Laurel Mountain Post :: July 2015

FREE

LAUREL MOUNTAIN

POST

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE of the JULY 2015 | ISSN 2330-6629

Happy Birthday, America!

Proctor’s Militia Ralph Waldo Emerson Great American Banana Split Update 7 Easy Ways to Write Your Life Story Kinetic Energy Buyer’s Guide to Successful Weight Loss Miracle in a Tube

1 - LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST, September 2013

2 - July 2015

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Let Freedom Speak “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

–First Amendment to the Constitution

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE of the LAUREL MOUNTAIN

POST

Proudly serving the Laurel Area Valleys and Highlands of Westmoreland County and neighbors since 2004.

There is a lot of interpretation surrounding our right to free speech, so the US courts have examined and refined the parameters since the Bill of Rights (first ten ammendments to the constitution) was adopted on December 15, 1791.

• Pure speech is the verbal expression of thoughts and opinions before a voluntary audience. Courts have generally provided strong protection of pure speech from government regulation.

• Speech-plus involves actions, such as demonstrating or protesting, as well as words. Speech-plus is not generally protected as strictly as is pure speech, because actions can be physically dangerous. The courts have ruled that demonstrators may not obstruct traffic, endanger public safety, or trespass illegally.

• Symbolic speech technically involves no speech at all, but it involves symbols that the courts have judged to be forms of free expression. Symbolic actions such as wearing black armbands in school and draft-card burning fit this category. Symbolic speech is highly controversial, and as a rule, the courts have sometimes considered it to be beyond the limits of free speech.

However, the Supreme Court did uphold the right of an individual to burn an American flag in the 1989 Texas vs. Johnson decision.

Many of the same principles that apply to freedom of speech apply to the press, but one with special meaning for the press is prior restraint. The courts have ruled that the government may not censor information before it is written and published, except in the most extreme cases of national security. (ushistory.org) These are the guidelines by which all media write and publish, though the details are often debatable. Pure freedom also includes sharing ideas and information without the influence of politics, religion, or corporate interests – something hard to do in today’s world of conglomerates and media empires who seem to own everything and everybody at some level. One look at any network news channel or major city paper reveals the private agenda of the owner and advertisers, rather than a pure stream of unbiased information.

It has been a struggle to avoid the traps of controversy with the Laurel Mountain Post over the years. People are passionate about their opinions and want to share them. I have turned away many columnists wishing to write about “hot” topics, or trade ad purchases for articles because it always turn contentious. I personally debate with many people, and have lost friends over it; however, I also defend each person’s right to their opinions – spoken, written or otherwised communicated. But not in the Laurel Mountain Post.

My goal has always been to find the POSITIVE stories out there, and to let the people tell them. Sometimes personal politics slip through, but with the best of intentions.

I hope you continue to enjoy the way we tell the stories, as much as we enjoy bringing them to you!

The Laurel Mountain Post is an independent, monthly publication produced at Fairview Farm in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. All material printed herein is subject to copyright and permission to reproduce in any format must be obtained in writing from the publisher. This publication is registered with the US Library of Congress, ISSN 2330-6629.

Cathi Gerhard, Editor & Publisher editor@laurelmountainpost.com

Megan Fuller, Web & Calendar Editor megan@laurelmountainpost.com

Nancy A. Clark, Contributing Editor nancy@laurelmountainpost.com

Gregory Susa, Co-Publisher & Circulation Manager Carol Gerhard, Copy Editor Publisher cannot and does not guarantee the accuracy of the matter represented in the advertisements herein published. Please contact the advertiser to verify details.

Phone: 724-537-6845 Fax: 724-558-9548 editor@laurelmountainpost.com

Laurel Mountain Post 189 Fairview Lane Derry, PA 15627

www.LaurelMountainPost.com “The Voice of Pennsylvania” – BBC News, 2006

Psychic Medium Rev. Marjorie Rivera Pittsburgh’s Premiere Psychic & Party Reader

412-884-7788 • pittsburghmedium.com My mission is to prove the continuity of life past the transition we call death.

– Cathi Gerhard

Every Story Begins At Home.

July 2015 - 3

July 2015 Table of Contents

5

Place Ligonier Country Market Ad

Proctor’s Militia

by Westmoreland County Historical Society

7

Quack, Quack, Waddle Waddle Down on the Farm by Cathi Gerhard & Greg Susa

8

The Lincoln Highway Experience

9

Ralph Waldo Emerson “Thats What They Say” by Rev. Marjorie Rivera

11 Great American Banana Split Update “There Goes the Neighborhood” by Mike Dudurich

12 7 Easy Ways to Write Your Life Story “Write Local” by Krista Sarraf

13 Can Kinetic Energy Replace Fossil Fuels?

by Earth Talk

14 Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome

by Hayley Chemski-Horwat

15 Miracle in a Tube

by Nancy A. Clark

On the Diamond

ANTIQUES Multi-Dealer Shop

110 East Main Street Ligonier, PA 15658 (724) 238-2226

Mary Jo Culbertson Proprietor (724) 238-0497

17 Buyer’s Guide to Successful Weight Loss “What’s Cooking in Fitness” by Mark Rullo, MS, CSCS, MES

18 Twin Lakes Park Expansion Grand Opening, – July 11 19 Muddy Mayhem, part 3

by Drew Williams

22 Community Calendar 30 Have I Told You Lately?

“End Notes” by Cathi Gerhard

31 Distribution Guide Where Can I Find a Copy of the LMP?

Health Insurance Questions?

We’ve Got You Covered to Save Time & Money!

We can help you find healthcare options NOW and year-round!

Dan McCue, Financial & Group Services, Inc. “We Can Handle Your Health Insurance Needs from Cradle to Grave!”

For More Info: 724-593-2081 or fgsinc@lhtot.com The next Enrollment Period for obtaining health insurance under the Affordable Healthcare Act begins again November 15!

Rolling Creek Primitives

This advertisement sponsored by Dan McCue, Financial & Group Services, Inc.

331 West Main Street Ligonier, PA 15658 (724)238-2500 • (724)238-2318

Owners: John & Giovanna Byers Primitive Country Items • Re-Purposed Products • Florals • Baked Goods Hand Sewn & Made Items • Candles • Gourds • Wool Art & Raw Wool Items

4 - July 2015

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Proctor’s Militia by the Westmoreland County Historical Society and IBWCP Founded on May 16, 1775, John Proctor’s formed under the command of John Procsentiments of the residents of WestIndependent Battalion Westmoreland tor who was the Sheriff of Westmoreland moreland County, expressed in the Hanna’s County Pennsylvania … were the first County at the time; he was given the rank Town Resolves of May 16, 1775, when American Troops with the first battle flag of Colonel. They served under various Proctor’s Militia was organized. west of the Allegheny Mountains. officers both in Washington’s Army in the The flag measures 76 inches by 70 In 1775 it comprised of present day East and against the Indians on the Western inches. The field of the flag is red silk. The Westmoreland, Washington, Fayette, frontier borders from 1775 until 1781, and canton in the upper right hand corner Green, Beaver, Indiana, Allegheny and later until 1795. These men marched under consists of individual pieces of red, white parts of Butler and Arms-trong Counties. their own battle flag made by the sister of and blue silk and forms two crosses. The This is where the white red on white represents man could look over the the English cross of St. rivers of the Allegheny, George; the white on blue Ohio and Kiskiminetas. the Scottish cross of St. North and west of these Andrew. The retention of rivers was the Indian the British symbol on the country, and the only deflag indicates that the terrent the savage red inhabitants of Westmoreman knew was the Westland County, although moreland County Border ready to resist the tymen, with his cursedly rannical acts of the British fatal Pennsylvania Long Parliament, still consiRifle and his Long Knife dered themselves loyal after which he is named subjects of King George by the Indians, “ShemanIII. ese” meaning Long Knives.

In the center of the field Before the news of the is a rattlesnake coiled to battle of Lexington, April strike. The snake’s 13 rat19, 1776 had reached tles signify the American Westmoreland County, colonies. The rattlesnake the settlers of this western is painted directly on the border gathered at the silk, as is the lettering and courthouse in Hanna’s decorative scrollwork.

Town which was the county The gold banner is letseat, six miles north of tered in black, “DON’T. present day Greensburg.

TREAD. UPON. ME.”; Members of I.B.W.C.P. Independent Battalion Westmoreland County Pennsylvania - Proctor's Militia.

This meeting occurred on the first two letters of the Left to Right: Tom Klingensmith, Matt Stein (seated), Bob Wray, Scott Henry, Caleb Holt, Joe Holt.

May 16, 1775. These Fronword UPON have flaked tiersmen of the borderland away over the years. framed that day the faUnlike the rattlesnake on mous Westmoreland Resolves, a copy of Captain Craig, a resident of near the present other early flags, the snake on the Proctor which was sent to the Committee of Safety day New Alexandria. flag faces right toward the symbol of the in Philadelphia. These Resolves stated the The original flag was in the archives of British Empire, presumably prepared to inhabitants of Westmoreland relief the state of Pennsylvania at Harrisburg but attack. Above the snake is the monogram measures for the people besieged in Boston, is now housed at the Fort Pitt Museum. This of John Proctor and the letters, “I.B.W.C.P.”, Massachusetts, they would raise money flag predates the Stars and Stripes by two 1st (or Independent) Battalion, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania (or Provincials). and supplies to defend their homes and years, is here described in replica: A British The flag was not flown from a pole. The state. They were unanimous in proclaiming red ensign bearing the cross of St. George that freedom from Great Britain should be and St. Andrew in the upper left corner has staff was inserted through the sleeve on the a primary act of the people, and that they on its crimson field the following letters: canton side of the flag and carried by the would form themselves into a body of JP IBWCP. These stand for “John Proctors color bearer of the battalion. armed and disciplined troops to defend the Independent Battalion of Westmoreland Samuel Craig, Sr., who with his three Western border of the Colony.

County Provincials.” The coiled rattlesnake sons, John, Alexander, and Samuel, Jr. One year later on July 4, 1776 in Philaand the ringing words “Don’t Tread On served in the Revolution, was the original delphia the Declaration of Independence Me.” The symbolism being, anyone who color bearer. Although many individual was framed, incorporating all the resolves treads on the rattlesnakes that reside in members of Proctor’s Battalion fought in that were proclaimed more than a year Westmoreland County does so at his own the Revolutionary War, the Proctor Batbefore on the western border in Hanna’s peril. talion did not fight as a group in the Town. The initial body of troops raised in Recent research suggests that this flag Revolution, and it is not known if this flag Pennsylvania West of the Allegheny Mounwas most likely commissioned from a was ever carried in battle. It is in remarkably tains was from among those men who met Philadelphia flag maker. It is painted on good shape, and bears no signs of the at Hanna’s Town in the summer of 1775. silk, and the painting was obviously done mayhem of battle. continued on page 6 Three Battalions of Riflemen were first by a skilled artisan. Its design reflects the Every Story Begins At Home.

July 2015 - 5

On Colonel Proctor’s death, ca. 1810, the flag was sent to General Alexander Craig, the son of Samuel Craig, Sr. The flag remained in the Craig family until 1914 when Jane Maria Craig of New Alexandria, Pennsylvania, the great-granddaughter of Samuel Craig, Sr., donated the flag to the State Library at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Later, it was transferred to the William Penn

C. HOLT: Oil Company Laborer J. HOLT: Oil Company T. KLINGENSMITH: Well Driller KUBICKO: Social Studies Teacher HENRY: QC inspector TILZEY-BATES: Marketing/Heritage Tourism

How long have you been reenacting?

W. KLINGENSMITH: 8 years C. HOLT: 7 years J. HOLT: 5 years T. KLINGENSMITH: 8 years KUBICKO: 10 years HENRY: 9 years TILZEY-BATES: 2 years, but

also worked as a docent at Historic Hanna’s Town since 2010.

What drew you to this period in history?

Colonel Proctor’s Battalion Flag

Memorial Museum, and is currently at the Fort Pitt Museum in Pittsburgh.

Proctor’s Flag was designated the official flag of Westmoreland County in 1973, the county’s bicentennial year.

The Independent Battalion Westmoreland County Pennsylvania is a Reenactment Group portraying frontier life in South Western Pennsylvania.

The present-day IBWCP Reenactment Group was formed in 2007 at Old Hanna’s Town with 13 members. We are of varied backgrounds and professions, all with a passion for the history of our country, specifically the 18th century Western Pennsylvania frontier. Our goal is to educate ourselves and others in the lifestyles of our predecessors. We use these skills not only in public reenactments, weekend treks and canoe trips, but in many cases, everyday life. Our focus time period spans the years 1750 thru 1783, encompassing the French and Indian, and Revolutionary Wars.

Who are the reenactors? Louise TilzeyBates, 45, of Westmoreland Heritage, interviewed some of her fellow militia members during last month’s colonial court days at Hanna’s Town: • Wade Klingensmith, Jr., 39 • Caleb Holt, 21 • Joseph Holt, 56 • Tom Klingensmith, 60 • Steve Kubicko, 50 • Scott Henry, 44 What is your current occupation?

W. KLINGENSMITH: DTR Truck Driver

6 - July 2015

• W. KLINGENSMITH: I have always been interested in this period, and what it took to build this nation.

• C. HOLT: my Father taking me to events at a young age. Old movies also sparked my interest in history. My love for history is a life style for me.

• J. HOLT: It was the local history that you can see and walk on every day ... seeing names on street corners and putting a face and it’s history to it.

• T. KLINGENSMITH: Personal interest, ancestors involved in Western PA, French & Indian War and Revolutionary War. • KUBICKO: I fell in love with history as a little boy when Mrs. Phyllis Darley taught Social Studies at St. Colman’s School in Turtle Creek. Eventually, I saw the Art of Robert Griffin and wanted to be part of this hobby. I am one the founding members of today’s I.B.W.C.P. • HENRY: I have always been interested in the founding of this country. I do reenacting to make sure that the people that built our country and our history are remembered.

• TILZEY-BATES: I’ve always loved history, since I was young girl, thanks to my Dad’s influence and encouragement. One of my first ‘historical’ memories is going on a field trip to the National Trust property, Montacute House, built during the English Elizabethan period and being greeted by reenactors dressed in period dress. They showed us the lifestyle of Elizabethans, and it was just one of those defining moments as a child that made me want to learn more about history. I’ve always been fascinated by the English Georgian period in history and naturally gravitated toward the French & Indian War / Revolutionary War period when I moved to the US.

What do you enjoy most about reenacting?

• W. KLINGENSMITH: Battles, friendship, go-

ing back to a period in time where things were done differently.

• C. HOLT: What I most enjoy about reenacting is the food, family, historical talk, battles and just the friendship from others that also the passion for the same time period. Escaping into the 18th century is a stress reliever that takes all the cares away. Trying to live the way our founding fathers and families and people lived back thn is something I love to recreate and also live. My hobby has changed the way I live and how I learn. The way battles were fought and the experience of fighting. How to do basic things they would have done in every day life and try to learn the hardship they had to go through.

• J. HOLT: Talking to the public, showing them it was done two hundred years ago.

How hard basic survival was. To see children’s faces light up getting involved in the act, and not realizing they are learning history as well. I enjoy reenactment events where it is not so scripted, such as The Grand Encampment and Cook’s Forest French & Indian War event. Camarderie is where like minded people sit around and tell historical stories and being able to speculate or add your thoughts what you think could have happened.Escaping into the 18th century is hard work and costly, so the people who do this love it. Sleeping in a tent when snow is all around or rain soaks through to your skin for a weekend, you’re there.

• T. KLINGENSMITH: Doing living history, showing public 18th century living, and our nation’s history, specifically Western PA. Opportunity to live as our ancestors did, experiencing every day pleasures and pitfalls. Sharing with like-minded friends.

• KUBICKO: Being able to share OUR HISTORY with the public ... it’s an extension of my career. I am an active outdoors man who has combined my love of history with camping and have met some of my best and most trusted friends through this hobby.

• HENRY: The like-minded friends and educating the public, since so little of this time period is taught in schools. Demonstrating the battle tactics of the period and the lifestyle of the frontier and militia is important. This nation wasn’t built by George Washington and Daniel Boone alone. History remembers the famous names but forgets all the common people that worked, fought and died because of their beliefs and hopes to create their own country. To live their lives as they saw fit. Some of my family served in the very militia unit we portray. All of these people deserve to be remembered.

• TILZEY-BATES: For me it’s two things…

First, it’s education. It’s the best thing for children and the public to observe Living History, it brings the past alive and demLAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

onstrates to the public how our ancestors would have lived on the frontier in the 18th century. Life was harsh, you had to be resourceful and resilient and if we can get that across then we have done our job. If I can spark an interest for history for a child, just as the Elizabethan reenactors did for me when I was 9 years old, then I am doing my job. It’s also about continuing to learn about this period in history. The second factor for me is escapism: I love getting dressing up in period garb, lacing up the stays and walking out as an 18th century woman.

The camaraderie between reenactors is like extended family, we all cherish a love of history. Attempting to live the 18th century lifestyle for a weekend is immensely satisfying, enjoyable but sometimes challenging – especially with inclement weather, but the enjoyment outweighs a little bit of rain! Visiting different historic sites for encampments and events, meeting other reenactors, sharing stories and historical facts is also a big bonus. ***** We are proud to commemorate the spirit of these men and women, each time we gather to shoot or camp, the battle flag of the first American troops West of the Allegheny Mountains flies high above us.

Some of the names to which we and this Country owe great thanks are, Gen. St. Clair, Col. Wm. Crawford, Col. George Rogers Clark, Capt. Wm. Linn, Simon Kenton, Capt. Sam Brady, Betty Zane, Mad Ann Bailey, Lewis Wetzel, David Duncan, Daniel Boone, Gen. Anthony Wayne and hundreds like them, with a spirit that could not be crushed. Our Nation stands today because of the courage and determination, of thousands of frontier men and women, who gave all for a new life, and to found a new Nation.

We are honored to be their heirs, and humbled in the shadow of their accomplishments. Remembrance is the greatest respect and honor we can give them.

Huzzah , Huzzah , Huzzah !!!

DOWN ON THE FARM

by Cathi Gerhard & Greg Susa

Quack, Quack, Waddle, Waddle Our safe* of ducks is almost fully-grown, but their feathers are still developing. Until the colors are finished, we will not know how many drakes and hens we have living in our little “Duckton Abbey” in the back of the barn. The most mature and colorful duck is also the biggest – and seems to be the leader of the household. We have named him Mr. Carson.

On command, they tend to waddle as a group from one end of their pen to the other, and take turns swimming in their little pool. Everyone also seems to be making loud sounds now like a quack, honk or chirp whenever we enter the barn, presumably to provide them with their favorite treats. We have been using a non-medicated starter/grower base feed, but supplement their diet daily with fresh greens such as dandelions and clover, meal worms, and koi sticks – all of which they prefer mixed into their water bowls and pools. (Ducks need lots of fresh, clean water for digestion as well as to keep their feathers, eyes and noses in good condition.)

We have been trying out different fresh foods from a researched list so that we can vary our treats. So far, we have found that our Welsh Harlequins do not like grapes, but love kale and broccoli. Other recommended supplements include: Vegetables: all lettuces but iceberg, cucumbers, corn off the cob, peas, bell peppers (no core, seeds or stems), diced carrots, cooked beans (uncooked are toxic to birds), cabbage, cauliflower, beets, aspara-

gus, diced squash, pumpkin, turnips, cubed zucchini and squash, bok choy.

Herbs: Oregano (a natural antibiotic), thyme, lavender, mint, parsley, sage, chamomile. Fresh and dried herbs also ward of pests such as flies and mites.

Flowers: nasturtium, marigold, zinnias, dandelions, primrose, echinacea Fruits: tomatoes (flesh only), eggplant, pears, applesauce, bananas (no peel), peaches, seedless cherries, halved grapes, cut up melons, pineapple, pomegranate seeds, strawberries.

Dairy/Proteins: worms, crickets, diced scrambled eggs, feeder fish (minnows, guppies), plain yogurt, koi food, cat fish food, cottage cheese, dry dog and cat food, milk.

Weeds: bee balm, bittercress, burweed, catchweed bedstraw, catsear, chickweed, clover, dandelion, evening primrose, fat hen, hawkweed, mouseear chickweed, mugwort, nettles, oxalis, plantain, purple deadnettle, puslane, shiny cudweed, shotweed, smartweed, wild carrot, wild

carolina geranium, wild strawberry, wild violets, yarrow. (Buttercup is toxic). For weed photos, see www.fresheggs daily.com/2012/02/ winter-weeds-101.html *A group of ducks on land is called a “safe,” in the air, a “brace” or “flock,” and on the water, a “raft,” “team,” or “paddling.”

Grow Your Business with Word of Mouth Marketing!

BNI-Laurel Leaders is an official chapter of Business Networking International. We meet every Wednesday at 11:30 am in the Wingate Hotel on Route 30 in Latrobe. Guests are always welcome! To learn more about growing your business with us, see www.bni-westernpa.com or visit a meeting!

Every Story Begins At Home.

July 2015 - 7

“The Lincoln Highway is a story about an American highway that helped teach us a new way to travel.”

The Lincoln Highway SupperMarket continues in July and August. It is an opportunity for families to savor the summer flavors from several area restaurants every Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m.

A $2.00 per car fee will be collected upon entrance to raise funds for the museum. As a courtesy to attendees, no smoking or pets permitted in food preparation or dining area. Attendees will enjoy a variety of ‘singing and strumming’ musicians each week.

Cancellation notice will be posted on the homepage at 1:30 p.m. each Wednesday if foul weather is predicted.

Several select vendors will prepare their finest ingredients on the premise and offer a la carte entrees; one bakery will serve a variety of desserts. In addition, a coffee roastery will be on hand to offer iced and hot coffees. Other cold beverages will be provided by the Lincoln Highway Experience. Supper can be enjoyed at one of the picnic tables, or pick up a ‘take out’ for home. It is best to bring cash, as vendors do not have credit/debit capabilities. Listed below are our 2015 Vendors: Connections Cafe, 109 S. Market Street, Ligonier Chef Mark's Palate, 1032 Latrobe 30 Plaza, Latrobe Chef Dato's Table, 645 PA Avenue-Route 217 N, Latrobe Aroma Italiano, 2220 Ligonier Street, Latrobe Grateful Smoke BBQ, gratefulsmokebbq2013@gmail.com Batter Up! Cakes, 110 N. Fairfield Street, Ligonier Old Linn Run Coffee Bean Roastery, 1686 Old Linn Run Road, Rector Sun Dawg Cafe, 41 N. Main Street, Greensburg

ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP Wednesday, July 1 - Gashouse Annie Wednesday, July 8 - Marty Zundel Wednesday, July 15 - Tim Bush Wednesday, July 22 - Chris and Lauren Wednesday, July 29 - InSight Wednesday, August 5 - Gashouse Annie Wednesday, August 12 - Detention Wednesday, August 19 - Tim Bush Wednesday, August 26 - Chris and Lauren

Folding chairs or picnic blanket recommended as tables fill up quickly!

CONTACT: office@LHHC.org or call 724-879-4241 The Lincoln Highway SupperMarket is held on Wednesdays during the summer at the Lincoln Highway Experience, 3435 State Route 30 East, Latrobe, PA 15650. The Lincoln Highway Experience is the 200-year old stone structure on Route 30 East, midway between Latrobe and Ligonier, near the Kingston Dam.

Directions to Lincoln Highway SupperMarket: • If coming from the west (Latrobe): Drive approximately 0.9 mile after Route 30 splits into a one-way eastbound lane. At the flashing yellow light, flip on your RIGHT turn signal and slow down.

• If coming from the east (Ligonier area): Continue west at the Route 30/217 traffic light intersection for 0.8 mile. Turn left at the BP/7 Eleven store and circle back onto Route 30 East for 0.9 mile to the Lincoln Highway Experience. At the flashing yellow light, flip on your RIGHT turn signal and slow down.

8 - July 2015

– Drake Hokanson, author of The Lincoln Highway, Main Street across America

The Lincoln Highway, our nation’s first coast-to-coast highway, marked the birth of popular American tourism – vacationing by automobile. Early motorists traveled to see where history was made, to experience the beauty of nature, to learn about regional differences and to have outdoor fun. The same reasons people take automobile vacations today!

Visitors who begin their journey at the Lincoln Highway Experience, nestled in the Laurel Highlands, will have a more enriching tour because they will see an inspiring orientation film, view a number of interpretive exhibits on quirky roadside architecture (including the Ship Hotel and Coffee Pot), distinguish differences between several restored gas pumps, trace the Lincoln Highway across Pennsylvania in beautiful black and white photographs, and shop for Lincoln Highway memorabilia and fine artisan crafts. In addition are exhibits on “Women at the Wheel”, Drivein Movie Theatres, and Postcards.

Visitors to the Lincoln Highway Experience receive a free postcard to write – we’ll even mail it for you!

Since 1996, the not-for-profit Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor has worked with a number of local, state and federal partners on heritage preservation, sustainable community development, and responsible land conservation in southcentral Pennsylvania.

Enjoy your journey on the Lincoln Highway, and remember to "Keep Thinkin' Lincoln!"

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

THAT’S WHAT THEY SAY Thought-Provoking Insights on Common Quotations by Rev. Marjorie Rivera

“Every Man is a Quotation from All His Ancestors” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Serving the Greater Latrobe area since 2009 Custom Window Treatments Residential and Commercial

Call for your Free In-Home Consultation

866-450-2450

Since this column is about thought provoking insights on common quotations, I could not pass up this quote! When we cite a quotation, usually we are referring to someone else’s opinion. Not to say that the original opinion is right or wrong, but that the opinion exists. I would like to think that most of us are a culmination of the opinions of our ancestors in some way. Think for a moment about how belief systems often intersect in strange ways to create this moment now inside of us.

I will share a personal insight here. My mother is a Cuna Indian from Panama. The Panama Canal and Canal Zone had been territorialized, inhabited and, at least in part, ruled by American Governance from 1903-1999. The country of Panama itself had seen its share of rebellion and instability. The presence of US soldiers in Panama had been a stabilizing factor in my mother’s belief system.

The soldiers brought with them a promise of comfort and security.

It is no wonder that my mother romanticized about marrying a man in uniform. My father, coincidently, was a soldier. He was Pittsburgh born and raised, in the army stationed in Fort Clayton, Panama Canal Zone. Who could have been more safe and stable than this guy?

As I was growing up, virtues such as honesty and hard work were spoken of often. More than anything, I wanted to be like my Dad and to be “stable” by having a career he would be proud of. I worked for the same company he did, for many years. I am sure he was proud of that.

Sadly, I wasn’t happy doing what my father did. I needed to align to my own happiness. His work ethic resides within me, but I needed to find my own work. I listened to my inner guidance so that I could come to balance. The past and present meet in peace inside of me now. I can honor my ancestors and myself. I like the insight on this quotation. Honoring where we came from and embodying the wisdom of those who came before me. Isn’t that what we do? Right now, every moment is a creation of how the past influences us and empowers us to make educated decisions about how we want to live right now.

At this moment in history we are doing this all over the world, learning from the past in good ways and in hard ways. We are seeing the ways we can have greater learning, greater healing, and greater connection. We are all in this together folks, our ancestors, ourselves and our descendants, all at once at this moment, in the ever present now. You are the exact moment that contains the wisdom of the past and the promise of the future.

Suggested Reading: Healing Ancestral Karma: Free Yourself from Unhealthy Family Patterns by Dr. Steven Farmer Connect with me: • Rev. Marjorie Rivera Pittsburgh Medium • Tweet tweet = https://twitter.com/PGHmedium • Like me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/PGHmedium

Every Story Begins At Home.

July 2015 - 9

Indiana Office: 724-349-8500 957 Philadelphia St. Indiana, PA 15701

New Alexandria Office: 724-668-5080 412 W. Main St. New Alexandia, PA 15670

Blairsville Office: 724-459-9200 213 E. Market St. Blairsville, PA 15717

New Florence Office: 724-235-3062 213 Ligonier St. New Florence, PA 15944

Marion Center

#1052725 – Very well kept home close to Indiana but in Marion Center School District. Home features 3 bedrooms, 1 3/4 baths, enclosed sunroom, tiered deck with retractable awning and large fenced in back yard. This home has 2 heat sources, electric and gas. Family room in basement has a gas fireplace. Offered at $162,000.

Rural Valley

#1049718 – Enjoy the view & privacy of this unique home situated on 3.08 acres w/3 bdrms, 2 full baths, full basement, custom library, sunroom & wet bar. Red wood decking, large front yard garden. Multiple sky lights, whole house surround sound. Offered at $325,000.

Derry Township

#1043779 – Well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2 full bath ranch, finished basement. Country setting, 2 private acres.

Covered patio/parking. 27’ round pool, woodburner and oil tanks. Close to public parking w/ boating, fishing, camping, swimming. Offered at $169,900.

Blairsville

#1042540– Beautiful move-in condition. Could be 6 br.

Large rooms, massive entry. Ceramic floors, 2 working fireplaces, nicely landscaped. Back stairs from kitchen to second fl. Walk-in closet, new roof, exterior painted in 2014. Off-street parking and more! Offered at $159,000.

Armaugh

#1051594 – Investors dream. 14.4 +/- acres in United School District. This home has great room sizes with large mud room, 2 car garage and utility garage. Easy access to Route 22. Property sold as is. Offered at $75,000.

Indiana

#1049118 – Beautiful end unit condo in Country Club Estates. Move in condition with large bedrooms. Master bedroom on first floor. Harwood flooring and granite counter tops. Sun room with small deck. Offered at $209,900.

Tunnelton

#1043394 – Split entry 4 bedroom home in Tunnelton near Saltsburg. Living room with fireplace, eat in kitchen with appliances, carpeted bedrooms with db closets, and full bath on upper level.Lower level features paneled family room, laundry area,.5 bath,storage room, 1car garage, covered porch–more! Offered at $118,000.

Brush Valley

#1042386 – Move in condition--Large Rooms, Eat in Remodeled Kitchen-First floor laundry-newer carpeting. Offered at $59,900.

Blairsville

#1050080 – Charming all brick home, immaculate condition. Hardwood floors, Geo Bush kitchen with storage and peninsula,3 bedrooms all with double closets. Bathroom features new large step in shower and ceramic tile, new sink and lighting. Nice sunroom w/patio doors. Space for family room in basement, utility room. Offered at $149,000

Mt. Pleasant

#1045761 – Well-maintained 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 baths, splitentry in Mount Laurel View subdivision. Master en suite.

Hardwoods, wall-to-wall carpet, central air. Custom stained glass. Integral garage. Offered at $205,000.

Stony Creek Twp #1043072 – 3 Bedroom home located in Stoneycreek Twp. Well kept with integral two car garage. Large family room and sun porch.

Offered at $68,500.

Marion Center

#1037798 – Beautiful old Farm House on +/- 30 acres. Relaxing views of pond from front porch; stroll through orchard on way spring house. 3-br main housew/traditional farm house first floor. Newer 3-car garage with a 1-br apt above.

Older bank barn will need attention. Offered at $395,000.

www.HewittRealEstate.net 10 - July 2015

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD

by Mike Dudurich

The Great American Banana Split Update The celebration of the birthplace of the banana split is about to hit the big time.

After two years of being put on by the Latrobe Community Revitalization Program, the event will be hosted and produced by the Greater Latrobe-Laurel Valley Chamber of Commerce in 2015.

The event, which will be held August 2830, will have a new name as well. It will now be known as the “Valley Dairy Great American Banana Split Celebration pre-sented by Excela Health.” And, just as importantly, the event will be filled with a variety of activities and events for everybody.

“Valley Dairy Restaurants has been part of the Latrobe community for almost 77 years, and we are proud to sponsor an event that brings recognition to our town and to the banana split that was created here,” said Virginia Greubel, Valley Dairy Restaurants’ Director of Marketing.

“Valley Dairy Restaurants serves a banana split that closely resembles the original one created by Dr. Strickler. As Ice Cream Joe says, “It’s a very ‘appealing’ dessert!

There will be a kids corner with face painting, balloons, prizes and toys and a banana split coloring wall. An outdoor adventure area will feature a rock climbing wall, wood carving events, inflatables and ice carving events. The 5K Dole Stroll will this year be a fully-timed and chipped race. There will be unique medals, t-shirts and awards. A skate hop, sock hop, YPG Color Dash, a Great American Pie Eating Contest, featuring banana cream pie, of course, as well as food, drink and vendors will be part of the celebration.

“Excela Health is pleased to be a presenting sponsor for the Banana Split Celebration. Just as the banana split is synonymous with Latrobe, so too is Latrobe Hospital, and they share an equally long legacy.

In fact, Strickler’s Drug Store, the birthplace of the banana split, is featured in the hospital’s History Corridor, where we celebrate the early days of pharmacy and the important role they played in the health and wellEvery Story Begins At Home.

being of our community,” said Maryann Singley, Vice President of Patient Care Services, Excela Latrobe Hospital.

On the 28th (Friday), there will be a Yellow Tie Gala at the Latrobe Art Center.

It’s a semi-formal event with heavy hors d’oeuvres, wine and yes, a banana split bar.

Tickets for that event are $40 and are available at the Latrobe Art Center.

“This is the third year of the festival and it’s a wonderful thing for our community.

I hope everybody is as excited about it as I am and support it and help it to grow,” said Latrobe mayor Rosie Wolford. “It’s a day for the community. I’m a firm believer we should remember and celebrate our history, and this is a great way to do that.”

The event has grown in its’ first two years and that growth is expected to continue in a big way this summer.

“It started out as a hometown thing,” said Jim Okonak, the executive director of the McFeely-Rogers Foundation. “If Punxsu-

tawney can do what they did with Phil, imagine what we can do. This could become an important thing for the Greater Latrobe area. It’s great for Latrobe. We’ve gotten some great exposure from this already.”

“The re-imagined event has amazing momentum and can be a true signature event for the city of Latrobe and the region,” said GLLV president David Martin. “Some of the event’s elements will have a regional draw and that is a win-win for the entire Greater Latrobe area.”

Nothing goes better with an oldfashioned banana split than a big concert, and that’s exactly what will happen during the Valley Dairy Great American Banana Split Festival presented by Excela Health.

Headlining the concert at Latrobe’s Memorial Stadium on August 29 will be The Clarks, the rockand-roll band founded at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1986 that has thrilled audiences around Western Pennsylvania and beyond ever since.

“The Clarks have played the Latrobe area on a number of occasions, though none recently. We played at the Rolling Rock Town Fair … which was an amazing experience,” said Greg Joseph, bass player for The Clarks. The band is made up of locals to Western Pennsylvania: Scott Blasey, Connellsville native, who lives in Peters Twp; Rob James, a North Allegheny native, who currently lives in Beaver, PA; Greg Joseph, a North Allegeny native, who lives in Hampton Twp, PA; and Dave Minarik of Mercer, PA, former resident of Natrona Heights. All were IUP students and honored as IUP Distinguished Alumni.

Local singer/songwriter Jessica Saenz will open the show before a performance from Lovebettie, a nationally known touring band from Latrobe recently named a “band to watch” by Rolling Stone magazine.

Tickets for the concert will be $15, with student tickets available at $10 with student ID. There will also be standing floor tickets next to the stage for $20.

July 2015 - 11

by Krista Sarraf

7 Easy Ways to Write Your Life Story “Stories—narratives—provide a way of understanding our place in the scheme of things by structuring our understanding of events.

They root us in an on-going stream of history and thereby provide us with a sense of belonging and helping establish our identities.”

-Arthur Dobrin, Professor Emeritus of Management, Entrepreneurship, and General Business at Hofstra University

So, you want to write your life story. Writing your life story can be extremely gratifying – even therapeutic. There’s something essentially human about passing our wisdom to future generations.

In an August 2013 article in Psychology Today, Professor Arthur Dobrin boldly argues that storytelling is “necessary for human survival.” He goes on to claim that, in modernity, we need stories more than ever. To summarize, in the good ol’ days, religion and government told us our place in the world. While that still holds somewhat true today, modern thought has complicated many of these narratives. As a result, you may feel a strong desire to tell stories as a way to understand where you fit in the big picture – to craft your identity.

It makes sense: in a day and age where identities constantly shift, we desire to solidify our place in it all.

Whether you tell stories around the dinner table about the glory days of high school or college, you talk about times of war or job loss, or you speak of former romances, you’re sharing your life as you speak.

But what if you want to write it down?

What if you want to have a physical, real life record of the things that happened to you and who you are? Though memoir writing can be healing, it can also be daunting if you don’t know where to start.

I recently worked with a hospice to compile a handbook for folks wishing to do memoir writing or “life review” as some call it. Writing this handbook got me thinking: how does someone who has lived a full life choose which stories to transcribe? Especially within the context of hospice, the task of weeding through one’s life to find the fruitful stories seems horribly overwhelming.

But it shouldn’t be. After all, storytelling is about as integral to the human experience as breathing. Think of the great religious texts: we’ve been telling profound, moving stories since the dawn of time. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” begins 12 - July 2015

John 1:1. I’m not up on my Theology, but as a writer, this line speaks to me that words are powerful, life changing forces.

Speak and ideas take shape. Write, and your life finds form.

As you write your memoir, you can reach into the wells of the past, journal about painful topics, and find healing. Or, you can find stories that represent your place within your families and communities’ heritages. You can speak of your role as class president, how your family came to the area, or where you bought your first house. No matter your age or purpose, writing about your life is a rich and rewarding experience.

Are you ready to explore your past and find meaning in words? Here are seven easy ways to write your life story: 1. Pick an audience. Are you writing for yourself, for your friends and family, or for future generations? Perhaps you’re writing for all three. Before you start, I encourage you to ask yourself why you’re writing. If it’s to heal past hurts, you may not want to show those stories to anyone.

If you want to give a sense of your timeline, maybe you’ll show your stories to future generations. Either way, I recommend that you decide on an audience(s) early on to narrow your focus.

2.Keep it simple. You don’t have to write about everything that’s ever happened to you. To get started, jot down the first five memories that come to mind. From that list, select the three most emotional ones (whether they make you laugh or cry).

Those three stories are your starting point.

3.Make it fun. After all, why spend time writing your life story if you don’t have fun? Before a life story session, find your favorite music, change into your slippers, and sink into the best chair in the house.

Or, head to a coffee shop to fill your senses.

Set the tone to make writing fun.

4.Literally tell your stories. I recommend that you grab your smartphone and record yourself telling your stories (if you don’t have a smartphone, find a friend who

does). Under the camera application, you can record video. These videos can be your final product; or, you can transcribe the stories and edit from there.

5.Hit up the library. Libraries offer access to databases where you can research your family history. Stop by your local library, and explain that you’d like to learn more about the area in which your stories are set, the people in your stories, etc.

Librarians are wonderful people who love to help.

6. Limit yourself. Without restrictions, you’ll get lost in the writing process.

There’s a better way: commit to writing once a week for eight weeks. After two months, you should have four to eight life stories. That’s a great start. Revise these stories before you write the next set. Limit yourself to stay on track with your goals.

7.Share your work. It’s a good idea to find someone to read your stories, especially if you’d like to publish them someday. A second set of eyes can catch errors and typos. Westmoreland County has several writer critique groups who can give you solid feedback. If you’re a student, Write Local can match you to a mentor who will help you to develop your work. Adult writers can also reach out to Write Local to learn more about writing events and groups in the area.

Whether you’ve lived fifteen years or fifty, remember that your memoir is uniquely yours. I commend you for sharing your story with the world. After all, you’re part of the tapestry that makes this place so interesting. ***** After working and studying in Virginia for 10 years, Krista Speicher Sarraf, originally from Donegal, PA, now lives in Latrobe where she teaches composition at Seton Hill University. Krista is a founder of Write Local, a literacy initiative that inspires young writers to think creatively and innovate locally.

Additionally, Sarraf writes poems and stories and is currently working on her first novel.

Write Local’s featured event in July is Dr. Seuss Camp with Latrobe Art Center. Visit writelocal.org/ events to enroll.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Can Kinetic Energy Replace Fossil Fuels?

Power from revolving doors, soccer balls & tiles: the next frontier in clean energy Physicists define “kinetic” energy as the efficient 3-LED lamp that runs for up to might not otherwise have access to elecenergy of motion (as opposed to potential three hours after just 20 minutes or so of tricity to provide a light to read at night. energy, which represents an object’s stored soccer. “The more the ball rolls, the more Another innovative application of kinetic energy). While there is not much that is power that’s generated,” reports Uncharted energy is from Pavegen, which produces practical that we can do with potential enPlay, which got the idea for the ball as a floor tiles that absorb kinetic energy when ergy, kinetic energy is another matter. We way to help eliminate the use of kerosene. people walk on them. The tiles are made can capture energy from all sorts of everyThe company also makes the Pulse, a porwith recycled materials and contain small day activities, and entrepreneurs around the table, emergency battery charging jump LEDs that light up to show they are workworld are working hard on ways to make rope designed to promote physical activity ing. Meanwhile, KinergyPower is applykinetic energy more accessible. But we may and spread awareness about the global ening the same principal to harnessing the be decades from realizing any serious fossil ergy problem. While the Pulse is a jump kinetic energy from vehicles through defuel displacement from this signed road surfaces that age-old energy source, and turn vehicle motion into by then other alternative enelectricity. ergy sources may have alBut while kinetic energy ready made coal, oil and natshows lots of potential for ural gas things of the past. helping transition away While the cutting edge refrom fossil fuels, it may volving door at Natuurcafé never become more than a La Port in Beerschoten, novelty if we continue to Netherlands (about 30 miles focus our energy resources southeast of Amsterdam) on other proven clean remay be one of the best exnewables like solar arrays amples of repurposing the and wind farms. Regardkinetic energy that humans less, get used to seeing generate through their more and more kinetic enmovement into electricity to ergy harvesting from floorpower their stuff—the door ing, sidewalks, soccer balls, connects the cafe to an adjump ropes and who knows joining train station and genwhat else. Going through a Uncharted Play’s Soccket soccer ball doubles as a kinetic energy power source for an erates some 4600 kWh of revolving door never felt so integrated high-efficiency 3-LED lamp. (Uncharted Play: Soccket / Via facebook.com, 7/2/13) electricity annually—it’s far good. from the only one. rope just like any other, it is also a portable For more information on these innovations, The Soccket is a soccer ball that was debattery charger that can be powered up please visit: signed by Harvard undergraduates for a from a power outlet or even better from class project—and since incorporated as the www.unchartedplay.com using it. For every Soccket or Pulse purcompany Uncharted Play—that harvests www.pavegen.com chased ($99/each), Uncharted Play donates energy when it is kicked around and can one to a kid in a developing country who http://kinergypower.com/ then be used to power an included energy EarthTalk® is produced by Doug Moss & Roddy Scheer and is a registered trademark of Earth Action Network Inc. View past columns at: www.earthtalk.org. Or e-mail us your question: earthtalk@emagazine.com.

Every Story Begins At Home.

July 2015 - 13

Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome

by Hayley Chemski-Horwat, MSN, CNRA Building Bodeez is located at 154 Pandora Road in Derry Township. 724-739-0105. www.building bodeez.net.

Set out for a run, possibly thinking about running a race or using running as a weight loss aide? About 1/2 mile into the run you experience intense pain that radiates on the outside of your knee, up the lower portion of your thigh into your hip. The pain nags at you and you are forced to stop your run and possibly running altogether.

Iliotibial band friction syndrome is a common cause of knee and hip pain in 78% running athletes. The IT Band is a fibrous ligament that runs from the hip to the underside of the knee, helping the main muscle in the thigh (quadriceps) to maintain alignment during movement.

Another name for this issue is Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome (IBFS).

With a repetitive exercise, such as running, the IT Band is aggravated and possibly swells from overuse or improper use. The IT Band “shocks” you with pain when running down a hill, stepping down

stairs, or even moreso with sitting. You may sense a popping on the outer side of the knee during runs.

Some IT Band issues are aggravated not only by running but also from poorly placing feet on uneven surfaces (paved or unpaved roadways), having a short leg, tilted pelvis, or “bowed” legs.

Working with orthopedic specialists, namely renowned orthopedic surgeons in the operating room I have free reign to ask their opinion on sports injuries such as the IT Band syndrome. Per several surgeons working out of Pittsburgh, PA they recommend “R.I.C.E.” or rest, ice, compression, elevation. Physical Therapy is generally prescribed, reduction in activity, foam roller use, anti-inflammatory medications (i.e. Motrin, Aspirin, Tylenol, Celebrex, Mobic), and rest.

Specific stretches are prescribed and generally completed by personal trainers and

aerobics trainers. Foam rollers are gaining popularity amongst athletes and fitness gurus to help to create muscle and connective tissue massage, and can be used daily.

Don’t give up on your running too soon.

Check with your primary care physician regarding your symptoms, and above all else, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY’S CUES. Tension in the body is normal, pain is not.

Zap the pesky IT Band Syndrome for a greater running experience.

Source: http://www.theragrid.com/wp-content/ uploads/2013/12/it-band-syndrome.jpg

***** Hayley is a Certified Fitness Trainer and the coowner of Building Bodeez Fitness Center, located at 154 Pandora Rd in Derry, PA, as well as a fulltime Nurse Anesthetist with the University of Pittsburgh Physicians, currently based at St. Margaret’s Hospital in Fox Chapel, PA. Hayley offers a wealth of fitness and health knowledge, serving as the Group Fitness Coordinator and Wellness Programs Director at Building Bodeez.

Save on Advertising in the Laurel Mountain Post!

Specializing in Yoga, Pilates, Teacher Training’s, Massage Therapy and Holistic Health Therapies NEW LOCATION (855) JDG-YOGA 855-534-9642 Jgyogaandwellness.com

5954 Route 981 N. Suite 3 Latrobe, PA 15650 Monday-Sunday

Massage by Appointment with Kelly Stevey: (724)787-4215

Healing Arts Appointments available in Reiki, Reflexology, Chakra Balancing, Aromatherapy/Essential Oils Consultations, Clinical Nutrition, and Pet Therapy.

This advertisement sponsored by The Toy Box and The Twisted Vine of Ligonier

14 - July 2015

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Second Chapter Books New and Used Books • Children’s Gifts Jewelry • Greeting Cards • Neat Stuff 139 East Main Street Ligonier, PA 15658

724-238-7933 fb.com/secondchapterbooks

Miracle in a Tube Nancy A. Clark

First came fire; then the wheel. And it came to pass that man collected enough electrons and protons to make a light bulb to find his way to the privy in the dark without stubbing a toe.

Man has discovered and devised millions of energy-efficient, work-saving durable goods to elevate himself above monkeyhood. Consider electro-static tamers like hair conditioners and dryer sheets. Martha Stewart has blessed many advancements with her It’s A Good Thing seal of approval; but I’ve yet to hear her endorse a product that has made one of man’s most confounding problems – fixing leaky pipes – look like child’s play.

I speak here of none other than polymerized siloxanes/[R2SUI]n, a synthetic compound commonly known as silicone – the eighth wonder of the world that can be found packaged in a tube on hardware, home improvement, auto parts and drugstore shelves, everywhere.

According to the American English Dictionary, “SILICONE is a chemical substance that is not easily damaged by heat or water; used for making many things including oils, plastics, and artificial body parts.”

The Urban Dictionary’s top definition for silicone: 1) If you actually bothered to search silicone in urban dictionary your retarded (a definition from one obviously in need of a lesson in grammar).

Silicone is not a controlled substance, nor is it (yet) a black market item. No license, prescription or photo ID is required to acquire it. Even minors can purchase it without written parental consent.

The pliable Silly Putty-like substance is “the most important element of the 21st century,” so saith www.springer.com. The American Chemistry Council confirms that there is a silicon-based component in pracEvery Story Begins At Home.

tically every manufactured product on the market today – from every mode of transportation in which grass, hay, oats or cornon-a-cob does not power the engine or motor to denture molds and, yes, artificial body parts.

This miracle in a tube is to industrialists, consumers and do-it-yourselfers what the Stanley Cup is to hockey. When used as directed, the modern day marvel can and has solved some of the more profound, as well as mundane complexities in life. If you don’t believe me, just ask my hubby.

Around these here parts, he’s known as King Silicone. (The reader may bow or curtsy as the king enters the court.)

My better-half reveres silicone as devoutly as he reveres his morning coffee.

Given an ounce of encouragement, he might strap on a double holster gun rig and slip two tubes of slick silicone where the old west cowboys holstered six shooters. His ingenious applications of this versatile compound have earned him the silicone crown, and he wears it well.

Silicone has allowed him to become the ultimate tamer when it comes to leaky anything. The bathtub, shower stalls and faucets in our house bear the king’s silicone seal of approval. A blob or bead of the stuff accessorizes our rain gutters, downspouts and practically every drain pipe joint. King Silicone and his loyal subjects liken the elastic substance to the Waters of Lourdes, lauding its power to heal, seal, strengthen, repair and restore. He has found productive ways to use the product that far exceed manufacturer’s recommendations.

Hubby’s theory of “a little dab’ll do ya” has paid off at window and door frames and at the base of bathroom “thrones” and deck support posts and anywhere necessity summons and the mother (or the father) of invention answers. The king has purposed the product for purposes other than those for which it was originally purposed – as in plugging holes in his truck bed liner, spanning a tear in a window screen and leveling a wobbly table leg.

It was hubby and his miracle-in-a-tube to the rescue when a sharp piece of metal protruding from the underside of our picnic table ripped a tear in my thigh. The silicone did nothing to repair my injury, but future picnickers need not worry about the sharp point that is now buried under a very generous “dab’ll do” it.

Unlike Thomas Edison or Bill Gates, the laboratory genius who concocted the recipe for silicone may never become a household name; but the king and I have no doubt in our minds that this processed sensation will go down in history for its innumerable applications. Mark my words: one day the ubiquitous silicone will be inducted in The Hall of Tame, wedged between a bottle of hair conditioner and a box of dryer sheets, all three trophies nailed in position with a little “dab’a” — you guessed it. ***** Nancy Clark and her husband, Tom, rejoice in 50 years of marriage, three children, three grandchildren, and on great-grandchild. She dabbles in freelance and memoir writing when she isn’t baking, knitting, reading, or building a jigsaw puzzle.

FUN FACT: On July 4, 1778 George Washington celebrated the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence by issuing double rations of rum to his soldiers. (History.com) July 2015 - 15

BE THERE WHEN CUSTOMERS ARE READY TO BUY!

KEEP YOUR BRAND IN FRONT OF ENGAGED READERS EVERY MONTH WITH ADS IN THE

WWW.LAURELMOUNTAINPOST.COM OR CALL 724-537-6845 OFFICIAL MAGAZINE

of theGreater Latrobe-Laurel Valley Community Chamber of Commerce

TRIVIA QUESTION: On June 7, 1776, who introduced the resolution proposing independence for the American colonies?

A few examples of how our program saves you money:

Clopidogrel NO WA VAI L

ABL

E

(generic Plavix)

Alendronate (generic Fosamax)

Unique Gifts

www.chicoras.com ANSWER: Acting under the instruction of the Virginia Convention, Richard Henry Lee introduced the resolution in the Second Continental Congress. Voting was deferred until July 2. (www.ourdocuments.gov)

16 - July 2015

(generic Prilosec)

$

(generic Protonix)

6 Months

Beautiful Things for You & Your Home!

331 Depot St. | Downtown Latrobe | 724-532-2270

OR

Omeprazole =

Atorvastatin Simvastatin Escitalopram

Home Accents • Wreaths Accent Furniture • Jewelry • Scarves Handbags • Lotion

Visit Our New Jewelry Room!

37 Pantaprazole = $ 70 20 mg only

OR

$70 $35 $65

for 6 Months for 12 Months

12 Months

$140 $65 $109

We now have available a low-cost alternative to Viagra tablets!

709 Ligonier St Latrobe, PA 15650 724-539-4565 latrobepharmacy.com

50 Sildenafil 20mg tablets (ten doses) = $80 versus $325 for 10 Viagra doses (prescription must be written for Sildenafil, 20mg #50, take 2-5 tablets as needed )

Visit website for a list of all available generics These offers are not available at any other Medicine Shoppe locations

Friendlier Service, Lower Prices in Latrobe!

Our low extended generic program can help keep you out of the Part D “donut hole”

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

WHAT’S COOKING IN FITNESS

by Mark Rullo MS, CSCS, MES

Buyer’s Guide to Successful Weight Loss What to know before you waste any time, energy or money When it comes to weight loss (weight management) for most, Access Isn’t Enough!

What is meant by “access isn’t enough” is that for the most part, only a very small percentage of the population has the selfdiscipline and know-how to eat correctly and exercise on their own. While the remaining large percentage of the population needs some type of continuous support, accountability, direction and assistance to become successful with weight loss and ultimately weight management.

With this understanding, it is frustrating to see individuals who are seeking resources, such as gyms, trainers, on-line diet or exercise programs, etc, to change their weight and have a decision making process that is flawed. Making a decision based off of a poor process eventually makes the journey more difficult and for some impossible.

In the past, I have highlighted how the current “gym” or “fitness centers” are definitely not the solution for weight loss, as shown by the growing abundance of new gyms/exercise centers opening up year after year. While at the same rate, the number of individuals who are overweight or obese are increasing at an alarming identical pace. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to correlate that data, but why then do many continue to seek gym memberships that only provide access to equipment or classes with a belief they can out exercise their fork when weight loss is their goal?

This parallel relationship of the rise of individuals overweight and number of exercise facilities is driven by consumers making misinformed purchasing decisions. The biggest mistake is when individuals believe joining a “gym” is the correct first step in their weight loss journey. For the most part gyms/fitness centers provide access to exercise, which from a health perspective is great. However, when it comes to weight loss, exercise is just the part-time job where nutrition (caloric management) has to be the full-time job to pay-off any weight loss.

Understanding this disconnect, below is a simple four-step checklist (Buyer’s Guide) to assist individuals on what exactly to look Every Story Begins At Home.

for in a weight-loss resource to not waste their time, energy, and money while most importantly making sure they achieve their weight loss goal.

In a nutshell, the four things (in this order) that you should factor into your decision making process when seeking a resource to assist you in your weight loss journey: 1. Game Plan 2. Comfort Level 3. Accessibility 4. Price Game plan refers to having a personalized program featuring both nutrition and exercise (if able) that is evidence-based NOT from hype, or myths. Any goal, weight loss or whatever, without a plan is really only a wish.

This is very similar to having a map to get from point A to point B. When you are researching options to assist you in weight loss; Do they: • Offer to sit down with you to discuss a strategy by listening to your personal situation and goals?

• Provide a strategy that fits you? This means it is designed around your preferences (food, exercises, etc…), limitations (physical, emotional, availability), goals and timeframe. Essentially avoiding the common mistake of trying to fit a generic square peg in a customized round hole. This is often seen with cookie cutter meal plans and exercise workouts for the sake of exercise with no regard to its role in supporting your metabolism the other 23 hours in the day when you are at rest.

• Explain the science behind their program so that you can see and understand why their program is the most safe, effective, and efficient for you to get to point B from point A. • Provide on-going accountability checks to ensure compliance and progress toward your goal?

• Provide adjustments to the program based on the progress (or lack of) to ensure success?

• Educate and empower you on how to get you to your weight loss goal; but more

importantly, how to keep that weight loss for a lifetime in a livable way that is built around your foods, your terms for your lifestyle?

Personally the information above should be shared and discussed before any transaction or commitment is made to any resource when your goal is to lose weight.

Never should you have to sign up first then see if they can work with you or not.

Mind always trumps the body. Wherever you go, you have to make sure you feel comfortable with the staff and anyone else at the facility. Without comfort in a facility, the perfect game plan can be worthless. To further your success, this comfort level can also be magnified by a network of support within the facility. The road to weight loss success is a challenge but is much smoother when you have others cheering you on along the way.

Geographically you will want to find resources that work for you; Having a facility that is accessible will eliminate an excuse to not get there. Know in advance when you plan on utilizing the resource – either before work, at lunch-time, after work. Whatever time it may be, make sure it is convenient to get there. It is also important to avoid environments that are intimidating because of over crowdedness and inability to utilize the all of the equipment. This also coincides with having comfort in a facility.

The last variable in your decision making process should be price. Ironically, this is typically the first and usually the only variable in the decision-making process which is why we see a lack of results and poor utilization. Do not get me wrong, the price must fit your budget. However, without regard to any of the previous three points above, any price is too much if not utilized or producing results.

For individuals who need more than “access,” it is not uncommon to have some self-doubt of actually reaching their weight loss goal. This self-doubt most likely accumulated from previous failed attempts or uncertainty of what to do. When there is a continued on page 18

July 2015 - 17

continued from page 18

skeptical mindset, individuals will subconsciously choose the lowest financial option.

This way, if it doesn’t work they will not feel burdened from a financial perspective if they quit or fall short of their goal. However, because of this thought process, they end up making the road to successful weight loss almost an inevitable failure. To best remove any lack of confidence in achieving your goal, I recommend surrounding yourself with a support system and team of professionals that will encourage you to work hard and hold you accountable to achieve your desired transformation.

The bottom line is that if you are not a part of the small percentage of people who have the knowledge and self-discipline to change your lifestyle on your own, this 4step guide will give the direction on how to find the appropriate resource to assist you.

Sometimes the least expensive option is not always the best and will not payoff in the long run. In some cases, the old adage is true – You get what you pay for. Your health and your body are well worth the investment. ***** Mark Rullo, MS, CSCS, MES is an Exercise Physiologist, Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist, Medical Exercise Specialist, Certified Golf Fitness Instructor and owner of My Fitness Kitchen® www.myfitnesskitchen.com 724879-8523. Mark and his team at My Fitness Kitchen® specializes in weight loss and body transformation helping thousands meet and exceed their goals through evidence-based scientific programming. www.myfitnesskitchen.com 724-879-8523 results@myfitnesskitchen.com My Fitness Kitchen® is where weight loss is made simple.

18 - July 2015

Twin Lakes Park Expansion Phase III Grand Opening, July 11

The grand opening ceremony for the recently completed facilities at the Twin Lakes Park Expansion will take place on Saturday, July 11, beginning at1:00pm.

The event is open to the public and no RSVP is required. It will be held at the Twin Lakes Park Expansion area (the West Recreation Area), which is accessible from George’s Station Road near the Peach Plaza Skate and Action Park.

The Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation Citizens Advisory Board is dedicating three facilities at the opening: the David R. Peach Dek Hockey Rink, the Brian T. Rusnock Amphitheater, and the Elizabeth Anna Peach-Bolish Winter Sports Area. The 150' by 75' David R. Peach dek hockey rink, named in honor of David R. Peach, son of James R. and Joyce H. Peach, is available for recreational games, practices, league games, open skating and a variety of other activities. The cathedral-style Brian T. Rusnock amphitheater will be host to several free summer concerts. The Elizabeth Anna Peach-Bolish Winter Sports Area, named in honor of James R. and Joyce H. Peach’s daughter, now has lighting for extended sledding and tubing fun in the winter months.

Immediately following the grand opening speaker’s program, Life of Brian band will perform at 2:00pm on the Amphitheater. An exhibition dek hockey game coordinated by Latrobe-GLSD Parks and Recreation will take place at 4:15pm on the dek hockey rink. The dek hockey rink will be open to the public before and after the exhibition game, so bring your skates and dek hockey equipment to try out the new rink! Representatives from Hot Shots Indoor Sports Arena in Mt. Pleasant will be on hand to demonstrate dek hockey skills, and the WestCo Roller Derby team will provide roller derby demonstrations at 3:00pm and 5:30pm.

East Coast Turnaround band will perform at 5:00pm. Food and refreshments provided by the Harbor Inn Restaurant and Lounge will be available for sale to benefit the non-profit Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation Citizens Advisory Board.

To access the Twin Lakes Park Expansion, follow Donohoe Road from the traffic light at Westmoreland Mall. At the four way stop, turn left on to George’s Station Rd. After crossing the railroad tracks, turn right onto Streetpark Loop.

For more information, please call Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation at (724) 830-3950, or visit www.co.westmoreland.pa.us/parks.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Muddy Mayhem,

part 3

by Drew Williams “I think this is definitely the place,” Sheila said as we pulled off a gravel lane into an enormous field that doubled as the Muddy Mayhem parking lot. Hundreds of cars were neatly lined up in the converted cornfield with scores of mud covered people walking about.

“Is that lady wearing a tutu?” Sheila asked as I pulled our minivan into the first available space. I glanced to where she was pointing, and sure enough, there was a short red headed woman walking down the lane wearing a purple tutu with pink frilling.

“Why aren’t you wearing a tutu?”

“Very funny,” I said. Following the advice of Carl, my over enthusiastic trainer, I wore an ensemble of old gym shorts, a tee shirt, and a pair of shoes I wouldn’t have a problem parting with. Carl had given me lots of good advice: take garbage bags to sit on after the run because mud gets everywhere, take two changes of clothes, makes sure to go to the bathroom before the run, and take some Motrin before I start because, as he put it, I’m going to need it. At no time did he advise me to dress as a ballerina.

Sheila chuckled and pushed open the passenger side door. “I think you would rock the tutu look. Especially with those hairy legs of yours.”

I laughed and grabbed my bag with my change of clothes. “Maybe next time,” I said, exiting the car. ***** In the previous three weeks since Sheila’s pep talk, I had managed to stick to my training. I ran nearly every day and hit the gym at least three times a week. I had reached a point where I could run a little over a mile without stopping to walk, and on the last trip to the gym I successfully bench pressed the 150 pounds that had stumped me on my first workout.

Carl had been pleased. “Alright,” he said after my successful lift. “There might be some hope for you yet.”

I think Carl was being complimentary, at least that’s the way I took it.

At work Tom Krieger had also offered a slight compliment after I had told him a few days before the run that I was certain I would finish it. “No doubts now,” he said offhandedly. “We’re going to be just fine.”

I decided to let that remark pass.

Every Story Begins At Home.

I also decided to remain silent the day before the race after I weighed myself.

“221,” I said proudly.

“You’ve dropped almost ten pounds,” Sheila said. “Way to go!”

The actual loss was closer to four pounds, but since Sheila had overestimated my original weight I saw no reason to correct her, and gladly took credit for shedding a few extra pounds.

“It looks like you’re ready,” she said.

I told her I thought she was right. ***** “Hey, over here.” I turned to see Tom Kreiger and my other two teammates, Neil Drossman and Arthur Ghent waiting for us at the entrance. None of them were wearing tutus. “We got your number,” Tom said, waving a large manila envelope in the air.

Sheila and I went over to the trio, and Tom gave me the packet containing my official race number, 2903, and a tightly folded tee shirt that boasted the Muddy Mayhem logo.

“So where’s your wife?” Sheila asked Tom as I struggled to pin the number to my shirt.

“She didn’t feel like coming,” Tom replied.

Neil and Arthur also nodded. Apparently their wives didn’t feel like coming either.

“Yeah,” Neil piped in. “They’ve been here before and think it’s kind of silly.”

Sheila laughed and looked about the crowd. “Well, there’s a bunch of guys over there dressed like nurses covered in mud and drinking beer. Nothing silly about that.”

Arthur just shrugged his shoulders.

“Our wave goes off at 10:30 so that just gives us about 20 minutes,” Tom said, glancing at his watch. “So we should probably start heading toward the starting line.”

In agreement, Neil and Arthur turned to follow Tom. I made a step in their direction but Sheila stopped me.

“Go ahead,” she said to the others. “I’ve got to fix David’s number.”

I didn’t think I had done too bad a job pinning the bib onto my shirt but Sheila definitely didn’t like the way it was hanging.

“So,” she said, keeping her voice low.

“Wives didn’t have to come today.”

“I didn’t know. . .” I began, but she raised her finger and shushed me.

“It’s okay, I want to be here. I just think it’s kind of sad that their wives aren’t here to cheer them on.”

“It’s probably because they’ve done this before,” I said.

Sheila frowned slightly as she continued to repin my bib. “Well, that’s up to them,” she said. “But I know I’m not going to miss my husband facing the Flaming Wall of Death.”

“It’s just a Wall of Death,” I corrected her.

“It’s not flaming.”

Sheila patted my chest as she finished with my number. “Too bad,” she said. “That would really be something to see.”

The starting line was about a hundred yards from where we were. A few hundred runners were already milling about the starting chute while several hundred more people stood behind a long rope separating the participants from the spectators. As we neared the line Sheila pointed to a small clearing about thirty yards away where a few people had set up lawn chairs and picnic blankets.

“I think I’ll set up over there,” she said patting the camp chair slung over her shoulder. “That should give me a good view of the start and finish.” She leaned toward me and kissed me. “Just do me a favor and don’t have a heart attack out there.”

I promised Sheila I wouldn’t die during the mud run and headed toward where my teammates were milling about, waiting for the race to begin.

“You all set?” Tom asked me, obviously checking my race bib to see if it was straight.

I told him I was good to go and he offered me a high five which Neil and Arthur joined. A few people around us also gave us a few high fives and fist bumps and wished us all good luck. We did a little stretching and socializing as the minutes ticked down to our start time. With about two minutes to go, Tom put his arm around my shoulder and thanked me again for filling in at the last minute.

“We couldn’t have done this without you,” he said, but couldn’t help adding, “Just make sure you finish it.”

I thanked him for asking me and told him I’d see him at the finish. We both turned toward the starting line when a few seconds later the wail of an air raid siren filled the air signaling the start of our wave.

Because there were so many people in the starting chute, the run began with the mass shuffling of feet and very little continued on page 20

July 2015 - 19

momentum. The starting pace was a tad slower than my usual waddle, and for a moment I thought that this would be ideal for me. But as we neared the opening of the chute the runners started to pick up speed and disperse.

“See ya at the end,” Tom called out before bolting across the open field. For a few seconds I tried to match his speed but was quickly panting and needed to slow down before I had even gone two hundred yards.

I could see the first obstacle, the Clump Dump about a quarter mile ahead, a series of industrial sized dumpsters I had to climb in and out of. I slowed my pace to a comfortable jog and headed for the first dumpster. Seeing how easily the runners flipped over the dumpster’s side, I was pretty confident this obstacle wasn’t going to give me any problems. When I reached it, I grabbed the top of the dumpster and swung my leg up and vaulted over the side ...

Right into a foot of mud.

A man about my age looked at me and laughed. “Easier getting in than out,” he said.

I agreed and pushed my legs through the thick goo and climbed out of the dumpster to find three more waiting for me.

When I finished the Clump Dump, my shoes felt like they were made of brick and I was starting to pant. People were jogging past me laughing and joking, but a few out of shape athletes like me were taking a moment to catch our breath. At least I wasn’t the only one. About a minute later when my breathing returned to almost normal I started jogging again, trying not to remind myself that I still had nineteen obstacles left to go.

The next three obstacles weren’t so bad, just a muddy ditch to traverse and a few hay bales to jump over. If the rest of the obstacles were like this and I didn’t try to go too fast, I was pretty confident I could finish. But no sooner had my confidence risen, I came upon the Barb’s Wire Crawl. The obstacle was fairly simple, I had to crawl twenty yards under a bunch of barbed wired. But this was the first time I had to go face first into the mud. I fell onto my belly at the start of the obstacle and pushed myself forward with my elbows. About a third of the way through another competitor’s foot came down close to my face sending a glob of mud right into my eye. Instinctively I reached out to brush it aside but my arm got tangled in the wire and sliced through my shirt.

20 - July 2015

For a few seconds I contemplated the absurdity of my situation. I was an overweight, middle-aged accountant snagged in barbed wire in the middle of a muddy field who had paid $65 for the privilege.

Normal people did not do these types of things, I thought. At that moment I wanted to call time out and just get up and go home. But that wasn’t an option; the only way I was going to get myself out of the barbed wire was to crawl through the mud to the other side. I blinked away as much mud as I could and started crawling. I’m sure my arm was bleeding from where the wire caught it, and I’m sure there were

about a gazillion parasites living in the mud just waiting to infect me with some flesh eating bacteria.

But I crawled on and reached the other side, and when I stepped away from the wire I saw a sign to my right that read, MILE 2.

Mile 2 wasn’t much different from Mile 1. I jogged, then walked, and then climbed over some barricades and then under some obstacles. There was no barbed wire to contend with, but at one point I did have to slide down a fireman’s pole which skinned my forearms. I was one of the last runners in my wave so there weren’t many people going over the obstacles when I reached them for which I was grateful.

At some point during Mile 2 I heard the air raid siren wailing overhead signaling the start of the next wave. When I heard it I started to pick up my pace; I didn’t want people from the next wave passing me before I’d even completed half of the course.

When I reached the sign reading MILE 3 I was pretty much in my own little world. I had lost sight of the rest of the guys on the team long ago and the course was mainly filled with slow moving stragglers like myself who were too tired for chit chat and attaboys. However, every once in a while I would meet one of their eyes and we would share a knowing glance, a look that said we understood each other’s pain and feelings of foolishness for subjecting ourselves to this.

After a while I stopped thinking about how hot it was outside or how hard the obstacles were. I just jumped or climbed, crawled and swung depending on the challenge in front of me. All the while as my legs grew tired and my arms hurt more a strange feeling of satisfaction came over me. I couldn’t honestly say I was enjoying myself, but I was no longer intimidated by the mud and the mayhem. As the minutes passed and Mile 3 became Mile 4 I found my pace going from waddle to slow jog, and on a few flat stretches of land, I actually did something that looked like running. I realized that for the first time in over 25 years I was playing in the mud and wasn’t going to get in trouble for it.

As I hit the fifth mile a swarm of runners from the wave after mine sped by me. Most went by without noticing me, but a few patted me on the back and told me “good job.” One man who couldn’t have been a day under 70 gave me a thumbs up and said, “You can do it.” I waved and plodded on, knowing that I was going to do it.

And I was having fun.

Then came the Wall of Death.

It was the next to last obstacle, a 20- foot vertical wall with thin wooden slats screwed into the face acting as hand grips. If it would have been at the beginning of the course I would have considered it imposing but not impossible. But after nearly five miles of trudging through mud with legs and arms that felt as if they had come down with a case of rigor mortis, I didn’t know how I was going to be able to haul my 221 pound body over the top. With about 100 yards to go before I hit the wall I started jogging a little faster to pick up a head of steam. A man wearing a red cape ran past me.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

“Isn’t this great,” he yelled. “It’s like when I was in the Army.”

“I’m an accountant, I don’t run over walls,” I managed to say between breaths, but I don’t think he heard me.

He hit the wall running, his red cape flapping up and over. I arrived a few seconds later with much less speed and energy. I jumped up and was able to grab one of the hand holds and hoist myself upward. My left foot swung out and made contact with another wooden slat and I was able to stand up. I’m going to do this. Gripping a slat with both hands I pressed myself upwards, my right foot finding a hold. I was about three feet from being able to grab the top of the Wall of Death.

I pushed off with my left hand and swung my right toward the top edge of the wall. My fingers brushed the lip but just as I was about to hook them on the edge, my foot slipped, throwing off my balance. My right hand missed its perch and all my weight seemed to be resting on my left hand.

Not good, I thought, realizing that I was about to take a tumble off the Wall of Death when I felt a hand clasp around my right wrist and yank me upward.

“Gotcha,” I heard a voice say.

I raised myself up and straddled the wall 20 feet above ground. The woman in the purple tutu Sheila had noticed when we first arrived had one hand on the wall and another on a rope which was there for the descent. “You almost took a tumble,” she said.

“Yes I did,” I said, glancing down at the ground. “Thanks.”

“No problem.” She gave me a quick salute and shimmied down the rope. When she was on the ground I took the rope and followed.

Once on the ground I could see the finish line about fifty yards ahead. One more obstacle stood in my way, a ten yard puddle of waist deep mud. At this point in the race the spectators were lined up on the left side cheering on the finishers. I started for the puddle hoping to catch a glimpse of Sheila, but I didn’t see her. I waved in the direction I thought she might be right before plowing into the last bit of muddy mayhem. It took about two minutes to push my exhausted frame through the thick ooze, but I did grinning the whole way.

When I got out of the pit I half stumbled across the finish line, bumping into the high school aged girl who was handing out the finisher’s medals. From the amount of mud on her it was obvious I wasn’t the only one who had nearly collapsed in her arms.

“Congratulations,” she said, slipping the faux silver medal over my head. From the way she smiled I think she really meant it.

Every Story Begins At Home.

I tried to say thank you but I was panting too hard. Another exhausted finisher was crossing the line so I moved on, forcing my wobbly legs toward the far end of the finisher’s chute where there was a table lined with bananas and bagel halves. It was the traditional post-race snack, and I took full advantage of it.

After a second banana and some Gatorade, my knees were no longer shaking though my legs still felt like they were encased in concrete. I made my way to the far end of the chute where I saw Sheila standing just inside the spectator’s section.

She was grinning and clapping for me, a one woman cheering section.

“You did it!” she called out. “You did it!”

I gave her a small wave and ducked under the rope separating the spectators from the race area.

“I survived,” I said laughing. I reached out to hug her but she thrust her hands out to stop me.

“I love you, babe, but you are way too muddy to be hugging on me now.” When I put my hands to my side Sheila stepped in closer and gave me a soft kiss on my muddy cheek. “I’m proud of you,” she whispered in my ear. “Now let’s go find those hoses and get you cleaned up.”

We found a half dozen race workers with industrial grade water hoses happily spraying water into the crowd. Laughing, Sheila pushed me in their direction. I got pelted with ice cold water but it felt great. Some people were dancing and flapping their arms like chickens. Everyone was dripping in mud and freezing water, and loving it.

When I got as much mud off as I possibly could, I walked back over to Sheila who gave me a towel. As I wiped my face she told me that the rest of the team was at the results tent waiting on my time to be official.

“You finished in an hour and 37 minutes,” she said. “Tom told me that you guys came in the top ten, it just isn’t official until your time posts.”

“That’s great.”

I was glad we took a top ten position; it would be something cool to brag about at work. But at that moment I really wasn’t thinking about the team or the pain in my legs or the mud that was oozing into just about every crevice on my body. Nor was I thinking about the weeks leading up to the run where I forced my body to waddle around my neighborhood. What came to my mind was something Carl had said to me during one of our training sessions. He told me that when I crossed the finish line I should stop and remind myself that I just accomplished something I hadn’t thought myself capable of doing.

“And how often do you get a chance to do that?” he had asked.

I looked around at the hundreds of runners. Most covered in mud, some yet to start.

They were all laughing and hugging each other. How many, I wondered, had just done something they didn’t think was possible? How many had pushed themselves a little bit further and ran a little bit faster than anyone thought they could? I looked down at the silly little silver medal that read Muddy Finisher 2015. How many, I wondered, were feeling as wonderful as I did at that moment?

I felt Sheila take my hand and tug me.

“Come on,” she said. “Let’s go get your official time.”

“Probably record breaking,” I laughed.

“Blistering,” Sheila quickly replied. “But good enough for me to buy you a beer.”

Our walk toward the results tent took us near the start line where the next wave of several hundred runners was about to take off. Sheila paused, pointing toward the line.

“So, are you going to want to do this again?”

I didn’t hesitate to answer.

“Not a chance.” ***** Originally from McKeesport, and a graduate of both Slippery Rock (BS and MS) and IUP (PhD), Drew Williams is a Professor of English Literature at North Carolina Central University in Durham. He lives in Fuquay-Varina, NC with his wife, Laura, and their growing collection of dachshunds.

The author, right (pictured with teammate Pat Paturzo, left), finished his first Mud Run in six seconds under and hour on August 27, 2011.

PHOTO CREDIT, page 20: Participants in the “Farinato Race” held in the Spanish city of Gijon, on 18 January, 2015 from www.123rf.com.

TRIVIA: In 1776, about 2.5 million people lived in the newly independent United States, according to the U.S. Censure Bureau. In 2011, 311.7 million Americans celebrated Independence Day. (livescience.com)

July 2015 - 21

JULY-AUGUST COMMUNITY CALENDAR “Eloquent speech is not from lip to ear, but rather from heart to heart.” – William Jennings Bryan

7/6/2015 to 7/10/2015 Fur and Feathers Camp for 6-7-8 Year olds Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve 744 Walzer Way, Latrobe, PA 15650. wpnr.org Curiosity will take flight as students learn about song-birds, birds of prey, and other birds native to our state. They will also learn about mammals that inhabit our region. They will take part in explorations, experiments, games, hikes and more as they explore the Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve.

7/7/2015 to 7/9/2015 Marvel Super-Hero Days Idlewild and SoakZone Route 30 East, Ligonier, PA 15658. idlewild.com Spider-man swings into Idlewild and he’s bringing along his good friend, Captain America.

Meet both Marvel Super-heroes daily at the Hillside Theater Stage, July 7, 8, and 9.

7/7/2015 to 7/19/2015 Neil Simon’s Chapter Two Mountain Playhouse 7690 Somerset Pike, Jennerstown, PA 15547814.629.9201 mountianplayhouse.org Talk about bringing old baggage to a new relationship! The play centers on George Schneider, a successful writer mourning the recent loss of his beloved wife. When George meets a vibrant, recently divorced actress, Jennie, they begin a whirlwind courtship that leads to marriage. But can George put his past behind him and his memories aside? Do they give up or work things out?

7/8/2015 Business After Hours Courtyardby Marriott, Greensburg. 5:05 - 6:35 pm 700 Powerline Drive, 724-834-3555. gllv.org Presented by First Commonwealth Bank It’s summer-time, the patio is open, and the networking is ON! Join us for an evening of summer breezes, cool drinks, fantastic food, great networking and prizes! Business cards highly recommended and needed to win door prizes.

7/8/2015 The First Step to Small Business Success 9:30 - 11:30 am, St. Vincent College Small Business Development Center, Latrobe. stvincent.edu/sbdc 7/8/2015 Evening Expedition: Fireflies Front and Center Powdermill Nature Reserve 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA 15677724.593.6105. carnegiemnh.org Join us weekday evenings at Powdermill for seasonally relevant interpretive hikes and activities. Topic: Fireflies Front and Center The Laurel Highlands are a firefly hotspot. Join us at Powdermill to see the spectacular light show of summer.

7/9/2015 to 7/12/2015 Disney’s Tarzan The Geyer Performing Arts Center 111 Pittsburgh St., Scottdale, PA 15683724.887.0887. geyerpac.com July 9th-11th at 7:30 & 12th at 2:30 - The timeless story of the King of the Apes told through the music of Phil Collins.

7/9/2015

22 - July 2015

Taste of the Neighborhood-Welcome to Margaritaville Latrobe Art Center 819 Ligonier St., Latrobe, PA 15650724.537.7011. latrobeartcenter.org Join us for an evening of sampling a variety of local food!

7/10/2015 to 7/26/2015 Johnny Appleseed Freeport Theatre Festival 2498 White Cloud Rd., Leechburg, PA 15656724.295.1934 freeporttheatrefestival.org Freeport Theatre Festival will host an Appleseed Revels along with a new play with music Johnny Appleseed, written by Rennick Steele.

7/10/2015 to 7/10/2015 Movie in the Park Veterans Park 814.472.8414 ebensburgmainstreet.com 7/10/2015 Keystone Park - Wetlands Waddle 1150 Keystone State Park Rd. Derry. 724-668-2939 www.dcnr.state.pa.us Meet us at Davis Run Trailhead to see why Wetlands are vital for the survival of certain animal species as well as a multitude of other things! We will discuss all of these roles wetlands play while we go on a brief hike to wetland here in the park and see what we can find in this unique ecosystem! 1:30 pm.

7/10/2015 Keystone Park Dusk Movie “Night at the Museum - Secret of the Tomb” 1150 Keystone State Park Rd. Derry. 724-668-2939 www.dcnr.state.pa.us Grab the blankets, snacks and especially the family; come to Keystone State Park for the Friday night walk in movie. The park will be playing a variety of movies (PG or less) at the beach house.

The movies will be shown on a projector screen outside on the lawn. So grab your blankets, chairs and make sure that you dress for the weather. But most importantly bring the whole family for a great time at the park. So, come early to grab a seat!

Movie starts at 8:30 pm, but time may vary depending on when it gets dark. Movies will not be shown in inclement weather. We would like to thank the Beach House Volunteers and Family V ideos of Latrobe for the movies that are shown.

7/11/2015 to 7/11/2015 Friends of Ohiopyle Monthly Volunteer Day Ohiopyle State Park 124 Main St., Ohiopyle, PA 15470. dcnr.pa.gov Every month, the Friends of Ohiopyle head out for trail work, plantings, invasives attacks and other necessary and rewarding volunteer pursuits.

Why not join them?

7/11/2015 Keystone Park - Home Depot 1150 Keystone State Park Rd. Derry. 724-668-2939 www.dcnr.state.pa.us Come and join in the fun at Keystone State Park beach house. Home Depot will be here along with Keystone’s camp hosts and staff to make crafts (crafts are limited). 11 am - 1 pm

7/11/2015 Keystone Park - Butterflies of the Night 1150 Keystone State Park Rd. Derry. 724-668-2939 www.dcnr.state.pa.us Meet us at the Amphitheatre to learn that moths seem to be a misunderstood species. Join us to learn why these creatures are so crucial to our ecosystem and why they really are butterflies of the night! 8:45 pm 7/1/2015 1st Annual Foggy Mountain Beer & Music Fest 2pm-6pm on the grounds at Foggy Mountain Lodge. Tickets are limited and are $35 per person with a portion of the proceeds going to Action for Animals. Tickets are on-sale now, call 724-5931000 to purchase tickets. Your ticket Includes custom sampling glass, samplings of beer, picnic food buffet, as well as live music from popular local band SWITCH playing from 2-4pm and Radio Station WHJB with music from 4-6pm. Beer samples to include Rivertowne, Four Seasons, Leinenkugel, Penn Brewery, Shipyard, Small Town Brewery, North Country Brewing and more!

7/11/2015 Wine Fest Laurel Arts 214 S. Harrison Ave., Somerset, PA 15501814.443.2433. laurelarts.org Enjoy an afternoon of fine wine, fine art, music, crafts, and foods on the grounds of The Philip Dressler Center for the Arts, in Somerset, PA. A celebration of the wineries of the Southwest Passage Wine Trail. Join us under Laurel Arts’ big tent for an evening of wine, food, and conviviality.

7/12/2015 American Red Cross Ride for the Red 7:30 am - 5 pm; West Newton to Pittsburgh’s Southside Works. One-day 32- or 64- mile cycling trip along the Great Allegheny Passage Rails to Trails. Red Cross: 724-834-6510 crowdrise.com/ridethesteeltowntrail 7/12/2015 11th Annual 5K Bushy Run Trail Run/Walk Bushy Run Battlefield 1253 Bushy Run Rd., Jeannette, PA 15644724.527.5584 bushyrunbattlefield.com Mark your calendars! The 11th Annual 5K Bushy Run Trail Run/Walk will once again take runners and walkers through a hilly, winding 3.1 mile trail.

7/12/2015 Keystone Park - Snake Hike 1150 Keystone State Park Rd. Derry. 724-668-2939 www.dcnr.state.pa.us Meet us at the Beach House and come along this 1.5 mile hike while we talk about PA snake species. We will discuss what makes these animals unique and important. We will also talk about what to do if bitten by a snake while we look for some in the wild! 11:30 am.

7/12/2015 Antiques & Collectibles Market Historic Hanna’s Town 809 Forbes Trail Rd., Greensburg, PA 15601. westmorelandhistory.org Antiques Historic Hanna’s Town has hosted its popular Antiques & Collectibles sales for 40 years! This longstanding community tradition brings together more than 100 vendors in a quaint

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

and historic setting. A variety of one-of-a-kind items covering a wide price range are featured at each sale. Good buying and selling opportunities abound for lovers of antiques and collectibles and anyone seeking vintage items that are not available at department stores.

7/13/2015 to 7/17/2015 Fort Kids Camp II Fort Ligonier 200 S. Market St., Ligonier, PA 15658724.238.9701. fortligonier.org Day camp for kids who have completed grades 1-6 (ages 6-14). Pre-registration required.

7/13/2015 Dwight Yoakam The Palace Theatre 21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg. 724.836.8000 thepalacetheatre.org Dwight Yoakam is an American singersongwriter, actor and film director, most famous for his pioneering country music. Popular since the early 1980s, he has recorded more than 21 albums and compilations, charted more than 30 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, and sold more than 25 million records. Yoakam has recorded 5 Billboard #1 Albums, 12 Gold Albums and 9 Platinum Albums, including the Triple Platinum This Time. In addition to his many achievements in the performing arts, Yoakam is also the most frequent musical guest in the history of The Tonight Show.

7/13/2015 to 7/17/2015 Summer Arts Camps 2015: Camp #3 Christmas in July- Mr. Grinch Latrobe Art Center 819 Ligonier St., Latrobe, PA 15650724.537.7011. latrobeartcenter.org Help Buddy and his elves create the Town of Seussville for the Latrobe Art Center’s Window Display (December of 2015). Students will create

“ WHERE QUALITY & ACTION CUST OMER SA TISF CUSTOMER SATISF TISFA STILL MATTER! ”

Seussville using a variety of mixed media for 2D and 3D projects. It’s going to be a great Holly Jolly Christmas in July... one you don’t want to miss.

7/13/2015 Book Club Graceful Aging Wellness Center 135 Kalassay Dr., Ligonier, PA 15658724.238.2142 Get lost in a good book and enjoy guided discussion to reflect and think deeply.

Participants purchase their own books (we’re reading The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce). Book club meets on Mondays from 5:00pm – 5:45pm at Graceful Aging Wellness Center’s new Lifelong Learning Center. Free for Graceful Aging Members/Silver + Fit; $5 for Non-Members/Silver Sneakers. Call 724-238-2142 to register.

7/14/2015 to 7/16/2015 Princesses in the Park-Meet Cinderella and Rapunzel Idlewild and SoakZone Route 30 East, Ligonier, PA 15658724.238.3666. idlewild.com Two of your favorite princesses, “Cinderella” and “Rapunzel”, will greet guests daily, July 14 16, at the Hillside Theater Stage.

7/14/2015 to 8/4/2015 Art Journal Class Graceful Aging Wellness Center 135 Kalassay Dr., Ligonier, PA 15658724.238.2142 Make meaning with words, art, prompts, and poetry. Relieve stress and anxiety and be creative.

Class meets on Tuesdays from 3-4 PM at Graceful Aging Wellness Center ’s new Lifelong Learning Center. Cost: $5 supply fee. $5/session registration fee for non-Graceful Aging members/Silver Sneakers. No registration fee for Graceful Aging members/Silver + Fit. Attend some or all of the sessions.Call 724-238-2142 to register.

7/15/2015 to 7/15/2015 Tiny Wonder Time-”On the Seashore” Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve 744 Walzer Way, Latrobe, PA 15650724.537.5284. wpnr.org Nature play hour for children ages 2-4 with an adult. Will include a nature hike or outside activity (weather permitting), two interactive activities or experiments, a craft, and a story.

Online Registration Required.

7/16/2015 to 7/16/2015 Nature Book Club: Prodigal Summer Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve 744 Walzer Way, Latrobe, PA 15650724.537.5284. wpnr.org Join WPNR and other book enthusiasts for a group discussion on seasonal books that are based on nature and the environment. Light refreshments will be provided.

7/16/2015 - 7/19/2015 St. Bartholomew Catholic Church Festival and Crabtree Fireworks Route 119 in Crabtree, PA. stbartholomewcrabtree.org 724-834-0709.

Mass, procession and fireworks will highlight the festival tribute to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

There will also be entertainment by various groups as well as game and food booths.

• Events begin Thursday, July 16th, at 5 p.m.

• Fireworks will be held July 18th at 10:30 p.m.

Events July 19th will include a processional Mass at 10:00 a.m. honoring Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Concessions and grounds will be closed Sunday.

7/16/2015 iPad Tips & Tricks Graceful Aging Wellness Center 135 Kalassay Dr., Ligonier, PA 15658724.238.2142

• Preventative Maintenance & Cleaning • Furnace & AC Service & Installations • 24-Hour Emergency Service • Residential & Commercial • Free Estimates

It’s Getting Hot Out There...

AC unit broken down?

We offer 24-hour emergency service – just call!

call today:

724-757-4348

We’re always on call! www.ridgeviewheating.com ridgeview.heat.ac@gmail.com

Every Story Begins At Home.

July 2015 - 23

Join us for a fun exchange of tips & tricks for using your iPad. Explore basic use of your iPad to help you email, browse the Internet, find apps that will make life fun, and much more. Bring your iPad, power cord, and tips & tricks to share.

Choose the time that best fits your schedule: 2:303:30 PM or 5:30-6:30 PM. Class meets at Graceful Aging Wellness Center ’s new Lifelong Learning Center. Free for Graceful Aging Members/Silver + Fit; $5 for Non-Members/Silver Sneakers. Call 724238-2142 to register.

7/17/2015 26th Annual GLLV Golf Classic Arnold Palmer’s Latrobe Country Club. 10 am.

Happy Hour & Silent Auction - 4 pm; Dinner, 5 pm.

7/17/2015 2014-2015 Classic Film Series: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid State Theatre Center for the Arts 27 E. Main St., Uniontown, PA 15401724.439.1360. statetheatre.info Play a crazy game at every movie sponsored by The Herald Standard for a chance to win prizes!

7/17/2015 to 7/18/2015 Flea Market, Craft Show, Yard Sale, Direct Sale Etc Jager and Friends Dog Park Behind Georgian Place off Lake Road across from Farmer’s Market, Somerset, PA 15501814.701.2885 somersetdogpark.org 4th Annual Event to benefit the dog park. This is our biggest event, don’t miss it!! The sale is at the dog park, behind Georgian Place in Somerset at the intersection of Georgian Place and Lake Road. This park is supported by community donations and volunteer run events. Bring your dog too. Come to buy, have lunch, play in the park and get to know the Jager and Friends Dog Park and its team of volunteers. We boast a very wide assortment of vendors with lots of very close parking. Saturday the Farmer’s Market is just across the lane. VENDORS ARE WELCOME, CALL 814.701.2885 and ask for Judy. Cost is $30 for the week end. See you there!

7/17/2015 Get Outside Nature Hike Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve 744 Walzer Way, Latrobe, PA 15650724.537.5284. wpnr.org Tag along with Nature Reserve staff as they get some fresh air and hit the trails to see what the outdoors bring that day.

7/17/2015 to 7/19/2015 Somerfest Laurel Arts 214 S. Harrison Ave., Somerset, PA 15501814.443.2433. laurelarts.org A Somerset County tradition, Somerfest combines food, music, arts and crafts in a family-friendly atmosphere. This event supports Laurel Arts.

7/17/2015 to 7/18/2015 Summer in Ligonier Arts & Crafts Ligonier Valley Chamber of Commerce 120 E. Main St., Ligonier, PA 15658724.238.4200. visitligonier.com Enjoy arts, crafts, horse-drawn carriage rides, merchant sidewalk sales, kettle korn, kids activites, balloon artists, face painting and more!

7/18/2015 20th Anniversary ParentWISE Ice Cream Blast Kirk S. Nevin Arena. 724.837.5410 x737. fswp.org At the ParentWISE Ice Cream Blast guests receive homemade cake and vote on their favorite Dairy Queen ice cream among 8 sponsored and renamed flavors. Families can visit over 50 booths hosted by community groups & businesses and enjoy free games and crafts. There is exciting entertainment on stage, including a visit this year from an African Penguin with the National Aviary.

Guests may also purchase additional donated

24 - July 2015

food items and raffle tickets for great prizes.

Sponsored by the City of Greensburg and Dairy Queen at Lynch Field. Tickets at door – Adults $5, Children $3 – Noon to 4pm 7/18/2015 to 7/19/2015 Mary Poppins State Theatre Center for the Arts 27 E. Main St., Uniontown, PA 15401724.439.1360. vendini.com This Summer the State Theatre brings you our production of Mary Poppins, the High Flying Musical Extravaganza! Bring the whole family to enjoy the classic story of everyone’s favorite nanny! Featuring local performers under the direction of John Wagner, III, this show will be Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

7/18/2015 Laurel Hill Adventure Race Laurel Hill State Park 1454 Laurel Hill Park Road, Somerset, PA 15501. performance-kayak.com The race is a two-mile kayak, eight-mile run, and 5K trail run through the park.

7/18/2015 to 7/19/2015 Living History Compass Inn Museum 1382 Route 30 East, Laughlintown, PA 15655724.238.4983 compassinn.com 7/19/2015 5th Annual Classic Car Cruise Bushy Run Battlefield 1253 Bushy Run Rd., Jeannette, PA 15644724.527.5584 bushyrunbattlefield.com Love sleek classic and custom automobiles?

Have a classic or custom vehicle to show off to the public? Now’s your chance! Bushy Run Battlefield is once again opening its parking lot to classic and custom cars, trucks, or modified vehicles.

Enjoy classic cars, live music, food and drink, 50/50 raffle, and more!

7/20/2015 Adult Art Classes-Marci Mason Watercolor Class Latrobe Art Center 819 Ligonier St., Latrobe, PA 15650724.537.7011. latrobeartcenter.org Join Marci, for an Intermediate to Advance, one day watercolor workshop. This learning experience will leave you with a finished painting to take home.

7/20/2015 to 7/24/2015 Slime and Scales Camp for 6-7-8 Year olds Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve 744 Walzer Way, Latrobe, PA 15650724.537.5284. wpnr.org Children will enjoy a week of learning and adventure as they explore the slimy and scaly world of amphibians and reptiles. Native toads, salamanders, frogs, turtles, and snakes will visit throughout the week as children learn about these cold-blooded creatures. Campers will create themed crafts, and explore the natural areas of Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve in search of these fascinating creatures.

7/21/2015 to 7/23/2015 Marvel Super-Hero Days Idlewild and SoakZone Route 30 East, Ligonier, PA 15658724.238.3666. idlewild.com Our Marvel Super-hero Days continue as Hulk and Thor appear daily, July 21, 22, and 23 at the Hillside Theater Stage.

7/21/2015 to 8/2/2015 Nana’s Naughty Knickers Mountain Playhouse 7690 Somerset Pike, Jennerstown, PA 15547814.629.9201 mountianplayhouse.org Bridget and her Grandmother are about to become roommates. However, what Bridget saw as a unique opportunity to stay with her favorite Nana in New York for the summer quickly turns into an experience

she’ll never forget. It seems her sweet Grandma is running an illegal boutique from her apartment, selling hand-made naughty knickers to every senior citizen in the five borough area! Will Bridget be able to handle all the excitement? Will her Nana get arrested - or worse! - evicted?

7/22/2015 In the Field with Polar Bears Graceful Aging Wellness Center 135 Kalassay Dr., Ligonier, PA 15658724.238.2142 Travel to Churchill, Manitoba, the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.” Learn about the Arctic ecosystem, polar bear natural history, and how residents have adapted to live with polar bears walking through their town. Find out how climate change may affect the bears and what is being done to save their sea ice habitat. This one-time exclusive talk meets from 3:00-4:15 PM at Graceful Aging Wellness Center ’s new Lifelong Learning Center. Free for Graceful Aging Members/Silver + Fit; $5 for Non-Members/Silver Sneakers. Call 724238-2142 to register.

7/23/2015 Summer Blooms Forbes State Forest 1291 Route 30, Laughlintown, PA 15655724.259.2201. dcnr.pa.gov Enjoy the summer wildflowers on this 3 mile intermediate trek on the Roaring Run Trail. This hike has many stream crossings so please come prepared for technical terrain (and possibly getting wet)! This is a thru-hike so shuttling will be provided. Meet at the large parking lot off of Fire Tower Road. *Registration is required. Please register online or by contacting 724-259-2201 or rachristie@pa.gov.

7/24/2015 Downtown Shutdown Downtown Ebensburg High & Center St. ebensburgmainstreet.com 7 pm to 11 pm, be sure to bring your chairs, blankets, and beverages 7/25/2015 Car Cruise & Corn Cook-out Schramm Farms & Orchards 1002 Blank Rd., Jeannette. 724.744.7320 schrammfarms.com A summer classic celebration with seasonal farm fresh foods and refreshments, music by DJ Matt Krause, 50/50 Drawing, Chinese Auction, Door Prizes, Special Trivia & “Christmas in July” Prizes.

Fun for the entire family with “The A-Train”, Blow Up Slide and Children’s Play Area.

7/25/2015 Ebensburg Homecoming Ebensburg PotatoFest Main Street, Ebensburg, PA814.472.8780. ebensburgmainstreet.com Ebensburg Homecoming was started in the summer of 1997 for the Ebensburg Bicentennial celebration. Since then, it has become a yearly tradition. Every July, the community gets together to celebrate the summer months and welcome former Ebensburg residents home. The celebration consists of many different events and gets bigger and better every year!

7/25/2015 Evil Ways-Tribute to Carlos Santana The Arcadia Theater 1418 Graham Ave., Windber, PA 15963814.467.9070. arcadiatheater.net A performance by Evil Ways includes all of the Santana hits, performed with authenticity and exuberance that will bring audiences to their feet in appreciation. Stunning instrumentals, highenergy drumming and percussion, a live horn section and of course the legendary sound of the guitar, all come together to bring the SANTANA concert experience to life for an event you will not soon forget! Evil Ways approaches each

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

memorable Santana tune with a dedication and motivation to making each performance perfect.

Blues circuit legend Mike Goldberg has an uncanny ability to recreate the style and sound of Carlos Santana’s fabled guitar.

7/27/2015 to 7/29/2015 Three Day Intensive Beginner’s Weaving Workshop Foster and Muriel McCarl Coverlet Gallery 300 Fraser Purchase Rd., Latrobe, PA 15650724.805.2188 mccarlgallery.org Mon, Tues, and Wed. July 27, 28, 29 2015 11 a.m.3 p.m.Three-Day Intensive Beginner’s Weaving Workshop Location: Gristmill $75 Fee In this three day workshop, Brother Mark Floreanini, O.S.B., Professor of visual arts administration at Saint V incent College, will teach participants the basics of weaving and loom work. The classes will be held in the weaving workshop in the College’s historic Gristmill. Br. Mark holds an M.F.A. from Savannah College of Art and Design and is an avid weaver and spinner. The workshop fee includes all three days and all materials. Space is limited and reservations are required.

7/27/2015 to 7/31/2015 Why America is Free Camp Fort Ligonier 200 S. Market St., Ligonier, PA 15658724.238.9701. fortligonier.org An immersive experience for students who have completed grades five through eight and have a passion for history!

7/27/2015 to 8/2/2015 Summer Arts Camps 2015: Camp #4 The Art of Dr. Seuss Latrobe Art Center 819 Ligonier St., Latrobe, PA 15650724.537.7011. latrobeartcenter.org Are you a Poet and you don’t know it? Latrobe Art Center is partnering with Write Local to create a unique, imaginative way to combine art and writing!

7/28/2015 to 7/30/2015 Princesses in the Park-Meet Snow White and Beauty Idlewild and SoakZone Route 30 East, Ligonier, PA 15658724.238.3666. idlewild.com Join us July 28 - 30 as we welcome two more beautiful princesses to Idlewild. “Beauty” and “Snow White” will greet guests at the Hillside Theater Stage.

7/30/2015 to 8/8/2015 Fayette County Fair 132 Pechin Rd., Dunbar, PA 15431724.628.3360 fayettefair.com As a showcase for agricultural events, the Fayette County Fair has been providing a venue for

Every Story Begins At Home.

education and a variety of entertainment for 61 years. What started with a group of progressive farmers in 1955, as a small local festival, has grown into the best single event for the summer, and one of Fayette County’s most beloved traditions. V isitors from the Tri-State area come to enjoy the pleasure of being entertained by the variety of good talent, and shows of all kinds.

Local residents, family and old friends reunite to celebrate the valuable hard work of our local farmers. The pay one price admission, assures each fair goer of experiencing the event he/she most wants to see.

7/30/2015 to 8/2/2015 Stoystown Lions Antique Tractor Festival 359 North Club Rd., Stoystown, PA 15563814.341.9593. stoystownlions.org Come join us... Stoystown Lions 15th Annual in conjuction with Laurel Highlands Antique Power Club presnts Antique Tractor Festival.

7/30/2015 to 8/16/2015 St. Vincent Summer Theatre: Moon over Buffalo St. V incent College 300 Fraser Purchase Rd., Latrobe, PA 15650724.537.8900. stvincent.edu All productions are directed by our new Artistic Director, Greggory Brandt, and are located in the spacious, air-conditioned Performing Arts Center of the Robert S. Carey Student Center on the campus of Saint V incent College, U.S. Route 30, Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

7/31/2015 Steelers Fest at Latrobe 12-6 pm Memorial Stadium. Food, vendors, activities, Steelers Alumni autographs, and the traveling Great Hall exhibit.

7/31/2015 Family Story Time Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve 744 Walzer Way, Latrobe, PA 15650724.537.5284. wpnr.org A Free Family program, for all ages, which includes reading a story together in the barn and exploring the grounds while completing a scavenger hunt.

8/1/2015 to 8/2/2015 252nd Anniversary Battle of Bushy Run Bushy Run Battlefield 1253 Bushy Run Rd., Jeannette, PA 15644724.527.5584 bushyrunbattlefield.com Our premiere event for the year pits the forces of his Royal Highness King George III against a confederation of Native Americans. See all the

colors of war in the vibrant recreations of the twoday battle of Bushy Run that the various reenactors bring to life. Learn about how the battle progressed as well as how people lived in the mid-eighteenth century.

8/1/2015 Sidewalk Flea Market Irwin Business & Professional Association downtown Irwin. irwinborough.org Everything old is new again, and you don’t need to drive from house to house. Everything is located conveniently in downtown Irwin! Plan to find your treasure, or sell one you no longer need.

8/2/2015 Free Summer Concert Series Twin Lakes Park 219 Twin Lakes Park, Latrobe, PA 15650724.830.3959. co.westmoreland.pa.us Mike Porembka & The Polka Pals, 4:00pm - 6:00pm 8/2/2015 to 8/28/2015 Mt. Davis Challenge Confluence Cyclery 500 Hughart St., Confluence, PA 15424814.926.2840. visitconfluence.info The Mt. Davis Challenge Road Race is a 40-mile race that traverses the highest point in Pennsylvania.

The course is lollipop style that starts in Confluence, PA and utilizes the hilly back roads of the Mt. Davis area and climbs to an elevation of 3213ft.

8/3/2015 to 8/7/2015 American Red Cross Bike for Life 724-872-8748, wwwarcbike4life.org, 724-834-6510 5-day, 300-mile ride from West Newton to Washington DC along the Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O tow path. Fundraiser for the American Red Cross, $1000 donation.

8/4/2015 Graham Nash The Palace Theatre 21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg, PA 15601724.836.8000 thepalacetheatre.org Legendary singer-songwriter known for his light tenor voice and his songwriting contributions with the British pop group The Hollies, and with the folk-rock super group Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.

8/4/2015 Joyful Noises! Featureing Ricky Howsare Rockwood Mill Shoppes & Opera House 450 Main St., Rockwood, PA 15557814.926.4546 rockwoodmillshoppes.com Opera House favorite Ricky Howsare returns with a gospel & variety show. A musical variety

July 2015 - 25

26 - July 2015

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Every Story Begins At Home.

July 2015 - 27

that takes us through songs that inspired classic artists like Elvis, Johny Cash, & Mearl Haggard will please music purists and gospel lovers alike.

8/5/2015 Yakov Smirnoff The Palace Theatre 21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg. 724.836.8000. thepalacetheatre.org Audience members will enjoy Yakov’s insightful and laughter--filled philosophy on life, love, family and country. New York Times called his one man show, “warmhearted, delightful and splendidly funny.”

8/7/2015 Concerts in the Park Penn Eben Park E. High St., Ebensburg, PA 15931814.472.8780. ebensburgmainstreet.com Live Music by Jill & Leah Gontkovic 8/7/2015 Family Night Motordrome Speedway 164 Motordrome Rd., Smithton, PA 15479724.872.0203. motordrome.com Motordrome Speedway is a 1/2 mile paved, asphalt track located in Smithton, PA. Motordrome is the only NASCAR Sanctioned Speedway in Southwestern, PA and has over 40 years of a rich, storied HISTORY and tradition. Motordrome runs every Friday Night from late April through early September and is conveniently located directly off of the highly trafficked I-70 just south of Pittsburgh.

8/7/2015 to 8/15/2015 Oklahoma!

Ligonier Theatre: Home of the Valley Players of Ligonier 208 W. Main St., Ligonier, PA 15658 ligoniertheatre.com. Every weekend 8/8/2015 The Mon Ducky Race BARC Flatiron Building Museum 69 Market St., Brownsville, PA 15417. barcpa.org

28 - July 2015

An annual fundraiser in July in which any local organization or individual can sponsor a Ducky for only $5 per duck in order to win prizes. 1,000 Ducks are released into the Mon River at the Wharf in Brownsville. There are five places and prizes for the first five duckies that cross the finish line.

8/8/2015 45th Annual Somerset Antique Show On the streets of uptown Somerset Somerset, PA 15501814.445.6431. somersetpa.net Celebrating our 45th year! More than 100 dealers on the streets of Somerset, exit 110 of the Pa. Turnpike. Includes antiques and collectibles, food vendors, and an antique & classic car show.

Enjoy uptown antique shops.

8/8/2015 Happy Together Tour The Palace Theatre 21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg. 724.836.8000. thepalacetheatre.org The acclaimed yearly summer tour that is going into its 6th consecutive year delivers hit after solid gold hit, artist after solid gold artist, alongside a top-notch multi-media production celebrating that unique time in culture and music.

The unprece-dented lineup includes The Turtles Featuring Flo & Eddie, The Association, Mark Lindsay formerly of Paul Revere and the Raiders, The Grass Roots, The Buckinghams and The Cowsills.

8/8/2015 Savor the Avenue Greater Connellsville Chamber of Commerce 100 S. Arch St., Connellsville, PA 15425724.628.5500 greaterconnellsville.org This year’s Savor the Avenue will take place August 8th, 2015 with a rain date of August 15th.

The theme will be Mardi Gras. This year’s entertainment will be provided by The Sammy Brooks Band and a performance by The Carpetbag Brigade.

8/9/2015 Car Show Keystone State Park 1150 Keystone Park Rd., Derry, PA 15627. dcnr.pa.gov Join us for the First Annual Friends of Keystone State Park Car Show, near the park’s pavilion #1, for incredible cars, fantastic food and a great time! Rain date is August 17, 2014.

8/9/2015 Antiques & Collectibles Market Historic Hanna’s Town 809 Forbes Trail Rd., Greensburg, PA 15601. westmorelandhistory.org The gate opens officially at 7:30 Sunday morning, and the market continues through early afternoon, although, many vendors are set up by 1:00 p.m. Saturday and sell that afternoon. There is parking on site; admission is $3 per car. Parking revenues are divided equally between the Salem Twp Volunteer Fire Dept. No. 2 (Forbes Road) and the Westmoreland County Historical Society who administers Historic Hanna’s Town for Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation. Sorry, but no pets are permitted on site.

8/9/2015 to 8/15/2015 Mountain Area Fair Farmington Volunteer Fire Department Fairgrounds. mtareafair.com Come out and enjoy all the shows, area events, games, food and amusements. The fair is located off of Route 40 in Farmington, PA. We are also known at Farmington Volunteer Fire Department. Mountain Area Fair has been in operation since 1967. We will be having our 48th fair in August of 2015.

8/12/2015 Kentuck Knob’s Farm to Table Dinners Frank Lloyd Wright’s Kentuck Knob 723 Kentuck Rd., Chalk Hill, PA 15421724.329.1901 kentuckknob.com We are delighted to announce that Kentuck Knob and Fish Hawk Acres are joining forces to offer

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

visitors an exciting and exceptional opportunity that combines a guided tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s house on Kentuck Knob, followed by a delicious Appalachian dinner on the beautiful grounds.

8/13/2015 to 8/17/2015 Summer Art Camps 2015: Camp #5 Daniel Tiger & Friends Week Latrobe Art Center 819 Ligonier St., Latrobe, PA 15650. latrobeartcenter.org It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood with Daniel Tiger and friends. Celebrate a week of creating artwork to display within Mr. Rogers Neighborhood.

8/14/2015 2014-2015 Classic Film Series: Dirty Dancing State Theatre Center for the Arts 27 E. Main St., Uniontown, PA 15401724.439.1360. statetheatre.info Play a crazy game at every movie sponsored by The Herald Standard for a chance to win prizes!

8/14/2015 Concerts in the Park Penn Eben Park E. High St., Ebensburg, PA 15931814.472.8780. ebensburgmainstreet.com Live Music by Never Enough 8/14/2015 Italian Day Festa Idlewild and SoakZone Route 30 East, Ligonier, PA 15658724.238.3666. idlewild.com Known as the “BEST FAMILY ITALIAN FESTA IN THE COUNTRY,” this festival celebrates Italian heritage and culture with great entertainment and delicious food. Visit “La Cucina”, featuring several Italian food vendors, or listen to the non-stop musical entertainment from Noon until 9:30 pm. We end the evening with a beautiful fireworks display accompanied to the music of Sinatra, Dean Martin, Lou Monte and other Italian favorites! Discount tickets for this event are available through numerous Columbus 500 ticket outlets. Call 724-238-3666 for more details.

8/14/2015 Night at the Fort Museum Secrets of the Fort Fort Ligonier 200 S. Market St., Ligonier, PA 15658724.238.9701. fortligonier.org Our museum comes alive during this entertaining, interactive evening! New this year, an overnight option! (Call for details and reservations) 8/14/2015 One Night with You Rockwood Mill Shoppes & Opera House 450 Main St., Rockwood, PA 15557814.926.4546 rockwoodmillshoppes.com Celebrated Elvis Presley tribute artist Walt Sanders returns with his acclaimed show, One Night With You. Walt has refined his show and we can’t wait to see what he brings this year.

8/14/2015 The Stroll Ligonier Valley Chamber of Commerce.

724.238.4200. visitligonier.com On the Diamond.

Stroll into the fabulous ‘50s with oldies music, dancing, live entertainment, and classic cars.

8/14/2015 to 8/30/2015 Hay Fever Freeport Theatre Festival 2498 White Cloud Rd., Leechburg, PA 15656724.295.1934 freeporttheatrefestival.org Presenting Nöel Coward’s Hay Fever. One of his best loved comedies, as light and crisp as a glass of chilled champagne. Directed by Marushka Steele.

8/15/2015 to 8/16/2015 Laurel Hill Bluegrass Festival Laurel Hill State Park 1454 Laurel Hill Park Rd., Somerset, PA 15501814.445.7725. friendsoflhsp.org

Every Story Begins At Home.

Music, food, crafts, re-enactor village, children’s activities - and admission is FREE! 8/15/2015 to 8/16/2015 Laurel Highlands Garlic Festival Faranda Farm 1171 Penn Ave., Hollsopple, PA 15635814.479.7109. farandafarm.net Come Celebrate the Miracle of Garlic “The Stinking Rose”

MATINEE SCHEDULE

8/15/2015 to 8/16/2015 Living History Compass Inn Museum 1382 Route 30 East, Laughlintown, PA 15655724.238.4983 compassinn.com. Proctor’s Militia 8/15/2015 36th Annual Murrysville Community Day Murrysville Community Park, 4056 Wiestertown Road, Export, PA 15632 Live entertainment, great food, a petting zoo, kids’ water zone, car cruise, more than 60 exhibitors, the Murrysville Market featuring local crafters, artisans, farmers’ market vendors and so much more make this the event you don’t want to miss! As always, admission is free and don’t forget to plan to stay for the fabulous fireworks display!

Don’t Forget These Ongoing

Summer Events!

Latrobe Farmer’s Market – TUESDAYS Latrobe Community Revitalization Program Legion Keener Park, Latrobe, PA 15650 724.805.0112 latroberevitalization.org 724-805-0112. Noon to 4 pm.

(Thru October 21) Keystone State Park Farmer’s Market – TUESDAYS 1150 Keystone Park Rd., Derry, PA 15627. dcnr.pa.gov 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. Vendors are welcome, cost to set up is $10 per table. (Thru September 27) Central Westmoreland Farmers Markets Greensburg, PA. TUESDAY afternoons, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., 516 Donahoe Road (parking lot by the Nature Trail and Red Barn). SATURDAY mornings, 9 a.m. to 12 noon, Lynch Field Parking, Rt. 119 N. by the Kirk S. Nevin Ice Arena (address: 520 New Alexandria Road.)

Lincoln HighwaySupperMarket – WEDNESDAYS Lincoln Highway Experience 3435 Route 30 East, Latrobe, PA 15650 724.879.4241. 5-8 pm lincolnhighwaysuppermarket.org. (Thru August.)

Murrysville Farmers Market – THURSDAYS Murrysville Volunteer Fire Company, 3235 Sardis Road, Murrysville, PA 15668. 3-7 pm Summer Sounds – FRIDAYS Concerts are held in the Robertshaw Amphitheater at St. Clair Park located at the intersection of N. Maple Avenue and E. Otterman Street in the City of Greensburg. 7 pm. summersounds.com Johnstown Farmers Market The Downtown Johnstown Farmer's Market runs every FRIDAY from 9 am until 2 pm at Central Park on Main and Franklin Streets, and Gazebo Place in Downtown Johnstown. The West End Farmer's Market runs every TUESDAY from 3 until 6 pm Senior Life Parking Lot on Broad Street, Route 56 in Cambria City. (Thru October) Ligonier Country Market – SATURDAYS Corner of West Main St. & Springer Rd., Ligonier, PA 15658. ligoniercountrymarket.com

1966 production of “THE RARE BREED” Starring Jimmy Stewart, Maureen O'Hara, and Brian Keith.

Saturday, July 5, - 1 to 4 PM 1968 production of “FIRECREEK” Starring Jimmy Stewart, Henry Fond, and Inger Stevens.

Saturday, July 11, - 1 to 4 PM 1950 production of “WINCHESTER ‘73” (July 12 is the 65th release anniversary) Starring Jimmy Stewart, Shelley Winters, and Dan Duryea.

Sunday, July 12, 1 to 4 PM 1968 production of “BANDOLERO” Starring Jimmy Stewart, Raquel Welch, and Dean Martin.

Saturday, July 18, - 1 to 4 PM Sunday, July 19, - 1 to 4 PM 1970 production of “THE CHEYENNE SOCIAL CLUB” Starring Jimmy Stewart, Shirley Jones, and Henry Fonda.

Saturday, July 25, - 1 to 4 PM Sunday, July 26, - 1 to 4 PM 835 Philadelphia St. in Indiana, PA 724-349-6112 www.jimmy.org

Located on the Loyalhanna Watershed Farm near the intersection of West Main Street and U.S. Route 30 Ligonier, PA. 8 am to noon (Thru October 3) Somerset County Farmer’s Market – SATURDAYS 800 Georgian Place Dr., Somerset, PA 15501 somersetcountyfarmersmarket.com 9 am to 1 pm.

(Thru November 21) 4th Street Market – SATURDAYS Irwin Business & Professional Association irwinborough.org. 4th & Main, under the arch Vendors bring you the freshest produce this side of the farm, along with unique food and treats only found in Irwin.

Free Summer Concert Series – SATURDAYS/SUNDAYS Twin Lakes Park and Cedar Creek Parks.

724.830.3959. co.westmoreland.pa.us. Cedar Creek, Sundays at 4 pm in outdoor amphitheater. Twin Lakes, Expansion Area amphitheater, as scheduled.

66th Annual Summer Band Concerts – SUNDAYS Live music on the Ligonier Bandstand every Sunday evening at 7 p.m. In case of bad weather, the concert is moved indoors into the Town Hall auditorium. (Thru August 30). visitligonier.com

July 2015 - 29

END NOTES

by Cathi Gerhard

“A true friend unbosoms freely, advises justly, assists readily, adventures boldly, takes all patiently, defends courageously, and continues a friend unchangeably.”

–William Penn

Have I Told You Lately?

I made a big deal out of free speech on page three with my history lesson and lecture on storytelling. But I saved most of my emotions for this End Notes column, which is where they belong each month.

Most people refer to the First Ammendment as the right to disagree and argue.

Not a day passes that I don’t see protests on television or political ranting on social media. Some section of the world is always at war, tearing apart someone else. What ever happened to the old adage “if you haven’t got anything nice to say, say nothing at all” I am a member of a local networking group (BNI) that requires a referral or a testimonial from everyone at each meeting. Recommending a business to another colleague helps them succeed. Your endorsement for another member of the group should also be written down so that it can be saved or used to promote their business. That positivity and spirit of active altruism keeps me coming back each week.

We communicate kindness to others in many ways, not just written and verbal. Our actions, it’s been said, speak even louder. I searched the internet and several books to help compile a list of ways we can express the affection we feel, yet seldom share.

I encourage you to try, even a few, of my favorites: • Express your gratitude. Saying “thank you” and “please” are like the oil that lubricates the engine of human interaction. Works every time!

• Reach out to a person in need.

Do you know someone who is ill or in hospital? Reach out by choosing one of these: send them a text message, phone them, send flowers, send a card.

• Pay for the person behind you at the drive thru. Whether it be a coffee or a whole meal. Make sure to stay anonymous and relay a friendly message to the person like “Have a nice day!” or “Spread kindness and pay it forward.”

• Leave a gift for someone in a random public place such as on a park 30 - July 2015

bench, at a bus stop, the library, a coffee house, or restaurant. You can even stick around and catch them finding your gift to see their reaction!

• Praise someone at work for a job well done when the occasion arises. Best to do this in front of other coworkers or his or her boss.

• Tutor a younger person in reading.

You can find a local literacy volunteer organization through a Google search on “Literacy Volunteers Your State.”

• Stop complaining for a week. This is probably the kindest act of all! Spreading negativity drags people down. Concentrate on the positives for a week. You will be pleasantly surprised.

• Invite someone to dinner. Choose a co-worker or neighbor who you feel is rather lonely and offer them your hospitality.

• Listen to someone who has a problem. Being a good listener is a great sign that you can display empathy and warmth.

Just listen and try not to interrupt with advice. There will be other opportunities for that.

• Give away your favorite book. You have read that book loads of times.Time to give it away. Leave it on the bus or train, with a note inside saying why you think it is a gem.

• Buy a dozen donuts or bagels for a sports team at a local school, a firehouse or police station.

• Hide notes of encouragement in your spouse’s or child’s lunch box or in a coat pocket, shoes or other place where he or she will receive this nice little surprise.

• Sincerely compliment someone every day, whether it be their physical appearance, their character, or what they’ve accomplished in spite of difficulties.

• Forgive someone who has wronged you. This can be difficult and challenging, but making amends either in person, in writing or in your thoughts, can have a transformative effect on your life.

• Always keep your word. This is one of the kindest things you can do, especially when it comes to arriving on time to parties, appointments, and to meet friends or family. Being your word, acting in line with what you say, is a true expression of respect towards others.

• Show affection. Show people you love that you really mean it. A hug, a kiss, a gentle pat on the back or any sign of affection will be appreciated.

• Be a modern Johnny Appleseed.

Be inspired and plant a few trees/plants/ bushes/flowers in the neglected areas of your neighborhood.

• Talk to a shy person. Have you ever noticed how shy people struggle at social gatherings? Try a little act of kindness just by talking to them. You could be surprised at what you discover.

• Driving with kindness. Lots of opportunities here. Waving a pedestrian across the street or stopping to let a car park.

• Hold the door open. No matter who it is, hold the door open.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Laurel Mountain Post Distribution Guide

Pick Up a Copy at Your Favorite Location!

The new Greater Latrobe-Laurel Valley Visitor & Information Center, located on Route 30 below Sharky’s Cafe, is the main hub for each new issue release.

However, we will continue to distribute copies in your neighborhood at the following 300+ locations across Westmoreland and surrounding counties: Derry Area Action for Animals Allison Chiropractic AmeriServ Financial Barkley's Derry King Building Bodeez Caldwell Library Chef Dato's Derry Medical First Commonwealth Bank Hansen & Torba - Dentists Jean Marie Flowers & Gifts Laundromat Mastrorocco's Market New Derry Municipal Authority Palombo's Restaurant S&T Bank State Farm Insurance Sugar Bears Sunoco Route 22 DELMONT Center for Rehab Svcs Chestnut Ridge Excela Ciggy’s Tobacco Cogo’s Delmont YMCS Execela Health PT Holiday Inn Express Hot Rod Lounge (Spaghetti House) Lamplighter Salem Plaza Laundry SuperCuts Three Rivers Six Pack Shop Wagonwheel Restaurant Watson Chevrolet EXPORT Artisita Salon Choice Gas Station Claire Bridge Memory Care Cozy Inn Murrysville Music Murrysville Rehab Pgh Chiropractic Restella Dance Studio MURRYSVILLE Eye Doc Aluring Designs Salon Chaye Coffee and Tea Dancer’s Closet Dean’s Fitness Dick’s Diner Dr. Abraham/Dr. Gill Duff Park Info Center Eat n Park En V Salon Focus Hair Design Golden Living Ctr Healing Arts Bldg Hoss’s Walnut Shops Library Borough Building Nature Nails New Horizons Counselors Panera Panther Chiro pt Therapy S&T Bank Scott Medical Sportszone Standard Bank Starbucks SuperCuts UPMC Partners in Health Various Prof Agencies West Historical Society Yoga Flow Donegal/Jones Mills BP/McDonald’s - turnpike Brady’s Dairy Queen Days Inn Donegal Pharmacy

Every Story Begins At Home.

Hardware Store Holiday Inn Express Honeybear Tall Cedars The Inn at Ligonier Sarnelli’s Greater Latrobe/Unity Twp Adams Memorial Library Arnold Palmer Regional Airport Barnes House Chestnut Ridge - Bursch Division Chicora's Chris Pakos, CPA Christ UC Church Coffee Bean Commercial Bank - Downtown Commerical Bank - Route 981 D’s Windy Cottage Dainty Pastry Denny's Doggie Divas Dunkin Donuts Eat n Park Excela Health Quick Draw The Eyeglass Shoppe Fantastic Sam's Four Seasons Brewing Co. Gino's Pizza Gyno Associates Hanna Insurance Dr. Scott Hudimac Jerald Jewelers Joe's Store - Lawson Heights L&L Quik Lube Dr. Patrick Lally Latrobe Animal Clinic Latrobe Art Center Latrobe Hardware Latrobe Hospital & Little Shop Latrobe News Stand - Downtown Latrobe News Stand - Laurel 30 Laurel Highlands Village Latrobe Post Office Lincoln Highway Experience Loyalhanna Care Center McCarl Coverlet Gallery The Medicine Shoppe Drs. Mucci & Campfield, DDS My Fitness Kitchen Neighborhood Visitor & Info Ctr Pizza Siena ProAdjuster Chiropractic Roadman's Country Living Rose Style Shoppe Rusbosin's Furniture S&T Bank Sanctus Spa & Salon Scotty G's Senior Center Shop n Save SpringHill Suites St. Vincent College St. Vincent De Paul St. Vincent Gristmill Store Unity Township Building, Library UPMC Vascular Institute Valley Dairy - downtown Valley Dairy - Route 30 Vasco Federal Credit Union WCNS/Unity Building Westmoreland Federal Westmoreland Historical Society Wigs n More Wingate Greensburg Barnes & Noble Courtyard by Marriott Café Barista Cellar Door Café Couture Salon DV8 Espresso Bar & Gallery Gateway Convenience Rt. 66

Getty’s Grill Greensburg Library Greensburg News Greensburg YMCA Hampton Inn Holiday Inn Jioio’s, Carbon Mr. Bones Rt. 66 Nature’s Way Old 66 Grill PC Connect Pizza Siena Ramada Inn Senior Life E. G’burg Shop n Save Sun Dawg Café Downtown The Medicine Shoppe Vittone’s Music Westmoreland Athletic Club Westmoreland Hospital White Rabbit Café Ligonier Valley A Touch of Grace Abigail's Coffee Amica BP Insurance Barb's Market - Rector Berkshire Hathway Carol & Dave's Roadhouse Celtic Culture Connections Cafe Darlington Inn Davies Real Estate Diamond Cafe Diamond Hair Cuts Equine Chic Excela Health First Commonwealth Bank Flavors Cafe Fox's Pizza Get Go Giant Eagle Gino's Howard Hanna Real Estate Laughlintown Pie Shoppe Ligonier Chamber of Commerce Ligonier Country Market (in season) Ligonier Library Ligonier Outfitters/Newstand Ligonier Tavern Ligonier Valley Railroad Museum Ligonier Vallery Real Estate Loyalhanna Realty Mack M. Darr Main Exhibit Gallery Modern Elegance On the Diamond Antiques The Paper House Ramada Inn Rosalia Jioio's Little Italy Ruthie's Diner Scamp's Toffee Second Chapter Books Subway Thistledown/Bo Peep The Toy Box The Twisted Vine

Vernon Realty Services Valley School of Ligonier Wicked Googly YMCA Laughlintown Compass Inn/Historical Society First Commonwealth Bank Ligonier Country Inn Pie Shoppe Washington Furnace Inn New Alexandria BP - 819 crossroads First Commonwealth Grabiak’s Johna’s Hair Salon Kaufman's Chiropractic Keystone Pharmacy Keystone State Park Kids Care Pediatrics Library Quik Stop Sheetz Stahlstown Flax Scutching Festival Hardware Store Loyalhanna Veterinary Clinic Main Street Wine Bar Mt. Pleasant and Southern Westmoreland County Market Kraisinger's Market Lenox Leo's Mt. Pleasant Library New Stanton Boro Bldg Sandhill Berries YMCA Youngwood Adams Hardware Advance Auto Parts First Commonwealth Bank Hadens Pharmacy Helpers Hardware The Pet Market S&T Bank Senior Center Shop n Save True Value Hardware Youngwood Corner Market Youngwood Library Allegheny County Allegheny General Children's Hospital Downtown Hotels Manchester Bidwell Monroeville Library Pleasant Hills Library Strip District merchants Squirrel Hill businesses UPMC Hospitals: Monroeville, Presbyterian, Mercy, Shadyside, Hillman

Cambria County (Johnstown) Comfort Inn & Suites Dancer’s Closet East Hills Family Pharmacy Holiday Inn - Downtown Holiday Inn Express - Richland Nature's Habitat - Galleria The Sleep Inn Fayette County Adrian's - Hopwood Braddocks Inn Restaurant Chalk Hill Flea Market Miller’s Grocery Store Nemacolin Inn - Farmington Ohiopyle Falls Ohiopyle Pub Summit Hotel - Route 40 Indiana County BLAIRSVILLE Cokeville Produce Market Comfort Inn Dean's Diner Hampton Inn - Chestnut Ridge Senior Center Sheetz CLARKSBURG Shaulis Convenience Market INDIANA 119 Professional Center The Artist's Hand Book Nook The Coventry Inn Cucina Mia Diamond Drug Downtown Indiana Association Hampton Inn Dr. Hilliard & Tarnoff Indiana Chamber of Commerce Indiana County Tourism Bureau Indiana Hospital Lobby Indiana Free Library Indiana University of PA Jimmy Stewart Museum Rustic Lodge Starbucks SALTSBURG exclusively at: Saltsburg Pharmacy Somerset County JENNERSTOWN Green Gables/Mtn Playhouse Our Coal Miners Cafe Three Rivers Dental SOMERSET AREA Comfort Inn Eat n Park Econo Lodge Hampton Inn Holiday Inn Express Mountain Craft Days Oakhurst Tea Room Sheetz (route 31) Somerset Family Eye Care Somerset Historical Center Summit Diner Quality Inn

We would like to thank our advertisers and distributors for their support of this magazine, which makes it free to the community.

Please remember to shop local as often as possible and spread the word that you “saw it in the Laurel Mountain Post!”

July 2015 - 31

32 - July 2015

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST