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KC Excavating
ike many young boys, Karl Cole loved to play with toy tractors and earth moving equipment. Over 9 years ago that love became a way of life when he partnered with his dad, Dave, to form KC Excavating. Karl quips “The only difference playing in the dirt then, and now, is that the toys cost a whole lot more now!” When they began KC Excavating, Dave told his son, “There’s two things we have to do. One, we have to perform high quality work, and two, we need to offer reasonable and fair prices.” Nothing has changed since then. Dave says,
“75% of our work is either repeat business or referrals from our customers. So we must be doing something right.” KC Excavating has made it a practice to put customer satisfaction, reasonable prices, and high quality work at the top of their list. They are ready and willing to serve you with a wide range of excavating services. Call soon to get your free quote on your next excavation job. You’ll be very pleased they guarantee it. Call 724-998-7387. KC Excavating is an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau.
Yingling Insurance Agency, Inc.
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ingling Insurance Agency, Inc., formed in 2000 by husband and wife Curtis & Brenda Yingling, is an independent agency offering multiple lines of insurance including their primary – Erie Insurance – along with Progressive, Farmers Fire, Foremost, AIC, Aegis and others. According to Brenda, Erie continues to (L-R) Pam Whyel, Carmichaels office, Marilyn Kurilko, Carmibe a primary choice for customers because the chaels office, April Sowden, Waynesburg office, Kathryn Blumetti, company demonstrates why it continues year Waynesburg office and owners Brenda and Curtis Yingling. after year to be rated among the top insurance make informed decisions – that is knowledge that companies by J.D. Power and Associates for claims and insurance shopping experience. “Erie’s Yingling associates have, and impart to their clients founding purpose is ‘To provide policyholders with in easy to understand terms. Yingling Insurance Agency, Inc. operates two as near perfect protection, as near perfect service as is humanly possible and to do so at the lowest pos- offices, one in Waynesburg and one in Carmichaels. sible cost,’ That matches our operating philosophy There are four licensed agents in the Waynesburg well and is why we are proud to offer Erie Insur- office and one licensed agent and a receptionist in ance, which typically does prove out to be the best the Carmichaels office. Also, a most popular addichoice for auto, home, renters, business, motorcy- tion to the office crew is “Blue”, a Blue Belton English Setter (see Blue pictured at left, as he prepares cle, boat, life and annuities,” she explains. If you surveyed its clients, you would quickly to celebrate Easter). Office hours are Monday-Friday 9-5 with evefind that Yingling Insurance Agency, Inc. is also distinguished from many other agencies because nings and weekends by appointment. Brenda inof their superior personal service. It takes time and vites all those looking for quotes to “Give us a call sincere interest to know customers’ lifestyles, cur- and let us see if we can provide you with the best rent and future plans and what their very individ- insurance at the lowest cost for all your needs.” Call ual insurance needs are – that is time that Yingling 724-852-2770 for Waynesburg and 724-966-5073 associates are ready and willing to invest. It takes for the Carmichaels office. And be sure to follow knowledge of the market, the available coverages Yingling Insurance on Facebook, where Blue will and plans, the costs and considerations necessary to be giving helpful tips and info throughout the year.
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2018 • GreeneScene Magazine
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I Love this P l a ce
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by Colleen Nelson
Waynesburg University campus from above.
hen the well on a Whitely Township farm that Carhart Bowlby was lucky enough to invest in hit the Bayard Sand in 1895, it was big – big enough to drive the boom in beautiful new homes on the North side of Waynesburg. Many of these architectural beauties are still standing today, beautifully preserved by their latest owners. It took weeks to cap that well and the rumble of escaping natural gas could be heard for miles. Those lucky boom time families took the next decade to spend some of that money rolling in on homes that gave post-Victorian Waynesburg the nickname “Prosperous and Beautiful.” Oil-rich Waynesburg was, and still is, that kind of beautiful, especially on the north side. It’s here that a little college built by hand, brick by brick, is now a world-class university. Here, where the house that wildcatter Carhart Bowlby built for his wife Eva Kendal and their family has become a library any town would be proud to call its own. If you take Route 19, once known as “Washington Road” into town, you see how the streets and houses outline the bowl of land that drops down where the road splits, past houses that get progressively more ornate as the ground levels out. Greene Mount Cemetery is on the left, studding the last level spot above the sloping campus of Waynesburg University. Its ornate markers are a testimony to the lives of Greene County’s earliest settlers, whose descendants still call Greene County home. Wayne Street (named North Street when Waynesburg was first laid out in 1796) borders the park that was the common grazing grounds of this Colonial town. Take a stroll and see for yourself what has been preserved from these times. Don’t forget your dog, a kid or two and a bag of peanuts – squirrels still roam where sheep once grazed and they do appreciate a snack. “Albie” Rinehart is always willing to tell the story about his great-great grandfather Elisha, who helped build Hannah Hall in 1849, when he was a teenager. Elisha took his earnings and bought farmland on Delphene Road in Jackson Township, which paid off handsomely when the gas and oil boom came. The bricks that Elisha and other workers, including a generation of college students, used to build those early halls came right from the commons and nearby hillsides where clay seams were
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NORTH WAYNESBURG, PA
plentiful. In the 1860s the campus consisted of Hannah Hall, Union School and lots of open space and muddy lanes. By the 1870s, professor Alfred Miller put his students to work on college expansion they dug a reservoir in the commons and started digging clay to make the 1,400,012 bricks for Miller Hall. When that land became College Park in the 1890s, the reservoir was converted into a lily pond and named “Lake Juanita” after local politician and park advocate David Hoss’s daughter. Geography played its part in setting boundaries for this part of town. Stephen Gapen ended his survey at West Street when the land began dropping into Tollgate Run. West Street was where the Wisecarvers and the Bowlby’s built their stylish new homes and it wasn’t long before the farmland that skirted their backyards became Bowlby Street. If you drive north on this street today, it ends when it crosses Fifth Avenue and is stopped by the steep hillside. Follow Bowlby Street down the hill and it ends at Park Avenue, a grassy place that was once a town park bordering the First Baptist Church on West Street.
Celebrating Arbor Day in 2017, middle school students plant 13 DCNR funded trees in Waynesburg parks. One tree was a weeping willow planted in College Park in memory of The Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Another distinctive building that is a familiar site on the North side of Waynesburg was “The Point Auto” General Auto Repair shop located where Route 19 splits into the one way north and one way south streets near the cemetery. Owned and operated by the late George Kelley for many, many years, The Point served as the backdrop for an illustration of a group known as “The Grumpy Old Men” (to which George belonged). This rather unofficial gang of gear heads were and still are instrumental in the staging of the 50s Fest & Car Cruise held annually in downtown Waynesburg the 2nd Saturday in September. The illustration by Colleen Nelson served as the art for the collectible T-shirt sold at the 2012 festival.
There is a meandering neighborhood of smaller houses in this northwest corner now, with houses built to the edge of every steep slope, but back in the day there was a turkey farm right behind Carhart Bowlby’s fancy new home, along with an oil derrick or two. (Lucky for us, some fine photographs remain of these times, preserved by Glenn
Toothman and Candice Buchanan in their book Images of America – Waynesburg.) Walk east along College Park and you will find that Wayne Street curves and loops around campus, along the steep hillside above Purnam Run that crosses town on its way to Ten Mile Creek. Waynesburg University honors its past, which
includes fingerprints still visible on the bricks of its oldest buildings, by allowing incoming freshmen to leave their own mark on a poster of bricks, created each year just for them. The freshmen imprinted on that first poster four years ago when the tradition began will be graduating in May. Their poster will
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be there to remind them of the mark that Waynesburg University has left on them. Over the years, some of the old trees in College Park have been removed and new trees replanted. The Bowlby home is now the Eva K. Bowlby Library, a public library with books and resources for all ages that never loses sight of its original mission to be a children’s library. The downstairs of this fine old building and its newer additions is a magical kingdom of story rooms, play spaces, with art on every wall and books in every nook and cranny. The staff of educator-librarians and dedicated vol-
unteers is there to welcome parents and kids to the wonderful world of childhood literacy. The library has on hand thousands of books that instill a love of reading, from the classics we all remember to the newest educational adventures. So put on your walking shoes and spend an afternoon exploring the woody, once wooly north side of Waynesburg. Pack a lunch and bring your backpack. Your hike just might end at Bowlby Library and it sure is hard to leave there empty handed!
A festive flock of turkeys from a farm just behind Carhart Bowlby's home.
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Specialty Herbal Products
pecialty Herbal Products is definitely experiencing some spring growth! With a target re-open date of April 10th, Specialty Herbal Products will be expanding into a larger store at 1470 East High Street in Waynesburg. That’s in the small plaza across from Pizza Hut. “We’re looking forward to the extra room, and there’s plenty of free parking there as well,” notes Brian King, practicing registered pharmacist and owner of Specialty Herbal Products, Greene County’s only health food store and source for high quality vitamins, herbs, essential oils, organic foods, weight loss supplements, gluten-free options, and many other specialty and natural products. Specialty Herbal Products also sells locally grown/made products: honey, eggs, maple syrup, candles and soaps, and offers discount cards, and a weekly senior discount day (Wednesday). None of that will change, it’s just all happening in a bigger, better location now, and with expanded hours as well! Providing quality products is the promise that Specialty Herbal makes to all of their customers. Quality products begin with superior raw ingredients and a robust quality control protocol at every phase of the manufacturing process, including sophisticated testing procedures and certificates of analysis. “Herbs are so delicate. The health promoting effects of herbs are determined by the soil they are grown in, when they were harvested, and how they are dried and stored. It’s not something that can be
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mass marketed,” Brian explains. “Our motivation is to get people that have tried inferior products that didn’t work to try our products. If you use a quality product and the right dose, you will be more likely to see results.” Specialty Herbals’ newest addition, CBD Hemp Oil, was brought in only after thorough research on its effectiveness, and trustworthy sources. Because the Hemp Oil industry is unregulated, many companies offer cheap products that contain little to no CBD, or their CBD is tainted or synthetic. But the CBD Hemp Oil at Specialty Herbal has been carefully tested for potency and purity. The CBD Oils from Bluebird Botanicals and Can-Tek Labs are quality extracts that not only contain CBD, but also CBG, CBC, CBN, Terpenes, and over 80 other cannabinoids. This full-spectrum “entourage effect” makes these oils much stronger and more effective than single-ingredient CBD isolates in hemp seed oil. CBD Hemp Oil is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including: arthritis, diabetes, alcoholism, MS, chronic pain, schizophrenia, PTSD, depression, antibiotic-resistant infections, epilepsy and other neurological disorders. “As a pharmacist for 40 years and a health food store owner for 25 years, I have never seen a non-prescription product have such a positive effect on people,” Brian says. Specialty Herbal will continue operating in its downtown location and plans to only have 2-3 days of down time for the move, re-opening tentatively on April 10, 2018 at the new location.
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Southwestern PA Judo
outhwestern Pennsylvania Judo was founded in 2008 with the goal of sharing our love of traditional Kodokan Judo with our community. The owners and instructors are Pamela and Robert Russell. Mrs. Russell is a native of Carmichaels and holds the rank of YoDan (4th degree black belt). Mr. Russell holds the rank of SanDan (3rd degree black belt). SWPA Judo follows the traditions and principles of Jigoro Kano’s Kodokan Judo. According to Professor Kano, “Judo is a teaching for life itself and with it we learn to overcome the pitfalls and obstacles of everyday living”. So, What Is Judo? Judo is a Japanese martial art and an Olympic sport practiced by millions of people worldwide. It is an excellent form of physical activity and competitive sport suitable for men, women, boys and girls of all ages. The Japanese word “Judo” literally means the “way of gentleness”. Judo was founded in 1882 in Japan by a young scholar named Jigoro Kano (1860-1938). Judo derives its roots from Jujutsu’s ancient combat techniques. Professor Kano saw the value of physical exercise and mental discipline that jujutsu could provide and wanted to incorporate it into the newly emerging Japanese public educational system. However, jujutsu had many dangerous techniques which were not suitable for practice as a sport, so Jigoro Kano adapted and transformed it to develop “Kodokan” Judo and today Judo is a part of the physical education programs for Japanese and in many other school students around the world. Kodokan Judo is based on two key principles: “maximum efficiency, minimum effort” and “mu-
tual welfare and benefit”. Its aim is to teach how a smaller and weaker person can subdue a larger and stronger opponent by efficiently using one’s own strength. Mutual welfare means both practitioners will benefit equally. Today’s modern Judo has changed little from Jigoro Kano’s days. Modern Judo combines techniques of Olympic Judo and traditional Judo; with training for developing young and future champions while emphasizing the main goal of traditional judo which is character perfection and through the study and practice of the art of throwing, immobilization techniques, and submission techniques such as chokes and arm locks. All these techniques are taught and practiced safely for both recreational and competitive members. Master Kano died before he could realize his dream to see Judo accepted as an Olympic Sport. In 1964, Judo was officially accepted into the Olympics. People practice Judo to excel in competition, to learn self-defense, to get into and stay in shape, to develop self-confidence, and for many other reasons. But mostly, people practice Just for Fun! We invite you to come to our Dojo and try Judo, 1st lesson is FREE. Please visit our Web Site and Face Book page for more information about class schedules and fees.
GreeneScene by Minda Adams
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EQT REC Center
he EQT REC Center is a great source of pride and community within Greene County. The facilities are home to quality, technologically advanced fitness equipment and programming that provides recreational activities and sports for all ages; they offer something for everyone. These state-of-the-art programs and equipment draw members not just from Greene County but from the surrounding counties as well. Greene County Memorial Hospital Foundation, a registered non-profit 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to provide the community with programs that emphasize healthcare, funded the EQT REC Center. The Center was built to meet a need for recreational sports and fitness facilities in the area. The $8 million REC Center’s focus is providing a positive impact on the local economy, while bringing together local neighbors for Recreation, Education, and Community. The EQT REC Center has been flourishing since it opened its doors in November 2017. The 60,000-square-foot EQT REC Center boasts a basketball court with bleachers; a synthetic turf indoor soccer field with batting and pitching tunnels that can be lowered onto the field; an elevated walking track; a climbing wall; a fitness center; a game room with air hockey and pool tables, an art room; and community rooms that are used for classes. The community rooms can also be rented out for special occasions. The Center also has
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a Kids’ Zone which offers babysitting for children 6 weeks to 12 years for members participating in onsite activities. There is also a wide variety of programs available at EQT REC Center. Their programs include pickup pickleball and volleyball; youth volleyball and basketball clinics; flag football for youth and adults; self-defense seminar; group exercise; personal trainers and more. EQT REC Center is also a Silver Sneakers partner, including a line of health and fitness classes built for seniors. This summer, EQT REC Center will be hosting summer camps for area youth ages 5-13 years. These summer camps are open to both members and non-members. The summer camps will begin June 4 and run until August 24. There are both basic day camps and specialty camps. The day camps are offered in 2-day, 3-day, and 5-day packages. The specialty camps are 5-day only and include a Science & Adventure camp and a range of sports camps – soccer, basketball, volleyball, and wrestling. The Science & Adventure camp, much like the regular day camps, runs every week throughout the summer. The sports camps work on a rotating schedule, with each week focusing on a different sport. “We want the REC Center to be a home away from home,” says General Manager Mia Matos. “We offer a lot of family and community programs. We also strive to make sure that members and their families have the ability to play on the courts and
2018 • GreeneScene Magazine
field, and not having our spaces scheduled every minute of the day. “ “ EQT REC Center is a member of the EXOS family of wellness centers. It utilizes the celebrated EXOS approach centered on delivering measurable results by way of personalized programs. The EXOS approach is based on four pillars: mindset, nutrition, movement, and recovery. All employees at the Center are part of the EXOS team and have been hand-selected to create a welcoming, fitness-focused environment with a supportive atmosphere. They have received specific training through EXOS to better serve the Center’s members. If you would like to see what makes the EQT REC Center stand out above the rest, try it for free with their one-day free gym pass for first-time guests. For more information visit the Rec Center’s website at eqtreccenter.org, check them out on Facebook @eqtreccenter or call 724-627-2739.
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Christian Sandbox Preschool
he Christian Sandbox Pre-School is now accepting applications for open half day and full day spots. The full day Sandbox runs 5 days a week from 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. There are 2-day, 3-day and 5-day options to choose from: Tuesday/Thursday, Monday/Wednesday/Friday, and Monday – Friday. The half day Sandbox offers 2-day and 3-day options: Monday/Wednesday 12 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. and Monday/Wednesday/Friday 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Scholarships for all pre-school classes are available through the Community Foundation of Greene County. For more information about scholarships, please visit http://www.cfgcpa.org/pre-kindergarten-scholarships/. The Christian Sandbox Pre-school is located in the First Baptist Church at 303 W. High Street, Waynesburg, PA. They will be holding an Open House on Sunday, April 8 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information about available spots or enrollment, call 724-627-6444.
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Waynesburg Memorial Sales
aynesburg Memorial Sales has been creating quality monuments for the tri-state area since 2004. Mike and Brenda Pikula and Chase and Ashton Shaffer bought the memorial business 3 years ago from close friends. They pride themselves and strive for the business to always be known for its efficiency and wonderful customer service, providing personalized services, quality work, and fair prices. “We purchased the business as a family and plan to keep it family-based. Our family has a personal touch on every aspect of the business from design to installation in the cemetery,” Ashton says. Their caring and professional team offers a wide variety of services to assist customers during their time of need. A few of the services offered include monument design and installation, laser etchings, granite/bronze vases, pet memorials, corner markers, memorial benches and ceramic cameos. Ceramic cameos are a simple and unique addition or update to any monument. These cameos are ceramic portraits that attach to granite and can be purchased and added at any time. It’s a great way to honor a family member or update the look of a loved one’s memorial. They also offer monument restoration and cleaning which can include correcting shifted memorials, pouring a new footer, fixing the stone, and cleaning the monument. Pre-planning services and in-home consultations are also available. Their design program allows them to work up a custom
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design that suits your needs – it even allows you to see what the memorial will look like in a cemetery setting. “We develop relationships with our customers, getting to know them and their loved ones. We even keep in touch afterwards, sending various forms of correspondence,” Brenda adds. “We at Waynesburg Memorial Sales understand the importance of a smooth step-by-step process for each family’s individual needs.” You can learn about Waynesburg Memorial Sales and their team by visiting their website waynesburgmemorialsales.com.
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G ree n e Sce n e of the Pa st
he Eva K Bowlby Library on West Street has a wonderful story to tell, a story I had the pleasure of doing research for by – what else? – going to the library! There in the reference section, I found the neatly typed musings of the very admirable May Phillips Clovis. May kept excellent notes from her years of good deeds with the Waynesburg Women’s Club, as she and the community worked together to build the children’s library of her dreams. “Miss Hazel Shultz, a friend of my children’s second grade teacher, had studied children’s literature at the University of Colorado.” Mrs. Clovis was president of the women’s club when she asked this progressive teacher to speak to the group over tea. “So eloquently did Miss Shultz present the value of good books for children, I determined if I were ever in a position to start a library I would do so.” That chance came two years later when Mrs. Clovis became the Sunday school superintendent of the Junior and Intermediate Departments of the First United Methodist Church. She talked her pastor into helping organize a committee of three to lay the groundwork for a library. Shortly thereafter, “the church trustees revealed to us Miss Nellie Donley had left a bequest of $100 to start a church library… We were now able to order our first books.” Fundraisers were theatrical and fun, planned over chicken dinners and of course, tea. Teachers recruited student-actors; moms and dads got in-
volved. On April 13, 1943, the committee put on two plays, adopted from popular children’s books of the day. The first play performed was Skippack School by Marguerite de Angeli, a book that is still being read by the children who visit Bowlby Library. On play night, more than 54 kids and adults were part of the show and $88.40 was taken in donations. By May, the First Baptist Church joined the project as the library took shape. The Nellie Donley Children’s Library opened in the main Sunday School room of the Methodist Church on May 29, 1943 and Mrs. Clovis writes: “I can still see the first child as she walked over to the desk. It was Vaughn Howard (now Mrs. Jack Wilson) and the first book she charged was Skippack School.” In the beginning, the library was open on Saturday and moms were the librarians and storytellers, “sometimes paying baby sitters to stay with their own small children.” Membership was confined to kids from those two churches but it wasn’t long until “other children were invited to borrow for a rental fee of five cents a book.” The thirst for good reading included fathers, mothers and grandparents, Mrs. Clovis notes. “It was Joe Headlee who breezed into the room, plunked his book down on the desk and said ‘My father says if you have any more books like this one, send them along!” By September the library was drawing rave reviews from the community at large as other churches pledged their support and joined the cause. Members went to Sharpsburg Library to get ideas and were advised to make the superintendent of schools a trustee “when we would start our campaign to become a public library for children.” With $900
in funding from the school district, the county commissioners and the Boy Scouts, May Clovis’ dream of a public library for children was about to be born. Permission to move the library from the Methodist Church was asked for and granted, but the name Nellie Donley was left behind. By February 20, 1944 the constitution was drawn up, with representatives from St. Ann and First Christian Church added to the board, joining the 20th Century Club and the WCC. There were books to buy and a librarian to pay. These were war years, so members focused on house-to-house fund drives. Ten dollars gave businesses and organizations one vote in the Children’s Library Association and some organizations went to friendly war to out-give each other. When the American Legion gave “the magnificent sum of $200, not to be outdone, the Elks club did the same.” When Harry Freeland, president of The People’s National Bank, now First Federal offered three, and then later four rooms on the second floor of the bank rent free, “we were elated,” Mrs. Clovis reports. The library’s 400 books and furnishings from the Methodist Church were moved along with the library cards of the 493 kids who came to borrow and read. On June 4 officers were elected, trustees put in place and on June 23 the Waynesburg Children’s Library was dedicated at the courthouse. For the next 13 years, kids would trudge upstairs to enter the magic kingdom of children’s literature, with a fine view out the windows of General Nathanael Greene saluting them from the top of the courthouse. Furniture, equipment, chairs and desks were donated from schools and private homes, bookshelves were made by “manual training teacher Mr. Ross and his boys before he left for the war.” First librarian Mrs. Glenn Arnold was paid $40 a month. When Mrs. Charles (Mollie) Smith took the job in December the pay was raised to $60, then eventually to $75 when story hour was added to her duties. Eighth graders joined high school volunteers to help out after school and the committee continued to put on plays to wow the community and bring in funds. Mrs. Clovis reports that They Loved to Laugh by Kathryn Worth was “easily the most popular book at that time among teenage girls.” Library hours were Monday, Wednesday and Friday 3:30-5:30 p.m., Saturday morning and sometimes Tuesday 4-5 p.m. for story hour and Saturday afternoon 1-4:30 p.m. Children came from miles around to use the library when their parents came to town to
by Colleen Nelson
Executive Director of the Eva K. Bowlby public library, Kathy McClure, holding the Childrens Book "Skippack School." Still a hit today!
shop; teachers from rural schools could take ten books out every two weeks as the collection grew. Membership drives continued annually and extra cash was quietly banked to pay for a building. Then, in 1957 the will of Eva K. Bowlby was read. It bequeathed the use of her home and property on North Richhill Street so long as it continued to maintain a children’s library. It also provided for growth, maintenance and upkeep with the net income from a block of stock in the Universal Cyclops Steel Corporation. Was this bequest a total surprise? “Not really. It was the kind of thing Mrs. Bowlby would do. Each membership drive she’d given a little more than most but a modest sum.” But for years she’d been a worker with children in the First Methodist Sunday School and a member of the Greene County Mother’s Assistance board. “She must have been quietly watching our progress. …She could see with a gift such as hers what the future of the library could and would be.” A year of painting, remodeling, building shelves, putting in a central column and tailoring the check out desk to fit the space was followed by the hefty job of moving 9,000 books with the help of “high school boys with George Bercik directing and supplying the trucks.” On Sunday, November 9, 1958 the Bowlby mansion was dedicated as the new home of the Waynesburg Children’s Library and a plaque in memory of Carhart, Eva and their grandson Ray Bowlby Connor was presented. It would not be until 1970 that the library renamed itself the Eva K. Bowlby Public Library, with books, educational materials for all ages, a youth room upstairs and a staff of dedicated workers and volunteers to serve everyone, but especially the children of Greene County.
If you have an interesting old photo from the area you’d like to share, just send it to: GreeneScene of the Past, 185 Wade Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370. Or email to: info@greenescene.com with GreeneScene Past in subject line. The GreeneScene Community Magazine 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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DOMICILIARY CARE
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niting adults with caring families, Domiciliary Care is one of the best public service programs in the area – and one you have probably never even heard of. “It’s a really great program that is not available in every county,” Cindy Kopanic, Dom Care supervisor, asserts. “But it’s hard to get providers because very few people know about it. Tara and I put in lots of legwork to get the word out. Most of the providers come into the program through word of mouth.” The Dom Care program has been operating for over 30 years in Fayette, Greene, and Washington Counties. The program provides quality care and housing for individuals age 18 and over who are unable to live independently due to frailties of age, physical and/or mental impairment. These individuals must not require skilled or intermediate nursing or hospital care on a 24-hour basis. Dom Care providers provide care in their own home, offering a warm atmosphere and a feeling of family not often found in other living situations. “Dom Care is unique because care is given at a provider’s home. It’s similar to foster care, but for adults. We have families that take the consumers on vacations and outings,” Cindy says. “It’s important to get good matches for people and we try to match people up by their preference. We like to a have a nice variety of providers to create the best matches.” The Southwestern Area Agency on Aging, Inc. is searching for caring, understanding, & patient individuals to become certified Dom Care providers. There is an urgent need for Dom Care providers in Greene County, as only 2 of the 50 homes in the tri-county area are located in Greene County. “People that live their lives here want to stay in the area. They don’t want to relocate somewhere else. We want to be able to offer more homes in the area so that they don’t have to leave,” Cindy adds. Dom Care providers offer services including: providing room & board, taking care of laundry, cooking meals, and making sure consumers get to doctors appointments and day programs. “We work with the prospective providers and help them through the process. You’re never alone, there is always assistance,” promises Tara Kelemen, Dom Care provider specialist. To become a Dom Care provider, there are certain requirements that must be met: you must be at least 21 years of age, complete an application through the agency, a face-to-face meeting, and a home
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inspection. You’ll need to provide various references, complete a background check and physical, and a few additional tasks. Once everything is complete, another face-to-face meeting will be held to go over training and complete a second
home inspection. The homes and providers are certified, with inspections every 6 months to make sure they are following program regulations. “We always have someone in our office 8:30am to 5pm, Monday through Friday, to accept referrals,” Cindy assures. “And referrals come from everywhere – homes, hospitals, loved ones, and the clergy.” Once a consumer referral has been made, a case manager is assigned to the referral and a face-to-face visit is arranged to explain the process. “Every referral is assigned a case manager that will follow you through the process,” Tara says. “The entire program is voluntary. We don’t force people into our program and they’re free to leave. We usually try to show people two homes to give them a choice. We’ve even offered trial visits to consumers for 24-48 hours,” Cindy states. “What makes it successful is that we can can apply for a supplement through the Social Security Office, which allows the resident to receive $1184 a month. Of which, $989 goes to the Dom Care provider and $195.30 is retained by the consumer as a personal needs allowance. That spending money is more than they would get at a personal care home and is a very nice benefit.” If you are interested in becoming a certified Domiciliary Care provider or want to refer someone who might benefit from these services contact: Southwestern Pennsylvania Area Agency on Aging Domiciliary Care Program at 1-800-4115655. Cindy Kopanic can be reached at ext. 4617; Tara Kelemen at ext. 4612.
BOWLBY BITS April 8-14 is National Library Week, an annual celebration of the life-changing work of libraries, librarians and library workers. YOGA CLASSES - Beginners Yoga class will be held 3 times a month on Sat. @ 1pm. Cost $30/3 classes. 4th Sat. is "Happy Hour Yoga" for a $5 donation. STORY CLASSES - During National Library week, story classes will focus on the PA One Book, My Cousin Momo. Each child in attendance will receive a copy. Preschoolers* ages 3-4 Tue. @ 10am ages 4-5 Tue. @ 1pm Toddlers* ages 18-35mos. Thurs. @ 10:30am Stories Under the Moon* ages 3-6 Wed. @ 5pm Baby Lapsit* Birth-16mos. Thur. 1pm Weekend Readers* ages 3-6 Sat. @ 10:30pm CREATIVE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS – Thurs., Apr. 5 @ 5pm. Cost $20. This month: Butterfly Paper Sculpture in a shadow box. LEGO BRICK MASTERS - Sat., Apr. 7 & 21 at 11am Ages 3 & up. READING COMPETITION CLUB – Tue. Apr. 10, @ 6pm. Review Apr. 17 & 24 @ 6pm. Grades 4-8. TEEN ADVISORY GROUP - Teens 13-18 meet every Tue. @ 6pm. CODE SQUAD - Students age 6-12. Classes every Thur. @ 5-6pm. MOVIE NIGHTS @ THE LIBRARY – Every Wed. @ 6:00pm. FREE popcorn and beverages! April 4 ~ Ferdinand April 11 ~ The Greatest Showman April 18 ~ Paddington April 25 ~ Paddington 2 KNITTING CLUB - Meets 2nd & 4th Fri. each month. Apr. 13 & 27, 10am-12pm. WON'T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR? – Sat., Apr. 14, 11am-12:30pm. A unique story & activity class focused on Mister Rogers Neighborhood and Daniel Tiger. Each child will receive a free copy of My Cousin Momo. AFTER HOURS: A NIGHT FOR NEIGHBORS - Come dressed in your favorite cardigan! We are honoring Mister Rogers this evening with a friendly cardigan competition Fri. Apr. 20, 4-8pm. BOWLBY ROCKS! – Sat., Apr. 21 @ 12-2pm. This month: flowers, insects & Mother's Day! Bring two clean rocks. BOWLBY BOOK CLUB – meets the 2nd Mon. of every month @ 6pm. Book discussion on Amor Towles, "A Gentleman in Moscow." APRIL IS NATIONAL POETRY MONTH - Enter the library's Annual Poetry Contest! Submit your poems until Apr. 21. Winners will be announced at the Poetry Reading & Awards Ceremony on Mon., Apr. 30, @ 6pm. GreeneScene Magazine •
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A LEAGUE FAMILY AFFAIR by John Greenlee
or the Washington-Greene Adult Baseball League (WGABL) it’s about family. During the league’s 2017 season there were several players that were more than just ‘baseball’ family. The league boasts several brother and father-son sets.
33 and Brandon #25, along with the Douglas brothers Chris #34 and Sean #32.
The Orioles, 3 time +25 League Champions, boast a set of three brothers - the Madars, Adam #24, Kevin #20, and Tim #21. The brothers had never played on the same team until joining the WGBAL.
The league had three ‘father-son’ sets playing ball this past year. Marauder Dan Rush is pictured with his Devil Ray son Jake. Devil Rays Mark Dicks and son Josh were the first part of a "7-5-2 double play'' this past season. The Devil Dawgs’ have Rick Owens and son Rick Jr (not pictured).
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McCracken Pharmacy
riginally established in 1961 by Jack McCracken, this local drug store has progressed in all the right ways over the years, changing where change was needed while keeping personal service a tradition; very much in keeping with the slogan, “Yesterday’s Service, Today’s Technology.” Long-time pharmacist, Scott Adamson, who began his relationship with McCracken when he served an internship in 1992, purchased the pharmacy in 2013, when Jeff McCracken retired. With the same philosophy of balanced progression and tradition, Scott has continued the work of keeping McCracken Pharmacy at the forefront of technology and modern convenience while maintaining comfort and personal attention to every customer. The last couple of years have brought many easy-to-see changes as McCracken Pharmacy underwent a total re-branding, introducing a new logo design, color scheme and complete remodeling of the building’s interior and exterior. Located at the gateway to downtown Waynesburg, the remodeling project enhanced both the McCracken building and the neighborhood around it. With carefully chosen colors and style that represent McCracken’s unique brand of “Yesterday’s Service, Today’s Technology” the look certainly says it all. Scott is quick to point out, however, that the longevity and most valuable asset to McCracken Pharmacy is what you find inside the building – the people. “We’ve
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The Knights, the current +25 League Champions, have two sets of brothers; the Dittmers, Chris#
John Greenlee, President of the league and coach/manager of the Devil Rays is shown with his brother Bob. Bob is a volunteer assistant coach for the 2017 WPIAL 2A Champions, Jefferson-Morgan High School Rockets. The league offers the opportunities for ball players of varying adult ages to play baseball. They are always looking for new players and teams (with managers).For more information, check them out on Facebook @washingtongreenebaseball, visit their website washingtongreeneadultbaseballleague.com, or email John (gbjbgl3@windstream. net) or Jeremy (jtanthony10@gmail.com).
been fortunate to be able to maintain a relatively large staff, and to keep a high caliber of people who are consistent and compassionate with our customers, I’m proud to work with the people here,” Scott emphasizes. There are four pharmacists on staff, along with 8 additional techs and support personnel serving McCracken’s customers. That’s how they continue to provide “Yesterday’s Service” you can’t find anywhere else. As for “Today’s Technology,” McCracken Pharmacy has always been a leader in the latest tools and expertise to deliver accuracy and efficiency in filling prescriptions and serving all needs of customers. That never changes. Just as McCracken was among the very first pharmacies to even use computer technology back in the 1960s, and later the most innovative dispensing systems, our local pharmacy today is helping to pioneer new methods of packaging designed to facilitate and improve accuracy in daily dosing of medications. “We offer innovative blister and strip packaging systems that clearly label and separate medicines for daily doses and help patients and caregivers stay informed and in control,” Scott explains. Particularly useful for those who take multiple doses and meds, this new system is easy to follow and much appreciated by customers. Just one more example of how our iconic “corner drug store” with all the charm of Yesterday’s Service is still a leader in Today’s Technology.
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"Church on the hill." The Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Waynesburg, also first brick church. Built in 1832.
First Presbyterian Church on College Street. Built in 1926.
he history of higher learning in Waynesburg owes much to the Presbyterians and their love of education that dates back to the first Scottish settlers who came to America. The Calvinist doctrine of the early church taught that man was born in sin after the fall of Adam and a merciful God foretold that a select few would find salvation. Followers also believed in classical education, learning Latin and Greek and critical thinking. To this end members worked hard to establish schools to educate ministers to go forth and do missionary work on the Western Frontier. By 1702 there was a presbytery of four churches established in Philadelphia. As ministers pushed into the wilderness they met Baptists and Methodists who were part of the “Great Awakening” of 1730. Hard working Christians on the frontier were contending that Christ died for all and anyone could attain salvation, not just a chosen few. Revivals drew thousands and were emotional affairs led by hellfire and damnation preachers. Those who “got religion” at these sometimes weeks-long gatherings “shook, fell down, danced and testified” – and started their own churches. It wasn’t long before Presbyterian ministers were holding revivals of their own; much to the consternation of churches backs East that maintained more staid and determinist views. But the goal to educate never wavered. A presbytery was formed in the Redstone settlement that is now Brownsville and by 1792 there was the Jefferson School where Canonsburg is now. The Second Awakening of 1800 helped establish the breakaway Cumberland Presbyterians when the Synod of Kentucky’s Transylvania branch produced this new offshoot in 1810. It grew rapidly and was soon ministering its way north. By 1831 the Kentucky General Assembly sent preachers back to Ten Mile country to establish churches and hopefully build colleges. The Waynesburg College Story by William Dusenberry notes that by 1832 they had preached in Waynesburg and with a newly formed congregation of 22 built a church on the hill by the town commons on what would become Wayne Street.
When it came time to build a college, the Cumberland Presbyterians found what they needed in Greene County. The Greene Academy, started by the Episcopal in Carmichaels in 1810 was already training men, and by 1837, women to educate, minister and do business with a classic education that included science. Greene Academy educator, Reverend Joshua Loughran became the first president and pastor of Waynesburg College in 1849, the same year the Presbyterians came to town and built their own frame church on Morris Street. The first on-campus school building was the church on the hill in 1850, as Hanna Hall was being built. For the next 55 years both branches of the faith kept their own churches as the college grew and prospered. The Cumberland congregation built a brick church in 1868 on High Street where the Family Dollar is now; by 1880 there was a Presbyterian Church on Church Street. When the churches united in 1906, the High Street church became a Sunday school and both congregations worshiped on Church Street. When the Downey House fire of December 23, 1925 destroyed that building, the foundation stone for the new church on College Street had already been laid. The First Presbyterian Church was dedicated October 31, 1926 and it was quite a sight to see and hear – deigned by architects Smith and Walker of Boston, with a pipe organ funded in part by the late Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish Presbyterian who left a six million dollar endowment for church organs in his will. The organ was refurbished with a new console about ten years ago, according to organist Nelson Fox, who takes turns every other week with pianist Sara Christner to make a joyful sound on Sunday morning. The organ’s been tuned just in time for Easter services. Pipe organs are becoming an instrument of the past now that electronic keyboards have arrived, so if you want to hear some old fashioned music, call Nelson and find out which Sunday he’ll be playing. The First Presbyterian Church is a fine example of religious history that exemplifies faith in the power of education – and good music! - to benefit us all and make the community stronger for it.
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Carmichaels Service Center
armichaels Service Center is celebrating its ten-year anniversary in 2018! But the know-how backing the Service Center is more than just 10 years; it’s 24 years of local experience, selling and repairing vehicles in Carmichaels and the surrounding areas, building trust and relationships. That trust is why first-time customers continually become long-term customers time and time again – they know the efficient, quality, friendly and honest service offered at the Carmichaels Service Center can’t be found elsewhere. Mary and Michael Lewis got their start in the auto care business in 1994 when they opened Michael’s Auto Sales in Carmichaels “with 3 cars and 2000 square feet.” After 14 years offering auto sales and service at their location on Rt. 21, Mary and Michael purchased a second location to add to their growing business. Carmichaels Service Center, located in the heart of Carmichaels at 203 S. Market Street, allowed them to expand their auto repair facilities to include a wider variety of services. “The addition of the Service Center goes well with what we already do at Michael’s. It allows us to provide additional services to a wider audience,” Mary explains. Carmichaels Service Center is committed to providing you with the highest level of service and offers a full range of services: brake work and flush, general maintenance, oil changes, alignments, computer issues, engine repair, transmission repair, chains, and tire installation and repair. The Service Center stays current with changing car technology and has mod-
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ern equipment to investigate and repair issues for all makes and models, old or new. For most people, auto maintenance and repair is not a fun or convenient experience. The Service Center is committed to making the process as easy and enjoyable as possible for their customers. A recent remodel has transformed the Carmichaels Service Center into a state-of-the-art repair shop, providing even better customer service and ease of mind for their customers. The waiting room was remodeled and improved for comfort, with complimentary coffee available for customers. Inside the shop, new equipment allows for efficient and comprehensive service work. Much of the equipment has been replaced or upgraded; this includes new lifts and a new alignment rack. The Carmichaels Service Center also offers additional support to assist in paying for auto repairs with their Auto Repair Financial Programs. The Service Center’s mechanics are highly skilled and have a combined experience of 60 years, as well as a strong desire to help. Most of all: they love cars and care about making sure that customer cars are fixed quickly and correctly. The Service Center employs a staff of two repair technicians, including manager Chris Smith. Chris has been the manager for two years. During October, Carmichaels Service Center participates in “Brakes for Breasts”. “Brakes for Breasts” is a unique fundraising campaign that auto repair shops across the country participate in to help raise fund for a breast cancer vaccine. As part of the
fundraiser, Carmichaels Service Center is giving away free, quality brake pads or shoes. The customer only pays the labor and any ancillary parts costs. The shops then donate 10% of the brake job to Dr. Vincent Tuohy and the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Research Fund to assist in the vaccine research. Ben’s Auto Parts in Masontown donates the brakes to the Service Center. For more information on this fundraiser, visit brakesforbreasts.org or contact the Carmichaels Service Center manager, Chris Smith. The Carmichaels Service Center is open six days a week: Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm and Saturdays 9am-12pm. For more information, call 866-998-6734, visit their website at www.carmichaelsservicecenter. com, or find them on Facebook.
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Bortz Chevrolet
veryone in Greene County is familiar with Dick Bortz – his caricatured face has graced Bortz billboards for years, inviting customers to the dealership with a smile. Through his hard work and personality, Dick Bortz grew the dealership from a one-man operation, started almost 48 years ago, to a dealership selling over 600 vehicles a year. And not only is today’s Bortz Chevrolet a leading area dealership selling new and pre-owned vehicles, it is a preferred service, parts and collision center for car owners of many makes and models. From the beginning, Bortz Chevrolet has always been family-owned and operated. Today, Dick’s son Rich co-owns the dealership with his father and serves as General Manager. Rich literally grew up in this business. You could find him, as a 10 year old boy, washing cars and helping out in any way he could. He spent his teens working in detail and in parts, later transitioned to sales, eventually becoming Sales Manager. Such a background gave him experience and knowledge with most of the aspects of the business. Dick’s daughter, Debra Shelestak, also grew up familiar with the life of a family- operated dealership and today serves as Marketing Manager for Bortz Chevrolet. Her son, Jonathon, also joined the family business as a teenager, detailing cars before working his way up to sales. Today, Jon is the Finance/Insurance Manager for Bortz. To successfully grow a business for nearly 50 years certainly requires hard work and dedication; and according to Debra, Dick Bortz possesses another characteristic that has garnered the trust of this community and thousands of loyal customers over the years. “He is certainly passionate about everything automotive, but it’s his compassion that really stands out. He would do anything for anyone. If there was a customer in our service department that had to leave for some reason while their car was being worked on, he would just let them borrow his car. He’d let people borrow his motorhome for vacations,” Debra recalls, smiling. “I can’t go anywhere without someone telling me something wonderful that my dad did for them. To his customers, he always says ‘We’re here because of you’.” That attitude is evident in Bortz’ official mission statement: “Visitors to our dealership are treated as honored guests in our home – every day, every time, without fail. No exceptions!” Nowhere is that more obvious than in the Service Department at Bortz, which has repeatedly received superior ratings as a Chevy and Subaru Service Department in this region, thanks to their outstanding work and attitude. Such ratings from the manufacturers are based on customer feedback, and it’s not hard to find happy Bortz customers who are willing to brag. Randy Coss, a long-time Bortz customer, bought his first car there in 1978. “I’ve been with them ever since. I tried other dealers but always end up back at Bortz. Their deals could never be beat,” he says. “And their Service Department… I’d say it’s the best Service Department I’ve ever dealt with.” Bortz Sevice Department technicians have
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over 150 years of combined experience in the automotive service industry, with up-to-date training on today’s complex systems for all makes and models. Their experience promises that your car will receive the best care while being serviced with genuine Chevrolet and Subaru parts that are guaranteed for one year or 12,000 miles. And customers receive the best care while they wait in a pet-friendly, clean and comfortable waiting room, with current reading materials, free wifi and drinks, and a children’s activity area. Bortz even offers a free local shuttle service that will you take you home or to work (and bring you back) while your car is being serviced. “Service makes the dealership go ‘round; it keeps it going. The success of a business relies on how you treat people. We work very hard to build relationships with the customers so they know they can rely on us, always,” Debra says. “We focus on providing great customer service, before, during, and after the sale. The way our Service Department handles things after the sale is exceptional,” Rich emphasizes, “and that can only be accomplished when you have exceptional people providing it.” Dave Cumberledge, Service Manager, and Patty Miller, Service Consultant, have the experience and aptitude to do it. Both with over 30 years employment at Bortz, they know the job well. “We take care of the customers as we would want to be taken care of. We’re like a big family – we treat the customers as family and make sure the process is comfortable for them,” Dave says. Once again, we see the Bortz mission statement in action, and that “Dick Bortz” philosophy alive and well, every day. That type of environment speaks to the longevity that Bortz employees enjoy. The majority of personnel are long-term. Four of the service technicians have worked at Bortz for over 30 years. Mark Goodwin, Sales Manager, has spent the majority of his automotive experience at Bortz as well, “When you’re good at your job, and your job is good for you – it’s going to be a long term thing,” Mark explains, “Our customers know that same feeling.” “I’ve shopped there for about 35 years,” says Don Chappel. “It’s the people that work there that keep me coming back. I have the highest praise for Dave and Patty and the rest of the shop. They take care of your car. It’s easy to get an appointment and they always do the work right the first time, they
never make you bring it back for the same thing twice.” Don adds, “They make it easy to buy or lease, also. I tell them what I want, we never have to hassle over the price, we come to an agreement easily and quickly.” Likewise, the primary goal of the Bortz Sales Team is to thoroughly understand a customer’s needs and wants when they are choosing a car. They are far more interested in fitting the car to the customer than the other way around. If they don’t already have the vehicle that you’re looking for on their lot, Bortz will find it elsewhere. They often go above and beyond, trading with another dealer to get the particular car you’re looking for. Special orders are always available for those wanting something even more exact. “We’re adept at making things happen for our customers. We take the time to cater to their different needs,” Debra says. Jim Milinovich, a recent first-time customer, shares how both the Sales and Service departments helped them through a difficult car situation. “We purchased a new Subaru back in October from Bortz. From the beginning it had some kind of issue with the engine that could not be resolved under factory level. Bortz did not just leave the problem to us, they facilitated a trade on the Subaru for a new Chevy Equinox. They gave us a really good deal on the trade so we had no losses and the new Equinox has been working great.” Jim adds,” While our car was being serviced, Bortz made sure that we never went without a vehicle. They gave us a loaner, and once when they didn’t have one on hand, they rented us a car from Enterprise at no cost to us. We’re very pleased with the excellent service and the concern they had for fixing our problem. They’ve been wonderful!” Mary Lee Headlee says “I’ve purchased Subaru’s from them for quite a few years. Everybody down there is excellent, especially the service after. They’ve always taken care of everything for me. I can’t say enough about the service, it’s the best I’ve ever had,” she exclaims. “I’ve driven Subaru’s for longer than they’ve even sold them, but if I was looking to trade in my current car, I’d probably switch makes and stay with Bortz.” For more information or to view their inventory, visit bortzchevy.com or call 215-234-3617 (Sales) and 866-726-0742 (Service).
Dick Bortz, founder of Bortz Chevrolet.
Rich Bortz, General Manager and co-owner, standing next to a new Chevy Colorado.
Bortz Chevrolet Service Center waiting area. GreeneScene Magazine •
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Barnhart’s Honda Polaris
Edward Balazick shows off a new 2018 RZR XP Turbo.
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t’s bright, bold and definitely BIG! Barnhart’s Honda Polaris Dealership, just off I-79 in Ruff Creek, PA, is over 11,000 sq. ft. of sheer power and excitement inside. With both Honda and Polaris, Barnhart’s has the ultimate ride for everyone, for work or play, for fun or serious competition, for cruising on the highway or touring the tough terrain off road. 2018 promises to be a great year. “People are definitely ready for spring,” says Sales Manager Edward Balazick,“We’ve been extremely busy all through March.” Polaris continues to lead the market in sideby-sides, and 2018 models are bringing a new level of excitement. “Really, whether you are working them hard or riding for recreation or racing, these are the vehicles of choice for many people these days,” Edward adds. For extreme off-road experience, the new 2018 RZR XP Turbo will deliver with the most powerful RZR engine available from the factory. However, the machine showing off the biggest changes for 2018 has to be the all new Polaris Ranger XP 1000. The all new Polaris Ranger XP 1,000 is a totally new machine that is at the same time more rugged and more refined. “This is the real standout for Polaris’ new features in a utility side-by-side, it’s just really awesome. The changes were ‘ownerinspired’ – they got the feedback from owners and made the improvements that people wanted,” Edward explains. It has the most powerful engine in the industry and class-leading 2,500 pound towing capacity; more cargo space than ever before with 1,500 payload capacity and conveniences like more and bigger tie-down points, stake pockets and built in dividers. It now has a massive front bumper with integrated accessory mounting points and a full-body skid plate and much more…literally over 100 improvements resulting in a tougher, stronger
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more durable machine with a smoother ride than ever before. “When it comes to innovation and brand new features, Honda’s been busy, too,” Edward notes, “The 2018 Honda CRF250R has major upgrades everywhere…everything you need to get to the head of the pack and stay there - electric start, a dualoverhead-cam-engine with a true dual exhaust system for more power and a higher redline. It’ll do 900 rpm higher than the previous model. It’s a whole new bike...has a titanium gas tank, handles better than ever, this one will take you to the podium.” One thing that hasn’t changed for 2018 - and likely never will change – is the reason customers keep coming back to Barnhart’s Honda Polaris – and that’s the trust, good will and superior service they receive, no matter what they’re buying. Whether you’re coming in to see what’s new, looking for a trade or needing parts and service for what you’ve got, we’re going to treat you the same every time. It’s a team tradition here,” says Craig Greenwood, Service Manager and co-owner with Yvonne Barnhart. . “I started as a customer when I got my first motorcycle at Barnharts…I was just six years old,” recalls Edward with a grin. “Now I’m proud to be on the team at a dealership where they treat customers with integrity. Here they are straight forward and up front, no double talk. And one reason they’ve been in business so long is because it’s not all about the sale – it’s about the experience every customer has before, during and after the sale. When you treat people right AND make sure they’re getting the best bottom line – you both win.” With Barnhart’s commitment to straight deals and the best bottom line, you can’t go wrong. Stop in and see the exciting new line-up, shop for some new gear, get ready to ride! That’s what it’s all about.
GreeneScene Magazine •
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2018
Waynesburg Milling Company
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favorite shopping destination for locals and out-of-towners, Waynesburg Milling Company on South Washington Street in Waynesburg is preserving the traditions of the past, while moving boldly into the future. That’s one reason why the story of this iconic Greene County business has been selected to be included in the Western Pennsylvania Foodways Archive, a special project of Chatham University’s Center for Regional Agriculture, Food and Transformation (CRAFT). CRAFT provides resources, learning opportunities, and technical assistance on food systems, regional food cultures, and sustainable economies to individuals, organizations and businesses. The Archive is being created from oral histories, interviews, recipes, images, and writings documenting the stories of this region, using food as a tool to uncover a meaningful past. No wonder Waynesburg Milling Company has become a focus subject. Waynesburg Milling Company can proudly claim one of the longest histories of any business in the region, having first received public mention in a newspaper article from July of 1886, titled, “A Feather in Greene County’s Cap and a Good Thing for the Farmer”. Providing a local market for grain farmers, the mill produced flour. At full speed it had the capacity to fill 120 barrels per day (that’s 24,000 pounds of flour!) using 600 bushels of wheat a day. When the mill was sold in 1898 new equipment was installed to increase the mill’s capacity to grind more than 4500 bushels per day and it continued operation as the Waynesburg Flouring Mill Company. At Chatham University, one project within the archive is called “Babka and Beyond,” an effort to collect in-depth stories about how grains - from crop fields to baked bread - contribute to larger themes of identity, community, and social capital. “We aim to better understand how people interact with the food system through the most basic of needs: bread. Bread defines community - through the type of grain used, the method of preparing and cooking, and perhaps most importantly, with whom people break bread,” said Alice Julier, director of the program. Charles Blair purchased the mill in 1928. “He was my great uncle,” explains Jeanette Lindsay, “and it has stayed in the Blair family since that time.” When Jeanette and her husband Don Lindsay purchased the mill in 1993, she became the third generation Blair to own and operate the business.
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From 1937 to 1941 the mill produced both flour (mostly sold under the Gold Bond label) and livestock feeds as well. Answering demand from local livestock farmers in the early 1940s, the mill ceased flour production to concentrate on feed exclusively, introducing its own trademark brand, Wayco Livestock feeds, in 1945. Wayco feeds are still in production and in demand today with proprietary formulas for livestock including horses, cattle, sheep, swine, goats and poultry. Maintaining the same quality controls, Wayco feed is now manufactured off-site, a change that occurred when the historic structure that housed Waynesburg Milling Company was lost to fire in 2001. Though the building and milling equipment was a complete loss, the spirit was not. The business continued almost without interruption. In less than a week, Waynesburg Milling Company opened in a temporary storefront location while a new 6,000 sq. ft. facility with warehouse, showroom and offices was being constructed on the original site. The tradition of Waynesburg Milling Company lives on. As always, the business has adapted to meet consumer demands. Today Waynesburg Milling Company sells livestock feed, farm & garden supplies, and offers an impressive selection of pet supplies and feeds, bird feeders and garden décor, and everything equestrian including tack and vet supplies. It’s a true “Country Store” where traditional and educational toys and games abound, and a corner of the showroom is devoted to country and western décor, crafts & dry goods, some hand crafted by local artisans. “We buy from local producers for several lines of merchandise, like our fresh ground cornmeal and honey products,” says Jeanette. Just like the headline described it over 132 years ago, Waynesburg Milling Company remains a “feather in Greene County’s cap and a good thing for the farmers” and today…there’s even more in the store.
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Spring is here – time to clean!
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Danielle Nyland
he chill in the air starts to fade and evening light gets longer. Everything starts getting green and colorful. Then it hits. The spring cleaning urge has taken hold of you. You buy more cleaning products and think about the big cleaning jobs ahead. Even if it wasn’t on your mind at first, you see more advertisements about cleaning products and magazines you read include articles and tips about cleaning. The community clean–up events begin. Spring cleaning is believed to have roots in multiple cultures, mainly Iranian, Jewish and Chinese. In Iran, the New Year begins on March 21 (vernal equinox). The two-week celebration is a time of renewal. Iranians began cleaning their homes in preparation of the New Year celebrations so that even their homes will be refreshed. In Jewish culture, Passover takes place two weeks after the Jewish New Year and marks the exodus of Jews from Egypt. The unleavened “matzah” bread that the Jewish slaves in Egypt were given was adopted as a symbol of their slavery. It is the only bread allowed during Passover. To prevent an insult to God, homes were scoured before Passover to ensure yeast bread was completely removed. Passover generally falls around the time that spring is beginning, and so it is thought to have ties with spring cleaning, as well. The Chinese also clean their homes in anticipation of the New Year. They sweep their floors and clean their homes to remove accumulated bad luck from the previous year.
In addition to these traditions, people also used to heat their homes with coal, wood and oil and used candles for light. These heating and lighting methods often left homes dirty during winter, because everything was locked tight to keep the winter chill away. Springtime allowed families to take all the furniture and cloth outside to air out and be cleaned, while the inside of the house was scrubbed down. Some people believe that spring cleaning may even have some roots in biology. As the amount of light decreases in the winter, our bodies produce more melatonin, which often causes sleepiness. As the days grow longer again, we begin to get more sunlight and produce less melatonin and giving us more energy to tackle those unpleasant chores. Spring cleaning is a ritual that many people feel compelled to complete. The GreeneScene wants to know – are you one of those people? Take part in our March/April poll on our Facebook @GreeneSceneCommunityMagazine page for a chance to win a t-shirt or camper mug.
Growing in Greene Pt. 1 Trivia WINNER
Congratulations to Mary Lou Roscoe of Prosperity. She won the first of two $50 winners! 18
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2018 • GreeneScene Magazine
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Blueprints
n July 2016, Jamie and her family welcomed the arrival of their second child, a baby boy weighing less than 2 pounds. Because he was born prematurely, he spent 48 days in the NICU, fighting for his life. This was an incredibly stressful and scary time for Jamie and her family, but happily, she was able to bring him home in September. According to Jamie, one of the biggest blessings that helped her through the ordeal was the Blueprints WIC program. WIC provides breastfeeding support, nutrition education, supplemental foods, and health care referrals for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women, and to infants and children until the age of five. Like many people who come through Blueprints’ door, Jamie’s knowledge of WIC was limited. “I was nervous for our initial appointment because I was afraid the staff at the WIC office would be cold, unfriendly or even mean. I could not have been more wrong! My first brief experience with the staff at the Washington WIC office started when I sought breast-feeding support from the lactation consultant and ended up in the WIC office by mistake. The women were so kind to me that it put my mind at ease for our appointment with WIC a few days later.” When the day came for the first appointment, Amanda, WIC Nutritionist, welcomed them back into her office like an old friend. “From the minute she called us from the waiting room, I knew I had wasted my time worrying about cold, un-
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friendly staff,” said Jamie. “She was warm and gave the impression that she genuinely cared about my sons, my husband and myself. She was sweet to my 3-year-old son and seemed like she sincerely cared about my preemie baby and what our family had been through. While she gathered our information, her upbeat and warm personality made the time spent there fun. When it came time to go over the benefits we qualified for, she was thorough and explained things well.” Jamie’s second appointment with WIC did not disappoint, either. “When I took my baby back for our second appointment, I was excited that it was with Amanda again and it was awesome that she remembered details that we had discussed at our first appointment. It felt like visiting with a friend. She really cares about my family, and me, which meant so much to us. Every person we have met at the Blueprints WIC office in Washington has been wonderful, kind and friendly.” The help that Jamie and her family receive through WIC means the world to her. “Every time we use our benefits and I see the healthy food we are able to get because of WIC, I am overwhelmed with what an enormous blessing WIC has been in our lives,” said Jamie. “It is indescribable to know that there are wonderful people and programs available to help during such a hard journey. I am eternally grateful for WIC and the amazing people I've met through there!”
GreeneScene Magazine •
MARCH / APRIL
2018
Toothman Dental Center
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r. Ingrid Toothman has been back to work since Septeber 2017 after an accident last July with a “bad luck bicycle”, resulting in a broken arm and fractured jaw. “I’m still wearing braces but I don’t have any pain. I’m undergoing physical therapy, also,” Dr. Toothman says. The property at 801 E. Greene St., Waynesburg, has been an enjoyable home for Toothman Dental for more than 30 years, welcoming new and current patients of all ages. The Dental Center tucked away in this delightful cottage provides care for all phases of general dentistry using the latest technology, including digital x-rays. Additionally, the facilities have an on-site dental laboratory, allowing for same day repair and reline of dentures, as well as complete custom dentures – custommade for you right on site. And not only is the property home to quality dental care, it also houses a very special, and quite famous, guest. Since January 2000, the Tooth Fairy has taken up residence in the grandfather clock that stands in the upper floor of the building. Every night, she takes flight and leaves through the balcony door, coming back in the morning to sleep the day away, when young children get to – very quietly – take a quick peek as she slumbers. Dr. Toothman began her career in dentistry early, working alongside her father at his dental lab in Pittsburgh. She went on obtain degrees in dental assisting and dental hygiene, as well as Bachelor
L-R: Tiffany Gardone, dental hygienist; Donna Donley, dental assistant; Brenda Tennant, front desk/receptionist; Dr. Ingrid Toothman.
of Science degrees in the Health Related Professions from the University of Pittsburgh. She was then accepted into the University’s Dental School and earned her DMD in 1982. Dr. Toothman then moved to Greene County after being assigned to the Bobtown Community Health Center upon graduation. She worked there until she opened her own practice in 1984. Often asked about her last name of Toothman, she laughs and answers: “My maiden name is Schmidt. I was already a dentist when I moved here. Very soon after, I met my future husband I really wasn’t going to change my name—I was going to be ‘Dr. Schmidt’ for the rest of my career. But I thought ‘Dr. Toothman’ was better…” To schedule an appointment, call (724) 6275399, where the warm, welcoming and experienced staff will be glad to help - “Give us a call to schedule an appointment and leave your smile to us!”
Stain Blaster Steam Cleaning
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hen Adam Theys was laid off from his job at an Indiana coal mine, he took a position as a carpet cleaner. He found that he really enjoyed the work and loved meeting and interacting with the customers – something he hadn’t been able to do while working in the mine. Little did he know that he would eventually start his own steam cleaning business once he moved to Greene County. Adam moved to Greene County in 2007, where he went to work for Emerald Mine as a miner operator and EMT. He is an avid fisherman and hunter and loves to be outside, enjoying nature, especially with his family.
MARCH / APRIL
2018 • GreeneScene Magazine
Adam, his fiancée Amanda, and three children: Rain – a senior at Jefferson-Morgan, Ayden – a freshman at Jefferson-Morgan, and 17-month old Kyler live in Jefferson, PA. The position at the mine didn’t last, so he went back to something he really enjoyed – carpet cleaning. And so, Stain Blaster Steam Cleaning was born. Stain Blaster Steam Cleaning, established in December 2017, is an insured and licensed steam cleaning company that provides a range of different services for both residential and commercial clients. Not only can they clean your carpets using the Rotovac Carpet Restoration System, they can also clean tile and
grout, hardwood floors, concrete, and other hard surfaces. Upholstery cleaning and fabric protection are also available. Stain Blaster uses Rotovac rotary extraction equipment to ensure that your floor and upholstery receive the deepest clean. The Rotovac 360° cleans from all directions with hundreds of cleaning passes. Its high torque motors ensure consistent quality throughout the entire cleaning job. It also restores matted traffic areas and removes tough stains and shadowing that a manual extraction wand often leaves behind. Additionally, stain and odor removal are available to eliminate those tough stains and odors from pets, smoke, and more that just won’t go away. Stain Blaster also offers flood clean up and restoration, with air movers available for lease to help aid in drying and
mold and mildew prevention. Pressure washing is also available. Stain Blaster is here to serve you and make your life easier. They are glad to offer free estimates. Military and first responders receive a 15% discount on services; commercial discounts are also available. They even have a variety of specials throughout the year to help you save money, such as their current “Spring Cleaning” special that runs through May: 30% off upholstery services with any carpet or tile service. Stain Blaster Steam Cleaning’s work is backed with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee and their service is always prompt and efficient. For more information, call 724-998-7450, visit their website http://stainblaster.online or find them on Facebook @ stainblaster.
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Greene: Earth and Sky
By Pete Zapadka
Flora, fauna and a passion for the environment are on display at Enlow Fork
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other Nature is unequaled as an artist, and her work especially is vivid in the spring. Gentle rains team with warming sunshine to awaken the earth, bringing forth a bounty of trees, grasses and wildflowers, with colors and poise that draw the stare of any eye. Few scenes can surpass the view of a floralcovered hillside adorned with the distinctive blue and white of the dainty blue-eyed Marys. Add the burning color of fire pinks, the eye-catching yellow of coltsfoot, the creamy white triple petals of the trillium along with many more, and springtime evokes a fond memory not easily forgotten. And while Mother Nature does the heavy lifting when it comes to the work of spreading the spring color across the land, she gets plenty of help promoting her gallery in state Game Lands 302 in the northwestern part of the county, not far from Wind Ridge. There, at least one woman has been a mainstay of the annual Enlow Fork Wildflower Walk since its inception in 2001. She can't be missed as she works tirelessly behind the main tent. Attilia Shumaker, a former teacher who lives near Sycamore, long has been a catalyst and a proponent of the annual event, which invites visitors to the rural valley to enjoy Mother Nature's splendor and to savor and learn about the world surrounding us. This year, the Enlow Fork Wildflower Walk, presented as usual by the Wheeling Creek Watershed Conservancy, will be held Sunday, April 29. The fun and camaraderie are held along the banks of the Enlow Fork of Wheeling Creek, and it's a day to celebrate not just the flora, but the fauna. “We not only do the wildflowers, but birds,” said Shumaker, who added that the event has evolved over the years. “We started trying to get some other things involved, the stream studies . . . fish, we've had people who were experts in dragonflies, butterflies.” The morning begins with a flock of birdwatchers “around 7:30 or quarter to 8,” she said. Most visible among them are the members of the Ralph K. Bell Bird Club of Greene County. The guided wildflower walk gets started “between 10 and 10:15. But visitors can do independent tours any time” with the help of a student-designed book available at the main tent. And there's more. “You always have those people who come hungry, so we always have at least something they can purchase . . . so they have something to eat,” Shumaker said. “We always have water, too.” There are other books for sale, a ticket auction for prizes, and plenty of free handouts. Those who attend should dress comfortably for the weather and the conditions. Some years, it's been hot, but only on a few occasions has the weather been inclement. “Quite often, they'll be forecasting rain,” Shumaker said. “I always tell them, 'God's not going to let it rain because it's my wildflower walk day.' And 99 percent of the time, it hasn't rained. We might get a little bit of a sprinkle here or there, but we've
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never had a bad day, not until at least 2 o'clock when most everybody was out of the woods and ready to go home anyway.” There was the late afternoon a few years ago when volunteers had to hold down the tents during a windstorm. Nearby longwall coal mining over the years has threatened the stream and valley, and the plan once to build a dam to flood the valley was overturned by passionate naturalists and neighbors, such as Shumaker. “I am involved with anything that has to do with science, and involved with anything that tries to destroy what God gave us,” said Shumaker, who spent 29 years teaching in West Greene. Unlike the floral masterpieces that seem to appear magically each spring, it takes some legwork by Shumaker and her helpers to put together and publicize what has become such a popular event. Directional signs have to be set up at key intersections, volunteers have to be sought, and she stays in contact with the state Game Commission, which oversees the Enlow Fork property. “We've been fortunate enough that they allow us to use the field for parking and so we can set up tents,” she said. “Of course, I have to always get a portajohn. That is kind of an important part for those people who are going to spend somewhere between five and six hours.” Those who plan to attend should be on the lookout for more than what's expected. There's always a good chance for a surprise, perhaps two. “A couple of years ago, we were standing down by the tents for a little bit, and we looked up,” she said. “There was something flying in the sky, and we thought, 'There goes a hawk.' We looked again and saw it was an eagle. I had never seen an eagle. I knew they're around, but I'd never seen one. The eagle flew right over our heads. That was pretty cool.” And it's an example of what can be seen in an eye-opening visit to Enlow Fork. Be sure it's on your calendar. Please do not pick the flowers and other plants at Enlow Fork, unless directed by the staff to pull and discard the invasive garlic mustard. For directions and more, go to http://enlowfork.tripod.com. Pete Zapadka is a Greene County property owner and a retired local news editor at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He can be reached at pzapadka@yahoo.com.
A young visitor stoops to get a close-up photo of a patch of blue-eyed Marys.
The unmistakable white trillium are widespread at Enlow Fork.
Blue-eyed Marys, with their distinctive blue and white, are widespread in the valleys surrounding Enlow Fork.
The blazing color of a fire pink stands out in the spring surroundings at Enlow Fork.
A patch of blue-eyed Marys stand among the green leaves of jewelweed and below a colorful fungi.
The welcome area at Enlow Fork with its display of several tents where food, water, books and other handouts are available.
GreeneScene Magazine •
MARCH / APRIL
2018
Sp ort S ho rt s
Manure Management Workshop
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If you pasture any livestock or apply manure to your land, this is for you!
f you own any livestock that pasture at your place, or if you use any manure to fertilize your garden or fields, you need to read on. The Greene County Conservation District is hosting FREE Manure Management Plan Writing Workshops. The first workshop will be held from 6-8pm Monday, April 9 at the Greene County Conservation District, and the second will be held from 1-3pm Saturday, April 14 at Harvey’s Aleppo Grange. The third workshop will be held on Monday, April 16 from 6-8pm at the Cumberland Township Building. The fourth workshop will be on Thursday, April 21 1-3pm at the Greene County Conservation District Office. Any farm in Pennsylvania that applies manure to the land - whether you fork it on there, spread it with a machine, or let your livestock drop it directly in the pasture - is required by the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to have a written manure management plan, regardless of size of the property or the operation. This is really nothing new; these requirements have been around for over 40 years, beginning with the passing of the Clean Water Act in 1972. Wherever livestock (cattle, horses, goats, swine, fowl etc.) graze on grass, in any size field, large or small, is considered “land applied manure”. Most of these pastures will also have “Animal Concentration Areas” (ACAs) which is where animals congregate and release lots of manure. The importance of a written manure management plan becomes even more evident when you see these areas. The good news is, it’s nothing to fear, and it
MARCH / APRIL
doesn’t cost anything. For the past few years, the Greene County Conservation District has sponsored these FREE workshops, to help local gardeners, farmers and livestock owners write a plan and come into compliance with these regulations. Most of the time, it is relatively simple and they will walk you through the process. Remember, this is not just for Dairy Farmers or beef cattle operations. You may have a horse or two that runs pasture at your place – this is for you. If your kids have a 4-H project with goats or sheep that are pastured and dropping manure on the land – this is for you. If you haul in horse manure from your neighbor’s place and spread it on your cornfield or vegetable garden – this is for you. Realistically, anytime you apply any manure to your ground, you need to have a management plan. “The DEP’s goal is not to go out policing people about this, what they really want to do is educate everyone about the impact of livestock on the land, and help people manage it properly,” said Karlie Wright, agricultural technician with Greene County Conservation District. While the workshop is free, REGISTRATION IS REQUESTED. For more information, call Karlie or April at 724852-5278. Financial and other support for this workshop has been provided by the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts, Inc., through a grant from the state DEP under Section 319 of the Clean Water Act, administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
2018 • GreeneScene Magazine
by Jason Tennant
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GAVIN TEASDALE MAKES HISTORY
efferson-Morgan’s Gavin Teasdale ended his high school wrestling career in historic fashion, winning his fourth PIAA State Title! From the Giant Center in Hershey, in his three bouts leading up to the finals, Teasdale won by technical fall over Midd-West’s Avery Bassett in the First Round, then picked up an 11-4 decision over Kenny Kiser of Saegertown. In the semifinals, he won by major decision, 14-5 over AJ Burkhart of Athens. The 126-pound State Final against Saucon Valley’s Josh Jones wasn’t a typical Gavin Teasdale bout. After a scoreless first period, Jones opted for the top position to start the second and Teasdale was able to score an escape. It was Teasdale’s choice for the third period and he chose bottom, once again scoring an escape. The two escapes accounted for all of the scoring in a 2-0 decision for Teasdale. Teasdale became a 4-time State Champion and finished his career with a record of 162-2. Immediately after the win, Teasdale spoke of his focus this year on being a “3-position” wrestler and in his words, “Giving the guy no chance to beat you in any position.” That focus paid off to cap what has been a roller coaster season for Teasdale. Entering his senior year, Teasdale sported an undefeated career record of 122-0. The goal was not only to win a fourth state title, but also to finish his high school career undefeated. The latter goal was derailed at this year’s POWERade Christmas Tournament in Canonsburg when he lost a 4-3 decision in the Finals to Wyoming Seminary’s Beau Bartlett. He would lose another bout on February 3rd to Weirton’s Caleb Rea at the Buckeye Local Panther Classic with some contributing circumstances such as Teasdale fighting an illness and bumping up to the 132-pound weight class. On that particular loss, Teasdale said, “I don’t make excuses, but my body just gave out.” Teasdale then focused on the only thing he could focus on, winning the state title. So with so much on the line, how does a young guy like Teasdale prepare for such a moment? “I treated it as any other tournament honestly,” said Teasdale. “When I come in, my whole goal is wrestling the same here as I would at a local tournament or a home match in my gym.” Any other tournament? Hardly, but the mindset certainly worked for Teasdale. Any state title is obviously a huge accomplishment. Winning four puts a wrestler in very elite company. Teasdale is only the 13th wrestler in the 81-year history of the PIAA Tournament to win four titles. The accomplishment has its roots in Greene County as the first to do it was James Conklin of Waynesburg in 1943. Through the first 52 years of the tournament, only four had accomplished the feat. The list grew by 5 from 1990 –
1996 and the last four have been added in the last seven years. Remarkably with Conklin, Jefferson-Morgan’s Cary Kolat (who won his fourth in 1992), and now Teasdale, Greene County has three 4-time champs! No other county has more than one. That also makes Jefferson-Morgan the only school in the state to produce multiple 4-time champs. “We’re really happy about it,” said Jefferson-Morgan Athletic Director Scot Moore. “(Gavin) works hard. We’re just tickled to death.” There’s another name on that list that stands out for Teasdale, Derry’s Jimmy Gulibon who won in 2012. The two trained together years ago from the time Teasdale was 10 years old and in his final bout, Teasdale wore the same headgear that Gulibon did when he won his fourth. “It was handed to me in seventh grade when he won his fourth state title,” said Teasdale. “He told me, ‘it’s your turn to accomplish it now!’” Mission accomplished.
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GreeneScene Magazine •
MARCH / APRIL
2018
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4 Seasons Lawn & Garden and 4 Seasons Rental
Seasons Lawn & Garden and 4 Seasons Rentals on Rolling Meadows Road in Waynesburg, continue to offer area residents the best choice in lawn & garden equipment sales, service, parts, and rentals. Customers can find the best prices and quality here with brands like John Deere, Stihl, Simplicity, Honda Power Equipment, Husqvarna and coming in April Kioti Compact and Utility tractors. “Kioti is one of the fastest growing brands in North America ranging from 25 to 100 horsepower and we are very excited to have Kioti join our line up says Murray.” With trusted names like these, 4 Seasons Lawn & Garden can ensure that their customers have the best equipment available. “It’s all about value,” says owner Murray Hoy. “We try to sell brands that last longer, hold their value better, and provide our customers with a more pleasurable experience while using it. We have found that these product lines do all of that and more, we are very proud and committed to the brands we sell.” Selling the best products is only part of 4 Season’s winning equation; backing that up with the best service in the area keeps their customers coming back. 4 Seasons has always focused on the service department by providing training for our service techs, and upgrading the tools and equipment necessary to increase efficiency and speed up the service process. 4 Seasons not only services the brands they sell, they also offer service for many other brands as well. “We are very proud of our ability to not only get your equipment repaired quickly, but make sure we get it fixed right the first time,” says Murray. A good price on equipment is certainly a draw, and coupled with the superior service described above, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to buy, and buy again, at 4 Seasons Lawn & Garden. “We really do enjoy a lot of return customers here,” Murray explains, “Our business is about relationships and my staff is trained to make our customer’s experience here both valuable and enjoyable. Our professional staff is the
best, I am very proud of them. People appreciate dealing with someone who has the knowledge and experience to answer their questions, find what they need, and fix their problems. We can do that.” There are countless jobs, big and little, that go with every house. When you have the right tools for the job, it makes things much easier. For the times when you don’t have what you need, 4 Seasons Rentals, a sister company of 4 Seasons Lawn & Garden, is just the place to get you equipped and on your way, without the expense of having to purchase something that you may only need to use for one job. If you didn’t know that, you’re not alone: “A lot of people still don’t realize that we rent equipment - renting equipment has definitely become more popular,” Murray affirms, adding, “We have a variety of things that the average person might not have, things like a trencher, log splitter, wood chipper, garden tillers, stump grinder, air nailers, power drills, floor sanders, carpet shampooers, jackhammers, pressure washers moving equipment, concrete power trowell, saws , trimmers, power tampers and so much more.” Some of the most popular rental items we offer are our tents and event needs. 4 Seasons has a variety of tent sizes and styles to choose from. “We have you covered whether your party is only a few people or a few hundred - we provide the tables and chairs, we deliver and set everything up for you, we have a dance floor, and we now offer all the linens you’ll need, as well,” says rental manager Courtney Hursey, “We have set up for birthdays, graduation parties, retirement parties, weddings - just about any occasion you can think of, and the calendar is already filling up. Call now for any event you have coming this spring, summer or fall.” 4 Seasons Lawn & Garden and 4 Seasons Rentals are both located at 600 Rolling Meadows Road, here in Waynesburg for your convenience. Call 724-627-6153
Murray Hoy smiles out from his distinctive 4 Seasons Lawn & Garden Pick-up.
MARCH / APRIL
2018 • GreeneScene Magazine
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American Legion Post # 330 Contributes to 4-H Safety Program
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embers of the James Farrell American Legion Post #330 of Waynesburg recently presented a monetary donation to Christina Becker, 4-H Extension Educator and Safety Day Coordinator in support of Progressive Agriculture Safety Days. Progressive Agriculture Safety Day is a oneday program for 3rd grade Greene County students. It has been conducted annually since 2008. More than 350 students from five county school districts will attend the May program at the Greene County Fairgrounds. At Safety Day, hands-on lessons engage the participants to learn about safe practices related to
fire, food, traffic, wildlife, bike and water, as they visit different stations. Safety professionals also provide presentations and emergency vehicles are on display. Each student attending Safety Day receives a bag full of helpful information and safety items including a home smoke detector. The items in the take-home bag are donated to the program or purchased with donated funds. Businesses or individuals interested in contributing donations or funds toward the Progressive Agriculture Safety Day may contact Christina at (724) 627-3745 or cxy2@psu.edu. Sponsorship recognition is available.
Members of American Legion Post 330 present a donation to Christina Becker, 4-H Extension Educator and Safety Day Coordinator. (L to R) Mike Belding, Harold "JR" Harter, Jr., Christina Becker, Mike Gasior, Mike Walker
Co o l at Sc h o o l
by Danielle Nyland
WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA VOLUNTEER TRIP
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n December 16th, West Greene students and teachers were in Arlington National Cemetery, laying wreaths on veteran’s graves to honor and thank them for their service. They were taking part in the annual event, Wreaths Across America. After seeing an ad last fall for Wreaths across America, West Greene Student Government Advisor Sheri Garlick reached out to James Lang of VFW Post #4793 to ask if they would be interested in sponsoring a student government trip to Arlington. The VFW, along with the American Legion, the Cooties, and Pam Snyder donated the funds that made the trip possible. “Anytime the students want to honor veterans, we’re going to jump on it. We were pleased to do this,” states Lang. Early on the morning of December 15th, the students, consisting of 4 seniors and 3 juniors, boarded a bus and were on their way to Arlington, VA with teachers, Ms. Garlick and Mr. Matt Rychtarsky. After they arrived at the hotel, they ate lunch and headed out to explore Washington D.C. Their first stop was the Metro, a first for most of the students. They rode the Metro to the Holocaust Museum where they spent about 4 hours amongst the United States official memorial to the Holocaust. “The seniors had just finished studying the Holocaust in class. The best part of it all was the looks on their faces as they made connections,” says Garlick. They left the Holocaust museum and headed to the adjacent National Mall to see the monuments at
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night. They stopped first at the Washington Monument, and then went on to see the Lincoln Memorial, the World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, and the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial, freshly decorated with wreaths. They then stopped by the White House to finish their sightseeing tour. Before heading back to their hotel, they visited Trump International Hotel where, thanks to Garlick’s friendship with the top chef, they were able to enjoy a dessert buffet with reserved seating around the Trump Christmas tree. The next morning, they woke bright and early and headed to Arlington Cemetery. They encountered intense traffic and tons of people, all waiting to assist with Wreaths Across America. Large trucks would pull up, open their doors and unload the boxes of wreaths – enough wreaths to cover the approximate 400,000 graves in Arlington. Military members were there to assist with handing out the wreaths and provide directions to the volunteers. “I was just glad to see the shear amount of people that went. To see how much American citizens respect their veterans. That’s what was the most striking to me,” student Peyton Blake says. After assisting with placing the wreaths, the students were able to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where groups of Boy Scouts had worked to complete the main tomb. And then it was time to head home. “None of the students had been to D.C. for this type of event before. They got to do things that they
probably would never do… It was a fabulous trip,” asserts Garlick. West Greene is hoping to turn this into an annual event for their student government. They L-R: Robert Cole, Peyton Blake, Lexie Mooney, Michele Deems, Linzee Stover, are also in the process of Steve Cursi, Sheri Garlick, Bailey Machesky, Mike Gasior, James Lang. placing flags in every hallway of the school so that no matter where you are when the Pledge of Allegiance begins that day, there is a flag. Garlick adds, “I have a lot of ideas. I want to do a whole bunch of stuff with the students. I want them to experience as much as possible. I always tell them there are two things no one can take away from you – your experiences and your education. I want them to have a well-rounded education, and for that we need to leave the classrooms sometimes.”
West Greene students at Arlington National Cemetery, placing wreaths.
The students enjoyed a late dessert at Trump International Hotel.
GreeneScene Magazine •
MARCH / APRIL
2018
Hunter Trapper Education
Quilt Raffle The Waynesburg Senior Center will be raffling off a Williamsburg embroidered queen size quilt. Tickets are $2 each and the drawing will be on Friday, May 11. The
quilt is hand quilted by the quilters at the senior center. Call 724-627-6366 to purchase tickets.
Cache Me if You Can! The Greene County Department of Recreation has launched it's 2018 "Cache Me If You Can" — geocaching game, which involves eight recreation sites across Greene County, including: Mon View Park, Greensboro, PA Wana B Park, Carmichaels, PA Greene River Trail, trail head in Millsboro, PA Greene River Trail, Cruible, PA Greene County Airport Greene County Tennis Courts, Waynesburg, PA Greene County Fairgrounds, Waynesburg, PA Alpha Aquatics, Waynesburg, PA FMI, call the Department of Recreation at 724-852-5323.
There will be a Hunter-Trapper Education class on Saturday, April 7, 2018 from 9am - 5pm. at Harvey's Grange, 106 Grange Road, Graysville, PA. Attendees must be 11 years old to enroll and have chapters 1, 4, 5, & 9 completed online prior to class. Organized by
Marvin L. Cumberledge, Hunter-Trapper Education Instructor, Pennsylvania Game Commission, District 2-30-1. To register, visit https://www.register-ed.com/ events/view/118245.
WCHS Fundraise for American Cancer Society The WCHS varsity cheerleaders held a t-shirt fundraiser and split the proceeds with the American Cancer Society. The Tshirt was sold through The Locker Room in a variety of colors to represent the cancer of choice and said “Raiders tackle cancer.” They chose to make the donation in honor of Kim Miller, a teacher within the Central Greene School District that was recently diagnosed with cancer.
Annual CSI Camp The Department of Chemistry and Forensic Science at Waynesburg University will host its annual summer Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Camp June 17 - June 22, on the University’s main campus. The camp is open to current high school sophomores, juniors and seniors. The registration fee of $500 includes all meals, housing and activity materials for the six-day camp. The deadline to register is May 7. Students may also apply for a scholarship to help defray the full registration cost. The scholarship deadline is April 9. To register or to apply for a scholarship, visit www.waynesburg.edu/csi-camp. The camp offers students the opportunity to learn from professionals in the field, such as officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the Pennsylvania State Police Department and the Allegheny County Coroner’s Office, among others. Camp sessions will include crime scene processing, forensic drug analysis, fundamentals of fingerprinting and bloodstain pattern analysis, among other subject-specific activities. Waynesburg students who are currently forensic science or criminal justice administration majors assist at the camp by mentoring participating students. For more information, contact Bob Barnhart, admissions counselor, at rdbarnha@waynesburg.edu or 724-852-3346.
CAPTION THIS & WIN!
Poster & Coloring Contest The Greene County Conservation District is holding a poster and coloring contest for Greene County children ages pre-K to 8th grade in celebration of Soil and Water Conservation Week. Entries must be received by Friday, April 6. Call 724-852-5278 for more information. The poster contest is for Greene County students K-8th enrolled in public, private and home schools. 1st place wins $100. Posters created may be completed in school or at home but must be the work of the individual student. Posters should be 14"x22" and should be flat. Entries will be judged on their conservation message (Watersheds: Our Water, Our Home), visual effectiveness, originality and universal appeal. The coloring contest is for Greene County pre-K children. The top 3 entries will receive new bicycles and helmets. Stickers, markers, crayons, etc. may be used on the coloring page obtained from the Conservation District.
MARCH / APRIL
2018 • GreeneScene Magazine
Dennis Householder of Rutan shared this entertaining picture from his Cassyle Valley Farm with the message, "Just doing the feeding at the farm. Thought you might enjoy the pic." We certainly are enjoying, Dennis,
and thought we'd have even more fun coming up with the best caption, so we are inviting all our readers to submit a caption for this picture. We'll share the captions on our Facebook page, and count the likes to choose a $25 winner.
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2018 Brownson House Basketball Champs Waynesburg 4th grade Boys Basketball won their championship game for the Brownson House Basketball League. The team was coached by Head Coach George Taylor and Assistant Coaches, Gerald Baker and Stan Dean. L-R(bottom): Dominic George, Jeffrey Blair, Kory Taylor, CJ Corwin. L-R(top): Ben Horne, Austin Surber, Jackson Dean, Jarius Baker.
LifeSkills Training Receives Donation
L-R: Commissioner Dave Coder; Commissioner Archie Trader; Pastor Richard Berkey, Coalition for a Brighter Greene president; and Commissioner Blair Zimmerman.
The Greene County Commissioners approved a request for $16,000 from the Coalition for a Brighter Greene during their public meeting on Thur., Mar. 8. The request will support the Botvin LifeSkills Training (LST) program that is currently in all 5 school districts for 3rd to 9th grades. LST is an abuse prevention program that provides students with the skills necessary to handle challenging situations through promotion of healthy alternatives to risky behavior.
2018 Beth Center League Basketball Champs
½ Ton of Food Collected for Food Bank
The Waynesburg 6/7th grade Girls Basketball won the championship in the Beth Center League. L-R: Front Row - Kayla Strelick, Emma Kindervater, Chloe Holloway, Lake Litwinovich. The Jefferson-Morgan elementary, middle, and high school students collected 1040 pounds of non-perishable food for the Corner Cupboard Food Bank in Waynesburg, PA. They also donated $250, raised through a Sumo Wrestle Off fundraiser during the middle/high school pep rally. Pictured are students who helped organize the collection: middle school students Catherine Diamond, Finley Kramer, and Maci Marion and elementary students Brenton Barnhart, Andrew Faddis, Alisa Long, Lacey Ryan, Ali Ostrich, Jase Bedilion, Katie Shaffer, and Maryah Demaske. Also pictured is the Sumo Wrestling Team: Mrs. Boyle, Mr. Corbett, Nate Bilonick and Sebastian Jellots. Not pictured: Preston Wood, Jarrett Rush, Ava Bertagnolli and Evan Duke.
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Back Row - Addison Blair, Taylor Sibert, Keelan Sproat, Josie Horne, Jordan Dean, Colleen Lemley. Coaches Natalie Blair & Ryan Litwinovich.
Local Volunteer Fire Companies Awarded Grants Pam Snyder has announced the award of $361,410 in state grants to more than two dozen local fire and ambulance companies in Greene, Fayette, and Washington counties. “Our firefighters and EMS workers put their lives on the line to protect ours,” Snyder explained. “These grants are crucial in ensuring they can do their jobs to the best of their abilities and, in turn, continue keeping our communities safe.” The grants are made possible by the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service Grant Program and can be used for repairing, building or renovating facilities, purchase of new equipment, staff training & certification, or to repay debt related to equipment or facilities. Bobtown Dunkard VFD Ambulance – Fire Company, $11,727; EMS, $7,037 Carmichaels & Cumberland Twp. VFD – Fire Company, $12,649 Center Twp. VFC– Fire Company, $12,096 Clarksville & Community. VFD – Fire Company, $11,543; EMS, $7,037 Crucible VFD – Fire Company, $11,543 Greensboro Monongahela Twp. VFC – Fire Company, $11,543 Jefferson VFC – Fire Company, $12,096; EMS, $6,895
Morris Twp. VFC – Fire Company, $11,727 Mt. Morris Community VFC – Fire Company, $12,096 Nemacolin VFD – Fire Company, $11,543; EMS, $7,037 New Freeport VFD – Fire Company, $11,543 Rices Landing VFD – Fire Company, $11,727; EMS, $7,037 Wayne Twp. VFC – Fire Company, $11,543 Waynesburg Franklin Twp. VFC – Fire Company, $15,000 Allison VFD 2 – Fire Company, $11,911 Brownsville Fire Co. No. 1 – Fire Company, $12,833 Hiller VFC – Fire Company, $14,491; EMS, $7,037 Isabella VFD – Fire Company, $11,543 Luzerne Twp. VFC – Fire Company, $12,280 Masontown VFD – Fire Company, $12,096 Republic VFC – Fire Company, $13,386 South Brownsville Fire Co. No. 1 – Fire Company, $11,994 Tower Hill 2 VFD – Fire Company, $12,096 Denbo-Vesta Six VFD – Fire Company, $11,911 East Bethlehem Twp. VFC – Fire Company, $13,386 Richeyville VFC – Fire Company, $13,017
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2018 • GreeneScene Magazine
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2018
Roman’s Acupuncture & Wellness
“I
believe that everything happens for a reason. If I hadn’t been so sick when I was young, my life might not have turned out the way it has.” This pragmatic philosophy from Stacy Roman not only encouraged the creation and development of her successful business, Roman’s Acupuncture & Wellness Center, but helped shape her life. From about the age of 12, Stacy experienced near-constant colds and flu-like symptoms, chronic fatigue and low white blood cell count. The cause of her suffering was unknown, and went undiagnosed by the legion of doctors she and her parents visited. The consensus of the medical practitioners fell along the lines of “We don’t know what’s causing this, and we don’t know how to fix it. Try something else.” That’s what they did. Her open-minded parents sought the help of an acupuncturist, and Stacy experienced a nearly miraculous recovery of all symptoms. The experience made a lasting impact, igniting a passion for healing that has made Roman’s Acupuncture & Wellness a major center for “alternative medicine” therapies throughout southwestern Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia, and drawing clients from as far away as Maryland, Ohio and beyond. Stacy’s twenty years of experience in health care have earned her a variety of credentials, including being a licensed massage therapist and a licensed acupuncturist. She has received a Health Sciences degree, a Masters of Oriental Medicine degree, is certified in Injection Therapy, is certified in CBD, completed DAN (Defeat Autism Now) training, is a NCCAOM Diplomat, and is a member of AAON and the American Pregnancy Association, specializing in infertility. Clients find effective solutions at Roman’s for many conditions, among them chronic pain, allergies, digestive problems, sleep problems, skin conditions, chronic illnesses like fibromyalgia, diabetes, arthritis, weight loss and aesthetics to name just a few. They are constantly expanding their offerings and have recently included Raindrop Massage, reflexology, and a full CBD clinic. Traditional acupuncture services remain in high demand at Roman’s. In use for, literally, millennia, acupuncture works by helping regulate the flow of a body’s natural energy by stimulating precise points under the skin with special needles no thicker than a human hair. These needles, which are used only once and then discarded to insure sterility, are so thin that they do not even cut the skin to penetrate it as, for example, a hypodermic needle must do; rather, they spread apart the skin cells to allow the needle to do its work. Effective for treatment of chronic pain, high blood pressure, weight loss, stress, infertility and much more, acupuncture is a safe, effective technique, appropriate for all ages. For those among us who may have reservations about needles, needless acupuncture is also available. One of Roman’s specialties is treating infertility with acupuncture. Studies reported by the American Pregnancy Association suggest that the most effective fertility treatments are a combina-
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tion of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and traditional medicines. Acupuncture assists with infertility by increasing blood flow to the uterus, normalizing hormone and endocrine systems that regulate ovulation, regulating menstrual cycle, positively affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis (a key part of fertility), as well as reducing stress and anxiety. Acupuncture can also be used during pregnancy to enhance your health, as well as your baby’s health. During the first trimester, it can help alleviate morning sickness, vomiting, fatigue, and headaches. During the second trimester, it balances the body and can offer relief from complaints such as heartburn, hemorrhoids, sleep problems, edema, elevated blood pressure and weight gain. During the third trimester it prepares the body for labor and can help with sciatica and other pain. It can also help with more serious issues during pregnancy, such as turning breech babies, induce labor, and help control pain during delivery. Roman’s also offers pregnancy supplements and massage. Advanced Allergy Therapeutics (AAT) is offered for those suffering from allergies or sensitivities to harmless substances, food, or stimuli. AAT is a clinically proven treatment that is highly effective in treating many symptoms associated with allergies and insensitivities. These symptoms include: digestive system complaints, respiratory system issues, dermatological conditions, headaches, migraines, fatigue, and more. AAT does not rely on medications, herbal remedies, or supplements but instead utilizes a precision-based acupressure technique to treat the reactive organ systems. The treatment is safe and painless; all ages can enjoy the benefits. Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (MHBOT), also a specialty at Roman’s, is a medical treatment in which a person is exposed to increased atmospheric pressure inside an inflatable chamber. The increase in pressure allows more oxygen to reach the cells in the body, which has many healing and therapeutic benefits. MHBOT accelerates cellular renewal, decreases swelling and inflammation, and increases the body’s ability to fight infections. Used to treat a variety of conditions, the increase in cellular oxygen can be especially beneficial for cancer or stroke patients, and those diagnosed with autism. For those interested in prevention, Roman’s offers Thermography scans. Thermography is a radiation-free screening procedure that uses an infrared camera to study the heat distribution within the body. The results are then sent a medical doctor to be interpreted. They offer a range of scans from simple to complex. There is also a ZYTO Biocommunication
2018 • GreeneScene Magazine
Scan which is a like a “questionnaire to which your body’s data provides the answers.” While your hand is in the special cradle, ZYTO uses galvanic skin responses to judge how organs, glands, and systems are functioning. These responses are used to determine the best products and services to assist in the healing process. CBD infused products are quickly becoming a popular natural remedy and Roman’s offers a full CBD clinic containing sublinguals, orals, and topicals; CBD massages are also available. CBD, or Cannabidiol, in a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the hemp plant. The endocannabinoid system has receptors located in the brain and throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems. CBD interacts with specific receptors to strengthen the immune system naturally; this boost can help your body fight off bad cells. CBD can be used to treat a wide variety of symptoms, such as inflammation, nausea, headaches, pain, anxiety, digestive issues, insomnia, cramps, irritated skin, and more. Roman’s has an array of massage therapies: Swedish Massage, Hot Rocks, Deep Tissue, Raindrop, and Reflexology. Reflexology is a massage that involves applying pressure to key points in the hands and feet that coincide with specific organs in the body. This facilitates healing in those areas by helping the regulation of the body’s energy flow. Raindrop massage uses essential oils dropped onto the spine, combined with massage. This brief overview is just a small sample of the various treatments available at Roman’s. A full homeopathy and herbal pharmacy is available, as well as essential oils, detoxifying footbaths, advanced allergy therapeutics, an infrared sauna, Biomat, yoga classes, and more. With compassionate care for the whole body and mind, instead of masking symptoms, Roman’s treats the source. Roman’s can serve
as your primary care provider at any age; they’ve had patients ranging from eight days to 102 years. “As a result of having health issues early in life, I want to help others heal, as well as prevent health conditions before they develop. With more and more health issues and concerns being diagnosed in today's world, my goal is to offer a relaxing and safe environment to support the community and offer services that allow for healing in the most natural way possible,” Stacy says. To learn more about Roman’s Acupuncture & Wellness Center, call (304) 322-0093, or visit www. romansacupuncture.com.
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Community Bank 2017 Year in Review
s 2017 approached, we had confidence that Community Bank would have opportunities to grow. With that in mind, in 2017, we completed the “Ralph J. Sommers, Jr. Operations Center” in the Evergreen Technology Park in Waynesburg, Pa. We now had a permanent home for our credit, finance, operations, call center, and IT personnel. They had an appropriate, custom designed space that would allow us to service our customers and add staff as needed. We moved into this facility during the summer of 2017. Our discussions with First West Virginia (i.e. Progressive Bank) had been ongoing for some time but quickened in mid 2017. We were able to reach an agreement during the fall of 2017 to combine our banks. This transaction is a game changer for Community Bank, allowing us to add a $350,000,000 bank with an enviable core deposit franchise and a collection of beautiful branches in the Ohio Valley, not far from our existing markets. We should be in a position to close this merger this spring. On the facilities front, with the likelihood of a deal with Progressive growing, we decided in early 2017 to take advantage of a commercial building that we had acquired. In mid 2017, we started work on remodeling our new “Corporate Center”. This two story 22,500 foot facility is conveniently located near I-70 just west of Washington and is almost precisely centered between Wheeling (home of Progressive Bank) and Waynesburg (home of our Operations Center). It is a mere 30 minutes to either location while it is 40 minutes to Pittsburgh or the airport. The Corporate Center will house executives, many of our lenders and support staff, our human resources and retail operations, and our audit and compliance functions. The first floor of the Corporate Center will house our insurance subsidiary, Exchange Underwriters. EU occupied older
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facilities before and their new home will allow them to attract talent and grow. With great visibility and ample parking, the Corporate Center will serve as an inspiring platform for the growth of the Bank. And grow we did! In 2017, we enjoyed strong growth in both loans and deposits. Loans grew some 9% to $735,000,000 while deposits grew 11% to $773,000,000. Of particular note, commercial loans, our strategic focus, grew 20% in 2017. In 2017, we contributed to the growth of our region by answering the needs of our customers. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve our customers. Our insurance group, Exchange Underwriters, had one of its best years ever. The new office space in the Corporate Center should give EU a significant boost and momentum and space to grow in the future. It will also allow EU to be housed for the first time in the same building as many of the Community Bank sales people, which can only build synergy and cross selling. As always, Community Bank was extremely active in helping our communities. Our popular charitable giving program, “Community Bank Cares”, now has made over 1807 donations to over 654 different local charities and churches. You may recall that “Community Bank Cares” is centered on the charitable wishes of our customers, as we invite our customers to designate the charity or church of their choice for a charitable contribution by the Bank in their honor. For this program and other community efforts, in 2017, Community Bank received one of the first ever “Corporate Citizenship Awards” by the Pittsburgh Business Times. We look forward to the future with hope and confidence and remain dedicated to providing outstanding customer service to our wonderful customers.
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Behm’s Auction and Real Estate Services
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Douglas Education Center
ouglas Education Center (DEC) offers a Commercial Driver’s License program designed to provide short-term training for long-term success. DEC’s CDL Program, which is currently enrolling; prepares, trains and develops new drivers with the knowledge and skills to prepare to take the Class “A” CDL with tanker endorsement examination. Students develop marketable skills, such as proper shifting techniques on different manual transmissions, safe driving techniques on highway, rural and intercity roads, backing maneuvers, and proper pre-trip inspection techniques. They are also taught how to effectively read maps in relation to a commercial vehicle, accurately complete drivers’ daily log books and create viable trip routes. Upon successfully obtaining their drivers’ permits, students will receive hands-on driving time in a commercial vehicle and will become skilled with manual transmission shifting at DEC’s training facility before heading out on the road.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 11 percent growth for heavy and tractor-trailer drivers through the year 2022. “The transportation industry is experiencing a significant skills gap, and we need to act aggressively to address this issue,” said Jeffrey D. Imbrescia, Chief Executive Officer / President at DEC. “There is no question that trucking companies need more qualified drivers to ensure their continued success, and the continued success of our economy. We believe this program will play a key role in helping to fill that need. This is a win-win for employers and Pennsylvania’s working families.” DEC’s CDL Program is a 210-hour certificate program designed to provide short-term training for long-term success. Interested students should contact DEC’s Admissions Department to begin the enrollment process at 724-684-DOUG. For more information about DEC’s Commercial Driver’s License Program, please visit www.dec. edu.
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Auctioneer Jim Behm of Behm's Auction Services.
n March 31, literally hundreds of buyers will flock to Greene County Fairgrounds for the Annual Spring Equipment Auction by Behm’s Auction Services. A tradition that continues to grow every year promises to be better than ever for contractors, farmers, excavators, other service companies and individuals looking for the right deal. A similar event will be held in West Alexander Fairgrounds off Rt. 40 on April 28. So you have TWO chances to
deal! If you have equipment to sell, contact Behm’s Auction Service now for the sale most convenient to you. Quality consignments are still being accepted through March 30 for Waynesburg and April 27 for West Alexander. If you are looking to purchase, start this Saturday with the sale at Greene County Fairgrounds. For more information call the office at 724428-3664 or304-845-2666 or visit the website at www.behmsauction.com.
GreeneScene by Jennifer Porter MARCH / APRIL
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Washington Health System Greene
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he past two years have brought about many progressive developments to WHS Greene. These significant improvements have increased the quality of the facility, technology, and patient care procedures. For those that depend on WHS Greene for their healthcare needs, it means knowing that their needs are being taken care of by a dedicated team that has access to state-of-the art equipment, with the utmost thought to safety and efficiency. “We will continue to invest and make changes to provide great patient care to the residents of Greene County,” states Terry Wiltrout, President of Washington Health System Greene. Currently, $4 million dollars has been invested to make improvements to the physical facility in the form of renovations, aesthetics, new furniture, safety improvements and more. New technology has been adopted, resulting in an upgraded MRI department, Electronic Health Records, electronic test results and virtual visits. A new online scheduling and selfcheck-in system are in the works for the outpatient physician offices. WHS Greene also expanded service offerings with the addition of UPMC Telestroke, outpatient pulmonary, oncology, wound care, and foot and ankle care. Washington Health System believes in the integration of technology to make patient care more efficient and accurate. WHS Greene now uses the same electronic health records as the rest of the WHS system. This seamless electronic communication allows WHS Greene to stay connected with WHS Washington Hospital and the WHS Physician practices, allowing the quick and easy transmission of data and records so patients receive well-informed care wherever they are in WHS. Electronic test results are another way that technology at WHS Greene is making the process even smoother for patients. The test results are sent electronically to the doctors and posted on the hospital and WPG patient portals. Patients can access their results through a computer or, thanks to the Healow app, via any electronic device. No longer does the wait for results to have to be so worrying. Another way worries have been decreased is through the introduction of the WHS Virtual Care app. The Virtual Care app is like having an urgent care clinic available in the palm of your hand, 24 hours a day. Patients use their phone’s video chat capabilities to consult with a physician for urgent but non-emergency needs. Now you can visit the doctor from the comfort of your own home, or even while on vacation, making it easier to get seen without having to disrupt your entire schedule; visit WHSVirtualCare.com to sign up. Advanced technology has made its way into the improved Emergency Department with the integration of UPMC Telestroke. Time is of the essence when treating patients who are experiencing a stroke. Telestroke gives those patients access to world-class stroke experts through telemedicine using videoconferencing technology to link the WHS Greene Emergency Department with physicians at the UPMC Stroke Institute. Pittsburgh-located UPMC stroke experts are able to provide real-time assessments of stroke patients, ask questions of the patient, family, and ED staff, view CT scans and help
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ED physicians determine the best course of treatment. A vascular neurologist is accessible 24hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Other changes to the Emergency Department have resulted in a more efficient and less stressful emergency experience. The unit has been renovated and all curtain cubicles have been transformed into private patient rooms. New and upgraded equipment has been added to the now-private rooms. Changes in process, such as bedside registration and triage, have improved throughput and decreased wait times. The year-to-date average time spent at WHS Greene’s Emergency Department from walking in to being discharged is 116 minutes, well below the national average. And the average time from walking in the door to being seen by a nurse is only 16 minutes. Numerous improvements have been made to the 23-bed acute care unit, with the goal being patients’ comfort and an environment more conducive to healing. These changes include all private rooms, new beds and furniture for the safety and comfort of patients and their families. New cardiac monitors, medication safety devices, and communication boards have also improved safety. The communication boards located in each room allow for better connections between patients and their families, nurses, and doctors by sharing information related to daily care. They also add an extra layer of personalization to care. The addition of Vocera communication devices has also improved patient care and comfort. These devices allow for instant communication within the hospital and as far away as WHS Washington hospital. They can be used to communicate emergency situations or reach staff without the disruption of overhead paging. New cardiac monitors have also been added throughout the hallways at every corner, allowing for nurses and physicians to be alerted of potential problems no matter where they are. In 2017, the MRI department was upgraded to house a new Siemans Aera MRI, replacing the 13-year-old machine. The new MRI machine uses state-of-the-art technology and has improved the patient experience dramatically. The large open bore MRI alleviates the claustrophobia often experience by many MRI patients and can accommodate a larger weight capacity, up to 550 lbs. The new MRI also features a quicker testing time. Now more patients can be seen in a day in more comfort than before. WHS Greene is the only facility within 20 miles to have this technology. In addition to the upgraded MRI, the WHS Greene laboratory has expanded and enhanced its testing capabilities through new instrumentation and more tests can be performed than before. The Washington Health System has expanded its outpatient services in Greene County. Patients can now receive primary care, family medicine, behavioral health, laboratory, radiology, surgical services, pulmonary care, cardiovascular, oncology, wound, obstetrics, gynecologic, foot and ankle care on an outpatient basis. Now patients have more comfortable and useful options. Physician office visits are becoming even more efficient. WHS patients (through the Washington Physicians Group, also known as the WPG) now have access to online self-scheduling. This reduces
2018 • GreeneScene Magazine
A team from WHS Greene, including president Terry Wiltrout, visited the 2017 Greene County Department of Recreation Day Camp. They gave out jump ropes and safety wristbands to all the campers.
The new MRI addition with large-bore MRI.
A newly remodeled Emergency Department room.
phone wait times and patients can now make appointments outside of normal business hours, at several WPG offices, whenever it’s convenient for them. All you have to do is login to your portal account and schedule your appointment. The WPG offices are also working on integrating a self-check-in system to further reduce wait times on the day of your appointment.; this feature is currently available at WHS Family Medicine North Main as well as Family Medicine Waynesburg. This feature will soon be available at other WPG offices. In early spring, WHS will be investing over $500,00 for renovations to expand their outpatient services housed in the Greene County Medical Plaza, located on Route 21. These renovations will make the Greene County Medical Plaza offices the first in Greene County to include the new self-check-in kiosks. WHS Greene also plays a big part in the community. “We believe in supporting the community. One of the things that we found was that there was a community need for transportation,” Terry states. “We reached out to the area to develop a way for patients to have access to transportation, especially when leaving the hospital.” Through donations and community involvement, WHS Greene was able to partner with EMS Southwest to provide a safe means of transportation to WHS Greene patients. “We want people to be able to go home and get back to their family when done with their care, so that they can get the rest they need to heal,” adds Terry. WHS Greene makes sure to keep a community presence by participating in many local events, such as the King Coal parade, Christmas parade, Rotary
events, 4-H sales and more. Last year, the WHS Greene management team visited the Wana B Park day camp to give handouts and interact with the One of WHS Greene’s volunteers. children attending. “It was great to go out and be a part of this event. The kids had a great time and so did we.,” Terry says. “At WHS Greene, our patients are our friends, family, neighbors and fellow staff members. That’s why it’s important for Washington Health System to be involved in the community.” Hospital volunteers assist in the community and within the hospital. Volunteers work at the Cherry Door, a thrift store in Waynesburg. They also operate the gift shop located within the hospital. Volunteers can also be found at the main desk, greeting patients and helping with patient transport. The funds that volunteers raise are donated back to WHS Greene and have helped in the purchase of new furniture, communication, and technology improvements. There are always openings available for volunteer opportunities; if you are interested in becoming a volunteer, call 724-627-2698 for more information. WHS Greene is here for the community. Because of that, they will continue to improve and expand their services and facilities to provide the best patient care available. To see more of what is happening, visit their website at whs.org/greene or find them on Facebook @whsgreene.
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