMI call 724-966-5623
Making Magic
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oc Dixon will return to Carmichaels with his amazing magic show “Dig Into Reading Magic Show”on June 10th at 6:00 p.m. at the Flenniken Public Library. The show will be in the newly remodeled Kids’ Zone, and is free and open to the public. As an added attraction, Doc’s magical bunny, Butch, will assist with the show. The event is family-friendly and open to all ages. This year’s Summer Reading Program themes are “Dig into Reading” for toddlers through 5th grade and “Beneath the Surface” for students entering grade 6 and older, and “Groundbreaking Reads” for adults. The programs will run for six weeks beginning the week of June 16th. The activities are designed to keep kids reading during the summer by participating in a fun series of programs. Registration opens June 3rd. In addition, free lunches will be served to any child age 18 or younger, Monday through Friday, from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., June 17th through July 26th. More details are available at www.flenniken.org. Visit the library’s website www.flenniken.org for library services 24 hours a day, including access to WAGGIN, the online library catalog, the POWER Library online research tools, Overdrive downloadable e-books and audiobooks, our local history digital library, and carefully selected websites to help you find the information you need. The library staff is also happy to help with reference questions by phone 724-966-5263 during regular library hours. Library Hours: Mon-Thu: 10am-7pm & Fri-Sat: 10am-5pm.
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