Pennsylvania Bridges January 2018 by Pennsylvania Bridges

Pennsylvania

BRIDGES

Jan u ar y 2018 Edition

FREE

Connecting Our Communities

Opportunity Knocks?!?

Pennsylvania

BRIDGES

Opportunity Knocks?!?

Pennsylvania Bridges is published online at

pabridges.com and in print form

Questions? We’ve got answers!

Carla E. Anderton, Editor-in-Chief Fred Terling, Managing Editor Hayley Lynn Martin, Associate Editor Chuck Brutz, Staff Writer Cass Currie, Staff Writer Keren Lee Dreyer, Staff Writer Tasha Oskey, Columnist Reanna Roberts, Columnist Eric J. Worton, Columnist Contributors: Jennifer Benford, Noah Churchel, Brianne Bayer Mitchell, Dr. Michele Pagen, Lauren Rearick, Bruce Wald, Ashley Wise & Dave Zuchowski

Have a story idea? Do you like to write? Want to share an original photo? Get in touch with us at (724) 769-0123 e-mail: carla@pabridges.com We’re also on Facebook facebook.com/ pennsylvaniabridges

NOTABLE & QUOTABLE

I don't believe in luck, or in waiting for fortune to shine upon you, although I'm a sucker for half the take. I believe in forging your own destiny. I want to be a person who makes things happen as opposed to waiting for things to happen to me. This philosophy has taken me to some interesting places, some more scenic than others, but one thing I've learned about myself in the process is that patience isn't one of my strengths. I'm not a big fan of waiting, whether it's waiting in line or waiting for the right circumstances. This probably explains why I avoid at all costs Black Friday sales, Disney World, and the Department of Motor Vehicles. All kidding aside, nothing makes me more uncomfortable than standing in place, failing to move forward at a brisk pace. We lose so much precious time waiting. Too often I've seen an opportunity squandered because someone wasn't willing to act in a timely fashion. I love the quote from actor Kyle Chandler in this issue's “Notable and Quotable” but I don't know that I agree with it entirely. Chandler asserts that opportunity only presents itself after you've knocked down the door, and

that's not been my experience. Opportunity does indeed knock, it just doesn't wait. You have to be alert for the sound of it knocking. You have to tune out all of life's noise so you can hear it. You have to be willing not just to answer the door but to walk through it and face whatever's on the other side. Sometimes you confront joy, while at other times fear, but you can't ignore it or allow it to intimidate you. What matters most is that you recognize and are receptive to opportunity when you encounter it. In this edition there are numerous stories about people who've answered the call of opportunity when it beckoned. Faced with a chance to better themselves or their communities, they've chosen to seize the day. From entrepreneurs to philanthropists to those who balance both commerce and charity, there's no shortage of people living and working in our region who've heeded opportunity's call. May you be inspired by their example! Until next month, Carla E. Anderton

Where can I find more? How can I advertise my business?

“Opportunity does not knock, it presents itself when you beat down the door.”

Kyle Chandler American Actor 2

Pennsylvania Bridges is distributed free to schools, libraries, colleges and universities, community centers, organizations and better businesses throughout Washington, Fayette, Greene, Westmoreland & Allegheny counties in southwestern Pennsylvania. We’re also online at pabridges.com, where we continuously update our site with the latest in arts, entertainment,

education and lifestyle news, which we share via our social media networks. If you or your organization would like to obtain copies of Pennsylvania Bridges, email carla@pabridges.com with your address to be added to our distribution list. For info on advertising, call 724-7690123 or email carla@pabridges.com for a rate sheet and more details.

Pennsylvania Bridges is a free publication bridging communities in Fayette, Greene, Washington, Westmoreland, and Allegheny counties. We feature profiles and articles about individuals and groups contributing to the advancement of the arts, education, healthcare, wellness, technology and other avenues of interest to our readers. Pennsylvania Bridges is printed once a month and regularly updated online. Each edition of the publication includes fresh and original stories about area personalities and events of note as well as event listings. We welcome your story ideas and event listings. We adhere to the philosophy that media should be both inspirational and thought provoking. We subscribe to the belief that media should be easy to access and share. We routinely use social media to distribute news and updates and invite our readers to share us with their networks. Our site’s interface is designed with this aim in mind. We welcome your input. Have questions, comments or angry exhortations? Call us at 724-769-0123. Email us. We want to hear your voice. Get in touch.

***Important Notice*** All material contained in this issue is the property of Pennsylvania Bridges and may not be reprinted, reproduced or redistributed without our express written permission.

PENNSYLVANIA BRIDGES - We believe media should uplift and inspire. - pabridges.com

In this issue of Pennsylvania Bridges...

THE ARTS

IN OUR

JANUARY 2018 EDITION

AREA

Craft & Vendor Show...p. 3 WMAA exhibit...p. 16 Applications being accepted for Three Rivers Arts Fest...p. 27

COMMUNITY & LOCAL BIZ EDUCATION & TECHNOLOGY Tips from TechBoxz: Amazon wins, for now...p. 12 Waynesburg professors publish poem, lead workshops...p. 12 WCCC graduates new police cadets...p. 16

BOOKS & LITERATURE Michael Neiberg returns to PT Library to conclude series...p. 10 Monessen Author Series...p. 17 Brownsville Library...p. 29 Bentleyville Library...p. 28 California Library...p. 28 Chartiers-Houston Library..p. 28 Citizens Library Events...p. 28 Donora Library Events...p. 29 Frank Sarris Library...p. 30 Fredericktown Library...p. 28 Monessen Library...p. 29 Charleroi Library...p. 29 Peters Township Library...p. 29 Rostraver Library...p. 29

Third Thursday: Photography at Carnegie Museum of Art...p. 27

STAGE & SCREEN One Man Dark Knight...p. 5 The Entertainment Chuckwagon: Stranger Things...p. 10 Royal Princess Engagements bring storybooks to life...p. 11 On stage at State Theatre...p. 17 PBT performances...p 18 On stage at Little Lake...p. 21 On stage at the Palace Theatre in Greensburg....p. 26 Cal U Theatre season...p. 30

Icy river plunge Frosty Frolic set for February...p. 5 CASA Sign-ups...p. 6 Ridge Runner Distillery opens in Chalk Hill...p. 7-8 Free Produce to People ...p. 8 Donora Historical Society News...p. 8 Annual Chili Cookout...p. 14 Century Inn in Scenery Hill rises from ashes...p. 19 Greater Monessen Historical Society News...p. 22 New Uniontown Eatery...p. 23 This Month in History...p. 24

EDITOR’S CHOICE “PIC”

OF THE ISSUE

FAITH & SPIRITUALITY Pastor Dawn Hargraves: One Dress at a Time to help end human trafficking...p. 26

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE Practice safe selfies...p. 9 Supporting a child through grief and bereavement...p. 19 Mental Health Spotlight with Fred Terling...p. 21 About Face with Tasha...p. 25 On the Road w/ Bob Willis...p. 31

SPECIAL EVENTS Center in the Woods January events & daily offerings...p. 8 & 9 Cal U Theatre season...p. 30

Disney Princesses from Royal Princess Engagements bring smiles to children’s faces by bringing some of their favorite storybook characters to life. Learn more about this unique company on page 11 of this edition. PHOTO

COURTESY OF

LINDA MONACK RONTO.

Submit your photos for consideration for Editor’s Choice “Pic” of the Issue to carla@pabridges.com. Original photography only accepted for consideration.

PENNSYLVANIA BRIDGES - Arts, Entertainment, Education & Lifestyle - pabridges.com

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Order Online: nudgeshoppe.com Do you have a story idea? Are you having a special event? Do you like to write? We want to hear from you! Get in touch! Send an email to carla@pabridges.com or call our office at 724-769-0123.

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CRAFT & VENDOR SHOW AT CENTER ON THE HILL

Now Accepting New Properties. Call Us. CALIFORNIA AREA OFFICE Patsy J. Alfano Broker & Manager 236 California Road

A Craft & Vendor Show will be held at Center on the Hill, 100 Summit Road, Belle Vernon, on Saturday, March 3, 2018, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Featuring a Chinese Auction & Baked Good Sale. Lunch will be available for purchase. ADMISSION IS FREE! Vendor tables are $20 and can be reserved by calling Pat at 724-929-6366.

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Brownsville, PA 15417 724-330-5800 - Office www.northwood.com

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PENNSYLVANIA BRIDGES - pabridges.com

For

Fifth annual icy plunge into Mon River - “Frosty Frolic” - set for February

Your Health

Story by Keren Lee Dreyer Under normal circumstances, most people would not literally “take a long walk off a short pier.” However, one Coal Center area winter-time event invites this very activity - and for good causes. The 5th Annual Frosty Frolic happens on February 3, 2018 at the Coal Center Wharf, just across from Lagerheads. Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet will deter the anticipated 60 - 75 costumed jumpers from meeting their pledges by jumping into the Mon River at 1:30 p.m. that afternoon. According to Walter MacFann, TriCounty Realty Associates, LP agent, Frosty Frolic Committee Chairman, and president of California Area School District Foundation, Frosty Frolic's aim is two-fold: 1 - To raise awareness that the school district Foundation exits, and; 2 - To raise money for scholarships for graduating seniors, and provide money for mini grants for teachers at the middle school and high school. “Mini grants are an opportunity (provide money) for teachers to do things above and beyond in classrooms,” MacFann said, adding that they will be awarded at this year's Frosty Frolic, with the balance of funds raised providing money for scholarships. Additional funds for grants and scholarships are provided “through endowments and individual contributions. Some are annual and some are a onetime shot,” MacFann said. Finding jumpers, who raise money through their pledges, and raising event awareness, is done through social media, the Foundation's web site (calsdfoundation.org/site/), California University promotions, mailings, and committee members knocking on neighborhood doors. The result is fruitful, with 60 - 75 jumpers anticipated for this year's event. Additionally, MacFann said. “Armstrong Cable will be covering the event for this year and running promos. They also have a t.v. show called The Challenge, and they have new members on the team this year and are bringing the new members down to jump again.” MacFann also plans to recruit “real

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estate agents, customers, and friends I can convince to do it” to make the jump. MacFann's group from Tri-County Realty - also a sponsor - will take the first plunge. Frosty Frolic's festive atmosphere is enhanced by a D.J. who will provide coozy and t-shirt giveaways, and a costume judging contest. “There's a committee who will be judging the costumes and the antics that go with it. Sometimes the performance is better than the costumes,” MacFann recounted. The frosty part of this frolic may seem intimidating, but according to MacFann,

“Truly the coldest part is waiting; you finally changed into your costume, and once you're standing in line waiting to jump, the adrenalin takes over and the body warms up. You jump into the water and the cold obviously hits you, it's exhilarating. You think you're moving fast but it's actually slower than your mind wants it to be. You're in complete control and climb up the ladder and the crowd is cheering and you're warm again. It's a lot of fun, and then the warmth of the changing tent makes it all the better.” Outdoing swim time of all comers to Frosty Frolic are members of the Fayette County EMA River Rescue Team (fcema.org). “They're literally in the water an hour and a half...it's a training exercise for them,” MacFann stated. “Those guys are always a lot of fun, and they have a lot of fun with the participants.” The California Volunteer Fire Department and Brownsville Ambulance Services, Inc. round out safety support for the event. According to MacFann, the event raises $5 - 6,000/net for scholarships and grants. Join the fun and take the plunge for good causes by finding Frosty Frolic 2018 registration forms at facebook.com/FrostyFrolic. Follow them on twitter @FrostyFrolic and on Instagram @Frosty_Frolic

PENNSYLVANIA BRIDGES - Arts, Entertainment, Education & Lifestyle - pabridges.com

Discover for yourself the Nature’s Truth difference in each aromatherapy product, and start benefitting from essential oils, one of nature’s greatest gifts, today. We now proudly carry Nature’s Truth aromatherapy products. Stop in and browse our selection of essential oils including: Balance, Breathe Easy, Calming, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Energy, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Good Nite, Happiness, Lavendar, Lemon, Mental Clarity, Patchouli, Peace, Peppermint, Purify, Tea Tree, 4 Thrive, and Sweet Almond Base. Nature’s Truth aromatherapy products are Paraben Free, Gluten Free, and 100% Plant Based. Experience the honest goodness of aromatherapy with Nature’s Truth, available at Redstone Pharmacy, your hometown pharmacy. For more info about essential oils, ask your pharmacy.

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California Area Soccer Association Sign-Ups California Area Soccer Association (CASA) will be holding sign-up sessions in January 2018 for youth soccer for the spring season. The spring season will begin in mid to late March and end in early June. Games will be played on Saturdays (in-house) and Sundays (travel) starting in April. Players must be born in 2013 (or before) to be eligible to play in the Spring 2018 season. Players with birthdates in years 2008-2013 will play on an in-house team. Players born in 2007 or earlier will play on a travel team. Registration is $50 per player for in-house and $80 per player for travel. There is a $10 discount for any sibling after the first player registered. Uniform kits are $40 for in-house or $50 for travel play. We do have an exchange program (in its early stages) for used inhouse uniforms at reduced prices and these will be available at the sign-up sessions. The sign-up sessions will take place as follows: Saturday, January 6, 4:00-6:00 p.m. at

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces the return of Charles Ross in the latest installment of his solo film parodies. Ross will perform One Man Dark Knight: A Batman Parody at the Byham Theater, 101 6th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, on Saturday, January 13, at 7:30 p.m. This performance is a part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series. From the madmen behind One Man Star Wars and One Man Lord of the Rings comes an irreverent parody and homage to the Dark Knight Trilogy. Two-faced super-nerd, Charles Ross, lovingly tears Christopher Nolan's masterpiece a new one in his new One Man Dark Knight: A Batman Parody. No costumes, no sets, no Batmobiles, Ross takes you on a one-hour comedic joyride, from Batman's origins to his epic battles against Gotham's super-villains. Like the first two trilogy productions, One Man Dark Knight: A Batman

Parody is just Ross and his wit. The unexpected successes of his trilogies has taken Ross worldwide, including performances off-Broadway and the Sydney Opera House. Tickets (starting at $25) are available at the following official Pittsburgh Cultural Trust ticket sources: online at TrustArts.org, by calling Guest Services at 412-456-6666, or in person at Theater Square Box Office, 655 Penn Avenue. For groups of 10+ call 412-471-6930, online at TrustArts.org/GroupSales or in person at Theater Square Box Office. VIP Meet & Greet Tickets ($50) include one seat in a premium location and a post-show Meet & Greet.

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Spuds (Wood St. in California) Tuesday, January 9, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Dairy Queen (Third St. in California) Please note that CASA is only holding two sessions for spring registration! Please contact Brett Vanderlaan (CASA Secretary/Registrar) at casasec16@aol.com with questions or to make other arrangements to register if you cannot make one of the scheduled sessions.

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THERE IS HOPE Addiction Recovery Ministry offers a Christ centered 12 Step Program for people struggling with addiction and for those in recovery. Meetings will be held every Monday 6:30-8:30 at Malden Christian Fellowship at 343 Old National Pike in Brownsville. Fliers are available for distribution. FMI: 724-434-4597 or 734-785-3042

PENNSYLVANIA BRIDGES - We believe media should uplift and inspire. - pabridges.com

Son of prominent winemakers opens Ridge Runner Distillery in Chalk Hill Story by Keren Lee Dreyer Sometime in the mid 1980s, John and Sharon Klay bought a farm in Chalk Hill, Pennsylvania along the mountain ridge of Route 40. John, a cardiac surgeon, imagined the bucolic location was suitable for raising cattle, and perhaps sheep. Sharon, however, had other ideas. Figuring she could put John's green thumb to good use, the Klays ordered and planted 1,000 grape vines, a number that grew into 14,000, eventually leading the Klays to found a full-fledged winery at 412 Fayette Springs Road in Chalk Hill, Pennsylvania. A serious business calls for a recognizable name, and so the Christian W. Klay Winery was born. Its namesake, the son of John and Sharon, jocosely stated that his parents picked that winery name “for reasons I can't fathom - but that's how it happened.” Christian Klay, who is wellinformed about the process of fermenting spirits, is the owner and founder of Ridge Runner Distillery at 417 Fayette Springs Road, right within eye-sight of his parents' winery. Klay spent time working at the winery out of college while job searching during 2009's recession. While gaining experience with “the production side of things,” including bottling, branding, and shipping, Klay eventually started thinking “I appreciate wine, but I really love whiskey. So if my parents can make wine, I can make whiskey.” Following a similar pattern to his parents, who had never grown grapes or owned a winery, but succeeded through work, experimentation, and deer feeding on the grapes (later stopped by a 14' fence), Klay began the work of becoming a bona-fide distiller. “I started looking on line,

Close to home... ...By your side

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Lisa J. Buday doing research, going to conferences. I got really serious about it in 2013 and did wheat classes” Klay said, adding in a way that makes the process seem deceptively simple “I wrote a business plan, got funding, built a building, and opened in July of 2014.” Another process seemingly simple to Klay was getting through “a solid nine months to one year of paperwork” before getting the entire process underway, though some help from a recently changed Pennsylvania law smoothed the process. According to Klay, “about 6 - 7 years ago...there were only about seven distilleries in Pennsylvania since Prohibition. Since they changed the that law, it went from 10 in 2015 to about 30 now, either open or under construction.” For those fond of Pennsylvania whiskey, rye, and/or moonshine, this is good news, as is a new law rolled into the recent national overhaul of the country's tax system which stands to reduce the onerous tax of $13.50 per proof gallon* down to around $2.70. Whether a micro distillery boom is the inevitable outcome of the tax reduction is yet to be seen, the lure of lower prices for

spirits could fuel such a process. Moonshiners, also known as “ridge runners” during their harrowing time of illegal spirits distribution, typically used locally grown corn and other ingredients for their creations. Keeping with that spirit (pun intended), Klay sources about 90% of his supplies from Pennsylvania, including wheat, rye, and barley. While Weatherbury Farms in Washington, PA, and Frankfurt Farms near Philadelphia are Ridge Runner's current suppliers of grain and corn, this past year Klay “had a farmer com in and plant about 30 acres of corn at our location. So next year, a lot of our stuff will be made with corn grown on our property.” As for customer taste preferences, Klay said “I found two groups of people; those who like the sweet flavored stuff, and those who like the more traditional.” For those seeking traditional spirits, Klay recommends the vodka, which “is our flagship product right now,” while for those “more into the moonshines and the flavored stuff, I'd probably say the root beer is the thing you want to try first. The root beer is definitely something differContinued on next page....

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January ‘18 News from the Donora Historical Society and Smog Museum

Free Produce to People Food Distribution - Fayette County Thursday, January 11 at 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. - Fayette County Fair Fairgrounds, 132 Pechin Rd, Connellsville - The program provides supplemental food items to families each month.Typically families receive about 60 pounds of food each month. Residents of Fayette County who receive the food are asked to bring a large box, wheeled cart or laundry basket to put their food in. In an effort to speed up the process at the distribution center, we have implemented what is known as a Passcard. In order to receive the Passcard you will need to bring with you a copy of a utility bill with your name and address on the bill.You will also need a photo ID. Registration for the distribution begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 11:30. All food is distributed based on a first come first serve basis. To ensure you receive food please arrive no later than 10 a.m.You are able to attend if you live in another county other than Fayette. FMI: freshfirechurch.net

We are a Bible Believing Church!

California Baptist Church Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:45

Pastor Todd Rutherford 435 2nd Street, California

724-938-8555 Worship with Us this Sunday!

January marked the start of our annual membership and fund drive that helps preserve that collection. If you were a Historical Society member in 2017, we thank you for your support. If you haven't been a recent member, we are reaching out to you to see if you might be interested in supporting some of the new and exciting things that we have planned at the Smog Museum in 2018. Consult our website and then click on the “About Us” page to read about our past accomplishments -- all completed by a volunteer staff, and information about how to join the Society ($15/person or $25/family), to simply make a donation or become a volunteer. Request a formal membership / donation form by sending us an email or call us and leave a voice message. Or you can simply make a check out to the “Donora Historical Society” and mail it to: Donora Historical Society, P.O. Box 522, Donora, PA 15033. As we closed out 2017, the centennial year of the building of our beloved National Historic District - Cement City, we would like to share the recently posted WQED - Pittsburgh 360 video. In April, we worked with WQED producer Dave Crawley (and KDKA storyteller) and photographer/editor Dave Forstate. The result was a video mini-documen-

tary featuring Donora, the Smog Museum, Cement City and our Home and Walking Tours. In November 2017, author Liam Baranauskas from eastern Pennsylvania stopped by the Smog Museum to do some research for a future book. His two-day stay enabled him to do get a tour of Donora, sit in on a visit with Carnegie Mellon University Post History students, and to also attend a Cement City Home and Walking Tour. A more immediate accomplishment for both him and us was an article he wrote for Atlas Obscura titled, “The Historically Hazy Story of Donora's Deadly Smog.” Also in November 2017, we worked with Point Park University Student Chloe Jakiela and Multimedia Journalist Rebecca Devereaux on their entry in the 2017 Multimedia Workshop that was sponsored by Point Park University's Environmental Journalism Program. They had 24 hours to interview their subjects and record video to complete their project, which was about the 1948 Smog. Our second annual Eldora Park Walking Tour is scheduled for Saturday, March 24 and/or March 31 at noon. The tour will start at the Smog Museum in Donora with a photo and newspaper

article presentation on Eldora Park. We will then drive the three miles to conduct the walking tour portion in the Eldora section of Carroll Township on the historic Wickerham farm. The cost is $10 per person and you should allow two hours for the presentation and walking tour. Contact the Historical Society to RSVP as space is limited. You will be contacted to confirm the date(s) of the tour(s). Our spring Cement City Home and Walking Tour and your chance to see Thomas Edison's solution for worker housing created 101 years ago in 1917 is scheduled for Sunday, April 22 at 1 p.m. If Sunday sells out, Saturday, April 21will be the overflow date. The cost of the tour is $13/person and space is limited. Call or email to get your name added to a pre-RSVP signup list to be contacted when the tour date gets closer. If you have questions about the subjects mentioned above, the historical society, museum, presentations or volunteering, feel free to stop by on Saturdays or by special appointment (with at least a week's notice), email DonoraHistoricalSociety@gmail.com, call 724-823-0364 and leave a message, visit DonoraHistoricalSociety.org, or follow us and Like Us on Facebook.

Ridge Runner Distillery, continued from page 7 ent. It's carbonated, it's got some fizz,” and carbonated moonshine is an original spirit, found only at Ridge Runner Distillery. With similar family businesses across the street from each other, Klay said that while they're different on paper, they're really just one family business. Ridge Runner Distillery has its own tasting room, while the winery hosts many events through the year, including a chili cook-off, murder mystery dinners, weddings, private parties, and Klay's own Lavender Festival. As Klay explains, “We actually got a grant from the government to grow lavender, and we have about an acre of lavender and use it to make wines. We have a lavender sparkle grape wine that has won awards. I'm actu-

ally going to use the lavender to do a lavender gin in the spring. The government will help us plant it if we use it in our products. They've all turned out to be really popular. The last Sunday in June is our lavender festival and when it blooms, it looks really good.” Ridge Runner Distillery has locations in Seven Springs and in Pittsburgh, with future plans for locations in Greensburg and Philadelphia. Within the state, the distillery can ship through its online ordering process, and is working on shipping out of state, Klay said, adding “My big push is to get more outlets around the state for people to get our stuff, then selling it online.” With favorable tax rates benefitting craft distillers, along with its original

spirits, Ridge Runner Distillery is poised to offer connoisseurs of fine spirits with quality products for the foreseeable future. Those looking for something suitable for a fine dining table need only head across the street to Christian W Klay Winery to find their favorite libation. Either way, it's a family affair. For the available selection of fine spirits and fine wines, visit Ridge Runner Distillery at ridgerunnerdistillery.com, & Christian W. Klay winery at cwklaywinery.com. They’re on Facebook, too. *The U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Trade Bureau defines a proof gallon as “one liquid gallon of spirits that is 50% alcohol at 60 degrees F. Distilled Spirits.”

PENNSYLVANIA BRIDGES - We believe media should uplift and inspire. - pabridges.com

Center in the Woods January 2018 Activities The Center in the Woods is a nonprofit, senior facility with the goal of hosting fun activities and community events for adults ages 60+. Lunch is served at 12 noon; please call one day in advance to order. NEW! Weight Watchers at the Woods. Weekly meetings starting in 2018. Mininum of 15 participants needed. If interested, call Maria at 724-938-3554, ext. 103. Cost and payment options will be mailed upon request. Daily activities include: Mondays: Pianlessons, Watercolor, Choir & Cards; Tuesdays: Lab services, Billiards lessons, Chair dancing, Healthy Steps, Bingo, Dart ball & Cards; Wednesdays: Bible study, Bean bag toss, Oil painting, Basket guild & Beauty shop; Thursdays: Lab services, Chair dancing, Healthy Steps, Jam Session & Bingo; Fridays: Beauty shop, Wii Bowling & Euchre Visit the beauty shop on Wednesdays, & Fridays by appointment. Bethany offers massage therapy by appointment. Call 724-678-3308. Jam sessions every Thursday at 1 p.m. feature local talented musicians. Piano lessons are offered on Mondays. Call Judy at 724-785-6959 tschedule. Birthday celebration the last Tuesday of the month at 12 noon. Bridge on Monday and Thursday, 500 Bid on Wednesday and Euchre on Friday. Games start at 1:15 p.m. Mon Valley Hospital Lab Services Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-10 p.m. Koffee Klatch presented by Edward Jones on the first Friday of the month at 10 a.m. The Adult Day Center is in need of

volunteers. If you are interested in giving some of your time to assist our participants with activities or just being a friend, please contact Mary Beth at 724938-3554, Ext. 123. Volunteers are needed to serve as drivers or runners for the daily Home Delivered Meals program throughout the California, Daisytown, Brownsville and West Brownsville areas. Volunteers report tthe Center in the Woods by 10:30 am. on assigned days and distribute meals to registered participants. Reimbursement for gas mileage is available. Volunteers are also needed in the kitchen. We also need volunteers to help with various fundraising activities and administration work. FMI, please contact Maria at 724-938-3554, Ext. 103. The Center’s hall is available for rental. Call for details. FMI on programs and other activities, call 724-938-3554 Ext. 103. CITW is located at 130 Woodland Court, Brownsville. FMI: centerinthewoods.org

SAVE YOUR LIFE: PRACTICE SAFE SELFIES The selfie:That simple act of holding up your phone and snapping a photo of yourself. (Please note: Having someone take a photo of you by yourself is not, by definition, a selfie.) What once seemed reserved for teens obsessed with documenting every aspect of their lives and celebrity red carpet events now seems to pervade all corners of our lives. Even politicians have mastered the art of the selfie. The practice seemed to hit its peak in 2013 when Oxford Dictionary declared “selfie” its word of the year.Yet, its ubiquity shows no sign of slowing. And while selfies can be an easy way to capture a moment, they can be dangerous. There are some statistics around selfie fatalities. But there is far less data about injuries resulting from self-

Armstong offers high definition Netflix viewing Armstrong announced today the availability of Netflix 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) programming on EXP. Integrated through the EXP platform, Armstrong customers can seamlessly browse and access Netflix's entire 4K UHD library, featuring over 1,200 hours of original films, documentaries, specials and series in 4K UHD picture quality, including popular Original Series: The Crown, Narcos, Orange Is The New Black, Ozark, and Stranger Things. “We're pleased to have Netflix 4K UHD programming,” said Jeffrey A.

Ross, Armstrong President. “We remain focused on providing our customers high-quality entertainment experiences.” To enjoy Netflix in 4K UHD, Armstrong customers will need Zoom Internet, a compatible EXP set-top box (the Arris MG2), a 4K compatible TV, and a Netflix Premium subscription. For more information about viewing Netflix on EXP in 4K Ultra High Definition, check Armstrong's blog at FollowTheWire.com or like us on Facebook, Facebook.com/ArmstrongOneWire.

ies, likely because there is no reporting mechanism for such things. …And let’s face it, who wants to admit to spraining an ankle taking a photo of themselves? At last count, there were 13 landmarks around the globe that have actually banned selfies in some form or fashion. And consider this: A 2015 survey by Erie Insurance found that 4 percent of drivers admit to taking selfies while they’re driving, while another 23 percent have seen others do it. With more than 420,000 people injured in car accidents involving distracted driving each year, it’s time to get serious about keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. This information provided courtesy of Mariscotti Insurance Agency, 324 Third Street, California. Have a question? Need coverage? Call us!

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The Entertainment Chuckwagon: Netflix does nostalgia, 1980s style Story by Chuck Brutz, Retro Wiz Welcome to Hawkins, Indiana, circa the 1980s. If you haven't seen Stranger Things yet but are saying, “Everybody I know keeps talking about that show,” then crack open a can of Pepsi-Free, and learn more. Premiering in 2016 on Netflix, Stranger Things' first season is set in 1983 in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana. It's the story of four 12-year-old friends, one of whom - Will Byers (Noah Schnapp) - mysteriously disappears after a night of playing Dungeons and Dragons with his pals Mike, Dustin, and Lucas. For those who've yet to see Stranger Things, I'll try and keep this review as spoiler free as possible while still giving some information about basic plot points and important characters on the show. Will's whereabouts become the main focus of the show as his family and friends began to search for him. The search team is led by Will's single mom (portrayed by 1980s and 90s iconic film actress Winona Ryder, who also starred in Heathers, Beetlejuice, and Edward Scissorhands, just to name a few), Hawkins town sheriff Jim Hopper (David Harbour), and Will's older brother Jonathan (Charlie Heaton). Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), and Lucas (Caleb McLaughin) also begin a search and meet up with Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), a quiet 12-year-old girl with

psychokinetic abilities who has just escaped from Hawkins Lab, and may hold the key to finding Will. Created by Matt and Ross Duffer, Stranger Things is an interesting investigative drama infused with humor, 80s pop culture, and elements of certain movies from that era, For example, with the character of Eleven, you get nods to Steven Spielberg's E.T., John Carpenter's Starman, and Stephen King's IT, Carrie, Firestarter, and Stand By Me. With Will's storyline, there's a nod to Spielberg's Poltergeist, and the Hopper character is a semi nod to Roy Scheider's police chief in Jaws. In both Jaws and Stranger Things, you've got big city cops moving to and adjusting to life in a small town - where usually nothing out of the ordinary happens - then being thrown into a situation where something unusual does happen. Hopper's adventures also resemble those of Harrison Ford's Indiana Jones charac-

ter. In October of last year, the show began its second season. Set in October 1984, just a few days before Halloween, the season opens with Winona Ryder's character Joyce in the first stages of a romance with Bob, a local Radio Shack manager played by Sean Astin, (aka Mikey of the 1985 movie favorite The Goonies), and the boys revealing a new obsession with the movie Ghostbusters. One of the main things I like about this show, along with characters and storylines, is the time and attention to detail spent recreating the 1980s in each episode. Some movies and television series set in certain time periods do this well, but others do it half-heartedly. Kudos to the Duffer Brothers and company for successfully recreating a beloved nostalgic era like the 1980s, on a show that you can sit back and watch, and suspend your disbelief that while time travel isn't possible, the next best thing is time traveling back to a more innocent era. Miss you, 1980s. Stranger Things is a great mix of nostalgia, interesting characters and storylines. Both seasons are now available on Netflix, so check it out, and have some 80s style fun and adventure. Official Rating: (4 out of 4 Eight Track Tapes) Photo: (top) Chuck Brutz and Tasha Oskey went retro this past Halloween, with Chuck dressing as Dustin from Stranger Things and Tasha dressing as 80s icon She-ra.

Michael Neiberg returns to PT Library to conclude WWI & America series Michael Neiberg returns to the Peters Township Public Library on Thursday, January 18 at 7 p.m. for America in War and Peace. This is the final program in the World War I and America series presented in partnership with VFW Memorial Park Post 764 and the Veterans Breakfast Club. Register to attend this free program at ptlibrary.org or call 724-9419430 #1. Neiberg will examine the role of the United States in winning the war 10

and shaping the postwar peace. Military strategy and postwar diplomacy were intimately linked, as President Woodrow Wilson sought a distinct, independent American contribution to victory in order to ensure him a guiding role in the peace conference. Wilson’s views on the postwar peace met with tremendous resistance, both from his European allies and from his fellow Americans. Echoes of that debate still resonate with us today as America again

debates its place in the world. Michael Neiberg has a Ph.D. in History from Carnegie Mellon University and is the inaugural Chair of War Studies in the Department of National Security and Strategy at the United States Army War College. His published work specializes on the First and Second World Wars, notably the American and French experiences.

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Royal Princess Engagements brings storybook characters to life for kids Story by Lauren Rearick Children in the Washington area have a chance to live out their wildest storybook or comic book fantasies. Royal Princess Engagements, 31 Chestnut St., Washington, is enlivening the pages of well known fairytales for children of all ages to enjoy with their event planning services. The business, founded in 2012 by Linda Ronto, started in the classroom. Ronto, a preschool teacher, was approached by a mom who asked if Ronto's daughter, Julianna would mind stepping into a pair of glass slippers and becoming a princess for the night. It was the first princess-approved party that Ronto planned. Putting together a costume with the help of local thrift stores and Pinterest, Ronto and her daughter used their version of magic fairy dust to impress a group of young children at a birthday party. From there, parents continued to approach Ronto about her daughter dressing up as different fairytale characters and attending their child's party. “It all started because of my love for sewing, costumes, drawing and make believe theatre,” Ronto said. “It really didn't start out as a business at all.” Royal Princess Engagements continued to garner popularity among parents following the theatrical release of popular fairy tale movies. Staying up all night to work on costumes, Ronto realized that they “could make this work,” and by August of 2014 they had a Facebook page and were receiving more calls than ever. Ronto explains that the ideas for her costumes just come to her and she often spends her spare time thinking up ideas,

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and adding flourishes of fun to her costumes. There are some costumes she hasn't managed to master yet because of their difficulty, but she's enjoyed the opportunity to tap into her creative side. Last year saw the introduction of some new caped crusaders to the lineup. “We had never had superpose before, but people kept asking for them,” she said. “We finally added some superheroes, and now have about 22 princesses and 12 superheroes in our lineup.” Whether putting together a ballroom gown for a pair of snowy sisters or adding a mask to a evil doer known for his dark side, Ronto said that once she starts working on a costume her brain will continue to think it over, looking for ways to make the outfit as authentic as possible. She usually spends time watching the movies her costumes are based on, sometimes even watching a

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film multiple times. Since beginning the business, Ronto has enjoyed seeing the smiles on faces of children meeting their heroes. She still recalls holding a first anniversary birthday party for her business that featured an appearance from 12 princesses, and how exciting it was to see the public.In addition to traveling birthday appearances, Ronto and her crew hold tea parties and special events in their Chestnut Street location. She said that she wants her business to be an affordable way for parents and children to make their fantasy dreams come true. “This is definitely a passion project and we want everyone to be able to come to our events,” she said. “We all do this business because we love it and are passionate about it. We want to bring these storybook characters to life.” FMI, please visit facebook.com/ royalprincessengagement

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The Artsburgh Flex Pass is a great way to sample performing arts and music events throughout the Greater Pittsburgh area! Simply order as many Flex Passes as you like (each pass is good for one ticket to one event!) and follow the redemption instructions for the event you are going to see. Attend any event that appears in the Artsburgh calendar's “Artsburgh Flex Pass” tab. Each pass is good for one ticket to any event. Passes are valid for any performance within 12 months of your purchase date. See lots of art, any time. See the shows you like throughout the year with no additional subscription commitment to any one organization. See more art and save. Passes start at just $20 each. The more passes you buy, the more you save. 3-5 passes are $18 each & 6 or more passes are $15 each. The following organizations are Artsburgh Flex Pass participants: Alia Musica Pittsburgh, Arcade Comedy Theater, Bach Choir of Pittsburgh, Focus on Renewal/Ryan Arts and Culture Center, Kinetic Theatre Company, Moquette Volante, New Hazlett Theater CSA performance series, off the WALL productions, Pittsburgh New Works Festival, Pittsburgh Opera, Prime Stage Theatre, Real/Time Interventions, Renaissance & Baroque,Texture Contemporary Ballet,Trevor C. Dance Collective, Urban Impact Foundation. For more information: artsburgh.org/artsburgh-flex-pass

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Over the years we've talked about: streaming services and the devices they play on, free phone service from Goggle Voice and ObiHai, computer hardware upgrades instead of buying a new computer and we even dipped our proverbial toe into the world of fake news and fact checking. In the new year, this column will be moving to more specific product reviews. The offerings in each area have expanded to such a broad degree, making coverage of any complete product line next to impossible or at least in this limited space. I just couldn't give a fair accounting. We start our first specific product review with Amazon's AI (Artificial Intelligence) assistant Alexa. We've already talked about Amazon's Echo and the many forms it comes in, but that's the just the body, not much more than a standard speaker. At over 10 million installs and commanding 70% of the voice controller speaker market, Alexa is the heart, mind and soul of those devices as well as several others. Since her initial release in November of 2014 with a skill set totaling 14 commands, she has added over 15,000 more. Most are very niche, but I'll be listing a few of the most interesting skills and giving you a complete review next edition of how useful they were over the last month. The following list was compiled from tomsguide.com. Ask My Buddy - The Ask My Buddy skill will send a notification (text, SMS or phone call) to a pre-selected contact when you're in an emergency and can't reach your phone. While this feature is not a substitute for 911, it lets you tell loved ones you need help. The Magic Door - Tell Alexa to Open The Magic Door, and you'll be off on an

interactive adventure with magical creatures to admire, puzzles to solve and hidden items to find. At the end, you'll get a prize, too. This Day in History - The History Channel's This Day in History skill will tell you historical facts not just on the day you ask, but any day you specify. You can either say "Alexa, launch this day in history" or "Ask this day in history what happened on February 10." You might just learn something! Meditation Timer - Ready your mantras! Developed by Stop, Breathe & Think, Meditation Timer will ask you how long you want to meditate for, and then will play either forest, rain, or surf sounds to help you relax. 7 Minute Workout - Alexa can whip your behind into shape with the 7 Minute Workout skill. If you say, "Alexa, start 7-minute workout," the virtual assistant will suggest reportedly tested exercises that will increase your metabolism, improve your energy and remove fat. The best part: You can take breaks when you need them. EarPlay - Like an old-time radio show that you can participate in, EarPlay lets you listen to, and interact with, the characters in one of several audio stories, complete with voice acting and sound effects. TED Talks - The TED Talks skill lets you listen to all of the TED presentations through your Alexa-enabled device. You can search for a particular speaker, or search for topics that interest you. New TED talks are available every week, so the content is always fresh. Remember to check our next edition to see how our full review of each of the above.

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Waynesburg University professor publishes poem Robert Randolph, chairperson of the English and Foreign Languages Department, recently published a poem, “The Mayor,” in an online journal, after working on the piece for three years. Randolph said “The Mayor” is based on images of what the speaker would look for in a good mayor, and he spent a long time tinkering with the piece. “I am not sure what inspired it,” he said. “Often my poems start with images that came along and seem interesting, and I write what comes along connected to it… “The Mayor” took about three years to write because I began working with one of the images long ago and never felt comfortable with whatever I wrote tied to that image, although I went through many drafts over those years.” Over the course of his academic career, Randolph has published approximately 60 different poems in

about 40 separate journals, as well as a book of poetry, dozens of essays and several articles. Randolph said that staying active in the writing community has helped him immensely as an educator. “I believe that a teacher who 'practices what he or she preaches' stands a good chance of being a good teacher about that subject,” he said. “When that practice is connected to a teacher's desire to help students share the topic, the teacher offers both theory and practice to the student.” Randolph also recently published “The Sad Man in the Moon,” in a hardback anthology, The Moon, published by Outrider Press. For him, writing is simply part of life. “Writers write, dancers dance, preachers preach, singers sing, teachers teach, and so on,” he said. “Whatever passion gets 'in the blood' of the teacher, that teacher wants to do and to share.”

Chamber music concerts slated for winter, spring Now in its fourth season, Chamber Music at Old St. Luke's once again gifts Pittsburgh music lovers with the opportunity to enjoy intimate chamber music concerts in beautiful Old St. Luke's Church in Carnegie PA. This charming, historic building is an ideal setting for the close communion between performers and audience that makes chamber music such a special, rewarding experience. The 2017-2018 season of “Chamber Music at Old St. Luke's” features some of Pittsburgh's foremost musicians performing a wide variety of music, from classical treasures to traditional Appalachian carols in a series of eight lively programs. Performances will be held on Sundays at 2 p.m.: February 18 - Academy Chamber Ensemble and Slippery Rock University Chamber Singers - “Austria and

Waynesburg University professor led workshops According to Dr. Xela Batchelder, assistant professor of arts administration, learning outside of the classroom is just as important for students. Not only is Batchelder involved with the largest arts festival in the world, the Edinburgh Fringe; she also helps students break into the industry through her own company, Fringe University. Recently, Batchelder led two different workshops at a Rochester, New York, festival in September. Her workshops helped performers learn to take their show to Edinburgh Fringe and to other fringe festivals throughout the United States and Canada. “Performers are realizing that they don't have to rely on the curatorial establishment to make a living as paid performers, but rather there is a circuit of very accepting festivals that they can tour and make a living doing what they are good at and what they love,” said Batchelder. “I enjoy helping performers

find their own audiences through fringe festivals.” As executive director of Fringe University, Batchelder helps undergraduate and graduate professors form curriculum, produce shows and attend Fringe shows and events. She helps organize guest speakers and lectures, and has also been a lecturer herself. Batchelder said through her connections, students have been able to join her in Edinburgh to work, gaining realworld experience. Her work in the academic community outside of Waynesburg has allowed students to make connections with important arts managers across the globe. “Everything I do is focused on benefiting my students,” Batchelder said. “By my being in the field, my students have real life opportunities, as well as contacts around the world working currently in the field.”

ANNUAL CHILI COOK OFF! Sunday, January 28, 2018

Plan to join in the fun & fellowship of our annual chili-cook off. Bring your entry to share & you might win the Golden Ladle! The event is free & starts immediately following our 10 a.m. worship service.

Croatia” - 2 p.m. March 25 - Gypsy Stringz - virtuoso violinist George Batyi and his band play Hungarian gypsy music and more - 2 p.m. April 22 - Academy Baroque Ensemble - “Tutto Italiano” - 2 p.m. May 20 - harpist Marissa Avon - 2 p.m. All concerts are free to the public. Donations are accepted and appreciated.

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California University to host Ohio Theatre Alliance Open Theatre Auditons Story by Keren Lee Dreyer California University theatre students will not have to travel in early 2018 for auditions and interviews for summer stock or year round employment. The Open Theatre Auditions, sponsored by the Ohio Theatre Alliance (OTA), have for some years taken place at Muskingum University in Concord, Ohio. However, the university has experienced faculty retirements and health issues, leaving them without the manpower to host the event in 2018, said Dr. Michele Pagen, Co-chair of the Department of Music and Theatre, and chair of the theatre division at California University of Pennsylvania. “They asked the two venues they thought were suitable, which was Kent State (Ohio) and us.” When Kent State demurred, Pagen took the reins. “Our department pretty much are all on board for helping make this happen,” Pagen said. “We met with students to sign up and come back (early) because it happens before the new semester begins. Many are interested in coming back because it's an excellent experience.” Whether the auditions find a permanent home at California University or alternate between there and Kent state is yet to be determined, according to Pagen. Students acquiring work experience during the Open Theatre Auditions, being held on January 13 and 14, 2018 can count it as resume credit as this is a professional event, rather than typical show work, Pagen said. Additionally,

Pagen likes to include younger students for events such as this because “they get to work in the rooms where the auditions are happening or the technicians are working, so they can see what's happening. It sort of sets them up for the future.” With Steele Hall's 2007 renovation and expansion, and several faculty positions added in 2015, the California University theatre department is well equipped and staffed to handle the approximately 400 performers expected to audition and interview during the day-and-a-half event. Though Pagen expects “a little bit of a dip this year,” she notes that Cal's Theatre Department already has “put things into place to get more companies to attend in future years,” including outreach to currently active theatre companies along with new theatres which have formed more recently. The Open Theatre Auditions, which place students “before multiple companies at the same time,” are 90 seconds total and include a prepared monologue and a song, or two monologues, and

typically a dance audition, Pagen said. “They get a call back from companies who feel they have a good fit with them. Students who interview present their portfolios of costuming, stage managing, lighting - the more technical areas of stage.” Pagen noted that there is a greater need for theatre technicians than actors, so those seeking technical summer stock or year round employment “will work.” Performers making the cut will find themselves on stage or behind the scenes in a company located anywhere from New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, or Michigan, to name a few. California University theatre students “are always in some form of preparation,” Pagen said. A number of students, past and present, have found both repeated summer stock and year-round employment with various theatre companies that participated in the Open Theatre Auditions. “It's a great deal of fun. We're feeling a little bittersweet because we're happy it's here, but also enjoyed traveling and being together for those two days” Pagen said, adding “We're happy to show off our theatre department and the things that we have here...people who have worked it in the past are happy to show new students how it works. Everybody's happy to share it all around.” For audition and interview specific information, requirements, and times, visit Ohio Theatre Alliance's web site at: ohiotheatrealliance.org/ And be sure to make friends with Cal-U's theatre department on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CalUTheatre

Waynesburg University students served others over winter break During Winter Break, 25 Waynesburg University students will participate in service trips in various locations. Kristen Stone, network analyst for Information Technology Services, and Carin Camp, campus security office, led seven students to Aransas Pass, Texas, from Saturday, Dec. 16, to Friday, Dec. 22. The students will partner with the organization “All Hands Volunteers,” to assist in continuing relief efforts after

Hurricane Harvey. Ten students, led by Kylee Sargent, help desk coordinator, and Kerry Purnell, assistant registrar, will serve at the E.P. Roberts Primary School in Nassau, Bahamas. The trip will take place from Saturday, Jan. 6, through Saturday, Jan. 13. Students will assist in teaching a variety of grade levels at a primary school in Nassau, Bahamas, and will also be visiting a local orphanage to

work with children. Dr. Chad Sherman, assistant professor of communication, and Melinda RoederSkrbin, instructor of communication, will lead eight students to serve at Trans World Radio in Bonaire Saturday, Jan.

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Westmoreland County Community College graduates police academy cadets

The â&#x20AC;&#x153;EmigrationImmigration-Migrationâ&#x20AC;? exhibit will be on display at The Westmoreland Museum of American Art from January 20-April 22, 2018. An Opening Reception will be held Saturday, January 20 from 6:308 p.m. Emigration-Immigration-Migration is a civic engagement project that uses photographic imagery to document the faces and experiences of multiple generations of immigrants and their descendants. Using Pittsburgh's stories as a lens through which to consider the broader American immigrant experience, the project highlights the central role that immigration has played in the formation of our identity, in sustaining our economy, and in the enrichment of our cultural diversity; and in so doing, the project helps create a space for civil, constructive conversation about immigration today. Five photographers from the Pittsburgh region are participating in this project; they are Brian Cohen, Lynn Johnson, Annie O'Neill, Scott Goldsmith, and Nate Guidry.The two writers on the team are Reid Frazier and Erika Beras. The Museum is located at 221 N. Main Street, Greensburg. FMI: Visit thewestmoreland.org or call 724-837-1500

Westmoreland County Community College recently graduated 32 police academy cadets from its Municipal Police Officers' Training Academy at a ceremony on November 21. Instructor Albert Rivardo was guest speaker. Rivardo has been with the Westmoreland Police Academy since 1995 and has been in law enforcement for more than twenty years. Rivardo is currently employed as an agent with the Pennsylvania Attorney General's office. Earning special recognition for Academic Excellence were James Garlick of Point Marion and Tabatha Wolfe of Fayette City. The Firearms Proficiency award went to James Garlick and David Johnston of Penn Township. The Driving Proficiency award went to James Garlick and Kelsea Lander of Herminie. The President's Leadership Award went to Michael Beachy of Markleysburg and David Johnston. The graduates from Class 46 were Michael Beachy; Curtis Bukovan, Uniontown; Zachary Chamblee, Calhoun, GA; Matthew DeChicchis, Jeannette; Troy Faulk and Zachary Vernail, Greensburg; Justin Folwer-Hott, North Huntingdon; James Garlick; Olivia Harshell, Penn; Jerry Hobeck and Tyler Kowall, McKeesport; Christopher Kovacs, Penn Township; Chad Shoupe, Vandergrift; and Ross Welshons, Manor. The graduates from Class 47 were Andrew Carter, John Popovich and Cody Stanoszek, North Huntingdon; Ryan Dinizio, New Stanton; David Johnston; Tyler Kascak, West Mifflin; Kelsea Lander; Zachary Lukon, New Derry; Marla Matis and Troy Modrak, North Huntingdon; Alexander Niehaus, Mt. Pleasant; Patrick O'Neill, Latrobe; Nathan Roy, Irwin; Michael Shabe and Paige Wallace, Greensburg; James Shaw, Connellsville; Ashley Sousa, Hudson, MA; and Tabatha Wolfe. The Westmoreland Municipal Police Officers' Training Academy celebrated its 38th year and has both a part-time and full-time academy. The 800-hour program trains students to become police officers in Pennsylvania cities, boroughs and townships. Cadets also become Emergency First Responders

and are certified in CPR, Incident Command, the National Incident Management System and tactical skills. The Westmoreland Police academy is taught by 25 professional instructors that include working officers, investigators and leaders from throughout the southwest Pennsylvania region as well as a practicing attorney and a district magistrate judge. All are certified for their expertise by the Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission. Westmoreland is recruiting applicants for the 2018 Part-time Municipal Police Academy which starts January 13 and will begin recruitment for the 2018 Full-time Municipal Police Academy in February. Visit westmoreland.edu/policeacademy to learn more about this program or call 724-925-4112. Photos: Cadet pictures of the 2017 WCCC Municipal Police Officers' Training Academy Graduation for Class

46 and 47. Class 46 (top) - Front (L to R) Jerry M. Hobeck, Chad M. Shoupe, Michael J. Beachy, Christopher A. Kovacs, Matthew L. DeChicchis, Olivia C. Harshell, Justin M. Folwer-Hott, Lead Instructor Randy Cox. Back (L to R) Ross E. Welshons, Tyler A. Kowall, James T. Garlick, Zachary W. Vernail, Curtis J. Bukovan, Zachary L. Chamblee, Troy J. Faulk. Class 47 (bottom) - Front (L to R) Instructor Thomas Horan, Michael J. Shabe, Alexander M. Niehaus, Tabatha N. Wolfe, Nathan S. Roy, James E. Shaw, Paige N. Wallace, Kelsea l. Lander, Marla R. Matis, Ashley E. Sousa. Back (L to R) Cody T. Stanoszek, Andrew J. Carter, Troy L. Modrak, John L. Popovich, Tyler J. Kascak, Patrick O'Neill, David M. Johnston, Ryan J. Dinizio, Zachary P. Lukon.

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Monessen Public Library Author Series kicks off with Heidi Ruby Miller The Monessen Public Library is happy to announce its plans to launch a new author series for the 2018 year. Each month, a local author will visit the library to discuss writing, read from their books, participate in a question-and-answer session, and sign their books. These free events offer the public the opportunity to meet and support published authors, learn about the craft of writing, and engage with other fans of their favorite genre. Refreshments will be served. All members of the public are welcome. With the help of library director Dave Zilka, the series is coordinated by local author Carrie Gessner. She earned a BA in English from Carnegie Mellon University and an MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. She is a fantasy author whose books include THE DYING OF THE GOLDEN DAY and THE STROKE OF THIRTEEN. She currently resides in the Valley and is delighted to facilitate the author series for the Monessen Public Library, where she previously volunteered and worked. On Saturday, January 27th, the library will welcome its first guest, author Heidi Ruby Miller. The event will take place at 1:00 PM. She will talk about paths to publication, including her progression from travel writer to novelist. Heidi uses research for her stories as an excuse to roam the globe. Her books include the popular AMBASADORA series, MAN OF WAR, which is a sequel to Science Fiction Grandmaster

Philip José Farmer's novel TWO HAWKS FROM EARTH, and the award-winning writing guide MANY GENRES, ONE CRAFT. In between trips, Heidi teaches creative writing at Seton Hill University, where she graduated from their renowned Writing Popular Fiction Graduate Program the same month she appeared on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. She is a member of The Authors Guild, International Thriller Writers, Pennwriters, Littsburgh, PARSEC, Broad Universe, and Science Fiction Poetry Association. Follow Heidi's adventures with her husband, Jason Jack Miller, on their YouTube travel and lifestyle channel Small Space, Big Life and find her author interview series Three Great Things About on YouTube at Heidi Ruby Miller. You can also find her online at www.heidirubymiller.com. The complete schedule of guests is: February 24: Jamie Lackey, author of LEFT-HAND GODS March 3: Jason Jack Miller, author of

THE DEVIL AND PRESTON BLACK April (date TBA): Amy Lee Heinlen, author of the forthcoming ALL ELSE FALLS TO SHADOW May 19: Joshua David Bellin, author of FREEFALL June 30: Cat Bruno, author of THE GIRL FROM THE NORTH July 7: Stephanie Keyes, author of THE STAR CHILD August (date TBA): KW Taylor, author of THE CURIOSITY KILLERS September 8: Mary Soon Lee, author of CROWNED: THE SIGN OF THE DRAGON October 20: A.M. Rycroft, author of INTO THE DARKNESS November (date TBA): Tara Manderino, author of TAKING CHANCES December (date TBA): Liz Milliron/M.E. Sutton, author of AN IDYLLIC PLACE FOR MURDER This lineup is subject to change should a conflict arise in the authors' schedules. More information can be found online at: https://www.facebook.com/mplauthorseries/. The library is located at 326 Donner Avenue and is under the direction of Dave Zilka. Photo (top) of Heidi Ruby Miller by Jason Jack Miller.

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Bag and Bling Bash Feb. 25 from 2-4 p.m. Doors open at 12:30 $20 ticket gets two chances to win authentic, name-brand purses, totes, wallets, and jewelry! Extra raffles, 50/50, Lottery wreath, Dessert Buffet, FUN!

Rhythm of the Dance March 18 at 7 p.m. Tickets $40, $36 & $25 There’s no better way to wrap up your St. Patrick’s Day weekend than with a traditional Irish dance spectacular. Come enjoy the excitement and enthusiasm of Rhythm of the Dance!

Classic Film Series Jan. 12 at 2 & 7 p.m. Feb. 9 at 2 & 7 p.m. January’s film is Airplane! February’s film is

FIND YOUR INNER “WOO HOO”! ZUMBA WITH LYNNE

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“Woo Hoo” your way to a New You with certified Zumba & fitness instructor Lynne Hayes Langley. Classes meet at the California Young Men’s Club on Mondays & Wednesdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays,Tuesdays & Fridays at 6 p.m. CALIFORNIA YOUNG MEN’S CLUB, 1140 EDWARDS STREET, CALIFORNIA

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Save the date for these performances by Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Don’t miss your chance to enjoy the beauty and spectacle of a performance by the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. Save the date for these upcoming shows featuring PBT dancers. Swan Lake with the PBT Orchestra Venue: Benedum Center An evil enchantment and a mysterious love story give wings to a ballet that has captured the public imagination since 1895. Together with the live PBT Orchestra, PBT returns to Swan Lake for two weekends around Valentine's Day. Swan Lake exemplifies classical technique - from the ballet en blanc swan scenes to the Black Swan's famous 32 fouettés. But it's the undulating port de bras of the swans - a movement quality unique to Swan Lake - that lends its own mystique to the classical vocabulary. Set to the stirring themes of Tchaikovsky's score, the split personalities of Odette and Odile mirror the ageold battle between good and evil. Single

tickets start at $28. Friday, February 16 - 8 p.m. Saturday, February 17 - 2 p.m. Saturday, February 17 - 8 p.m. Sunday, February 18 - 2 p.m. Friday, February 23 - 8 p.m. Saturday, February 24 - 2 p.m. Saturday, February 24 - 8 p.m. Sunday, February 25 - 2 p.m. New Works Venue: August Wilson Center PBT has built its repertory around an

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annually. (People forget that most digital thermostats have batteries in them, getting into a good habit of changing the batteries can help you eliminate a no heat situation). 4. Seal air leaks around the house (doors, windows, pipes, attic hatches) with caulking and weather stripping material to keep temperatures in

the home controlled. 5. Make sure all registers and grilles are not covered up. 6. Pour bleach into your condensate pump and then let it pump out, next pour ½ cup in and let pump out on its own. 7. If you have any concerns or it seems that something is not working correctly don’t hesitate to give us a call!

eclectic mix of classics, modern masterworks and new commissions from both seasoned and emerging choreographers. In March at the August Wilson Center, Artistic Director Terrence S. Orr will hand over the program to choreographic voices from PBT's own company of dancers: Amanda Cochrane, Julia Erickson, Yoshiaki Nakano, Jessica McCann, William Moore, JoAnna Schmidt and Cooper Verona. Each choreographer will create a signature work on his or her fellow artists, offering audience members a personal, insightful look at the way today's dancers interpret their own medium.. Friday, March 16, at 8 p.m. Saturday, March 17, at 8 p.m. Sunday, March 18, at 2 p.m. Friday, March 23, at 8 p.m. Saturday, March 24, at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 24, at 8 p.m. Sunday, March 25, at 2 p.m. UPMC Presents West Side Story Suite + In the Night + Fancy Free

BURGERS

with the PBT Orchestra Venue: Benedum Center PBT celebrates the 100th birthdays of collaborators Jerome Robbins and Leonard Bernstein with three company premieres. The theatrical West Side Story Suite samples iconic songs (with dancer vocal debuts!) and Tony-winning choreography from the duo's groundbreaking musical (1957) and film. PBT also debuts in Robbins' first ballet and claim to fame: Fancy Free (1944), an early Bernstein collaboration that inspired the Broadway hit On the Town. Rounding out the program is a more rarely seen Robbins masterwork: his classical In the Night (1940), which sets romantic pas de deux for three couples to four Chopin nocturnes. Friday, May 4, at 8 p.m. Saturday, May 5, at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 5, at 8 p.m. Sunday, May 6, at 3 p.m. FMI: pbt.org

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Like a phoenix, Scenery Hill treasure Century Inn soon to rise from ashes Story by Dave Zuchowski When the Century Inn in Scenery Hill, one of Washington County’s most beloved historic treasures, burned in August of 2015, not only was owner Megin Harrington emotionally devastated, but many others who remember the inn as the place where they held their wedding rehearsal dinners, burial luncheons, bridal and baby showers, celebratory dinners, art shows and parties were struck to the core by a sense of loss. “When the firemen who arrived to put out the fire, I could see that some of them were crying,” said Harrington as one example of the community’s collective sorrow . However, like a phoenix rising from its ashes, the inn is undergoing a complete restoration. Built in 1788 and visited by luminaries such as presidents George Washington, Andrew Jackson and James Polk, the Marquis de Lafayette, Mexican general Antonio de Santa Anna, Chief Black Hawk and David Bradford of Whiskey Rebellion fame, the historic building will once again open its doors to the public to project into the future its illustrious historic timeline Fortunately, the skeletal remains of the structure, built with stone quarried on the property, remained largely intact after the fire. Architect Pete Margittai of Pittsburgh and Washington contractor, Lou Waller, have utilized the stone remnants plus some of the original wooden beams, charred but still viable, as the foundation of their restoration. (You can see some of the charred wooden supports in the bar area and over the doorway that links the corridor to the Keeping Room). Something often overlooked by visitors but cherished by Harrington is included in the inventory of stone remnants. “One of the first things I looked for after the fire was the worn stone step that connects the entranceway corridor to the rear of the building,” Harrington said. After digging through the rubble, she discovered the stone intact, a relic from the original inn that remains in place in

the restored structure. While Harrington said her intention is to keep the same feel of the original inn during the restoration, several practical issues of the former structure have been corrected. For one, the building is now well insulated and each guest room has its own heating and air conditioning systems. There are also cozy, private patios just outside some of the guest rooms. In the bar area, which has retained its original configuration, stone that had been covered over through the years is now visible, adding to the room’s attractive ambiance. Those who frequented the bar before the fire will also now recognize the newly installed bar stools. “We can now swivel and swirl,” Harrington said. jokingly The inn’s cherished Whiskey Rebellion flag, which dates back to the 1790s and once occupied a place of prominence in the tavern, was saved from the fire’s flames. Following the conflagration, the relic was held for safe keeping at the Heinz Regional History Center in Pittsburgh, but will soon make its way back to the inn where it will once again occupy it original place on a tavern wall. Something new to the inn is the Chef’s Table, ensconced in a space off the Garden Room, where up to 8 diners will be able to dine and watch chef Matt Kinsey and staff prepare French-influenced American fare through large plate

glass windows. Harrington said the restored inn should reopen - at the latest - by the end of winter with a series of soft openings. While much of the work has been completed, additional furniture still needs to be installed, and an array of paintings needs to be mounted on the walls. To furnish and decorate the inn, Harrington said she’s been going to auctions, estate sales and antique emporiums and that some of the items have been donated “I’ve come to realize how many others were affected by the fire,” she said. “It’s heartwarming to see how they’ve responded.” In the past, both visitors and employees of the inn have reported having paranormal experiences at various place in the inn. When asked if she thought the purported ghostly occupants would again appear in the newly restored building, Harrington said she consulted with experts and got an affirmative answer. “Energy cannot be destroyed,” she explained . “But keep in mind, we only allow friendly ghosts here.” Photo of Megin Harrington in front of Century Inn by Dave Zuchowski

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Supporting a child through grief & bereavement Even very young children feel the pain of bereavement, but they learn how to express his or her grief by watching the adults around them. After a loss-particularly of a sibling or parent-children need support, stability, and honesty. They may also need extra reassurance that they will be cared for and kept safe. As an adult, you can support children through the grieving process by demonstrating that it's okay to be sad and helping them make sense of the loss. Answer any questions the child may have as truthfully as you can. Use very simple, honest, and concrete terms when explaining death to a child. Childrenespecially young children-may blame themselves for what happened and the truth helps them see they are not at fault. Open communication will smooth the way for a child to express distressing feelings. How to help a grieving child: Allow your child, however young, to attend the funeral if he or she wants to. Convey your spiritual values about life and death, or pray with your child. Meet regularly as a family to find out how everyone is coping. Help children find ways to symbolize and memorialize the deceased person. Keep your child's daily routine as normal as possible. Pay attention to the way a child plays; this can be one of a child's primary ways of communicating. What not to do: Don't force a child to publicly mourn if he or she doesn't want to. Don't give false or confusing messages, like “Grandma is sleeping now.” Don't tell a child to stop crying because others might get upset. Don't try to shield a child from the loss. Children pick up on much more than adults realize. Don't stifle your tears; by crying in front of your child, you send the message that it's okay for him or her to express feelings, too. Don't turn your child into your personal confidante. Rely on another adult or a support group instead.

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Extra! Extra! Read all about it! The second book in the Della and Lila series, Della and Lila and the Treasure Adventure, is now available to purchase online at Amazon or at our official site.

Voted “Best of the ‘Burgh” by Pittsburgh Magazine and “Best of the Best” by the Observer-Reporter. Author Brianne Bayer Mitchell was the proud recipient of the Inspiring Lives Magazine Empowering Women in Philanthropy Award for 2017. Local Readers, get your copy of Della and Lila and the Treasure Adventure or Della and Lila Meet the Monongahela Mermaid (or both!) at Flowers by Regina in California, PA.

Learn more at dellaandlila.com or facebook.com/dellaandlila

“Skippyjon Jones Snow What” at various venues Theatreworks USA will perform Skippyjon Jones Snow What, based on the best-selling book by Judy Schachner, at six venues located throughout the Pittsburgh and surrounding areas, Sunday, January 7 through Sunday, January 14, 2018. This production is part of the 2017-2018 Citizens Bank Children's Theater Series, presented by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. The series brings to our communities a one of a kind experience for families and their children, ages three and up, to see live professional theater by national and international performing artists that inspire, educate, and bring culture awareness and appreciation of the arts in an entertaining and creative environment for everyone to enjoy. Skippyjon Jones Snow What, based on the book by Judy Schachner, features a libretto and lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila (Drama Desk nominee for Altar Boyz and Theatreworks USA's Skippyjon Jones) and a score by Eli Bolin (“Sesame Street,” Theatreworks USA's We the People and Skippyjon Jones). The show was originally directed by Kevin Del Aguila and choreographed by Connor Gallagher (Theatreworks USA's The Teacher From the Black Lagoon & Other Story Books). The show features costumes by Tracy Christensen (Souvenir and Shrek on Broadway, Lortel nominee for Theatreworks' Seussical) with sets by Rob Odorisio (three-time Emmy nominee for “The Guiding Light,” Theatreworks USA's If You Give a Mouse a Cookie). Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the bravest Chihuahua of them all? Skippyjon Jones the Siamese cat who thinks he's a Mexican Chihuahua of course! While his sisters listen to Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Skippy heads off for the REAL adventure awaiting him in his closet. There, as his alter ego Skippito Friskito, and with the help of his friends the Seven Chimichangos, Skippyjon must rescue the beautiful princess Nieve Qué (Snow What), battle the evil dragon and defeat the Bruja. Theatreworks USA's musical, based on the book by Judy Schachner, Skippyjon Jones Snow What, is a twist on the classic fairytale Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The NY Daily News shares, “The DOGGONE delightful kids musical 'Skippyjon Jones Snow What' comes with an easygoing lesson: imagi-

nation can lead you anywhere you want to go.” Performance Locations: Sunday, January 7, 2018: Byham Theater, 2:00 p.m. & Monday, January 8, 2018: Student Groups, 10: 15 a.m. Wednesday, January 10, 2018: Greensburg Salem High School, 7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 11, 2018: Marshall Middle School, 5:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 12, 2018: Cornell High School: 7:00 p.m. Saturday, January 13, 2018: Mt. Lebanon High School, 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m. Sunday, January 14, 2018: Seneca Valley Intermediate High School, 2:00 p.m. Ticket Information Individual tickets (General admission: $12 at the door; $10.50 in advance) can be ordered at these official Pittsburgh Cultural Trust ticket sources: online at www.TrustArts.org/kids, by calling 412456-6666, or in person at the Box Office at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue. Groups of 10+ can order tickets by calling 412-471-6930 or visit TrustArts.org/groupsales. Subscriptions and Flex Ticket Packages to the Citizens Bank Children's Theater series are available by calling 412-456-1390. *Children under 2 are free but require a lap pass. The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Children's Theater membership is awesome. For more information, visit TrustArts.org/SupportKids, email: members@trustarts.org or call 412-471-3518.

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Mental Health Spotlight: Coping with Imposter Syndrome Imposter syndrome, also known as imposter phenomenon; fraud syndrome or the imposter experience. Although not a mental disorder, it affects over 70% of the population. What exactly is it? It's the inability of people to internalize their achievements and successes, instead adopting a fear of being exposed as a fraud. This is even more common amongst those who are high achievers. The irony with this syndrome is regardless of external proof of success, the person still holds on to the fear that they are a faker and not worthy of the praise achieved. Why have I chosen to kick off the new year with this topic if it isn't specific to mental illness? Simple. We all tend to start off with a New Years Resolution of some sort. We certain can't proceed if there is a feeling that we are failing and will be found out that we are a fraud. Especially, when the exact opposite is true. Here's where it really impacts the mental health community. Anxiety, anger, depression and fear are common traits, no matter what the diagnosis, someone with a mental illness must deal with constantly. Structure in

our days and achievable goals are an important part of recovery, as much as therapy and medication. What to do when imposter syndrome also piles on? For us who are diagnosed, the definition of high achievement can be something as simple as taking a shower, getting out of bed in the morning or going grocery shopping. Imposter syndrome can be addressed by talking with your therapist and/or sharing in group therapy. There is however, a simpler, more personal therapy.

Writing therapy is where we can journal our thoughts and objective accomplishments. This brings the achievements into the here and now providing a reality marker as opposed to dismissing them internally. The written record can also serve as a memory benchmark for later reflection, alleviating our feelings of inadequacy. I suffer from this BIG TIME and always have. It's one of the reasons I am always pushing myself to do more, many times sparking a hypomanic episode. After the post-holiday shopping rush dies down, I will be purchasing a journal to add a little writing therapy to my coping skills arsenal. I hope you will join me. NEED HELP? IN THE U.S., CALL 1800-273-8255 FOR THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE. *Mental Health Spotlight is an opinion based column. Any resources mentioned are provided for informational purposes only and should not be used to replace the specialized training and professional judgment of a health care or mental health care professional.

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens helps thousands go green Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens has helped 2,000 households convert from traditional electricity to fossil-free renewable energy through its Make the Switch at Phipps! Green Power Drive in partnership with Green Mountain Energy. Powering the average Pennsylvania home emits approximately the same amount of carbon dioxide as burning 16 barrels of oil would emit. At the end of a year, Phipps estimates these guests will have prevented 16,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions - equivalent to saving 33,605 barrels of oil from being burned! Phipps initiated the Make the Switch at Phipps! Green Power Drive to show guests that making a measurable difference is easy. Guests who switch their home electricity source to renewable, fossil-free energy during their visit to the Conservatory receive a free, yearlong family/household membership, and

existing members receive a free sixmonth extension. Phipps is dedicated to showing that sustainable practices are good for people and good for the planet, making the world a more beautiful place. Demonstrating this commitment, since 2005, all of the electricity used at Phipps is renewable, some of which is produced on site. Since 2010, all of the carbon dioxide emitted in order to heat Phipps buildings has been offset. All lights used in the Winter Flower Show and Light Garden are energy-efficient LEDs. And from 2005 to 2016, Phipps reduced carbon emissions from heating, cooling and powering its buildings by 56% per square foot. In a visitor survey, Phipps learned that nearly nine out of ten Phipps guests consider climate change a threat and are seeking easy-to-understand information to take action. Phipps understands that

climate change is a topic that can feel so daunting that people may think they cannot have an impact; however, getting started is much easier than they may think! In addition to Make the Switch at Phipps!, Phipps has introduced Easy Steps with Big Impact for Climate Change - the new online resource at phipps.conservatory.org/EasySteps that provides 10 simple, effective ways to take the next step in climate action. Phipps received the EPA's 2017 Green Power Leadership Award for Make the Switch at Phipps! and its educational sustainability programs. Among organizations registered with the EPA's Green Power Partnership, Phipps is one of only six institutions in the Museums, Parks and Zoos category and the only public garden that uses 100% renewable energy. FMI: phipps.conservatory.org/greeninnovation.

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“THE DRESSER”

APRIL 19 –

21, APRIL 26 – 29, & MAY 3 – 5 Backstage at a London theatre during a WWII air raid, Sir, the last of the great breed of English actor/managers, is in a bad way tonight and refuses to perform. Sir’s dresser, Norman, tries valiantly to prepare him to go on stage as King Lear.With Herculean effort on the part of Norman, Sir finally makes it on stage for the performance of his lifetime in this classic love letter to the theatre. “A FLEA

HER EAR”

MAY

10 – 12, 17 – 20, & 24 – 26 Laura Chandler believes that her husband Victor is having an affair with another woman, and tricks him into meeting her at a local “love” motel to catch him in the act. In doing so, she involves a huge range of characters, including a Tom Jones wannabe, a lascivious doctor, the owner of the Pussycat Motel, a very jealous Spanish nobleman and his wife, and a drunken porter named Potts, who happens to be Victor Chandler’s doppelganger. Hilarity ensues in this all out laugh riot farce set in the 1960’s. FMI: littlelake.org 21

News from Greater Monessen Historical Society

Engagement season is in full bloom at Phipps

The Monessen Heritage Museum will reopen on January 9, 2018. During the winter months, the museum will be open on its normal schedule of Wednesday through Saturday, from 10 AM until 3 PM, weather permitting. Please call to check before making a trip. As part of the Mon Valley History Digital Storytelling program between California University of PA, the Senator John Heinz History Center and local area historical societies, a video was created by CALU students, Ally Wilson and Emerson Maggi, in cooperation with the Greater Monessen Historical Society. As their topic, the students chose to research the 1923 Monessen Seagrave Metropolite fire engine owned by Monessen Fire Department #1. The video is called “1923 Monessen Seagrave Metropolite” and can be viewed on You Tube. The Spring Exhibit will focus on local bridges and river transportation. If anyone has photos they are willing to loan or donate for the exhibit, please drop them off at the museum or email a scan to monessen@verizon.net . The Museum is also still searching for photos of Washington and Linden Elementary Schools. The Greater Monessen Historical Society membership renewal and fund campaign for the 2018 year is underway. Individual memberships are $15 per year. A family membership is $20, with a business membership being $50. Membership is based on the calendar year and includes four issues of the newsletter, “Valley Historian”. Donations fund the operation of the Monessen Heritage Museum and allow the Society to adhere to its mission of preserving the ethnic and industrial his-

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a place where treasured memories are made - including some of the most special moments of all. Phipps hosts hundreds of wedding ceremonies, receptions, proposals, engagement photo shoots, bridal showers and rehearsal dinners every year. Chosen for its abundant natural beauty, unforgettable spaces and eco-friendly options, Phipps has been named the Best Garden Wedding Venue in the World by Elle UK and Harper's Bazaar. Engagement season is in full swing over the holidays - according to WeddingWire, one third of engagements happen between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day - and couples are seeking out a special place to say “I do.” From the scenic Special Events Hall offering beautiful panoramic views to the intimate Broderie Room transporting guests to a classic French garden, Phipps' variety of unique spaces offer the perfect celebration venue, personalized for each occasion. Phipps is committed to sustainability in all that they do - including wedding celebrations. From food to linens and everything in between, Phipps is here to help make your special day green without sacrificing comfort or convenience. 5 Tips to “Go Green” for Your Celebration: Shop Fresh and Local. Use locallyand sustainably-grown flowers, and choose locally-grown, organic menu items. Phipps' catering offers a wide variety of fresh, healthy meals created with local, organic, sustainably-produced and seasonal ingredients. Go Paperless. Use e-vites rather than mailed paper invitations for the engagement party, bridal shower, bachelor(ette) parties and save-the-dates. Websites like

tory of Monessen and the Mon Valley region. Future plans include renovating the Milsom/Endicott Johnson Building into a museum annex for additional exhibit and event space. The Historical Society is looking for: *Ledger books *Society minute books *Membership lists of organizations *Church bulletins *Funeral prayer cards *Advertising items for local businesses *Photos of ethnic celebrations *Photos of religious celebrations *Photos of old businesses *Photos of schools *Photos of industries *Event programs *Family genealogies The Greater Monessen Historical Society has a Twitter account. Follow us at @MonessenHistory. We are also on Facebook and have over 3000 followers worldwide! We can be located on Facebook under “Greater Monessen Historical Society”. See our latest events, news and photos of previous events. Google us and find our webpage filled with all the necessary information to visit, donate, join or learn about us! The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 AM until 3 PM. The address is 505 Donner Avenue, Monessen, PA, 15062. The phone number is 724-684-8460. Admission is always free.

Attention Vietnam Era Veterans (and families) Plans for an Honor Roll for Vietnam Era Veterans are moving along quickly in California, PA. The committee is collecting information about anyone in the California Area School District who served in the Armed Forces any time during the following dates: November 1, 1955-April 30, 1975. Vets (or their families) should send the following information to California, PA Vietnam War Honor Roll, P.O. Box 605, California, PA 15419: First, middle, and last name of the Veteran, Branch of

Service, Division, Years Served, Service Location, Current Address, Email Address, and Telephone Number. You may also email this information to VietnamWarHonorRoll@gmail.com.

Paperless Post create high-end online invitations that incorporate your wedding colors, styles and theme, and can offer tracking tools to easily manage your R.S.V.P.s while saving trees. Eat Your Veggies. Consider offering more meatless options. Growing plants produces far less greenhouse gases and uses less land than raising livestock. You don't have to sacrifice flavor to embrace meatless options! A few examples of the vegetarian options Phipps' catering offers include Japanese garnet organic sweet potatoes and ginger tartlets with plum sauce, Moroccan spiced chickpea cakes with cranberry apricot chutney, and brioche rounds with goat cheese mousse, seasonal melon and fresh mint - delicious food that is good for you and the planet. Dispose of Disposables. Cut back on waste by opting for reusable items. Phipps uses glasses rather than paper or plastic cups, and partners with Lendable Linens for tablecloths and linen napkins. Not only do these items reduce waste they also look classier! Get Real. Rather than throwing confetti or glitter, or releasing helium balloons - all of which can be harmful to wildlife - throw real flower petals when the newly married couple makes their debut. While you go green, you can also save some green! Celebrating engagement season, Phipps is offering 20% off space rental fees for Special Events Hall, Tropical Forest Conservatory and the East Wing of the Conservatory for events occurring on Saturdays, February 17 - April 14 for a limited time. For a list of available dates and additional details, visit phipps.conservatory.org.

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New Uniontown eatery offers up healthy and delicious options Story by Keren Lee Dreyer 31 year old Uniontown resident Garrett Larrow's love for downtown Uniontown is something he has carried from childhood up into his brand new Uniontown based business, Chop & Squeeze - a brightly decorated, healthful food and juice serving establishment that also has a few naughty selections on the menu. Chop & Squeeze, at 40 South West Street, is aptly named for its help-yourself selection of kale, mixed greens, iceberg lettuce, and spinach, along with unlimited toppings such as charred corn, cauliflower, grass fed steak, chicken, and for vegetarians, tofu, to name only a few of the full 25 topping selections. Hungry customer have their choice of 12 different made from scratch salad dressings to finish off their chop dish. Providing the squeeze are two commercial grade juicers ready to go with mint, raspberry, and pineapple, with different variations, Larrow said, adding “We're also going to do shakes with almond milk, vanilla milk, and they get mint or avocados. They'll be really delicious.” Rounding out the drink menu is an enticing selection of a black based tea, green based tea, fresca based drinks with ginger and chamomile, and fresh squeezed lemonade, orange juices, and shaken and muddled cold teas. Those with less than healthful cravings are in store for delectables such as fried twinkies, fried Oreos, and fried pickles with a nice tomato sauce, Larrow enthused. “There is homemade raspberry sauce, chocolate sauce, and in-house whipped cream as well.” As with every hand-crafted creation at Chop & Squeeze, “all will be made in front of the customer, right behind the glass.” Partnering with Larrow on the culinary side is long-time best friend Marc Dunn, who leads the Uniontown Chop & Squeeze location. Dunn's kitchen chops were honed through some years of leading kitchens, including in the Wilmington, North Carolina area where Dunn and Larrow both attended college. Larrow's own culinary experiences during his tenure in New York City are

the foundation for Chop & Squeeze's fresh food philosophy. Larrow explains that “I've been coding for a company that made its own wine on the premise, and does really good food. Living in New York really enlightened me to new flavors, fresh food, and different cul-

CABARET On his first night in Berlin, Cliff wanders into the Kit Kat Klub, a seedy nightclub overseen by the strange, omniscient and genderbending Master of Ceremonies, “the Emcee.” Here, Cliff meets Sally Bowles, a vivacious, talented cabaret performer, and an utterly lost soul. THIS SHOW IS INTENDED FOR MATURE AUDIENCES. It contains adult language, mature themes, and sexual situations.

February 8-10 at 7:30 p.m. February 11 at 2:30 p.m.

GEYER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Pittsburgh St., Scottdale geyerpac.com or 724-887-0887

tures of flavor.” While fresh, flavorful, and made to order in a quick fashion foods are Larrow's main goal, his business eye is open toward creating a greater good for the downtown Uniontown core. “One thing I'm doing is I'm going to donate a portion of the sales we make there (at Chop & Squeeze). I'm starting a fund and am trying to work with PNC so business owners will be able to take part in renovating buildings.” A number of former and current storefronts in downtown Uniontown include residential spaces above, including lofts and full family apartments, that are in need of renovation. Larrow cites the living space above another Uniontown business, Sew Special, at 75 West Main Street, as an example of a business with living quarters above that, once renovated, could be rented to individuals or families. With more people living downtown comes more foot traffic, which potentially makes the area more attractive to new or expanding businesses. “We need people living downtown again, that's the key. We can't depend on people to drive in” to support area businesses, Larrow said. “I'm set to talk with other businesses like Hardy's group (of 84 Lumber fame) and PNC. Hopefully, donating (money) myself will create a snowball effect and we'll be able to create something more concrete.” And along those concrete lines, Larrow's plans for future Chop & Squeeze locations include California, PA, Connellsville, and Wilmington, North Carolina. “It's really a pretty city down there, and I miss it” Larrow said. Feast your eyes on the Chop & Squeeze web site, created by Larrow, at chopsqueeze.com. There you can find out how to obtain a 10% Grand Opening coupon, along with information on downloading the order ahead app, also coded by Larrow himself. Find and friend Chop & Squeeze at facebook.com/chopsqueeze

PENNSYLVANIA BRIDGES - Arts, Entertainment, Education & Lifestyle - pabridges.com

AUDITIONS January 13, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. January 15, 7-9 p.m. Auditions for the comedy “Things My Mother Taught Me” will be held on Saturday, January 13 and Monday, January 15. Auditions will consist of cold reads from the script. Rick Bryant is directing. Synopsis: Olivia and Gabe are moving into their first apartment together.They've just packed up all of their belongings and driven halfway across the country, to start a new life together in Chicago.Their moving day doesn't go exactly as planned, though, and things become slightly more complicated when all of their parents show up to help! Can a two bedroom apartment contain all of the love, laughs, worry and wisdom that's about to happen? This brand new comedy from the author of Nana's Naughty Knickers takes a generational look at relationships, and how sometimes parents are passing their best lessons on to their children without even meaning to. Funny and touching, this one will make you laugh out loud and fall in love all over again. Casting for the following roles: Olivia Keegan - late 20s; energetic; neat; slightly OCD; an architect. Karen Keegan - late 50s-60s; Olivia's mother. Carter Keegan - 60s; Olivia's father. Gabe Lawson - late 20s; a writer; good-natured. Lydia Lawson - late 50s-60s; Gabe's mother. Wyatt Lawson - 60s; Gabe's father. MAX MIROWSKI - late 50s; Polish accent; building super; may be played by a man or woman.

THE OLD SCHOOLHOUSE P L AY E R S 20 WABASH AVE., HICKORY, PA 23

Remember When: This Month in History with Fred “Tomato” Terling: Ellis Island

Story by Fred Terling This Day in History: Jan. 1, 1892 Unless you are Native American, your lineage came from somewhere else. Some older roots may be planted after the discovery of America, some a much less stout family tree. Whichever the case, most of us had one or more family member pass through the gates of Ellis Island from 1892 to 1954. In fact, over 20 million new arrivals from other countries were processed during this timeframe. Today, over 100 million Americans, about one-third to 40 percent of the population of the United States, can trace their ancestry to immigrants who first arrived in America at Ellis Island. That wave of immigration, however started 35 years prior to the opening of Ellis Island. More than eight million immigrants arrived in New York City and processed through the Castle Garden Immigration Depot in Lower Manhattan. In April 1890, Congress appropriated $75,000 to construct the immigration station on Ellis Island that would open in the same year. All immigrants were to pass through a series of inspections before they would be granted entry. Primary Inspection Between 1905 and 1914, two-thirds of immigrants came in from eastern, southern and central Europe. The peak year was 1907 which processed just over one million immigrants. Following the Immigration Act of 1924, restrictions were put in place to limit the amount of processing at overseas embassies. The only immigrants to process through Ellis Island where those who had paperwork problems, displaced persons or war refugees. The immigrants who were approved

spent from two to five hours at Ellis Island. Primary inspection arrivals were asked 29 questions including name, occupation, and the amount of money carried. New arrivals were expected to be able to support themselves and have money to get started. The average required was between $18 and $25 dollars ($750 in 2017 adjusted for inflation). Those with visible health problems or diseases were sent home or held in the Island's hospital facilities. More than 3,000 would-be immigrants died on Ellis Island while being held in the hospital facilities. Some unskilled workers were rejected because they were considered “likely to become a public charge.” About 2% were denied admission to the U.S. and sent back to their countries of origin for reasons such as having a chronic contagious disease, criminal background or insanity. The Kissing Post is a wooden column outside the Registry Room, where new arrivals were greeted by their relatives and friends, typically with tears, hugs, and kisses. The Scar of Eugenics We commonly identify eugenics, or rather, eugenic purging as a sin of Nazi, Germany. However, decades before, eugenicists in the United States of the late 19th and early 20th century held the belief that reproductive selection should be carried out by the state as a collective decision. For many eugenicists, this was considered a patriotic duty as they held an interest in creating a greater national race. Henry Fairfield Osborn's opening

words to the New York Evening Journal in 1911 were, “As a biologist as well as a patriot...,” on the subject on advocating for tighter inspections of immigrants to the United States. Eugenic selection occurred on two distinguishable levels: State/Local levels which handle institutionalization and sterilization of those considered defective as well as the education of the public, marriage laws, and social pressures such as fitter family and better baby contests. Immigration control, the screening of immigrants for defects, was notably supported by Harry Laughlin, superintendent of the Eugenics Record Office from 1910 to 1939, who stated that this was where the “federal government must cooperate.” At the time, it was a broadly popular idea that immigration policies ought to be based off eugenics principles to help create a “superior race” in America. To do this, defective persons needed to be screened by immigration officials and denied entry on the basis of their disability. This of course came to impact Ellis Island in a big way as a current medical examination was a simple six second glance at immigrants walking up the ladder wells and receiving chalk marks on what their perceived illnesses may be. Many outsmarted the final inspectors by simply turning their coats inside out. With the passing of the Immigrant Quota Act of 1921, the number of immigrants being allowed into the United States declined greatly. The passing of

the bill ended the era of mass immigration. After 1924, Ellis Island became primarily a detention and deportation processing station. During and immediately following World War II, Ellis Island was used to hold German merchant mariners and “enemy aliens” who were Axis nationals detained for fear of spying, sabotage, and other fifth column activity. Unlike other wartime immigration detention stations, Ellis Island was designated as a permanent holding facility and was used to hold foreign nationals throughout the war. It was also a processing center for returning sick or wounded U.S. soldiers and a Coast Guard training base. Ellis Island still managed to process tens of thousands of immigrants per year during this time, but many fewer than the hundreds of thousands per year who arrived before the war. After the war, immigration rapidly returned to earlier levels. The Internal Security Act of 1950 barred members of communist or fascist organizations from immigrating to the United States. Ellis Island saw detention peak at 1,500, but by 1952, after changes to immigration laws and policies, only 30 detainees remained. In 1954, Ellis Island closed, but remains a popular tourist site. In 1982, President Ronald Reagan asked Lee Iacocca, then Chairman of Chrysler Corporation, to head a private sector effort to raise funds for the restoration and preservation of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation (SOLEIF) was founded. The Foundation's fundraising drive sparked a dramatic response. The American people contributed more than $700 million (and counting!) to the repair, restoration, and maintenance of these two monuments to freedom. All funds for the Foundation's projects have come from the American people, no government funds have been used. Some of the current projects and facilities that have come to fruition as a result of the ongoing funding: restoration efforts; The American Immigrant Wall of Honor®; American Family Immigration History Center® and Peopling of America Center®. For more information, including name searches, ship manifest documents and comprehensive genealogy help, follow this link to the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island free online resources website: www.libertyellisfoundation.org

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About Face with Tasha Oskey: New Year, New Skin! I can't believe it's 2018! With the new year just beginning, I know many of us are making new year's resolutions. It might be trying to lose weight or pursuing the career of your dreams. This is all well and good but don't forget about your skin. Now is the perfect time to make some beauty resolutions. January is the perfect month to do what I like to call a skin reset. If you have a skincare routine, now would be a good time to revamp it by incorporating new products or starting over by using the right products for your skin. How many of you have actually had a skin analysis done by a licensed esthetician? There's a good chance you may not know what your skin type is and the correct products to be using. The best way to find out is to get a facial where the esthetician will conduct a thorough skin analysis and then will recommend the right products for you. Knowing your skin type is not only important to using the right skincare, it's also helpful in terms of choosing the right makeup. Many foundations are made to correspond with your skin type. With any skincare regimen, consistency is key! That means following a skincare routine morning and night. Since I've been an esthetician, there are two things I hear the most from clients. I don't wear sunscreen all the time and sometimes I go to bed with my makeup on. These two things need to be addressed immediately because both can be really damaging to the skin. You need to wear SPF all year round even on cloudy days. The sun is the number one culprit for premature aging and no one is exempt from this. Going to bed with your makeup on is another big no no. Believe me I know what it's like to be tired and not want to wash off your makeup but you'll thank me later if you do. Leaving your makeup on overnight can clog your pores resulting in breakouts. There is even some research that shows sleeping with your makeup on repeatedly can cause premature aging. Your makeup holds on to free radicals in the environment which break down collagen leading to fine lines and wrinkles. No matter how tired you are at least

O PEN YOUR H EART & H OME

wash your makeup off. If you don't exfoliate, now is a great time to start. In my previous columns, I have mentioned the benefits of exfoliating. It's the best thing you can do at home to get rid of the dead skin cells that make the skin look dull and lifeless. Also, it helps any treatment products penetrate better. Applying moisturizer is also essential even if you have oily skin. Your skin needs daily hydration. If you have oily skin the tendency is to use products that strip oils from the skin or forgo moisturizer altogether. This can actually cause your skin to over-produce oil as a defense mechanism. Make sure your drinking enough water because it is so easy to become dehydrated and it definitely shows up on the skin. Eating healthier also helps the skin look and feel better. It's OK to indulge every now and then but a steady diet of foods high in sugar and sodium can lead to bloating and even a breakdown in skin elasticity. Getting a good night of sleep is so beneficial for having healthy skin. Please for the love of everything holy, stop picking at your face! If you need extractions leave it to a professional. An esthetician should know the proper way to extract. If you do it yourself you run the risk of permanently damaging the pore and even causing scarring. Speaking of breakouts, one reason you could be getting them is not cleaning your makeup brushes regularly. Makeup brushes hold all kinds of dirt and bacte-

ria so I recommend cleaning them with a brush cleaner once a week. Getting rid of any old or expired makeup and skincare products is great to do in the new year. This can be hard to do especially if you didn't get around to using the products but old products lose efficacy over time and carry bacteria. So this is the perfect time to do a complete overhaul of all your makeup and skincare products and start tossing. In my experience, it's not always easy to keep new year's resolutions but taking care of your skin should be one. After all, your skin is the largest organ of the body but sometimes is the most neglected. It's a new year so let's have a new outlook on skin. Happy New Year's! About Face with Tasha is a new, regular column devoted to all things pertaining to beauty and skincare. Tasha Oskey isa Licensed Esthetician and Skincare Specialist at Massage Envy in uptown Mt. Lebanon. Have a question about skincare? Email us at pennsylvaniabridges@gmail.com and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll pass it on to her.

PENNSYLVANIA BRIDGES - Arts, Entertainment, Education & Lifestyle - pabridges.com

The Southwestern Area Agency on Aging, Inc. is looking for individuals in your area to open their homes and offer a caring, safe, and nurturing family environment for eligible adults who cannot live independently due to physical, intellectual or age related impairments. Domiciliary Care Providers are typically individuals who open their homes and are willing to provide residents with housing, support, care and encouragement in a family-like setting.They are everyday people making a difference in their communities and in the lives of others. When you share your home and provide services, you receive $979.00 a month for each individual residing in your home. Services include meals, housekeeping, laundry, medication set up, scheduling and providing transportation to medical appointments. Domiciliary Care homes can accommodate 1-3 residents and are certified to meet the required fire, health and local zoning standards. If you are interested in becoming a certified Domiciliary Care provider and providing quality living alternative for a person who meets the criteria, or want to refer someone who will benefit from the programs services contact: Southwestern Pennsylvania Area Agency on Aging Domiciliary Care Program at 1-800-411-5655.

Tamelcoff captures Cash's trademark baritone voice, while his band delivers the infectious, driving rhythm of the Tennessee Three.

NOW PLAYING! Saturday, January 6 at 8 p.m. DEAN LIVES - $35, $45, $55, $65, $76, $87; $110 Pit Gold VIP Meet & Greet Ticket DEAN LIVES - A Musical Salute starring world renowned Las Vegas headliner, Drew Anthony and backed by a swingin' 12-piece orchestra. From the early days with Jerry Lewis, to the thrill of Las Vegas...the story of Dean's musical career is told through the heartfelt memories of life-long friend, the lovable ol' theater caretaker. And, Dean's not leaving out his famous friends! Audiences will get belly-laughs when actors portraying Jerry Lewis visit, and later Johnny Carson and Marilyn Monroe - giving us a wildly entertaining take on Dean's “Rat Pack” years. Peggy Lee then exposes how Dean gave Hollywood “Fever”! Friday, January 19 at 8 p.m. & Saturday, January 20 at 8 p.m. - GET THE LED OUT - $28, $35 Utilizing the multi-instrumentalists at their disposal, GTLO re-creates the songs of Led Zeppelin in all their depth and glory with the studio overdubs that Zeppelin themselves never performed. No wigs or fake English accents, GTLO brings a high energy Zeppelin concert with an honest, heart-thumping intensity. The set list varies each night with some of Zeppelin's bigger hits performed in both shows. Saturday, January 27 at 8 p.m. CASH UNCHAINED: THE ULTIMATE JOHNNY CASH TRIBUTE - I've Been Everywhere Tour 2018 -W ith a special tribute to Patsy Cline by Cathi Rhodes - $20, $25, $30 Take a journey back in time to the life and music of “The Man in Black” performed by Cash Unchained. Steady like a train, sharp like a razor, with the perfect blend of country, rock 'n' roll, and folk music, Cash paved the way for artists of all genres for years to come. Performed by some of the finest musicians in the state of Virginia, James

Wednesday, January 31 at 7:30 p.m. - ABBA MANIA - $49.50 floor seating only ($5 additional at the door) ABBA MANIA re-creates one of the world's finest pop groups in a live stage performance. This highly polished and professional production was created in 1999 and has toured the globe, enjoying remarkable success, with ticket sales for most venues selling out long before the show hits town. You'll be “having the time of your life” with such hits as “Mamma Mia”, “Voulez Vous”, “Dancing Queen”, “Winner Takes It All”, and “Super Trouper.” Friday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m. ELVIS TRIBUTE ARTIST SPECTACULAR STARRING RYAN PELTON - $25, $35, $45, $60 The Ryan Pelton ELVIS Tribute Show is an era-by-era tribute concert celebrating the music and magic of Elvis Presley, the greatest entertainer of all time. The concert features a live orchestra and begins with the early rock-a-billy songs, the military years, the movie years, the '68 comeback special in black leather and closes with the Las Vegas concert years. Saturday, February 3 at 7 p.m. DONNIE IRIS - 75th ANNIVERSARY BASH - $24, $38.50, $48.50, $74 Rock musician Donnie Iris, best known for his number-one hit The Rapper with The Jaggerz in 1970 and many great songs with Donnie Iris and The Cruisers during the 1980s, will celebrate his 75th birthday with a concert at The Palace Theatre. Tuesday, February 6 at 7:30 p.m. - 3 DOORS DOWN ACOUSTIC - BACK PORCH JAM - $39.75, $49.75, $65 ($5/$5.25 additional per ticket day of show); VIP Packages available 3 Doors Down has announced plans to stage the “Back Porch Jam” Tour, an acoustic interpretation of the band's hits, fan favorites and deep album cuts. Formed in 1995, Grammy Award®-nominated multiplatinum Mississippi rock band 3 Doors Down consistently captivates audiences worldwide. Their albums have topped the charts with songs such as “Kryptonite,” “When I'm Gone” and “Here Without You.”

THE PALACE THEATRE 34 W.Otterman Street, Greensburg

Box Office: 724-836-8000 26

thepalacetheatre.org

Pastor Dawn Hargraves: One Dress at a Time I have many nieces and nephews. One of them had a fundraiser selling magazines. I ordered Good Housekeeping. I flipped through the pages checking out the latest seal of approval item and perhaps a recipe. The December issue, I believe, had focused on several Good Housekeeping seal of approval charities and they did some short write ups on them. I breezed through the Dressember write up. It was a very brief read, not even a half page article. I moved on to look for what would catch my eye on subsequent pages. I thought I was done with Dressember. In fact, I thought I was so done with the whole magazine that it went to the recycling right after I read it, early in November. But the Dressember story and purpose nagged at me. Nagged at me until November 28th, when I decided, okay, I will do this. What is “this” Dressember? Dressember is the commitment to wear a dress every day in December to raise awareness about human trafficking. This is modern day slavery, both labor and sex. There are numbers that are staggering that include women, children and men that are trafficked. The United States is not free from this atrocity. Dressember is an organization that raises awareness, raises funds, and does training, rescuing, recovery and counseling, and more. So, on December 1 I put on a dress and went to work. That was Friday and things are casual on Friday. I was complimented on my dress and said, “Dressember.” It was the beginning of weeks of opportunities to talk about the issue of human trafficking with the greatest day happening on the coldest day in 2017 because when it is 17 degrees, a dress gets noticed and not because it looks nice. The decision on November 28th included my becoming an advocate as well. Once I learned that Dressember supports rescue and recovery efforts I set a goal to raise $350 dollars. I really figured I could ask my family for support and then come up with three hun-

dred dollars. However, as God would have it, the hearts of those in my church family heard about Dressember. Soon some mini flyers were passed around along with some email reminders and One Dress at a Time went above the goal set by 20 percent. (note, the month isn't done yet at the time of this writing) Not to mention I was thankful for the dresses given to me and for the selection at our Care and Share shop so I didn't have to wear the same six dresses all month. Why would I write about this? Well, sometimes we need to know that we can make a difference. What nags at you to do something positive about it? This is what gives you purpose. Where in our community or country are you able to give of your time or money? Need an idea, contact me. Be kind. It will make your life better and another's life better too. Peace and grace, Pastor Dawn Pastor Dawn is the pastor at California United Methodist Church, which participates in the Good Eats Ministry. The Good Eats Feeding Ministry intends to provide food for school age children of the California PA Area school District for over the weekend. Monetary donations are used 100% to purchase food to fill bags for school age students. Last year approximiately 71 students received support monthly throughout the school year. For more information, or to donate to the program, visit gofundme.com/goodeats-feeding-ministry. Services are held at California United Methodist Church each Sunday at 10 a.m. at 227 Third Street in California. All are welcome!

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Applications being accepted for Three Rivers Art Festival through 1/16/18 The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is officially accepting applications for participants in the 59th annual Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival, June 1-10, 2018. The nation's premier free, community arts festival seeks a diverse group of visual and performing artists of all disciplines and career stages. The festival attracts half a million visitors annually to enjoy an extensive array of music, performance, visual arts, crafts/art-making activities and a renowned Artist Market. This year's call for visual and performing artists welcomes artists and performers who have never before participated in Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival, emphasizing brand new art and original work. Applications will be accepted from October 2, 2017, through January 16, 2018. Application status notifications will be sent to all applicants in late March of 2018. Travel + Leisure named Pittsburgh one of the Best Places to Travel in 2016, stating “the Steel City is reforging itself into the Arts City.” Thrillist listed Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival in Every Outdoor Concert Worth Attending In Pittsburgh This Summer. The 10-day arts celebration in downtown Pittsburgh has grown to attract local, regional, national and international artist participation, showcasing a broad spectrum of works and talent. In 2018, artists will have the opportunity to explore the following opportunities: Artist Market presented by Peoples Featuring 350+ independent artists selling handmade work in an open-air setting, the Artist Market is attended by hundreds of thousands of visitors. The show is ranked among the nation's best by Sunshine Artist Magazine, offers $10,000 in cash awards, and features a new selection jury in a wide variety

of media. Juried Visual Art Exhibition Showcasing exceptional new art by regional artists (150-mile radius) in various stages of their careers, and in a variety of media, the JVAE delivers highquality visual arts to Festival fans in an indoor gallery setting. The jury process is “blind” and cash awards go to the best in show and jurors' top picks. Emerging Artist Scholarship Program Established in 2002, the Emerging Artist Scholarship Program of the Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival provides individuals the opportunity to take an important first step towards a future in fine art and craft shows. The program supports the growth and longevity of fine arts and fine crafts in the Pittsburgh region with a special devotion to introducing new art forms to the Festival and new audiences to emerging artists. Music & Performing Arts Musicians, dancers, actors, literary, and performance artists from around the region and globe present original work on stages and in spaces throughout the Festival, including Point State Park, Gateway Center, and the Cultural District. Special Project / Collaboration Creative original concepts, multidisciplinary work, and multi-artist collaborations leave lasting impressions with visitors each year. The Festival's geographic

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footprint and artists' imaginations are the only bounds for proposals. About Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival The Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival, a production of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, is a 10-day celebration of the arts in downtown Pittsburgh unlike any other in the nation. This worldclass, multi-disciplinary festival is free to attend and open to the public. Attracting over 500,000 visitors annually, the Festival begins on the first Friday in June and takes place at the confluence of Pittsburgh's famed three rivers in Point State Park, throughout picturesque Gateway Center, and in the city's world-renowned Cultural District. Now in its 58th year, the Festival's loyal visitors have enjoyed an extensive array of music, performance, visual arts, crafts/art-making activities and a renowned Artist's Market featuring over 300 artists from around the country. Artists are selected through a rigorous jury process-emphasizing quality, craftsmanship, and presentation in a wide variety of media, from jewelry to painting, woodworking to photography. The programming line-up for the 59th annual Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival will be announced in the spring of 2018. Applications will be accepted until January 16, 2018. To learn more about the submission categories and to apply, visit www.TrustArts.org/TRAF or call (412) 456-6666.

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THIRD THURSDAY: PHOTOGRAPHY January 18 from 8-11 p.m. Snap to it and get funky at January's Third Thursday! Take a deep dive into photography and then shake it like a Polaroid at a STRANGEWAYS dance party! We've got a plan for your cold winter night: Explore William Henry Fox Talbot and the Promise of Photography (these are majorly old photos!) with curator Dan Leers Discussions with the archivists of the Teenie Harris Archives in Teenie Harris Photographs: In Their Own Voice Make and take unique photography activities Tours of the photography in our collection Polaroid photo booth with Pittsburgh street-style photographer Chancelor Humphrey of Keep Pittsburgh Dope Warming up and getting down with STRANGEWAYS Late night snacks and drinks will be available for purchase from The Café Carnegie. The CMOA collection will be open to explore all night long! Carnegie Museum of Art, 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh Early-Bird Tickets: $10 (Members $8; Students $5) FMI: cmoa.org 27

BENTLEYVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY 931 Main St. in Bentleyville washlibs.org/bentleyville

CALIFORNIA PUBLIC LIBRARY 100 Wood St., California calpublib.org

CITIZENS LIBRARY JANUARY 2017 ACTIVITIES

Every Monday at 10 a.m. is STORY TIME with Ellen, a retired elementary librarian. Ellen presents a fresh Story Time every Monday at 10 a.m. and Story Time with Kristen and Friends is presented on select Saturdays at 10 a.m. Each Story Time includes a snack & craft. Story Time is open to any child with a desire to learn and play. Reservations are recommended. The California Recreation Authority sponsors Saturday Story Time. FMI: Call 724-938-2907. The Bentleyville Public Library has moved to a temporary location at the Fairway Communications building at 608 Main Street, Bentleyville. Make It Monday Stop by from noon till 7:30 for a stand alone activity every Monday that you can make yourself. (STEM Activity) Every Tuesday TOPS 5-5:30 weigh-in 5:30 -6:15 Meeting Weight loss group Coffee & Crayons Every Friday at 10:30 a.m. Stop by and color with the community bring your own coloring book or try one of ours. Lego Club the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at 5:30 for ages 7 and up Jan. 8 Bentleyville Historical Society meets at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 9 Board Meeting Board meets the second Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 15 CLOSED Jan. 17 Family Craft Night open to all ages 5:30 p.m. Every third Wednesday of the month. Please register by calling the library 724-239-5122 Jan. 18 Book Club (reading Lilac Girls by Martha Kelly) at 6:00 p.m. Jan 29 Friends of Bentleyville Library Help support the library and plan fun events 6:30 p.m. Extra, extra! The Bentworth Community Center received a donation from the Bentleyville Senior Center of $2,210 towards the building project.The Bentleyville Senior Center held a spaghetti dinner to raise the money.The Bentworth Community Center will house not only the Bentleyville Senior Center but also the Bentleyville Public Library and the Bentleyville Area Historical Society when Phase I is completed in the early spring of 2018. FMI: Call us at 724-239-5122.

CHARTIERS-HOUSTON LIBRARY 730 West Grant St., Houston washlibs.org/chartiers-houston TAG:Teen Advisory Group meets First Saturday of every month at 12 noon. Are you in grades 6-12? Want to earn volunteer hours in the company of your friends? Join our Teen Advisory Group and meet once a month to brainstorm ideas about programs you’d like to see in the library, books you’d want to recommend, or projects you and other volunteers could help the library complete. “Brainfood”, aka, snacks, will be provided and the library Wii video games, and board games will be made available at each meeting. Looking for crafting buddies to inspire your creative projects? Come to our monthly crafterdays. Here we welcome crafters of all kinds to sit and knit, crochet, or even paper mache in the company of other creative crafters. Each crafterday will also include printed instructions and a live demo on how to make a simple craft. Event held 3rd Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. Join our Lego club on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month. The program is open to all ages, although it is recommended for ages 5 and up.The library is also accepting donations of new or gently used Lego sets. Wednesdays at 6 p.m. “Shut Up & Write” This is a venue for writers to work in the company of other writers on a regular basis. First Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m. Join our Mystery Book Club for a riveting read and book discussion. Register at the library or call us at 724-745-4300.

JJan. 8 from 6-8 p.m. - Come join Cheryl Hopper, a local fiber artist, and friends who would like to share their love of crochet. Bring your crochet and let us share our work and have an evening of friendship and crochet. If you would like to learn how to crochet come we would love to teach you. If you have questions call 724-747-0220. Jan. 15 - CLOSED Teen Time Tuesdays from 4:30 p.m. 6 p.m. Come hang out, play games, use our Maker Space, & more. New activities every week. For grades 6 and up. Middle Grade Book Club Thursdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Discuss books, make a craft, and eat some pizza. For grades 6-8. Every Friday in the Children's depart-

ment there are crafts to make or activities to do. Stop by any time for these drop in activities, no sign ups required. Monthly Chess Club Meets the first Saturday of the month from 10-11:30 a.m., and is open to all ages and all levels of play. Instructors will be available. Chess Club is free, and is open to all ages, including adults. LEGO Club will meet on the 2nd and 4th Mons, from 5-6 p.m.The program is open to all ages, and there are sets of larger building blocks for children who are too young for regular sized Lego bricks.The Children’s Dept. is also accepting donations of new or gently used LEGO sets. CitiBooks, a used books bookstore in the lower level of the library, is open from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.Tues & Wed; 10 a.m to 6 p.m.Thurs; & 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat. CitiBooks is staffed by volunteers & all proceeds benefit the library. To volunteer, email friendsofcitizenslibrary@gmail.com. Citizen’s Library is located at 55 South College Street,Washington, PA 15301. Phone # is 724-222-2400 FMI: washlibs.org/citizens

FREDERICKTOWN AREA LIBRARY 38 WATER ST., FREDERICKTOWN WEBSITE: washlibs.org/fredericktown PHONE: 724-377-0017 The Book Buddies Book Club will not meet this month. The Library will be closed January 15th for Martin Luther King Jr. Day Library Board of Trustees will meet Wed. January 17th at 6:30 p.m. at the library. Reading Club will meet on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the library. Call the library to register your child. Discovery Detectives will meet the 4th Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the library. Call the library to register your child. Teen Book Club will meet the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the library. Call to register. SIT N KNIT/CROCHET will meet the second and fourth Thursday of the month. Beginner through expert is wel-

come. Rep. Pam Snyder's Community Outreach staff is at the library every third Tuesday of each month from 11 a.m. 3 p.m.. Just stop in! No appointment needed. Would you like to be a powerful advocate for the Fredericktown Area Public Library? We are looking for a few good men and women who would like to serve as library trustees. If interested just stop in the library. Our underwriters for January are BCR Lions Club for underwriting the cost of our Internet service for one year and 1st Stepp Family Chiropractic for underwriting the cost of January Story Hour.

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ROSTRAVER PUBLIC LIBRARY 700 Plaza Drive, Belle Vernon rostraverlibrary.org

PETERS TOWNSHIP LIBRARY January Activities ptlibrary.org

MONESSEN PUBLIC LIBRARY 326 Donner Ave., Monessen monessenlibrary.org

Free Monday Movie Matinee. Stop by the library on the first Monday of each month at 1:00pm for the viewing of a newly released film to DVD. Popcorn and water are provided. Friends of the Library Monthly meetings are held at 6:30pm on the 4th Monday of each month. Knitting at the Library meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at 1 p.m. & the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Contact: Judy Yoskosky Afternoon Book Club meets the 2nd Wednesday of each Month at 1 p.m. Contact: Judy Wasko Every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.Tiny Tykes Program For kids ages 18 months-3 years old. Please call 724-379-5511 to register.

Tiny Tunes Music Mondays at 11 a.m. Ages: 2½ 5 with an adult.Tiny Tunes Music is a fun, casual program of playing with and learning about music. Book Babies Tues at 10 a.m. Birth-12 months with an adult. Mother Goose Storytime Tues at 11 a.m. Ages: 12 24 months with an adult. They're just learning to talk -give them something to talk about. Toddler Tales Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Ages: 2 3½ with an adult. Wii Sports for Adults Every Wednesday Stay active in the comfort of your library. No registration required. Kindergarten Storytime Thursdays at 10 a.m. & 1:15 p.m. Ages: Kindergartners and 5-year-olds.This full-hour program goes the next step in learning and loving reading. Register at the Youth Services Desk. Coloring, Coffee & Classics 9:15 a.m. For ages 18 and up. Every Wednesday in Café Lee. Enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee. Drop In Chess Tues at 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Every Tues in Café Lee. Drop in with a partner and challenge yourselves to a game or two of chess. FMI, call 724-941-9430.

As part of the new Monessen Public Library & Cultural Center Author Series, the Library will host two authors in January. A. J. Dudley, formerly of Belle Vernon, will hold a book signing on Saturday, January 6, from 1-4 p.m.. "The Feather" is her first novel in a new series entitled "Raven Crest". It is an historical fiction book that takes place on a small island in the Irish Sea called the Isle of Man.The books can be purchased through the website at www.RavenCrest.com. On January 27 , Heidi Ruby Miller will present "Paths to Publication", a discussion of how she went from a travel writer to novelist. She uses research for her stories as her excuse to roam the globe. Monessen Public Library & Cultural Center will be closed January 15. Due to the Martin Luther King Holiday, on January 15, the Mon Valley Genealogy Forum will not meet in January. The Monessen Crochet/Knitting Club will meet on Wednesday, January 10 and 24, at 6 p.m.. Children's activities for January include: Saturday, January 6 -- Old Rock Day: learn about rocks and fossils, 11 a.m.. Monday, January 8 - Static Electricity Day experiments, 6 p.m.. Toddler Tuesday, January 9 - Milk Day experiments: Bring an apron or smock, 1 p.m.. Saturday, January 13 - National Dress Up Your Stuffed Animal Day, 11 a.m. Toddler Tuesday, January 16 - A. A. Milne's Birthday:Winnie the Pooh STEM activity, 1 p.m.. Saturday, January 20 - National Eye Health Month: Optical illusions, 11 a.m.. Monday, January 22 - Family Movie Night with popcorn, 6 p.m.. Toddler Tuesday, January 23 Opposite Day with magnets, 1 p.m.. Saturday, January 27 - International Holocaust Remembrance Day, 11 a.m.. Monday, January 29 - Backwards Day, 6 p.m.. Please check our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts for up to date information and photos of Library events!

JOHN K.TENER LIBRARY 638 Fallowfield Ave. Charleroi washlibs.org/john-k-tener Craft days for kids. A new craft will be available the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month. FMI about the John K.Tener Library in Charleroi, call 724-483-8282.

BROWNSVILLE FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY 100 SENECA ST., BROWNSVILLE WEBSITE: bfpl.org/ PHONE: 724-785-7272 The Brownsville Free Public Library provides more than books and DVDs. We also provide: Access to a collection of approximately 900,000 items across three counties Free internet, computers,WiFi, and one-on-one computer classes Résumé software and résumé paper Audiobooks and eBooks at no charge through the Libby and OverDrive app Over 375 six-week long online cours-

es through GALE, with courses ranging from personal enrichment through workforce development Various children's and adult programming throughout the year Low cost prints, copies, and faxes Local history and genealogy collection Most importantly, you can get your library card free of charge if you live within Fayette,Washington, or Greene County!

LOCAL LIBRARIES, LEND US YOUR NEWS. Is your local library having a special event or fundraiser? Are you having a guest speaker or author reading/signing? Do you offer story hours, tech help and/or classes? Are you having a used book sale? Send us your news. There is NEVER A FEE to list library activities in our pages. Send your library news to carla@pabridges.com or call 724-769-0123.

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DONORA PUBLIC LIBRARY 510 Meldon Avenue in Donora washlibs.org/donora

Storytime with Miss Angie (Preschool ages) Friday's at 10 a.m. Please join us at the Donora Public Library for Storytime with Miss Angie, geared for preschool ages. Ladies Bridge Club meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday's of each month from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Knit and Crochet Club meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday's of each month from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00p .m. Book Club (Adults) meets the 3rd Thursday of each month from 3:30p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Lion's Club Meeting meet the 3rd Monday each month at 6:00 p.m. Monongahela Valley Community Band meets every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. The Donora Public Library will partner with the Southwestern Goodwill to host a donation drive.We are once again asking anyone and everyone in the community to bring in any unwanted household items and books you no longer need or want.

SAVE THE DATE FOR Cal Uâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Upcoming Shows 2017-2018 SEASON

Almost, Maine The Blaney Theatre March 1, 2, 3, 2018 @ 7 p.m., March 3, 2018 @ 2 p.m. This show explores gender, sexuality, discrimination, and bullying issues and introduces the concepts of civic responsibility and the nature of the human condition. High schoolers are welcome. Heathers: The Musical Steele Hall Mainstage Theatre April 12, 13, 14, 2018 @ 7 p.m., April 14, 2018 @ 2 p.m. This laugh-outloud musical comedy unapologetically explores issues of teen suicide, murder, bullying, homophobia, and gun violence. following the performance. Suitable for high school students. Cognitive Distortions: Spring Dance Concert 2018 Steele Hall Mainstage May 3, 4, 5, 2018 @ 7 p.m. Join student and faculty dancers and choreographers as they explore the communicative aspects of the body. Open to all ages of students interested in dance; and to high school students studying psychology, physical and mental health, and society and cultures. FMI: calu.edu

JANUARY EVENTS AT THE FRANK SARRIS PUBLIC LIBRARY For a complete listing of events, please visit the Frank Sarris Library's website at www.franksarrislibrary.org, on the Event page, or call 724-745-1308 for more information.The Library will be closed on Monday January 15th in observance of Martin Luther King Day. Ongoing Events Lego Club Mondays 5-6pm Children in grades K-8 collaborate with other Master Builders on their own designs or special building challenges. Family Night (beginning 1/16) Tuesdays at 6:30pm Come join the fun at our all ages evening story hour with stories, games and activities to share. Table Top Gaming Wednesdays 3-6pm With more than twenty games to choose from, we invite you and your friends to stop by and play a few! If you can't make this organized playing time, feel free to stop by anytime to play. Fiction Book Club Adults join us as we discuss a book selected by the book club members. Stop by the adult circulation desk to pick up your copy. New members are welcome! . Of Dice and Men Roleplaying Games Saturdays at 2pm Weekly, tabletop, roleplaying gaming sessions; we play a variety of games, most notably Dungeons & Dragons and Call of Cthulhu. For Teens and adults; newcomers should come an hour early to set up characters for play. Computer Instruction Designated library staff will provide one-on-one computer help by appointment only. Call the library at 724-745-1308 for more information or to sign up for an appointment. Page Turners (High School Students) Book Club Join us for the Page Turners next book club meeting. New members are welcome. . Upcoming Events Wednesday 1/3 Teen Advisory Board 6-7pmStudents in grades 7 12 meet monthly to plan, organize and lead activities that will engage and benefit members of the community. If you are a student who is interested in making a difference in your community, stop by the meeting or call Beth Kairush,Teen Advisory Board coordinator, at 724745-1308 for more information. Wednesday 1/10 Fiction Book Club

12-1pm New members are always welcome! This month we are reading Louise Penny's Still Life. Wednesday 1/17 Teen Writers' Club 6-7pm Are you a student in grades 7 12 who enjoys writing? Whether you enjoy writing fiction, poetry, short stories or more, stop by to meet like-minded teens. Email questions to Beth Kairush, Teen Advisory Board coordinator, at bkairush@franksarrislibrary.org. Tuesday 1/23 Non Fiction Book Club 2pm Non Fiction Book Club will meet Tuesday Jan 23rd at 2pm.We are reading Dark Money-The Hidden History of the Billionaires Behind the Rise of the Radical Right by Jane Mayer. Coming Soon to Your Library Open Mic Poetry Calling all poets aged 13 and up and those that enjoy poetry. In the first quarter of 2018, the library will have an open mic all about poetry. Registration will be required for those wishing to present a poem. Refreshments will be served. Escape Room Adventure The library is bringing an escape room like experience to Canonsburg. Adventurers will have the opportunity to crack codes, discover clues and solve puzzles with family and friends. On two Saturdays during the first quarter of 2018, we plan to offer two separate experiences one geared towards families with elementary aged students and one for those ages 12 and up. More from Your Library Accelerated Reader Canon-McMillan students can earn Accelerated Reading points at the library.We have a computer reserved in the Children's Department exclusively for testing. Ancestry Resources Come to the library to take advantage of our subscription to Ancestry.com and get started researching your family tree you can search billions of census, immigration, military records and more! Art on Display in the Athena Sarris Gallery Visit the second floor of the library regularly to enjoy the exhibits provided by talented local artists and photographers. If you're an artist interested in displaying your work in this venue, please visit our website or stop

in to get an application. Comics Plus Through the library's website, Frank Sarris Public Library cardholders can access thousands of digital graphic novels and comics. Patrons have anytime, anywhere access with Web-connected devices such as tablets, PCs, and smartphones. Continuing Education from Universal Class Check out Typing and Keyboarding 101, Introduction to Gardening, Interview Skills and the other 500+ continuing education courses available at no cost through our website all you need is a library card! Digital Magazines from Zinio The Frank Sarris Public Library is the only location in the area to provide this resource, and we offer a selection of more than 40 titles. Gently Used Books for Sale Our used book sale is ongoing and new titles are being added all the time...you can replenish your bookshelves for just $5 per bag or buy individual books for $0.25, $0.50 or $1.00. Playaway Launchpad Collection Playaway Launchpad is a pre-loaded tablet designed for a circulation environment.We have Launchpads for children, teens and adults.The Launchpads for children are pre-loaded with highquality learning apps and are available in many subjects.The teen and adult Launchpads include some instructional apps, brain games and trivia. OverDrive Borrow eBooks, audiobooks and Read-Along eBooks anytime, anywhere all you need is your library card. Use your smartphone, tablet or computer to enjoy one of the 1,700+ titles in the WAGGIN collection! Young Explorer Kits Thanks to the Grable Foundation's generous funding of the Young Library Explorers program, we now have a total of 69 kits for infants, toddlers, and elementary school aged (through fourth grade) children. These themed kits are filled with ageappropriate educational toys and other materials, and they are available to borrow. Stop by the Adult Circulation desk to borrow a Kit.

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On the Road with Bob Willis: Still Steaminâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; - The Cumbres and Toltec Railroad I love train travel and have been fortunate to have ridden some of the world's great trains here in the US, across Canada, in South America and Europe. I'm especially fond of steam trains though they're becoming more rare each year. Last year, I had the opportunity to ride one of those great steam train excursions, aboard the Cumbres & Toltec narrow gauge Heritage Railroad...formerly the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railway. To steam rail fans, this is almost a sacred heritage. It's an honest to goodness piece of Americana and boasts of being America's highest and longest coal fired, steam operated, narrow gauge railroad. Originally, it was built as a narrow gauge railway with tracks 3 feet apart because sharper curves were possible than with standard gauge 4 feet, 8 1/2" tracks. Historically, the railroad traces its' history back to 1870 when the Denver and Rio Grande Railway Company was incorporated in the Colorado and New Mexico territories for the purpose of building a railroad from Denver to El Paso, following the Rio Grande River, and then on to Mexico City. In addition, six branches were planned extending to Colorado's mining towns with another branch heading west to Salt Lake City. Track was first laid, south from Alamosa in 1880. To put that date in perspective, Sitting Bull was 41 years old that year and the famous Gunfight at OK Corral was still a year in the future. In its beginning, the railroad carried livestock, lumber, coal oil and passengers The line did well until the decline of silver mining in the 1890's. By 1960 more highways, automobiles and slower trips by rail led to the abandonment of the line and the last train to Durango ran in 1968. However, there was still interest in preserving this portion of the western heritage and in 1970, authorities in Colorado and New Mexico purchased the track between Antonito and Chama. The first tourist began running in 1973. Today, the northern terminus is Antonito Colorado, a short pumpkin toss from the New Mexico border ; it's a small town that was a company town of the former railroad main line. It's home

nus. This allows passengers to take a one way trip across the entire line with a charter bus return, or a round trip to Osier and back, to either end. Cumbres and Toltec offers passengers three classes of service; Coach Class, considered budget friendly offers bench seating and, as with all classes, an opportunity to get closer to nature on the Open Air Gondola. The next level of service is Tourist Class offering individual seating aboard newly restored cars. And, finally, Parlor Car Class is a touch more elegant with Victorian-era charm. to the company's car shop, a water tank, station and gift shop. Chama New Mexico, the southern terminus houses one of the most complete railroad yards, dating back to the heyday of the steam railroads in America. The yard itself is very popular with railroad aficionados. Today, the excursion travels from Antonito to Chama and back. The 64 mile excursion though the Rockies climbs to 10,016 feet at Cumbres Pass; all along the route, you'll be treated to views of steep gorges, sheer cliffs, broad valleys with cattle ranches. It was interesting to see the train being followed by autos racing between vantage points and crossings with drivers

jumping out, shooting a few pictures, then scurrying to the next "photo op." Onboard hosts along the way offer picture taking opportunities and point out interesting sites as we passed by. Seven days a week during the season, the 2018 schedule begins May 26th and continues through late October. In addition to the regularly scheduled excursions, there are a number of special and holiday events offered throughout the season. Excursions depart at 10 AM from both Antonito and Chama ; trains meet at the mid-point of the trip at the railroad depot at Osier where luncheon is served. Passengers then return to either termi-

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There's also a snack bar offering beverages, souvenirs and snacks as the name implies. Regardless of the class you choose, you'll have a great time. In a few cases we noticed three generations of a single family enjoying the trip...some folks recalling the days of steam trains and third generation children thrilled firsthand by the sights and sounds of a steam fired locomotive. Traveling from north to south, from Antonito, I opted to overnight in Chama and slept soundly at the Ekhorn Lodge, a friendly and rustic motel just a short hop from the terminal. In addition to the regularly scheduled excursions, there are a number of special and holiday events offered throughout the season. You can book online or by calling 1888-286-2737 www.cumbrestoltec.com Story & Photos by Bob Willis After being bitten by the travel bug, Bob was never cured. As a travel writer/photographer, radio and TV travel host, he has carried cameras to every continent, more than 85 countries and across the Atlantic more than 350 times. Email him at bobfwillis@yahoo.com