Apr May GreeneSaver 2016

APRIL / MAY 2016

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www.4seasonsinc.net

724-627-6153 600 Rolling Meadows Road Waynesburg, PA

HOURS: Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM & Sat 8AM-2PM

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APRIL / MAY 2016

APRIL / MAY 2016

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I Love this P l a ce

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An undated post card overlooking the town of Nemacolin from a rather high vantage point. We believe it to be taken from the mine property.

NEMACOLIN, PA

by Tara Kinsell

hances are, if you live in the vicinity of Nemacolin, at some point a wayward motorist has stopped to ask how to get to there. It has happened to me. Only, the Nemacolin they sought was the swanky one in the Laurel Highlands.

It might seem pretty far-fetched that Nemacolin in Greene County might be confused with Nemacolin Woodlands. Interestingly, if one takes a look at the history of ‘our’ Nemacolin, there was a time when the person asking for directions might indeed have been looking for the town built by the Buckeye Coal Company in the early 1900s.

Nemacolin, in its day, was the premiere coal mining town. The homes built for it weren’t your typical “patch houses.” The 446 houses that came first, in what is referred to today as ‘old town,’ were as modern as the times afforded. They were spacious with electricity and indoor plumbing, some even had fireplaces.

Like other coal mining towns, such as Mather, it had an amusement building, a theater, and its own school.

Unlike other mining towns, Nemacolin had its own public sewer system and for a brief period its own hospital. And, at one time, sitting high above the model town, its own swimming pool. (See our Greene Scene of the past) It was unique in many ways.

One of its late residents, Steve Popovich, a close friend of yours truly, lived away from Nemacolin for many years. Despite rubbing shoulders with, and helping the careers of the likes of Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, The Everly Brothers, Michael Jackson and Meatloaf, he never forgot where he came from, but Steve’s story is one for another day.

He once called growing up in Nemacolin as “a sort of mini-United Nations.” As he recalled, all the kids got along, whether they were black or white, Italian or Serbian, it didn’t matter. Family and community were the most importing things. It was a good place to grow up, he’d say, crediting the town and its people for the man he became.

We were working on a book about his hometown when he passed away in 2011. I still have notes on Alexander’s Roller Rink, the soda grille, and White Eagle Park, where young Steve learned to appreciate the ethnic music of all the nationalities that comprised the town. So, it was first through his eyes that I saw Nemacolin, long before I ever stepped foot in it.

As I recently drove its streets looking for inspiration for photos, I could see the promise of where the town is headed. The closing of the mine in 1986 took its toll on this model mining town. But, today, there is a movement among some of its residents to restore the sense of pride from generation’s past.

A refreshed community park in the center of town with its pavilion, playground and baseball field offers families a place to gather and children to play. It’s a start.

It wasn’t through rose-colored glasses that Steve saw Nemacolin. He was a straight shooter.

He knew all too well the hardships that many went through working in and losing jobs and lives in the mine and the many lost to war. If life had taught him anything, it was that, if you fall down, you pick yourself back up and keep going, he’d say.

Like Steve, we love this place, and hope one day when a wayward motorist stops in Carmichaels to ask for directions to Nemacolin the answer will be, “You are almost there.”

A memorial to the miners that worked for the Buckeye Coal Company at left and a much larger one to those lost in WWII in the center of town.

The sign at the top of the hill entering Nemacolin dates the town to 1917.

A 1931 safety meet brought out men in shirttails and ladies in dresses.

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Sonny Alexander on guitar, Steve Popovich on accordion and an unknown friend play music in Nemacolin.

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G ree n e Sce n e of the Pa st

by Tara Kinsell

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o those who have never seen this GreeneScene of the past it may come as a surprise that this is the Nemacolin Community Swimming Pool. Images show a nearly Olympic sized pool and bath house surrounded on its perimeter by pine trees.

The pool itself was 50 feet by 150 feet. The property, donated by the Buckeye Coal Company, sat on a hill with a magnificent view of the town below. Those above a certain age in and around Nemacolin remember it fondly. The pool opened in 1950 and operated until 1978 when it was closed due to the cost of repairs to keep it operational. It was very much a community pool, paid for by the community and built with materials donated by the Buckeye Coal Company, for which the town was originally built. Like her Waynesburg counterpart Elizabeth Walker, Mary Louise Guidas is remembered by many in Nemacolin as the one who taught them how to swim. After the pool closed, recreational swimming was then offered by the pool currently operated by the county department of recreation and pools at Wana B Park in Carmichaels.

If you have an interesting old photo from the area you’d like to share, just send it to: GreeneScene of the Past, 185 Wade Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370. Or email to: info@greenesaver.com with GreeneScene Past in subject line. The GreeneSaver can even scan your original in just a few minutes if you bring it to our office. We are particularly interested in photos of people and places in the Greene County area taken between 1950 and 1980, though we welcome previous dates, too.

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CARMICHAELS CHURCHES JOIN FORCES

etting kids into church seems to be somewhat of a challenge these days.

With video games, cell phones and computers pulling away so much of their attention, pastors have found a need to become more creative in their methods of drawing the youth.

That is the case for a three-church consortium in Carmichaels.

Pastor Rebecca Dittenhafer, who presides over the Hatfield Ferry Parish of the Lutheran Church, understands this all too well. With churches in both Masontown and Carmichaels, Pastor Dittenhafer knows how the attendance can fluctuate, especially among youth.

At her very historic church, Jacob’s Lutheran in Masontown, the Sunday service attendance is mostly adult, with occasional visiting youth. “Jacob’s is a much older church than St. Paul’s (her church in Carmichaels),” she said. In fact, Jacob’s Lutheran Church is the oldest Lutheran church in the United States west of the Allegheny Mountains.

According to a history on the church, it was originally a German Meeting House before it was established as a Lutheran Church in 1773. The earliest burial in the cemetery on the church grounds took place in the winter of 1765.

St. Paul’s Lutheran, on South Market Street in Carmichaels, began in 1947 in what was the old Central School. The school building, now vacant, is on the opposite side of the street, within eyesight of the current church house. Pastor Dittenhafer says St. Paul’s draws an average attendance of 35-40 parishioners each Sunday. “At St. Jacob’s we don’t have many children that attend so we offer a children’s ministry as needed. At St. Paul’s we offer a children’s sermon during the worship service each Sunday,” she said.

As a member of the Carmichaels Ministerium, Pastor Dittenhafer is enthusiastic about St. Paul’s joining with other area churches to address the need to bring more children into the fold.

“Instead of trying to do it independently, we are looking for things we can offer together for young people,” she said. “We are seeing what we can work out with the idea of joining forces, that we might not be able to accomplish alone.” She explains

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St. Paul’s Lutheran Church is one of several churches in Carmichaels working together for youth outreach.

that the goal is to broaden the approach to teaching children about Christianity rather than focusing on each one’s specific doctrine. “The Carmichaels First United Methodist Church and the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ are both on board and excited about the possibilities in youth outreach we can achieve together,” says Pastor Dittenhafer.

Current Carmichaels UMC Pastor Bruce Judy has recently received a new assignment in Irwin, Pa; the new incoming pastor is Rev. Dayton Mix from Clarks Mills, who has already expressed his interest in joining the efforts. Rev. Reagan Fike of the First Christian Church shares the enthusiasm. The three churches are within walking distance of each other in Carmichaels, and recognize the advantages and plan to be offering cooperative programming for youth, possibly as early as this summer.

For more information about the Hatfield Ferry Parish, contact Pastor Dittenhafer at 724-966-7177.

You can reach Pastor Reagan Fike at the First Christian Church, 235 S. Market St., Carmichaels at 724966-5174. Pastor Dayton Mix may be reached, after July 1, at the First United Methodist Church, 101 W. South St., Carmichaels, 724-966-7022.

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13 t h A n n u a l S h e e p & F i b e r F e s t

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et ready for sheep-shearing, woolspinning, dog-shepherding fun as the 13th Annual Waynesburg Sheep & Fiber Festival takes over the Greene County Fairgrounds Saturday and Sunday, May 21 & 22, 2016. The festival, which is coordinated by Waynesburg Prosperous & Beautiful, celebrates the heritage of lamb, wool and fibers in Southwestern Pennsylvania.

The hours are 10am to 5pm with both days packed full. The festival schedule includes a juried fiber arts & craft show and sale featuring vendors from throughout the northeast region, many demonstrating and selling fiberrelated wares. A huge selection of fiber (fleece & yarns) and fibers arts supplies will also be plentiful for purchase from vendors. The festival also offers a Fleece Show & Sale. Producers can enter skirted fleeces of wool; cash prizes will be awarded and many fleeces will be offered for sale.

New this year is the Shepherd’s Lead Line Contest, designed to showcase the relationship between the shepherd, the sheep and wool apparel. Open to both boys and girls aged 5-18, the competitor leads a young sheep around the ring while wearing an outfit made primarily from wool. Clothing includes sewn, knitted, crocheted, felted or woven item. There are classes in three age divisions with cash prizes for 1st-3rd in each. Rules and entry form online at www.sheepandfiber.com

There is also a fiber arts contest open to the general public with various categories for knit, crochet, woven and other articles with divisions for youth and adult. You can also find the rules and entry form for this and all the contests, a list of vendors and a complete schedule of events for the weekend at www. sheepandfiber.com.

The popular “fleece to shawl” competition will be staged on Saturday. This demo features several teams in a timed competition to create a finished shawl. Spectators see the process from the cleaning and carding of the fleeces straight from the animal, then spinning and weaving into the finished shawl, all in one quick assembly-line operation. Several spinners and weavers guilds participate, and the finished shawls are offered at auction to festival attendees. A breed pavilion will display more than a dozen breeds of sheep; alpacas and fiber breed rabbits will also be on display. Visitors will have a chance to watch live demonstrations of professional sheep shearing and sheepherding dogs performing their amazing talents.

Those interested in learning the best techniques and recipes for preparing lamb will be treated

to several lamb cooking demonstrations by renown area chefs. These demos will be offered several times each day. Not only do you get to watch and learn – you get to sample! Plenty of free taste testing will be offered throughout the weekend.

Other activities include live musical entertainment and children’s interactive fiber related activities. The 13th Annual Sheep & Fiber Fest is sponsored in part by Lippencott Alpacas, the American Lamb Board, and Greene County Tourist Promotion Agency. Admission is FREE. For more information on the Sheep & Fiber Fest, please visit www.sheepandfiber.com, or call Waynesburg Prosperous & Beautiful at 724-627-8119, or 412-600-9585. You may also email msm@waynesburgpa.org.

GreeneScene by Mike Monroe

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Co ol at S cho o l

by Tara Kinsell

Local Students Receive Top Awards

W Patriot’s Dream Riders Raise Serious Cash for Cancer Society

Spectators check out the slick rides being shown off at the Patriot’s Dream Riding Association’s Cruisin’ for a Cure in 2015. Photo by Randy Laskody.

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he Patriot’s Dream Riding Association’s Cruisin’ for a Cure event will mark its sixth anniversary on May 21 from noon to 4 pm at Alpha Aquatic Center in Waynesburg. Since its inception, Cruisin for a Cure has raised roughly $34,000 for the American Cancer Society. In fact, 100 percent of the proceeds brought in by the car and bike cruise each year go to the ACS. In 2015 alone, the Patriot’s Dream Riding Association (PDRA) was able to present nearly $10,000 to the ACS. The event began at the insistence of radio personality Doug Wilson, said Tom Ayres, president of the PDRA. “At the time we were helping out each year at the 50s Fest. It was about 7 years ago when Doug asked if we would consider doing a car show too. I remember saying, “We’re a motorcycle club. What do we know about cars?”” Tom laughed. “I asked if he though we could raise $600.”

Tom said the association was hosting a tent at the Relay for Life at the time. The ACS had requested that each Relay for Life team raise $600.

“That was our original goal [with Cruisin’ for a Cure]. Then the first year we ended up making $3,500, then $6,500 the next year, then $7,500,

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then $8,000, $9,800, $9,900. It kept going up.”

Weather is the primary factor that affects the success of the event, Tom said.

The group also hosts a Kick Cancer’s Butt Motorcycle Run a week prior to the car cruise.

This May 14 will be its third year. This event has raised around $6,000 for the ACS, Tom said, to bring the total raised by the PDRA to approximately $40,000.

The 90-mile motorcycle run leaves from Waynesburg Yamaha at noon on May 14 and ends in Blacksville, W.Va. The cost per rider is $15 with a $5 fee for passengers. All riders and passengers must sign a waiver and all proceeds go to the ACS. Registration takes place from 10 am to 11:30 am.

Event t-shirts are available for $10. For more information, contact 724-833-2992 or email pdra. greene@gmail.com.

Registration for Cruisin’ for a Cure is $10 per car or bike. Spectators are welcome to stroll the grounds of the Aquatic Center at no cost.

Trophies are given in various categories, along with dash plaques and t-shirts for participants. Food, music and raffles also add to the fun of the event for this very serious cause. For more information, visit the Patriot’s Dream Riding Association Facebook Page.

hen Robert Morris University (RMU) put on its fall theater production of the musical, “Love’s Labour’s Lost,” it was an instant hit. So much so, that the show was selected by theater professionals in the region as one of the finest regional productions for 2015.

This selection earned the production an invitation to the Region II, Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival in January.

In March, three of the actors from RMU received national recognition for their performances by the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington, D.C, including two Carmichaels Area High School Graduates, Victoria Buchtan and Robert Kowalewski. Victoria was recognized for distinguished achievement by an actress in a musical, while Robert received the same recognition the male equivalent.

There were only 14 such awards presented throughout the nation for 2015 with RMU receiving the most total winners from one institution.

“It is a tremendous honor for Victoria,” said her mother, Vanessa Davidson Buchtan.

There are 18,000 students from colleges and universities across the United States involved in the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF).

According to the Kennedy Center, “these student artists from across the United States have been recognized for their outstanding work from the eight regional festivals that were held January 5 through February 27, 2016.”

The program was developed in 1969 by Roger L. Stevens, the Kennedy Center’s founding Chairman, to encourage and celebrate the finest and most diverse theatrical productions from colleges and universities nationwide.

Victoria Buchtan and Robert Kowalewski

A selection panel consisting of members of the KCACTF National Committee, Executive Committee, and the KCACTF Artistic Director met over the eight weeks of the regional festival calendar to discuss the work. At the conclusion of the final festival at Angelo State University in San Angelo, Texas, the selection panel made the award decisions that included Robert and Victoria.

To be included with the likes of those who have been honored by the Kennedy Center is certainly something we think is Cool at School.

SITE MANAGER WANTED Waynesburg Farmers’ Market

Waynesburg Prosperous & Beautiful Inc. is now accepting applications for Site Manager of its Downtown Waynesburg Farmer’s Market.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE JOB: To coordinate weekly operations of the Market from mid-May to mid-October (Wednesdays, 9:30 am-2:30 pm), be the Market “point person,” and serve as a representative in good faith of Waynesburg Prosperous & Beautiful. Must be on-site during weekly Market hours and must be able to devote regular non-market time to marketing and administrative duties as needed. Must be available by cell phone during Market hours and have access to e-mail and/or the Internet.

Part-time seasonal, no benefits. Full description of duties and qualifications/ requirements available online at www.waynesburpa.org.

Interested candidates should send resume to Larry Marshall, WP&B Manager at MSM@waynesburgpa.org GreeneSaver •

APRIL / MAY 2016

GreeneScene by Tara Kinsell

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THEY’RE BA-A-CK! The Return of the Periodical Cicadas

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Tree with brown twigs called “flagging”

Newly emerged adult cicada

Also known as the 17 year locusts.

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By Bill Wentzel, retired forester

re you ready for some noise? Just like clockwork, after 17 years of silence, the periodical cicadas will “sing” this May and June in Greene and Washington counties. Some of you will remember their last visit in 1999. No other insect excites more curiosity and wonder as does the periodical cicada when it makes its sudden springtime emergence.

The periodical cicada is a native North American species. It is the longest-lived insect on this continent, making it the “Methuselah” of the insect world. Periodical cicadas are commonly referred to as “the 17 year locusts” and are widely distributed over the eastern half of the United States. They occur nowhere else in the world. In different parts of our country periodical cicadas appear in different years. They are grouped into broods. This spring and summer Brood V will appear in our area.

Early American colonists had never seen the periodical cicadas. When they appeared by the millions, some of those colonists thought a locust plague had come upon them, as described in the Bible. The term “locust” actually refers to certain types of grasshoppers that swarm in large numbers in Africa and the Middle East. However, the name “17 year locusts” still remains the most common description for this U.S. insect.

Adult periodical cicadas have red eyes and dark bodies with wing veins that are red-orange in color. They should not be confused with their cousins, the common “dog day” cicadas that are larger in size, mostly green with black eyes, and appear in smaller numbers each summer during late July and August.

The periodical cicada insects are noisy. They are rather clumsy fliers and often collide with objects during flight. Although they appear ominous, they are harmless to humans and are more of a nuisance. They cannot sting or bite; they don’t even feed on leaves. They are just here to reproduce and then they die. Your pet dogs or cats will eat them as delicious morsels. Birds, squirrels, and other wild animals relish them. Incidentally, they also make good fish bait.

Sometime after emergence, males will begin to sing to attract female mates. The noise they make sounds like “e-e-e-yow” and they will sing all day from sun-up to sun-down during the month of June. That adds up to quite a racket. Only the male cicada has, on his abdomen, the drum-like organ that produces the insect’s loud music. They sing more loudly as the afternoon’s temperature rises, and then they quiet down in the evening.

These insects live an extraordinary life. For 17 years they inhabit the dark underground as immature nymphs. Then in May of the 17th year they begin to migrate to near the soil surface where they await unknown cues for mass emergence. When the unknown signals occur, the nymphs exit the soil and crawl up a nearby tree trunk. There they shed their skin, which remains attached to the tree, and emerge in the space of a few short hours as winged

adults. Shortly after emergence the cicada will be soft and white in color, while its new exoskeleton is hardening. You can observe this fascinating process with a flashlight during the nighttime hours.

About 10 days after emergence, females will mate and begin depositing eggs in tree twigs that are about the width of a pencil up to one half inch in diameter. They seem to prefer hardwood trees such as oak, black locust, white ash, sycamore, hickory, maple and apple. Coniferous trees are unaffected.

Most of the damage done by the periodical cicada results from the splitting of the twigs when a female lays her eggs. She does this by using the blades of a saw-like devise on the end of her abdomen. This severely weakens the twigs. The foliage on the twigs subsequently turns brown (a process called “flagging”) and in the wind these affected twigs break off and drop to the ground. Hatching occurs 6 to 7 weeks after egg-laying. The resulting nymphs drop to the ground and burrow into the soil where they will feed upon sap from tree roots for the next 17 years.

The periodical cicada’s damage to trees, especially small ones, can be quite severe. To avoid this, one recommendation is to delay the planting of new trees until the egg-laying period is over. Also, the pruning of fruit trees, especially those less than four years old, could be postponed until summer.

Small trees can be protected by enclosing them with cheesecloth, or finely woven netting, tightly fastened around the tree trunk for the duration of the egg-laying period. This covering should be placed on the trees when the first “singing” is heard and removed after adult activity has stopped, usually around the first week in July. Most smaller trees that are not protected will require corrective pruning for the next several years to help bring the tree’s shape back to normal.

In 1999 the periodical cicada first appeared like clockwork around May 18. They became numerous and noisy around May 29. About June 4th the female cicadas began to lay eggs, causing twig damage on trees.

This continued through June 18th. From June 24 to the beginning of July the cicadas began to wane and die. The last ones were seen or heard around July 7th. This same pattern can be predicted for this year although the warmer-than-normal weather we’re having may alter the schedule a bit.

The periodical cicadas make up a truly amazing group of animals. The origin and significance of their extended life cycles have been a continual source of puzzlement to biologists. Without parallel in the animal kingdom is their incredible ability to emerge by the millions as noisy, flying, gregarious adults within a matter of hours after having spent 17 years underground as silent, burrowing, solitary, sedentary juveniles. (Alexander and Moore, 1962) The appearance of these periodical cicadas, precisely on time every 17 years, is an amazing, fascinating and captivating occurrence in the creation, one we are privileged to witness this spring.

Laying Eggs in a tree branch.

Cicada pictured on a finger.

Netting surrounds tree to protect it from invading cicadas.

Damaged branch from egg laying.

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GROWING IN GREENE TRIVIA CONTEST WINNER Jeanne Caruso of Waynesburg, PA

WORD SEARCH WINNER WINNER OF A DOMINO’S PARTY PACK Kimberly Smith of Waynesburg, PA 12

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APRIL / MAY 2016

FAN PACK WINNERS

Frank Paulish

James Hayes

of Mather, PA

of Waynesburg, PA

WINNER OF FRIDAY NIGHT BULLRIDING TICKETS

WINNER OF SATURDAY NIGHT BULLRIDING TICKETS

WINNERS OF 2 TICKETS, 2 SHIRTS AND 2 HATS APRIL / MAY 2016

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The Yellow Brick Road Stops Along Route 88

by Tara Kinsell

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Jackie Workman shows off her new flying monkey to add to her vast collection of Wizard of Oz memorabilia.

pen the door to Jackie Workman’s Carmichaels home, which also happens to be mine, and you find her very own Wizard of Oz museum. As you glance around a room spanning the length of the house, each wall pays homage to the 1939 film of the same name.

“The fascination with it started when I was just a little girl.

My mom and I always waited for the movie to come on TV and we would watch it every year,” she said. “When I had my own children I carried on the tradition. When it came on they and their friends would have a sleepover and movie night and we would watch it together.”

She leaves no doubt which of the movie’s characters holds her heart.

“My favorite is the scarecrow. I think it’s because I loved what he stood for. He was always so sweet and helping to Dorothy,” Jackie said. Her collection doesn’t give away the answer to her favorite as she collects all things Oz equally. As many pieces as she has it is surprising to learn she only started collecting around 12 years ago.

“Someone bought me something and then it took off from there,” she said.

Christmas, which happens to also be Jackie’s birthday, is guaranteed to bring something Oz-related. Of course she decorates one tree solely in Oz ornaments, of which she claims at least 100.

“I ‘d say 40 of those are from Hallmark. I always get excited each year waiting to see what they put out, especially the ones that have moving parts, play music or recite lines from the movie,” she said.

Collecting items from the movie turned into spin-off collections when Jackie began finding sheet music and records by Judy Garland; Ray Bolger, aka the scarecrow; Bert Lahr, aka the cowardly lion; and Jack Haley, aka the tin man. She also has a hefty collection of biographies on each, as well as books about and by several of the actors who played munchkins in the movie.

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It would take volumes to list everything Oz that Jackie owns.

Some of the pieces include, puzzles, board games, talking Viewmaster reels, marbles, a Dorothy marionette, glassware, a Dixie Cup dispenser, bobble heads, dolls, Pez dispensers, post cards, and on and on. Among these hundreds of items, from some of the very earliest produced to more recent offerings, Jackie could name her favorite.

“Oh wow, it is probably that hand puppet you (yes, me) bought for me. I think that’s the most interesting piece I have,” she said. “I always try to stick with the things that are MGM original pieces (Metro Goldwyn Mayer produced the movie in 1939).”

Jackie’s Oz findings come from all over as each vacation and weekend excursion has a moment where we are inside an antique shop or thrift store asking the inevitable, “Do you have anything Wizard of Oz?” “You just never know when, or where, you are going to find something. As many places as we go, we always seem to find at least one thing, like that tea set,” she said, reminding me that it came from Coronado Island in California. It was there that we saw Wizard of Oz author, L. Frank Baum’s inspiration for the Emerald City, the Hotel del Coronado. “Don’t forget to mention that,” she said, excitedly recalling the adventure.

As auction season begins to roll around, we won’t have to journey too far to find something. Although they only pop up randomly, Oz collectors don’t part with items very often, it does happen occasionally that you find something.

“Remember how we had to buy that whole lot of Snow Babies to get that Wizard of Oz one? Oh, and how I bid on that box of nutcrackers to get the Tin Man,” she said. He was the only Oz character in the box. She traded the winner a heating pad he wanted to get it.

For Dorothy Gale there may have been, “No place like home,” but for Jackie Workman, without a doubt, “There is no place like Oz.” GreeneSaver •

APRIL / MAY 2016

BORTZ SUBARU “SHARE THE LOVE EVENT” BENEFITS GREENE COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY

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his past Holiday Season, Subaru of America held its annual “Share the Love” event to help raise money to donate to charities, nationally and locally, with every Subaru purchase made. Retailers and their customers were given the opportunity to give back to causes they value, and Bortz Subaru of Waynesburg was pleased to once again partner with our local Humane Society of Greene County to raise funds to benefit their cause of rescuing, sheltering, and caring for sick, abandoned, abused, neglected, or unwanted animals in our area.

Earlier this month, Bortz Subaru’s General Manager, Rich Bortz (pictured on the right), was proud to present our Humane Society’s Board President, Mike Gyurke, with yet another check totaling more than $4,000 made possible by the generosity of Subaru as well as Bortz and its customers. “Because the Humane Society of Greene County is a no-kill shelter and its work relies on

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donations to continue, Bortz was honored to support their cause,” said a spokesperson for the dealership. In addition to funds raised, Bortz’s customers and employees graciously donated many pet supplies including collars, leashes, bedding, food, and toys to add to the overall comfort and well-being of the dogs and cats sheltered there. Both Mike and the society’s Executive Director, Jane Gapen, expressed appreciation for the donations from Bortz Subaru and its customers and for the partnership they’ve shared for several years.

If you live in the Greene County, PA, area and are looking for a pet to love, please consider adopting through the Humane Society of Greene County located on Jefferson Road in Waynesburg.

There are plenty adorable pets waiting for their “forever” families to come and take them home!

To find out how you can help, please visit www. greenepet.org or www.facebook.com/hsogc.

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World Class CEO Award

Greene County Rabbit Club Members Take Honors Members of the Greene County 4-H Rabbit Club participated in the recent Washington County Rabbit Breeders’ Club’s annual Spring Rabbit Show. The show attracted over a thousand entries from several states. Two members from Greene had an exceptional day, winning top honors. Top cicture, from left, American Rabbit Breeders Association judge Stacy Easton-Martin, Ryan Grecoe and Allison Pecjak. Ryan took home the title of Reserve in Show Youth with his Californian and Allison took home Best in Show Youth with her New Zealand. Photo

by Jane Longstreth.

Best In Show

University President Douglas G. Lee, pictured, has been selected as a co-recipient of the Southpointe CEO Association’s World Class CEO Award for 2016.

“I am honored to be recognized by the Southpointe CEO Association in this way,” said Lee. “This award reflects the dedication of the entire Waynesburg University community. Together, we bring life to our mission of inspiring and challenging our students to pursue lives of leadership and purpose.”

Lee, along with co-recipient Charles Keller, senior counsel at the law firm of Peacock Keller, will be honored Thursday, June 16, at a dinner at the Hilton Garden Inn in Southpointe.

“President Lee provides the leadership of Waynesburg University through his commitment to our mission,” said Heidi Szuminsky, vice president for institutional advancement and university relations. “His passion for our students is extraordinary. He truly embodies our mission, and the numerous accolades received by the University during his tenure are a result of his leadership.”

Lee joined Waynesburg University as executive vice president in October 2009. He was unanimously elected president of the University by the Board of Trustees in September 2012 and took office July 1, 2013.

Under Lee’s leadership, Waynesburg University has received national attention for the economic outcomes of its graduates. The University is a Pittsburgh Business Times “Best Place to Work for 2015” and recognized internationally as one of the most beautiful Christian college campuses in the world by Christian Universities Online.

Lee was named to The Pennsylvania Business Central’s Top 100 People list of 2013 and has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America®. He is

an elder at the Presbyterian Church, has served on the Greene County Planning Commission and is a graduate of Leadership West Virginia and the FBI Citizens Academy.

He is an Eagle Scout, has served on the Executive Board for the Mountaineer Area Council Boy Scouts of America and is a member of the Fort Jackson Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution.

Lee has also served on the Boards of the Union Rescue Mission in Fairmont, W.Va., the Harrison County Bar Association, the Westminster Foundation of West Virginia and Howe Cemetery. He was a volunteer fireman, serving as line officer and executive officer.

An endurance athlete, Lee is a finisher of three Ironman Triathlons and six marathons, including the Marine Corps Marathon and Death Valley Marathon.

Parks and Recreation Receives Award Greene County Parks and Recreation Manager Pam Blaker has received an Excellence in Recreation and Parks Award from the Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society, Inc., recognizing the department’s “UP STREAM” program, held as part of the 2015 Greene County Summer Day Camp.

Funded by the Greene County Memorial Hospital Foundation, UP STREAM, an acronym for “You being Physical in Science, Technology, Recreation, Engineering, Art and Math,” was held for the first five weeks of day camp. Each of the four day camp sites in the county participated twice a week with interactive discussions explaining lesson themes and hands-on activities that engaged campers to use creativity and apply their new knowledge in constructing various arts and crafts. Lessons included crystal and fossil formations, molecules and polymers, plants and honeybees, human skeletons, rockets, and wind, storms and the travel of light.

Campers had the opportunity to improve strategizing and problem-solving skills and conduct various experiments that helped them see science in a fun light. After the lesson and activities, campers then participated in a game or sport related to the lesson for the promotion of physical activity.

The program capitalized on the increasing interest in the STEM fields – science, technology, engineering and mathematics – that have been identified as key growth areas for jobs.

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First National Bank Contributes $3,000 The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) was presented with a contribution of $3,000 from First National Bank of Pennsylvania which can be used towards grants for Greene County public schools as part of the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program.

“At First National Bank, we are proud to support organizations such as the Community Foundation of Greene County because we believe our involvement is an investment in the people we serve,” said Rick Cordes, Market Manager for First National Bank. “Enhancements to our schools benefit the students, and in turn, create a brighter future for the entire community.”

Since 2005, the Community Foundation has provided grants for innovative curriculum improvement in public schools, scholarships for stuPam Blaker, Greene County parks and recreation manager, dents attending accredited K-12 private schools or scholarships for children who attend qualified and accepts a Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society, Inc., approved Pre-K programs through the EITC proExcellence in Recreation and Parks Award from Barry Bessler, chair of the PRPS recognition and awards commit- gram. In years past, CFGC has given grants for adtee, at a ceremony held March 15 at Seven Springs. vancements such as iPads and laptops for science, English and art programs, the Greene County EnSince 2006, the Greene County Department of virothon, EMT Certification curriculum, and the Recreation has been recognized with 10 Excellence Science Matters program.

If you would like more information about, or in Recreation and Parks Awards. to make a contribution through the EITC program,

Sheila Stewart (right) Vice President, First National Bank, presents a contribution to Bettie Stammerjohn (left) Executive Director, Community Foundation of Greene County, for the Foundation’s EITC Educational Improvement Fund.

contact the Community Foundation at 724-6272010 or email at cfgcpa@gmail.com.

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Ground Breaking of EQT REC Center… It’s Coming!

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60,000 square foot recreation and community center is officially under construction at the EverGreene Technology Park near Waynesburg, the culmination of a multi-year vision and effort of the Greene County Memorial Hospital Foundation. According to Sheila Stewart, president of the foundation, actual planning for the center began about two years ago, with the intention of creating a facility that not only addresses the recreational and physical health needs of the community, but also provides educational and social opportunities. The REC in the center’s name actually stands for Recreation, Education and Community. During a re-

ception following the groundbreaking, Foundation Executive Director David Jones praised the efforts of the Board and fund raising committee, and recognized the financial supporters including several local businesses and individual donors, along with the Naming Facility Sponsor EQT. EQT President Steven Schlotterback noted the company’s successful operations in the Greene County area and added, “For us, it’s not just about doing business. Many of our employees live here or grew up here and we all have great respect for our neighbors here…We wanted to be able to give something back to the community that has always welcomed us and has grown with us in recent years.”

A key feature of the facility will be an indoor soccer field. Greene County United Soccer President Steve Hogue was among the guest speakers at the ceremony and gave significant praise to the project and spoke of the new possibilities for growth in what already attracts more than 500 youth from throughout the county for fall and spring seasons.

There will also be a basketball court, locker rooms, a climbing wall, concession area, walking path,

and multi-purpose rooms for meetings, exercise or educational classes, private parties and game rooms. A child care room is included in the plan.

A suspended track overlooking the soccer field will provide an inspiring exercise path for walkers and joggers and a 6,000 sq. foot fitness center is also in the layout.

Plans target a completion date by the end of 2016.

Battle of the Bots

A ground breaking ceremony was held earlier this month by Greene County Memorial Hospital Foundation (GCMHF) for the much anticipated EQT REC Center to be constructed at EverGreene Technology Park. Foundation board members were joined by officials from EQT, the Naming Sponsor of the project. Pictured (L-R): GCMHF Board Members Bret Moore and John Dorean, EQT Corp. President Steven T. Schlotterbeck, EQT Corp. Director of Communications Natalie Cox, GCMHF Board President Sheila Stewart, GCMHF Executive Director David Jones, GCMHF Board Members Matt Blair, John Kendralla, Jay Hammers and Kirk King.

Greene County Homeschoolers Robotics Team Members (l-r): Ashton McCartney, Daniel Westich, Joshua McCartney, Jacob Shaner, Julia Westich (not pictured Dalton Campbell)

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e were well represented at the Southwestern Pennsylvania BotsIQ Finals held at California University earlier this month, when Greene County Homeschoolers Robotics Team competed with 87 other teams during this twoday tournament showcasing skills in design, engineering, robotics manufacturing and academic excellence.

“We placed 33 out of 87 in the finals,” said team member Joshua McCartney, who noted they were a first year team at the tournament, which has a ten year history. Many top scoring teams have been participating for the majority of those years, including tournament Grand Champion Hempfield Area High School team, which was awarded the same honor last year.

The competition begins at the high school level, and serves a greater goal than just fun and games, according to William Padnos, executive director of BotsIQ, the Pittsburgh-based program that organizes the yearly robotics competition to promote manufacturing education and work skills. Padnos was quoted in the Tribune Review: “Right now, there’s a massive skills gap in manufacturing, and there’s not only a skills gap, there’s an interest gap,” he said. “There are probably going to be about 2 million job openings by 2025. So unless we get these high school kids to be interested, and exploring careers in manufacturing, they’re never going to start wanting to fill these jobs.” The thrill of robot combat gets young people excited and teaches them fundamental skills, he said.

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Teams invest a great deal of time in designing and building a robot that will battle against others for survival through the tournament. The “fight ring” is actually a bullet-proof glass encased cubicle where the bots battle it out by remote control from the outside. Scores take into account both bot performance and academic excellence based on how teams show their work through documentation.

“We first began work on our robot, named TRIM (Totally Radical Indestructible Machine), last June,” said Joshua, “We all had fun at the tournament, and we have learned about manufacturing and the opportunities we have.” The Greene County Team is composed of seven members: Ashton McCartney, Daniel Westich, Jacob Shaner, Eli Broadwater, Dalton Campbell, Julia Westich and Joshua McCartney.

TRIM – the robot

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Branch & Dean Join Morgan’s Army

A GreeneScene by Jim Sommers

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Friendly Competition the Name of the Game

f you are 50 or older and looking for a way to make new friends and stay healthy, why not consider participating in the 2016 Senior Games offered through the Southwestern Pa. Area Agency on the Aging? Now in its 30th year, the theme of the 2016 games is Celebrate the Past, Awaken the Future.

You don’t have to be a super athlete to take part. The “games” in the event name can be bowling, dartball, Wii Bowling, bowling, golf, 8-Ball Pool, or cards, to name a few.

Other games include: basketball, golf, running and walking events, softball toss, stationary bike, and bocce ball.

The senior game season begins in April with tournaments in the various sports held by districts, which include Greene, Washington, Fayette, and Mon Valley. The Greene County District teams play at the Carmichaels or Waynesburg activity centers, depending on the sport being played. Washington County District teams play at the Bentleyville Senior Center, McDonald Se-

nior Center, and the Canonsburg Senior Center, depending on the sport being played.

All bowling competition will take place at the Meadows Bowling Center Lanes in Washington.

The winning team from each district will compete in the area-wide championship on May 10 at the Center on the Hill in Belle Vernon. The 2016 Senior Games Championship will be June 15 at Laurel Highlands High School.

Craft and food booths, an informational health fair, free health screenings, and a variety of entertainment will also highlight the games for participants, spectators and fans.

Individuals, clubs, churches, and senior organizations interested in receiving more information about the games and how to register should contact the nearest Area Agency on the Aging. In Greene County the number is 724852-1510. In Washington County it is 724-2287080, and in Fayette County it is 724-430-4603.

ground swell is taking place for Waynesburg Central High School graduate, Morgan Yoney. At just 21-years of age, Morgan is in a battle for her life. The group, Morgan’s Army, which formed to help her fight Cystic Fibrosis (CF) and receive a life-saving double lung transplant, has grown well beyond the borders of Greene County.

The word of Morgan’s need for an O positive set of lungs through direct donation is spreading like wildfire across social media with businesses from Pittsburgh to Morgantown, W.Va. posting the plea on windows and message boards.

On April 29, a benefit concert will be held at the Perfect Round at Rohanna’s in Waynesburg to help the Yoney Family. Featured will be Nashville recording artists, Branch & Dean, celebrity ambassadors for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

It is a cause close to the heart of Steve Branch, who lost his son, Theron Steven William Branch, 23, in 2013 to CF. Branch & Dean are known for their recording of “The Dash.” Joining them on the bill at the Perfect Round will be Drew Johnson, the Coleman Lee Band and others. The cost of a VIP ticket is $15, including a meet and greet with Branch & Dean at 6 pm, followed by the show at 8 pm.

General admission tickets for the 8 pm show are $10 each. For more information, contact 724-7101843.

Morgan underwent a double lung and liver transplant in 2010. Sadly, her new lungs went into chronic rejection in 2013. Since then, scarring has made the necessity for a second set of 0 positive lungs imperative.

In addition to the concert, a gofundmepage has been established to help Morgan’s parents, Tammy and Bob Yoney with travel, lodging and meals when the lungs are found.

To date, more than $11,000 has been raised on the gofundme toward a goal of $15,000. Anyone wishing to contribute may do so at https:// www.gofundme.com/morgansarmy.

Morgan Yoney and friend, Steven Perrine, work to spread the message across all 50 states that Morgan is in need of a direct organ donation of O positive lungs.

Although Morgan is on the transplant list at UPMC, the family is seeking what is known as a direct donation as time is of the essence. This would require a family to name Morgan as the recipient of an O positive family member’s lungs when they pass. Nationally, the waiting list for lungs is nearly 2,000 with 190 waiting in the Commonwealth.

To follow Morgan’s journey, like the Morgan’s Army Facebook Page.

Branch & Dean will perform at the Perfect Round at Rohannas on April 29

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DOCK TO LOCK

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The start of last year’s race on the Greene River Trail

he Greene County Department of Recreation will host the 2016 Dock to Lock 5K Run/Walk beginning at 9am Saturday, May 7, along the Greene River Trail. Registrations are open on Race day at a cost of $20.

Race-day registration and packet pick-up will begin at 7:15am at the Rices Landing Fire Hall in Rices Landing. At 8:30am, participants will be bussed to the starting line of the Greene River Trail at the Greene Cove Yacht Club in Millsboro, Pa. The race will be timed by SERJ Racing Services of Uniontown.

Following the race, a reception will be held at the Rices Landing Fire Hall. Awards will be given for the top three male and female runners and walkers overall, as well as the top three male and female runners and walkers in various age categories.

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Refreshments and a random drawing for prizes will also be held.

Proceeds from Dock to Lock benefit Department of Recreation programs, such as the summer Day Camp program, which offers free activities for county children ages 5 to 15. This year, Day Camp will be held June 20 through July 29 at various locations across the county. Sponsors of this year’s Dock to Lock include the Greene County Commissioners, Chapman Corporation, First Federal of Greene County, First Student, Greene County Sheriff ’s Office, I-79 Mazda, Rices Landing Volunteer Fire Department, Road ID, Wal-Mart, Watters Pools and Waynesburg University.

To download a race entry form, visit www. co.greene.pa.us. For more information, call the Department of Recreation at 724-852-5323.

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Spo rt Sh or t s

by Tara Kinsell

The Super 6

Pictured above (in no special order) are state qualifiers Caleb Morris, Kyle Homet, Colin McCracken, Terry Victor, Cole Rush and Shaun Wilson, along with coaches and team mates.

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aynesburg Central had six state qualifiers that went on to compete for the PIAA AAA Wrestling Championship in Hershey PA. That has not happened since the 1980s; for the Waynesburg Wrestling fans it was quite an event to remember.

The WPIAL tournament had the fans on the edge of their seats as two of the seniors, Cole Rush and Terry Victor picked up their 100th victories along with claiming two spots to Hershey . The excitement did not stop there , Shaun Wilson went on to be the solo WPIAL Finalist for Waynesburg.

The Raiders returned from Hershey in possession of two medals. Colin McCracken earned his 7th place victory with a pin in the consolation finals.

Shaun made his way to the semi finals dropping to a close 5-6 decision but coming back to claim a 5th place title for the Raiders. Shaun was also chosen to represent the WPIAL and compete in the Dapper Dan Pittsburgh Wrestling Classic where he officially ended his Varsity career with a dominating 4 takedown match resulting in a 8-4 decision. Shaun has committed to continue his wrestling career at Waynesburg University.

BOWLBY BITS Annual Book Sale - During May, the gently used book sale will be offered in the Gazebo during normal business hours.

Creative Crafting for Adults - May’s project is a coffee filter wreath. Cost of materials is $15, due at registration; Choose the class on Thursday, May 5 at 5pm, or Saturday, May 14 at 10am. Register in advance.

CPR Certification - FREE American Red Cross Adult, Child & Infant CPR Certification training at Bowlby Library on Monday, May 9, 5-8pm. Register in advance.

Bowlby Book Club - Monday, May 9 at 6pm.

Book discussion will be Pretty Little Killers by Daleen Berry. New members welcome!

Color Outside the Lines - New program for adults interested in the latest craze of adult coloring books. Coloring has been shown to be stressreducing, calm-inducing, and joy-producing for all ages. Coloring sheets & supplies provided. Grab your lunch and come every Wed., 11am -1pm.

Teen Advisory Group (TAG) After-After Hours - All teens 13-18 are invited! Friday, May 13, 8-10pm. Suggested $2 donation at the door; please pre-register.

Tiny Tim Tomato Project - Tuesday, June 7, 5pm, for children ages 2-6 years. A Master Gardener will be at the library to guide youngsters on planting and growing their very own healthy tomato plant! Also stories & crafts about gardening with Mrs. Kerry McClure. Register now.

T.O.P.S. - Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weight management support group that meets every Saturday 9:30 - 11:30am at the Bowlby Public Library.

FMI or to register for events, call Eva K. Bowlby Public Library at 724-627-9776

Shaun Wilson , Dapper Dan Wrestling Classic.

Rohanna To Be Inducted

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t has been announced that Rachel Rohanna will be part of the class of inductees to the 2016 WPIAL Hall of Fame. The 2009 Waynesburg Central High School graduate is currently a member of the LPGA Tour.

During Rachel’s high school career she was

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a two-time WPIAL and state champion for the 2005 and 2007 seasons. Rachel was a two-time Big Ten Conference selection at Ohio State, leading her team to back-to-back NCAA championship appearances in 2011-12. This is her rookie season on the LPGA. GreeneSaver •

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ike Wolfe, Frank Fritz, and their team are excited to return to Pennsylvania! They plan to film episodes of the hit series AMERICAN PICKERS in Pennsylvania with filming scheduled for summer 2016.

AMERICAN PICKERS is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique ‘picking’ on History Channel. The hit show follows Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, two of the most skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques--from motorcycles, classic cars and bicycles, to one-of-akind vintage memorabilia.

As they hit the back roads from coast to coast, Mike and Frank continue their mission to recycle America by rescuing forgotten relics and giving them a new lease on life, while learning a

thing or two about American history along the way.

AMERICAN PICKERS is looking for leads and would love to explore your buried treasure.

They are on the hunt for characters with interesting and unique items. Some of what they look for: vintage bicycles, toys, unusual radios, movie memorabilia, advertising, military items, folk art, early firefighting equipment, vintage musical equipment, automotive items, and clothing. They are always excited to find things they’ve never seen before and learn the story behind it.

If you or someone you know has a large, private collection you are invited to send your name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to: americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855-old-rust.

Rices Landing Riverfest Vendors are being sought for the Rices Landing Riverfest. The Riverfest is being held from 5 pm to midnight on June 10 and from 1 pm to midnight on June 11 on the lockwall in Rices Landing. Parking for the event is available at the end of the lockwall and a shuttle will run from the Rices Landing Volunteer Fire Depart-

ment Parking Lot, 66 Bayard Ave. Admission to the Riverfest is $2 for children 12 and under and $5 for all others. Proceeds benefit the fire department. Live music, kids games, face painting, food, and much more are part of this annual festival. FMI search Facebook for 2016 Rices Landing Riverfest sponsored by Chevron.

Accepting Grant Applications The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) is accepting grant applications for CFGC summer community grants. Applications will be accepted through June 1 for project activities beginning after Aug. 1. Successful grants will be announced in late July. The foundation expects to award three to five grants ranging from $500 to $2,000 per grant project. Proposed projects may include, but are not limited to, the following: arts, culture and humanities; children, youth and families; community and economic development; education; environment;

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health and fitness; and human services.

A new priority this year is for grants focusing on helping women and girls achieve their full potential with a mini grant of $500 from the new Cindy’s Wind Fund for Women and Girls.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit, charitable, tax-exempt organizations recognized as a 501C3, as well as educational institutions or schools, religious organizations, and government organizations whose purposes and programs benefit Greene County residents. FMI: 724-6272010, email cfgcpa@gmail.com, or visit the foundation website at http://www.cfgcpa.org.

Do You Play Piano?

The Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church in Dilliner is in need of a pianist. Call 724-324-5429 for more information.

Lifeguard Course The Greene County Department of Recreation will offer a lifeguard training course beginning May 23 at the Alpha Aquatic Center, 200 E. Roy Furman Highway, Waynesburg. Those interested in working as lifeguards at any of the three Greene County Pools this season must be at least 16 and able to attend and pass courses in professional lifeguarding, first-aid, and CPR/AED training. The preregistration deadline is May 16. The cost of the course is $250, payable on the first day of class with a discounted rate for lifeguards already employed by the county.

The three county pools are scheduled to open Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends, although pool hours are subject to change due to staff availability or inclement weather. FMI: 724852-5323.

New Spring Programming The Greene County Department of Recreation has announced a new series of classes and programs focusing on outdoor activities and indoor hobbies. All classes will take place in different buildings at the Greene County Fairgrounds.

New programs include classes in gardening,

essential oils, jewelry making, cake and cookie decorating, and youth conditioning. Pre-registration is required, and individual fees will vary.

FMI 724-852-5323 or visit www.co.greene. pa.us.

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GreeneScene by Rebecca Morris

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