SEPTEMBER 2020
• GreeneScene Community Magazine
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FEATURES 4
I LOVE THIS PLACE
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GREENESCENE OF THE PAST
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GREENE ARTIFACTS
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SHINING THE LIGHT
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COUNTY OF GREENE
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SPORTS SHORTS
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PUBLIC SERVICE PROFILE
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INTENTIONAL WALKS
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GOING GREENE
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GOOD NEWS IN GREENE
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MESSAGE BOARD
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MEET THE TEAM
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BUSINESS SECTION
Nemacolin, PA
UMWA Union Hall - Nemacolin, PA The Wainey
Our Lady of Consolation - Nemacolin, PA Greene County Maintenance Department A snapshot of Greene County sports SAFE - Supportive & Affective Family Education Greene County sports and pandemics A cold night of fishing
Awards & acknowledgements within our community Community announcements and opportunities Meet GreeneScene contributor, Stephanie Lampe Featuring our Business Spotlights
EXTRAS 21
GREENE COUNTY IS COUNTING ON YOU
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WEDDING SECTION
Complete the 2020 Census today!
Getting married in 2020? We’re here to help!
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LOVE IN THE TIME OF CORONAVIRUS
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GATHER ‘ROUND FOR THE BABUSHKA DANCE
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THE RIGHT PLACE FOR THE RIGHT TIME
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CHOOSING THE PERFECT COLORS FOR YOUR WEDDING
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THE MEANING OF FLOWERS
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GET TO KNOW DR
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Our print shop is ready to help with your wedding!
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GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
SEPTEMBER 2020
• GreeneScene Community Magazine
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I
I Love this P l a ce
’ve come to Nemacolin just in time for the festival at the fire hall and a chance to eat a pulled pork sandwich, fresh from the spit. Not too big this year because of COVID-19. Still, games to play and things to win are set up outside and kids and their parents are having fun as evening settles in. When Buckeye Mine was still open, the whole town turned out for a day of celebration with parades of fire trucks, bands and coal miners marching through town, down Pershing Boulevard, a.k.a Bosses Row, past the company store to the heart of town. That empty but impressive old supply store building is still standing, just across the street from the Post Office in the downstairs of the UMWA 6290 District 2 building. When Buckeye Mine closed in 1986, Nemacolin slowly became a bedroom community for those who chose to stay and drive to work somewhere else. Homes were sold, some at tax sales, some stood empty, some became poorly maintained rental properties. The ensuing decades of neglect took its toll. But in recent years, with the economy changing direction amid a countywide housing shortage, working families eager to buy a home for a reasonable price are in luck. This old but well-built coal town with its sturdy infrastructure is ready to make their ownership dreams come true. Fire department member Ed Helman takes a break from festival duty to show me some of the houses that the Redevelopment Authority of Greene County is in the process of renovating. RAGC purchased thirteen properties in June and plans to remove several blighted structures and rehabilitate the rest. RAGC helps potential new homeowners who have had their finances vetted through Blueprints (formerly Community Action Southwest) to apply for a property. The first two years of mortgage payments are made to RAGC, then the program walks participants through the bank mortgage process. Ed tells me that he received a zero interest loan through the redevelopment authority to fix up his own house. The Nemacolin project has $100,000 earmarked for these loans. We take a drive through narrow streets stretching up the slope above Pershing Boulevard to a bird’s eye view of the surrounding hills and the Monongahela River below. We stop to take a photo of the yellow brick house that is being readied for market. Whoever buys this home will be living in a town that feels almost European in its layout, brimming with possibility. And yes, the price is right. Nemacolin was widely praised as a model coal town for its day, designed by engineers and built by Youngstown Sheet and Tube Company on 78 acres of pastureland above McCann’s Ferry. The vision was to build a cutting edge industrial town that satisfied every working family’s needs. Houses would have all the modern conveniences – indoor plumbing, running water, storm drains and electricity. The world was at war and steel was in high demand in 1917 when work began on the slope for Buckeye Mine. Materials were ferried over from Fayette County and the race was on to build a town for the hundreds of workers it would take to keep Buckeye Mine viable for the next 70 years. “Coal was struck in the airshaft by Dravo Corporation” on February 2, 1918, Nemacolin native Robert A. Korcheck tells us in his book Nemacolin: the Mine - the Community. That year wells were drilled for fresh water, a sewage plant was built, electric poles were set, the company store opened and the 240-some workers living on site formed a baseball team. A
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NEMACOLIN, PA
By Colleen Nelson
hospital, built in a single day in March with steam heat – the first in the county and just in time for the Spanish Influenza pandemic that left five dead in Nemacolin that season. Streets were graded and lined with company houses, painted black with creosote and whitewash trim. Bosses Row got built, the post office opened and by fall 1919 the new elementary school took in its first students. The amusement building added in 1920 housed a theater, bowling alley, pool tables, barbershop, dance floor, beauty shop Construction of a new gas-powered power plant can be seen in the distance, running alongside the Nemacoand a restaurant. It was lin ‘slate dump.’ Also known as a gob pile or spoil tip, it’s remnants of waste material from coal mining. a fine sight with its high arched facade over the front door, giving the When I call lifelong resident Toby Korcheck to let her heart of town a big city look. The road up the hill to Carmi- know what a fun read her late husband’s book has been for chaels was a muddy rutted slog most of the year but by 1921 this story, I get a living tour d’ force of the good old days growtownsfolk could walk down the brick surfaced slope and take ing up in the best coal town in America. “We had a roller rink Pennsylvania Railroad’s occasional passenger cars to Browns- and a pool. We had everything you could possibly want. I’ll ville to shop. Buckeye Coal Company may have owned the never leave and I’m leaving my house to my son.” The pool land and all the buildings, but miners weren’t paid in script that opened to great fanfare after the miners got their own and at the top of the hill where company ownership ended, UMWA charter was below the crest of the hill and people Charles and Harry Ruttenburg had a department store with came from miles around to enjoy it. competitively priced goods. Other stores and establishments But the slope still runs to the river and the abandoned that sprang up along the road included a hotel, gaming rooms rail line has already been converted to Greene River Trail as and other things not generally tolerated in Nemacolin. The far as Crucible. Much of the old mine acreage is now wildlife coal company landlord held the power of job loss and evic- habitat - the Nemacolin Boy Scouts planted 608,000 seedling tion for not following the rules – including unionizing - over trees between 1925 and 1937. And luckily, there is still a scout miners and their families and kept a private police force to troop in the area and families in town with kids who want enforce them. to play outside and enjoy what Greene County has to offer. Korcheck’s sleuthing in the Waynesburg Republican re- Whatever happens next will depend on what this new generaveals that on November 11, 1922, Harry Ruttenburg was ar- tion of neighbors and friends decide they want to get together rested for “selling beer and having in his possession several and do. cases.” Prohibition was on the prowl and this was the first case to make the papers. That year a 1916 Buick automobile was converted into the town’s first fire truck, loaded with two 40-gallon acid-soda tanks, two hand held extinguishers., axes, hose spanners and a ladder. By 1925 there were 400 houses in Nemacolin and on December 8 the mine produced 5,222 tons of coal. Nemacolin miners survived, thrived and made sure their kids spoke good English and got a good education. Mining families made it through wildcat strikes, the Great Depression and World War II into the age of long wall mining and the gradual depletion of coal reserves. Old timers were happy to stay put and cheer as their kids and grandkids fledged to better jobs and went on to live the American Dream. When the company began selling the houses in 1946 for $1000, families Ed Helman holds a copy of Robert Korchek’s book about Nemacolin, bought their homes and settled into a town they could now while standing in front of a home being renovated by RACG. call their own. GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
SEPTEMBER 2020
• GreeneScene Community Magazine
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G reen e Sce n e of the Pa st
This photo is a point in time to remember – It’s 1950 and Nemacolin’s new UMWA headquarters on Pershing Boulevard is under construction. The basement that will someday house the post office is already done and the steel girders of the walls and roof frame the center of town. It’s a snapshot in time that will soon be gone - the old post office in the company parts store building burned in 1961 and the Nemacolin Supply Company store in its heyday, complete with decorative shrubbery. “I like the old car,” UMWA 6290 Financial Secretary Skip Homerock says as I take a look at the photos he brought and realize this one is the perfect blast from the past to write about. What better image to show the strength and tenacity of a coal town than a photo of its union hall being built? I’m sitting upstairs in that same building, ready to listen to three retired miners talk about all things coal. Skip gets me a Dr. Pepper and we settle in to swap enough stories to fill a book. Recording Secretary Bruce Black got to Buckeye Mine in 1974, after three tours in Vietnam. He points to the photos on the wall and chuckles. “Those used to be the old timers when we started. We’re the old timers now.” Much of today’s UMWA focus is on protecting pensioners. Many have black lung and all need the security of a pension and quality health care. I was on the ride to Washington D.C. in 2016 when 20,000 miners and their families arrived, not to talk politics but to stage a bipartisan rally to ask condescribes life in the rooms gress to protect their penand passages and miles of sions and health insurance. track that made up Buckeye “We won that one,” Mine when he and Adam president Adam McKean went underground as white says with a huge smile. hats. I have a hard time Bruce - “Blackie” to wrapping my head around anyone who worked with the many directions this rock him in the mine – speaks dusted world took with its Skip Homerock, Adam McKean, and Bruce Black in front of the curthe language of coal – cage, rent day union hall and post office. sections of tunnels leading fire boss, motorman, power to the face of the coal being switch, emptier, motor cut, loaded and hauled out. barn, second south - as he I’m suddenly eager to come back and hear more, to document
By Colleen Nelson
this story while those who lived it are still here to tell it. Later, as we tour the many photographs, UMWA charters, signs and accolades that fill the walls I’m delighted to spot a framed photograph of my neighbor Rosanna Lane standing with a group of mine buddies. Women won the court case that allowed them to work underground in the late 1970s and Rosie was one of the first to wear a hard hat and work at Buckeye Mine until it closed in 1986. “I worked with all the women miners when they came in – Rosie, Mary, Carol, Sherry Janie, Mary Jane, Aldine…. They were good; they wanted to learn. Tell Rosie Blackie said hi!”
If you have an interesting old photo from the area you’d like to share, just send it to: GreeneScene of the Past, 185 Wade Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370. Or email to: info@greenescene.com with GreeneScene Past in subject line.
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GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
Gre e ne Art ifacts By Matthew Cumberledge, GCHS Executive Director
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THE WAINEY
he Old Second Number 4 of the Waynesburg and Washington Railroad has been a significant part of the Greene County Historical Society since it was brought to the museum from the Greene County Fairgrounds on June 6, 1974. The Wainey, as Second Number 4 is now known, has played a vital role in the history of the region for far longer than the 46 years it has been at the Greene County Historical Society Museum. Built in 1916 and operating on the Waynesburg and Washington Railroad from 1916 to 1933, the Wainey is fondly remembered by the folks of Greene and Washington counties and remains a vital reminder of the early industrial history of our region. Perhaps in the only instance in the county, the narrow gauge Wainey still exists very much in its original state and is paired with Coach Number 6; Coach Number 6 is also part of the rolling stock of the Waynesburg and Washington Railroad. The Wainey and the coach are slowly coming out of retirement and showing signs of life. Over the past two years, restoration efforts have been underway. The Wainey has received a fresh coat of paint and is looking as good as the day she rolled off the manufacturing line. Old Coach Number 6 is also being rejuvenated. The coach has not fared as
SEPTEMBER 2020
well as the Wainey over the years and will be seeing a lot of restoration work over the next few years. Most exciting perhaps, the train shed at the Greene County Historical Society Museum that is home to the Wainey is undergoing renovation to allow the coach to be moved inside and out of the weather where work can continue and the rough effects of our seasonal weather will be halted, preventing further damage to the delicate passenger car. On your next visit to the Greene County Historical Society Museum be sure to ask the staff to see the Wainey and the coach and get an update on the restoration efforts. If you are interested in helping out, please follow GCHS and the Waynesburg and Washington Railroad on Facebook to check out opportunities to get hands on and help out with this incredible project!
• GreeneScene Community Magazine
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he drive to Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Church from the UMWA Union Hall involves taking a hard right at the end of the row of original company houses that flank the street behind the hall. My front wheels grab the edge of the road as the view of the town below emerges from the greenery. I’m following UMWA president Adam McKean, the self appointed protector of this now empty church. The speaker in its steeple once rang the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. with bells and chimes, along with carols on Christmas. When the Diocese of Pittsburgh decided to consolidate resources, dwindling congregations were a major consideration. St. Thomas in Clarksville, Sacred Heart in Rices Landing, St. Mary in Crucible and Our Lady of Consolation in Nemacolin would close their churches and merge with St. Hugh in Carmichaels. Parishioners voted to rename the parish St. Matthias and Father Albin McGinnis and Father Francis Frazer continue to officiate over St. Hugh, St. Ann in Waynesburg, St Ignatius in Bobtown and St. Marcellus in Jefferson. They deliver weekday and weekend masses, with weekday mass also posted live online for the homebound. “You could hear the bells ringing all over town. I miss that.” To Adam, going to St. Hugh now is no problem. “Church to me is where I am when they’re doing mass. I’ve done mass in fields, in barracks, in basilicas, in little churches.” We walk around the building, past the front steps where Adam had his wedding photos taken in 1976 and around the corner to the empty frame parsonage, attached to the brick walls of the church proper. There are bowls by the back door someone fills with food for stray cats. Near the corner of the back fence is what I remember being charmed by when I was here in 2018 for the funeral of my sister’s father-in-law Leonard Udovich. Two small curved benches in front of a little stone grotto that still glows with gold paint. Looking inside I see the statue of Mary has left her grotto. Plastic lilies lie scattered in the grass and all that remains inside is the face of her Son on a prayer card, shrouded in plastic, looking back at me with shadowed eyes. Father Nazemick had the grotto made, Adam tells me. “Used to have a cross on top but kids knocked it off.” Nuns and novices would sometimes stay in the parsonage during the summer, parish priests would sometimes live here for their tenure. Adam remembers being asked by resident priests to do repairs and sometimes being inspired to prank the good father, coal miner style. Like the time he put a nickel in the end of the parish hose and screwed it back on the faucet head…. Is this church on the market? Adam shakes his head. “We haven’t heard.” When Buckeye Coal Company envisioned its model industrial town in 1917, churches for their Protestant and Catholic workers were part of the plan. Lots were set
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By Colleen Nelson aside but it would be years before churches were built. Our Lady of Condolences celebrated its first mass on December 25, 1928 and would finally close in 2018, a few months after the funeral that brought me here with my extended family to say goodbye to Big Len. Adam has more stories to tell. The church was burned during one of the wildcat mine strikes of the late 1920s into the depression years. “The company turned off the water all over town and the boiler blew up. Parishioners got together to fix it, even the Protestants helped.” Robert Korcheck’s book tells us that when tensions between UMWA workers and the company police exploded into a riot on December 2, 1933, teargas was used and a number of protestors were chased to the church by mounted police. “Many lay bleeding and exhausted on the church steps as police charged them. At this point Father Joseph Altany…. in spite of objections from police ordered them with language not customarily used by the clergy off church property.” The statue of Jesus still stands beside the church signage on the front lawn. Adam remembers the morning a few years after the mine closed, when he found it pitched head down on the lawn. It took his father in law’s tractor and a handful of strong men to get it back on its pedestal and properly glued and bolted in place. “But some of the fingers were damaged so Len Udovich took it home first and fixed them.” I look into the sky and see the upraised hands, every finger perfect. I think of the years spent celebrating Russian Christmas at Big Len’s house overlooking the river, high above Pershing Boulevard. I think of our extended family gathered around him and the twinkle that never seemed to leave his eyes when he was with the ones he loved. Of course Big Len fixed those fingers. He was one of the best mine mechanics around. He could fix anything!
Adam McKean stands before Our Lady of Consolation church, now closed as part of the Catholic church consolidations. GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
Co u nt y
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GREENE COUNTY MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT
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hen Greene County Director with weather throughout the process, but a of Buildings and Grounds Jeff month later the job was complete.” Novak initially accepted his poCurrently, Jeff says a top priority for his sition, the department was known as the team is making sure that Greene County’s Greene County Bridge Department, with courthouse is kept up to the CDC standards a sole focus of maintaining the 87 different for cleanliness during the pandemic. bridges owned by Greene County. “We make sure that the HVAC system Today, the department has expanded is properly circulating clean air through the to not only maintaining bridges, but also courthouse 24/7,” says Jeff. “Our custodial performing maintenance and repair on the staff does a deep cleaning of the building many of the buildings owned by the county, three times a day and is constantly sanitizincluding the courthouse. Grounds upkeep ing and disinfecting.” and snow removal also come under Jeff ’s Jeff doesn’t hesitate to add that at the supervision. heart of it all, maintaining the county’s 87 “We are a small department,” says Jeff. bridges is still one of the department’s big“We have four custodians and we employ a gest sources of pride. team of licensed carpenters and contractors “We are one of the few counties that to help us out as needed. We usually split do our own maintenance on our bridges,” into two groups, with one group responsible Jeff says. “Most of the bridges throughout for the bridges and the other concentrating the township are county owned, and twice a on renovations at the courthouse and other year we go out to clear weeds or overgrowth, buildings as needed.” power wash, and make sure the bridges look A recent such project was the replace- good and are safe. It is a source of pride for ment of the roof on the county-owned us and shows how we have grown.” building that houses the Airport Restaurant and several offices located at the Greene County Airport. After the previous roof succumbed to weather damage, Jeff and his team were called in to make the repairs, which required the installation of a new metal roof. “We started the project in January by assessing the damage and pricing the required materials,” Jeff says. “We went with a metal roof Jeff Novak, Director of Buildings and Grounds, and his debecause it was the most afpartment help maintain county properties, including bridges. fordable. We had to deal
SEPTEMBER 2020
• GreeneScene Community Magazine
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Sp o r t Sh or t s
By GreeneSports Staff Writer
2020 High School Football Season Preview CARMICHAELS. The 2020 football season will be the first as head coach of the Mighty Mikes for former defensive coordinator Ron Gallagher. This will be Gallagher’s sixth season with the Blue and Gold and he will look to improve on last year’s 4-5 record, keeping the Mikes out of the postseason for a secondstraight year in Class 2A. However, a return to the Tri-County South Conference of Class A will certainly give Carmichaels’ playoff hopes a boost. Job number one for Gallagher will be to replace several highly productive seniors who have graduated, several of whom are heading off to collegiate playing careers. Senior Trent Piper leads the group after being named first-team All-Century Conference at defensive line. He plans to continue his playing days at Waynesburg University. Quarterback Kevin Kelly earned a reputation for being able to produce with his arm and legs. Wide receivers Al Cree and Michael Robison, as well as running back Jonathan Lilley are also gone from the skill position ranks. Along with Piper, Gallagher will need to replace senior standouts Jacob Buttermore and Steve Spehar in the trenches. Despite their losses, the Mikes expect to bring in one of the conference’s top players into 2020 in senior Bailey Jones. Jones was a first-team All-Century Conference pick at linebacker and was a regular contributor to Carmichaels’ stable of running backs. As of early August, the Mighty Mikes are scheduled to open their season at home on Sept. 11 against arch-rival Jefferson-Morgan. JEFFERSON-MORGAN. In terms of young skill players who can pass the eye test, no one in Greene County looks more impressive than the Rockets. Head coach Aaron Giorgi hopes to turn that potential into wins following a 3-7 season and a seventh-straight year without a trip to the postseason. Among this year’s cast of 24 expected returners are 6-4 junior quarterback/wide receiver Colt Fowler, 6-0 sophomore wide receiver Dalton Heath, 6-5 senior wide receiver Owen Maddich and 5-11, 230-pound senior running back Jonathan Wolfe. Wolfe (offense) and Maddich (defense) were both named firstteam All-Tri-County South Conference following the 2019 campaign.
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Wolfe racked up a team-high 1,012 yards on nine touchdowns on 164 carries. Fowler was the team’s leading receiver after snaring 18 receptions for 302 yards. Rising sophomore Cole Jones, who saw most of the snaps last season as a freshman, completed 52 of 158 passes for 779 yards and six touchdowns. The bulk of the Rocket linemen are expected to return, but the team lost a pair of senior leaders in Justin Silbaugh and Julian Sisler. Developing effective linemen on both sides of the football is high on Giorgi’s to-do list, as he has no seniors, 10 sophomores and two juniors among this year’s crop of big men. As previously mentioned, J-M is scheduled to renew its rivalry with Carmichaels on Sept. 11 to open its schedule. It will be the first time since 2018 that the two squads have met in a varsity game. MAPLETOWN. The 2019 Maples featured a small, inexperienced roster that featured around 20 players with just five seniors. Numbers like that typically forecast a challenging season. This was certainly the case, as the Black and Gold went 2-8. In a very unique bit of schedule making, both Maple victories came against Avella. Despite the growing pains, George Messich’s team is expected to bring back a trio of All-Tri-County South honorees in rising sophomores Landan Stevenson and Cohen Stout and rising junior Max Vanata. Stevenson impressed in his first high school season by leading the team in rushing with 987 yards on 186 carries. He also scored a squad-best 18 touchdowns and posted a teambest 19 catches for a squad-high 370 yards. Stout, who played running back on offense and line on defense, grabbed six catches for 34 yards and ran the ball 24 times for 131 more. Vanata proved to be a capable quarterback my logging 42 completions on 100 attempts with 571 yards and four touchdowns. This year’s crop of linemen will be led by seniors Colton Greene and Blake Holbert. Junior Gaige Shaw has tremendous size at 6-1, 280. This year’s group of returning veterans will be counted upon to replace 6-1, 300-pound Lucas Hall. The Maples are scheduled to open the season with an intra-county showdown against two-time defending Tri-County South cham-
pion, West Greene. WA Y N E S B U R G CENTRAL. Two years ago, Waynesburg Central was not only moved up from Class 2A to 3A, but put into the Tri-County West Conference with powerhouses Central Valley, Aliquippa and Beaver Falls among others. Even the road trips were brutal, as all of the Raiders’ conference opponents hailed from Beaver or Allegheny counties. Thanks to the WPIAL’s bi-annual realignment, the Raiders were not only moved back into 2A, but into a much more geographically friendly Century Conference that features Washington County schools in Beth-Center, Charleroi, Chartiers-Houston, McGuffey and Washington along with Fayette County’s Frazier. The Raiders’ biggest losses to graduation came along the line, where seven of the team’s listed 13 offensive linemen have graduated. However, rising senior Luke Maley brings size (6-4, 270) and experience to the trenches for 2020. Rising senior Darnell Johnson saw plenty of snaps at quarterback, where he completed 24-of-60 passes for 369 yards and four touchdowns. He was also one of the team’s top ball carriers, going for 664 yards on 122 totes. Rising senior Nick Higginbotham recorded 23 totes for 106 yards and also pulled in a pair of catches for 45 yards as a junior. The Raiders are scheduled to kick the season off on Sept. 11 with a home game against Beth-Center. WEST GREENE. The 2019 West Greene Pioneers showcased a level of dominance that has not been seen in Greene County in a very long time. The Blue and Gold rolled to a 7-0 start to the year that saw them beating teams by an average score of 53-11. After losing its first game of the year to Clairton in week eight, West Greene closed out the year and a Tri-County South Title by taking its final two games by a combined score of 121-34. After going 1-1 in the postseason to finish the season, the Pioneers faced the reality of life
Photo courtesy Randy Miller.
without superstar running back Ben Jackson, who was not only one of the most dominant forces in the WPIAL and the state, but in the country. Jackson has since taken his talents north to West Point to compete for the Army Black Knights. Head coach Brian Hanson and his staff will not only need to replace Greene County’s all-time leading rusher, but they’ll also have big holes to fill with the graduation of arguably the team’s top two linemen in Brock Bedilion and Greg Staggers. Kolin Walker, who rushed for 952 yards and was maybe the hardest hitter on the team, is also gone. Rising junior Nathan Orndoff completed 16-of-35 passes for a team-high 267 yards and three touchdowns. He could be in for a bigger role with nearly 4,000 yards rushing graduating in Jackson and Walker. Speaking of running the football, rising junior Corey Wise brings size (5-11, 195) and production (14 carries for 192 yards and four catches for 65 yards) to the new season and will likely be the focal point of both the offense and defense. In the trenches, last year’s roster listed eight sophomore linemen, several of which saw action. Kevin Thompson, a soccer player who turned to football after the co-op between Waynesburg Central and West Greene broke down, turned out to be a very useful weapon both by scoring points (43 extra points) and pinning opponents deep on kickoffs. Should he stick with the sports, be even more valuable as a sophomore. The Pioneers are scheduled to kick off the season on Sept. 11 with a home game against Mapletown.
GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
SEPTEMBER 2020
• GreeneScene Community Magazine
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Public Service Profile By Michelle Church
SUPPORTIVE & AFFECTIVE FAMILY EDUCATION (SAFE)
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ecessity is the motherhood of invention,” Plato philosophized. The SAFE program was an idea that grew from need. SAFE Parenting (Supportive and Affective Family Education) is for parents of Greene County with alcohol or drug-related issues. The program’s number one goal: remain clean and sober. The program began in 2012. Emily Luckey, SAFE Supervisor, explains the program’s origins: “The Greene County Family Center held parenting classes for families in Greene and realized that there was a need to focus on parents in recovery from addiction. The topics needed to not only talk about basic needs of children, but also needed to be more comprehensive to include things like parenting styles, support systems, strengths and needs.” Parents attend a once weekly course that takes place over seven weeks. The curriculum is called Families in Recovery and is an evidence-based method. To be successful in the program, attendance is critical. “The curriculum being used is a good foundation to have in place before we start to enter the home,” Emily shares. “We try to ensure no obstacles for why they cannot attend. We can even possibly provide transportation to the class, if they have no other transportation.” The Families in Recovery curriculum helps participants with parenting and healthy coping skills while balancing their own recovery. The class covers topics such as: Developing an Understanding of Discipline and Development, Identifying Parent a n d Fami l y
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Strengths and Needs. Everyone involved with running the SAFE program cares deeply about helping the parents be successful in the program. The curriculum is created to fit the needs of each particular family. After parents finish the course, they are given a certificate and begin in-home visitations with the SAFE Specialists. Visits start as weekly visitations, and as progress is made, families can move on to every other week and then monthly. Each parent is taught to focus on five goals; three are short term goals and two are longer term goals. “The staff works with the parents to ensure their choice of treatments are being followed, as we are not drug and alcohol treatment, but a parenting program for parents in recovery,” Emily states. Many families involved with SAFE are referred by Children & Youth Services (CYS). When SAFE sets up a family’s goals, they ensure that the goals align with the CYS service plan. This helps to confirm that CYS needs are met and can result in CYS not being called again. To keep the program running smoothly despite COVID-19 restrictions, most visits are currently taking place via Zoom or phone calls. Families feel that they get more out of in person meetings though, so some families have requested to meet face to face when possible. One SAFE Specialist is assigned to work with each family. For anyone who would like to join the SAFE program, or has questions or referrals, call 724-852-5276 and ask for SAFE Parenting or ask for Emily or Briana.
GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
Intentional Walks
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By Bret Moore
ith professional, college and high school seasons upon us, I wondered how the last great pandemic affected the sports world a century ago; there are many similarities to our current plight. The Spanish Flu hit America in March of 1918 and although it was called the “Spanish Flu”, the first known case was on an army base in Kansas. The global spread was due primarily to the transport and travel associated with World War I. The outbreak claimed between 50-100 million lives worldwide. A total of 500 million people became infected – one third of the world’s population at that time. Baseball was the most popular sport in that day, and the owners decided to play on because of financial reasons. After a handful of deaths among players and umpires, many wore masks even on the field. The Boston Red Sox were hit particularly hard during spring training, including pitcher Babe Ruth. During that time, Ruth pitched fewer games and played more often in the field that year because of the lingering affects of the virus. As a result, he hit a league leading 11 homeruns. He had hit only nine in his previous four seasons in the league. The move to the outfield became permanent. Due to the lack of major league players because of the war and the pandemic, the season was cut short by a month. The Red Sox defeated the Chicago Cubs in the World Series; however, Ruth was infected a second time soon after the final game. Many historians attribute that series for starting the second, deadlier wave of the pandemic. After those games, five thousand people died of the flu in Boston. The NHL was in its second year, and the Montreal Canadiens met the Seattle Metropolitans in the Stanley Cup Finals. With the series tied 2-2, the Canadiens were forced to cancel after they were ravaged by an outbreak. Defenseman Joe Hall died only days after contracting the virus. The Metropolitans refused to accept a forfeit, and the champions’ spot on Lord Stanley’s cup remains blank for that year. The NFL did not yet exist, but the colleges tried to piece together a delayed and abbreviated football season with small mask wearing crowds in attendance. No
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national champion was crowned that year because so many teams canceled key games. It would have been impossible to determine the best team based on such schedules. Locally, both Waynesburg High School and College did not field football teams because of the war and the pandemic. Moreover, the high school had an abbreviated season the year before because of a quarantine due to an outbreak of infantile paralysis. There were no baseball games recorded in the county that spring or summer. How-ever, it appears the high school and college both participated in basketball. The high school’s season started in late January of 1919 and ended March 29. The Little Jackets (as they were called at the time) concluded their campaign by winning the Canonsburg Tournament after defeating Claysville, Crafton and Washington High Schools. The Yellow Jackets were coached by Professor Paul “Prexie” Stewart, who had been charged with bringing sports back to the college after the war. By the summer of 1919, the pandemic had subsided as people either succumbed or developed immunity to the virus. Few people remember the Asian Flu pandemic of 1957. That outbreak killed 2 million people worldwide, including over 75,000 Americans. The peak of the first wave in the U.S. hit the second week of October, not long after students had returned to school. The WPIAL canceled all football games that weekend. The season resumed the following week for most schools. While there are many opinions regarding the resumption of our normal lives in these historic times, there are no easy answers in a pandemic. It may help in some small way to look at the past and learn from our mistakes and successes.
The photo below is from Feb. 10, 1919, for Newspaper Enterprise Association (NEA). It shows the entire team masked during the Spanish Influenza epidemic. Members of the Standard Murphys squad posed before the first pitch wearing masks, which were mandatory throughout the game.
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G o in g G re e n e
H
A COLD NIGHT OF FISHING
unting and fishing tales are common in the library of past experience here in Greene County. Some of these narratives have withstood the tough test of time and been passed on through written form or word of mouth. This story was related to me many years ago, and involves three gentlemen: Hiram, James and Jesse. One chilly November in the early 1920s, Hiram, the leader of this little posse, got the idea that he and his friends should go on an adventure to hunt raccoon with their bluetick hounds down near White Covered Bridge. Coon and fox hunting was a favorite pastime of the men from the more rural parts of the county, and the bounty brought in by various types of hides was a source of income that could help these folks get through the tougher winter months. Well, Ole Hiram was fortunate enough in his circumstances to have an old Model T Ford stake-bed that he and his pals could use to haul around their hounds and get into trouble. Hiram loaded his hounds up in a crate in the back, gathered his friends, and with a big old chew of tobacco in his lip, set off a couple hours before dark, so they would arrive at the White Covered Bridge right after sunset. In those days, it took much longer to get from Ole Hiram’s farm in Pine Bank to White Covered Bridge near Garards Fort; those Model T’s just didn’t have the speed we’re used to now. James, the second oldest of the group and in his early 30s at the time, was the excitable one of the bunch. Hiram and Jesse were both veterans of the Great War and were of a more serious and sober stock, but the group complemented each other well. James spent the whole ride to the bridge talking of his plans for his hounds and the high times he hoped to have in the future. Hiram and Jesse both listened; they also looked forward to all of the adventures that awaited them. Coon hunting was and is a huge sport, with competitions and events; if these men could train their hounds well enough, there was a great chance that they could win some of these competitions, make a little money, and perhaps most importantly, make names for themselves. By now, you might be wondering how this coon huntin’ tale came under the guise of a fishing story. Well, we’ll get there very soon. Hiram, James and Jesse arrived at the bridge. Back then it wasn’t game lands like it is today; the area was a series of scattered farms beautifully situated along Whitely Creek. There were small patches of woods and larger stands on the ridgetops. James had his hound Suzie ready on the bed of that infamous Model T and was grooming her while Hiram and Jesse got ready. Jesse, the youngest and in his mid 20s was perhaps the most serious of the bunch. He didn’t have a hound with him that night, he had just come along to spend some quality time with his old pals and listen to the sweet song of a bunch of old bluetick hounds echoing through the hills as they chased a wily raccoon. Being the only one without a hound, Jesse was in charge of carrying the rifle. This rifle was something special. Hiram had just bought the brand-new Winchester Model 94 earlier that week and it was his pride and joy. Having a brand-new rifle in those days was a sign of status, and Ole Hiram with his Model T and new Winchester rifle was certainly one who had done quite well for himself.
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By Matthew Cumberledge
They cut their hounds loose along the banks of Whitely Creek not far from the covered bridge and as soon as the hounds got out of sight they heard a giant splash and the dogs singing the song signaling that they were on the trail! The men, being strict adherents of the philosophy of “work smarter not harder” deAn old photo showing Hiram, Jesse and James (the three in the center). cided to head after the dogs and cross Whitely had to remedy this situation rather quickly. He knew that he Creek on an old fallen log in lieu of turning around, crossing the bridge and would forever be at the mercy of his companions’ jokes if he couldn’t retrieve the rifle and restore it to its rightful owner. heading back up stream. Still laying on the log, he hatched a plan. Being at a slight They progressed on and James in his unbridled enthubend in the creek, he knew the water would be fairly deep siasm was calling every move of the hounds. “They’re running hard now, they’ll be getting treed real soon!” he cried out. where the rifle landed, so he couldn’t just reach in and get it, Before too long, a great song in soliloquy raised through the and being November, the water was far too cold for him to barren trees and echoed over the cold frosted hills and James jump in and scour the creek bed to find it. So Jesse stood up, looked at his friends, and exclaimed, with all the excitement of a young man stealing his first kiss “Watch and learn.” He found a big long stick, got back on the cried out, “They’re treed, they’re treed!” James started scurrying across the ancient log that log, and with his friends holding him by the legs, he leaned bridged the banks of Whitely Creek while Hiram and Jesse out over the water using his stick to drag the bottom hopwere a few paces behind watching as he made it to the far ing and praying that he could find the rifle. Eventually, he hit bank. Hiram followed after James, and Jesse trailed behind something solid. Now, Jesse forgot his stoic demeanor and yelled “I’ve got it, I’ve got it!” and carefully drug this solid making an effort to not show too much excitement. Jesse had a habit of being a bit too dignified and his hard mass closer and closer to the creek bank and into more shalefforts would often backfire, leaving him in a very humiliated low water. His efforts I am told, were carried out with near situation. Our dear friend Jesse made it across the log, and as surgical precision, and the instant he felt it was within reach, he was stepping onto the far bank, he very gracefully placed he plunged his hand into the water and, flooded with pride, he his right hand on a dead tree stump on the bank to help him pulled the now battle-tested Winchester rifle out of the cold up the remainder of the creek bank. This old tree stump had November water and recovered his dignity! His old pals were amazed - not a one thought he would seen its better days, and as he placed his weight on it, it fell apart, causing Jesse to lose his footing. Jesse fell and landed be able to fish that Winchester rifle out of the cold water on face first onto the very log over which he crossed the creek, that November night, and Jesse with his pride restored, led his and the rifle he was carrying in his left hand became airborne pals on to the tree, and they got themselves a coon. Many of the details of this story after the rescue of the and the new Winchester Rifle hit the water, and much like the Winchester have long been forgotten, but, as was said to me ill-fated Titanic, found itself sinking to the bottom of icy cold when I first heard this story, they didn’t matter much anyway. water. Jesse, no doubt, thought to himself about the pickle that The memories of Jesse falling and fishing that rifle out of the he had just gotten himself into while Hiram and James looked creek were remembered fondly by these men for the rest of upon his pathetic state. Jesse had managed to not fall into the their lives. I’ve heard it said many times, “It’s not where you cold water, but the new Winchester now seemed to be lost for- are going that matters, it’s all about how you get there,” and I think that is the way these gentlemen felt on this chilly Noever. Jesse, never being one to accept failure, knew that he vember night nearly a century ago. GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
SEPTEMBER 2020
• GreeneScene Community Magazine
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CFGC/West Greene Awarded Grant
CFGC Awards Scholarships The Community Foundation of Greene County recently announced the winners of the 2020 scholarships. The foundation distributed 38 scholarship awards totaling $132,500 to students throughout Greene County. American Legion and Sons of the American Legion Mt. Morris Post 992 Scholarship (2 awards of $2,000 each). The recipients are: Jacob Caldwell, Waynesburg Central High School; Myranda Rush, Waynesburg Central High School. Michelle Anderson Memorial Scholarship: (3 awards of $1,000 ). The recipients are: Gavin Scott, West Greene High School; Gage Gray, West Greene High School; Daniel Kennedy, West Greene High School. Victor and Anna Mae Wancheck Beghini Scholarship: (2 awards of $3,000 ). The recipients are: Makenzie Cree, formerly of Mapletown High School; Gabrielle Muilenburg, formerly of Mapletown High School. Jesse Benson Finnegan Scholarship: (1 award of $1). The recipient is: Mari Rose Bowden, Jefferson-Morgan High School. Army Specialist Gregory A. Cox Memorial Scholarship: (1 award of $2,000). The recipient is: Avery McConville, Waynesburg Central High School. Max Cunningham Memorial Scholarship: (1 award of $10,000 over four years). The recipient is: Daniel Kennedy, West Greene High School. Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship: (2 awards of $1,000). The recipients are: Avery McConville, Waynesburg Central High School; Kylie Sinn, Carmichaels Area High School. Dove Award Scholarship: (1 award of $3,000 over two years). The recipient is: Jessie Wei, Jefferson-Morgan High School. Enstrom Family Scholarship: (2 awards of $1,000). The recipients are: Mari Rose Bowden, Jefferson-Morgan High School; Caitlyn Dugan, Jefferson-Morgan High School. The EQT Scholarship: (5 awards of $1,000 each and one renewable award of $18,000 per year (up to $72,000) over four years). The recipients are: Hunter Guthrie, West Greene High School, won the $18,000 per year scholarship; Colton Anderson, West Greene High School; Avery McConville, Waynesburg Central High School; Colton Jud Meek, West Greene High School; Gavin Scott, West Greene High School; Brandon Tretinik,
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Waynesburg Central High School. Jack Dulaney Memorial Scholarship: (1 award of $4,000 over four years). The recipient is: Jessica Moore, Waynesburg Central High School. The Russell A. Guthrie Memorial Scholarship: (1 award of $500). The recipient is: Caitlyn Dugan, Jefferson-Morgan High School. William and Shirley Hanley Memorial Scholarship: (2 awards of $1,000). The recipients are: Kaitlyn Pratt, Carmichaels Area High School; Katelyn Wilson, Mapletown High School. Aaron Anthony Haywood Scholarship: (1 award of $1,000). The recipient is: Avery McConville, Waynesburg Central High School. Thelma S. Hoge Scholarship: (2 awards of $2,000). The recipients are: Gage Gray, West Greene High School; Daniel Kennedy, West Greene High School. Renardo A. Matteucci Family Scholarship: (2 awards of $1,000 each). The recipients are: Kambreigha Dudas, Jefferson-Morgan High School; Lilian Ladisic, Jefferson-Morgan High School. George L. Misher and Anne Misher Scholarship: (1 award of $2,000). The recipient is: Jessie Wei, Jefferson-Morgan High School. Evelyn Minor Scholarship: (2 awards in the amounts of $1,250 and $750). The recipients are: Christina Barnett (Valedictorian), Mapletown High School; Emilei Grim (Salutatorian), Mapletown High School. Gregory and Mary Lou Niverth Scholarship: (1 award of $1,000). The recipient is: Abigail Ozohonish, Jefferson-Morgan High School. Darlene Phillips Memorial Scholarship: (1 award of $1,500). The recipient is: Katelyn Wilson, Mapletown High School. Walter Samek II Memorial Scholarship: (1 award of $500). The recipient is: Matthew Kloska, Carmichaels Area High School. Robert Scott Scholarship: (1 award of $1,000). The recipient is: Myranda Rush, Waynesburg Central High School. Thelma J. Szarell Scholarship: (1 award of $1,000). The recipient is: Savannah Milliken, West Greene High School.
The Community Foundation of Greene County is pleased to announce that it has received a $50,000 grant from the EQT Foundation. In collaboration with the West Greene School District, these funds will outfit a STEAM Maker Space and Lab with cutting edge maker technology as part of the initiative to Reimagine the Future of Rural Education through STEAM. West Greene School District is currently engaged in a multifaceted approach to re-conceptualize what it means to be educated in a rural community in the 21st Century. As the world changes and expands, West Greene recognizes the increasing importance of preparing students for careers and postsecondary education, shifting the emphasis from content to skills. This plan includes upgrading facilities and updating the curriculum to highlight the interconnectedness of learning. According to Eric Gaydos, West Greene’s Academic Director, the receipt of this grant supports the larger goal for West Greene School District to “become a model throughout the region for innovative and successful
STEAM education by providing rigorous, meaningful learning and increased opportunities for students to compete in their chosen post-secondary pathways.” ”For students, developing the skills to be adaptive learners is key to future success,” said Ellen Rossi, President, EQT Foundation. “We applaud the West Greene School District for taking a forward-thinking approach to education by creating a space where children from across Greene County will experience learning in a new, hands-on way, which will develop them to be the innovative thinkers of tomorrow.” The Community Foundation of Greene County is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. The Foundation assists local organizations to effectively address community needs through grantmaking and leadership development. Bettie Stammerjohn, Executive Director, said that the Community Foundation is “excited and honored to partner alongside the EQT Foundation and West Greene School District to make their vision a reality.”
Garden Club Awards Scholarship Colton Meeks, a graduating senior of West Greene High School is the recipient of Town & Country Garden Club’s 2020 Scholarship. He has volunteered at local parks, fund raisers, military drives, and wildlife outreach, also participated in baseball, peer monitoring program, Envirothon, and other programs. Colton completed college courses from Westminster College on Environmental Inquiry. He is enrolled at California University of Pennsylvania, majoring in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology with an employment goal in Aquaponics/Environmental Conservation.
Student Wins 1st in State Poster Contest Payton Joy Duncan, a first-grade student from Clarksville, earned first place and a prize of $50 in the annual Poster Contest held by the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts (PACD). Earlier in the year, Payton took first place and won a $100 prize at the county-level competition held by the Greene County Conservation. Now her poster will be entered in a nation-wide contest held by the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) where she may win up to $200. The contest theme for this year was, “Where would we ‘BEE’ without pollinators?” and emphasized the role pollinators play in supporting healthy ecosystems and agriculture. These contests are a great opportunity for students to express their creativity while learning about the natural world and our
place within it. The Conservation District is very proud of Payton and wishes her the best of luck at the NACD contest. For more information on the NACD contest, visit http:// www.nacdnet.org/ generalresources/ stewardship-andeducationmaterials/ contests.
GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
SEPTEMBER 2020
• GreeneScene Community Magazine
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Domiciliary Care Providers Needed
Southwestern Area Agency on Aging is looking for individuals or families in your area to open up their homes to our consumers who are unable to live independently. Our consumers need care due to physical, intellectual, or age-related impairments. The Area Agency on Aging is looking for Domiciliary Care providers in the counties of Fayette, Greene, and Washington Counties. As a Domiciliary Care provider, you
will receive $1007.60 a month for each consumer residing in your home. A Dom Care provider’s responsibilities include: preparing meals, housekeeping, laundry, medication set up, scheduling, and providing transportation to medical appointments. Domiciliary Care homes can accommodate up to 3 consumers and must be certified by the Area Agency on Aging. FMI, contact 1-800-411-5655.
Career Development Recovery Program
Blueprints has received a grant to launch its Career Development Recovery Program, designed to provide employment support services to individuals in Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) recovery seeking to enter the workforce. Participants interested in the program will partner with a Career Coach who will help them determine employment goals, develop a resume, apply for jobs, practice interviewing skills, secure interview attire and coordinate transportation. Participants with criminal records will be linked to Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Services to explore any expungement opportunities.
Career Coaches will reach out to existing employment partners and establish new partnerships with employers to meet the recovery phase, skills and interests of participants. Currently, Blueprints has an established network of more than 100 area employers interested in hiring program participants. Participants will also be linked to Blueprints 35+ programs designed to provide whole families with the options needed to attain and maintain economic self-sufficiency. FMI, visit www.myblueprints.org, contact Blueprints at 877-814-0788 ext. 406 or at info@myblueprints.org.
Youth Fall Fishing Frenzy
For the first time, the Greene County Water Park will be home to a new breed of swimmer... rainbow, brook and golden trout. The Greene County Recreation Department will hold its inaugural youth Fall Fishing Frenzy. After the pool closes on Labor Day, the chemicals will be withheld in preparation for the event. The derby is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26 starting at 9am. The fish will arrive the day before and some will be tagged for prizes donated by local businesses and sportsmen’s clubs. Young anglers between the ages of 5 - 12 will try their hands at catching the 500 trout. People can register starting August 24 at the Department’s Fairgrounds Office or call 724-852-5323 for more information. The
cost for entry will be $15.00 a child. Space is limited due to CDC social distancing guidelines. Participants will need a working rod and reel with at least 50 feet of line, a hook, a bobber, and a cooler or creel for their catch. Rules for the day include no spinners and no catch and release.
Congratulations, Retirees!
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1st Annual Greene County Cup
The Country Club team claimed the first annual Greene County Cup. The group finished four strokes ahead of Rohanna’s Golf Course; Carmichaels Golf Club finished in third place. The first leg of the tournament was a nine-hole better-ball at Rohanna’s. Scotty Bedilion and Kevin Pincavitch carded a 29 for Rohanna’s, but the
Country Club led as a team by three strokes after the round. After the nine-hole scramble at the Country Club, the home team extended their lead to 10 strokes. Bedilion and Pincavitch were low team again with another 29. Rohanna’s won the third round of alternate shot and closed the gap to four strokes. Craig Conklin and Randell Trueblood of the County Club team were low men that round after firing a score of 35. The winners will house the Cup at their club for the next year. Team members were awarded County Champion hats and golf Front Row: Aaron Hill, Brian Shimek, Chris Haines, Craig towels. Lightning Energy Conklin, Charles Hamrick. Back Row: Randell True Blood, served as the primary John Garber, John Henry, Kellen Haines, Austin Shelestack, Kyle sponsor for the event. Clayton, Scott Moore
Afghan Donation Benefits Others
During the pandemic, Amedysis, Inc. received a heartfelt donation from a local community member in memory of his mother. Levi Craggs of Clarksville, PA provided approximately 125 afghans to Amedysis in memory of his 100-year-old mother, Martha Craggs. Martha was a patient of the Masontown, PA Albert Gallatin Amedisys home health and hospice. Levi donated the afghans to Amedysis because he wanted to ensure that everyone that cared for her over the past year of her life received one; he knew that was what she wanted. The afghans were shared with the employees, including nurses, home health aides, chaplain, social worker, volunteer coordinator, bereavement coordinator, managers, secretary, and more. Additional afghans were also donated to each personal care homes partnered with Amedysis in
Greene and Fayette counties, and others went to senior high rises in Greene County.
A selection of the donated afghans.
DERRICK TENNANT
2000 Dodge Dakota Clubcab SLT
Owner: Derrick Tennant, Carmichaels, PA The truck was bought new and belonged to Derrick’s grandfather, Albert Kingan. It was given to Derrick after his grandfather passed. His license plate means, “Riding with Pap.”
GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
First Federal of Greene County proudly announces its 2020 scholarship winners
Eight area students were recently selected by First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Greene County to receive four-year college scholarships. Each winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship renewable for a maximum of four years, or $4,000 total. Funding is made possible through the First Federal Scholarship Fund, which awards up to eight randomly selected eligible students each year. Eligible students must reside in Greene, Fayette or Washington counties; have been accepted full-time to an accredited educational facility; and maintain an Education Club savings account with minimum regular deposits. The Waynesburg and Uniontown offices each randomly draws up to four students every year. Congratulations and best wishes to all of this year’s winners!
Waynesburg
Uniontown
Pictured, from l. to r., are Charles W. Trump, Jr., First Federal President/CEO; scholarship recipient Claire Dursa, Carmichaels Area High School; Kim Lawless, First Federal Education Club Coordinator, Waynesburg; scholarship recipients Kenna Swauger, Carmichaels Area High School, Emma Mankey, Waynesburg Central High School, and Abigail Ozohonish, Jefferson-Morgan High School; and Terry L. Clutter, First Federal Vice President/Treasurer.
Claire Dursa
West Virginia University
Emma Mankey
John Carroll University
Abigail Ozohonish Waynesburg University
NMLS#458729
Kenna Swauger Carlow University
Serving Southwestern Pennsylvania since 1924 SEPTEMBER 2020
• GreeneScene Community Magazine
Pictured, from l. to r., are Danielle Tobusto, First Federal Assistant Secretary/ Assistant Treasurer; Corinna Ream, First Federal Education Club Coordinator, Uniontown; scholarship recipients Madison Duke, Laurel Highlands High School, Ashlyn Barcheck, Uniontown Area High School, Elizabeth Crouse, McGuffey High School, and Elisabeth Bockstoce, Wheeling Central Catholic High School; and Barb Galica, First Federal Vice President.
Ashlyn Barcheck Elisabeth Bockstoce Elizabeth Crouse
Saint Francis University
Duquesne University
California Univ. of Pa.
Madison Duke
California Univ. of Pa.
Open an Education Club Savings Account, and let your future dreams start adding up. Plus, you can qualify for this scholarship upon high school graduation! Current high school students can stop by our Waynesburg, Carmichaels or Mt. Morris branches to start saving today. For more information, including account rules and scholarship eligibility, visit
www.firstfederalofgreene.com
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AUG. CONTEST
WINNERS
SEGHI’S PACKAGE: Lana Henderson DEFENSE IN DEPTH: Ashley Fox COLORING CONTEST: Levi Crouse, Mason Titchenell, & Payton Duncan GREENESCENE CONTEST: Susan Kovach knew that the beautiful mosaic is located in Point Marion and can be seen from 119. The public art project was created in 2012 and placed in its current location along on Penn Street in early 2015.
Masontown, PA 724-583-2680 724-583-2685 amedisys.com
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M e e t our Te am
very month, our enthusiastic team of editors, writers, designers, and advertising specialists work behind the scenes to create each issue of GreeneScene Community Magazine. This passionate team is dedicated to creating a fascinating, optimistic, and relevant magazine that our readers love. Over the next year, we’ll be introducing you to our team, member by member, so that you can get to know the devoted crew that brings you the GreeneScene. This month, we’d like to introduce you to one of our contributors, Stephanie Lampe. Stephanie was born and raised in Greene County near Nineveh, PA. Her parents, Carl and Anne Bedilion, still live in her childhood home. Her brother Stephen, lives in Spraggs with wife Jennifer and sons Austen and Dillen. Stephanie currently resides in Rutan with her husband, John, and five children: twins Madison and McKenna (19), Katie (16), Johnny (14), and Emilie (6). Stephanie graduated from West Greene in 1994. She attended Geneva College where she got involved with theatre. She graduated in 1998 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications with minors in writing and theatre.
After college, she worked in a few different offices including the development department at Pittsburgh Public Theater, but decided to put her career on hold when she had her twin daughters. However, her desire to write remained so she was very excited to join GreeneScene Community Magazine. In addition to writing for the GreeneScene, she is the West Greene 7th/8th grade girls volleyball coach and serves as treasurer/ secretary of the West Greene Softball Boosters. Stephanie loves reading, writing, photography, and watching her kids play sports.
She also enjoys movies, theatre, camping, and traveling. She loves writing for the GreeneScene because she gets to meet so many great people from Greene County. In the future, she hopes to expand her writing career while still writing for GreeneScene and travel more.
JUST FOR FUN Favorite Music: 70s & 80s country, rock, pop, and alternative Favorite Movie: Lord of the Rings, Indiana Jones trilogy, Star Wars trilogy, Harry Potter series, Forrest Gump, Empire Records, Dazed & Confused, The Notebook Favorite TV Show: Friends, Supernatural, and Yellowstone Currently Reading: Summer of Night (Dan Simmons) Favorite Hidden PA Gem: Sarris Candies Favorite Vacation Spot: Outer Banks, NC Favorite Season: Autumn Movie I Can Quote: Billy Madison, Clueless, Christmas Vacation If you could live in any period of history when would it be? 1776 or Civil War era What’s your dream car? 1964 1/2 Ford Mustang convertible in red
GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
GREENE COUNTY IS COUNTING ON YOU! COMPLETE YOUR 2020 CENSUS NOW!
C
ompleting the 2020 Census is easy, safe and important. Once every decade, the federal government conducts a census of the entire population to count everyone in the United States and record basic information about them. Our nation’s founders believed these data were so important that they mandated the decennial census in the Constitution. Census Bureau employees take extraordinary measures to reach homes, like those in Greene County, that can be difficult to access in rural and remote areas, whether they are located at the top of a mountain or at the end of a mile-long gravel drive. Completing the 2020 Census is easy. In 2020, for the first time ever, the U.S. Census Bureau will accept responses online at 2020census.gov, by phone at 844-330-2020 or by mail, if the Census Bureau mailed you a questionnaire earlier this year. However, often, rural households do not have typical mailing addresses but use post office boxes in nearby towns. The Census Bureau does not mail to P.O. boxes. Instead, census takers deliver paper questionnaires to each home in such areas, along with information about options to respond by phone or online, and confirm/record the physical location of the home. In-person follow-ups will be made if no response is received. Completing the 2020 Census is safe. Strict federal law protects census responses. It is against the law for any Census Bureau employee to disclose or publish any census information that identifies an individual or business. Census Bureau employees take a lifelong pledge of confidentiality to handle data responsibly and keep respondents’ information private. The penalty for wrongful disclosure is a fine of up to $250,000 or imprisonment for up to 5 years or both. No law enforcement agency (not the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and
SEPTEMBER 2020
• GreeneScene Community Magazine
Customs Enforcement, Federal Bureau of Investigation, or any other agency) can access or use your personal information at any time. Data collected can only be used for statistical purposes that help inform important decisions, including how much federal funding your community receives. Also, the Census Bureau will never ask for a Social Security number, bank or credit card account number, money or donations, or anything on behalf of a political party. The Census Bureau’s robust cybersecurity program incorporates industry best practices and federal security standards for encrypting data. Completing the 2020 Census is important. Census data is used to make decisions annually about the distribution of more than $675 billion in federal funds, grants, and support to states, counties, and communities. That money is spent on schools, hospitals, roads, public works, and other vital programs. There are several programs specifically geared toward rural growth that use Census data, according to the Census Bureau working paper, “Uses of Census Data in Federal Funds Distribution” and many general programs that focus on rural subsets, like Rural Education and the Department of Justice’s Rural Domestic Violence Assistance programs. Other important programs informed by Census statistics include Water and Waste Disposal Systems for Rural Communities, Rural Business Development Grants, and Rural Housing Preservation Grants. Greene County is counting on YOU! Shape our county’s future today. Respond to the 2020 Census now at 2020census.gov or 844330-2020.
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GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
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Maleena & Chad Coffman
aleena and her husband, Chad, have been married for 6 years and she shares, “If I was more superstitious, I would believe our marriage was cursed from the beginning. We decided to keep our wedding private and go to the courthouse because we had known too many weddings to lose sight of the real love and importance of the event, and because we liked the idea of having our special moment without anyone knowing until after. Although our wedding was simple and quick, it was a day full of unexpected events for an already anxious bride.” Maleena Gumo and Chad Coffman still lived far apart so they agreed to get married in Waynesburg where they would end up living. As she was loading her gown and shoes into Chad’s vehicle, Chad believed Maleena was in the car already and drove off, leaving her standing at the gas station! Luckily, he noticed she was missing and returned; he blamed his nerves. As he later exited the vehicle, Maleena got the full image of what Chad decided to wear: a suit from when he was 16 years old, complete with pants that are 3 inches too short and athletic ankle socks. “He kept trying to walk straightlegged without bending his knees so I wouldn’t notice the pants inching higher and exposing his bare ankles,” she shares. Once in the building, Maleena let the lady at the desk know about their appointment, that they had filed all the paperwork, and had called to verify their appointment earlier that morning. Like a scene from a sci-fi movie, she picked up the phone for emphasis and said, “You can’t have called…our phones have been out all morning.” However, she helpfully sent them to another nearby location. “As we walk down the street,
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me in my “over-the-top for walking down a sidewalk” white gown, my husband in his “waiting for the creek to rise” pants, and our faithful witness, we enjoyed one of the best moments of our day as cars honked and people cheered. They were as excited for us as we were for what we were about to do. Moments later, my husband and I stand arm in arm, exchange vows and rings, and end the ceremony with a quick kiss. Only a split second later do we have the full realization that we are finally and surreally married, we share a loving, wedded kiss.” Many of Maleena’s favorite memories of the day would not have been as sweet if it weren’t for the kindness of others. Weeks before, Chad bought her dress for her, her mom had prepared a cake and decorations for that evening, and the excitement of the strangers honking car horns and cheering through town made their wedding day more special than any other way they could have planned.
Weddings • GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
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• GreeneScene Community Magazine • Weddings
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I
Love in the Time of Coronavirus
t’s the day that many people think about, plan for, and dream about since youth. Their wedding. Some have elaborate plans and others go simpler, but for many it is one of the most important days of their lives. With the closures and constraints due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many brides-to-be were left with a decision they dreaded – to cancel, postpone, or continue with their wedding under the new restrictions. Brides getting married early in the pandemic struggled and sacrificed their wedding plans – many because they had no alternative. Everything was closed and there was little choice in their decision. Those getting married later had hope – that the pandemic would be on its way out, that things would be more open, and restrictions would be gone – or at least less limiting. But as time has passed, restrictions have again been placed on gatherings and those with fall and winter 2020 weddings were faced with the same decision as the spring and summer brides. With indoor gatherings limited to 25 people, outdoor to 250, restaurants at 25% capacity and many venues still unable to open or host weddings, these future brides have had to change their plans. Some have opted to change the date until next year and others have made accommodations so that they can have their weddings on the expected date. Michelle Frye and her fiancé of two years, Zack Zeigler, have planned for an October 10, 2020 wedding since their engagement in September 2018. While the pandemic has changed the scope of their wedding, they still plan to be married on that date. Originally a wedding set for 325 people with the ceremony at the Waynesburg University chapel and reception to follow at the Carmichaels Fire Hall, it has dropped down to a guest list of 15 to 20 people, consisting of just immediate family. The ceremony and reception have also both been changed, and they will now get married at the Waynesburg Bible Chapel with a small reception at the former Carmichaels Grange. “I had hoped that we’d be able to continue with the wedding that we had planned, but we just can’t,” says Michelle. “I had my bridal shower in July after new restrictions were announced and the attendance at that – only 14 of the 95 invited attended – showed that people are still concerned about going to events.” Michelle was forced to make other changes to accommodate her new wedding size. She contacted the baker and arranged to have smaller wedding cake and cookie orders, cancel her DJ and photographer and arrange for a friend to help with the music for the shorter reception, and cancel flight plans for out-of-town relatives. She also downsized the bridal party to include just one bridesmaid, Zack’s sister. Her main concern when making their new plans was the safety of the couple’s friends and family. “I didn’t want to put the ones I cared about at risk,” she shares.
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“I was lucky because I’m getting most of my money back,” Michelle discloses. “Most of my vendors were willing to downsize the orders and give me the difference back if I already paid them. The only one we had an issue with was the plane tickets and they gave us a credit we can use over the next year. Hopefully we can!” Michelle and Zack’s honeymoon plans are still up in the air. They originally planned to go to Disney Land in California for their honeymoon, but as of right now, Disney Land still remains closed. If they don’t open before the beginning of October, they’ll receive a refund for the honeymoon plan, but if Disney Land reopens, they’ll have to go or lose the entire cost of their Disney package. “It’s always been my dream to spend my honeymoon at Disney and get a newlywed picture in front of the castle, souvenir ears with veil and all,” Michelle says wistfully. “But I’m not sure that we’ll get to have that this year. If we don’t, we’ll probably get a cabin in the Smoky Mountains and be hermits for a week!” There are some bright sides to the situation, though. The money that Michelle and Zack received back from cancellations will go towards a down payment for a new home in Masontown. The ceremony will remain formal and next year the couple will do a vow renewal ceremony closer to the original plans for their wedding, so Michelle will get to wear her wedding gown twice and utilize her decorations and plans already in place. Michelle’s advice for others in the same situation is too look for productive ways to cope with the stress. “It helps a lot to find a productive way to cope with the stress when it feels like everything is falling apart,” she shares. “For those in the same situation, you’ll also need to find other ways to include your family. We’re doing a private streaming link for those that can’t attend.” “You’ve got to look at other options, “she adds. “Look at choices other than your top choices. And support local businesses and artists for your cakes, flowers, dresses, and everything. Have your guests stay at local hotels and bed and breakfasts. The local businesses are more likely to work with you on changes and they need the support, also.” “It’s a bad situation out there for everyone. People are getting sick and dying,” Michelle shares. “And although some would say that it’s just your wedding and it could be much worse, I think we have a right to be upset and sad over everything. You imagine your wedding forever and it won’t be the same. But we all have to make the most of what we can. You might be able to have exactly what you want, but you can still be with the person that you love.”
Michelle and her cousin Amy Rankin at Michelle’s bridal shower. Amy is one of Michelle’s bridesmaids that will no longer be able to attend her wedding. Weddings • GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
My wedding is scheduled this year - what can I do?
S
o you planned on having your wedding this year, but plans need to change. Don’t worry - we’ve got a list of ideas and guidelines to help you get through it. Don’t cancel - postpone! Don’t cancel your wedding just yet - it might be a better solution to postpone it. In general, postponing your wedding could save you money. By rescheduling with the same vendors, you’ll probably avoid cancellation fees (but you might pay a smaller rescheduling fee). The biggest and most important step in this process is to read your contracts. The sooner you read these - or contact your wedding planner and/or vendors, the better. And you’ll need to decide on a new date quickly! Dates are being snatched quickly due the many cancellations that the Coronavirus has caused. Be prepared for extra fees. Most insurances and contracts don’t include conditions relating to pandemics or endemics. Many vendors will be willing to work with you, but some may have non-refundable
fees. And if you wait too late to postpone, those fees may get higher. Keep guests informed. Make sure that all your guests are informed of what is happening with your wedding. When making the decision to continue on, postpone, or cancel, consider what will also work for your guests. Longdistance guests will have travel plans that need to be considered, so don’t wait to make a decision until the last minute and cause your guests to incur extra fees or penalties. If you’ve decided to postpone, share this information with guests. Create a change of date card and mail it to your guest list. To keep everyone in the loop and up-to-date, consider creating a wedding website. This will allow you to keep guests informed of any changes that you may make as your plans evolve. Change your plans. If you still want to have your wedding this year, you’ll probably need to make
some changes. If the venue you had chosen won’t accommodate your guests, there a few options you can consider. • Limit your guest list. • Move the wedding and reception outside. • Change venues. • Keep the ceremony but postpone the reception. To keep your guests healthy and safe, follow CDC guidelines and practice extra hygiene. Continue to stay informed about your state’s rules and regulations, as these often change quickly. If your wedding continues on as planned, expect a small guest count than anticipated. Many guests may be afraid to travel or their states may have restrictions on travel. Consider livestreaming your wedding for those that cannot attend for whatever reason. But most of all - be flexible! Changes happen often during pandemics and what may be good today. Even if you don’t intend to postpone your wedding, it might need to happen. You might need to change vendors and venues, or do something different than you intended.
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• GreeneScene Community Magazine • Weddings
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Gather ‘Round for the Babushka Dance!
T
he Bridal Babushka Dance – also known as the Apron Dance, Money Dance or Dollar Dance – is an old Slavic custom brought over to Pennsylvania along with the many Slavic immigrants that made their way through the state. The dance can be considered in bad taste depending on location, culture, and family history – for many, it isn’t considered part of a traditional wedding; some even consider it as just another way of asking for cash. But in areas such as southwestern Pennsylvania, it’s a deeply traditional dance that is firmly rooted in our culture. The dance takes place at the wedding reception sometime after the first dance and
is always a cheerful, celebratory festivity. The bride and her mother move to the center of the dance floor, where the mother removes the brides’ veil and replaces it with a babushka, signifying that the girl is now a woman. The veil is given to maid of honor; sometimes an apron is also placed on the bride or maid of honor. The mother enjoys a dance with the bride, and other guests line up to pay and dance with the bride. As guests finish dancing, they form a large, festive circle around the bride. After the bride’s father dances with her, the groom breaks into the circle to ‘collect’ his bride. Other alternatives to the dance include pinning the money on the bride’s dress or
The guests gather around the bride as they finish dancing a form a festive circle. (Submitted by Jennifer Holleran Nusser.)
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tossing it in the air around the bride or couple. Changes can also include the father of the bride or best man paying for the first dance, the bride wearing the apron to collect money, giving the money to the best man for safekeeping, or placing the money in the bride’s removed shoes. Variations of the dance can be found in multiple cultures around the world – in Greece it is part of the dance called the “kalamatiano.” In Nigeria, it is referred to as the “money spray.” Sometimes during the money dance, female guest will also pay to dance with the groom. If you’re feeling unsure about including a babushka or dollar dance at your own wed-
Guests often wave handkerchiefs as they encircle the bride. (Submitted by Ashley Cubic.)
ding, consider what your family and friends may expect- as well as your partner’s family and friends. Use your best judgement to include, modify, or skip the dance to fit your wedding. If you plan to include the dance but are unsure if all your guests understand the tradition, explain the significance of the dance through your DJ, band leader, or a sign exploring the tradition. If you still love the idea of the bridal dance, but feel uncomfortable asking for money, invite guests to shower you on the dance floor with flowers, slips of paper with well wishes written on them, or fake money.
The bridal circle is often created with a ring of chairs. The maid of honor stands to one side with the special bag to collect the money. (Submitted By Melinda Cecil.)
Weddings • GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
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Michelle Frye & Zack Zeigler
ack Zeigler and Michelle Frye have known each other for more than 5 years, after meeting at Waynesburg University. They were engaged in Sept. 2018. Michelle has been a hyper fan of the band Fall Out Boy for years and when she found out that they were coming to Pittsburgh as part of their new tour, she was determined to see them for the third time – but to have a much better experience than ever before. She quickly secured two VIP front row tickets to the September concert.
SEPTEMBER 2020 SEPTEMBER 2020
Jokingly that summer, she asked if Zack was going to propose to her at the concert and he responded, “Did your mom tell you?” So now Michelle knew that he was going to propose but had no idea on the details. The day of the concert, Michelle and Zack traveled to Pittsburgh and spent two hours before the concert in the VIP lounge and then headed to their seats for the concert. During the song “Immortals” Zack tapped her on the shoulder and when she turned around, he was down on one knee to propose. Of course, Michelle said yes. Zack proposed using a ring created from one of Michelle’s grandmother’s diamonds and set in a custom setting with emeralds. Michelle says, “It was exactly what I always wanted and one of, if not THE best, moments of my life!”
Donnis & Carl Hoy
O
n June 5, 2020 Carl and Donnis Hoy celebrated their 74th wedding anniversary. Carl (95) and Donnis (93) met while attending high school in Waynesburg. Carl served in World War II during his senior year of high school. Donnis waited for his return and they were married by a pastor in Rogersville once he came home. T h e y have a son Jerry Hoy (Dozy) of Eatonton, GA; he has two children, Amy and Jason. Their daughter Phyllis Kamerer (the late Rick) of Waynesburg; Phyllis has two children Brandon and Wesley Kamerer and one grandson, Atley Jay Kamerer.
• GreeneScene Community Magazine • Weddings
Misty & Jesse Stottlemire
M
isty Rizor and Jesse Stottlemire decided to have their wedding in scenic western Greene County. They had a small ceremony and reception at Misty’s brother’s house on Ned Ridge in New Freeport on October 6, 2018.
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The Right Place for the Right Time
The Greene County Historical Society Museum
The Carmichaels Covered Bridge
The Mason-Dixon Historical Park
View of the Monongahela River along the Greene River Trail
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GREENE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM. WAYNESBURG, PA The grounds of the Greene County Historical Society Museum offer not only the perfect place to have your wedding in a historic building, barn, near the creek below, or elsewhere among the wooded lot, they also offer multiple scenic backgrounds for photos, as well as a large historic barn for receptions. GREENE COUNTY ACADEMY OF ART & CARMICHAELS COVERED BRIDGE, CARMICHAELS, PA The Greene Academy is a historic stone-and-brick building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Various events are held at the Academy throughout the year. Nearby, the picturesque Carmichaels Covered Bridge serves as a perfect backdrop for photographs. MASON-DIXON HISTORICAL PARK, CORE,WV The 295-acre Mason-Dixon Historical Park is the perfect place to have everything for your wedding in one location, as well as the opportunity to get married in Pennsylvania or West Virginia – or both! The park is home to both National Historic Landmark and National Civil Engineering Landmark in Brown’s Hill, where Mason and Dixon ended their survey. The Mason-Dixon line runs through the park and offers the unique opportunity to be married in either Pennsylvania or West Virginia. The park also offers facilities to rent for your reception and even has a cabin to rent, if you’d like to start your honeymoon locally. There are plenty of nearby photo opportunities, including the Mason-Dixon Line Marker, a fairy trail, and a beautiful bridge crossing the adjacent Dunkard Creek. GREENE RIVER TRAIL & PUMPKIN RUN PARK, RICES LANDING, PA The Greene River Trail meanders through the historic town of Rices Landing, and runs adjacent to the Monongahela River, offering many beautiful backdrops for an outdoor wedding. Along the trail are several openings that capture both the river and the woods, and nearby in Min Love Park, a gazebo overlooks the Mon. The neighboring Pumpkin Run Park also offers a beautiful wooded setting perfect for a ceremony or pictures, as well as pavilions for an outdoor reception. The historic W.A. Young Foundry and Machine Shop is also located nearby, as well as the firehall on top of the hill for indoor receptions. WHITE COVERED BRIDGE, GARARDS FORT, PA This historic, 100-year old, covered bridge is on the National Register of Historic Places and the main feature for the
The White Covered Bridge
annual White Covered Bridge Festival. The 66.5-foot-long bridge crosses over Whitely Creek is nestled in the State Game Lands. During any season, the white-painted covered bridge is picturesque backdrop for ceremonies and photographs. Greene County is also home to 6 other covered bridges that are equally striking and could make for beautiful locations. FRIENDSHIP HILL, POINT MARION, PA Friendship Hill, a national Historic Site and once the home of Albert Gallatin, offers many scenic backdrops for wedding photos and maintains an area west of the main parking lot dedicated for private rentals like weddings. The area includes a pavilion. RYERSON STATION STATE PARK, GRAYSVILLE, PA Pennsylvania State Parks offer a range of facilities and services for wedding ceremonies. These parks, Like Ryerson, provide incredible backdrops for one-of-a kind scenic services. Ryerson Station State Park facilities include the McNay Ridge Organized Group Camp, Outdoor Chapel, an amphitheater, and pavilions. They also offer cottages for those that would like to have their honeymoon locally. GREENSBORO LOG CABIN, GREENSBORO, PA Greensboro, an historic town located along the Monongahela River, is home to multiple locations suitable for a wedding and reception. A enchanting log cabin situated nearby to the river, a giant shard of Greensboro’s famous pottery, and a river front gazebo, all offer scenic backdrops for your wedding and wedding photos. The town also has a fire hall, Mon View Park, and other buildings that could be used to hold a reception. WARRIOR TRAIL, GREENE COUNTY, PA The Warrior trail rambles through much of Greene County’s bucolic beauty and offers places for a scenic Greene County wedding. One thing to note is that much of the trail falls on private land and permission would be needed to have a wedding there. JACKTOWN FAIRGROUNDS, WIND RIDGE, PA The historic and charming Jacktown Fairgrounds offers a variety of facilities to accommodate both your wedding and reception, no matter the size of your wedding. The first Jacktown fair, held in 1866, started it all, leading to one of the oldest fairs in the country and the longest continuously running fair in Pennsylvania. GREENE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, WAYNESBURG, PA The Greene County Fairgrounds offers the charm of getting married on the fairgrounds with the added convenience
Friendship Hill
Weddings • GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
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CASHLANDPAWNSHOP.COM any size – from small to large. The variety of buildings can be reserved for private events and the track, wooded drives, and double bridge offer plenty of backgrounds for photographs. GREENE COUNTY WATER PARK, WAYNESBURG, PA Looking for a unique wedding? How about the Greene County Water park in Waynesburg? Having your wedding at a water park/pool is a fun, casual wedding idea and your guests will really appreciate being able to jump in some cool water after a hot, summer day. Greene County Water Park also offers facilities and the nearby Lions Club Park offers facilities to rent. Other pools with nearby facilities include Carmichaels Pool and Mon View Park. MON VIEW ROLLER RINK, GREENSBORO, PA Looking for another unique wedding setting? Then consider getting married in Greene County’s only remaining roller rink. A roller-rink wedding is the perfect way to embrace
your fun side (and those neon 1980s) and the reception that follows is sure to have guests rock-n-rolling. Mon View also has pavilions if the roller rink is quite big enough for your entire ceremony/reception. ENLOW FORK NATURAL AREA, GREENE COUNTY, PA The beautiful scenic trail follows a closed dirt road with two iron-bridges along the Enlow Fork of Wheeling Creek. The area is known for its abundant avian life and beautiful wildflowers; many different species of wildflowers can be found here along some of the best river bottom forest in the Allegheny low plateau. An annual Wildflower Walk is held here each spring. The trail is part of State Game Lands 302. These locations are suggestions, and some may be on restricted grounds. If interested in having a wedding in one of these locations, make sure to research your chosen location and contact those in charge, receive approval from owners
Ryerson Station State Park
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• GreeneScene Community Magazine • Weddings
The log cabin and pottery shard in Greensboro
of private land, and complete necessary paperwork for any needed permits or permissions.
The Greene County Water Park
The Jacktown Fairgrounds
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Choosing the Perfect Colors for your Wedding Choose a base color. Your base color will be the most prominent of your wedding and you will need to choose this color to decide your full color palette. This should be a color that you love and that speaks to you. Once you have this color, you can begin choosing your accent colors – about two or three. If you’re unsure what colors should work as accents, consult a color wheel. Consider complementary colors and pair a cool and warm from opposite ends of the color wheel or choose colors that are beside each other. If you’re focused on what color and can’t decide on a complementary color, consider using tints or shades of the same color for an ombre effect. Consider your wedding season or nearby holidays. Your wedding color scheme
can be inspired by the time of the year that you choose to get married. Certain colors work with certain seasons naturally; dark, rich jewel tones tend to work better in colder months, bright, bold colors reflect more of a summertime feel, and pastel hues bring to mind spring. But these rules aren’t written in stone so don’t feel that you have to choose colors that reflect the season. Consider your venue and setting. Get inspired by your surroundings while considering colors. If your venue is a blank slate, your wedding colors can be almost any color and work well. But if your wedding is in a venue that is already decorated, consider choosing colors that will work with what is currently in the space. Determine the wedding style or theme.
Your color can set the mood and tone of your wedding just by choosing certain colors. If you have a certain style in mind, consider the colors associated with that theme. What atmosphere do Popular Colors for 2020 and 2021 include: you want your wedding to have and • Golden Yellow, Navy Blue, & Gray what colors put you in that mindset? • Pale Pink, Pale Blue & Mauve Pick colors that flatter you (and • Deep Green, White & Gold your party). It’s not selfish to consider • Mint Green, Peach, & Watermelon Pink colors based on what flatters you – af• Blue, Pale Pink & Coral Pink ter all, it’s your big day and whether you • Rose, Burgundy, & a Neutral will be wearing the color or not, you’ll • Plum, Gray, & Dusty Rose be near your bridal party and decora• Burnt Orange, Cream, & Moss Green tions constantly throughout the event. • Blue, Cranberry, & Pink If the color is unflattering, toss it out • White, Gray, & Pale Blue and look for alternatives. You can also • Deep Green, White, & Deep Red consider your bridal party and what • Black, White, & shades of Gold will be flattering for them – universally • All White (or shades of white) flattering colors • Lilac, Pink, & Pale Yellow will make every• Blue, Champagne, & Mauve body look their • Pale Blue, Navy, & White best. • Deep Green, Chocolate, & Pink Keep your Red, Blue, & White variations (deeper colpriorities in ors, pastels, creams all work well together and can mind. Different reflect different moods. Other classic color compriorities can afbinations include black & white, red & pink, any fect your color color & white, and yellow & orange. palette – venue, flowers, particular Research but don’t overthink your dedecorations can all play a part. If there’s cision! Look at magazines, other weddings, something in your wed- and color trends for inspiration for your own ding that is a must – like wedding colors. Don’t choose something a certain type and color that’s popular just because it’s trendy, but of flower, an heirloom looking at recent trending colors may give decoration, or the venue you inspiration or show your favorite colof your dreams, make ors in a new way. While you may get asked sure your colors reflect about your colors early in your planning prothat from the start or cess, don’t let other’s questions pressure you you’ll be looking at how into making a decision. And remember that while the color palette will decide many of to work those items in From traditional later and they may get your other wedding decisions, your weddings to elegant . . perfectly . have to be matched and coloverwhelmed or look doesn’t or-coded have style and beauty. any to size occasion, out of place.
Wedding Color Trends
2020/2021
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Choosing a Flower with Meaning • Anemone: Anemone flowers represent expectation, good luck and protection against evil. They’re unscented, primarily in season during the spring and late fall. • Baby’s Breath: Baby’s breath symbolize innocence—and they’re majorly back in style as of late. They’re fairly inexpensive and in season year-round. • Calla Lily: Calla lilies represent “magnificent beauty,” and are perfect and in season for spring and summer weddings. • Carnation: Each color symbolizes something different. Pink represents boldness, red symbolizes love, and white indicates talent. They’re also inexpensive and in season year-round. • Chrysanthemum: Wealth, abundance and truth are just a few of the words associated with the cost-efficient chrysanthemum. • Cornflower: Cornflowers indicate prosperity and friendship—two things everyone hopes to follow after their wedding day. They’re most associated with a gorgeous blue hue, but they’re available in white and pink as well. • Daffodil: The bright, springy daffodil represents happiness and kind regards. Spring brides, take note: They’re inexpensive when they’re in season. • Dahlia: The dahlia is a symbol of a commitment and bond that lasts forever. The bold, bushy flower is elegant for summer or early fall weddings. • Daisy: Casual daisies mean to “share one’s feelings,” so go ahead and arrange them around the altar for when you read your vows. • Delphinium: Lightly fragrant delphiniums represent swiftness and lightness, and are beloved (and in season) for summer weddings. • Freesia: Freesias have a fresh, fruity scent and represent “innocence.” Avoid using them as centerpieces due to their strong smell. • Gardenia: Gorgeous gardenias represent purity and joy. Fun fact: The gardenia scent is intoxicating. • Hydrangea: Moderately priced, colorful hydrangeas represent both understanding and “heartfelt emotions.” • Iris: Irises—which typically come in blue, purple or white—symbolize faith and wisdom, and have been strongly admired throughout history. • Lilac: The meaning behind lilacs? “Love’s first emotions.” Local lilacs are avail-
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• GreeneScene Community Magazine • Weddings
• •
• • • • •
•
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able in the spring, and imported French lilacs are available year-round. Lily: The lily represents majesty, truth and honor. The fragrant flower is perfect (and in season) for summer weddings. Lily of the Valley: Lily of the valley have a fresh, happy scent and they symbolize happiness. They’re also considered to be traditional marriage flowers. Magnolia: Magnolias represent “love of nature” and are available mostly anywhere during the spring and summer seasons. Orchid: Orchids are a symbol of beauty (and love, refinement, fertility and so on) and come in a variety of colors and sizes. Peony: Peonies stand for love, happiness and ambition. They’re in season during late spring. Rose: Roses are a symbol of romance, love and beauty, are surprisingly affordable and are available year-round. Stephanotis: The name stephanotis literally means “marital happiness,” making this star-shaped, fragrant flower an obvious choice for weddings. Sunflower: Sunflowers mean adoration and loyalty. Both the colors and the symbolism make them perfect additions to a rustic summer wedding. Sweet Pea: An old-fashioned favorite, sweet peas represent “pleasure” and are fairly fragrant. Use them for a late spring or early summer (that’s when they’re in season) garden wedding. Tulip: The ever-popular, stately tulip indicates love and passion. They can be found in a myriad of colors, but typically in pastel hues. Zinnia: Affordable zinnias symbolize lasting affection, daily remembrance and also “thoughts of friends.” Courtesy of The Knot
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GreeneScene by Missy Ziots
F
Candy & Fuzz Hoskins
uzz and Candy Hoskins may have a true Greene County story. On August 7, 1979 at the Greene County Fair, Candy Zollars and her friend Lucinda were walking the midway when Fuzz and his friend Tom (Juice) walked right up to them and Fuzz said to Candy, “Where have you been? I’ve been looking for you all night.” “I was almost seventeen at the time and thought that was the most romantic thing I had ever heard,” Candy shares. “I fell for it, hook, line and sinker. This year will be 41 years since that muggy August night.” Six years later on June 22, 1985, Fuzz and Candy were married at the Washington Street Methodist Church; she wore her mother’s wedding gown. Thirty years before, in 1955, Candy’s parents were married in the same church. In true Greene County style, the reception was held upstairs at the Moose lodge. The women of the Moose prepared a great meal and then everyone danced and were enter-
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tained by DJs Terry Tanner and Bill Winters. The couple honeymooned at Virginia Beach. “Fuzz and I have two daughters, Kristy and her husband Rob Herlihy, Kaitlyn and her husband Tyler Kieffer. Last year in August, our sweet granddaughter Kinsley Sue Kieffer was born on my birthday. Fuzz and I both lost siblings last year, his best friend and twin Rod and my sweet sister Tammy. I believe God knew we needed some light in our lives, and that light is our sweet red headed granddaughter.”
Weddings • GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
GET TO KNOW Print Shop
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lanning a wedding is one of the most stressful times of a person’s life. Organizing what is of-ten considered the biggest day of your life is a huge undertaking, with many small and large details to work out. Event location, photographers, catering – with so many big details, the smaller, but just as important, details are often overlooked. Like invitations. Direct Results is delighted to be able to say, “Yes! We can do it,” and alleviate some of that pre-wedding stress. Often to trim cost, people decide the invitations are where to save money; they elect to send electronic invitations or cheap printable invitations from the internet. Professionally designed and printed invitations are a key part of YOUR wedding - they set a tone, create excitement, reflect the couple, inform the guests, and are often a collected keepsake. Wedding stationary is the very first impression guests have of your wedding; it both excites and informs. The right invitation builds anticipation and reflects the theme of your wedding, as well as yourself. It also provides all the pertinent information guests need to make stress-free decisions about travel, eating requirements, or other factors that need to be considered in advance. In addition to wedding invitations, other
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stationary such as reply cards, save the date cards, thank you cards, place cards, and more are often needed. By ordering everything through one company dedicated to serving you, you’ll save time and receive items perfectly tailored to you and your wedding. The Direct Results team is ready to create your dream wedding stationary. Our awardwinning designers will create enchanting invitations from your ideas, and our print shop, operated by office manager Vicky Hughes, will see them produced in time for your deadlines. Our print shop has been recently updated with new state-of-the-art production level Canon digital printers, folders, cutters and more. With fast turn-
• GreeneScene Community Magazine • Weddings
around times and superior customer service we can help make your event perfect. Direct Results can also help you with other aspects of your wedding, thanks to our 10,000+ square feet of awesomeness. We can assist you with signage, customized wedding favors, en-graving, and even screen-printed and embroidered apparel for your guests or wedding party. Preparing for a wedding is a lot of planning and work – let Direct Results remove some of that stress. Give us a call at 724-627-2040 to talk about your printing needs.
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Pam Snyder
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hen COVID-19 hit and Harrisburg and Washington failed us, Pam Snyder stepped up and secured $50 million in grants for local small businesses and funding for our volunteer firefighters. • Pam knows that small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. When closures started to shutter many small businesses in our district, Pam took action – sponsoring a bill to provide $50M in grants to local small businesses and pushing the Governor to safely re-open.
• Pam told Governor Wolf he was wrong. Pam voted to override Governor Wolf ’s veto of a bill that would have allowed businesses to get back to work. (1) • Pam knows that the health and safety of our families comes first, and that we need to protect those who are putting their lives on the line during this pandemic. That’s why Pam voted to direct $50M in state funds towards vital medical equipment and supplies for volunteer firefighters and first responders. • When coal mining in our district was shut down due to COVID-19, she worked with our state government and industry officials to declare coal an essential business, saving thousands of jobs and ensuring our electric grid remained stable. • Pam and her office resolved nearly 2,000 unemployment issues in HD-50 in her district where the pandemic wreaked havoc on our jobs. Pam Snyder works hard for her district. We need her voice in Harrisburg to represent the 50th District and our values. Vote for Pam Snyder on November 3, 2020. https://www.pennlive.com/news/2020/05/pa-house-fails-to-override-gov-wolfs-veto-of-bill-allowing-more-businesses-to-operate.html
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Lesako’s Funeral Home
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he Paul M. Lesako Funeral Home has been serving our community for over 100 years. During these demanding economic times, they continue to provide their services at affordable prices. The original philosophy of the funeral home was “to offer the best services…at a price families can afford” and this tradition continues to this day. The funeral home offers three different types of services: cremation, burial or a green burial. According to a recent article by the New York Times, 72% of cemeteries are reporting an increase in demand for green burials. A green burial does not involve embalming. A green burial is environmentally friendly and can also lower the cost of funeral services. Paul M. Lesako Funeral Home has put together a new package called the Traditional Burial Package. The package includes: two-day visitation, filling of all insurance claims, sealed casket, Cadillac Hearse rental, and concrete, top seal vault. As the funeral home continues to offer its quality services to the community, it has also made any needed adjust-
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ments for safety in the times of COVID-19. Extra cleaning is completed regularly. Masks are worn by staff and those attending services. The service size is limited to 25 people and keeping a safe distance is suggested. Paul M. Lesako Funeral home is an active member of the Carmichaels Chamber of Commerce, the Pennsylvania Funeral Directors Association and The Western Pennsylvania Better Business Bureau. They are located at 204 Dowlin Ave Carmichaels, PA 15320. More information can be found at www. lesakofuneralhomeinc.com or by calling (724) 966-5100.
Business Section • GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
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Southwestern Pennsylvania Judo & JuJutsu
outhwestern Pennsylvania Judo & JuJutsu (originally Southwestern Pennsylvania Judo) was founded in 2008; in 2018 they began offering instruction in traditional JuJutsu. We offer Judo instruction to boys, girls, men & women ages 7 and up and JuJutsu instruction to men & women ages 13 and up. Judo & JuJutsu both aim to teach techniques that are designed to use force and leverage so that a smaller individual may defeat and/or control a much larger attacker. Judo is a Japanese martial art and an Olympic sport practiced by millions of people worldwide. It is an excellent form of physical activity and competitive sport suitable for men, women, boys and girls of all ages. We have two big rules we try to get across to our kids: “Try your best,” especially on things they feel they’re not good at, as it’s the only way they’ll improve. Our other rule is to “Have Fun.” With these ideas in mind, we hope to see all kids set down the proper path to learn Judo and have fun practicing it for the rest of their lives. Students will learn techniques appropriate for their age and skill level emphasizing Respect, Discipline, Coordination and Focus. Our curriculum for our teen and adult students provides a great way to get into and stay in shape. Judo places an emphasis on throwing opponents and subduing them via pins, chokes and locks, making it an effective form of self-defense. It won’t become dull or routine because as soon as
you get better and continue learning, there are always more challenges ahead to keep you inspired and coming back for more! Southwestern Pennsylvania JuJutsu students will learn a system of practical self-defense drawing on traditional and modern JuJutsu techniques. JuJutsu is a Japanese martial art and method of close combat originally designed to defeat a lightly armed or unarmed attacker. In JuJutsu, practitioners train in the use of many potentially harmful moves. However, because students train in a noncompetitive environment, the risk of injury is minimized. Many jujutsu systems are the work of individual outstanding technicians, but this is not the case with the system taught at SWPA Judo & Jujutsu. Our program is not a personal system or style. We are guided by the unique compilation of nearly 1,000 years of street and technical experience and by more than 30 martial arts experts. Through the United States Judo Association’s Jujutsu program, we are able to offer our students the philosophy, techniques and training methods from a vast knowledge base unavailable at many other clubs. We invite you to come to our Dojo and try Judo or JuJutsu. The first lesson is FREE! We are open! Please go to our web site at www.swpajudo. com to book classes, view our COVID-19 rules & payment options.
Toothman Dental
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long East Greene Street in Waynesburg, a picturesque brick cottage sits guarded by its landmark cement dairy cow. This charming building has been an enjoyable home for Toothman Dental practice for more than 30 years, welcoming new and current patients of all ages. The Dental Center tucked away in this delightful cottage provides care for all phases of general dentistry using the latest technology, including digital x-rays. The captivating building was built by Donald Stewart in 1926; Stewart was a local blacksmith and carpenter. The arching doorways, art, and antiques that bring life to the space and visitors may feel as though they’ve entered an enchanted storybook. Adding to the enchantment, the upstairs is home to a very special grandfather clock with a very special – and very famous – guest. Since January 2000, the Tooth Fairy has taken up residence in the grandfather clock where she spends the day sleeping, when young children get to – very quietly – take a quick peek as she slumbers. Every night, she takes flight and leaves through the balcony door, returning home in the morning after her work is done. Dr. Toothman began her career in dentistry early, working alongside her father at his dental lab in Pittsburgh. Upon graduating The University of Pittsburgh Dental School in 1982, Dr. Toothman then moved to Greene County after being assigned to the Bobtown Community Health Center. She worked there until she opened her own practice. Shortly after moving here, Dr. Toothman met her future husband and she went from being ‘Dr. Schmidt’ to Dr. Toothman – a perfect name for a dentist, we must say.
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• GreeneScene Community Magazine • Business Section
D r. To o t h man and her staff are dedicated to providing a safe atmosphere for clients at all times and have taken extra precautions to minimize contamination during the pandemic. Each patient will be screened twice – while making the appointment and arriving for the appointment. The screening will include questions regarding the client’s travel, symptoms, and possible contact. If there is any chance of the client has or may have COVID-19, the appointment is postponed. Patients arriving for their appointment will complete the second screening, have their temperature taken, are encouraged to wear a mask, wash hands upon arrival, and will wait in their cars until they are called in to avoid waiting room overlap. Behind the scenes, Dr. Toothman’s office has always followed the meticulous standard cleaning processes required in dentistry. The office is following all CDC and PA Dept. of Health guidelines and continues to adapt to these policies as they are revised. If you’re looking for a dentist for you or your family, you won’t find better service, a friendlier staff, and as charming an atmosphere anywhere else. To schedule a visit, call 724-627-5399.
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Haunted Hills Estate Scream Park
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his year’s COVID-19 crisis has resulted in the cancellation of thousands of entertainment events throughout Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia, but one popular Haunted Entertainment Venue has decided the show needs to go on. Haunted Hills Estate Scream Park in Uniontown has been hard at work altering their attraction for “safe scaring”, and will be doing so through implementations of new technologies, closely monitored throughput of customers, and frequent sanitation of surfaces, among many other practices. “This has been a difficult year for many of us in the entertainment business,” says Aidan Finnegan, the event’s Marketing Director. Born and raised in New York, which was considered the epicenter of the pandemic for a significant period, Finnegan heard first-hand accounts from family and friends detailing the devastating effects. “It’s so disheartening to hear of all the local county fairs around here having to cancel because of health concerns. The events are summer traditions for so many; but we’ve taken a pledge to restore some normalcy to the area this Fall.” Finnegan claims their production crew have been researching the most up-to-date safety recommendations, and have been modifying their plans of operation to accommodate these new challenges. Scare Actors will be placed at a greater distance from patrons, but the Scream Park’s team has implemented new technology at each “scare spot” which utilizes massive sound and audio effects to accompany and accentuate the actor’s movements. “It’s an incredible marriage of live-action and technology, and the fact that it’s helping us safely operate is the icing on the cake,” says Finnegan. He further states that this technology has been used previously in some of the largest Haunted Events in the country. The Scream Park has also hired a new “Cleanup Crew” which will be frequently sanitizing all surfaces in the Park. But don’t get too close - in keeping with the theatrical terrors, these team members will be in-character at all times, donning theatrical Hazmat Suits and silently stalking the park’s visitors in between their safety duties. Visitors will have their temperature taken before they can approach the park’s ticket booth, and will also be required to walk through a metal detector as part of the park’s new safety procedures. An expanded security team will be on hand to closely monitor visitors’ behavior throughout the park grounds. However, new safety measures won’t be the only change visitors can expect to see. The park has undergone significant changes and expansions in preparation for the 2020 Fall Season. The complex will now feature a total of 6 individual Haunted Attractions (as compared to last year’s 3), and also features a newly expanded Midway Area, complete with new Midway Games, Killer Clowns, new Giant Animatronic Monsters, actual remnants of a defunct carnival, and even Axe Throwing on most nights. Among the new attractions is ‘Corn-tine,’ the park’s first-ever corn maze, where mutated victims of a pesticide accident stalk visitors, looking for their next meal. “We’ve really pulled out all the stops this year. If you’re going to come to the Scream Park, THIS is the year to see it.” “After so many events have been canceled this year, I am happy we have reconstructed our haunt to comply with guidelines to keep both our customers and staff safe while provid-
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ing our customers with a good time”, adds Jessica Wymard, the venue’s Director of Operations. “Our actors have always been super committed to their roles, and that stands true this year as we are all adjusting to wearing masks and distancing while scaring. They are all committed to providing a terrifyingly good time, while being safe; and it has been so nice to see our team working together to be able to open and provide the entertainment we are known for.” Haunted Hills Estate Scream Park previously presented a Haunted Christmas event, which was named by The Travel Channel as one of the Top 10 Scariest Christmas Haunted Houses in the Country, as well as a Haunted Valentine’s Weekend in February, which opened to rave reviews. The Scream Park will open for a special “First Responder’s
Night” on September 11th, during which first responders will be able to enter for an unprecedented 50% discount. The park will then be open weekend nights through November 7th. Haunted Hills Estate Scream Park is located at 236 Rolling Hills Estate Road in Uniontown, PA. Guests can visit www. HauntedHillsEstate.com for tickets and more information.
Business Section • GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
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• GreeneScene Community Magazine • Business Section
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McCracken Pharmacy
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riginally established in 1961 by Jack McCracken, this local drug store has progressed in all the right ways over the years, changing where change was needed while keeping personal service a tradition; very much in keeping with the slogan, “Yesterday’s Service, Today’s Technology.” Long-time pharmacist, Scott Adamson, who began his relationship with McCracken when he served an internship in 1992, purchased the pharmacy in 2013, when Jeff McCracken retired. With the same philosophy of balanced progression and tradition, Scott has continued the work of keeping McCracken Pharmacy at the forefront of technology and modern convenience while maintaining comfort and personal attention to every customer. The last couple years have brought many easyto-see changes as McCracken Pharmacy underwent a total re-branding, introducing a new logo design, color scheme and complete remodeling of the building’s interior and exterior. Located at the gateway to downtown Waynesburg, the remodeling project enhanced both the McCracken building and the neighborhood around it. With carefully chosen colors and style that represent McCracken’s unique brand of “Yesterday’s Service, Today’s Technology” the look certainly says it all. Scott is quick to point out, however, that the longevity and most valuable asset to McCracken Pharmacy is what you find inside the building – the people. “We’ve been fortunate to be able to maintain a relatively large staff, and to keep a high caliber of people who are consistent and compassionate with our customers, I’m proud to work with the people here,” Scott emphasizes. There are four pharmacists on staff, along with 8 additional techs
and support personnel serving McCracken’s customers. That’s how they continue to provide “Yesterday’s Service” you can’t find anywhere else. As for “Today’s Technology,” McCracken Pharmacy has always been a leader in the latest tools and expertise to deliver accuracy and efficiency in filling prescriptions and serving all needs of customers. That never changes. Just as McCracken was among the very first pharmacies to even use computer technology back in the 1960s, and later the most innovative dispensing systems, our local pharmacy today is helping to pioneer new methods of packaging designed to facilitate and improve accuracy in daily dosing of medications. “We offer innovative blister and strip packaging systems that clearly label and separate medicines for daily doses and help patients and caregivers stay informed and in control,” Scott explains. Particularly useful for those who take multiple doses and meds, this new system is easy to follow and much appreciated by customers. Just one more example of how our iconic “corner drug store” with all the charm of Yesterday’s Service is still a leader in Today’s Technology.
Lippencott Alpacas
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et your date to tour Lippencott Alpacas three cria’s will compete in the show rings in the and Farm Store! Visit and see our four spring. males, seven females and three crias (baA few years ago, Lippencott Alpacas made bies) enjoy life on the farm as they grow amaz- a major breeding decision. We chose to only ing fiber for next year’s shearing. have quality alpacas over quantity. Our farm Raising alpacas that produce fine fiber only produces white or light fawn colors. The for yarns, clothing, and stadium seats/rugs is industry has more uses for the light colored fithe main reason we chose to raise alpacas. Just ber; the fine white can be used for yarns and being with alpacas is a unique delight that we high quality clothing. The decision has been want others to experience; being with them beneficial to our farm. lowers your blood pressure and calms your The Farm Store also introduced new every nerve. That’s why we’re so happy to offer changes. We now focus more on yarns but still tours! sell a variety of gloves: texting, double layer, glittens, driving and reversAlpacas are usually calm. They enjoy people ible gloves. We also maintain especially when the word, an inventory of socks: famous “grain” is spoken! Visit the hunter, knee, therapeutic, colfarm and enjoy watching crias orful, Christmas and animal run in the pasture while the print socks. Other popular clothing - such as vests - are older alpacas chew on grass and hay. also available for men or Our breeding male women and our stuffed bears (herdsire), Oblivian’s Honor, and alpacas are favorite gifts! is the proud dad of one cria To make a reservation, named Starrlette. We also call 724-852-4084, email lenhalf-own a herdsire named agaling@windstream.net, or Reflection that lives on anGlitter Lily and the Greene County visit Lippencott Alpacas on other farm. His daughters are Facebook. Fair Queen and PA Fair Queen. Glitter Lilly and Socialite. All
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Business Section • GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
Community Foundation Accepting Fall Community Grant Applications
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he Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) is accepting applications for several grant opportunities for nonprofits and public schools and teachers. Grants are available from the following funds: Community Grant Fund projects may include (but are not limited to) any one or more of the following broad priorities: Arts, Culture & Humanities; Children, Youth & Families; Community and Economic Development; Education; Environment; Food and Hunger, Health & Fitness; and Human Services. Grant awards for Community grants will not exceed $2,000. Cindy’s Wind Fund for Women and Girls will provide two grants of $500 to projects which help women and girls fulfill their potential. The Cindy’s Wind Fund seeks proposals for projects that aim to help women and girls fulfill their full potential, which may include activities such as information programs, direct service programs, special activities, professional development and more. L&M Medical Needs Fund for up to $33,000 to provide financial assistance to patients or clients for medical needs, such as medical prescriptions, hospice care, or other
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medical services, in Greene County through qualified non-profit organizations who serve individuals in need of such services Consol Energy Excellence in Education Fund will provide up to six grants of $250-$500 for teacher-led classroom projects that fall outside the normal school budget, or that the teacher would otherwise use their own funds. EITC Innovative Education Fund for Greene County public school approved innovative education projects. $6,000 is available for one or more grants. FMI about these grant opportunities, please go to our website http://www.cfgcpa. org/about-cfgc-grants/ to review guidelines, application procedures and process. The deadline to submit applications for each of these funds is October 1. Successful grant awards will be announced in late November. Applications will be accepted though the CFGC Online Grant Portal on the CFGC Grants website at http://www.cfgcpa.org/apply-for-a-grant/. FMI, contact the office at 724-627-2010, or e-mail cfgcpa@gmail.com.
• GreeneScene Community Magazine • Business Section
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CASA of Greene County
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hen a child enters the Dependency Court system in Greene County they are often confused and scared. It is a stressful and uncertain time. These children need to know that someone is in their corner and will stand up for them. This is where the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Greene County comes in. CASA of Greene County is a pool of volunteers who have been specially trained to speak on be-half of children who have suffered abuse and/or neglect and to ensure the child’s safety and well-being. These volunteer advocates may be the only constant adult in many of these children’s lives during the duration of their court case. Research suggests that children in the foster care system who have a CASA volunteer spend less time in court, are less likely to be bounced around foster homes, do better in school, and are more likely to be adopted (when necessary). CASA of Greene County was formed in late 2018 and began taking cases in December of that year. Currently, there are 16 trained and active volunteer advocates handling 23 children in the Greene County Court System. All 16 volunteers are residents of Greene
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County, and Executive Director Aaron Houser is looking to add more names to the list of CASA volunteers. CASA of Greene County will be holding their first advocate training of 2020 beginning in September. “The people involved in the juvenile court system have predicted that there will be a surge in cases due to abuse and neglect. These cases will be recognized upon the children returning to school,” Mr. Houser states. It is believed that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial effect on the number of reported cases of abuse and/or neglect. Mandated reporters are professionals such as teachers, principals, nurses, and doctors who normally have a place in the children’s lives. These mandated reporters have not been able to be there over the past few months due to school shutdowns, the cancellations of appointments, and quarantines. The role of a CASA advocate comes with responsibilities. The advocate must read all of the child’s records including school reports, mental and physical health information, and court documentation. They must interview or speak with, not only the child, but the parents, foster parents, social workers, school
officials, and other family members. The advocate must visit the child regularly. Most importantly, they must make recommendations for the child’s best interests and advocate for the child during all court hearings. “It is a challenging role, but a very rewarding one,” Aaron Houser says. After completing 30 hours of training and passing background checks and screenings, the volunteer advocates are appointed to a case by the President Judge. No formal education in social work is needed. “Training is open to anyone who passes background checks and has an interest in helping children who are in need,” Mr. Houser says. CASA of Greene County is a small organization at the moment, but even with their small size, they have been able to produce a huge impact on the children its advocates have served. “I am hoping to add additional staff soon,” Mr. Houser states. With the addition of a staff member, CASA will be able to double the number of children being helped and make a larger impact on the future of our communities. Aaron Houser is a Greene County native and 2001 graduate of West Greene. He and his wife, Emily, have recently moved back to
the area with their young son, Tennessee. If anyone is interested in becoming a CASA volunteer, please contact the CASA of Greene County office by calling 724-8332615 or by emailing greenecountycasa@ gmail.com. You can also visit their Facebook page (www.fb.com/greenecountycasa) and website (www.greenecountycasa.org) FMI.
Business Section • GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020
DJ’s Diner
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s the country starts its slow reopening process, many businesses are doing their best to bounce back from the crippling shutdowns that have plagued them for months. One of those restaurants is DJ’s Diner in Carmichaels, PA., which is back open offering dine-in breakfast and lunch for their customers. “Our goal is to try and get back to normal,” says DJ’s co-owner Debby Allen. “We have been restricted for so long and we just want to remind people that we are open and are a safe place that offers great breakfast and lunches.” DJ’s, like many other restaurants, was forced to shut down for several weeks, but that didn’t stop Debby from giving back to her neighbors. The restaurant had a lot of extra food after being closed for months, and she went around to her neighbors trying to help those in need. “I took some of the extra food we had from the restaurant and went around to help my friends and neighbors in my community,” says Debby. “I passed out cases of eggs and small bags of
potatoes to each family based on their size as a way to help them out.” That spirit of helping people is still alive in the restaurant today as they re-open their doors. Debby’s sister Tracy Ingram is back in the bakery after a battle with cancer and is making the delicious homemade pies everyone has missed, and the restaurant is still offering breakfast and lunch daily from 7 am to 3 pm. Overall, Debby just wants her customers to know that DJ’s is back and is a safe place to have a meal. “I just want people to know that you can come out to eat here and it is a safe place to eat a meal,” says Debby. “Our goal is to make you feel safe and be able to sit down and enjoy a meal with your friends and family.”
Ozie’s Sport Shop
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s the intense heat of summer winds down and the leaves begin changing color, autumn outdoor activities like hunting are on everyone’s minds. For those of you looking to get the right gear for a successful hunting season, look no further than Ozie’s Sports Shop in Rices Landing. Ozie’s Sport Shop is ready to assist you with getting everything you need to have a successful time while pursuing your favorite activities. Ozie’s has been serving the Greene County community since 1978, when John Ozohonish, along with his father John (Pokey), opened the store along Route 88. John has retired and his son Jim, who was always helping in the store while growing up, operates the store now. Jim, Jim’s wife Tracy, and daughters Emily and Abby are continuing the tradition of supplying the community’s hunting and fishing needs. You can still frequently find John at the shop, rocking in his chair and drinking his coffee. Ozie’s supports the community and assists with fundraising efforts, gun bashes, and other endeavors. They have continued their efforts to raise money to keep Ten Mile stocked.
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• GreeneScene Community Magazine • Business Section
I n addition to the wide variety of hunting, arc h e r y, and fishing gear available at Ozie’s, you can also get y o u r hunting and fishing licenses. During the summer, they also have live bait for fishing and their inventory continues to expand to include new, popular items. Starting in August and going through September, Ozie’s will have 3D Outdoor Archery. Last hunting season, Ozie’s started a youth buck hunting contest, which was free to enter. Due to the contest’s great success, they will keep the contest going this year. FMI on Ozie’s events and promotions, call 724-592-5009 or visit their Facebook page @ oziesportshop.
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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Pittsburgh, PA Permit No. 1219
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GreeneScene Community Magazine •
SEPTEMBER 2020