GreeneSaver: January/February Issue by GreeneScene Community Magazine / Direct Results

JANUARY FEBRUARY 2013• •GreeneSaver GreeneSaver JANUARY / F/EBRUARY 2013

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All Night Skate

(l to r): Floretta Chambers, Dance Competition Organizer; Marissa Romanakis, 12, of Waynesburg, 11-12 yr. age category winner; Austin Strahan, 13, of Carmichaels, 13-14 yr. age category winner; and Jake Blaker, Director.

ore than 200 individuals rolled in the New Year at the fifth annual “All Night Skate,” held New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31, 2012, at Mon View Roller Rink and Community Center in Greensboro. Activities for the event, which began at 10 p.m. Dec. 31 and ended at 6 a.m. Jan. 1, included continuous skating, games, prizes, hot dogs and sauerkraut at midnight. Waynesburg Rent-ACenter donated a large-screen TV for the “Just Dance 4” competition, which featured winners based on skill level. The event was sponsored by the Greene County Commissioners, First Federal Savings and Loan of Greene County and Waynesburg Rent-A-Center. FMI on other “Skate and Dance” events and for Mon View Hours, contact Mon View Roller Rink at 724-943-3440, or the Department of Recreation at 724-852-5323.

GreeneScene By John Greenlee

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2013

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n March 7th, Chris Hardie will embark on the 7th annual Chris Cross the County fund-raiser run to benefit the American Cancer Society (ACS). But this year, the Assistant Dean of Student Services and Cross Country Coach at Waynesburg University won’t be stopping at the county line. “From March 7-9, two members of my coaching staff, a university faculty member, and I will be running the entire span of Pennsylvania, from Greene County to Lake Erie,” Chris announced. “It is a distance of about 200 miles, and we expect to complete the relay-style run in 72 hours.” Chris has long been involved with the ACS. “I lost a grandmother to cancer when I was a child,” Chris said. “I had two friends die during college from the disease, and lost another in 2005. Cancer is a disease that takes away people’s opportunities, and I feel a need to help those fighting against it.” In 2006, after Chris married, moved to Waynesburg, and began to lead the Greene County Relay for Life team, he ran the first county-crossing run. Since that time, it has grown annually into a larger event. “I want to Chris Hardie during one of the early CXC runs keep it new and fresh in people’s minds,” Chris in 2008, photo by Tara Kinsell. said. “I don’t want the idea to stagnate, so I make it bigger and better each year. I have run for longer distances, I have run with the University track team, and last year, I threw the javelin about 1,000 times (equal to 10 miles). I want people to continue to want to support my efforts so I can continue to support the ACS.” One of the things Chris decided could benefit the effort was to include several people on his team. “More people involved means more people raising money, and that can’t be bad,” Chris added. “So three others will join me in a 200-mile relay run from Greene County to Lake Erie. We hope to raise about $10,000.” University Communications Professor, Mike Harwick, University Graduate Assistant Michelle Cross, and University Assistant Cross Country Coach Shane Gottschalk (the GreeneSaver’s own!) will each run 50 miles towards the goal. “We are all into distance running,” Chris said. “We are simply asking people to sponsor us for doing it this time.” Sponsorships can be made by the mile, as a one-time gift, or through the purchase of teeshirts. “We are also bringing back corporate sponsorships, where a company name and/or logo can be printed on the shirts before they are sold,” Chris concluded. “The deadline for corporate sponsorships is February 10th, and can be made by contacting me or any member of the team.” FMI, email Chris at chardie@waynesburg.edu or call his cell phone at 814-931-1250. Checks made payable to American Cancer Society may also be mailed to 51 W. College Avenue, Waynesburg, PA 15370 (ATTN: Chris Hardie.) Editor’s Note: GreeneSaver readers who are interested in helping the cause are invited to sponsor our lead graphic designer, Shane Gottschalk, for his 50-mile leg of the 200-mile journey. We challenge our readers to donate 50 cents, one dollar or more per mile that Shane runs. If you accept the challenge, please contact the GreeneSaver at 724-627-2040 to make your pledge.

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hen tragedy struck in Newtown, Connecticut on December 14, 2012, many people became glued to their televisions. The horror of such an unimaginable act held the nation as if spellbound. People wondered how such a thing could happen, what could drive a person to commit such a heinous crime, and could it happen here? Jessie Carroll, of Wind Ridge, was no exception. “I was really upset,” she said. “I work at a day care in Waynesburg, and I just kept watching the news footage and thinking about all of the ‘what ifs’. What if it happened here? What if it happened to kids I know personally and care deeply about? Finally, my mom told me to get out from in front of the TV and do something instead.” So the 20-year old West Greene graduate decided to sell bracelets in memory of the victims and send the proceeds to Connecticut and the families who lost loved ones. “I set up a Facebook page and invited my 500 online friends to the site to gauge interest,” Jessie said. ‘Then I placed an order for 100 bracelets, each marked with an angel and the words, “In Loving Memory—26 Beautiful Angels” and “12/14/12 Sandy Hook Elementary.” She priced them at $3 each. “By the end of the weekend, there were Jessie Carroll fills an envelope with bracelets to mail to a over 5,000 people invited to the Facecustomer, as she raises money for a memorial tribute to book site,” Jessie said. “So many people the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School Shoot- that I had invited also invited all of their ing in Newtown Connecticut in December. friends. Orders were flying in. I went back and ordered more bracelets, and got the company to donate 400 bracelets to the cause. I was so amazed at how big it got so quickly.” But Jessie is quick to credit others for the fund-raiser’s success. “My fiancé, Dakota Riffle, has paid for a lot of the overhead costs,” she said, “and several people have given me money to help pay for the shipping costs. One thing about fund-raising via Facebook is the distance that word travels. People from as far away as Texas, Tennessee, and Canada have been ordering!” To date, Jessie has sold nearly 1,300 bracelets, which is her initial goal. “When we hit that mark, we can send $3,000 to Connecticut,” she said. “I am really hoping that some type of permanent memorial—maybe a piece of playground equipment—can be purchased and installed with this money. I think it is important to never forget what happened that day. It is important to remember the victims.” FMI or to order a bracelet, call Jessie at 724-833-3593 or visit the Sandy Hook Memorial Bracelet page on Facebook.

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GreeneScene

t was 22°F the day my first mail-order gardening catalog showed up. A little earlier than usual, I thought, but that didn’t prevent the twinge of spring fever that washed over me. More catalogs have shown up since, and with temperatures of 50°F in mid-January, my spring fever is escalating. I know this beautifully warm weather is short-lived and temperatures will soon drop to freezing again, but now is the time to PLAN! Gardening space needs to be planned, seed starting needs to be planned, and, as any seasoned gardener will tell you, the gardening budget needs to be planned. According to a National Gardening Association study, seven million more households in the U.S. planned to grow their own produce in 2013. Some seeds sell out early in the stores as well as mail-order; plan and purchase early to avoid disappointment. If you are new to gardening, and plan to use mail-order companies as well as local stores, the first task on the agenda is to order catalogs. Popular ones include: Burpee Seeds, Dutch Gardens, Johnny’s Selected Seeds, Nichols Garden Nursery, Park Seed and Seed Savers Exchange Shopping at local farm stores and garden centers should be (this is not an exhaustive list, nor do your first choice in buying seeds. I endorse any specific companies). While waiting for catalogs to arrive, do the following: • Determine how much growing space you have. Do not forget vertical growing space as with pole beans and other vine crops. Also, how much space is shady and how much is in full sun? • Determine your growing zone according to North America USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. • Establish your budget. • Acquire a notebook to use exclusively for gardening information. A loose-leaf binder works well as pages can be added as necessary, but a cheap spiral notebook will do also. • Make a wish list in your notebook of what you definitely intend to plant. • Learn which seeds need to be started early indoors. Decide whether you will start your own from seed or purchase starter plants locally at the proper planting time. • Peruse the seed displays in local stores. Note varieties, packet sizes, and prices and check against your wish list to see what you may need to order if you can’t find it locally. Record the information in your notebook for future reference. Even as you plan indoors with freezing weather outdoors, you can actually plant a windowsill garden now, too.

Working in the earth, even if it comes out of a bag, is good medicine for the spirit. Filling a container with herbs or a few greens will brighten any home. And besides, it’s a pleasant and healthy distraction from that postholiday diet. Greens, radishes and green onions are good vegetables to try indoors. Herbs such as rosemary, thyme, chives, oregano, Growing herbs inside may brighten your home and provide a nice fragrance to your garden as well as adding flavor to your meals. pineapple sage, bay and mint will provide nice texture and fragrance to your garden while adding flavor to your meals. Find a sunny window, or create your own oasis of indoor light with a grow light, or a light fixture with one cool and one warm fluorescent bulb. Consider using a combination of natural and artificial light. This will give you the best results during the often dreary, short days of winter. To increase lighting overall, place a mirror or white board under your garden. This will reflect the light back into the plants, further brightening the growing conditions of the area. Make sure your container or pots have drainage holes and a saucer to catch the excess water. Place some pebbles in the saucer and set the pot on top. When you water thoroughly, the excess water collects in the pebbles below the pot. Then it evaporates, increasing the humidity around the plants. Fill the container with moist potting mix and plant the seeds directly into the soil at the recommended depth. Water to ensure good seedto-soil contact. Cover the container loosely with plastic, and place in a warm, bright location. Once the seeds sprout, take off the plastic and move the container to a sunny window or under the lights. Thin seedlings so they have enough room to grow into full-sized plants. Water thoroughly whenever the top few inches of soil is crumbly and Make sure your potted plants are in a bright spot and have good drainage for excess water. slightly moist. In no time, you will be on your way to growing fresh garden herbs and greens from your windowsill. And those post-holiday blues will be buried in the soil.

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Greene County Youths at 97th PA Farm Show

nce again, Hayden Demniak of Carmichaels has shown the Grand Champion Junior Market Lamb at the Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg! This Greene County 12-year-old has accomplished this feat – two years in a row - at the largest indoor agricultural exposition in the nation! The 97th Annual Pennsylvania Farm Show featured nearly 6,000 animals and 10,000 competitive exhibits. This is a BIG show, and Hayden’s achievement is BIG DEAL! This year, it was “Eclipse” who earned the honors for Hayden, son of Dave and Cindy Demniak. “I really have to give credit to Greg Beatty’s Club Lambs for breeding such fine lambs and helping me learn how to show them right,” Hayden said. Hayden also received the Master Showmanship Award in his class. “He works very hard at it,” said Hayden’s dad, David. “He puts the time Hayden Demniak in the ring with “Eclipse” as he com- in, giving up other hobbies like sports peted his way to Grand Champion Junior Market Lamb to do this. We’re stepping it up too, at the 2013 Pennsylvania Farm Show. traveling all this year to compete in national level shows. He’ll be showing in the open class at the Ohio State Fair, and we’ll go to the National Livestock Expo at Louisville, and the American Royale in St. Louis…” said David. Way to go, Hayden! Show the nation what our hometown boy can do! Greene County had several other Market Lamb Club members at Harrisburg who captured some impressive awards as well. Curtis Patton showed the 1st place Junior Crossbred Market Lamb in weight Division 5, and then took the Champion Crossbred Lightweight award. Kaitlyn Jones and David Price placed 5th in their respective junior crossbred market lamb weight classes. In other arenas, more Greene County kids were showing their best and bringing home the awards to prove it. Al Cree, age 11, of Carmichaels, showed five dairy heifers in various classes at the farm show, capturing 2nd Place in the Red & White Holstein spring class. Al also received a showmanship award. Brandon Sanders placed 11th in the Purebred Yorkshire Heavyweight, class in the Junior Market Swine show. Chelsey Wilson and Cara Longstreth of the Greene County 4-H Rabbit Club showed at Harrisburg. Chelsey placed 10th in the Senior Division Rabbit Showmanship out of 21 contestants. She also took top honors with her Standard Chin receiving the title of Best Opposite of Breed and ribbons in several other classes. Cara Longstreth competed in the Novice (1st time exhibitors) Division Rabbit Showmanship and placed in the top ten. She also took a third place with her Holland Lop Doe. Also exhibiting in the open division was Lindsey Longstreth who competed with her Polish rabbits, receiving two seconds.

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Left: Steven Kingan of Rices Landing Troop 1168 planting trees at Pumpkin Run Park, a service project in his achievement of Eagle Scout status. Right: Scott Clutter & Steven pictured with commemorative sign

ongratulations to Steven Michael Kingan of Rices Landing, who became an Eagle Scout on Nov. 27, 2012 after completing his service project of reestablishing trees at Pumpkin Run Park in Rices Landing. Steven is a member of Troop 1168 in Rices Landing, Bill Flenniken, Scout Master. Steven first had the idea for his project in 2010. “There was a very bad storm that year and the park lost a lot of trees. I wanted to replace them to help the landscape and environment of the park,” he explained. “I chose to plant Hemlock because they are the PA State tree, they like shade and will grow well along Pumpkin Run.” After raising funds for the project, Steven acquired 10 Canadian Hemlocks for the park. Clark Nursery in Carmichaels donated 2 of the trees, plus shipping, handling and peat moss. Many folks and fellow scouts helped along the way as well. The trees were planted in strategic areas, and Steven also installed a visually appealing and commemorative sign describing the trees and occasion. Steven thanks all those who supported the project with financial donations, labor and equipment necessary to complete the process. Next time you visit Pumpkin Run Park, be sure to enjoy the trees – and thank an Eagle Scout for a job well done.

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by: Judy Nemeth, Licensed Title Insurance Agent No one ever gets younger. You can quote me on that, it’s one of my famous lines. And the same is true of things; no tree, no book and no industry gets younger. This includes the natural gas industry in our area. The natural gas expansion that we have witnessed in past years is no exception. It has moved beyond that point when it was just the twinkle in some investor’s eye, past the point where it was in its infancy, and it is moving steadily toward maturity. As the industry matures and new challenges and opportunities arise, this column will strive to bring the information and inspiration you need and want. It is time to move beyond the explanation of the rock and the extraction of the gas, and time to move beyond even the transporting and separating of the gas. It is time to learn about all of the exciting opportunities for its use. The region has seen a great expansion of high paying jobs that coincide with the development of the Marcellus shale. But there is more to come. We will continue to explore existing and exciting new uses of natural gas, and how these uses can bring not only this region, but our entire nation closer to energy independence. What new industries and return to domestic manufacturing are on the horizon. What existing industry will see changes, how transportation is affected – the Future of “Fill It Up” – all as a result of the nowabundant and cost-efficient natural energy

source we enjoy here. It has been the goal of this column to educate, inform and inspire you, and to provide resources for your own research, from the very first stages of exploration and development of the Mighty Marcellus Shale, which has evolved now into a new era of industry in southwestern Pennsylvania and beyond. We will continue with that same objective, now turning our focus on information about maximizing the uses of all this abundant natural gas, and what opportunities that brings to the people and businesses here. This embodies one of the goals of the Tri-County Oil & Gas Expo Committee as well, and we thank this nonprofit group of local citizens in business, education and government for sponsoring the column this year; and for continuing to bring informative events and opportunities to the residents and small businesses in this region. Save the date for the upcoming Business-to-Business Expo at the Washington County Fairgrounds – May 16-18, 2013. This year, the popular trade show will be supplemented by a two-day conference presented by the Marcellus Center for Outreach and Research of Penn State University focusing on natural gas utilization and its importance to transportation and manufacturing. More information will be forthcoming soon on that event, mark your calendars.

Mighty Marcellus column is presented as a public service by: Mighty Marcellus column is presented as a public service by:

724-966-8286 • 1-888-223-8099 724-96 3-8099

www.tricountyoilandgas.com

See our new Business Alliance Page online at www.communitybank.tv

GreeneScene JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2013

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(L to R) Frank Smith, Skip Black, Buzz Walters and Murray Williams, all USMC retired volunteers showing off a few of the hundreds of toys distributed to Greene County children through the local Toys for Tots program last month.

pproximately 660 local children received presents during the 2012 Toys for Tots distribution on Dec. 15th, with four locations in Greene County. According to USMC retired Buzz Walters, Commandant of the Tri-County Leathernecks, who organize the event, it was a great year. “We saw an increase in attendance at some of our sites and, we received wonderful donations and help from many long-time supporters,” Buzz said. “Tom and Jennie Hollowood of Eighty-Four, PA again contributed some 75 brand new bicycles. They’ve made this kind of contribution every year for several years now,” he added. In addition, collection boxes for toys were placed at various locations throughout the county including all Community Bank branches. “Andrew Corfont has been a supporter of Toys for Tots for several years,” Buzz continued, “Shirley & Roy Negley, who organize the annual Women of the Moose Dinner and Chinese auction to benefit Toys for Tots, also helped out, along with their son Sean, at the Greene County Fairground distribution location.” USMC retired Murray Williams is Finance Officer for the Tri-County Leathernecks and also the Officer In Charge (OIC) at the fairground location in Waynesburg. Murray also collects the toys from the boxes around the county. Buss assists Murray at the fairground location along with several volunteers. USMC retired John Baily is the OIC at the Carmichaels distribution center, located at the American Legion. He is assisted there by Teresa & Laura Walters. In Greensboro, the distribution is held at the fire hall, where USMC retired Chuck Zalar is OIC, assisted by USMC retired Don Humbert and Toni Cline. In Clarksville, the event is hosted by St. George Church, where USMC retired Dick Saxby is OIC and assisted by George Reick and Linda Pelkey. “We couldn’t do it without these workers, and the generosity of the people who contribute toys and gifts, the organizations, businesses and individuals who support the effort every year. In addition to those already named, thank-you to the 20th Century Club, CONSOL Energy, Giant Eagle, Big Lots, Dollar General, Rush Grocery, Michaels Auto, Shop ‘N Save, Clarksville Lions, USMC League with Ralph Palesco and Aaron Stimmel, and Bob Bosco, Joyce Coss and everyone else who contributed.” Buzz said.

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Shannopin Civic Club T he Shannopin Civic Club of Bobtown, PA came from humble beginnings. “The actual building was built by miners to give the women of the community a place to prepare food for the men of the Shannopin Mine,” said member Gina Sowden. “When the mine closed down in the mid-1940s, the building was given to the community women so that they could continue to support the neighborhood.” Since that time, the Shannopin Civic Club has held regular fund-raisers throughout the years to raise money enabling them to provide assistance and activities for the people of Bobtown and surrounding communities.

Caption: Bobtown area children enjoyed a special breakfast and visit with Santa last month, an annual tradition made possible by the Shannopin Civic Club.

“We host a bingo every Wednesday,” Gina continued. “It is held at our building, located behind the Catholic Church and beside the Post Office in Bobtown. Each month, we hold a special 50/50 drawing and donate the house’s half to a local charity. In the past, we have given the money to the Humane Society and Toys for Tots, among others. The other monies raised at the bingos fund activities such as Breakfasts with Santa and the Easter Bunny, an Easter Egg Hunt, dances, etc. It also allows us to participate in Bobtown Community Days. We like to be able to offer everything to the kids for free, and so the fund-raisers are really important.” The building also plays host to the community’s Bible Release program and the food pantry. “We want to be a source of help and inspiration to our community’s youth,” Gina said. Following tradition, the Club is comprised of only women members. “We nearly had to shut our doors a few years back, but we are in a growth phase at the present,” Gina added. “We have about 15 members right now. We have been raising money and have some great ideas for ways to use it in the coming months, and we would like to continue to see more new members and a larger turnout at our community events.” Anyone wishing to join the Shannopin Civic Club is welcome to attend a meeting, which is held on the third Monday of each month. The Club’s building is located at 777 Larimer Avenue in Bobtown, which is right beside the Post Office. Or if you’d just like to learn more about the club and the activities it sponsors, Gina invites you to call her at 724-998-6469 or check out the club’s Facebook page – just search for Shannopin Civic Club.

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Funding Flenniken The Flenniken Public Library in Carmichaels recently completed a “White Christmas” paper products collection drive. “Our goal was to zero out this line item from the budget for the 2013 year,” said Linda Orstead, Library Director. “We were hoping to receive enough donations of paper towels, toilet paper, and tissues to last the year.” They didn’t quite hit their goal – so Flenniken is still accepting the above-mentioned items as well as paper donations in the form of cash and checks. The library has expanded hours of operation to M-Th 10am-7pm and F-Sa 10am- 5pm. Library services are available 24 hours a day on the library’s website www.flenniken.org. Two young readers enjoy “Toddler Time”, one of many programs “Donations from individuals account for offered at Flenniken Library. a significant portion of our annual operating budget and allow us to offer programming such as free computer classes for adults, outreach programs, and these expanded hours,” Linda continued. “Without those much appreciated donations, other dominoes begin to tip, causing cuts in staff, reduced hours, and a general loss of services to the community.” FMI on the library or to make a donation, call Flenniken at 724-966-5263.

LIHEAP

Humane Society Lottery Calendars Crisis Funds The Humane Society is currently selling the 2013

Available

State Rep. Pam Snyder wants to remind residents that Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program – LIHEAP – crisis grants are now available for qualifying families facing home heating emergencies. “LIHEAP crisis grants address emergencies such as broken heating equipment, a lack of fuel, or a danger of being without fuel,” Snyder said. “The grants are a key part of the safety net, as a recent report noted that almost 16,000 Pennsylvania households entered the winter season without heat-related utility service.” FMI on LIHEAP contact the Greene County assistance office at 724-627-8171. Residents also may apply for LIHEAP online at www.compass.state.pa.us.

Lottery Calendars for $30. Each will have the potential to pay out every day of the year based on the Pennsylvania Lottery 3 digit evening number. Calendars can be purchased at the shelter on Monday, Wednesday or Saturday from noon until 5pm, or in the Chamber of Commerce office, or on the website at www.greenepet.org. Click on the one time donation button and type lottery calendar in the description.

Birds of a Feather

Musical Instruments Needed

Corby Caffrey-Dobosh, part-time instructor at Waynesburg University and full-time counselor at East Franklin School, posts a request for donations of musical instruments. “As a counselor, I help students in grades K-12 learn skills to help them survive school and life,” Corby said. “I believe music has a life-changing power, and I have been utilizing more music-based therapy techniques with some of my students. I play a variety of instruments and sing, so I bring in my guitar every so often. I would like to acquire some second-hand instruments for the students to use during these times. I would love to get a few guitars, possibly a keyboard, and also a few hand-held instruments like maracas, tambourines, or triangles. We need to raise between $600 and $700 to do this….” “Some of our students have genuine musical capabilities, but no support to help them further develop or explore their potential,” she continued. If anyone has an instrument they would like to donate, or would like to make a monetary donation for the cause, please contact Corby via email at corbyc@hotmail.com.

Fly Tying Fun

A different Kind of Bragging

Melissa Black, of Holbrook, posts this funny photo of her daughter, Vanessa. “We have gotten many laughs from this picture and a lot of “likes” on Facebook,” Melissa said. “We thought maybe GreeneSaver readers would like to see it, too. Can anyone top this photo for a laugh?” Well, Melissa, readers who would like to try can send photos to ads@greenesaver.com. We may select other photos to post in future Message Boards. Be sure to visit our new Facebook page as well, just look for Direct Results – and like us too!

Scholarship

Application Deadline

The Greene County Dept. of Rec posts this photo of students in fly tying classes being taught by Ken Dufalla and Lynn Murral. Students are learning the basic principles needed to begin fly tying, such as threading a hook, adding the basic body parts of a fly, adding the hackle and tying off the fly.

Shelly Koss posts this picture of her daughter, Ella, who loves to check traps with her daddy, Jesse Courtwright. “The first day, Jesse set 2 traps,” Shelly wrote. “When they went out to check them, they found this bobcat right by our home in Wind Ridge, PA! Ella carried her My Little Pony the whole way and is saying, “Bobcat!” in this photo.” What a catch! Be sure to check out all of the other area trophies in the GreeneSaver’s Hunter’s Brag Mag inside this issue.

Applications are now available for the 2013 County of Greene/West Penn Power Scholarship, which will be awarded to two graduating seniors from each of the county’s five school districts. Completed applications must be submitted to each high school’s guidance office no later than Thursday, March 28. Two students from each school district will be selected to receive a $1,000 award for their first year of enrollment at Waynesburg University. FMI contact the Greene County Commissioners’ office at 724-852-5210, Jessica Sumpter in the Waynesburg University Admissions office at 724-852-3446, or email jsumpter@waynesburg.edu.

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AUTOMOTIVE

FOR SALE: 2001 Ford Windstar cargo van with ladder rack, good condition, $2,500. Call 724-627-2040.

HOUSING

FOR SALE: For sale: 8/10 acre lot and 12 X 65 Mobile home with 1 tip out, 2 bedrooms & a nice porch. Updated bathroom and some new carpet, appliances included with home. Taxes are $500.00/yr. Carport & 2 storage buildings, city water & septic system. home is located near Waynesburg. Shown by appointment. No articles of agreement. Price is negotiable. Call 724-3440183 or 724-852-2646.

WANTED

RENTAL: Family currently living in Washington, PA looking for 2/3 bedroom home in nice neighborhood near Waynesburg for rent in March for around $700/mo. + utilities. Call 724599-6848 and leave a detailed message including the address of the property.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

RENT/LEASE: Retail and office space in downtown Waynesburg. Excellent location on High Street with private off-street parking in back. Newly remodeled. Approx. 2,500 square footage on street level, plus full finished basement and more storage. Call 724-627-2040.

MISCELLANEOUS

GIVEAWAY: Old barn wood for giveaway. Call 724-852-4415.

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â&#x20AC;˘ GreeneSaver

Clipper

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“Keep On Clipping!”

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Pre-K programs at Jefferson-Morgan School District provide 4-yearolds with early childhood education opportunities.

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Kids Get Coats

Coloring Contest Winners Winners in three age categories of the GreeneSaver’s Christmas Coloring Contest, sponsored by First Federal Savings & Loan Association of Greene County, are pictured with Santa.

Deborah Dubois, Alpha Natural Resources; student, Jesse Huff; Diane Headlee, Alpha Natural Resources; and Mahalia Grow, Jesse’s mom.

Greene County United Way “Coats for Kids” sponsored by Alpha Natural Resources, delivered over 200 coats and accessories to all school districts and Community Action Southwest Head Start centers. “Everyone had a good time and seeing the smiles on the kid faces as they received their coats was so fulfilling” said Barb Wise, Greene County United Way Executive Director.

Giving Gardeners

(l-r): Alaina Cobb, 1st in 6-7; Michelle Crow, 1st in 4-5; Rachel Bryan, 2nd in 4-5; Lillian Wolfe, 3rd in 4-5; Abby Dehart, 1st in 8-9; Paul Tuttle, 3rd in 8-9; Santa seated; Briell Price, 2nd in 8-9, Devon Cowell, 3rd in 6-7; Jasmine Rockwell, 2nd in 6-7. Standing behind the children are Chuck Trump, Assistant Secretary at First Federal, Mrs. Claus and Judy Tanner, President/CEO of First Federal. Cash prizes of $50 for 1st, $40 for 2nd and $30 for 3rd place were awarded by First Federal Savings & Loan Association.

Mapletown Gives Big

Mapletown Jr/Sr High School teacher Kristin Haywood submitted this photo of some of her students with items they collected for the Greene County Humane Society. “Recently, we conducted two big activities to raise goods for the holidays,” Kristin said. “We sponsored an Angel Tree and donated the toys to Toys for Tots. We also did a pet supply drive to support the Greene Co. Humane Society. Students donated food, supplies, cleaning supplies, blankets, a doghouse, and newspapers. We had a wonderful turn out for both events.”

Town & Country Garden Club president, Kay Bair, presents a check to Rachel Miller, an advocate for Domestic Violence Services, Southwestern PA (DVSSP), Greene County office. The check represents the club’s Christmas donation to a worthy cause in Greene County. DVSSP provides many programs to assist abuse victims, including support groups, educational programs for schools, 24-hr Hot Line, Protection from abuse (PFA) assistance, legal advocates, and emergency shelter for victims. Its main thrust is educating the public to the consequences of abuse and offering support to the victims. FMI on DVSSP, call 724-852-2463.

United Way Recognized

During their Dec. 13 regular meeting, Greene County Commissioners presented a certificate of appreciation to the Greene County United Way. The certificate recognizes the organization’s recent partnership with the County on an employee campaign. The campaign raised more than $1,200 as County employees pledged to make contributions through payroll deduction. Barb Wise, United Way executive director, thanked the County for instituting its first employee campaign. Pictured (l-r) are: Commissioner Chuck Morris; Hayley Finley, United Way executive assistant; Barb Wise; Commissioner Archie Trader; Human Resources Director Tracy Sheehan Zivkovich; and Kirk King, United Way board president.

Students Support Bowlby

Waynesburg Central Elementary students collected money to donate to the Bowlby Public Library.

Waynesburg Central Elementary School (WCES) teacher Amanda Bochna submitted this photo of some of WCES’s students who recently collected money to donate to the Eva K. Bowlby Public Library. The elementary students collected over $500.00 and presented it to Mrs. Kerry McClure to buy new books for the children’s department.

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Joy & Tess

n addition to the thousands who were watching at home, close to 50 local folks attended a special “Watch Party” in Waynesburg on January 12th as the 2013 Miss America Pageant was presented at Planet Hollywood Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada. That’s where our hometown girl, Elissa McCracken, also known as Miss Ohio, competed for the crown representing the Buckeye State (and our community) beautifully. She was a recipient of the Duke of Edinburgh Award. According to Waynesburg Area Chamber Executive Director Melody Longstreth, the Watch Party also generated over $200 to be donated to the Children’s Miracle Network in Elissa’s name. The CMN is the Miss America Systems chosen charity. Sponsoring the event for the Chamber was Senator Tim Solobay in conjunction with Direct Results. “Everyone enjoyed a very fun evening filled with lots of laughter!” said Melody. There were over 30 door prizes donated by Chamber members. Everyone who attended received a t-shirt and a tiara to wear that night, along with an autographed photo of Elissa. Hand massages were provided by The Nail Policz and stress relief minimassages by Tri State Health Care Associates. Everyone enjoyed a chocolate fountain, chips and dip and punch by Trisha’s Treats; and, when the show began at 9pm, everyone was treated to freshly popped popcorn and soda. “The Chamber organized this event to honor another one of our local youths who has followed his or her lifelong dream and made it come true. Everyone was so proud to see Elissa on that stage; she represented Ohio and Waynesburg with grace and poise,” said Melody. Photos by Connie Hart. Tim & Mel

Fran & Jerry

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Going Growing

n an effort to make science fun, Carmichaels teacher Kevin Willis thought outside of the box. And outside of the classroom. “I envisioned building a greenhouse where my students could do hands-on learning,” Kevin said. “I wanted students to see the process from seed to seedling to plant, and to learn about how things like soil quality, water, temperature, and sunlight affect plants every day. I wanted to show them the difference between native species and invasive ones. It seemed like a great idea.” With the school’s administration onboard, Kevin applied for—and received—a grant through the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC). “We received $30,000 for the construction of a greenhouse,” Kevin said. That was the start they needed. To take the whole plan to fruition, they needed a bit more. Kevin applied for a Toyota Tapestry Grant, worth $10,000. “This grant was different in that it was a national competition,” Kevin said. “We explained our vision to them—that we not only wanted to teach the life cycle of plants, but to take the native plants that we grew and transplant them on our nature trail to help combat the spread of invasive varieties that threaten our local ecosystem. I was quite pleased when we found out we had won.” That grant, coupled with the one from the CFGC and one from Alpha Natural Resources, allowed for construction to take place. The maintenance staff at Carmichaels School did all of the construction. “The staff worked very hard to get it put together properly,” Kevin added. “They even made shelves and potting benches, and we couldn’t have done it without them. Of course, our administration has been wonderful and very supportive as well.” “We then applied for a Project Learning Tree grant from the American Forest Foundation’s GreenWorks! fund that allowed us to purchase some state of the art equipment for the greenhouse,” Kevin continued. “We have been working with the Fred Clark Nursery, the PA Bureau of Forestry, Ohio Pyle State Park, and California University. Between them, they have helped us identify invasive plants so that we can remove them, worked with us on how to properly run a greenhouse, and assisted us in acquiring acorns and other native seeds to plant. It is really incredible to go into our own greenhouse now and see all of our

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sprouting oak trees and plants!” Currently, 35-40 students are working on the project for class grades, but they don’t seem to mind. “They absolutely love it,” Kevin smiled. “All of my students want to be a part of the project, not just the ones whose grades depend on it. They are learning so much in a hands-on manner and helping our environment at the same time.” The project will continue for the foreseeable future. “We want to add gardens all around our walking trail,” Kevin said. “We want to make ID cards for all of the native plants we add. We want people to get excited about what is happening down here in Carmichaels.”

Carmichaels students Parker Woodring, Connor Spangler, and Molly Roberts watering and checking on oak acorn sprouts. GreeneSaver GreeneSaver •• JJANUARY ANUARY // FFEBRUARY EBRUARY 2013 2013

BILL PARRY GARAGE AND OLIVER TRACTOR DEALERSHIP - 1949-1979

arry Garage opened in 1949 in Richhill Township, Greene County. A day when deer and foliage were scarce on the rugged landscape; however livestock and oil production were strong. Surrounded in the midst of the dark pines on Long Run Road was Bill Parry’s shop. Bill was a hard-edged man who could not be swayed from his conservative, Republican ways… and he didn’t mind giving you an earful if you felt differently. Bill DeWeese once told me while politicking on Long Run, “I was always sure to stop and talk with Mr. Parry. I was always sure not to count on his vote.” Bill quipped with a grin. If you had a problem with your vehiParry Garage as it looks today. cle or tractor, one of Bill Parry’s favorite lines was, “Well, it must have sided with the Democrats.” Bill had the finest and most impressive line of Oliver tractors that money could buy. The dark green Oliver body, offset by shiny, big black tires, was quite a sight to see on the dirt road of Long Run back in the 1950’s. That’s as fancy as Long Run would get. Bill ran a shop that could not only service all of your vehicle and tractor needs, but could also tear down an engine and rebuild it from the ground up. He used to joke that he practically made a living rebuilding old Chevys. He was not fond of the brand. When his wife, Genevieve, rang the dinner bell at 5 o’clock each day, Bill would sit down at the table, grease and grime on his Carhart pants, ready to receive a well-earned meal. Rarely did he get to finish. You see, the day usually didn’t end at 5 for hardworking people that sprang from the depression era. Bill was always on call, whether it was a flat tire or a tractor was down. Many evenings he would take his tools straight to the field to get a tractor running again, so a neighbor could finish his harvest of hay. It was an era when a neighbor was a friend and 5 o’clock wasn’t quitting time. I had the pleasure of sitting down with a gentleman who used to work with Bill in the summertime. Nelson Knapp told me a story that illustrated the true character of Mr. Parry. Just up the road from the garage was an elderly folks’ home, built originally by the Doc Woods family. It is a huge old farmhouse that still stands today. An elderly gentleman had gone out to pick berries and had strayed too far, becoming lost. Word passed quickly to Bill’s garage and he immediately stopped what he was doing to organize his family and workers into search parties. The old man wandered helplessly for hours. Nelson recalls the search became desperate, and the authorities brought a helicopter in to help. After many hours of worry, the man was found and brought to safety. Nelson recalls Bill Parry commenting that evening, “Thank God we found him.” Nelson replied, “Yes, but you lost a whole day’s work.” Bill paused for a moment before he answered, “We are to do for others as we would have them do for us.” A life lesson that came from the rugged hills in which Bill lived…a life lesson for us all.

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