Laurel Mountain Post - Summer 2012

LAUREL MOUNTAIN

POST WONDER WOMEN!

The Untold Story of American Superheroines Anchors Away!

Ruthie Richardson’s Memory Lane

A Serenity of the Mind Laurel Highlands Trout Trail

Swinging into Comfort

Latrobe’s New Landmark Locale

Bantam Jeep

Butler History and Heritage FREE – SUMMER 2012 Cover Photo of Lynda Carter from Wonder Women! by Kristy Guevara-Flanagan

Where Have We Been?

I have lots of old comic books stored in our barn, the bulk of which are Wonder Woman issues from the late 70s and early 80s. It’s no secret that she is one of my favorite fictional characters.

And while I struggle to fulfill that strong, feminist role my childhood culture defined for me, I also realize it’s an idealized fantasy, an unwinnable reality tournament.

Even Wonder Woman threw off her tiara and quit a few times.

trusted to rest if such distractions are available. Attention was needed in order to re-group, evaluate and heal.

In many ways, the last year was more difficult than the one before. I was no longer ignoring my problems – I was facing them. And the reflection in that particular mirror was pretty ugly.

First off, I had gained 60 pounds from a combination of steroid injections,

In February 2011, I made the difficult decision to suspend publication of the Laurel Mountain Post. Many of you read our online announcement, but it went something like this: “It is with mixed emotions that I write to all of you regarding the future of our publication. I will no longer be publishing the Laurel Mountain Post as a quarterly, printed magazine.

Many factors have contributed to this decision throughout the past year: economic decline in paid advertising markets, increased printing costs, my son’s diagnosis and continuing struggle with Crohn’s disease, and my own issues of rehabilitation following my broken back and spinal fusion surgery a year ago.”

I managed to hold it together (quite literally) for that first year after I broke my back – with the help of friends and family. Blinded by my amazonian attitude, I kept going despite the serious circumstances surrounding me. I never gave my body a suffucient chance to heal; my son’s Crohn’s disease was reaching a critical point, and the economic slump was quickly catching up with my own business. I finally realized that sometimes the smartest thing to do in battle is to withdraw.

So I retreated to my own Paradise Island, Fairview Farm. We turned everything off: no professional email, phone or correspondence. I can’t be Every Story Begins At Home.

continued back problems), I developed a plan for everything. Small successes kept me motivated and moving forward. We tackled one thing at a time instead of trying to juggle the chaos bubbles smothering my atmosphere.

I am indeed breathing easier now.

Taking control has a way of making things flow a bit more smoothly. Almost back to my fighting weight, I am excited about reviving the Laurel Mountain Post. Most exciting of all is the fact that Wonder Woman herself, Lynda Carter, is on our cover!

She has been portrayed by different people on TV and film, in comic books and graphic novels, etc. But there’s only one Wonder Woman for me, and I suspect most of my generation. Not only was Lynda Carter the most beautiful woman our young eyes had ever seen, but her portrayal humanized the invincible amazon. She showed us that despite the angry, bra-burning, and other manly images of the feminist movement, we could be strong and still be girls – wear dresses, fall in love, smile and be kind to people.

Wonder Woman #269 (July, 1980)

forced inactivity and self-pity. Second, my son would no longer get out of bed – a combination of his disease and depression had taken hold. And last, I had to figure out how to survive financially without really being able to work and contribute much to the family income.

My emotional bank account was quite overdrawn. I spent a lot of time trying to relax and focus, repeatedly taking off in my invisible jet only to crash land. Finally, with the help of my husband and our family doctor (rather than the litany of specialists who had passed me around trying to solve my

The cultural influence of such female icons is explored in a new documentary film called Wonder Women! The Untold Story of American Superheroines. My daughter introduced me to the project, and she shares it with you on pages 12-14. It includes interviews with Lynda Carter, Gloria Steinem and Lindsay Wagner (TV’s Bionic Woman, with whom I have a growing kinship as more titanium parts are added to my skeleton).

But most importantly, I am proud to introduce a new writer to you: my daughter, Elizabeth – a wonderful woman who became a strong, independent, and sweet girl despite all my mistakes as a young mother. I think she may be destined to inpire her own generation . . .

– Cathi Gerhard Summer 2012 - 1

We're Saving A Great Deal for You! facebook.com/LaurelMountainPost pinterest.com/LaurelMtnPost @LaurelMtnPost foursquare.com/LaurelMtnPost

Ligonier Valley Cottages 75 Lincoln Highway Route 30 Ligonier, PA 15658 724-238-9696 www.ligoniervalley.com

Are you ready to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and your work week?

Then Ligonier Valley Cottages are for you!

Come stay with us, in our quaint country cottages, nestled in the middle of scenic Laurel Valley - a beautiful setting for a getaway any time of the year!

We’ve been having fun with all the new digital content out there.

Hope to see you online with us!

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POST

Buy One Ad Get One Free For Your Favorite NonProfit Organization!

only in the Laurel Mountain Post!

Call us at 724-537-6845 for more information about our GrantInk program.

2 - Summer 2012

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Dreams With Deadlines

Ligonier Valley Velo is a new Cycling Club in Pennsylvania ‘s Laurel Highlands.

LVV is a place for riders of all ages and abilities to further their development as cyclists.

LVV believes that cycling promotes a healthy life style for individuals and builds strong bonds between participants. LVV has partnered with the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disorder Association to raise funds and awareness of CMT. Cycling is excellent therapy for those affected by CMT as it promotes strengthening and stretching of the feet and lower legs.

Since our first issue in the fall of 2004, the Laurel Mountain Post has gone through a lot of changes – some obvious, and others more subtle. We’ve met and parted with many staff members over the years; changed our paper from dingy newsprint to a glossy cover with bright inside pages; evolved through rapidly-changing communications technology; experienced financial loss, death, illness and injury; and known many successes, as well as failures, throughout it all.

After a year-long hiatus, we return to publication in 2012 with a revitalized vision to tell our stories from the heart of Western Pennsylvania . . . in a creative, educational and credible medium based on the following fundamentals:

LVV/CMTA is looking for riders of all ages and abilities who are interested in promoting the sport of Cycling in the Ligonier Valley Velo / CMTA participates in competions in Western Pa, West Virginia, and Maryland. We are looking for riders of every skill and age level to join us. Dont worry if you are new to the sport, we will share our knowledge and ease your entry into the fun and thrilling world of bicycle racing

Ligonier Valley Velo 1155 Turkey Inn Road Ligonier, PA 15658 724-787-9733 ligoniervalleyvelo@yahoo.com Meets every Saturday at 9:00 am, Edible Kneads Parking Lot 337 West Main Rear Street in Ligonier, PA

Community As a regional publication, our focus is on the small towns and neighborhoods of Westmoreland County and the surrounding Laurel Highlands. We promise to feature the people, places and things that shape our lives here – past, present and future. Over the past several years, the Laurel Mountain Post has generated a sense of ownership among readers who turn the pages and see stories by and about their friends, relatives and neighbors – and created a credible environment not driven by profits and corporate ownership of the media. We will continue that rare and valuable tradition of truly publishing a magazine by the people, for the people.

337 West Main Street Rear in Ligonier www.ediblekneads.com 724-238-3810 • ediblekneads@gmail.com

Faith A stalwart belief in positive and encouraging ideas continues to guide our editorial process. Our writers will seek to represent the unique and meaningful qualities found in our everyday lives – aspects cached in both the extraordinary as well as the commonplace.

Cultivation The Laurel Mountain Post will support community goals by developing new partnerships, implementing a matching grant program for nonprofit advertising, and participating in volunteer groups. Giving back will be our priority, rather than an afterthought.

Every Story Begins At Home.

HOMEMADE

creamy spreads flavorful breads delicious bagels Stop in for a visit and build your own gourmet deli sandwich with creamy spreads, soup, or one of our many sweet treats.

Summer 2012 - 3

Anchors Away Ruthie Richardson’s Memory Lane

Jimmy Buffett was the salty dog who serenaded us with those words of longing, but they could also qualify as the siren song for the two most important men in my life, my father and my husband.

Although he never learned to swim, my daddy always had an affinity for the sea. Being landlocked in good old Derry did little to sooth his seafarer’s soul, neither did my mother’s very tight budget.

Daddy loved boats. On our annual summer jaunts south to Miami to visit my Grandma Veda and the rest of Daddy’s family, we always made a trip to a marina, strictly for ogling purposes. I remember all of us piling into the car on those steamy afternoons and driving over to Coconut Grove, Dinner Key Marina to see how the ‘other half’ lived. More importantly, daddy wanted to see what kind of ships those lucky dogs were sailing.

Daddy and I would stroll up and down the public docks. I would relish an afternoon of rubbing shoulders with the ‘upper crust’ of the Yacht Club, and daddy would covet all of their dazzling yachts. I remember walking past Monty Trainer’s Restaurant and wishing we could stop for lunch, but their prices were way over our budget, and besides, Grandma Veda probably had a pot roast in the oven. Thank goodness she always had some scrumptious dish cooking, as our vacation budgets didn’t allow for much eating out.

One early spring day, back in good old Derry, daddy made the announcement that we would be getting 4 - Summer 2012

a boat. My brother and I looked at each other in utter amazement, and then turned our gaze quickly to mom.

She smiled, and said yes, it was true.

She informed us that daddy had sent for a boat kit, complete with plans and he would build it himself. My first thought was, “Wow, my dad is just like Noah!”

One of my dad’s best friends at Derry Westinghouse was Bill Ober.

Bill had a boat of his own, and several times we had gone boating at Raystown Lake with him, his sweet wife Louise, and most importantly, his two cute sons, Jay and Frannie. I remember watching those boys water ski, and how impressed I was. I was only about 10 or so, and they were teenagers. Needless to say, I followed them around trying to get their attention, and they completely ignored skinny little me. Bill also had a big garage beside his house on Third Street in Derry, where he did auto repairs. He offered daddy the use of the back part of his garage along with his help on what they must have considered a boat-building extravaganza.

Every day after work and on weekends, my dad would be over at Bill’s garage, painstakingly working on his project. I imagine that daddy’s favorite television show, Crunch and Dez, was a constant inspiration for him. It was the story of Crunch Adams, played by Forrest Tucker who was captain of the charter fishing boat, Poseidon, and his partner, Des (short for Desperate) Smith, played by Sandy Kenyon. Every week the producers would tempt all the landlubbers like my dad with a breathtaking cinematic spectacle of boating in the tropical waters off the coast of South Florida. And for good measure, they would add a smidge of drama to the program, otherwise it would have pretty much been a half hour infommercial for Chris Craft, for tourism in Miami, and for charter boat captains everywhere. Much to my mother’s chagrin, between this show and another favorite, Sea Hunt, starring Lloyd Bridges, daddy’s yearning for the ‘sailing life’ was subconsciously cultivated two nights a week.

Mom made no bones about her fear of the water. She had never learned to swim either, and her insecurities about drowning were fixated on my brother and me. She insisted that we learn to swim at swimming lessons, taught by Mr. Grote at the Derry Swimming Pool. Mr. Grote would bestow an award on you when you proved you could swim the entire length of the pool – 3 foot to 5 foot.

That much-coveted trophy was a little LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

green Heinz pickle pin. That little pickle, once firmly attached to your bathing suit, also granted you permission to go off both diving boards. Even after we had tangible pickle pin proof of our proficiency, it didn’t matter to mom. When we went in the water, at Raystown, at Loyalhanna Dam or at Kingston, she would insist we wear our orange life vests.

They had white canvas straps that gave us brush burns on our sides, and little metal hooks that cut into our chins. And don’t even get me started on how much they weighed. Although it seemed like they could float a tanker, the amount of water they took on was truly impressive. Those waterlogged Mae Wests could hang on the clothesline all night long and still be dripping by morning. And if you took them off to have lunch or take a little break, beware the big freeze when you put them back on. I know there had to be a scientific anomaly involved because that orange canvas must have contained some sort of ice forming material. Ah, yes, how well I recall the swimming pleasures of my youth and how I loved it when my mom would tether me into a 50 pound, half-frozen jaggy orange straightjacket …. those were fun times.

When the final stages of the Parrish/Ober boat construction came to a close and the boat was deemed sea-worthy, daddy and Bill found a used Johnston 45 H.P. motor and bolted it to the stern. She now held the promise of being able to skim along the water at lightning speeds.

We towed her behind our ’56, twotoned blue Chevy to her first launch on the Loyalhanna dam. I remember daddy backing the trailer into that murky orange water and setting his brand new homemade yacht adrift.

Mom held the line while daddy parked the car and trailer. I’m sure she also held her breath at the prospect of that first tryout. I just know she was wondering if all the glue was dry and if the sealer would hold.

When first mate mom had completed her pre-boarding checklist by diligently strapping us in, clipping Every Story Begins At Home.

our hooks and trussing us up in those big orange life jackets, she gingerly climbed aboard, with my brother and me in tow. After a quick 10 or 12 pulls on the manual rope starter and a puff of blue smoke, daddy succeeded in treating us to the first nautical roar of that old Johnson. His pride and joy was ready to prove her seaworthiness. And prove it she did, with countless boating adventures throughout those long ago, lazy summer weekends. The days we spent at the Loyalhanna Dam were so much fun.

Mr. Bush, the owner of the marina, provided a snack bar at the top of a big hill above the parking lot and boat launch. And although mom always packed a picnic lunch for us, sometimes we were allowed to run up that hill to buy a Popsicle.

Daddy managed to ‘adopt’ a pair of used water skis and my brother would ski up and down the lake, with mom always ‘Officer Of The Watch.’

Somewhere along the way she gave herself a promotion. Daddy may have been the Captain, but mom was the Admiral.

I never got up enough nerve to try water skiing. My main job was to help my daddy sail the ship. Daddy was never able to save enough money for a steering wheel for the boat, so he sat in the back, steering it by the tiller handle, and I always sat back there with him. The Loyalhanna was full of all sorts of submerged dangers, mainly fallen trees with their entangled roots. At least once every trip we would have a close encounter with one of those roots. I remember hearing that familiar clunk and watching the motor bounce out of the water. That clunk was always followed by a mild expletive uttered through my dad’s clenched teeth.

When one of those submerged Loyalhanna Dam surprises was encountered, the shear pin would snap, saving the propeller from damage. That’s when the chief engineer, who was also my dad, would have to raise the motor and change that shear pin. Sometimes this would happen more than once in a single day. It’s why the swabbie (that would

be Ruth Elaine) always had to be at the ready. My primary duty was digging into his little onboard tool kit to fish out those shear pins.

I can still see the smile on my handsome daddy’s face as he navigated his craft through those dangerous waters and how proud I was of him. The wind would ruffle his hair, and with his helmsman hand firmly on the controls, I like to think his unspoken command was “steady as she goes.” This was also the way he navigated his family through the years, with a steady hand and a watchful gaze. He and my mom steered us through many a storm, always keeping us safe, and I miss them both so much.

There is also a little side note to this story. During that long-ago shipbuilding adventure at Ober’s garage in Goosetown, there was a little boy in the neighborhood who was absolutely fascinated by the spectacle.

He would hang out there every chance he could, watching the progress. And every day of that progress nurtured his newly emerging boat-obsession.

It fostered his dreams of one day cutting through the ocean swells on a sloop of his own. That little boy’s dream was realized not long ago. I know this because that ornery, freckle-faced kid from Goosetown grew up to be my husband, Doug.

Several years ago, when Doug finally got his beloved Bayliner, his excitement was palpable. It was truly a childhood dream realized. But there was a melancholy image that muted some of his joy. For he would be captaining his ship into open waters without the one person who had continued on page 6

Summer 2012 - 5

continued from page 5

cultivated this love of boats all those years ago, his much-admired mentor and true co-captain – my dad. Daddy could not be there that day to share this long awaited maiden voyage. So I guess it’s my job to try to take his place, unworthy as I may be. Funny thing is, we both know he is always there with us. We feel his presence just assuredly as we feel the sea spray on our cheeks, and the warm sun on our faces. And to evoke the stirring words of Van Morrison, with a wistful smile, we sail into the mystic …

Ruthie loves to share memories with you.

Email her at: Ruth-Elaine@comcast.net, look for her on Facebook, or join our LMP online community to read her new blog!

Happy 10th Birthday Latrobe Art Center!

Latrobe Art Center is turning 10 years old and we need your help! On June 15th, 2012 we will be celebrating our birthday with a huge indoor & outdoor party! We need a very UNIQUE, CREATIVE cake! So we decided to hold our very first CAKE DECORATING CONTEST! Please read the official contest rules below to see how you can enter and possibly be the NEXT LAC BAKER! Official contest rules and instructions are available at the center, 819 Ligonier Street in Latrobe or www.latrobeartcenter.org

Parents often talk about the younger generation as if they didn’t have anything to do with it. ~Haim Ginott

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LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Lig onier Eq ue er Ligonier Eque uesstrian Cent Center

Boarding • Leasing • Sales • Training • Lessons for All Disciplines * Horses Provided or Bring Your Own

Located at Dare to Dream Farm, Inc. 4068 Route 711 in Ligonier, PA 724-925-8061 • www.ligonierequestrian.com

Summer in Westmoreland County History May 8, 1970 Westmoreland County Community College founded The main campus of the college is located in Youngwood. Approximately 6,500 students ranging in age from 17 to 75 take advantage of their programs which include 54 associate degrees, 13 diplomas, and 48 certificate programs with options that prepare students for careers or transfer to baccalaureate degree programs at four-year institutions.

To provide access to quality educational opportunities to area residents, the college operates six off-campus education centers - AlleKiski Center, New Kensington; Armstrong County Center at Lenape Tech, Ford City; Bushy Run Center, Export; Greene County Education Center, Waynesburg; Indiana County Center, Indiana; Laurel Center, Latrobe; Fayette County Center, Uniontown; and Mon Valley Center, Belle Vernon - that serve all of Westmoreland, Armstrong, Greene and Indiana counties.

May 16, 1775 Hanna’s Town Resolves Before any other colonies took a stand, residents of Hannas’s Town resolved to arm and to resist tyrannical acts of the English Parliament. It was on May 16, 1775 that several men, along with Arthur St. Clair, gathered at Hanna’s Tavern, Every Story Begins At Home.

which was also serving as the local courthouse, and signed their names to this document in which they agreed to bind themselves together and to take up arms if necessary to resist further “tyrannical” acts of Parliament. This was the first such declaration in any of the British colonies, and it was more than a year later that the Declaration of Independence would be signed in Philadelphia.

May 21, 1937 Eleanor Roosevelt Visited Norvelt Eleanor Roosevelt visitied Norvelt on May 21, 1937. According to the Richard Robbins article in the Tribune Review of June 13, 2009, she inspected the town and several homes. “Out of the depths of the Great Depression, Norvelt — named for its greatest champion, first lady Eleanor Roosevelt — gave refuge to 250 young families, including hundreds of children who are custodians of its legacy.”

June 6, 1812 Greensburg Riflemen volunteered for service in War of 1812 There were several companies formed here a few years before the war, when trouble was brewing and war clouds were overhanging America. The most prominent one of these companies was a

rifle company in Greensburg, of which John B. Alexander was the leading spirit as well as the captain. This company was organized by authority of Thomas McKean, governor of Pennsylvania, in 1807, and was enlisted for four years. In 1811 their time had expired, and another commission was issued by Governor Simon Snyder, authorizing Alexander to raise another company. The second was largely composed of re-enlistments from the first.

Alexander himself had been brought up in the military town of Carlisle, where from long before the Revolution the -government had continuously kept a barracks. He had therefore from boyhood imbibed a martial spirit. In four years he had drilled his company most completely, so that when the war at last came he had ready for the field a company of thoroughly drilled men. Alexander himself was a lawyer of high standing at the Westmoreland bar. Some have thought proper to write him as the ablest lawyer who has yet practiced regularly before the Westmoreland courts. Being only about eight years at the bar before the war of 1812, his great prominence as a lawyer was achieved mostly after its close.

For more entries like these, visit Westmoreland County Historical Society at:

www.starofthewest.org Summer 2012 - 7

Ligonier Valley Writers’ Conference to Take Place July 21 The 25th Ligonier Valley Writers’ Conference will take place at the Westmoreland County Community College in Youngwood on Saturday, July 21. Four renowned faculty members will work with both emerging and experienced writers. As always, workshops will be offered in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. This year there will also be a workshop on humor writing.

Anna Davidson Rosenberg Award for Poems on the Jewish Experience, he teaches creative writing and literature at Clarion University of Pennsylvania, where he directs the Spoken Arts Reading Series. Occasionally Philip also performs his poetry with the jazz band Catro. He co-directs the Chautauqua Writers’ Festival and is contributing editor for poetry for Chautauqua.

• Humor writing: Chris Rodell is among the world’s most widely read freelance writers and the only one who’s had simultaneous articles published in Playboy, Cooking Light, Esquire, Golf, Sports Illustrated, National Enquirer and the South China Morning Post, a combined readership in excess of 97 million. He is the author of several books, including Use All the Crayons! The Colorful Guide to Simple Human Happiness. He provides content for www.arnoldpalmer.com and was pleased when Arnold Palmer himself provided the foreword to his self-help book. For the National Enquirer, Chris once gained 20 pounds in one week on the Elvis Presley diet. His blog, www.EightDays ToAmish.com, is a happy trove of offbeat humor.

• Nonfiction: Lorena Williams is a writer, teacher, outdoors enthusiast, and traveler. She grew up on a farm out West. Her life and writing are anchored in nature, family history, and rural living. Lorena writes about the high desert and her adventures as a wildland firefighter, hiker, and enthusiastic wanderer whose recent travels have taken her to Turkey and Norway. Lorena received her MFA in nonfiction from Chatham University, where she now teaches writing, literature, and ESL. Her work has appeared in Touchstone and will soon appear in The Fourth River Journal and Exclosures Anthology. She received honorable mention in The Atlantic Student Writing Contest and won third place in the Torrey House Press Nonfiction Contest.

• Poetry: Philip Terman’s books of poetry include The Torah Garden; Rabbis of the Air; Book of the Unbroken Days; and The House of Sages. His poems have appeared in many journals, including Poetry, The Georgia Review, The Kenyon Review, The Sun, and Prairie Schooner. Recipient of the Kenneth Patchen Award, the Sow’s Ear Chapbook Prize, and the

• Fiction: Sherrie Flick is author of the novel Reconsidering Happiness (which was a semifinalist for the VCU Cabell First Novelist Award) and the flash fiction chapbook I Call This Flirting. Her work appears in many literary journals and anthologies, including the Norton anthologies Flash Fiction Forward and New Sudden Fiction and The Rose Metal Press Field

Guide to Writing Flash Fiction. She has been granted fellowships from Sewanee Writers’ Conference, Ucross Foundation, Atlantic Center for the Arts, and Pennsylvania Council on the Arts. She lives in Pittsburgh, where she works as a freelance editor and teaches in Chatham University’s MFA and Food Studies programs. Her blog “Sentences and Food” chronicles the food she makes and the artists who eat at her house.

For a conference brochure, contact Judith Gallagher at jgallagher@LHTOT.com or (724) 593-7294. Registration forms will be available soon at www.LVWonline.org. For those who register before July 15, the cost for the full day’s activities will be $95 for LVW members or $110 for nonmembers. There will be a catered lunch.

To kick off the LVW Conference weekend, Ligonier Valley Writers is hosting a publication party for the 2012 edition of its literary magazine, The Loyalhanna Review. The party will take place Friday, July 20, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Latrobe Art Center (819 Ligonier St. in Latrobe). Loyalhanna Review authors will read from their work. Beautiful paintings and photographs will be on display in beautiful surroundings. Guests will have a chance to talk with the authors and artists whose work is featured in the magazine.

Submissions of both text and art for The Loyalhanna Review are still being accepted. The deadline is May 1. The Review seeks high-quality poetry, essays, and short stories under 1,800 words. For guidelines, see www.LVWonline.org. The Loyalhanna Review has been published continuously since 1991.

Renewed Promise Thoroughbred Rescue Therapeutic Riding for Veterans

Located at Dare to Dream Farm, Inc. 4068 Route 711 in Ligonier, PA 724-925-8061 • www.ligonierequestrian.com

Every Story Begins At Home.

Summer 2012 - 9

Hanna’s Town Antiques & Collectibles Sale Begins 39th Season Historic Hanna’s Town will open the 39th season of its popular Antiques & Collectibles Sale on Sunday May 13.

This longstanding community tradition brings together well over 100 vendors in a quaint and historic setting. A variety of one-of-a-kind items covering a wide price range are featured at each sale. Shoppers can find a unique gift for Mom on this Mother’s Day or bring her along to find her own. Good buying and selling opportunities abound for lovers of antiques and collectibles and anyone seeking vintage items that are not available at department stores.

The gate opens 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

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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.

The Hanna’s Town Antiques & Collectors Market is held the second Sunday of each month May through September. Future dates for 2012 are June 10, July 8, August 12, and September 9. The public is cordially

Office Mailing Address: Laurel Mountain Post | PO Box 332 | Ligonier, PA 15658 Editorial Office: Located at Fairview Farm | 189 Fairview Lane | Derry, PA 15627 Advertising Office: Located at Equine Chic | 100 E. Main Street | Ligonier, PA 15658

Cathi Gerhard - Editor & Publisher Jason Ament - Managing Editor & Advertising Sales Director Megan Fuller - Editorial Consultant Carol Gerhard - Copy Editor • Scott Sinemus - The Ligonier Chef Elizabeth Srsic, Art & Education • Ruthie Richardson - Memory Lane Bruce & Ellen Henderson - Features & Photography Joe Jerich - Features & Photography • Eric Pensenstadler - Video Michelle Schultz - Girl Friday • Gregory Susa - Guy Friday

invited to browse for bargains, enjoy a variety of food booths, and support local history preservation as well as a local fire department at the Antiques & Collectors Market at Historic Hanna’s Town.

Vendors of antiques, collectibles, folk art, and historically-appropriate crafts are welcome to set up for the day or weekend. The vendor fee benefits the Westmoreland County Historical Society’s education and preservation projects at Historic Hanna’s Town, a Revolutionary War period settlement and site of the first English courts west of the Allegheny Mountains.

Historic Hanna’s Town is located at 809 Forbes Trail Road near its intersection with Route 119, 3 miles north of Greensburg. For additional information, call 724-532-1935 or visit www.hannastown.org.

Subscriber Information Print subscriptions will once again be available for $20/year, and will arrive via 1st Class US Mail, handled by our favorite Post Office Pat in Bradenville, PA. We’ve had some issues with slow bulk mail deliveries in the past, so we plan to stuff envelopes and lick stamps from now on! You will receive a copy of each quarterly print edition along with our monthly subscriber coupons. Please send a check with your name and mailing address to: Laurel Mountain Post Subscriptions PO Box 332 • Ligonier, PA 15658 (include email address for online access code)

Bloggers: Elizabeth Srsic, Joanna McQuade, Ruthie Richardson, Hayley Chemski, Cathi Gerhard (www.laurelmountainpost.com) Distribution Team: Doug Richardson, Heather Haines, Bob Raho, Robin Shields, Beverly Struble, Jack Wilson, Jason Ament, Cathi Gerhard The Laurel Mountain Post is an independent, quarterly publication produced at Fairview Farm in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.

724-539-4453 • www.Laurel Mountain Post.com

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LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Registration Now Open for Summer Day Camp in Career Exploration

Sarah Wilson, Senior Consultant swilson@peircepark.com Two University Square, Suite 423 4601 Fifth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Phone: 412.241.1682 Fax: 610.719.8345 Offices in: West Chester, PA & Wilmington, DE

www.peircepark.com

Every Story Begins At Home.

High school students interested in exploring career options should register for Quest 2012: Finding Your Future. Sponsored by the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, Quest 2012: Finding Your Future is a series of summer day camps that allow high school students to learn about their interests and abilities and find out about a variety of related college majors. This is the fourth year for the program, which continues to grow in popularity with regional teens.

Five day camps are scheduled in June. Students may attend one day camp or several. Each day’s activities run from 8:30 a.m. through 4 p.m.

Cost is $25 for each day camp the student attends. Scholarships are available. Information about the scholarships and camps is available at www.greensburg.pitt.edu/Quest. Registration is required and may be completed at that link. Due to the hands-on nature of the camps, enrollment is limited and provided on a first-come, first served basis. Scholarship and early registrations must be received by May 30.

This year’s Quest schedule includes Discovery 101 (Monday, June 18), Animals, Plants, & Minerals (Tuesday, June 19), Business: Start-up to Corporate (Wednesday, June 20), 21st Century Technology (Thursday, June 21), and Human Health & Development (Friday, June 22).

Discovery 101 is a one-day camp designed for the student interested in career-oriented self-exploration. The schedule includes a variety of personality and career discovery activities, an etiquette lunch, and a panel of professionals speaking about a wide range of careers.

The Pathways to Professions day camps are designed for the student with an interest in a particular career area. Students will participate in hands-on activities that provide a sampling of key skills and knowledge to be successful in the field, as well as opportunities to interact with professionals representing a number of different occupations within the field.

Founded in 1963, the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg is a publicly assisted, four-year, liberal arts college in southwestern Pennsylvania. A regional campus of the University of Pittsburgh, which is celebrating its 225th anniversary, Pitt-Greensburg offers 24 baccalaureate degree programs, including new majors in Education and Spanish, as well as 19 minors.

More than 13 percent(PA046680) of Pitt-Greensburg’s 724-238-9273 • 412-951-5579 • Fully Insured full-time faculty—the highest percentage of any University of Pittsburgh campus—have received the prestigious University-wide Chancellor’s Distinguished Teaching Award.

Summer 2012 - 11

Filling A Void in the Pink Ghetto: More Wonder Women by Elizabeth Srsic

When flipping through the television channels, magazine ads, or books in the children’s and young adult section you may find that there is a void. There is a large, gaping hole looming out of the pink ghetto of sex-segregated toy stores

that was once filled by an empowering role model: Wonder Woman. The name conjures an image of stars, action, adventure, and an amazon who stands tall against her foes. During the 70s Wonder Woman was played by

WONDER WOMEN!THE UNTOLD STORY OF AMERICAN SUPERHEROINES is an independent documentary feature that looks at female superheroes, warrior princesses and other icons of women’s empowerment in pop culture. Exploring our nation’s longterm love affair with comic book superheroes, the film raises questions about the possibilities and contradictions of heroines within the genre. Reflecting our culture’s deepseated ambivalence toward powerful women—even in this so-called post-feminist era — women may be portrayed as good, or brave, or even featured as “action babes,” but rarely are they seen as heroes at the center of their own journey.

Tying the film together is the groundbreaking figure of Wonder Woman, the unlikely brainchild of a Harvard-trained pop psychologist. From Wonder Woman’s original, radical World War II presence, to her uninspiring 1960s incarnation as a fashion boutique owner, to her dramatic resurrection by feminist Gloria Steinem and the women of Ms. Magazine, Wonder Woman’s legacy continues today—despite the fact that she has yet to make it to the big screen.

The hero is a key archetype in Western culture, yet heroes have almost invariably been male and white. Twenty-eight centuries since Achilles—arguably the first superhero— the classic heroic archetype remains unaltered: displaying the so-called “masculine” virtues of strength, courage, assertiveness, leadership, physicality, and sometimes violence.

Why are these characteristics considered “heroic”? What happens when women engage in ways of thought and behavior traditionally confined to “masculinity”? Why do most superheroes show little or no talent for communication, family, or empathetic caring?

Why aren’t these values considered heroic, and how do our ideas about heroism reflect our culture’s values? In our era of increased plastic surgeries and emphasis on “looking good,” rather than acting powerfully, many psychologists, media and social critics have long decried the fact that women are bombarded with images of physical perfection and portrayals of their gender purely in terms of sexual attractiveness. It is time to counter this with some reflection on why our culture struggles with images of women triumphant beyond the domestic arena of relationships and family.

This film invites women and girls, men and boys, to consider how stereotypes in the comic art genre serve to limit our vision of women, while reinforcing some of society’s deepest prejudices against them. Exploring how our highly visual culture places more emphasis on girls’ and women’s looks rather than on their deeds, WONDER WOMEN! urges women to claim the action genre— and media in general—as their own, if they want to change how they are represented.

A visually kinetic yet also warmly witty film, the film harnesses the voices of literary critics, women writers, classicists, philosophers, impersonators, collectors, feminists and fanatics to explore our very gendered notions of “heroism” and “power.”

12 - Summer 2012

Lynda Carter on a popular television show of the same name. But what has happened between then and now?

Wonder Women! The Untold Story of American Superwomen is a documentary by Kristy Guevara-Flanagan and Kelcy Edwards which traces the evolution of Wonder Woman from her debut in comics during the 1940s to today. Additionally, the film explores how cultural perspectives of women’s roles have changed over time through comics and other aspects of popular culture by interviewing real-life superheroes like journalist Gloria Steinem and those involved with the Wonder Woman legacy.

In the ‘pink ghetto’, the ‘girls’ section of toy stores, we typically find baby dolls, Barbies of various professions, Disney Princesses, and dressup clothes. Sure, it’s nice to know that little girls can be a mommy or a vet when they grow up, but how do these things help them cope with difficult situations? In the ‘boys’ section, toy stores are lined with action figures of positive role models like GI Joe. The girls are left with Disney pop-stars and Barbie.

“Girls actually need superheroes much more than boys when you come right down to it, because 90% of violence in the world is against females. Certainly women need protectors even more, and what is revolutionary of course is to have a female protector not a male protector.”

Gloria Steinem, from Wonder Women!

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

So how does Barbie protect us?

Barbie, Disney, and baby dolls may inspire young girls to value friendships and dream about their potential future roles, but they do not protect us. Girls need a positive role model who shows them that they are and can be strong.

“I thought it was my job to show women that, this guy’s knocking you around well, you know, knock him back.”

Lynda Carter, from Wonder Women!

If I had the access to records and data, I would like to do a study that correlates watching Wonder Woman and how likely women are to fight back in domestic abuse cases.

Reflecting upon Wonder Women! and the overwhelming lack of strong role models in pop culture has made me grateful for the strong role models and experiences of my childhood. I was lucky enough to have a mother who idolizes Wonder Woman to teach me how to stand up for myself, and Girl Scouts for helping me understand who I am and empowering me to explore my interests. You cannot pick who your mother is, but you can join Girl Scouts.

Through this organization girls become strong together and are encouraged to become leaders.

Whether it’s Girl Scouts, Wonder Woman, or your mother, having a strong positive female role model is essential for all girls and women if we ever want to fill that void in the pink ghetto.

************* Our Q&A with Producer Kelcey Edwards What inspired you to make Wonder Women?

In 2008, Kristy read an article in the New York Times about how the Wonder Women comic was getting its first female (ongoing) writer after nearly 67 years of publication. The fact that this feminist icon had been created by a man and written by male authors fascinated her and led to the concept for this documentary.

Why make this documentary now? (Is it because of the political climate? etc.)

There are many reasons to make the film now! For one, there is still a dearth of female heroes in popular culture, and, as the documentary illustrates, representations of female strength and power continue to be deeply problematic, from comics to TV to blockbuster films. Another benefit to making the Every Story Begins At Home.

film now is that, with the rise in media studies and women’s studies programs, there is a wealth of scholars and academics who are well researched and were an incredible resource for us, both as interviewees and as advisors.

Although it was possible in the past for there to be a successful Wonder Woman T.V. series, now it is impossible to release a feature film or a revamped series. What do you think has changed?

I actually don’t think *too* much has changed. I think then, as now, studio and network executives were reluctant to create films that starred female herofigures because, as Lynda Carter said during her interview, “they didn’t think a woman could carry a show.” I think this false notion still exists, despite the

The Story Stayed with Me Like most women and men of my generation, I grew up with Lynda Carter’s “Wonder Woman” television show. It was the late 70’s, the show was already in the constant rotation of syndication, and there simply wasn’t anything else out there that captured my imagination as a little girl. I had friends who were Wonder Woman for Halloween year after year because there were so few options for girls as fantasy heroes.

When I started telling people about this film, men and women had wildly different reactions. Most of the guys admitted that Wonder Woman was their first TV crush. Women reminisced about how they pretended to be her: twirling a rope to capture foes or spinning to transform themselves into superheroes.

Fast-forward some thirty years, and I was reading a New York Times article that introduced Gail Simone as Wonder Woman’s first female writer EVER. Here was this incredible feminist symbol who had always been stuck, like a lot of strong female characters, between being created by men and being primarily consumed by boys.

The story stayed with me, and I began looking into Wonder Woman’s origins.

Her creator, William Moulton Marston, was a fascinating character who set out to create an empowering role model amid a lot of super-violent male heroes. Of course, he also had some interesting ideas about what a strong female hero should look like. But his creation has endured while so many others have been forgotten.

I loved the idea of looking at something as populist as comics to reveal our cultural obsessions, and in particular, how women’s roles have changed over time. The narratives of our most iconic super-heroes, told and re-told over decades, boldly outline our shifting values. That’s one story WONDER WOMEN! tells, but to me, it’s not the most interesting one. I hope the film also conveys the unpredictable ways those icons can shape and even transform us in return. For some it’s Lara Croft, for others it’s Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but we all need those iconic heroes that tell us we have the power to slay our dragons and don’t have to wait around to be rescued.

– Kristy Guevara-Flanagan Director, Wonder Women!

continued on page 14 Summer 2012 - 13

WONDER WOMEN! continued from page 13

fact that there are recent examples such as Buffy and Hunger Games that prove that audiences want to see these kinds of films.

Do you think your documentary will help rediscover the powerful woman as a pop icon?

We hope so!

I know that Wonder Woman isn’t your only focus in the documentary. What about these other characters and people make them as powerful as the first real female superhero?

The film begins by looking at Wonder Women as the longest-running female superhero. She is our case study, and we explore how her changes, decade by decade, reflect society’s changing values and anxieties about women’s empowerment. We also look at how she opened the door for other female heroes, in comics and other genres.

Wonder Woman is a DC character. Given the latest controversy in the comic world regarding DC and female characters, what are your feelings about focusing on DC’s arguably only strong female?

Will the myriad of Marvel Women make an appearance?

The film is a broad analysis, and we aren’t interested in vilifying DC or any other creators. In fact, kudos to them for keeping her character alive for 70 years! We are interested in looking for correlations. For example, one thing we learned from an interview with Jehmu Green (the former president of the Women’s Media Center), was that only 3% of the decision makers in media are women. We are looking at the lack of female heroes, but we are also looking at the lack of female creators and directors.

Any details yet on mainstream release of the film?

Not yet, but hopefully soon! I will let you know as soon as we can announce our upcoming screenings!

************* This character was going into a man’s world, into a man’s job, but I used to say I didn’t want to be a man running around in a skirt. I wanted to bring up the feminine qualities, the feminine principles in our stories: inclusiveness, conflict resolution . . . as opposed to just concurring or just settling it with physical prowess.

“

”

When the women entered their 20's and 30's I started getting feedback. Now they were saying, ‘You know, I work at NASA. My dad wanted me to go to beauty school, but I work at NASA now. Because your character showed me that I could be something far beyond whatever we ordinarily were on track to be.

Kristy Guevara-Flanagan Director Kristy’s first feature-length film was an acclaimed documentary covering four years in the lives of four adolescent girls. GOING ON 13 was an official selection of Tribeca, Silverdocs, and many other international film festivals. It received funding from ITVS and was broadcast on public television in 2009. Kristy has also produced and directed several short films, including EL CORRIDO DE CECILIA RIOS, a chronicle of the violent death of 15-year-old Cecilia Rios. It was an official selection of the Sundance Film Festival. Now an assistant professor at Diablo Valley College, Kristy has a MFA in Film Production from San Francisco State University.

Kelcey Edwards Producer Kelcey Edwards is an award-winning documentary film maker whose films have screened at many of the topranking festivals around the country, including True/False, Silverdocs, and SXSW Film Festivals. After receiving her MFA in Documentary Film & Video from Stanford University, she moved to New York City, where she works as a filmmaker, producer and arts educator. In June, 2008, she teamed up with director Kristy Guevara-Flanagan to produce WONDER WOMEN!THE UNTOLD STORY OF AMERICAN SUPERHEROINES. She is also the coproducer of WORDS OF WITNESS, a documentary feature by director Mai Iskander (GARBAGE DREAMS) and an official selection of Berlinale 2012.

Funding for the Film Aepoch Fund Cal Humanities Chicken and Egg Pictures The City of Oakland Cultural Funding Program Puffin Foundation Sundance Institute Documentary Film Program Actress Lindsay Wagner, The Bionic Woman

Elizzabeth Srsic is a senior in the Honors College at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, majoring in Art Education. She is a volunteer tutor with the Kids Read program, a lifelong girl scout, and also co-authors a blog on WordPress with Joanna McQuade called Geekalitarian. *All photos from Wonder Women! by Kristy Guevara-Flanagan

14 - Summer 2012

And over $35,000 through Kickstarter from 700-plus individual fans (including staff members of the Laurel Mountain Post)! www.wonderwomendoc.com

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Just What Is

?

Kickstarter is the world’s largest funding platform for creative projects.

Every week, tens of thousands of people pledge millions of dollars to projects from the worlds of music, film, art, technology, design, games, fashion, food, publishing, and other creative fields. Since April 2009, more than one and a half million people have pledged over $175 million to projects by creators who always maintain full ownership and complete creative control of their work. Kickstarter has hosted projects from Academy Award winners, New York Times best-sellers, Pulitzer Prize finalists, and other luminaries, but the vast majority of projects are from people just like you—creative ideas that a person and their community bring to life. Some are big, some are small. Some are serious, some are whimsical. All are welcome.

Kickstarter is the world’s largest funding platform for creative projects.

• • •

More than 1.5 million people have backed projects More than $175 million has been pledged More than 20,000 successfully funded creative projects

Kickstarter is for the funding of specific works that have clearly defined goals and expectations that serve a creative purpose. There are other places on the internet to fund for charity or awareness campaigns, Kickstarter believes creativity deserves its own space.

Creators retain creative control and 100% ownership of their idea on Kickstarter; we’re part of and contributing to a larger movement of creative independence by empowering creators to create on their own terms.

us! er is upon h t a e w est! m r Wa ing at its b in d r o o d t joy ou Come en

et arket St re M h t r o 122 N PA 15658 Ligonier, 296 724-238-2 om adhouse.c o r s e v a d oland ecials w w w.car ite for sp s b e w r u to check ou ST AIN PO MOUNT UPON: O L AUREL C E H LY T N O IBE T BERS-O SUBSCR SPECIAL MEM R FOR OU

Fo our Total Y F F O 10%

od Bill

Running a project on Kickstarter is as much about building and audience and engagement as it is about securing funding. Projects bring artists and audiences closer together.

Kickstarter is not about investment and it’s not about donation — there’s always a value exchange between creators and the backers that pledge financial support to a project. The Kickstarter economy stands at the intersection between commerce and arts patronage. In exchange for pledging, backers receive creative rewards, one of a kind experiences and behind-the-scenes access to the creative process as the project comes to life.

Grant Ink

org

Post Haste In response to the proposed closure of 3,700 US postal offices comes Post Haste, a mixed-media art exhibition that reflects on how the digital age is radically changing our public institutions, with contributions ranging from portraits of stamp collectors to a live transcription service for gallery visitors. Can't attend? There are still handwritten letters and original art to look forward to — all delivered the old-fashioned way, naturally!

Our new matching grant program for nonprofit organizations, GrantInk, is a great opportunity to double your marketing exposure with the purchase of a company print ad and the bonus publicity of sponsoring your favorite nonprofit. For every ad purchased by a business, the Laurel Mountain Post will provide matching advertising space to the NPO of choice or add that amount to a general pool of available marketing resources.

Wollstonecraft Inspired by his own literature-loving daughter, Jordan Stratford's Wollstonecraft is a work of historical fiction telling the story of two unsung women: Ada Byron, the world's first computer programmer, and Mary Shelley, the world's first science fiction author. The resulting tale mixes math and science with mystery and adventure, transforming Ada and Mary into young detectives who must use their smarts to save the day.

GrantInk is part of our growing commitment to the community. We’re working to help these valuable organizations direct more of their funding to programming and less to expensive advertising campaigns.

The process of making the thing itself is what backers are funding on Kickstarter. Often the thing being created doesn’t even exist yet when a backer pledges to a project.

A few of the interesting new projects we’ve found recently include:

Every Story Begins At Home.

Summer 2012 - 15

Historic Hanna’s Town Opens May 5th Historic Hanna’s Town will open to the public for the 2012 season on Saturday, May 5th. In addition to site tours, special opening day activities will include an encampment in the fort by Proctor’s Independent Battalion Westmoreland County Pennsylvania; a musical program presented by Paula Purnell; historic toys and games; planting in the tavern kitchen garden, and afternoon tea in the Klingensmith House.

Local musician and educator Paula Purnell will present Homemade Music in Pennsylvania at 11:00 a.m. In the past, Pennsylvanians on the frontier knew how to craft musical instruments using the materials that were available. Today we can recycle and make beautiful music from throwaway items like soda pop bottles and toilet paper rolls. In this presentation, Ms. Purnell demonstrates a host of homemade musical instruments while sharing songs from Pennsylvania’s past. Audience members are invited to make instruments and play along. This program is made possible through a grant from the Richard P. Gibson & Rosemary Kirr Charitable Trust.

The program is free with admission, but reservations are recommended.

Afternoon Tea will be served on Saturday during seatings at 11:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A “full tea” will be served, which includes savories, scones, sweets, pastries, and of course tea for $18 per guest. Seating is limited and advance booking is a must.

In addition to tours, visitors can help with spring planting in the tavern’s kitchen garden, and play with a variety of toys that were popular in early America.

The Museum Shop will feature opening day specials.

Historic Hanna’s Town is located 3 miles north of Greensburg at 809 Forbes Trail Road. The site is open weekends through May, Saturdays 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. and Sundays 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.; Memorial Day, May 28th, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Historic Hanna’s Town regular summer hours, from June 2nd – September 3rd , are Wednesdays –Saturdays 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. and Sundays 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Guided tours are $5 for Adults, $4 for Students/Seniors.

The historic village was founded in 1773 by Robert Hanna and was the site of the first English court west of the Allegheny Mountains. The settlement was attacked and burned by Indians and their British allies on July 13, 1782.

Hanna’s Town never recovered and court was moved to Greensburg in 1786.

Please visit www.westmoreland history.org or call for information about Historic Hanna’s Town and the Westmoreland County Historical Society, 724-5321935 x10 for tea reservations and Homemade Music in Pennsylvania program.

16 - Summer 2012

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Special savings available for the month of May 2012 (at press time) include: Carol & Dave’s Roadhouse 10% off your total bill Connection Cafe & Tearoom FREE Iced Tea with Purchase Amica 15% off handblown glassware from Mexico

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Follow us on Facebook and keep checking back online for more coupons as they come in throughout the summer!

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Mountain Playhouse Follows Recipe for Success in 2012 The financial health of the Mountain Playhouse improved significantly in 2011, so much so that the Board of Directors and management are using the details of shows that performed well last year as the ingredients in the recipe for selecting the 2012 Mountain Playhouse Season. That recipe dictates thirteen weeks of performances and shows that maximize the potential for entertainment.

The 2012 Mountain Playhouse Season kicks off with Alone Together (July 10-22). In the spirit of wonderful Broadway comedies from the mid 20th century which crafted hilarity from real life relationships and plausible circumstances comes author Lawrence Roman's take on parenthood in middle age. His lead characters are a married couple in the 1980s thankful that their children have finally left the nest. They rediscover marital bliss, but not for long.

One by one all three of their sons come charging back home after experiencing some hard knocks in the real world, and Mom and Dad have quite a time sending them from the nest again.

Next up is Mountain Playhouse favorite, Ken Ludwig's latest farce (July 24August 5). A tribute to the great English farces of the 1930s and 1940s, The Fox on the Fairway takes audiences on a hilarious romp which begins as Quail Valley Country Club prepares to take on arch rival Crouching Squirrel in the Annual Inter-Club Golf Tournament. With a sizable wager at stake, the contest plays out amidst three love affairs, a disappearing diamond, objectionable sweaters and an exploding vase. A charming madcap adventure about love, life, and man’s eternal love affair with…golf.

What follows is the Pennsylvania premiere of SUDS: The Rocking 60s Musical Soap Opera (August 7-19). The show is a bubbly musical about romance in a Wash-O-Rama. SUDS tells of Cindy, a laundress down on her luck, and her two rockin’ guardian angels who teach her that “You Can’t Hurry Love” when you’re “Goin’ to the Chapel.” All of your favorite songs from the 1960s agitate this high-energy, entertaining musical. So, load your quarters in our Whirlpool, spin some chart-topping hits like “Be My Baby,” “Please Mister Postman,” “Wishin’ and Hopin’” and “It’s My Party,” ditch your Corvair and avoid the wringer of life’s troubles. A story of girls looking for love in a laundromat, SUDS bubbles over with fluffy fun!

In September, Alfred Hitchcock's The 39 Steps will take the stage September 18-30.

Equally inspired by Alfred Hitchcock and Monty Python, this crazy thriller took Broadway by storm and earned two pairs of Tony and Drama Desk Awards. Mild mannered Richard Hannay finds himself drawn into a tangled web of espionage. His only hope rests in solving the riddle of the 39 Steps while staying one step ahead of ruthless German spies. Four actors become more than 150 characters and stage the non-stop action, train chases, and plane crashes in this hilarious comedy hit that The New York Times called "theater at its finest."

Every Story Begins At Home.

And, finally Sister Amnesia's Country Western Nunsense Jamboree will conclude the 2012 Season October 2-14. In NUNSENSE I, when a wacky nun known as Sister Mary Amnesia regained her memory she recalled that she always wanted to be a country singer. In NUNSENSE II her dream became one step closer to reality when Reverend Mother landed a recording contract for her. In this show, NUNSENSE JAMBOREE, her dream has been realized as she headlines a brand new show promoting her debut album "I Could've Gone to Nashville." Cheered by audiences and critics

Spring Production at the Mountain Playhouse In addition to producing its core season preceded by the limited engagement, the Mountain Playhouse will present Henry and Mudge May 13-18. The educational production will reach over 3,000 elementary school students this year and tickets are still available. The performance at 3 pm on Mother's Day (May 13) is intended for families with elementary-aged children that have not attended the production via their school.

Tickets, Season Subscriptions and Group Sales

Mountain Playhouse, Pennsylvania's oldest professional resident summer theater alike as funny and fast-paced, this riotous hoedown is NUNSENSE fun with a Laugh-In-HeeHaw-Grand-Ole-Op'ry slant. Outrageously funny musical numbers include "I Could've Gone To Nashville," "Everyday of the Week Is a Saturday," "Do Unto Others," "The Delta Queen," "We Miss You, Patsy Cline," "A Technicolor Woman" and "Growing Up in Brooklyn." This is country musical "NUNSENSE Theatrical Style" guaranteed to please any NUNSENSE fan!

Special Limited Engagement Precedes the Season Preceding the opening of the 2012 Season, the Mountain Playhouse Board of Directors is proud to bring back Ring of Fire, the musical tribute to one of America's greatest musical superstars, for a special limited engagement (June 19-July 1). The Man in Black...the artist needs no other introduction! Johnny Cash is an icon - a great singer/songwriter whose work has touched millions of devoted fans. Ring of Fire: the Music of Johnny Cash portrays the drama of his memorable life and career told by a cast of talented singer/musicians and more than 40 of his greatest hits including "I Walk the Line," "Folsom Prison Blues," "Jackson" and of course "Ring of Fire" (written by his wife/collaborator June Carter Cash). Whether Johnny Cash fans or not, music and theater lovers will not want to miss the opportunity to spend the evening in the presence of the extraordinary and real man.

• Season Subscriptions, Pick 3 Passes, FlexPasses and individual tickets to the 2012 Season go on sale to the general public on March 22. Subscriptions plans range from $70 to $145 per person depending on the seat location, the day of the week and time of performance (evening or matinee). A smaller Pick 3 Pass is a mini subscription which offers theatergoers the opportunity to choose the three productions from the season (and the limited engagement) that they would like to see. Regardless of the day of week or seat location, the Pick 3 Pass costs only $80 for matinees and $91 for evening performances. The FlexPass offers the most flexibility, giving theatergoers the opportunity to purchase 6 admissions that can be used at any time and in any quantity throughout the season. FlexPass prices range from $160-$222. A special threeadmission Youth FlexPass (for students age 21 and younger) that costs only $30.

• Businesses or corporations who wish to give tickets to employees, friends or customers can purchase the Corporate FlexPass which provides ticket vouchers that display their company name and logo.

• Groups as small as 10 enjoy special services during their visit and save up to $4 off the ticket price. Special group rates are also available for dining and theater packages. For reservations, groups may contact the Group Sales Coordinator at 814 629 9201 x105.

• For information or to place ticket orders, audience members may call 814 629 9201, option 1 to speak the Box Office or go to Mountain Playhouse.org where audience members may purchase online.

The Mountain Playhouse is Pennsylvania's oldest professional, resident summer theater producing its 73rd Season in 2012. The Playhouse also sponsors an International Comedy Playwriting contest, an annual competition which helps encourage the development of new comedy for theater. The Mountain Playhouse is located in the Laurel Highlands on Route 985, onehalf mile north of the historic Lincoln Highway (Route 30) adjacent to Green Gables Restaurant.

Summer 2012 - 17

More than 1,000 Jeep Owners Expected to Invade Butler, PA,

Birthplace of the Jeep,

for Second Annual Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival

More than one thousand Jeep owners are expected to return to Butler, Pennsylvania on August 10-12 for the second annual Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival. The inaugural event last year attracted more than 1,300 Jeeps from 25 states and nearly 50,000 visitors to the birthplace of the Jeep.

“We were entirely overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of all of the Jeep owners who traveled to Butler last year for our Festival ,” said Patti Jo Lambert, event director.

“Our intent was to create a fabulous event that celebrated our Jeep heritage and give Jeep enthusiasts an opportunity to admire all of the makes and models of Jeeps that were created since the very first Bantam was produced. Without realizing it at the time, we ended up creating a homecoming for Jeeps.”

The first-ever event was held August 1214, 2011. It featured a Guinness World Record attempt for the longest Jeep parade as well as opportunities for Jeep owners to show off their vehicles and have fun with them in off-road activities. The historical element of the Jeep was showcased with a WWII Encampment and an exhibit about how the first jeep was born.

Those elements and more will be offered in 2012. New additions this year include: Number of Jeeps that Can Participate Has Been Set More Jeeps will be able to participate in 2012. A “Maximum Jeep Capacity” has been established for each activity and published on the Festival’s web site so Jeep owners know how many Jeeps can participate. Registration numbers will be updated in the web site’s registration section so everyone knows how much space is available for each activity. Lambert explained that the maximum quantities were determined so that Jeepers know at the outset that registration for various events is limited.

Jeep Invasion Features A Street Party, Not A Parade The Festival will kick-off in Downtown Butler on Friday, August 10 with the Jeep Invasion. The event will feature up to 1,200 Jeeps parked along Butler’s Main Street and side streets. The evening event will have a party atmosphere with DJs, food vendors and thousands of Jeep enthusiasts strolling 18 - Summer 2012

up and down the streets while admiring all of the Jeeps. Downtown businesses will offer special promotions and activities to welcome attendees. Lambert said the Festival’s Planning Committee has decided to attempt to break their Guinness World Record for the Longest Parade of Jeeps in a future year.

New Activities Expand Festival • Saturday Night Features Three New Elements 1. Three new events are planned for Saturday night. The Jeep Team Challenge is a great opportunity to watch 50 Jeep owners try their hand at some entertaining driving challenges. Watch drivers navigate while blindfolded, cheer on their reverse driving skills and see which team can make the best impression. The event will begin at 6 p.m. and is expected to be one of the highlights of the 2012 event.

2. The Mystery Road Rally will give 200 Jeeps the chance to go on a scavenger hunt throughout Butler County. Twelve different routes are being designed with stops at some of the County’s businesses and attractions. Prizes will be awarded to the Jeeps who correctly answer trivia questions and return to the Festival closest to the pre-determined time and mileage.

3. The Great Pig Out will enable Jeepers to feast on a traditional pig roast with all of the trimmings. The evening will also include music, games and other activities designed to give attendees a chance to meet more Jeep enthusiasts and have fun together.

• Ruff ‘n Tuff Competition Gives Jeeps More Chances to Compete Another new event for 2012 is Ruff ‘n Tuff. The Sunday-only event is a spin-off of the traditional Show ‘n Shine and will offer Jeepers the chance to compete in some non-traditional categories. Judges will select the Jeep with the Most Mud, Most Tattoos and the Most Extreme, among others. Trophies will be awarded to the winner in each class.

• Military Collectibles Show & Sale and Flea Market Offer Hard-to-Find Items The Festival is inviting dealers and individuals to sell their military antiques/ collectibles and used Jeep parts to attendees.

“Since so many people really enjoy the military aspect of the Jeep, we’re also

planning an area for dealers to sell military antiques and collectibles which will expand the historical components of the event,” said Lambert. “Jeep owners look forward to finding old parts that are difficult to locate so we’re hoping many Jeepers will clean out their garages and rent a space at the Festival to sell their items.” Registration for booth space will be available on the web site in late February.

2011 Favorites Are Back!

Nearly all of the elements of the 2011 Festival will be back to provide Jeepers yet another fantastic experience. The off-road Jeep Playground and On-Site Trails, Show ‘n Shine, Bantam Jeep history exhibit, Moraine Trail Ride, World War II Encampment, How-To Clinics and merchandise vendors will offer attendees and participants even more to see and do.

“We received tremendous feedback about our inaugural event, and we’re excited about all we have planned for this year,” said Lambert. “Many of the new aspects of the event are the direct result of comments we received from last year’s attendees, and we hope everyone will come this year and see how we’re committed to making the Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival a truly not-to-miss event.”

Registration Details for Jeeps and Volunteers Everyone must pre-register online in order to participate with their Jeep or volunteer at the event. Registration is available at www.bantamjeepfestival.com. Jeeps must have proof of valid liability insurance in order to participate. Rules and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are available on the website.

Merchandise Vendor Registration Available Last year’s attendees enjoyed meeting all of the companies that sold a wide-variety of Jeep and other merchandise. Nearly 100 businesses or groups reserved booth space in 2011.

For more information, call 724-234-2291 or email info @bantamjeepfestival.com.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Ruggedness and off-road abilities were key features of the jeep.

Cavalry Colonel John Considine generated national press test-driving BRC-60s.

Photo courtesy of Butler County Historical Society.

Using engineering rafts, soldiers hand-ferry two BRC-40 jeeps across a river in 1941.

Photo courtesy of US Army Signal Corps.

The prototype vehicle was designed, built and delivered to Camp Holabird in just 49 days.

Photo courtesy of Butler County Historical Society.

Bantam shipped their jeeps around the world.

Photo courtesy of Butler County Historical Society.

Every Story Begins At Home.

Summer 2012 - 19

The Worms Crawl In, the Worms Crawl Out: Vermicomposting Guide for Your Garden by Westmoreland Cleanways What is composting?

• Composting is a natural biological process where decomposers break down organic materials such as leaves, grass clippings, and food wastes.

• The end product is a dark rich substance called humus or compost.

• While composting occurs naturally, the process can be accelerated with human involvement.

Why Compost?

• Eliminate waste from entering a landfill.

According to the EPA, “Municipal Solid Waste Discarded in 2010,” yard trimmings and food residuals make up 27 percent of the US municipal solid waste stream. Most, if not all of that 27% could be composted, thus creating more space in a landfill.

• Create nutrient rich compost to be used in yards and garden… a Natural Fertilizer • Compost contains nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous as well as secondary nutrients such as calcium, that are necessary for plant growth, photosynthesis, seed development, and disease prevention.

• Plants can absorb the nutrients from compost easier than those from chemical fertilizers.

Why Compost with Worms?

• Worms are busy recyclers. They break down organic matter — stuff like dead plants • Create valuable nutrients necessary for rich and fertile soil... CASTINGS or worm poop • Good for composting on a small scale • No yard required. The worm bin can be placed indoors and so is a great idea for an apartment, condo, or classroom (The bin cannot be in a location that will freeze or overheat) • Not dependent on the weather. In the winter it is not necessary to tromp through the snow to carry food scraps to a compost bin in the middle of the yard.

What type of worm bin should I use?

This depends on how much money you want to spend, or how much work you are willing to invest in the project.

Store bought worm bins will cost more upfront, but in most cases should be easier to harvest the compost.

Homemade bins are much cheaper, but will involve more work when harvesting the compost. Although more work is involved, building the bin gives kids a sense of ownership.

Building Your Own: Simple and Effective

What to feed the worms?

• All vegetative matter, such as fruit and vegetable scraps, tea bags, coffee grounds, bread, corn flakes, and crushed egg shells.

• No meat, dairy or oily/greasy food.

• Worms eat easier if food is cut into small pieces.

20 - Summer 2012

4. Add the worms- red worms work well • After adding worms, add another inch of bedding, to bring total bedding to 5 in. high.

5. Keep the bedding moist and dark by laying sheets of newspaper over the top of the bedding 6. Harvesting the compost: after most of the newspaper is gone (approximately 3-4 months)

1. Purchase a plastic storage box.

• Size: The smallest size for an effective bin is approximately 20 inches long, 16 inches wide and a height of 10 inches. These dimensions are estimates, find a bin that is generally this size or bigger. (Hint: you will be digging around in the bin, so do not buy a bin that is taller than your arm is long, you need to be able to reach the bottom) Rule of Thumb: 1 square foot of surface for each pound of garbage/week • Must be opaque, worms do not like light so the bin must be a dark color so light can’t enter • A lid is optional. It is only needed if transporting the bin. On a daily basis the bin stays open to the air.

2. Make air holes • Use a ¼ inch bit to drill holes approximately 3 in. from the bottom.

• It is only necessary to drill holes on the 2 longer sides of the bin.

• Hole pattern: Drill holes within a circular pattern about the size of a quarter, leaving spaces between the circles.

What kind of worms?

• All worms eat dead things, but some are better composters than others.

• Redworms, or Eisenia fetida (I SEE nee a FET id a) are excellent composters: 1. Processes material fast 2. Are fast reproducers 3. Tolerate a wide range of temperatures, acidity, and moisture conditions 4. Withstand handling; can be shipped by mail or delivery service

over-water as there is no drainage (if too wetjust add more bedding).

Method 2: Place newspaper in a bucket of water, ring out, then place in bottom of worm bin.

3. Bedding • 4 in. high, and cover the entire bottom of the bin • Use a paper shredder to cut up newspaper into strips… the bedding of your worm bin • Newspaper needs to be moist as worms breathe through their skin – bedding should feel like a wet sponge, when you squeeze a handful of bedding a few drops of water should drip from hand.

Method 1: Add newspaper to bin, then pour/ spray water over top and stir, be careful not to

Method 1: Place worm bin contents on a plastic sheet. A bright light placed overhead will cause the worms to crawl to the bottom of the pile. You can scoop off the compost from the top of the pile while the worms hide from the light.

Method 2: Move the contents of bin to one side and add fresh bedding and food to the other side. When the worms move into the new bedding, you can remove the finished compost (this will take a few days to weeks) Meet the Residents • There are hundreds of redworms in this bin.

We are very small. Our bedding is harvested (castings removed and new bedding added) every three to four months.

• Other insects sometimes found in the bin are “good bugs.” They will probably be very small and help break down the organic wastes.

Setting Up Our Home • The plastic lid is for transportation only. If the lid is left on, the bin gets too hot and we will die.

• We don’t like the light. Place newspaper on top of our bedding, leaving a 2" perimeter uncovered around the box.

• Place our bin where the temperature can be maintained between 50-75 degrees. DO NOT LEAVE THE BIN IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT OR ON AN AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING UNIT. • Stir the bedding around our food piles occasionally. Add shredded newspaper and stir it in if the bedding becomes too damp. Our bedding should be the consistency of a wrungout sponge.

What We Eat • One pound of worms (about 1,200) will eat one pound of food in two days. We can be fed about 1½ pounds of food scraps per day. When our worm population increases, our daily amount of food should increase.

• We eat all vegetative matter, such as fruit and vegetable scraps and peels, onionskins, tea bags,

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

coffee grounds, potato peels, bread, corn flakes, and crushed egg shells. We can eat more easily if our food is cut into small pieces.

• Overfeeding will cause our bin to have a foul odor. It may become anaerobic (lacking oxygen).

To correct the problem, stir our bedding, and don’t feed us for a while.

• Underfeeding reduces the worm population.

Begin feeding us again and our numbers will increase.

• Don’t worry about us over the weekend. We will survive unattended for a few days with food left in the bin.

If a lot of worms are dying in the bin, it may be too salty or acidic (from too many oranges, etc.)

We may be too hot, or we don’t have enough air.

Aerate our bedding by stirring it well, and add fresh bedding.

If you have any questions, please call us at the Westmoreland Cleanways office (724-836-4129).

Interesting worm facts: • Redworms produce eggs in cocoons that hatch in about three weeks • Redworms have five hearts • Redworms can live four to five years • Redworms do not have eyes, but are very sensitive to light Educational Programs:

We’re Easy to Please, But . . .

• DO NOT FEED US meat products. It may attract flies, ants, or mice. Sharp bones may injure hands when burying food scraps.

• DO NOT FEED US canned fruits with sugary syrup, animal fat, oils, or dairy products like cheese. They can become rancid.

• DO NOT ADD animal waste – it can cause disease.

redworms vegetable scraps, fruit peeling and bread from their lunches and watch the worms digest these materials and produce worm castings (compost). Contact Natalie by email or call 724-836-4129 for more information or to schedule a presentation.

The Worm Bin is a popular tool for getting students interested in the environment. Young learners have the opportunity to make observations and gain respect for living organisms.

Older students can focus on the biology involved in decomposition and plant nutrient levels.

Westmoreland Cleanways maintains two worm bins for use in schools. This can consist solely of a presentation or can include care of the bin for up to a month. Students feed the

Backyard Composting

Workshops

Taught by experienced Penn State Master Gardeners, our Backyard Composting Workshops explain how to turn organic kitchen and yard waste into a nourishing soil enrichment that improves soil structure, attracts beneficial organisms, and provides all the nutrients a plant needs to thrive without chemical additives.

Saturday, May 12: 9am – 11:30am OakHollow Park, N. Huntingdon Saturday, June 9: 9am – 11:30am TheBarn at Donohoe Center The cost of the workshopis $10, payable at the door, and pre-registration is advised. Registration deadline is one week prior to each workshop, or until the class is full. Email nreese@westmoreland cleanways.org,or call Westmoreland Cleanways at 724-836-4129 to register .

Kittens Make Everything Better.

SAME CONVENIENT LOCATION! Behind Domino’s Pizza Downtown Latrobe

102 DEPO T STREET in LA TR OBE, P A DEPOT LATR TROBE, PA

Every Story Begins At Home.

Summer 2012 - 21

Swinging Into Comfort Latrobe’s New Landmark Locale The Latrobe skyline is changing – a new building has been going up behind Giant Eagle, across from the airport. Local chatter tells us it’s just another hotel rising from the machines of progress. We discovered there’s something much more familiar and down-to-earth at work there.

The smile behind the apparent chaos belongs to Dawn Roberts, General Manager of the new 109-room SpringHill Suites in Latrobe, who comes from a distinguished, award-winning history with the Marriott chain and Concord Hospitality Enterprises.

She has been busy assembling another new customer service team, unsurpassed in attention to detail and bringing over 40 new jobs to the area. Originally from Cheshire, CT, (she moved to Altoona and attended Penn State) Roberts herself is much more than just another company title or figurehead. She’s actively involved in the community, serving on the board of the Greensburg Rotary Club, and participates in a variety of local activities with organi-

22 - Summer 2012

zations such as Blackburn Center, Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce, Seton Hill University, and many more. Did I mention she and her husband, Mike, are parents to two children and five Chihuahuas?

Putting my trust in Roberts’ creative enthusiasm and endless energy for multitasking, I held my entire wedding at her previous property, the Courtyard by Marriott in Greensburg – during the start of 2010’s record-breaking snowstorm season. Her staff held it together and pulled off a stylish yet informal family cocktail party that people still compliment me about. Most people wouldn’t think of a hotel marketed for “business travelers” when planning such an event, but Roberts has a unique talent for turning hotels into something much more exciting and remarkable than just another link in the corporate property chain.

The SpringHill Suites brand of hotels has recently been reimagined around the concept of style meeting substance – words synonymous with Latrobe’s native son, Arnold Palmer, who partnered with Marriott to develop this one-of-a-kind lodging locale. Every guest room is a spacious king or double queen suite, with luxury bedding, a pullout couch, minirefrigerator and microwave. Furniture and lighting have been carefully selected to create a calm and refreshing environment.

Many aspects of the hotel are customized with Arnold Palmer memorabilia. Guests will enjoy a replica of the Masters Trophy along with letters from past presidents. No other SpringHill Suites has a golf bag storage room right off the lobby – which is important because guests at this hotel will have access to special golf and dining packages at Palmer’s own Latrobe Country Club, which has also been recently refurbished.

Mike Moss, the new General Manager at the Club, began his career at age 15 by washing dishes at his uncle’s restaurant in downtown Pittsburgh (Roland’s Seafood Grill). He spent several years gaining more experience in all areas of the food service and hospitality industry, including time as Food & Beverage Director at Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club and Lodge in Orlando, FL. Laura Armitage is the Chef de Cuisine at Latrobe Country Club. She has lived in the Latrobe area most of her life and worked

in several local establishments before finally finding her home there. Chef Laura received her training by working under other professional chefs for six years in various positions at Vallozzi’s Restaurant and The Four Points Sheraton in Greensburg, among others. Laura came to Latrobe Country Club nearly eight years ago, working her way up until ultimately becoming the Chef de Cuisine last June. Chef Laura is very excited about the new summer menu, which features some of the freshest local farm foods and regional favorites available in season across the Laurel Highlands.

“The thing I first noticed about the area is how beautiful it is. Spring, summer and fall offer some of the best outdoor weather and scenery I have ever seen,” added Moss. “The winter scenes in the area are stunning.”

The US Navy flight demonstration squadron, the Blue Angels, will be performing some stunning sky displays of their own during the Westmoreland County Air Show June 23-24 at Arnold Palmer Regional Airport right next door, and are scheduled to be the first guests of the new SpringHill. Online reservations are available at www.springhillsuiteslatrobe.com or for stays starting in July, pending construction completion.

The Latrobe Area has been growing and changing a lot during the last decade.

Big box retail stores have replaced much of that old “Main Street” feel with corporate cutouts which could easily be located in any town across the country. But thanks to Marriott and Mr. Palmer (who has been personally involved from start to finish), the new SpringHill Suites promises the quality and consistency travelers need combined with a refreshing charm and personality to make them feel right at home here in western Pennsylvania.

“As I have become more familiar with the community, I believe the greatest asset is the people,” explained Moss. “Everyone is incredibly friendly and the area hasn’t lost the ‘neighborhood’ feel I miss from my youth. It is place where you feel you can still leave your doors unlocked and everyone greets you with a smile.”

– Cathi Gerhard with Scott Sinemus, The Ligonier Chef For more on the history of Latrobe Country Club, visit our website with exclusive bonus content available to subscribers only!

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Your hometown is not where you’re from.

It’s who you are.

– Arnold Palmer

Every Story Begins At Home.

Summer 2012 - 23

Laurel Highlands Trout Trail: May 2012 There is certainly something in angling that tends to produce a serenity of the mind. – Washington Irving

Pennsylvania has more miles of trout streams than any other state but Alaska. Now a broad partnership among state parks, Trout Unlimited chapters, cultural and historical attractions, boutique shops, restaurants, and lodging partners has evolved into the amazing 70 mile north/south Laurel Highlands Trout Trail. Because of this partnership, 30+ special events, geared to fly fishermen and their families, will be offered throughout the Laurel Highlands Trout Trail region during the month of May. Fly Fishing in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania is great all year long.

The sheer abundance of high quality streams in this region made it very difficult to identify the prestigious “Top Ten Streams” list. See map at far right: each location (by coordinates and also description), the recommended go-to flies and equipment for the Trout Trail, specific PA fishing regulations and license guidelines, a jam-packed calendar of events that will appeal to youth, women and hard core flyfishermen; and specials that our lodging and restaurant partners are offering visitors this May. One of the month’s highlights will be the Laurel Highlands Trout Trail Rendezvous scheduled for Saturday, May 19, 2012 from 2-6 p.m. at Hidden Valley Resort’s beautiful Alpine Lodge, a beautiful mountain resort within the Laurel Highlands. Reservations are required and can be made online at www.LHtrouttrail.com or through the

Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor, 3435 Route 30 E, Latrobe, PA 15650.

The Rendezvous will offer a number of demonstrations, including cooking and fly tying, information booths, fine arts, hearty appetizers and desserts, cash bar, door prizes, and of course, a compelling speaker – world renowned

Our Trout Season Fly fishing in the Laurel Highlands is great all year long! Winters provide the state’s largest accumulation of snowfall, so trout streams benefit from cold rains in the spring, summer and fall. Legally, there is always a Trout Trail stream open if you fish with flies and practice catch and release.

Wild and Native Trout Brook trout are our only native streamdwelling trout. Rainbow and brown trout are reproducing here in the wild.

The Trout Trail features excellent nursery streams that produce beautifully colored, large and hardfighting wild and native trout.

Fishing for Trout in the Ligonier Valley This historic photography exhibit, held in conjunction with the Laurel Highlands Trout Trail, will run from April 17 through June 12 at the Ligonier Valley Library.

fly fisherman and instructor, George Daniel. A few noteworthy mentions from his lengthy bio is the fact that he was the head coach of the Fly Fishing Team USA in the 2011 World Fly Fishing Championships in Italy; Assistant Coach of the US Youth Fly Fishing Championship, bringing home the gold; numerous individual gold medals; and appearances on ESPN and OLN while competing in the Great Outdoor Games and the Fly Fishing Masters. It’s a given that he logs over 24 - Summer 2012

200 days a year on trout waters near and far. He will have autographed copies of his new book, Dynamic Nymphing, available.

Experience fly fishing at its best this May along the Laurel Highlands Trout Trail. Bring family and friends along to enjoy all the special monthlong events.

Catch and Release Ethic Trout are too valuable to be caught only once. The catch and release ethic is encouraged. Use barbless hooks; land them quickly; and then handle them with wet hands no longer than necessary to release them.

Recommended Equipment While a 7.5’, 4-weight, medium action fly rod will handle most of the Trout Trail, a 9’, 5-weight, fast action rod is best for the Youghiogheny River, a tailwater fishery.

Simple leaders work here. Try a size 4X 7.5 foot tapered leader built out toward 9 feet with tippet, 4X for nymphing and 5X for dry fly fishing.

On the smaller Trout Trail streams, hip waders are adequate, but waist-high waders are a good choice too. The larger, colder Youghiogheny River calls for chest-high waders.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Recommended Go-To Flies for the Trout Trail

Nymphs Walt’s Worm (Sizes 12 and 14) Green Weenie (12) Caddis Pupa, gold bead style (12 and 14) Pheasant Tail Nymph (14 and 16) Hare’s Ear Nymph, bead head, flashback style (12 and 14) Prince Nymph, bead head style (12)

Did you know that Pennsylvania has more miles of trout streams than any other state but Alaska?

Here’s a look at OUR top ten streams!

1. Mill Creek - N40 15 40 W79 12 30 Begins on Mallard Lane off Wilpen Rd. SR1017. It’s a medium-size, riffle run tributary of Loyalhanna Creek. Most of this 3-mi. section is open to public fishing; it’s fed by exceptional value headwater streams.

2. Loyalhanna Creek - N40 14 50 W79 14 51 This section is delayed harvest artificial lures only from Route 711 bridge in Ligonier downstream to SR 2045 bridge. This 1.5 mi. area is a larger riffle-run stream.

3. Linn Run - N40 09 10 W79 13 20 Runs from Linn Run State Park Office downstream to the park boundary. It has high alkalinity coldwater tributaries and is stocked. Streamside rental cottages available.

4. Indian Creek - N40 05 20 W79 20 07 Use the delayed harvest artificial lures only section from Hunters Bridge off Route 381 downstream 1.6 mile to the Route 381 bridge in Jones Mills.

5. Camp Run - N40 05 44 W79 19 40 This small wood-land stream is designated a Class A Wild Trout Stream, PA’s highest rating. It joins Indian Creek near the middle of the delayed harvest area. Park where stream crosses under Route 381.

6. Pike Run - N40 04 39 W79 19 02 Laurel Hill Trout Farm, on Pike Run, 3 mi. east of Jones Mills on the south side of Route 31 provides fee fishing and tours of their trout hatchery. No license required. Rods may be borrowed; bait is available.

7. Laurel Hill Creek - N40 00 29 W79 13 57 The delayed harvest artificial lures only area in Laurel Hill State Park begins at the bridge above Laurel Hill Lake.

8. Youghiogheny River-Middle Section - N39 49 37 W79 22 33 The 10 mi. section between Ohiopyle and Confluence is a tailwater fishery. An all-tackle Trophy Trout section begins downstream at the Ramcat access area.

9. Meadow Run - N39 51 47 W79 29 42 This delayed harvest artificial lures only stretch begins where the stream crosses under Route 381 in Ohiopyle and extends upstream more than a mile.

The lower area has waterfalls and slides. ADA accessible.

10. Quebec Run - N39 44 42 W79 39 25 This 7,000 acre Wild Area offers native brook trout accessible from Mill Run Trail. Great hiking and scenery in this area.

Wet Flies Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail, bead head (12 and 14) Streamers Woolly Bugger, black with green body (10) Dry Flies Attractor Dry Flies Royal Wulff (12 and 14) pictured above Adams, parachute style (12, 14, 16 and 18) Match the Hatch Dry Flies Elk Hair Caddis, peacock body, X-style (12, 14 and 16) Comparadun, sparkle-style in match-the-hatch colors (eg. sulfur, olive, etc.) and sizes Terrestrial Dry Flies Ant, black parachute style (14 and 16) Beetle, Elk hair style with peacock body (14 and 16)

Every Story Begins At Home.

Summer 2012 - 25

The Sweetness in Our Souls

by Scott Sinemus, The Ligonier Chef

Miss Ainslie gathered a bit of rosemary, crushing it between her white fingers.

“See,” she said, “some of us are like that it takes a blow to find the sweetness in our souls.”

Lavender and Old Lace, Myrtle Reed (1874–1911) American Poet and Journalist

Herbs are one of my favorite things in our garden – not only do we benefit from the flavor of immediately picked and used, but they are quite easy to grow, attractive and scented before-hand. One year I planted entirely too much arugula only to have it bolt, make white cross shaped flowers and

reach over 18 inches tall. Everyone that visited thought we planted a border on purpose!

Because I do quite a bit of cooking, I tend to plant quite a few of each herb so that I always have some available for the kitchen without taking from the plant to the point it cannot recover and produce more.

An extra benefit from doing so is that, like most plants, the more you trim the more prolifically they produce. A bonus comes at the end of the season when I usually have quite a bit that needs to be used before winter or stored. Most people dry all of their herbs before the first frost hits.

I prefer the flavor of fresh as opposed to dry in most applications. Normally I make compound butters with a single or

blend of herbs and keep them in the freezer to lop off a slice as needed. What could be easier than mincing up some herbs and combining them with softened butter and rolling them in plastic wrap to make a cylinder? Of course one of the oldest tricks in the book is to mince, put into ice cube trays, cover with water and freeze. Pop them out and keep them in a Ziploc freezer bag.

The amount of water surrounding the herbs doesn’t affect most recipes. Not-tomention how lovely and convenient it is to toss a couple of cubes into your soup without having to clean up your cutting board.

There are also the medical benefits of many herbs. My understanding is to achieve the full health benefits you need to consume an inordinate amount of them, but there’s a lot of information out there (see page33).

I cannot express enough how important it is to have an absolutely sharp knife to mince herbs. A dull knife bruises the herbs and stains the hell out of your cutting board. The point of releasing the essential oils is to flavor your food not your cutting board. The only time that I use a food processor or blender for herbs is when I make Escoffier’s classic marinate for lamb.

(Escoffier is the Godfather of cuisine). The bruising of the herbs in this application actually helps increase the amount of essential oils released to flavor the meat as well as the oil. This marinate is brilliant on

virtually any meat you plan on grilling not just lamb. An overnight marinate is preferable but even a few hours is beneficial.

If you don’t have enough time consider making extra marinate and slathering it on the meat just before service. CAUTION: Do not use any of the leftover marinate the raw meat has been in.

Escoffier’s Marinate Cloves of garlic Tarragon Thyme Chervil Parsley Rosemary Salt & Black Pepper Olive oil Method: Wash and remove the stems from the herbs. Combine all ingredients except the olive oil in the blender or food processor.

When roughly chopped begin adding the olive oil until you have enough to completely coat the amount of meat you plan on marinating.

Please note that there are no proportions listed. Herbs are a personal taste therefore assigning an amount to any-thing would be superfluous.

Scott Sinemus is a Chef with a degree in Culinary Arts from the Pennsylvania Institute for Culinary Arts in Pittsburgh. He’s continued his education with classes from the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone and The Greenbrier; and has travelled internationally in search of authentic cuisine.

Joanne Grace Hartman, MT A massage relaxes muscles, easing and soothing your aches and pains.

It rejuvenates – restoring balance to our body and being, making us better for all the things life throws our way.

220B West Main Street Ligonier, PA 15658 Phone: 724-858-6271 26 - Summer 2012

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Regional Farmers Market Guide Buffalo Presbyterian Church Farmers Market 678 Sarver Rd. in Sarver, PA | 724-353-1278 Saturday Aug. 25th 9:00-3:00 www.buffaloPCsarver.org

June 12th – Oct. 23rd 3:00 – 6:00 pm 814-533-2045

Confluence Open Market 849 River Rd. in Confluence, PA 814-395-5744

Kittanning Farmers Market 22 Franklin Village Mall in Kittanning, PA 724-543-3074

Downtown Uniontown Farmers Market W. Peter & Beeson Ave. in Uniontown, PA 724-437-7913

Latrobe Farmers’ Market Memorial Stadium in Latrobe, PA

Farmers & Artists Market Downtown Connellsville, PA Meadow Lane & Crawford Avenue 8 am to Noon |www.fayettetrust.org Saturdays, June 30 – September 1 Farmers Market Keystone State Park in Derry, PA 1150 Keystone Park Rd Sundays, July 8 - October 28, 10 am - 2 pm Fox Chapel Farmers Market Shadyside Academy, 423 Fox Chapel Rd Pittsburgh, PA | 412-968-3160 June 12th – September Wednesdays 3:00 – 6:30 Grandma’s Produce 30 Lucinda Lane in Windber, PA 814-467-4921 Grassi Farm 1236 Valley Rd in Schellsburg, PA 814-733-2028 August – October Greensburg Community Market Route 119 at Lynch Field in Greensburg, PA 724-834-2334 Central Park Johnstown Farmers Market 401 Main St. in Johnstown, PA 814-533-2045 | June 8th- Oct. 26th Every Friday 9:00-3:00 Westend Farmers Market 501 Broad Street, Johnstown (Senior Life Parking Lot) Every Story Begins At Home.

Indiana County Farmer’s Market Downtown Indiana, PA | 724-463-9170

Ligonier Country Market Corner of West Main Street & Springer Road in Ligonier, PA | 724-858-7894 Saturdays, May 26 – October 6 Monroeville Lions Farmers Market Gateway High School in Monroeville, PA Mt. Pleasant Farmers Market Smithfield Street, Mt. Pleasant, PA 724-552-9942 | Every Wednesday July 11- October 17 | 1:00-5:00

Brownsville Farmers Market Market Street Parking Lot (Main Street) Wednesdays, July 4th – Sept. 26th 4 p.m. – 7 p.m | 724-437-7913 www.buylocalfayette.org Masontown Market in the Park German-Masontown Park, Masontown, PA Fridays, July 6th – Sept. 28th 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. | 724-437-7913 www.buylocalfayette.org Ohiopyle Country Farm Market Ohiopyle State Park, Falls Parking Lot on Rt. 381, Ohiopyle, PA | 724-437-7913 Saturdays, May 26th – August 25th 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. | www.buylocalfayette.org Scottdale Farmers Market Rite Aid Parking Lot, Scottdale Friday 4:30 – 7:00 pm July 6th – Sept. 21st | 724-437-7913 www.buylocalfayette.org

Springs Farmers Market Springs, PA Saturdays, May 26 – September 15 Somerset County Farmers’ Market Georgian Place, Somerset, PA |814-279-5620 Wednesdays, June 13 – October 10 Saturdays, May 26 – October 27 Stoneycreek Valley Farmers Market Mill St. in Holshopple, PA Waynesburg Farmers Market 90 West High St. in Waynesburg, PA Uniontown Farmers Market West Peter Street & by Storey Square Uniontown PA. Thursdays, July 5th – Sept. 20th 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. | 724-437-7913 www.buylocalfayette.org Connellsville Farmers and Art Market West Crawford Ave., Connellsville Pa. Saturdays, July 7th – Sept. 22nd 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. |724-437-7913 www.buylocalfayette.org Summer 2012 - 27

Are You Ready for Your Swimsuit?

Simple Steps for Fat Loss & Looking Great What’s Cooking in Fitness with Mark J. Rullo, MS, CSCS, MES Summer and the warmer weather can’t but help you think about relaxing in the sun by the pool, but that also means swimsuit time.

Are you ready for your swimsuit? If not, below are a few steps to maximize your fat loss with your fitness program and feel like a million dollars while sitting poolside this summer.

1) Know your formula. Don’t guess anymore. If you haven’t by now, don’t wait and find out your personal metabolic formula. We understand weight management is about calories in versus calories out.

One pound of fat equals 3500 calories; therefore a 500 calorie deficit for seven consecutive days will result in one pound of fat loss (7days X 500 caloric deficit = 3500 calories or one pound loss).

So the bigger question is how you know if you are creating a deficit if you do not know your expenditure.

For a FREE and easy estimate, go to My Fitness Kitchen® website www.my fitnesskitchen.com and click on the dotFIT logo then click on “Free Fitness Profil1e” to get your estimated target caloric expenditure and recommended intake.

For those who want to take it to another level rent or purchase an Exerspy™ armband and really take the guess-work out of weight-management by having an actual expenditure reading. We have the Exerspy™ armband here at the “Kitchen” to rent or purchase or you can purchase on-line at www.myfitnesskitchen.com 2) Understand and incorporate the hierarchy of fat loss into your fitness program based on your availability and timeframe. When it comes to exercise, everything we do has an effect toward our fat loss; however some things are more effective than others. If fat loss was like digging a ditch and you had three tools (backhoe, shovel or a spoon) to pick from to dig that ditch; which one would you choose? Now all tools would get the job done, but you can get the picture as to which tools would dig the ditch in least amount of time.

When it comes to exercise, what the heck is a Backhoe, Shovel or Spoon?

Backhoe = metabolic boosting resistance training, Shovel = Interval Cardio training, Spoon = steady-state cardio. If you have limited availability then don’t expect to get the ditch done by using a spoon. What is 28 - Summer 2012

most important isn’t which tool you use but rather you understand the effectiveness of each so you don’t get frustrated if progress isn’t happening as you would like. Keep in mind, beyond the tools listed, it is very difficult to out exercise a crappy diet, therefore maintain your caloric formula while also getting enough protein and essential fats.

3) Maximize your cardio training by getting outside your comfort zone.

For those not on any metabolic medications such as Beta Blockers or Calcium Channel Blockers, a great method to monitor this is via heart rate. A good rule is to use the age predicted estimated max heart rate (220 –

age = Estimated Max Heart Rate). Work at 85% of your estimated max for 60 seconds and then recover until your heart rate is below 60% of your max. Repeat that for 410 rounds. Having your own Heart Rate monitor is great tool for this part of your training.

For those who are on those medications and/or can’t monitor via heart rate, use the “talk test.” If you can maintain a conversation, you are safe; if you can maintain a conversation but rather not talk, then you are safe and effective. Unfortunately for most people who exercise aerobically for fat loss they are only in the “Safe” zone and fail to challenge into the “Safe and Effective” zone.

4) Work on the quality of your soft tissue. Stretching regularly on your own is never a bad idea; however much like backing up our computers we all know we should but rarely do on a regular basis.

Therefore if you are one of those who neglect the regular stretching, try a YOGA class. One class per week will do wonders for you. Additionally beyond the normal stretching, having a greater focus toward our soft tissue is essential to greater function and even elimination of pain.

Ideally I would recommend a regular massage for your musculoskeletal system.

If that isn’t feasible from a time and money perspective, then start using a foam roller before and after your workouts.

5) Hire a coach. Outside expertise allows you to focus on your job and commitments so you literally just “show up” and let them take care of the planning for you. Studies have shown that people exercising when a trainer only supervises (no instruction or coaching) work up to 30% harder than they do on their own. 30% more work translates to significantly faster results. Imagine what you could do if that trainer actually pushed you through to harder workouts – more particularly designed a program that would work better?

Unfortunately the fitness industry is unregulated so you can be easily misguided in your selection of “quality” fitness professionals. Quality Fitness Professionals design “Programs” where as less-than qualified trainer’s only give workouts.

Therefore when selecting a fitness professional (Personal Trainer) make sure they sit down with you first and provide a game plan outline that compliments your availability, experience and goals so you know exactly what you will need to do to achieve your goals and not just exercise for the sake of exercising.

6) Make a real commitment to lose the unwanted pounds. Write it down and make it specific. Saying that you want to lose weight is not enough. Writing down exactly how much fat you want to lose, with specific time frame and game plan of how to do it, is far more powerful than just talking about it. Being this detailed will give you the road map and accountability to make your goal a reality.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Example Commitment: I am going to lose 10lbs of fat in 6 weeks.

I will do this by averaging a daily caloric expenditure of 2,600 while making sure not to consume more than 1,767 calories per day. This caloric combination of expenditure and intake will create an 833 daily caloric deficit to lose 10 lbs in 6 weeks.

All of this will be accomplished by the following behaviors: • I will exercise six days per week for a minimum of 30 minutes • I will include metabolism boosting resistance training three times per week for at least 15-20 minutes • I will take at least one YOGA class per week.

• I will meet with a trainer at least once a week for my resistance training sessions.

• I will drink daily; half my weight in ounces of water • I will spread out my target daily caloric intake of 1,767 calories over 4-6 meals • I will take my daily multi-vitamin to support my fat loss program • I will re-asses my progress every two weeks to adjust program accordingly and ensure I reach my goal of 10 lbs of Fat loss in 6 weeks

Ode to Paula Deen Paula Deen, if I liked to cook you would be my hero.

Throwing caution to the wind and butter to the pan, the bowl, the slice, you cook with smooth goodness and creamy comfort.

The sizzle in the skillet, spitting pig fat, and we become all sensory: nose and ears, greasy fingers, eyes and watering mouth.

No doctor’s warning or familial concern can fight the primal urge to eat meat and fat, better to prepare ourselves for the long winter of our possible discontent.

Paula Deen the queen of doughy midriffs and double chins, family dinners, and second helpings.

The joy you serve by the heaping spoonful inspires me, except I hate to cook.

In conclusion, don’t stress about being perfect, but rather focus on how to be better.

Do something better today than yesterday, do something better this week than last week, and so on, and you will win as “there is no finish line on the road to a healthy lifestyle.”

Instead I want to serve up a bowl of stick-to-your-ribs writing: a poem of sticky-bun-sin and stories with gravy swirling through the pages.

I want the doctor to tell you to slow down, read in moderation.

Mark Rullo is an Exercise Physiologist, Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist, Medical Exercise Specialist, certified Golf Fitness Instructor and owner of My Fitness Kitchen® www.myfitnesskitchen.com 724-879-8523.

I want your arteries to clog with my words and the characters to leave you feeling full, maybe with a little indigestion.

I want you to reach guiltily for a second helping.

I want you to give in to the primal urge to be entertained and informed and transported To prepare you for the long winter…

Something far from your traditional, intimidating gym, My Fitness Kitchen® in Latrobe 30 plaza is Where Fitness & Nutrition Come Together. From the moment you enter My Fitness Kitchen® regardless of your fitness level it’s all about “You.” The supportive staff, welcoming atmosphere, and friendly members combine to create the most unique and comfortable environment for your fitness success. Whether it is Fitness, Nutrition or both, you can be confident My Fitness Kitchen® is the solution to a healthier you.

Every Story Begins At Home.

Rebecca Feldbusch An English Teacher at Derry Area School District, Rebecca is the mother of three sons, grandmother to one granddaughter, married to Bill and guardian of two fat cats.

Summer 2012 - 29

Grandma’s Treasure

by Alicia Stankay Leslie tightened her rain-soaked hood, shoved her spade into the muddy dirt, and dug up another clump, throwing it to the side. She hated dirt, she hated the great outdoors, and she hated surprises. But—Grandma promised her that the treasure buried in a tin chest in the park would be all hers when Grandma passed away.

“You’re my favorite grandchild,” Grandma had quavered earlier that day, clutching Leslie’s hands. “You must retrieve my prized possession so that I can give it to you. I don’t think I’ll last much longer.”

She coughed, but waved away Leslie’s offer to help her sit up higher in her bed.

“Just go!” she gasped, and Leslie flew.

Tall Oak Woods lie behind Grandma’s house, but Leslie had avoided the park all her life. Born and raised in the city, she found the rocky trail a ridiculous substitute for a sidewalk.

Only the possibility of treasure kept her going.

Was it diamonds and precious gems, gold jewelry, or even valuable coins?

As Leslie dug deeper, blisters formed on her hands because the spade wasn’t big enough for the job.

Water dripped off the tip of her hood and splashed onto her nose. The trees around her thrashed in the wind, creaking and groaning. Darkness threatened to overwhelm the woods, and Leslie shivered. Because she imagined wild animals with blood red eyes and sharp claws watching her every move, she stopped to listen every few minutes. She expected a bear or wolf to pounce any moment. Her heart pounded in her chest and fear clogged her throat, and soon she’d run screaming down the trail.

30 - Summer 2012

The small shovel clinked against metal, and Leslie pushed thoughts of creeping coyotes to the back of her mind. She slid the spade around the edges of the box and continued to dig.

In her excitement, she even forgot the blisters on her palms. She wiggled the box to ease it from the surrounding dirt.

It measured about twelve inches square and four inches deep, and she crammed it inside an old gym bag she’d brought with her.

Carrying the extra weight caused her to stumble on the trail and she almost slid off into a ravine. Leslie cursed herself for not bringing a

flashlight. The rain slowed to a drizzle, but nightfall’s inky fingers stained the dusk a deeper shade of gray. She needed to avoid the park after dark because predators used the cover of night to prowl for their prey. She had no doubt about her category in the animal kingdom, and that fear gave wings to her feet. Oh, for the safety of a busy city street!

By the time Leslie returned to Grandma’s house, her body collapsed as if she’d run a marathon chased by body-snatching aliens. Despite her interest in the contents of the treasure chest, she needed a hot shower before

she visited Grandma. She wiped down the box, too, scraping off the mud, and wrapped it in a clean towel.

When she slipped into Grandma’s room, the old lady sat up and her bright eyes focused on Leslie.

“Did you get it?” she demanded.

Where did her trembling voice go?

Leslie wondered. She sounds like she’ll live for another eighty years.

Leslie unwrapped the towel to display the box.

“Oh, thank you!” Grandma snatched at the box and Leslie hesitated.

“How do I know you’ll be giving it to me? Is it in your will?”

Grandma tsked and shook her head.

“My goodness, young lady, you sound just like my two sisters. I remember when Papa gave us all a special present, but they wanted mine. They always said I got the best gift because Papa loved me the most.” Grandma smiled smugly.

“Oh, Grandma, I’m sure that’s not true. Parents love all their children the same.”

“Rubbish! That’s what they say, but don’t believe it. Here, give me that and I’ll show you.”

Leslie still hesitated. “And then what? I need to know it’s mine.”

Grandma frowned before she started coughing again. Leslie rushed to pat her on the back. When the harsh coughs subsided, Grandma managed to wheeze, “Don’t be so greedy. Just give me a few minutes to enjoy my treasure.”

Leslie placed the tin box on Grandma’s lap. The clasp on the side had rusted in the dirt, and Grandma struggled to open it.

“Here, let me,” Leslie said.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

“No!” Grandma pulled the box to her chest and glared at Leslie. “Get me a nail file from my drawer over there.”

Leslie mumbled under her breath as she handed over the file. Within minutes, Grandma unlatched the clasp and lifted the lid of the chest.

“Oh, she’s still beautiful!”

She? What could Grandma mean?

Diamonds or coins weren’t described that way.

Leslie squinted at Grandma and wondered if she’d been hoodwinked.

Moving closer, she tried to turn the box around.

“Please! I asked for a few moments alone.” Grandma waved Leslie away.

Leslie stalked over to a wing chair, but stood fuming. She’d risked her life to sneak through a park infested with all kinds of wild animals and then shoveled dirt until she broke her nails and ruined her hands with blisters.

Now Grandma ordered her to leave her alone while she admired her riches.

And what kind of treasure was a she?

An awful thought occurred to Leslie. Prized possessions didn’t have to be coins or gems or gold. If Grandma locked the special gift away as a child, it could be anything. It could be inexpensive jewelry or even—oh, no— or even a toy.

Leslie jerked her head up as Grandma exclaimed with pleasure.

She lifted something out of the box, but the open lid kept Leslie from seeing the object.

“Here she is. Come see, my dear, and I’m sure you’ll agree that Papa did love me best.”

Leslie rushed to Grandma’s side and stared down at the treasure. All she saw was a china doll with long dark curls dressed in a lacy pink gown. She refused to panic, though, and presumed that the true prize resided within the doll or was hidden under the velvet in the chest.

“The doll’s beautiful, Grandma, and I can understand why your sisters were jealous. But what about the diamonds, the jewels, or whatever your prized possession is?”

Grandma’s absorbed expression changed, and she looked up.

Every Story Begins At Home.

“What are you talking about?

This doll is my treasure. I loved her so much, but I couldn’t take the chance that my younger sisters would play with her and break her. So I packed her away for safekeeping.

Now she’s as perfect as the day Papa gave her to me. Funny how I forgot all about her for years. Lately, I’ve been remembering so many things about my childhood. Isn’t that interesting, dear?”

“That’s wonderful, Grandma, but what about my inheritance?” Leslie grasped at straws. “The doll must be an antique. I’ll check into it and see how much money I can get for her.”

“What? You’ll do no such thing. It’s mine, Leslie, and I’ll expect you to keep it and save it as a memento of me.”

Grandma’s voice shook with anger and her arm curved protectively around the doll. She acted as if Leslie wanted to sell her only child to the highest bidder.

Frustration overwhelmed Leslie because Grandma misled her. Now she had nothing to show for all her work and expectations. She stomped away to stare out the window into the darkness. Taking deep breaths, she leaned her head against the cold glass, and finally accepted the fact that she had made false assumptions about the treasure. When she turned back to the room, she saw Grandma curling the doll’s hair around her arthritic fingers. Happiness radiated from her face. The selfishness that held Leslie’s

body rigid with anger slowly released its grip on her. Sighing, she crossed the room.

Sitting down on the edge of Grandma’s bed, she touched the doll’s shiny hair and smoothed down the pink lace dress. Then she reached over for Grandma’s hand and held on tightly.

“I understand now that this gift made you feel special, Grandma. I’ll treasure the doll as a keepsake from you all my life.”

Grandma searched Leslie’s face before nodding.

“Would you like to hear more stories?” she asked.

When Leslie agreed, Grandma shared memories of her childhood that Leslie had never heard before.

She spoke of her loving papa, her beautiful, but remote mother, and her feisty sisters. Leslie glimpsed the young girl with the sparkling eyes and rosy cheeks hidden within her worn face. When her grandmother slipped into a light sleep, the doll still lay nestled in the crook of one arm. Leslie smiled as she acknowledged the truth: Grandma’s treasure was priceless after all. ***** Alicia Stankay is a member of the Ligonier Valley Writers,Taproot Writers Workshop, and Pennwriters, and she lives in Ambridge, PA. Her short stories have been published in Writers' Journal, Writer's Digest, the Taproot Literary Review, and the Loyalhanna Review.

Call for Creative Submissions We have recently teamed up with the Ligonier Valley Writers to develop a new creative section for the Laurel Mountain Post. All local writers are invited to submit original (never before published) works for consideration. Prose and poetry should not exceed 2500 words; longer stories will be serialized if selected for publication. Complete guidelines are available on our website, www.LaurelMountainPost.com.

Your submission will be read by a team of editors, so please be patient once you receive a confirmation receipt. We are truly looking forward to reading your work!

Summer 2012 - 31

Remedies from Home

by Gwen Wolfgang There was a doctor’s office in the small Somerset County town where I grew up, but I never went inside. We had no need for doctors. We had Grandma Landis. She used household supplies to cure whatever ailed you.

There was a head-to-toe treatment for fever. A white enamel basin was filled with nearly boiling water. Several teaspoons of dry mustard powder were dissolved in the steamy water and the foot bath was ready.

around by my best friend, Debbie, who was a head taller than me and outweighed me by forty pounds. I lieu of brakes, my nose slowed my descent as it made contact with the rough pavement.

For the symptoms of a common cold, Vicks was the first line of defense. The pungent ointment was used to grease the chest of the suffering patient. In the event of nasal congestion, it was also slathered on the upper lip. The aroma from the sticky mustache always helped to open every sinus and nasal passage.

While your feet stewed in the water, it was mandatory to drink a large cup of hot lemonade. The purpose of this toasty treatment was to sweat the illness away. You knew you were done when your feet were the color of ripe tomatoes and you could wring at least a cup of sweat from your flannel pajamas. Grandma’s hand was our only thermometer so I don’t know my maximum temperature, but I do know from experience that having a raging fever makes it a whole lot easier to melt a Vicks ball!

When I got home, Grandma held the side of my nose against her left hand and pushed it back into the middle of my face with her right. Without x-rays or anesthesia, the reconstruction was complete. She had performed the same “surgery” on my mother twenty years before. Our noses are still exactly alike.

They are no longer very effective for breathing, but they do work well for decorative purposes.

On the side of the back porch steps, spearmint tea grew in fragrant profusion. Bouquets were hung upside down in the cellar stairway to dry. We called it chewing gum tea. It is still the best cure I know for an upset stomach.

I now prefer my tea in a modern tea bag.

I have not so pleasant memories of papery tea leaves bonding with my teeth and tongue.

In second grade, I developed a patch of ringworm on my left knee. Grandma poured a bottle of India ink into an old bowl and I spent hours kneeling in the ink. The infection was gone long before the ink stains on my knee.

When a sore throat became too painful for talking and swallowing, Plan B was put into action. Grandma would roll the Vicks into a pea-sized ball suitable for sliding into the mouth.

Take my word for it, it takes a very long time for a globule of petroleum jelly to melt in your mouth. I would like to think that the chemical composition of Vicks has changed over the years since the label now warns that it is for external use only.

32 - Summer 2012

Grandma’s response to minor scrapes and bumps was, “You’ll be better before you get a man”. And she was right.

Her roots and berries remedies were always generously seasoned with love and prayer. I am convinced that that is what made them so effective. ***** Gwen Wolfgang is a retired school nurse from Hempfield Area School District. She has recently renewed her interest in writing by joining the New Stanton Writer's Workshop. Her hobbies are knitting and spending time with her five grandchildren.

For occasional irregularity, there was always a pot of prunes stewing on the back burner of the cook stove. They were effective, tasted great and had no side effects.

I only remember one occasion on which Grandma performed surgery. In first grade, I broke my nose on the macadam playground of Poplar Street School. I had become air-born when spun

www.grannyearth.com grannyearth@zoominternet.com 724-542-9713

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Ask Granny Earth: Borage A friend of mine gave me a few Borage plants. I’ve never heard of Borage before and don’t know anything about it. What is it used for and does it need any special care?

You are so lucky to have borage plants and a friend who cares enough to give them to you. Several years ago I had a friend, who traded me a Borage plant for one of my Comfrey plants. I have enjoyed having this beautiful herb, with its blue, star shaped flowers, in my garden every year since then. Comfrey comes back year after year, but Borage does not. It’s an annual and needs re-seeded, or if you make sure the dirt under and around the plant is soft and free from weeds, it will self-seed for next year.

Borage (Borago officinalis): Most authorities consider that the Latin name Borago (from which Borage is taken) is a corruption of corago; from cor (the heart) and ago (I bring). Historically, herbalists have considered Borage to be an herb of courage; making a man merry and joyful.

Plant your Borage in a sunny spot in your garden and cluster the plants, since they tend to get ‘leggy’. I always end up supporting them with a stick, or tying then to the garden fence post to keep them from falling down after heavy rains. It will thrive in poor to moderate soil and little water. So basically it needs very little attention, except for supporting it to keep it from falling over.

Borage grows up to 2 ½ feet high and about 2 feet wide. The leaves are wrinkled, long ovals, covered with prickly little hairs. The flower clusters sit atop long, hollow, prickly stems, which come out of the leaf base. The clusters of vibrant, blue star shaped flowers droop, as if in need of water and attract lots of honey bees.

All parts of the plant have a refreshing cucumber smell and flavor, but because of the thistly hairs, the stem Every Story Begins At Home.

and leaves are rarely used as food.

However, the flowers are a special treat when added to a summer salad or on top of a scoop of yogurt or cottage cheese. If you’re looking for a way to impress your afternoon guests, try serving them a glass of iced tea with Borage flower ice cubes. If you forget to make the ice cubes, just add the flowers to any summer drink. The Romans were the first to use Borage in this way; sprinkling them into a goblet of wine. It was believed to drive away

sadness. We now know that the flowers contain large amounts of essential fatty acids (GLA).

Without adequate amounts of GLA (gamma-linoleic acid) the body goes into a state of chronic inflammation which promotes onset of heart disease, diabetes, alcoholism, atopic dermatitis, premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, high blood pressure and more. GLA also benefits circulatory health by reducing cholesterol and LDL (low-density lipoprotein- the bad cholesterol) levels as it increases the beneficial HDL (High-density lipoprotein). An excellent way to get the benefits of Borage’s GLA is by ingesting Flaxseed /Borage oil which is available at your favorite health food store.

From earliest times Borage was credited with inducing calm and fortitude. Today we are fortunate to have modern scientific research to

document its medicinal qualities. It contains a compound (phytochemical), which when taken internally, not only helps to relieve inflammatory conditions, but also balances the function of the adrenal glands.

Use it as a tonic for the adrenalsover a long period of time in the form of a tea: Pour a cup of boiling water onto 2 or 3 teaspoonfuls of the dried herb (leaves) and infuse for 10 – 15 minutes.

Drink 2 or 3 times a day with a little honey to taste. When applied externally, it aids in the relief of eczema.

When your Borage plants are in full bloom (June, July and August), pick a few long stems. (If you’re planning on saving some seeds for next year, leave a few stems and flowers.

As the flowers finish blooming, watch for and collect the large, black seeds) Tie them together at the cut end and hang them upside down in a warm, airy room away from sunlight. When the leaves are completely dry, (a few weeks to be sure) skin them off and put into a brown paper bag for storage (at least a few more weeks). When you’re sure they’re completely dry, you can transfer the leaves to a jar. Complete drying is essential to prevent mold from forming. I suggest using the completely dried herb for tea or tinctures.

Enjoy your wonderful Borage plants! Don’t be afraid to pick and eat a few flowers in the morning when you walk through your garden. Let yourself just be aware of the sun on your skin, as you savor the delicate taste of Borage. A spiritual joy beyond words!

Seventy-some years young, and following my life-long passion, which is natural healing and teaching others about weed medicine, I believe that we each must do what we can to get back to Nature. In making your own weed medicine, you’re going to be going out looking and identifying certain weeds that grow around youyou’ll be outdoors, in the sunshine and fresh air- getting back to Nature. Maybe you’ll start growing you own weeds- turning your backyard into a weed garden!

Granny Earth has a bachelor’s in Psychology from California University of Pennsylvania (which she earned at age 59), and both a masters and doctorate from Clayton College of Natural Health. Visit her website www.grannyearth.com!

Summer 2012 - 33

And They All Lived . . . Happily Ever After?

by Cindy Blonk Parker “And they all lived happily ever after.”

These are some of my favorite words. As a child I loved to read. My dad was on the Board of Trustees for our local library and my sister and I would tag along with him and bury ourselves deep in the stacks of books, reading everything we could get our hands on while he was at meetings. Then we would go home and act out our favorite stories with our Barbie dolls. Eventually we began to write new stories, our own stories.

I guess it won’t come as too much of a surprise to learn that we both became authors, but of a different sort. We are both ministers, but we are still storytellers, only now the stories that we tell are God’s stories “And they said nothing to anyone, for they were very afraid.” These words are the way Mark’s Gospel ends. I have a hard time with them. I had an especially hard time trying to write a message of hope for Easter morning with them. I knew where to start but…

Fear is a powerful thing. It holds us back, keeps us from living life, and limits our potential. I should know, I’ve been afraid for most of my adult life.

People who know me will be surprised by that admission. One of my friends recently commented that I always seem so sure of myself. “That is a recent development,” I answered her with a smile, thinking back to a life dominated by the fear of failure.

The first time I really remember being gripped by fear was in 6th grade. I was one of the tallest kids in my class and my gym teacher encouraged me to try out for the basketball team. I remember being afraid,

not because I couldn’t play, but because I couldn’t play well. It was the fear of failure that held me back.

My parents always encouraged my younger sister and me to do anything and everything. In fact, my father recently shared with me that he always believed I would be the first female president of the United States. Pretty funny considering I don’t have a political bone in my body. So this fear that was my ever present companion had nothing to do with my parents or the way they raised me. The fear that bloomed inside me and continued to grow was of my own making. It probably had to do with the fact that I am something of a perfectionist.

And I don’t think that I am alone with my fear. We all know something about it. What are you afraid of? Spiders? Snakes? Flying?

Enclosed spaces? Speaking in public? Losing the one that you love the most?

One day while my father and I were at the zoo pushing my six month old daughter along in her stroller, we paused to look at the alligators. He asked if I had ever heard about the time he and my grandfather took my sister and I to see the alligators. I shook my head no and this look of unbridled fear flickered across his face as he began his story. “You were two and your sister was one when grandpa and I got the bright dead to take the two of you to see the alligators at a zoo-like park where alligators were the main attraction. They didn’t have fences or barricades like they do nowadays. It was just this wooden boardwalk above hundreds of alligators and water below. We were only there a short time when I glanced

down and realized your hand was not connected to mine. I looked behind me and saw your sister in grandpa’s hands but you were nowhere to be found. Grandpa must have seen the fear that turned me whiter than a ghost because he said, ‘don’t panic, let’s go back and retrace our steps.’ We did and there you were, picking some yellow wildflowers that were growing along by the fence. I picked you up so fast and practically ran to the car where I buckled you in and sped away, too afraid to tell anyone what happened.”

I think that fear does that to us. It consumes us to the point where we are afraid to share our fear with others. After my dad shared that story with me, the one about the alligators, he confessed that he wished he had shared it sooner. That there was something about speaking his fears out loud that helped him realize he was not alone with his fear. That knowledge was power.

Was he able to live happily ever after?

I think so. Am I? I’ll let you know.

Cindy Parker came to the United Church of Christ by way of the Presbyterian Church. A life-long Presbyterian, she jokes that she was “predestined to become UCC!” Currently called as the Pastor and Teacher of Christ Church UCC in Latrobe, PA and St. John’s UCC in Darlingtoon; she, her husband Larry and three daughters enjoy traveling all over the world! Cindy also serves as a Spiritual Director for the Three Rivers Walk to Emmaus retreats and was part of the team that brought the Kairos Outside Ministry to Pennsylvania.

Kairos (which means special time in Greek) is a prison ministry for women whose lives have been impacted by incarceration. Cindy completed her undergraduate studies at Penn State and her MDiv. from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary along with a year- long internship at Family Hospice and Palliative Care. She enjoys traveling, reading, baking, and photographing her daughters.

We’re Looking for Some Bloggers to Join Our Community of Writers The Laurel Mountain Post is expanding to include the world of digital content in 2012. If you are a committed local blogger who publishes fresh and original material at least once a week, we would like to read your work. If your site matches our editorial vision, we’ll link it to our new blogosphere and consider publishing indivual posts in our print editions. Contact our

34 - Summer 2012

editor, Cathi Gerhard, with information about your blog via email: editor@laurelmountainpost.com Remember, we are a community publication: we are not looking to promote politics, denominational religion, R or X-rated material, or other controversial subjects.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

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Cost: Members - $60 for the first child $30 for each additional child in the same family Non-Members - $75

Summer 2012 - 35

SUMMER EVENTS HAPPENING IN THE LIGONIER VALLEY Sunday Evening Summer Band Concerts – 7:00 PM on the Diamond, May 27th – August 26th 2012 Antiques on the Diamond - Saturday, June 9, 2012 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Summer In Ligonier Arts & Crafts - Friday July 20 and Saturday July 21, 2012 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM The Stroll: Classic Cars, Sidewalk Sales, Entertainment - Friday, August 3 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Dovecote

A unique collection of new and old.

20 Brilliant Ave in Apinwall 412-781-1777

134 West Main Street Ligonier, PA 15658 724-238-4608

Distinctive Children’s Clothing & Gifts and Something for Mom as Well!

136 East Main St in Ligonier 724-238-3181

Constance Donovan Matson D.V.M. 2026 Route 30 East • Ligonier, PA 15658 Office: 724-238-9645 • Fax: 724-995-8123 Cell: 724-331-4475 Email: donovanc@vt.edu

“Dr. Mastson, you’re the best!”

– Basel Wasel

Men’s Shop

104 East Main Street Ligonier, Pennsylvania 15658 Telephone: (724) 238-9235

Shorts • Knit Polos • Sport Jackets Slacks . . . And More

“When How You Look Matters” 36 - Summer 2012

Brands include: Noro, Sublime, Ella Rae, Elsabeth Lavold, Cascade, Araucania Retailer of Ashford Spinning Wheels • Accessories include Nantucket Bagg Co., Clover ‘Takumi Velvet’ & ‘Addi Turbo’ needles • Books and patterns, too!

Michelle Gardner, owner Phone: 724-238-4040

Mon. - Sat. 10 am - 5 pm www.bopeepfineyarns.com

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Song of Sixpence

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A Variety Store Women’s Sportswear and Accessories Gifts and Wool Shop Dusters NAOT and OTBT Shoes & Sandals Monday - Saturday, 11-6 • Sundays 12-4

209 East Main Street in Ligonier, Pennsylvania • 724-995-8024

On the Diamond

ANTIQUES Multi-Dealer Shop

CONNECTIONS CAFE & TEAROOM 109 South Market Street Ligonier, PA 15658 724-238-9611 Soups • Salads • Quiche • Grilled Cheese Desserts • Old Linn Run Coffee • Tea Larry’s Sports Room & Fair Trade Gift Boutique

Join us for upcoming fundraising events:

Open Horse Show at Silver Star Stables

June 9: Pre-entry fee $5/class Day of fee $8/class.

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

Mary Jo Culbertson Proprietor (724) 238-0497

Golf Outing at Ligonier Country Club June 25: $100/golfer including prizes, food throughout the day and luncheon.

Sponsorships and Fundraising Opportunities Available

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AMICA ~ OPEN SUNDAYS!

BAGGALLINI PURSES BEAUTIFUL SCARVES NEW OKAb SANDALS BLENKO GLASS 203 E. MAIN ST • LIGONIER, PA • 724-238-8545

For more information

www.kidsonhorses.org (724) 593-8121

Nickers ‘N Neighs Therapeutic Riding center provides a variety of equine services to individuals with a wide range of disabilities.

These disabilities include, but are not limited to muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, spina bifida, pervasive developmental delay, autism, non-verbal disorders, visual and hearing impairment, and developmental and learning disabilities.

Special Thanks to Equine Chic for their continued support.

Every Story Begins At Home.

Summer 2012 - 37

Summer Community Calendar Through June 16 Fishing for Trout in the Ligonier Valley Ligonier Valley Library, E. Main St. | 724-238-6451 | ligonieralleylibrary.org The exhibit, held in conjunction with the Laurel Highlands Trout Trail Festival, will feature photographs of fly fishing, artifacts and documents.

Located in Pennsylvania Room and Hallway. Mon-Thu 10 am – 8:30 pm.

Fri & Sat 10 am – 5 pm. Closed Sundays and Holidays. This is the Eleventh Annual Historical Photography Show. The mission of these shows is to present a facet of Ligonier Valley history that is interesting, educational and may have been overlooked in the past. In addition, the photographs and documents copied become a permanent part of the Pennsylvania Room collection. This is an ideal manner of preserving our history and provides patrons with a strong base from which to conduct research.

What do you get when you bring together a fiddle, mandolin, banjo, guitar, upright slap bass, rhinestone costumes, hilarious comedy and great classic country, bluegrass, rockabilly and gospel music at a theatre near you ... Branson On The Road®! Branson On The Road® has over 20 years of experience of performing at the top theatres in Branson on the famous 76 Country Music Boulevard (known as “The Strip”), and is the first national touring show named for the famous city. The show delivers the Branson traditions of good, clean, family fun wherever they go ... and they go all over the US and beyond! Shows at 2 and 8 p.m.

Tickets $25, $30 and $35.

May 4-5 Family Outdoor Adventure Weekend www.sequanota.com | 814-629-6627 | Sequanota Conference Center & Camp in Jennerstown, PA It’s choose-your-own adventure weekend at Sequanota! Fun and family are the focus of this spiritual weekend. Join in on adventures such as rockclimbing, hiking, low ropes, and more. $125 per camper. Sequanota is a yearround, Christian-based retreat center and camp, located in the Laurel Highlands region of south central Pennsylvania. We offer lodging from cabins to motel-style rooms, food service, and many recreational opportunities on 390 beautiful acres at the base of the Laurel Ridge. We host retreats, meetings, reunions, special events, banquets, and training workshops. In the summer months, we provide Christian camping for families and youth grades K-12.

The official state fish of Pennsylvania, the Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) is the only trout native to Pennsylvania waters. A choice of most epicures, it is the most beautiful and widely distributed member of the salmon family in the State and is found in the small, cold mountain streams and lakes and in the spring-fed limestone streams of the valleys.

May 1 Vanishing Trout – The Repeating History of Pennsylvanians and Their Environment Ligonier Valley Library, E. Main St. | 724-238-6451 | ligoniercalleylibrary.org Monty Murty, President of the local Forbes Trail Chapter of Trout Unlimited, will present the program in the Community Room. Light refreshments will be served. 7 pm.

May 1-16 The Smithsonian’s Civil War Exhibit The Victorian Vandergrift Museum & Historical Society 184 Sherman Ave in Vandergrift, PA | 724-568-1990 | www.vvmhs.org In honor of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War, sponsored by the Senator John Heinz Regional History Center and the Smithsonian Institute. Many special events and activities for the whole family!

May 2 John Noble’s 16th Annual Westmoreland Night of the Stars www.palacetheatre.org | 724-925-1123 | The Palace Theatre, 21 W. Otterman Street in Greensburg, PA The year’s most exciting night of high school musical theatre with excerpts from productions by Belle Vernon, Greensburg Central Catholic, Greensburg-Salem, Derry Area, Franklin Regional, Greater Latrobe, Hempfield, Jeannette, Kiski, Ligonier Valley, Norwin, Penn Trafford, Valley, Yough and Homeschoolers. Show starts at 6:45; admission is $20 May 4 Branson On the Road® www.bransonontheroad.com | 724-836-8000 | The Palace Theatre, 21 W. Otterman St in Greensburg PA 38 - Summer 2012

Ligonier Outfitters 127 W. Main Street Ligonier, PA 15658 724-238-4900 Fly Fishing Center Casting and Tying Lessons Guided Fishing Trips Men’s and Women’s Apparel Home & Gift Ideas Orvis Fly Fishing 101 Every Saturday in May at 9 am Free introductory lesson in fly fishing You will receive special in-store offers valid toward purchase of Orvis products and a Free Trout Unlimited membership (a $35 value)

FREE UPS SHIPPING with catalog orders

www.ligonieroutfitters.com

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

May 5 River City Brass presents Brass to the Future www.thepalacetheatre.org| 800-292-7222 | The Palace Theatre, 21 W. Otterman St in Greensburg PA Tickets, $24, $26, $31; $2 Discount for students and seniors. Often called the “Boston Pops — In Brass,” the band’s virtuoso musicians present a varied program, including familiar folk tunes, ballads, Broadway and Hollywood favorites, marches and classical and contemporary masterworks. Founded in 1981 in Pittsburgh, this wonderfully spirited band is now in its 28th season, and continues to perform in its hometown and throughout America as the only year-round professional concert band in the nation.

May 5 Bug Puppets & Fly Fishing www.wpnr.org | 724-537-5284 | Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve, 744 Walzer Way in Latrobe, PA Imagine creating an imitation insect, a bug puppet, then casting it with a fishing rod so it lands where a trout is, a bug puppet show. Fly fishing is the art of using artificial insects to catch fish. Make our own bug puppets and put on our own bug puppet show. Learn how trout stream insects mark the environmental danger zone for all living things that share its environment, including humans. 10 a.am. FREE. Program led by Forbes Trail Chapter of Trout Unlimited.

May 5 Hard-to-Recycle-Stuff Collection Carmike Cinema/Wynnsong Theater on Route 22 in Delmont | www.westmorelandcleanways.org | 724-836-4129 Westmoreland Cleanways sponsors collections every spring and fall for those hard to dispose and hard to recycle items that include tires, vehicle (lead acid) batteries, appliances (including freon-containing), scrap metal and electronics. Once collected, as much of the material as possible is recycled. 8:30 am to Noon. Future Dates: September 22 in North Huntingdon (location TBD), October 13 at WCCC in Youngwood.

• Automobile and light truck tires: $1.75 per tire off-rim, $2.75 per tire on-rim • Tractor tires and tractor trailer tires: Fees vary; determined at collection • Freon-containing appliances: $20 per unit • Scrap metal/non-freon appliances: No charge • Vehicle batteries: No charge • Electronics (residential): No charge • Electronics (commercial): No charge • Household batteries (rechargeable/alkaline): No charge • Ink Cartridges: No Charge • CFLs: No charge (Fluorescent Light tubes are NOT accepted, but are collected at the Household Hazardous Waste Collection – October 6 at WCCC in Youngwood) May 5-6; 9 am to 5 pm 57th Annual Apple Blossom Festival www.appleblossomfestival.info| 717-677-7444 | South Mountain Fairgrounds, 615 Narrows Rd., Route 234, Biglerville, PA Highlights of this year’s festival include live entertainment, free orchard bus tours, wine tasting and sales, hundreds of arts and craft demonstrations and sales, wagon rides, agricultural exhibits and the presentation of the Pennsylvania Apple Queen. Children’s activities include free apple pie eating and apple bobbing contests, petting zoo, pony rides, puppet and magic shows.

May 6 Youth & Family Outdoor Show Keystone State Park, 1150 Keystone State Park Rd in Derry | 724-668-2939 The Westmoreland County Sportsmen’s League, along with the PA Game Commission and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, are hosting this free youth day! Children and families can learn about boating, orienteering, trees, rock climbing, ice fishing, field dogs, awards and much more. Don’t miss this opportunity to see the great wonders and recreational opportunities that are available. Many sportsmen’s club, organization and exhibitors promoting the outdoors will be in attendance! Everyone is welcome. Sponsored by Keystone Every Story Begins At Home.

State Park and co-sponsored by Westmoreland County Sportsmen’s League, Gander Mountain and Pa. Game Commission. The exhibitors will be located near Pavilion # 1. Contact Deputy Wildlife Conservation Officer John Kozubal at 724-744-7344 with questions. Event will be held from 11 am - 3 pm.

May 11 Art on Tap Westmoreland Museum of American Art | 221 N. Main St. Greensburg, PA www.wmuseumaa.org | 724-837-1500 Join us for a casual happy hour at The Westmoreland the second Friday of every month! Relax and enjoy music, scavenger hunts, and fun with friends! What a great way to end your work week! Admission is $7 and includes 2 drink tickets (beer or wine). Time : 5:00PM - 7:00PM Cost : $7 (includes admission & 2 drink tickets) May 12 Family Fishing Festival Keystone State Park, 1150 Keystone State Park Rd in Derry | 724-668-2939 Looking for a great way to connect with your family? Discover just how much fun fishing can be when you do it together at a PA Fish and Boat Commission Family Fishing Program. You and your family will discover what it takes to be a “SMART” angler and learn basic fishing skills like knot tying, casting, baiting the hook, and taking a fish off the hook. After practicing these skills, you will have the opportunity to fish – no fishing license required. Equipment and bait will be provided by the PA Fish and Boat Commission. The “catch?” Adults must bring a child and children must bring an adult. You will be learning and fishing together!

9 am to 1 pm. Registration is not required.

May 12 West Overton Garden Society 8th annual May Mart Plant Sale 9 am to 1 pm, West Overton Museums, 109 W. Overton Rd. in Scottdale, PA www.westovertonvillage.org. | Lois Eberly, 724-220-5251 Held at the big barn, the event features heirloom tomato and vegetable plants, annuals, perennials, herbs, hanging baskets, Oglevee’s geraniums, and flowers for Mother’s Day. Guests are invited to bring a plant and take a plant from the Swap Table. In addition to plant sales, there will be vendors selling pastries and fresh roasted coffee/hot chocolate/teas. Parking and admission are free. The sale benefits the garden society, which maintains the museum gardens and grounds.

If you are interested in working with plants and tending gardens, the West Overton Garden Society would be happy to have you as a member.

Please call Jan Brubacher, 724-887-8030.

May 13 Antiques & Collectibles Market Historic Hanna’s Town, 809 Forbes Trail Rd. in Greensburg, PA www.hannastown.org | 724-532-1935 Historic Hanna’s Town has hosted its popular Antiques & Collectibles sales for over 35 years! This longstanding community tradition brings together more than 100 vendors in a quaint 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.

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.

May 16 Tiny Wonder Time: “Nature Moms” www.wpnr.org | 724-537-5284 | Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve, 744 Walzer Way in Latrobe, PA 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. Registration Required. $1 per child, per class. 10 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.

Summer 2012 - 39

May 17-20 Bluegrass Fest www.gettysburgbluegrass.com | 717-642-8749 | Granite Hill Camping Resort and Bed & Breakfast, 3340 Fairfield Rd., Gettysburg, PA Granite Hill Camping Resort has been home to the internationally acclaimed Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival since 1979. Each festival features top Bluegrass and traditional country musicians performing on our main stage, presenting informative workshops and meeting and greeting fans from all over the worlds. See website for list of performers.

May 18 Taste of History Fort Ligonier | 200 S. Market St. in Ligonier, PA | 724-238-9701 www.fortligonier.com Enjoy a casual evening with friends, 5:30-7:30 pm. Living history demonstrations, food and music!

May 19-20 Detachment of the 60th Regiment – Royal Americans Fort Ligonier | 200 S. Market St. in Ligonier, PA | 724-238-9701 www.fortligonier.com Encampment, drills, and musket firing demonstrations.

May 18-20 Heidi Ligonier Valley Theater | 208 West Main St in Ligonier | 724-238-6514 | www.valleyplayers.org Our Footlights Childrens Theatre presents the beloved story of a young orphan in Switzerland. Written in 1880, Heidi still has the appeal of audiences the world over for all ages. Friday night show starts at 7:30 PM and Saturday & Sundy shows start at 2:30 PM. Standard Bank of Ligonier will once again sponsor the Make-A-Wish Foundation in partnership with the Valley Players of Ligonier with displays and candy sales in the lobby. May 18 at 7:30 pm, May 19 & 20 at 2:30 pm. $10 adults, $5 students, $2 Children (3 to 5 yrs). For reservations, please call!

May 18-20 16th Annual Springs Antique Machinery Show “Preserving the Historical Past for the Future” www.mvaapa.org | 570-374-9420 | 735 Salem Rd., Selinsgrove, PA The Middlecreek Valley Antique Association’s 16th Annual Spring Antique Machinery Show will feature antique tractors, engines and other related farm equipment, along with lots of displays, demonstrations, flea market and craft vendors and lots of good food too. Free parking, admission, camping, barrel train rides for the kids and entertainment featuring truck and tractor pulls, tractor square dancing and entertainment.

This year, we are very excited to conduct the 9th annual Auction for The Animals online from May 21st to May 31st at BiddingForGood.com/afa, the leading online charity auction platform for non-profit organizations. So far, our auction will feature vacation getaways to Williamsburg, VA, Hilton Head, SC, and Surfside Beach, SC. We are just beginning to fill our catalog – keep an eye on our auction page for the latest items!

May 22 Antique Fly Rods and Fishing Tackle Road Show Ligonier Valley Library, E. Main St. | 724-238-6451 | lvlibrary@wpa.net www.ligoniercalleylibrary.org Several experts will be on hand to help identify items and provide resources for valuing them. Light refreshments will be served.

Community Room, 7 pm.

May 25 Evening Canoe Tour Keystone State Park, 1150 Keystone State Park Rd in Derry | 724-6682939 Join us for an entertaining evening on Keystone Lake! This unique program involves paddling the lake in canoes, searching for clues of days gone by and identifying flora and fauna of the area. 6-8 pm. Please call 724-668-2566 or email pmcquistia@pa.gov to register for this program.

May 19 An Affair with Lincoln Lincoln Highway Heritage Corrider | 3435 Route 30 in Latrobe near the Kingston Dam | www.lhhc.org | 724-879-4241

May 25-27 Dog Show 410-590-7765 | Jefferson County Fairgrounds, 1514 Rte. 28 N., Brookville, PA

Antique autos, fine artwork, unique experiences, tapas,desserts, spirits, and a trivia challenge will have guests exploring each room in this 197 year old National Register listed building. $65 per ticket: pre-registration required.

Wash your dogs and pack your bags! In addition to the club (ISSDC) annual international show we are pleased to announce two additional shows each sponsored by the NSBR and TSSR! Focusing on breed specific education, we are planning on two seminars Fri. night and Sat. midday. Camp sites available at the fairgrounds. Rooms blocked at Quality Inn. Working on food options. Planning on CC, TDI and TT on Sun. morning. Fri. night plan on a wonderful surprise. Shiloh seminar followed by a handling session and a social potluck dinner to share. Sat. midday we are having a special guest lecturer, more to come! Bring your tents, coolers and chairs, oh yeah don’t forget the dogs, and join us for a wonderful weekend. For questions please call Heather O’Connor at 410590-7765 at 410-590-7765 or check out their facebook page.

May 19 Theatre Fun Fest 2012 www.totempoleplayhouse.org | 717-352-2164 | 9555 Golf Course Rd., Fayetteville, PA Free community event. Another op’nin another show! Special 2012 season sneak preview with the case and crew of Chaps. Free performances! Plus a look backstage, kids games and crafts, face painting, magic show, clowns, balloon sculptures, children’s story theatre, Totem Pole Attic Yard Sale, live music, costume displays, gigantic bake sale, lots of food and fun. Something for everyone!

Admission is free!

May 25-26 Anthracite Heritage Festival of the Arts www.nccarts.com | 570-850-9121 | Market Street, Shamokin, PA Historical trolley and carriage rides, parade luminary service, fireworks, entertainment, exhibits, artisans and vendors line Market Street.

40 - Summer 2012

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

May 26 Geranium Festival Downtown Connellsville, PA | 724-626-0141 | www.fayettetrust.org There will be geraniums, hanging baskets, perennials, plants, shrubs, and more available for purchase. Crafts for sale will include jewelry, pottery, wood art for home and yard, nature and wildlife photographs, dolls, stained glass, florals, frames, Steeler shirts, and much more. Our local churches, school organizations, and the Lions Club will be providing favorite ethnic food. There will also be activities for children.

10 am to 5 pm. Sponsored by the Connellsville Area Garden Club.

May 26 Wild Edible Plants Hike Keystone State Park, 1150 Keystone State Park Rd in Derry | 724-668-2566 In order to enjoy nature’s bounty of delicious wild foods, you need to be able to identify what is safe to eat, as well as when to harvest the plants and how to prepare them. Meet at the visitor center. Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes (you may want to bring insect repellent and water). 11 am to noon. Please call 724-668-2566 or email pmcquistia@pa.gov to register for this program.

May 26-27 Detachment of the 8th PA Regiment in Garrison Fort Ligonier | 200 S. Market St. in Ligonier, PA | 724-238-9701 www.fortligonier.com Encampment, drills, and musket firing demonstrations.

May 27 GPS Treasure Hunt Keystone State Park, 1150 Keystone State Park Rd in Derry | 724-668-2566 A hike through the park is a great way to find hidden treasures! Meet at the visitor center to learn some basic GPS skills and hike with us to discover both natural and not-so-natural prizes of the woods and fields of Keystone. 1pm to 3 pm. Please call 724-668-2566 or email pmcquistia@pa.gov to register for this program.

June 2 Volunteer Clean-Up Day www.wpnr.org | 724-537-5284 | Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve, 744 Walzer Way in Latrobe, PA Calling all volunteers of all shapes and sizes…what can you do? Weed, mulch, plant, clean or gather? We have tools and refreshments, bring along a friend or community group and contribute to maintaining the Reserve for all to enjoy! Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Please call to register. 10 a.m.

June 2-3 Hunters Valley Winery Open House & Craft Fair www.huntersvalleywines.com | 717-444-7211 | 3 Orchard Rd., Liverpool, PA Taste wine with snacks, mingle with other wine-loving folks, stroll through craft booths and enjoy the beauty of the vineyard at Hunters Valley Winery’s Open House & Craft Fair.

June 2-17 Wild Rose Renaissance Faire www.wildroserenfaire.net | 814-462-9786 | 20354 Rte. 957, Columbus, PA The Wild Rose is a growing Medieval Faire located in rural Columbus.

This will be the Faire’s sixth year. We have three stages with live performances including fire breathing, music and comedy for adults and kids both! Live combat takes place on the chess board and good food can be found at the vendor stands. Handmade crafts, weapons and trinkets are bountiful with a special kid’s area featuring crafts and activities.

Patrons are encouraged to dress in period clothes and immerse themselves in the lifestyle of another time! Faire takes place weekends only, rain or shine. Hours Sat. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Weekend and season passes are available at a discounted rate. See the website for details.

Every Story Begins At Home.

June 6-9 Johnstown Film Festival Johnstown Flood Museum and Peoples Natural Gas Park www.johnstownfilmfest.org | 814-539-1889 Seventh annual competition of short films, sponsored by the Johnstown Area Heritage Association (www.jaha.org). Lineup to be announced.

June 8 - June 17 The Gettysburg Festival www.gettysburgfestival.org | 717-334-0853 | Historic Gettysburg, Gettysburg, PA The Gettysburg Festival is a comprehensive 10-day arts festival presenting world-class artists and performers in a variety of free and ticketed events. The festival celebrates American creativity in all genres of the arts, including music, theater, visual art, culinary arts and children’s programming. Charming venues throughout historic Gettysburg include The Majestic Theater, Lincoln Square and Gettysburg College. Featuring a mix of traditional American artists, as well as innovative modern talent, the Gettysburg Festival is a non-profit cultural tourism initiative. Enrich your spirit with the arts and immerse yourself in culture.

June 9 3rd Annual Five Alarm Mountain Madness Chili Cook-Off Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, 1001 Lafayette Dr. in Farmington, PA www.nemacolin.com | 866-386-6957 Nemacolin’s 3rd Five Alarm Mountain Madness is an ICS - International Chili Society sanctioned cook-off. Participants can compete in three categories: Red Chili, Chili Verde and Salsa. Over $5,000 in cash prizes with a $2,000 prize to the 1st place Red Chili! Nemacolin has been named a Regional Cook-off within the circuit meaning the winners qualify directly for the World’s Championship! Portion of event proceeds to benefit the Farmington Volunteer Fire Department.

June 9 Antiques on the Diamond Downtown Ligonier, PA | www.ligonierchamber.com | 724-238-4200 Join us for Antiques on the Diamond! Over 60 vendors display their wares around the diamond and down East & West Main Streets. Just about anything antique is here! Two great days - Saturday June 9, and Saturday, August 25. Rain or shine!

June 9-10 Detachment of the 60th Regiment – Royal Americans Fort Ligonier | 200 S. Market St. in Ligonier, PA | 724-238-9701 www.fortligonier.com Encampment, drills, and musket firing demonstrations.

June 10 Antiques & Collectibles Market Historic Hanna’s Town, 809 Forbes Trail Rd. in Greensburg, PA www.hannastown.org | 724-532-1935 June 10 George Washington Returns Fort Ligonier | 200 S. Market St. in Ligonier, PA | 724-238-9701 www.fortligonier.com Meet George Washington, by Dean Malissa, offical portrayer of our First President at Mount Vernon. 11:30 am - 4:30 pm.

June 10 Art on Tap Westmoreland Museum of American Art | 221 N. Main St. Greensburg, PA www.wmuseumaa.org | 724-837-1500 Join us for a casual happy hour at The Westmoreland the second Friday of every month! Relax and enjoy music, scavenger hunts, and fun with friends! What a great way to end your work week! Admission is $7 and includes 2 drink tickets (beer or wine). Time : 5:00PM - 7:00PM Cost : $7 (includes admission & 2 drink tickets)

Summer 2012 - 41

June 10 Orienteering Event, sponsored by Western PA Orienteering Club Keystone State Park, 1150 Keystone State Park Rd in Derry | 724-668-2939 Beginner Workshops - intended for total novices, there will be two of these; both will do the same thing. The first will start at 11 am the second will start at 1 pm. These workshops will emphasize understanding the maps, using the compass to orient the map, and terrain association.

There will be about 30 minutes of instruction followed by about a one hour activity putting what was taught into practice.

Intermediate Workshop - intended for someone who has tried orienteering once or twice. There will be one workshop that begins at 12 noon. The workshop will emphasize following a bearing, pace counting and adjusting to the terrain and vegetation. There will also be some discussion of catching features and aiming off. There will be alternating instructional and activity sessions lasting about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

Advanced Training - intended for experienced orienteers. There will be at least two exercises available: one on line orienteering and another using a map without trails. The advanced exercises will be available from 11 am to 2 pm. Experienced orienteers can start these on their own schedule, you must finish by 3:30 pm.

IMPORTANT: YOU MUST WEAR APPROPRIATE CLOTHES: long pants and shoes and socks fit for hiking or running; there is a lot of poison ivy out there. We will loan compasses to those who don’t have them. All of the workshop elements are free.

June 14 Giant Indoor/Outdoor Flea Market Saint Emma Monastery, 1001 Harvey Ave. in Greensburg, PA www.stemma.org | 724-834-3060 Items include Dishes, Glassware, Children’s Items, Furniture, Seasonal Items, Books, CDs, DVDs, knickknacks, and much, much more. Also enjoy halupki, haluski, pierogies, pizza, fish sandwiches, homemade cookies and ice cream sundaes. Donations accepted – please call!

Admission is $5.

June 14-16 9th Annual National Road Chainsaw Carving Festival Addison’s Community Park, Fike Lane in Addison, PA www.carvingfest.confluencelions.org | 814-395-3469 | free admission Managed by the Confluence Lions Club, the festival will host chainsaw carvers from all over the US and other countries. They will be carving, displaying, and selling their carved items to the public.

Each carver is asked to donate one or more (maximum of 4) carvings to be auctioned off to the highest bidder. Don’t miss the opportunity to own this “extreme” art. Net proceeds from the festival benefits the Somerset County Blind Center (part of “Susquehanna Association for the Blind & Vision Impaired”). Over the past 8 Festivals the Confluence Lions Club has donated $88,805 to the Somerset County Blind Center.

It’ll be hard to top last year’s festival, as the weather was great, the bands were amazing, the music workshops were full, and the crowd was the biggest we’ve seen so far. But from all indications, our 10th Annual will be the best one yet. (We’ve even scheduled perfect weather once again.) We’re now putting the final touches on everything. Last year’s dinners were a rousing success, but we’re tweaking the menus and adding some new items to provide an even bigger and better variety of great food. The music workshops will be back, as will the chainsaw wood carver, kids’ activities, and “cow plop” contest.

Tickets for the weekend are still only $25 in advance (until June 11th) and $30 at the gate. Weekend tickets include free camping. Friday evening only is $15 at the gate and Saturday’s all-day concert is $25.

Kids under 10 are admitted free. For fans who can’t attend all day on Saturday, we’re now providing special evening pricing after the supper break. While you may miss all the great afternoon music and activities, a gate price of $15 still provides an opportunity for an evening of incredible music.

June 15-17 Pennsylvania Lavender Festival www.palavenderfestival.com | 717-642-6387 | Willow Pond Farm, 145 Tract Rd., Fairfield, PA The Pennsylvania Lavender Festival, founded in 2001, is held annually the third weekend in June at Willow Pond Farm in Fairfield, 10 minutes west of Gettysburg and 90 minutes from Washington, DC and Baltimore, MD. The only such event in the Eastern U.S., the three-day festival offers sensory delights and a wide variety of experiences for participants including tours of the lavender farm’s 2.5 acres of plantings.

Visit with vendors, find practically everything lavender under out “Lavender Tent” or start your own lavender garden with some of the nearly 100 varieties available at our certified organic greenhouses. A modest admission fee is charged; children 12 and under are free. Herbal picnic fare is available for purchase or you can bring your own. Free parking is available at Fairfield school where a free shuttle bus will bring you directly to the festival. Handicapped parking is available at Willow Pond Farm. No pets. Fri. - Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

June 16 11th Annual Beer & Gear Festival Wilderness Voyageurs, 103 Garrett St. in Ohiopyle, PA www.wilderness-voyageurs.com | 724-329-1000 3:30 - 7 pm. $20 Festival admission (no advance sales). Beer sampling is complimentary (ID required). Live music by Half Bad Blue Grass. For list of participating brewers, please visit website.

June 16 Bassmasters Fishing Derby and Contest Keystone State Park, 1150 Keystone State Park Rd in Derry | 724-668-2939

June 15-17 Miners’ Memorial Day Festival Downtown Windber, PA | www.echf.windberpa.org | 814-479-3361

Enjoy a day of fishing and fun. This Fishing Event begins at Pavilion #1 and includes a Fishing Derby for all ages and a Casting Kids Contest for children (7-14 years old). Both events run from 9am – 1pm with prizes distributed at 2pm.

Each year we have been blessed by your generosity that has enabled us to offer good, quality entertainment for all members of your family. We are proud to offer not only Windber residents, but visitors from near and far, a taste of old- fashioned hometown hospitality; from parades to concerts, museums to crafts/food, and dances to fireworks … all served up with a generous smiling, welcoming attitude from our volunteers.

June 16 Festival in the Forest www.forestcounty.com/artscouncil.html | 814-755-3338 | Route 36, Five miles south of Tionesta, Tionesta, PA

June 15-16 10th Annual Laurel Highlands Bluegrass Festival Route 271 Waterford, PA (5 miles north of Ligonier) www.laurelhighlandsbluegrass.com | 724-238-8646 Your hosts for this event are the Ligonier Township Volunteer Fire Department, Station #44. They recently realized that holding a bluegrass festival was the perfect way to bring folks to the beautiful Laurel Highlands for some great music and also to raise funds to help keep the fire department running. They’re working hard to make this a top-notch event, both this year and for years to come.

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The Forest Area Arts Council sponsors this art competition and festival.

Judged art in many categories, music all day, artist/artisan vendor booths and food by the local lions club.

June 16-17 Children’s Living History Weekend Compass Inn Museum | US 30 Laughlintown, PA | 724-238-4983 www.compassinn.com Special hands-on activities are available for children.

Ages 3 & up can do a simple open hearth cooking project, dip candles, churn butter and play early American games.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

June 18-22 Fort Kids Camp Fort Ligonier | 200 S. Market St. in Ligonier, PA | 724-238-9701 www.fortligonier.com Day camp for kids who have completed grades 2, 3, 4 or 5. Monday through Friday 9 am - 2 pm.

June 19-24 Western Pennsylvania Laurel Festival 814-849-4751 | Memorial Park, Sylvania Street, Brookville, PA This week-long annual celebration honoring the blooming of the Mountain Laurel features a pageant, carnival, parade, craft and sidewalk sale, food court, Battle of the Bands, Karaoke and much more. Most events start at 6 p.m. For more information please contact Joyce Toven at 814-849-4751 or jere@penn.com.

June 20 Tiny Wonder Time: Dads in Nature www.wpnr.org | 724-537-5284 | Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve, 744 Walzer Way in Latrobe, PA 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. Registration Required. $1 per child, per class. 10 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.

June 20-23 Made in America Tours Event www.factorytours.org | 888-858-9675 | 155 W. Market St., York, PA York County’s Annual Made In America Tours Event invites you behind the scenes at more than 40-plus free tours and attractions to discover how America’s favorite products are crafted in the Factory Tour Capitol of the World! Let your senses soar as you taste, touch and tour! Your mouth will water as you watch tasty treats become coated in chocolate at Wolfgang Candy, voted one of the “Top 5 Tasty Tours” by Food Network.

Become a devotee when you taste a warm potato chip fresh off the line at Martin’s Potato Chips. In addition to year-round favorites like Utz Quality Foods and Susquehanna Glass, the Made In America Tours Event features exclusive tours from hand-twisted pretzels to quality craft beer only available during this special event.

July 20-22 East Brady Area Riverfest 724-526-5174 | Graham Field, Verner Street, East Brady, PA Fun-filled weekend with something for everyone. Parade will kick things off Friday night. Food, craft vendors, live music, rides and games for kids, contests, fireworks, auction and more. July 20 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.; July 21 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.; July 22 11:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

June 22 Celebrate Lancaster www.lancastercityevents.com/celebrate.html | 717-291-4758 | 100 N. Queen St., Lancaster, PA Celebrate Lancaster, the largest of the City’s events, brings over 15,000 people to Downtown Lancaster to experience Festivities including live music on two stages, over 20 food vendors along North Queen Street, two pub areas with locally crafted beer and wine, plus fireworks!

June 23-24 Art on the Yough Yough River Park in Connellsville, PA | 724-626-0141 www.connellsvillehistoricalsociety.com A festival of local and regional artists held in conjunction with the Connellsville Area Historical Society’s Braddock’s Crossing.

The festival starts at 11:00 on Saturday and 12 noon on Sunday and concludes at 5:00 both days. River Crossing at 1:00 each day.

June 29 - July 1 Arts, Crafts, and Food Festival www.ellwood-city-festival.net | 724-758-5630 | Ewing Park, Ellwood City, PA

Every Story Begins At Home.

Imagine Nation Studio Sundays Every Sunday from 12-3 PM, children and their favorite adult can drop by the Museum for free, themed art activity. Available for kids of all ages to learn about art and to give them the opportunity to create their own art project in the studio. There will be a different art project featured each week.

May - Spring Into Summer As the seasons change from spring to summer, come into the studio to explore some bright and colorful projects that celebrate these cheerful and sunny days.

June - Beautiful Bugs Summer brings with it lots of different bugs, many of which display colorful and creative markings. You’ll have lots of fun exploring some of these beautiful bugs, from butterflies to lady bugs and bees, with creative buggy projects in the studio.

July - Inspired by Famous Artists Get creative as you find out about some of America’s famous artists (a few of them have art works in our Museum) and try your hand at making a variety of art work inspired by their creativity.

August - Exploring Collage and Assemblage Discover how much fun it can be cutting up paper and gluing it in new and interesting ways. You’ll explore fun and fascinating techniques to create new images from 2D and 3D images and objects.

Funding for Imagine Nation Studio Sundays is provided by Peoples Natural Gas. Time : 12:00PM - 3:00PM; Cost : Free

Summer Art Camps Where children can expand and explore their creativity through innovative and engaging programs taught by professional artist instructors. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Campers may sign up for one or all the weeks for their age group. Time : 8:45AM - 3:00PM; Cost : Members $125, Non-members $140 . To register or for more information, contact by email education@wmuseumaa.org or phone at 724/837-1500 ext. 10 or 19.

June 11-15: Art in America and Around the World Create your own art inspired by art from many different countries and cultures. We’ll make our own American scenery landscapes, explore Mexican portraits, African masks and Chinese ink drawings, and take a trip to Carnegie Museum of Art to look at art from around the world. Developed for children ages 7-9.

June 18-22: Messy to Your Elbows Explore, experiment and manipulate paint, felt, paper, wood and other art materials into 2D and 3D artwork. We’ll make our own inks and dyes from natural substances and when we’re done, wash our hands with some homemade soap. We’ll visit the Society for Contemporary craft to explore some more artworks made from interesting and crafty materials. Developed for children ages 7-9.

June 25-29: Real to Not So Real Alter realism into abstraction by taking an original realistic picture and morphing it into abstract variations of itself. Incorporating shapes, color, design and texture with cloth, cardboard, paint, acrylic polymer and paper pulp to create a 3D collage using layers of multiple textures. We’ll check out some other inspired uses of odd materials on a visit to the Mattress Factory.

Developed for children ages 7-9.

Mon. July 09, 2012 to Fri. July 13, 2012 Masterful Sculpture Be inspired while working with materials and themes used by a variety of famous sculptors. Create melting sculptures, kinetic mobiles, functional foods and nature sculptures with found objects. We’ll take a trip to the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts to see a special exhibition of sculpture.

Developed for children ages 10-12.

July 16-20: It’s Not Easy Being Green Have you ever noticed that some gardens are like a work of art? Can you imagine how much fun it might be to design a landscape that is like a giant painting? We’ll focus on plants and landscaping as an art form and explore garden inspired masterpieces. A trip to the Phipps Conservatory will give us a great opportunity to explore some themed gardens and landscapes inspired by flora from all around the world. Developed for children ages 10-12.

Westmoreland Museum of American Art | 724-837-1500 221 N. Main St. Greensburg, PA www.wmuseumaa.org

Summer 2012 - 43

More than 200 arts and crafts booth. A wide variety of canvas and slate paintings, as well as handmade, reasonably priced crafts from candles to curtains, jewelry to stained glass, wooden gifts to woven hammocks.

Bands playing rock and roll, country and gospel. Chorale groups and other vocal groups. Dance troupes recitals such as ballet, tap, square dancing and clogging. And on Sunday morning we provide a nondenominational church service. Although seating is provided, you may want to bring your own lawn chair to ensure your comfort throughout the day. There is a “Kids Corner” with face painting, sand sculptures and many other activities tailored just for them. Fireworks Finale!

Festival is proud to be a tradition in the region and invites everyone to celebrate Independence Day in their own unique way. Bring your family, bring your friends, bring everyone you know and spend the day dancing to live music, eating tons of great ethnic foods, and shopping your time away at the fabulous Artist Market. You can bring the kids too for some fun creative craft-making or a trip around the petting zoo. There’s even a whole stage of kid’s entertainment with tons of different performances all day long.

Whatever it is you want to do, or whoever you want to bring, Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival welcomes one and all to take part in this Independence Day celebration at Twin Lakes Park. It’s fun for everyone!

June 30 Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra Fort Ligonier | 200 S. Market St. in Ligonier, PA | 724-238-9701 www.fortligonier.com

July 7 Raptor Education – Birds of Prey www.wpnr.org | 724-537-5284 | Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve, 744 Walzer Way in Latrobe, PA

June 30 Special Day for Special Kids Keystone State Park, 1150 Keystone State Park Rd in Derry | 724-668-2939

Come learn about the important role that birds of prey play in our everyday lives, and how essential the conservation of these animals is for not only human habitat but wildlife habitat as well. Meet a real bird of prey up-close and watch it fly! 10 a.m. FREE program led by Justin Sindorf.

Special Day for Special Kids is an exciting day of activities and opportunities for children with disabilities. Activities include Fishing, Clowns, Pontoon Rides, Cook-Out, Music, Face Painting Petting Zoo and much more. 10 am – 3 pm. Please pre-register for this event by calling Eanna 724-539-2731, or Keystone State Park Office at 724-668-2939.

July 7-14 Derry Township’s 25th Agricultural Fair New Derry Fairgrounds, Route 982 | www.derrytwpagfair.org

July 2-8 40th Annual Pineknotters’ Days www.northumberlandborough.com | 570-473-3414 | King Street Park, Northumberland, PA

This year is our 25th annual fair. Come out and enjoy our annual agricultural fair with livestock, animals, fishing, antique tractor rodeo, bingo, food, exhibits, pet show, tractor pull, arts and crafts show, fleece and fiber show, carnival rides, market sale, contests, fireworks and much more.

July 2: Soapbox Race, Fourth and Kings Streets, 8 a.m. Pre-registration required. July 3: Church Service in King Street Park, 7 p.m. July 4: Craft Fair in King Street Park, 9 a.m., Vendors and Entertainment, 10 a.m. 10 p.m. July 5-8: Vendors and Entertainment, 6 - 10 p.m. Live entertainment, craft show, chicken barbecue, car show.

July 8 Antiques & Collectibles Market Historic Hanna’s Town, 809 Forbes Trail Rd. in Greensburg, PA www.hannastown.org | 724-532-1935

July 3-9 Wolf’s Corners Fair www.wolfscornersfair.com | 814-229-0056 | Wolf’s Corners Fairgrounds, Lake Lucy Road, Tionesta, PA This community fair and 4th of July celebration is an action-packed week of events of family-oriented entertainment including midway rides, carnival, food, entertainment, exhibits, horse show, antique tractors, agricultural and livestock displays and competitions, demolition derby, tractor pulls, bingo, fireworks and much more. Pay one price includes parking, rides and shows. Call or visit the website for more information.

July 9-13 Nature Explorer Camp for 6-7 year-olds Warm-Blooded, Winged Wonders: Bird and Mammal Adventure www.wpnr.org | 724-537-5284 | Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve, 744 Walzer Way in Latrobe, PA Curiosity will take flight as students learn about song-birds, birds of prey, and other birds native to our state. They will warm-up to learning about mammals that inhabit our region – both day and night dwellers.

Excursions, experiments, games, hikes and more as they explore Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve with staff. $100 per child.

July 4 Latrobe 4th of July Celebration www.latrobe4thofjuly.com | 724-537-8417

July 13 Art on Tap Westmoreland Museum of American Art | 221 N. Main St. Greensburg, PA www.wmuseumaa.org | 724-837-1500

This Holiday Celebration brings a lot of families and friends together, to come together and enjoy the festivities, as well as attracting thousands of out of town guests to see our Community and the City of Latrobe. This is a true Community Event for all to enjoy. It is a great way to greet families and friends that you haven’t seen in years.

Join us for a casual happy hour at The Westmoreland the second Friday of every month! Relax and enjoy music, scavenger hunts, and fun with friends! What a great way to end your work week! Admission is $7 and includes 2 drink tickets (beer or wine). Time : 5:00PM - 7:00PM Cost : $7 (includes admission & 2 drink tickets)

June 21

July 13 Sidewalk Chalk Festival www.lewisburgartscouncil.com | 570-524-5221 | 340 Market St., Lewisburg, PA

Big Wheels Race on Memorial Drive register at 5 p.m.

Race begins at 6 p.m.

June 26 Patriotic Interfaith Program, Latrobe Elementary School, 7 pm July 1 5-Mile Run / 2-Mile Walk, Latrobe Memorial Stadium, 7 pm July 2 Third Annual Doggy 4th of July Pageant Legion Keener Park Bandshell, 2 p.m.

July 2 Baking Contest, Legion Keener Park Small Pavilion, 5 p.m.

July 4 Parade at 10:30 a.m. Parade Theme “Stars and Stripes Forever” July 4 Fireworks, Legion Keener Park, 9:30 pm July 5-8 Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival 252 Twin Lakes Park Rd. in Greensburg, PA | 724-834-7474 www.artsandheritage.com Laurel Highlands Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival Event Page Join us from July 5th to July 8th this year, as 2012 marks the 38th year of the Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival! As a 4th of July celebration, the 44 - Summer 2012

Get your inner artist ready to draw...on the sidewalk! Art work will be judged in two categories and include prizes! If you would like your sidewalk art judged you will need to sign up at 5:30 p.m. in front of Brushstrokes Gallery, Art Supplies, & Framing, 340 Market St., Lewisburg on the day of the festival. Bring some chalk if you have it! Also a balloon artist, music by Eric Sunberg, theatrical face painting and balloon art by “In Come the Clowns” Free ice cream for participants under 13.

July 14-15 Colonial Court Days Historic Hanna’s Town, 809 Forbes Trail Rd. in Greensburg, PA www.hannastown.org | 724-532-1935

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

July 15 Building Bodeez Annual Sprint Triathlon Keystone State Park, 1150 Keystone State Park Rd in Derry | 724-668-2939 The Triathlon will have 3 stages. Stage 1 Lake Swim (500 yards) Stage 2 Rural Bike Ride (16 miles) Stage 3 park Walk/Run (5K). All age groups and fitness levels are welcome to participate. Appropriate age ranges are from 13 years old+. Participants may compete alone or participate as a team (2 or 3 members). 8 am to noon. All proceeds of the event will benefit the Blackburn Center located in Greensburg, PA. The center fights domestic and sexual violence by actively advocating for the rights of all people to live free from violence and oppression in their homes and communities and provides supportive services to survivors of all forms of domestic violence and sexual assault. Contact: Hayley at Building Bodeez, www.buildingbodeez.net, buildingbodeez@gmail.com, 724-739-0105.

July 18 Tiny Wonder Time: Fishing Fun www.wpnar.org | 724-537-5284 Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve 744 Walzer Way in Latrobe, PA 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. Registration Required. $1 per child, per class. 10 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.

July 20 Summer in Ligonier Arts & Crafts Downtown Ligonier, PA | www.ligonierchamber.com | 724-238-4200

July 27 Coleman Station Bluegrass Festival 1144 Coleman Station Rd in Friedens, PA | 814-444-8509 www.blue-grass.org/festival Located high atop the picturesque Allegheny Mountains of Western Pennsylvania, this family oriented celebration of music and tradition is hosted by the Custer family. Whether you are a die hard traditionalist, a little curious about the new and evolving sound of bluegrass or just looking for a great place to spend a weekend, the Coleman Station Bluegrass Festival is definitely worth the trip!

July 28 - August 12 Endless Mountain Music Festival www.endlessmountain.net | 570-787-7800 | 130 Main St., Wellsboro, PA Timeless classical masterpieces blended with contemporary compositions set the stage for the seventh season of the Endless Mountain Music Festival in Wellsboro and surrounding communities.

The festival, under the baton of internationally recognized conductor Maestro Stephen Gunzenhauser, features world-renowned guest artists, festival orchestra and chamber music concerts, solo recitals, performance previews and receptions with the musicians. A community endeavor, the festival blends classical and contemporary music for over two weeks of entertainment and enchantment in the gorgeous Pennsylvania Wilds and Finger Lakes Region. The 2012 season will offer over a dozen concerts and ample opportunities to experience the magic of breathtaking scenery and the small town charm of Tioga County’s communities.

July 20-22 Somerfest Art & Music Festival Dressler Center, 214 S. Harrison Ave. in Somerset, PA www.laurelarts.org | 814-443-2433 July 20 Taste of History Fort Ligonier | 200 S. Market St. in Ligonier, PA | 724-238-9701 www.fortligonier.com Enjoy a casual evening with friends, 5:30-7:30 pm. Living history demonstrations, food and music!

July 21-22 Battles of the French and Indian War Fort Ligonier | 200 S. Market St. in Ligonier, PA | 724-238-9701 www.fortligonier.com Artillery demonstrations (1pm and 3 pm) and battle reenactments (1:30 pm and 3:30 pm).

July 21, 2 to 6 pm Hops, Vines and Wines Festival www.selinsgrove.net | 570-541-1932 | Historic Downtown Selinsgrove, PA The Annual Brew Festival continues a tradition. Superb Micro and Craft Brews, fine regional wineries, true tasting event, entertainment and great food vendors.

July 21-22 Living History Weekend Compass Inn Museum | US 30 Laughlintown, PA | 724-238-4983 www.compassinn.com History comes alive as skilled craftsmen demonstrate a variety of 18th and 19th century skills and crafts. See a blacksmith or bobbin lace maker at work. Help dip candles, or try your hand at weaving. Watch soap making or open hearth cooking. (Crafts vary daily.)

July 26 - August 6 Fayette County Fair 132 Pechin Rd. in Dunbar, PA | www.fayettefair.com | 724-628-3360 July 27 A Night at the Museum Fort Ligonier | 200 S. Market St. in Ligonier, PA | 724-238-9701 www.fortligonier.com Every Story Begins At Home.

Sunday Evening Summer Band Concerts Ligonier, PA. Sundays, May 27 – August 26 at 7 pm Bandstand on the Diamond | www.ligonierchamber.com 724-238-4200 SummerSounds – Greensburg’s Concerts in the Park Greensburg, PA. Friday, June 6 – August 31 at 7 pm.

SummerSounds is a free series of exciting and interesting concerts under the stars in Greensburg’s downtown St. Clair Park. Emphasizing high standards of contemporary musicianship in a family atmosphere, this series has been called “the best outdoor music series in Western PA.” This year’s 14 free concerts will delight music lovers of all ages with music ranging from jazz to rock to bluegrass, with a taste of folk, new age and country. We’re proud of the variety in our programs and try to please the most sophisticated ear. If the music makes you feel like dancing on the lawn, all the better! Dine at one of our fine restaurants or pack a dinner if you wish ... then stretch out on your blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the tunes. Best of all the price is right: FREE! And so is our parking! We want you to have a great evening in our downtown cultural district!

TGIS - Thank Goodness It’s Summer Palace Theater in Greensburg, PA. Thursdays, May 31 – August 30 Westmoreland Cultural Trust www.westmorelandculturaltrust.org Sunday Night Summer Concert Series Downtown Connellsville, PA. Sundays, June 24 – September 2 Fayette County Cultural Trust | www.fayettetrust.org 724-626-0141

Summer 2012 - 45

COMING UP . . .

August 2-5 Annual Antique Tractor Show Stoystown, PA | www.stoystownlions.org | 814-341-9593

Goodnight, John Boy

by Cathi Gerhard

August 3-5 Ameriserv Flood City Music Festival Johnstown, PA | www.floodcitymusic.com August 4-5 Keystone Craft Show & Community Days Keystone State Park, 1150 Keystone State Park Rd in Derry | 724-668-2939 The Keystone State Park Friends Group, a non-profit organization, would like to invite you to participate in Community Days and Craft show at Pavilion # 1. There will be crafts, food, baked goods and entertainment. This show will be held rain or shine! Entertainment includes train rides, firetrucks, Antique cars, American Indian programs (Storytelling), disc golf, fishing derby, disc jockey and more! 10 am to 6 pm. Vendors still needed – contact Pam 724-668-2566 or kpnature@nb.net August 11-12 Brigade of the American Revolution Fort Ligonier | 200 S. Market St. in Ligonier, PA | 724-2389701 www.fortligonier.com 18th Century living history demonstrations, encampment and tactical exercises.

August 18-19 Living History Weekend Compass Inn Museum | US 30 Laughlintown, PA | 724238-4983 www.compassinn.com History comes alive as skilled craftsmen demonstrate a variety of 18th and 19th century skills and crafts. See a blacksmith or bobbin lace maker at work. Help dip candles, or try your hand at weaving. Watch soap making or open hearth cooking. (Crafts vary daily.)

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: Please send complete event information, including a descriptive paragraph and artwork for consideration to: Calendar Editor Laurel Mountain Post PO Box 332 Ligonier, PA 15658 or calendar@laurelmountainpost.com Family-friendly, cultural, and nonprofit events and abbreviated material take precedence when print space is a consideration. We will do our best to also add your complete listing to our indexed online calendar and tag it with appropriate categories.

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46 - Summer 2012

In the two years since I broke my back, I’ve spent a lot of time in bed watching TV and still do. My spine will never quite be the same – teatime painkillers and evening immobility have become a significant part of my daily routine. I wish I could say that I’ve been able to read all the gorgeous books on my shelves, but as much as I love them, they just encourage too much relaxed drowsiness.

Apart from the dozens of magazines and short stories I rip through each week, I’ve evolved into a digital media girl, browsing and streaming content via iPad, iPhone and Roku – when I can’t find anything “good” to watch on my 200+ satellite channels.

When it comes to “uplifting entertainment,” I’ve recently realized just how much my life has been influenced by the 70’s television show The Waltons. I was thrilled every time I stumbled across a broadcast on The Hallmark Channel, but my daily journeys down memory lane heartened when I found afternoon marathons on GMC. I’ve always felt a kindred spirituality with The Waltons, having grown up with a loving family on a farm at the foothills of a mountain range.

Calling it “Gerhard Mountain,” we used to joke about our home, situated on a rolling plateau looking out over Derry and Latrobe with Chestnut Ridge in the background (and Laurel Mountain beyond that in the distance on a clear day). My idyllic, country childhood took place during that decade – just like the production years of the show.

(Adolescence waited for the greedy and preppy 80’s influence of Alex P. Keaton). But unlike the obvious character impacts of the Depression, during which The Waltons took place, I was quite unaware of what would later be recognized “a recession.” The death of the local steel industry, gas short-ages, the final years of Vietnam, the Equal Rights Amend-ment, Watergate . . . none of these global reckonings ever seemed to penetrate my safe, highland world where farming defined our lifestyle.

My parents only had two daughters, but there were always boys around playing or working – so it sort of felt like we had lots of brothers. At the end of a long day’s work on the farm, we all gathered for supper as a family, sitting around that iconic, long threshing table with benches on either side. Living on a farm, food was plentiful: we raised cattle for beef, kept chickens for eggs, and cultivated acres LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

of vegetables and grain. I knew hard work and equality from birth, being assigned barn chores and baling hay alongside the boys. I never experienced want, as farm life dictated a constant and creative re-purposing of available resources – and when that didn’t work, my mum and dad always managed to find another way through diligence and patience. Faith was the chorus of my parents’ love song.

They gave me the encouragement and freedom to be a writer and a tomboy – to live a life headed in the direction of my choice, without judgment and filled with support.

Running around barefoot, fishing in our pond, and writing in my notebook on warm summer nights, I really did (unknowingly) emulate John Boy Walton. In recent years, many friends have retrospectively informed me that – even as a little girl – I always seemed confident with who I was, who I wanted to be, and where I was going. I was fascinated by research and composition – and worked to become a writer, just like John Boy. But one day in October 2002, while living a hectic, modern existence in North Carolina, I lost my words. I’ve written before about my traumatic brain injury, but I never really explained how it led to the creation of the Laurel Mountain Post. My informal rehabilitation began by learning to speak more clearly – without a confused stutter or intermittent aphasic nonsense; then I moved on to writing. And by that I mean holding a pen or pencil with the same precision I used to enjoy as an amateur artist (those of you familiar with my calli-graphic handwriting know what I mean). I was shaky and wrote incorrect words for several months – a condition that continues to creep up now and then and probably always will.

In trying to make sense of my rattled brain and keep moving forward with recovery, my neurologist suggested that I find a self-guided project to keep in practice. The phrase “use it or lose it,” apparently applies to the brain, too. The “assignment” had to be something non-threatening; I was still too disabled to return to work, as I failed with organization and communication much more often that I succeeded.

Emotionally, I had been retreating to safe havens already. The functioning parts of my brain seemed to be focused on the past much more than usual – Every Story Begins At Home.

old friends, old places, and good old home town.” I now write them at my days. Unable to think of anything else, grandfather’s antique desk, next to a I even gave the emergency room my window, in my childhood home on the junior highfriend’s phone number family farm (which is on the precipice when filling out the admissions papers. of revitalization and sure to be the The blow to the head was apparently subject of many forthcoming LMP like some sort of jolting, mid-life crisis articles). Wearing glasses, I shuffle time machine. between notebooks and a computer to So I decided to work on a notebook publish my sentimental, quarterly manuabout all the things my brain suddenly script much like John Boy Walton’s Blue found so important. I went back to the Ridge Chronicle, which was printed on beginning and re-connected with many an old, manual press in a shed. old friends, I did research on those favorite places, and wrote about their importance to me. I discovered that I wasn’t the only one longing for their “displaced western Pennsylvania childhood.” There seems to be much more to our regional infatuation than lost innocence. It flows from the same wellspring that makes the Pittsburgh Steelers the most popular NFL franchise, with a fan club in every major city and outselling all others in licensed merchandise. It’s also why Pittsburgh Dad has recently become a national YouTube sensation.

The detailed explanation is an ongoing riddle I’m working to solve by publishing the Laurel Mountain Post, a refined version of my rehab notebooks. Someone (obviously not from western PA), once asked me how I could possibly find enough things to My dad, Shelly Gerhard, with my write about. My answer was: doppleganger daughter, Elizabeth Srsic, and her first fish caught in the pond “perspective,” something first on Fairview Farm, circa 1994. rendered for me by my high school psychology teacher. That simple concept continues to hover over me like a flashing l i g h t Not everyone experiences an bulb, though at times it grows dim or opportunistic reset button (or two) like hides behind a dark cloud. I must me. It took a long time to work through the grief over all I had lost and learn to resolve to see the good in things, to live with what I still had, transforming appreciate their unique, positive my nostalgic inventory into worthy and qualities rather than stall out on the wonderful things. It’s a daily struggle mundane and negative. Something to keep that task simple – life has a way about the culture and heritage of of constantly changing, seemingly western Pennsylvania seems to inspire becoming more complicated and its natives the same way, with a shining forward-thinking all the time. Somelight of pride. We’re a hard-working times we have to channel The Waltons, community, the children of assorted by reminding ourselves to stop and take resourceful immigrants who settled the that stock, accounting not so much for New World and chose this reminiscent the promise of a new tomorrow, but for place. Our stories begin here at home, the quiet gratitude and safety of now: a because that’s where our hearts are and reflection on our achievements so far always will be. and respect for the peaceful and wellI once called the Laurel Mountain deserved rest at the end of each day.

Post a “collection of love letters to my Summer 2012 - 47

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48 - Summer 2012

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

East Washington Police Officer John David Dryer, 46, was killed in the line of duty on December 19th, 2011. Officer Dryer was shot and killed as he and Officer Robert V. Caldwell III were conducting a traffic stop on Interstate 70 in East Washington, Pennsylvania shortly after 11:00 pm. The armed suspect was later shot and killed after engaging police officers outside of his residence at 9:30 am the following morning.

Officer Dryer graduated from the Indiana University Municipal Police Academy and worked as a police officer for the East Washington Police Department since August, 2010. He also served several other Washington County communities as a police officer during his law enforcement career, as well as serving as a Deputy Warden for the Pennsylvania Game Commission since 1996. Officer Dryer also served his community as a volunteer fireman for 14 years and an EMT for 6 years. He was certified in police canine training and tracking for law enforcement.

Prior to becoming a police officer, Officer Dryer received his veterinary science degree from Ohio State University and opened the Chestnut Veterinary Clinic in Washington, Pennsylvania. He was both a dedicated veterinarian and police officer who loved serving his community in many capacities.

Members of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Allegheny County Bureau of Corrections are coordinating this year’s Fallen Heroes Golf Tournament to raise proceeds to help financially support Officer Dryer’s surviving teenage son, Benjamin, who suffers from autism.

This year’s tournament will be held at Olde Stonewall Golf Club on Saturday, July 28th, 2012 (9:00 AM – Shotgun Start – 4-Man Scramble). Olde Stonewall is rated Pennsylvania’s #1 public golf course by Golf Digest and Golfweek magazines. The entry fee for the tournament is $200 per golfer which includes 18 holes of golf, on-course lunch & beverages, dinner, tournament golf shirt and golf towel, tournament divot tool, and hole-prizes, including a $1000 cash prize for Closest to the Pin on a Par 3. Golf carts are equipped with GPS features and an on-board electronic scoreboard. Player registration begins at 7:00 AM at the Olde Stonewall Clubhouse facility.

Tournament Contacts

Lieutenant K evin Kraus Kevin Pittsburgh Bureau of Police (412) 589-0573 kevinkraus@comcast.net

We are only accepting the first 38 paid foursomes.

Make checks payable to: Fallen Heroes GolfPlease send all payments to: Kevin Kraus P.O. Box 99761 Pittsburgh, PA 15233

www.fallenheroesgolf.com

Officer Daniel R eager R.. Y Yeager Allegheny County Bureau of Corrections (412) 418-4296

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