Pennsylvania Bridges January 2019 - New Year, New You!

Pennsylvania

BRIDGES

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 9 E d itio n

FR E E

Connecting Our Communities

N e w Ye a r , N e w Yo u !

Pennsylvania

BRIDGES Pennsylvania Bridges is published online at

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Pennsylvania Bridges is...

Carla E. Anderton, Editor-in-Chief Fred Terling, Managing Editor Hayley Martin, Associate Editor Chuck Brutz, Staff Writer Keren Lee Dreyer, Staff Writer Pastor Dawn Hargraves, Columnist Reanna Roberts, Columnist Contributors: Jennifer Benford, Lisa J. Buday, Noah Churchel, Christine Haines, Dr. Michele Pagen, Mark Pawelec, Kelly Tunney, Missy Tunney, Bruce Wald, Ashley Wise, Dave Zuchowski & Daniel Zyglowicz Have a story idea?

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Get in touch with us at (724) 769-0123 e-mail: carla@pabridges.com We’re also on Facebook facebook.com/ pennsylvaniabridges

N O TA B L E & Q U O TA B L E

My New Year’s Resolution: Get More Exercise!

I’m back! I don’t know if you noticed my monthly musings have not appeared in the last few issues of Pennsylvania Bridges, but I want to thank you for your patience with my absence as I had to put them temporarily on hold. I spent the last few months adjusting to a new, much busier schedule and an increased workload that left me with limited time to do any writing of my own. As much as I cherished the experience, I’m grateful for a short break and an opportunity to recharge and reconnect with friends, family, and you, loyal readers of Pennsylvania Bridges. I missed the opportunity to put my thoughts down on paper and share them with you.

Speaking of what’s on my mind, it’s a subject I know is on yours, as well. As the new year approaches, many of us find ourselves thinking of resolutions we’d like to keep in the coming months, of ways we’d like to improve ourselves.

Mine are as follows. After a long semester spent grabbing too many quick bites at Burger King between my classes, one of my resolutions is to improve my eating habits by choosing healthier options and packing my lunch at home more often than not. This will require me to step up my game in the kitchen, which I am, to date, not known for.

I’m also hoping to find ways to get more exercise, and not just the physical kind. I’m searching for ways to exercise my mind, whether it’s by visiting more museums, attending more cultural events, adding to my overall base of knowledge, or learning new skills.

Know an exhibit I should visit, a play I should see, a book I should read, or a video I should watch? Email me at carla@pabridges.com or leave a com-

ment on our Facebook page.

Above all, I hope to exercise more kindness toward my fellow man, and less anger in general. I will seek to accomplish this by remembering that every single person I meet - whether it’s a student in my classroom or a clerk at my local Walmart - is facing a struggle I know nothing about. I realize that’s a cliche, but it rings no less true. And, when I do encounter hostility or rudeness, I will remind myself that I have a choice as to how to respond, with unkindness or with dignity, grace, and compassion.

May I challenge all of you to make a similar effort to find ways to treat others with more civility in the year ahead.

On a final note, we at Pennsylvania Bridges wish you and yours a joyous and prosperous new year.

Until next month, Carla E. Anderton Editor-in-Chief

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“Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed.”

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Happy New Year!

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.

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Email us. We want to hear your voice. Get in touch.

On the cover: Pastor Amory Merriman of the United Christian Church welcomes new member Cheryl Barath. Photo courtesy of the church’s Facebook page.

***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.

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Area Dad on Campus: One local man shares his inspirational journey from enrollment to graduation Story by Joseph Phillips I decided to go to school for technical skills. I had a BA in English for creative writing, and I used my writing and observation skills in healthcare service management and did that for eight challenging years. I performed well, but my technical skills did not improve. My concise inspection reports that had helped clients were feeding an operation manual. I helped replace my position with software and technical documents.

That was the goal, and I knew that going into the work. It happened so gradually I didn’t notice. I had two young kids who needed a working dad. I made the decision to go back to college to earn a technical certificate or a degree, and my family supported my decision.

I chose to enroll at Cal U, a great school that was also within driving distance. I would use a drone to learn about robotics and use the drone to take great aerial photography, and maybe work for a production crew. In my spare time, I created oil paintings and imagined myself working in a garage, painting, fixing drones, and doing demos at galleries. I saw myself flying medical drones, too, an idea that came out of a discussion with a medical examiner’s employee in 2015. Professor Jeff Sumey, who heads the drone/UAS technology program, got me a NASA Space grant to take a deeper dive into drone tech. I was thrilled! Spectral analysis, 3D mapping, telecommunications, and mechanical tasks like bridge-building

astounded me.

I bought a hobby drone, lots of spare parts, and started to fly/crash/repair my way to a better handling experience. I made a website to display my work and took my name from my son’s soccer team, the U-8 Brownsville Falcons. I made a QR code that linked to the site, taped it on a garage sale used it to field questions from passers-by while I flew the drone.

My wife and kids were puzzled at my behavior as they watched my interests change. I maintained a part-time job, and slept very little for the next three

years. The “workshop” in the basement now featured two stations. One held art supplies often neglected, and the other was a nest of electronics testing equipment and models, all brightly lit. On the wall was a bunch of charts and schedules, a rehearsal for a real drone company office. I had some experience in theater, and the iterative engineering process just seemed like technical rehearsals to me.

At home, I was a dad and husband who seemed far away in thought, or incommunicado bent over a laptop and calculator, mumbling strange things. In class, I was a student, and as I went deeper into electrical engineering and scientific studies, I tried to apply new thought to a drone company. My wife and I learned to balance family life. One of our sons has a learning disability, and we made sure he reached therapy sessions. Our other son is really into soccer, so we made sure he made it to practice and games. We discovered the InstantPot, a holy relic left here by the gods, and we divided household tasks according to preference. If anything went wrong, we blamed the cat. My wife’s mother died of cancer after an eight-year battle, and it made me feel guilty and helpless, but a counselor at school

helped me cope with grief that gave me insomnia, and that kept me on track.

I got an airman knowledge certificate to fly commercial drones, a business license, and went through the process of qualifying for federal grants. In between semesters at Cal U, in addition to painting, when possible, I learned to build mini-projects like an object tracker, a computer, a server, and a database with imaginary customers, sort of like soccer practice for a tournament. Meanwhile, my disabled son learned to read in kindergarten having only begun speaking at age three, just like me. Early childhood intervention worked for him.

At California University of Pennsylvania I wrote a well-researched thesis, created a financial analysis for a strategic production plan, and I am graduating with a BS in Multidisciplinary Technical Studies. The degree is customizable to blend your interests into a mix of different engineering fields with design, graphical arts, and management tools. This supports a dynamic, collaborative approach to labs and integrated studies. Think of it as a dynamic Venn diagram with many joined circles of disciplines. Each one adds to the whole. Area dad on campus, exit stage right.

EDITOR’S CHOICE “PIC”OF THE ISSUE

NFL PLAY 60 training camp set for January 26 Get off the couch and get active throughout the Heinz History Center and Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum at this year’s PLAY60 training camp, to be held January 26 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.!

• Make your way through a mini NFL combine with a 40-yard dash, passing drills, and more.

• Meet local professional athletes.

• Join in agility and quickness drills with local coaches.

• Chances to win prizes throughout the day.

• Full access to the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, including the new Super Steelers and Hockey exhibits.

All NFL PLAY 60 Training Camp activities and access to History Center exhibitions are FREE for kids ages 17

and under, $18 for adults, $15 for seniors (age 62+), $9 for students, and free for History Center members. Advance registration is not required.

FMI: heinzhistorycenter.org

In the Group category for the Best of Show at the Christmas House Challenge held to benefit Brownsville Free Public Library, Victoria & Jeannie Bremenour and Uncle Jerimiah took first place.

A full list of winners and some photos of the winning houses are on page 25 of this issue. Photos by Margie McKinley.

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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Special events at Heinz History Center celebrate moon landing, dissect real history of “Hamilton” On January 5 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., join in Destination Moon-themed activities throughout the museum, explore space in a mobile planetarium, and learn about Neil Armstrong and life in zero-G with experts from the Armstrong Air and Space Museum in Wapakoneta, Ohio. They’ll be here at the History Center for one day only with a special program geared toward astronauts of all ages.

• Explore the Smithsonian’s Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission exhibition and see the original Command Module Columbia in which Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins returned to earth following their history-making trip to the Moon.

• Create your own mission patch in the

style of Apollo astronauts.

• Build and float your own mini command module to a safe landing from our second-floor balcony.

• Step into outer space in a mobile planetarium show.

• Snap an out of this world selfie on the Destination Moon green screen in a kid-sized astronaut suit.

• Ever wonder how astronauts stay fit and well-fed in space? Staff from the Armstrong Air & Space Museum have the answer in a special one-hour “Mission Nutrition and Astronaut Fitness” program for kids beginning at 11 a.m.

• Enter to win an out-of-this-world prize basket of space-inspired goodies from the History Center museum shop.

Admission to Destination Moon

Family Days is free for kids 17 and under between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Regular museum admission applies for adults.

Whether or not you were able to snag tickets for Hamilton’s run in the Steel City, join the Heinz History Center and historian Richard Bell as we dissect the musical phenomenon to reveal what its success tells us about the marriage of history and show biz.

Dr. Bell will showcase what this popular production gets right – and wrong – about Alexander Hamilton, the American Revolution, and the birth of the United States, and why it all matters.

Examine creative choices “Hamilton” creators made to simplify, dramatize, and humanize the complicated events and stories on which the show is based.

Explore the musical’s cultural impact and what its runaway success reveals, highlighted with clips from the PBS documentary about the musical.

Please note that this program will include strong language and adult themes. Parental discretion is advised for those with children under the age of 14.

Admission to the program is $18 for adults and $9 for kids 17 and under, which includes admission to all History Center exhibitions including Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission. History Center members receive 10% off admission using promo code RISEUP.

Tri-County Division - Patsy Alfano, Assoc. Broker (Office) 724-330-5800 - www.ThePreferredRealty.com

©2018 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchise of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services and Berkshire Hathaway Home Services symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Information not verified or guaranteed. If your home is currently listed with a Broker, this is not a solicitation.

New Business Venture a Cut above Most: Heritage Craft Butchers opens 1/3

YOUR

Story by Dave Zuchowski At first glance, a new enterprise set to open January 3 might seem to be located in an unlikely location. Not only is it off the beaten path in West Bethlehem Township just a stone's throw downstream from Marianna, it's also a butcher shop and charcuterie housed in a repurposed bank building.

But if the trio of young entrepreneurs with ties or degrees to Washington and Jefferson College have it their way, folks in the area will soon have a place to buy and, in some cases sample, cured meats made from beef, lamb, pork, duck and goat as well as cuts of meat you'll find in area butcher shops, but with an upscale quality.

Simply titled Heritage Craft Butchers, the newly renovated establishment will source its product from local growers with an emphasis on heritage breeds of livestock, the kind farmers of yore used to grow before the days of industrial agriculture.

“We're looking around for local farmers with happy animals which makes for better tasting and healthier meat,” said Bob Von Scio, one of the owners along with Wes Cannon and Jared White, both of Washington. “We're looking for animals that are a good combination of breed and feed.”

Everything sold at the butchery will be slaughtered, processed and stamped for approval by the U.S. Department of Agriculture before its moved to the Marianna emporium.

Behind the bullet proof glass windows of what was once served as the teller cage during the days when the bank was the only financial institution in town, the owners will sculpt the meat into choice cuts, grind some for sausages like brawurst and kielbasa and select others for aging in its two curing chambers, one of which is the bank's old vault.

“People will be able to come in and watch us cut halves of beef, lamb and pork and make hot dogs and sausage,” Von Scio said. “Those who enjoy cooking and food will probably like to watch us at work.

It's also a way for us to be as transparent as possible.”

With artisan charcuterie (prepared meats like salami, prosciutto, pates,

FOR HEALTH How to Prevent a Cold

bacon, ham and sausage) all the rage in food circles these days, the owners are banking on feeding the public's interest for this particular culinary niche. Two large showcases, the kind you used to find in butcher shops all over the area, will be used to display different products. One will be for cut meats like dry aged steaks, fresh cut beef and chops, the other for the charcuterie items.

Sparkling new and fresh in its revitalized condition, the building saw close to $170,000 in renovations and the purchase of new equipment which came on top of the initial purchase price of $30,000 from the previous owner. “We did much of the renovation work ourselves, but we did hire contractors to do the rest,” Cannon said.

When asked about the case of safe deposit boxes moved from the vault and relocated near the front of the building, Von Scio said they still

have the original keys, and that they'll allow regulars who might want to store things like a good bottle of wine or bourbon for future use to do so.

The owners expect that walk in traffic from the area and off Interstate 79 will help support their venture but they're also planning to take their product to festivals and farmers' markets.

All three owners are long time friends, and Von Scio and Cannon were actually room mates at W & J .

Even so, Cannon said they all have wildly different backgrounds, but share a common love of food.

Cannon worked for seven years as a sailor. During long shore leaves at places as far apart as Maine and New Orleans, he worked as a chef in restaurants. White has previous experience in butchering and charcuterie and is also a licensed forager of Continued on next page...

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

Hand-washing is one of the easiest ways to prevent the spread of the common cold. That's because some of the viruses that cause a cold can survive outside the body — on surfaces or your hands — for a few hours, said Walker Winn, PharmD, a pharmacist in Austin, Texas.

"Avoid touching commonly touched surfaces, including shared writing instruments, public doorknobs and light switches, unless necessary," Dr. Winn told RxWiki News. "Washing your hands with warm water for at least 20 seconds soon afterward can prevent transmission. It is also a good idea to wash or sanitize your hands after shaking someone else's hand.”

If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol instead, the CDC recommends.

For young children who tend to rush their hand-washing, have them sing a short song, such as "Happy Birthday," to ensure they wash for at least 20 seconds.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Viruses live on your hands and can easily enter your body this way. It's also a good idea to avoid sharing personal objects like utensils, cups and water bottles.

If you can, stay away from anyone who is sick. Colds are spread through close contact with infected people.

FMI about preventing colds, ask your pharmacy!

HOURS OF OPERATION Mon-Fri 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sat 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

322 Third Street, California

724-938-2395 5

New Business Venture a Cut above Most, continued...

“Family owned & operated.

Proudly serving the community over 90 years. Your comfort is a direct reflection of our success.”

H EATING * A IR C ONDITIONING * P LUMBING

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wild edibles like mushrooms and ramps. Cannon said, when in season, some of the mushrooms may find their way into the shop's specialty sausages.

After working for several years as a consultant, Von Scio and his wife, Sara, considered a move to Central America, but opted instead for a farm near Bob's grandparents' homestead near Sycamore (Morris Township), Greene County.

Intending to become self sustaining farmers and living on the food they grew themselves, they started raising hogs. Charcuterie making soon blossomed as a natural outgrowth of the endeavor, and the self-taught farmer began exploring and making scores of different cured meats.

After the trio of friends began planning their meat business back in March, they started looking around for a suitable location and considered Washington as a viable option.

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OPEN YEAR ROUND 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

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But, when informed by a realtor of the Marianna property, they took a look and saw that it worked for what they intended to do.

Von Scio said. “We have 2,000 pounds of meat aging right now in a curing room that's ready to go.”

Heritage Craft Butchers is located at 1784 Main Street in Marianna and is set to open Jan. 3. For information on the opening, follow them on Facebook and at heritagecraftbutchers.com.

Photos: (top, l-r) Bob Von Scio and Wes Cannon Standing in One of the Curing Cabinets and (top of page 5) Bob Von Scio and Wes Cannon in front of the entrance to Heritage Craft Butchers. Photos by Dave Zuchowski.

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2nd Annual Glitter and Gold Event promises prom gown on every princess

Helping the Hurt

Story by Keren Lee Dreyer With prom season comes visions of limousines, dancing and good times and, of course, hitting the scene in high style. Among the expenses incurred for this momentous occasion, the most glamorous - and one that will live on in pictures for decades to come - is a young lady’s choice of prom gown.

While a number of specialized outlets delightfully charge fabulous prices for their specialized prom-wear, there is one place where the gowns are free for the asking, and no-one need be the wiser; the 2nd Annual Glitter and Gold Event, hosted by Jazzy Boutique at 1049 Broad Avenue in Belle Vernon, PA. Jazzy Boutique owner and co-founder of the Glitter and Gold Event, Diann Donaldson, recalls the genesis of her munificent mission: “Back when I was in high school, the prom was such a financial strain on my family. My dad was gone (laid off) from the steel mill, and I would clean my grandmother’s house in order to earn money to pay for my gown that I got from a local prom shop.”

Sometime later, after Donaldson opened Jazzy Boutique, students and parents were coming through for piano lessons being held there. According to Donaldson, many of those girls and parents were “talking about how pricey the prom was. So myself and Cindy Rutherford (owner) of Vintage to Vogue in McMurray, PA got together and said ‘let’s do this.’ I decided that since I have the space, I could have it here.”

During the first Glitter and Gold Event, Donaldson shut down Jazzy Boutique and removed all non prom related items from her store to make way for myriad displays of fashionable gowns - all donated from unclaimed property at a local cleaner and from private donations. During this private event, Salon Eye Candy, Belle Vernon, provided hair and makeup while owner, Jamie Davis, gave away gift certificates to the girls for the prom. Casey Clark of Perked Up Cafe stepped up with beverages and snacks, while a piano player provided underscore for the elegant evening. In total, including the the weeks leading up to prom, Donaldson said “we gave away 182 gowns.”

For the 2nd Annual Glitter and Gold Event, taking place at Jazzy Boutique on

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(724) 938-1355 January 24 from 6 - 9 p.m., Donaldson said there are some “phenomenal partners” stepping in to make the private event swing. “Model Cleaners donated gowns that were sitting in their warehouse that nobody picked up. We have Salon Eye Candy again this year, and Vintage to Vogue. We have the Mon Valley Regional Chamber Chamber of Commerce...Leanna Spada is the new director and is helping me get in touch with all of the school districts. And the Mon Valley Alliance are providing all of the food and drink for the girls and the parents.”

Also helping the event stay organized and elegant are juniors Holly Weightman and Hanna Wagner.

Weightman, who “loves the event from beginning to end” helps keep track of who donated the gowns, their sizes, and even who the volunteers are. “I’m really proud of her because it’s a big undertaking for such a young adult” Donaldson

said, adding that Wagner “has the voice of an angel and will be singing with the pianist that evening.”

Additionally, special needs young ladies are invited to come and pick out their gowns first in order to can prepare for their own special prom, Donaldson said, adding that transportation arrangements are usually made with her through the school.

While an RSVP is required to attend the Glitter and Gold Event, Donaldson notes that all any girl, from any area, need do to acquire a gown outside the event “is just give us a call, and we’ll ask certain questions to make sure we have what they’re looking for.”

What will not be asked for is any financial information because “Anybody can come, regardless of their financial situation. That’s not for us to ask. The prom tickets have become so bloody expensive, and the girls have their hair Continued on page 9...

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200 THIRD STREET CALIFORNIA 15419 attorney@budaylaw.com

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Happy New Year from Attorney Buday, her staff, & Oliver the Office Cat! May your new year be full of joy, good health, and peace 7

January news from the Donora Historical Society and Smog Museum

Free Produce to People Food Distribution - Fayette County Thursday, January 10 at 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. - Fayette County Fair Fairgrounds, 132 Pechin Road, 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!

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ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP AND FUND DRIVE - Started in 1946, forward-looking thinkers in Donora had the presence to start collecting artifacts related to our town and assembling them into a collection that we are proud to display to this day at the Smog Museum of the Donora Historical Society.

January marked the start of our annual membership and fund drive that helps preserve that collection. If you were a Historical Society member in 2018, 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 2019.

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. You can 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 If you have absolutely any questions about past accomplishments, future projects, or anything else at the Historical Society, feel free to stop by, send us an email or give us a call and someone will be more than happy to return your message and talk to you in depth about anything you might like to discuss. Your continued support goes a long way in keeping the Donora Historical Society and Smog Museum up and running and preserving Donora’s past.

ELDORA PARK WALKING TOURS - Our third annual Eldora Park

Walking Tours (2) are scheduled for Saturday, March 30th and Saturday, April 6th both at noon. The tours 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 $12 per person and you should allow two hours for the presentation and walking tour. Please contact the Historical Society to RSVP as space is limited. You will be contacted to confirm the date(s) of the tour(s). If you have any questions about our Eldora Park Walking Tours, please consult our website and click the “Eldora Park Walking Tour” tab, or contact the Historical Society.

SPRING CEMENT CITY HOME AND WALKING TOURS DATE SET - Our spring Cement City Home and Walking Tours and your chance to see Thomas Edison’s solution for worker housing created 102 years ago in 1917 and the inspiration for the featured addition to the Carnegie Science Center’s Miniature Railroad & Village are scheduled for Saturday, April 14th, Sunday, April 15th, Saturday, May 4th and Sunday, May 5th at 1:00 p.m. The cost of the tours are $15/person and space is limited. It is encouraged to choose a date, then 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 any questions about Cement City, one of our Home and Walking Tours or our project with the Carnegie Science Center’s Miniature Railroad & Village, please consult our website and click the “Cement City” tab, or contact the Historical Society.

1948 SMOG PRESENTATION IN ROSTRAVER - Donora and Rostraver

have a shared history that goes back to the early 1800s when Rostraver settlers would sometimes bury their deceased loved-ones across the Mon River on a plot of land just north of the now extinct village of West Columbia that existed before Donora was founded in 1901. In the 1870s, this burial ground became known as the Gilmore Cemetery. Other shared history includes the DonoraWebster Bridge that spanned the Mon River to link the two communities for over 100 years from 1908 to 2015, and the 1948 Smog. The Donora-Webster Bridge presentation was given in September 2018.

In the second in a series of presentations for Donora and Rostraver residents, or anyone interested in Mon Valley history, Brian Charlton of the Donora Historical Society will visit the Rostraver Historical Society on Tuesday, April 9th at 6:30 p.m. at the historic Fells Methodist Church at 800 Fellsburg Road in Rostraver to present “The 1948 Smog Disaster.” This presentation has been given countless times in Donora and around the Pittsburgh area, and was also filmed by CSPAN. ADDITIONAL INFO - If you have additional questions about the subjects mentioned above, the historical society, museum, presentations or possibly volunteering, feel free to stop by on Saturdays or by special appointment (with at least a week’s notice), email us at DonoraHistoricalSociety@gmail.com, call us at 724-823-0364 and leave a message, visit us on the web at www.DonoraHistoricalSociety.org, or follow us and Like Us on Facebook at “Donora Historical Society and Smog Museum.”

Westmoreland Cultural Trust announces resignation of President and CEO Westmoreland Cultural Trust announces the resignation of its President and CEO, Michael J Langer, effective November 30, 2018. “Over the last couple of months, Mike and I have been discussing his future and, after 16 years at the helm of the Trust, he has indicated that he is ready to pursue a new adventure,” said T. Terrance Reese, Chairman of Westmoreland Cultural Trust. “The last fifteen years

have been a period of exhilarating growth for Westmoreland Cultural Trust. We are in the strongest financial position in our history and are hosting more patrons and performers than at any time. We have a strong and experienced staff that is more than capable of continuing our momentum while we search for our next leader. We thank Mike for his efforts over the past 16 years and wish him the best of luck in

the future.”

Westmoreland Cultural Trust is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to stimulate cultural and economic development in the Westmoreland County region, to promote the performing arts; preserve and enhance the region’s assets for the benefit of the community. Visit us on the web at westmorelandculturaltrust.org.

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

Center in the Woods January 2019 Activities Center in the Woods would like to extend a warm welcome to anyone who would like to come and be a part of our community. Whether you’re looking for fellowship, a new activity, or you’d like to volunteer, we encourage you to stop in. No membership is required. Make a reservation a day ahead and join us for lunch at noon. The Center in the Woods is a non-profit, 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. !Daily activities include: Mondays: Piano lessons, 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. Sit and enjoy or bring an instrument and join in.

Piano lessons are offered on Mondays.

Call Judy at 724-785-6959 to schedule.

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.

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 par-

ticipants 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 are also needed in the kitchen.

We also need volunteers to help with various fundraising activities and administration work. FMI, please call 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

Glitter and Gold, continued from page 7... done, and their nails done, and have the limo, and this is just help for any parent” Donaldson said, adding that “the gowns are very expensive, so if I can spare one girl from cleaning her grandmother’s house…”

Glitter and Gold’s good will extends from the young ladies, who will be well outfitted for their prom, to Donaldson herself, who said “Nothing’s better than when you get those thank-you notes, or some will share some pictures from the prom….It’s a very emotional event, when all is said and done. Just the smile

on these girls’ faces is unbelievable. We believe every young lady should feel like a princess on that night.”

Formal gown donations are always welcome, and may be dropped off without advance notice at Jazzy Boutique on Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To RSVP for the 2nd Annual Glitter and Gold Event, visit jazzyboutiques.com and click “Register Now” under the 2nd Annual Glitter and Gold Event heading. There are no geographic restrictions to join in the fun.

WHEN DISASTER STRIKES, WE CAN HELP!

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Another outcome of a catastrophic event can be a staggering jury award as a result of a lawsuit. You’ve probably seen the headlines. It could happen to anyone, and it could mean financial ruin if you’re not properly protected.

PROTECTION AGAINST THE UNEXPECTED Most of us have auto and home coverage, but having protection against a catastrophic liability claim is often overlooked. Would you have enough coverage if something tragic happened to you? Personal catastrophe liability insurance coverage, also known as personal umbrella insurance, gives you and your family an extra layer of protection above the limits in your auto, homeowners or boat insurance policy.

Erie Insurance’s personal catastrophe liability coverage1 offers you an

additional $1 million in coverage for covered claims brought against you or your family for things like bodily injury, emotional stress, libel, slander and accidental damage to another person’s property. (Higher coverage amounts can be purchased. An ERIE agent can help you decide what’s right for you.) ERIE’s coverage can also help protect you if: You cause a car accident that results in injuries or property damage Someone is hurt on your property (someone other than you or residents of your household) You cause damage or are in an accident while travelling (it follows you anywhere in the world) Have to pay to defend a claim that’s not covered by your primary policy2 LOW COST, HIGH VALUE INSURANCE COVERAGE You might be surprised to learn how much coverage you can buy from ERIE for a modest cost. For most people, an extra $1 million in coverage costs less than $20 a month. (Let’s face it; you really can’t afford not to have this insurance.)

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Westmoreland to hold Xpress Enrollment Days

Seton Hill University Nursing Degree Approved

Westmoreland County Community College will hold a series of Xpress Enrollment Days on Saturday, January 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at its Youngwood campus and centers in Latrobe, Mt. Pleasant, New Kensington, Murrysville, Uniontown and Indiana.

Xpress Enrollment Days provide a convenient “one-stop shop” for timestretched prospective students. They can complete the free application for admission, find their fit in classes and register for classes offered at any Westmoreland location or online, all in the same day.

New students should bring a copy of their high school transcript.

Classes start January 10 for the 15week semester and February 14 for the 12-week semester.

During Xpress Enrollment Days, FAFSA (Free Application for

Seton Hill University President Mary C. Finger, Ed.D. has announced that the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing has approved the university’s four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree starting in the Fall of 2019. The program will be offered through The Daniel J. Wukich School of Nursing at Seton Hill.

“We are pleased the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing has approved Seton Hill’s new Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program, which will serve to strengthen the university’s already robust offerings in the natural and health sciences,” said Seton Hill President Mary C. Finger, Ed.D. “The BSN Program joins with Seton Hill’s programs in Physician Assistant, Health Science, Nutrition and Dietetics, Exercise Science, and Orthodontics as well as our partnerships with Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) and Salus University to provide our students with multiple pathways to careers in health care.”

Seton Hill’s BSN will help prepare students to meet regional workforce needs and provide healthcare to patients in rural, underserved areas.

With more than 500,000 experienced nurses expected to retire by 2022,

Federal Student Aid) workshops will be held at the Youngwood campus.

Financial aid assistance at all other locations will be completed over the phone. Students can learn about financial aid, ask questions and receive assistance completing the form.

For more information or to reserve a spot on any of the dates, visit westmoreland.edu/xpress or visit westmoreland.edu/classes to view the spring class schedules.

Westmoreland Cancels Women’s Basketball Season “Westmoreland County Community College cancelled its women’s basketball program for the 2018 – 2019 year due to low roster numbers resulting from injuries and other extenuating circumstances.

The November and December games were postponed earlier this year due to low roster numbers. Despite continuous efforts by James Brymn, Westmoreland’s new women’s basketball head coach, he could not recruit enough student athletes to finish the second half of the season.

“We are very disappointed that we couldn't get quite enough players to field a team to play our WPCC schedule in January and February,” said Brian Rose, Westmoreland’s director of Athletics and Recreation. “When we were preparing for the season in October, we had eight student athletes ready to play, but due to injuries and other circumstances, some of them weren't able to play for us this year.”

“A truly experienced coach, James is a great addition to the staff to lead the program, but he had a little bit of a late start since he was recently hired in late September,” continued Rose. “He worked hard speaking to many women

10

on campus trying to field a team for the second semester, but even with efforts by him and everyone at Westmoreland, we just could not garner a team. This was a difficult decision to cancel the season.”

Westmoreland and Brymn continue to work on building the program for next year. Brymn will host several camps and clinics at the Youngwood campus that are designed to showcase Westmoreland’s athletic and academic programs.

“James is well-known throughout the county due to his success on the Penn Trafford staff,” said Rose. “He's working extremely hard to build the program. He and his assistant Brynn Denny, a former Division II player at Ashland University, Ohio, will be out recruiting at area games and practices for the 2019 – 2020 season. I have no doubt that the Wolfpack women's basketball program will be strong and back in action for the next year.

THE CAST IRON GALLERY HAS OPENED IN BROWNSVILLE, PA. We would like to invite you to visit us at 200 Bank Street.

We are open Saturday & Sunday from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m..

Weekdays by Appointment.

Come explore Brownsville and be inspired by the rich history.

There are new photos by Stephen Beckman, the creator of the gallery, and Charles Hoopes, his business partner. Our photos are on the website and available for purchase. castirongallery.com Questions? Call 973-652-5324.

We are searching for old photos of the area and artifacts to coincide with the same.

Schedule your free tour today!

the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the need to prepare more than one million nurses in order to avoid a nursing shortage.

“Seton Hill University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program offers students both the scientific and professional education they will need to succeed in the nursing profession and provides them with the liberal arts background that will allow them to effectively communicate with patients, collaborate with fellow healthcare professionals and ultimately become leaders within healthcare organizations,” said Seton Hill Provost Susan Yochum, SC, Ph.D. The Wukich School of Nursing will be directed by Diane Kondas, who has more than 17 years experience in nurse education and has worked in clinical settings for more than 26 years. Students in Seton Hill’s BSN program will have access to topnotch academic, clinical and research facilities and resources at the JoAnne Woodyard Boyle Health Sciences Center and will be able to pursue minors in areas such as Medical Spanish or an MBA in Healthcare Administration that can help them as they pursue their career goals.

Diane Kondas, Director of the Wukich School of Nursing and Assistant Professor of Nursing, said, “I am thrilled to be a part of the launch of the Bachelor of Science Degree Program at Seton Hill. The university’s mission of educating students to think and act critically, creatively and ethically as productive members of society committed to transforming the world is a perfect fit for nursing, as it speaks to what nurses do every day as we care for others.”

The Daniel J. Wukich School of Nursing was created through a leadership gift by Seton Hill University Trustee Daniel J. Wukich, founder, owner, president and CEO of Quest Healthcare Development, Inc.

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

Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2019 Line Up Announced The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announced the complete programming lineup for Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2019, the 25th “Silver Jubilee” anniversary of Pittsburgh’s New Year’s Eve celebration. Starting at 6 p.m. on December 31, 2018, acclaimed artists from Pittsburgh and beyond will light up the Cultural District and ring in the New Year with live music, dance, theater, comedy, magic, and kids’ activities. Two Zambelli fireworks displays, the signature New Year’s Eve Parade and its famed giant puppets, the “Countdown to Midnight,” and raising of the Future of Pittsburgh Ball complete the celebration.

“For a quarter of a century, Highmark First Night Pittsburgh has brought acclaimed local and national artists together to ring in the New Year,” says Director of Highmark First Night Pittsburgh for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Sarah Aziz. “Every year, we strive to bring culturally-diverse and exciting activities, pieces of art, and performances together in the Cultural District. We are so grateful for our presenting sponsor Highmark Health and its long-standing commitment and support of this event, and also for all of the sponsors, volunteers, participants, and attendees who make this event a success every year. Here’s to the next 25 years!”

The Highmark First Night Pittsburgh New Year’s Eve Parade, themed Black and Gold Turns Silver, celebrates the 25th anniversary and marks puppetmaker, artist, and educator Cheryl Capezzuti’s 20th year of participation.

Puppets created at her studio and during community workshops throughout the holiday season will be, as always, a

centerpiece for the Parade. She says, “I see the Parade as a people-powered work of art that wouldn’t be complete without art made by the community. I am proud to participate year after year!”

Another new, exciting component of Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2019 is the participation of Pittsburgh native and star of the national tour of Hamilton, Peter Matthew Smith. Before stepping onstage at the Benedum Center as King George on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2019, Peter serves as the Williams SING-OFF Competition guest judge. The winner of the Competition, which is accepting auditions from singers in grades 6 – 12 through December 7, will have the opportunity to perform live at Highmark First Night Pittsburgh. In addition to this once-in-alifetime performance opportunity, the winner of the competition will also earn a $500 cash prize and a $1,000 donation

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to his or her school’s music department.

The Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2019 evening begins with the Dollar Bank Children’s Fireworks at 6 p.m. on the Dollar Bank Stage, and culminates in the Future of Pittsburgh Grand Finale, which begins at 11:58 p.m.

During the six hours of celebration between 6 p.m. and midnight, you will be sure to encounter fan-favorites like Magician Lee Terbosic, Arcade Comedy Theater, and Staycee Pearl Dance Project. You can also discover a new Highmark First Night addition around every corner of the 14-block Cultural District, including Emerald Owl Productions’ Steel City Let’s Glow Party at EQT Plaza, The Zuzu African Acrobats of America’s Got Talent on the Pittsburgh CAPA School stage, the First Night Jazz Club Presented by BNY Mellon in the Trust Arts Education Center, and many, many more.

Reservations for performances can be

made at TrustArts.org/FirstNightPGH with button purchase.

There are plenty of activities that do not require a reservation all throughout the Cultural District, including Fire and Ice Plaza, Fifth Avenue place face painting and caricatures, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust visual art galleries, and the Family Tent sponsored by Highmark & Allegheny Health Network at the corner of Penn and Seventh.

Before the evening’s finale, Durand Jones and the Indications will take the Highmark Stage to begin the countdown to midnight with dynamic, modern soul music.

These listings are just a sample of the more than 100 events and activities available during the Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2019 celebration.

Continue to check back at TrustArts.org/FirstNightPGH for the complete schedule of events, and to plan your Cultural District visit on New Year’s Eve. Admission Buttons are $10 each (children five and under are FREE) and grant access to all attractions in the Cultural District on New Year’s Eve. The First Night Friend VIP experience ($40) is also available, and provides priority access to seating, parking, a private lounge, and more!

Admission Buttons and First Night Friend VIP Packages are now available for sale at TrustArts.org/FirstNightPGH, in person at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue), or by phone at 412-456-6666.

Additionally, participating Giant Eagle store locations will have Admission Buttons available for sale. If you purContinued on next page...

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First Night programming announced, continued... chase Admission Buttons at participating Giant Eagle locations, you will be directed to register your button at TrustArts.org/FirstNightPGH. Some indoor performances also require free reserved seating, and these are listed at TrustArts.org/FirstNightPGH. Some indoor performances also require free reserved seating, events requiring vouchers are listed at TrustArts.org/FirstNightPGH. Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2019 sponsors as of December 3, 2018 include Presenting Sponsor Highmark Health, Allegheny Health Network, Dollar Bank, FedEx Ground, Giant Eagle, Williams, PNC, BNY Mellon,

Westmoreland Cultural Trust appoints interim CEO

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Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2019 community supporters include The Buhl Foundation, The Fine Foundation, and The Grable Foundation. Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2019 media partners include WESA 90.5 FM, WYEP 91.3 FM, and KDKA-TV. Through a special partnership with the Pittsburgh Port Authority, on December 31st after 4 p.m., all children ages 6-12 accompanied by an adult and wearing a Highmark First Night Pittsburgh button may ride free. Adults continue to pay full fare. Children age 5 and younger always ride free when accompanied by an adult.

The Board of Directors of Westmoreland Cultural Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Nancy P. Anderson as interim Chief Executive Officer of the Westmoreland Cultural Trust. Anderson will serve in the role as the board launches its search for a permanent President and CEO. “There’s great enthusiasm and delight in welcoming Nancy in this position, and she has the support of the entire board. She’s very familiar with the Trust and has been a long-time supporter of our mission and The Palace Theatre,” said T. Terrance Reese, Board Chairman of Westmoreland Cultural Trust.

Anderson has been an exceedingly active community volunteer for several nonprofit organizations at the local,

state and national levels, including Westmoreland Cultural Trust, since her retirement in 2002 from the U.S. Marine Corps with the rank of Colonel.

“I am thrilled and honored to accept this responsibility, and to have the chance to work with the talented, and respected, Trust staff,” relayed Nancy.

She will officially take the helm on January 2, 2019.

Anderson’s dedication to helping others and service to her country began in 1972 with a career in the Marine Corps.

Most of her military service was spent in tactical communications and computers, in billets ranging from platoon commander through chief of staff, G-6, of 3rd Force Service Support Group on Okinawa. She served as both a battalion commander and a base commander, with responsibilities for over 3,000 Marines, sailors, and civilian employees. Her staff positions include deputy, Strategic Plans Division, within the Corps’ Headquarters Plans, Policies and Operations Department, and both International Strategic Initiatives deputy and Marine Corps Fellow to the Institute for National Strategic Studies.

Her academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and a Master of Science degree from the Naval Postgraduate School. She is a graduate, with highest distinction, of the Naval War College nonresident program and a graduate of the National War College.

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

Daniel Day to Lead Seton Hill Football Program Seton Hill University President Mary C. Finger, Ed.D. has announced the appointment of Daniel Day as the university’s Head Football Coach. Day returns to his alma mater as Head Coach after being a member of the school’s first football team in 2005.

“On behalf of the Seton Hill University community, I am pleased to welcome Daniel Day back to the university as our new head football coach,” said Seton Hill University President Mary C. Finger, Ed.D. “Dan's enthusiasm for Seton Hill and Griffin football and his eagerness to help his players succeed on the field, in the classroom, and in life truly reflects the mission of our university. I am confident he will build a competitive football program at Seton Hill, and I look forward to seeing him on the sidelines next fall.”

Coach Day stated, “Words cannot describe how excited I am to come home and lead our football program.

Coach Snyder trusted me once as a player and I, with the help of amazing teammates, led the football team to a 10-3 season in 2008.”

Day added, “I couldn't be more thankful to Dr. Finger, the search committee, and most importantly Coach Snyder for giving me the opportunity to lead the Griffins again, just in a different capacity. I cannot wait to get there and first and foremost let the young men on our team know how much I want to keep them in our program, and have them be the building blocks to getting SHU football back on the map.”

Seton Hill Director of Athletics Chris Snyder said, “I am both pleased and proud that Dan has agreed to become our next football coach. Dan has a genuine passion for Seton Hill and is committed to recruit quality academic student-athletes who will thrive on the field and in the classroom. I have known Dan since he was a senior in high school when we recruited him to come play for our

14

very first football team. I watched him grow, mature, and become a leader of the team that advanced to the second round of the NCAA playoffs his senior year.”

Dan Day was a three-year starter and four-year letter winner on the Seton Hill football team. As a senior, he was team captain, helping the Griffins advance to the second round of the NCAA Playoffs for the first time in school history. Day was also named the team’s Most Valuable Lineman following his senior season. After graduating from Seton Hill with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History, Day spent two seasons on the Griffins staff as the offensive graduate assistant coach. He earned his Master’s Degree in Elementary Education while serving as a graduate assistant.

Day then coached at Saint Joseph’s College in Rensselaer, Indiana where he held titles of Assistant Head Coach, Special Teams Coordinator, Offensive Line Coach and Strength and Conditioning Coordinator before being named Head Coach in 2014. At that point, he was the youngest head coach in Division II football. He was the school’s Head Coach for three seasons before the school closed after the 2016 football season. Day helped lead the Pumas to back-to-back eight-win seasons for the second time in school history.

In 2017, Day served as the Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line coach at Benedictine University. The offense produced the highest yardage output in school history in his one season of play calling.

Most recently, Day was the head football coach at Warren Local High School in Vincent, Ohio where he led the program to its first win in two seasons and first Senior Day victory since 2012.

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WELCOME, PASTOR AMORY! Please join our congregation at the Installation of Pastor Amory Merriman, to be held Sunday, January 13, 2019, at 2 p.m.

Reception to follow.

Regular Sunday service will take place at 10 a.m.

All are welcome!

If you have prayer concerns, or would like more information on events, worship times, or youth & young adult groups, please call the church!

Join us in Faith, Fellowship & Fun

United Christian Church 499 E. Malden Drive, Coal Center - (724) 938-2098 We worship every Sunday at 10 a.m. All are welcome!

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You can now support the ministries of the United Christian Church with online giving on our web site at uccdoc.org.

2019 Frosty Frolic Winter River Romp promises chills - and scholarship funds Story by Keren Lee Dreyer As winter’s doldrums firmly grip the Mon Valley in a penetrating chill and unsightly overcast skies, one early February fundraising event promises a colorful reprieve, complete with costumes and a party-like atmosphere, all surrounding a thrilling plunge into the Monongahela River.

Of the many ways to raise money for the California Area School District Foundation which provides student scholarships and grants for local teachers - the Frosty Frolic Winter River Romp promises river jumpers literally the coolest around.

On Saturday, February 2, 2019, the Frosty Frolic River Romp celebrates its sixth anniversary by hosting more river jumpers than ever before.

Walter MacFann, Frosty Frolic Committee Chairman, California Area School District Foundation president, and BerkshireHathaway & Tri-County Realty Associates LP agent, estimates that between 75 to nearly 100 sponsored jumpers will take the plunge on that day.

According to MacFann, the frosty fun starts at 12:30 pm with registration at the Coal Center Municipal

Gallery 86 is now the home of the Uniontown Art Club and is located at 86 West Main St. in downtown Uniontown. The gallery and gift shop is filled with unique and one-of-a-kind works of art made by local artists.

Hours of operation are MondaySaturday 12:30-5:30 p.m.

The UAC is a local non-profit Building on Water Street, where registrants will “get some promotional items,” including t-shirts and other cool swag. Jumpers and fundraising teams then proceed to the Coal Center Wharf, where a d.j. will spin the day’s soundtracks as a costume judging contest gets underway at 1:10 pm. Monongahela Valley Hospital, a major donor to the frolic,

will sponsor a giveaway of special gifts.

At 1:30 pm “we actually do the jump. We bring them down in waves of 10-12, depending on their size” MacFann said, stressing that “safety is first on that day.” With Fayette County Emergency Management River Rescue in the water, reinforced on land by the Brownsville EMS and Fire Departments, jumpers will find themselves in good hands.

In addition to being grateful for support provided by Fayette County and Brownsville, PA, MacFann also sends “a special thank you” to the good hands provided by Powell’s Auto Body in Bentleyville, PA. When a ramp to a dock was discovered to have a crack the Friday before 2018’s event, “We reached out...and they stepped up” by sending a technician “to weld aluminum, hours before the event.”

Jumpers leaping into the frigid Mon River during a typical freezing winter day climb back out with myriad reactions to the heart-stopping plunge. As

that was established in 1927.

They have been promoting and generating appreciation of the visual arts in the community for over 90 years.

Their web address is www.uniontownartclub.org.

Check out their Facebook page for upcoming special events and shows.

Continued on next page...

APPRISE, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, will hold free presentations that will help answer many questions concerning basic Medicare. Registration is required: Call 724-925-4204 Dec. 11 - WestmorelandYoungwood Campus, 2-4 p.m.

145 Pavilion Lane, Youngwood Registration code: PRDX 5019-01 FMI: westmoreland.edu

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

15

2019 Frosty Frolic Winter River Romp, continued...

2019 Baseball & Softball Registration Tuesday, January 15, 2019 from 6-9 PM Saturday, January, 2019 from 2-5 PM

ALL REGISTRATIONS

WILL BE HELD AT THE

ROSCOE VOLUNTEER FIRE CO. All players must have copies of medical insurance cards All NEW players must have a photocopy of their birth certificate!

Pony - Ages 13 & 14 (born between 5/1/2004 & 8/31/2006) Fee: $65.00 Bronco - Ages 11 & 12 (born between 9/1/2006 & 8/31/2008) Fee: $65.00 Mustang - Ages 9 & 10 (born between 9/1/2008 & 8/31/2010) Fee: $65.00 Pinto - Ages 7 & 8 (born between 9/1/2010 & 8/31/2012) Fee: $65.00 Shetland - Ages 4, 5 & 6 (born between 9/1/2012 & 8/31/2015) Fee: $55.00 Softball Registration for 16U, 12U, 10U, 8U teams Age cutoffs are by Dec 31st. Fee $65.00

*No LATE registrations will be accepted* Payment due at time of registration (check preferred) Please bring any unwanted, unused or outgrown baseball/softball equipment to registration on January 15th or 19th to be redistributed to others in need at the uniform sizing. Thank you in advance.

For more information

Like us on Facebook California Area Youth Athletics or contact Shaun Rice (724) 322-1480 or Jennifer Todd (724) 263-0770

MacFann describes, “Myself, I find that it’s rejuvenating and a lot of fun and excitement and adrenaline buildup,” while others say it’s cold and freezing and are not sure they’d ever do it again. Still, others, such as the California University football team, embrace the experience - as with their 15 man, 2018 event jump that was “over the top with excitement as a group building exercise” MacFann said, while explaining an event rule; “The rule is we go in feet first, but some (on the football team) were able to do it via backflip. That’s the level of excitement.”

However, the excitement does not end when the event comes to a close; it continues on by providing scholarship money to graduating California Area High School students, along with grants for two of the school’s teachers.

“Over the past few years we’ve raised in excess of $18,000, total for (all of) the events.” MacFann said, continuing, “Those monies go directly toward 22 different scholarships to graduating seniors ranging from $1,500 - 2,500 dollars. We work with the high school’s guidance counselor and, in late March, the guidance counselor makes sure every senior gets information on this...we have roughly 30 applicants out of each class, but we encourage more, that’s 16

for sure.”

Also helping contribute to this year’s excitement are sponsors, as listed by MacFann: Berkshire and Hathaway; Monongahela Valley Hospital; Lagerheads; Todd’s Beer Distributor; Lisa Buday, Attorney at Law; BeeGraphix - A Creative Apparel Co.; and State Farm - Dax Thomas, agent. “Those are the ones committed this year, and have been part of our group for the last six years” MacFann said, though other sponsors are expected to sign on.

Though the Frosty Frolic Winter River Romp is “a great opportunity to give back to the community” MacFann said, “It’s the day sitting down and interviewing the students where the rewards come - talking to them about their dreams and the things they’ve accomplished.

They’ve accomplished a lot and, at 18, thev’re accomplished more than most of us at 18.”

For further information, call Walt at 724-330-5800 option 2, or visit the Frosty Frolic facebook page at: facebook.com/FrostyFrolic/ To learn more about California Area School District Foundation’s good work, register online, or become a sponsor, visit calsdfoundation.org/site

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Award winning children’s book series to release third book this January The award-winning Della and Lila children's book series is proud to announce the release of the third book in their series, Della and Lila Meet the Monongahela Monster. Della and Lila Meet the Monongahela Monster is a heart-warming tale of two little girls, who befriend the legendary monster, give him a special name, and help their community realize that what a person (or, in this case a “monster”) looks like on the outside, isn't really who they are on the inside. Never judge a book by its cover or a monster by the color of his scales. Children and adults alike will fall in love with this story of our region's most fabled “monster”. Be sure to stay up to date on Della and Lila's website and social media accounts at dellaandlila.com and @dellaandlila

Jerry Seinfeld to return to Benedum Center The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and JS Touring announced today that America’s premier comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, will return to the Benedum Center, 237 7th Street, Pittsburgh, PA, on Friday, March 8, 2019 for two shows, at 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday, December 16, 2018, at 10:00 a.m.EST. In Pittsburgh, tickets (starting at $52) will be available at the following official Pittsburgh Cultural Trust ticket sources: online at TrustArts.org, by calling Guest Services at 412-4566666, or in person at Theater Square Box Office, 655 Penn Avenue.

Seinfeld has been hailed for his uncanny ability to joke about the little things in life that relate to audiences everywhere. His latest projects include the Emmy nominated web series, Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee, and his Netflix special Jerry Before Seinfeld.

Seinfeld continues to perform both nationally and internationally.

Entertainment icon Jerry Seinfeld’s comedy career took off after his first appearance on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson in 1981. Eight years later, he teamed up with fellow comedian Larry David to create what

was to become the most successful comedy series in the history of television: Seinfeld. The show ran on NBC for nine seasons, winning numerous Emmy, Golden Globe and People’s Choice awards, and was named the greatest television show of all time in 2009 by TV Guide, and in 2012 was identified as the best sitcom ever in a 60 Minutes/Vanity Fair poll.

Seinfeld has also starred in, written and produced movies (Comedian, Bee Movie), directed and produced a Broadway hit (Colin Quinn Long

Story Short), and even wrote a bestselling book (Seinlanguage) and a children’s book (Halloween).

Seinfeld directed the off-Broadway production of Colin Quinn: The New York Story and the Netflix stand-up special. Seinfeld’s latest project is the Emmy nominated and criticallyacclaimed web series Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee which has garnered over 100 million views, and which the New York Times describes as “impressively complex and artful” and Variety calls “a game changer.”

Most recently, Seinfeld has been performing at the Beacon Theatre as part of a year-long residency entitled, “Jerry Seinfeld: The Homestand.” He recently made his Netflix debut with the original stand-up special “Jerry Before Seinfeld.”

Seinfeld resides in New York City with his wife and three children. He remains active as a standup comedy performer, continuously touring both nationally and internationally.

This event is a JS Touring production. FMI: trustarts.org

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State Theatre CENTER FOR THE ARTS

J OHN D ENVER M USICAL T RIBUTE S TARRING T ED V IGI L March 3 at 7 p.m.

Tickets $36, $32 & $25 The legendary John Denver evokes memories of an era in music which was both inspiring and influential. In this tribute by Ted Vigil, John’s great music lives on. With the uncanny resemblance and sound of the late John Denver, Ted Vigil performs many of Denver’s hits, including “Rocky Mountain High,” “Annie’s Song,” “Sunshine on My Shoulder,” and “Thank God I’m a Country Boy.”

MUTTS GONE NUTS April 6 at 7 p.m.

Tickets $30, $25 & $20 Disorderly duo, Scott and Joan Houghton, and their hilarious pack of pampered rescue pooches have created a comedy dog thrill show like no other. A show the whole family will enjoy!

Classic Film Series December 7 at 2 & 7 p.m.

January 11 at 2 & 7 p.m.

January’s film is Bringing Up Baby February’s film is An Affair to Remember Adults $5, Students, senior citizens & children $3

724-439-1360 STATETHEATRE.INFO 27 East Main St., Uniontown 17

“Get the Led Out” returns to the Palace Theatre, bringing the best of “the mighty Zep” to the stage Get The Led Out returns to bring the studio recordings of “the mighty Zep” to life on the concert stage. Presented by Westmoreland Cultural Trust, the band will perform Friday, January 18, 2019 and Saturday, January 19, 2019 at 8 PM at The Palace Theatre in Greensburg, PA. Tickets are available for $27, $31, and $37 by contacting The Palace Theatre Box Office at 724-836-8000 or visiting www.thepalacetheatre.org. The Palace Theatre is located at 21 W. Otterman Street, Greensburg, PA. From the bombastic and epic, to the folky and mystical, Get The Led Out (GTLO) have captured the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin and brought it to the concert stage. The Philadelphia-based group consists of six veteran musicians intent on delivering Led Zeppelin live, like you’ve never heard before. Utilizing the multi-instrumentalists at their disposal, GTLO re-creates the songs in all their depth and glory with the studio overdubs that Zeppelin themselves never performed. When you hear three guitars on the album…GTLO delivers

three guitarists on stage.

No wigs or fake English accents, GTLO brings what the audience wants…a high energy Zeppelin concert with an honest, heart-thumping intensity.

Dubbed by the media as “The American Led Zeppelin,” Get The Led Out offers a

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strong focus on the early years. They also touch on the deeper cuts that were seldom, if ever heard in concert. GTLO also includes a special acoustic set with Zep favorites such as “Tangerine” and the “Battle of Evermore” being performed in

its original instrumentation.

GTLO has amassed a strong national touring history, having performed at major club and PAC venues across the country.

GTLO’s approach to their performance of this hallowed catalog is not unlike a classical performance. “Led Zeppelin are sort of the classical composers of the rock era,” says lead vocalist Paul Sinclair. “I believe 100 years from now they will be looked at as the Bach or Beethoven of our time. As cliché as it sounds, their music is timeless.” A GTLO concert mimics the “light and shade” that are the embodiment of “The Mighty Zep.” Whether it's the passion and fury with which they deliver the blues-soaked, groove-driven rock anthems, it's their attention to detail and nuance that makes a Get The Led Out performance a truly awe-inspiring event!

Each night the songs will vary making for two unique performances.

For more information about Get The Led Out, please visit www.GTLOrocks.com.

Photo courtesy of Lisa Schaffer.

724-938-7800 Visit the new SPUDS web site!

spudscalpa.com Follow SPUDS on Twitter @spudscalpa NEW Facebook Page: facebook.com/spudscalpa

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

Mental Health Spotlight with Fred Terling: Stigma versus Empowerment When I was first diagnosed with bipolar, only a handful of people knew. I really never thought about who all knew, certainly didn’t want my co-workers in that circle of knowledge. Then there was a long period of time where I was convinced, I was cured as I wasn’t given any follow-up nor meds after my hospital release. Then the relapse hit like a ton of bricks.

As I learned more and more about the condition and spoke with others in a group setting, this word “stigma” kept coming up. Perhaps because I am older or the way I have framed my acceptance, it’s just another word. I am the one empowering it.

Think of it in these terms. We live in chaotic times. There are far more important words like racism, inequality, misogyny, bigotry, fear, capitalism. Those words all carry heavy weight to me as I feel there is still, unfortunately, an oppression that is alive and well in this country and the world. People are still homeless, cities under fire, bombs dropping – all because of the color of their skin or religious beliefs. In that framework, my worry about what someone thinks about my mental condition, when I am the one who deals with it daily, seems irrelevant and tiny.

I learned long ago that how I deal with things is a direct result of how I frame the issue. For example, recently I took a ride without training wheels. My therapist was on maternity leave for three months and I hadn’t gone without a monthly appointment in over three years. There was a case worker on call temporarily until she returned. Of course, I could see him/her, but anyone who has had to change therapists knows how much that sucks. It’s starting the whole story over from scratch

while in the middle of the book, dredging up the same pain, trauma and memories.

Frustration is an understatement dealing with that process. Back to framing and empowerment.

Obviously, I had a choice. Looking at the situation, I thought about the aspects of one-on-one therapy and how it helps me.

For me, it’s basically a review of my month, recounting my highs, lows and how I react to triggers. Dissecting that need, I concluded that it is the sharing of my story that is the best medicine for me, especially if it helps others. Instead of putting on a bandaid with a temporary case worker, no disrespect to these trained professionals, I decided to get more involved in advocacy during my therapist’s absence.

I upped my advocacy work which blossomed into all of the various opportunities that have grown over the past two years.

From presenting to facilitating two recovery support groups to becoming a trainer, in my middle age, I believe I finally have discovered my authentic swing. It took a while, but I found by engaging things that I simply hadn’t previously considered, my

path chose me. If I let stigma hold me back, I definitely would not have felt empowered enough to take those steps.

As I undertake all of these things, however, I must remain cognizant of my condition. These goals are juicy, fertile ground for mania to take over and send me spiraling out of control.

That is one lesson I hold close from experience – Respect the condition.

Speaking of experiences, a little tease for what will be coming up in the Spotlight for next issue. State Representative Dan Miller will be hosting a Disability and Mental Health Summit on March 13th through the 15th, 2019 at the Beth El Congregation, 1900 Cochran Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15220.

The summit is free to attend and will include informative sessions and a resource fair to the public. There will be many sessions on a range of disabilities and mental health issues spanning from early intervention to adults/seniors. I will be interviewing State Representative Miller and will have full details, scheduling and session breakdowns in the February edition of Pennsylvania Bridges.

For now, mark your calendars to save the dates.

NEED HELP? IN THE U.S., CALL 1800-273-8255 FOR THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE. *Mental Health Spotlight is an opinionbased 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.

Save the dates for Cal U Theatre performances to be staged in the new year Edges – The Blaney Theatre --February 21, 22, 23 @ 7 pm, February 23 @ 2 pm Music and Lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul - Edges is the first musical attempt by award-winning composer/lyricists Benji Pasek and Justin Paul (of Dear Evan Hansen fame). Edges is a song-cycle about burgeoning adults asking coming-ofage questions. Mtishows.com Unexpected: A Selection of Symbolist Plays, Steele Hall Mainstage Theatre April 4, 5, 6 @ 7 pm, April 6 @ 2 pm -

One-act plays by Maurice Maeterlinck, Susan Glaspell, and Valery Bryusov will have you on the edge of your seat. As symbolist plays traditionally handle thought provoking content, our selections are sure to provide a night full of surprises.

Commit to the Bit: An Evening of Sketch Comedy and Improvisation. Steele Hall Mainstage Theatre – April 17 & 18 @ 7pm - Graduating senior Jeshua Myers, known to audiences for his portrayal of Ram (Heathers, the Musical) and Barfeé (The

Planning Your Own Funeral: Things to Consider To help relieve their families, an increasing number of people are planning their own funerals, designating their funeral preferences, and sometimes paying for them in advance. They see funeral planning as an extension of will and estate planning.

Funeral Planning Tips Thinking ahead can help you make informed and thoughtful decisions about funeral arrangements. It allows you to choose the specific items you want and need, and compare the prices offered by several funeral providers. It also spares your survivors the stress of making these decisions under the pressure of time and strong emotions. You can make arrangements directly with a funeral establishment.

An important consideration when planning a funeral pre-need is where the remains will be buried, entombed, or scattered. In the short time between the death and burial of a loved one, many family members find themselves rushing to buy a cemetery plot or grave — often without careful thought or a personal visit to the site. That's why it's in the family's best interest to buy cemetery plots before you need them.

You may wish to make decisions about your arrangements in advance, but not pay for them in advance. Keep in mind that over time, prices may go up and businesses may close or change ownership. However, in some areas with increased competition, prices may go down over time. It's a good idea to review and revise your decisions every few years, and to make sure your family is aware of your wishes.

Put your preferences in writing, give copies to family members and your attorney, and keep a copy in a handy place.

Don't designate your preferences in your will, because a will often is not found or read until after the funeral. And avoid putting the only copy of your preferences in a safe deposit box. That's because your family may have to make arrangements on a weekend or holiday, before the box can be opened.

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee), Jesh will combine his training in theatre and improvisation in this showcase.

An Evening of One Acts*** – The Blaney Theatre- May 2, 3, 4 @ 7 pm, May 4th @ 2pm. - Join us as we welcome our new crop of directors with this evening of one act plays ranging from laugh out-loud comedies to through-provoking dramas. ***Some subject matter may not be suitable for younger patrons.

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

Mariscotti Funeral Home 323 Fourth Street California, PA (724) 938-2210 (724) 322-0500 - Cell Anthony Mariscotti, Supervisor

19

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

Phipps committed to addressing climate change Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens announced the release of “Paris, Pittsburgh and Phipps,” a new three-minute video telling the story of the public garden’s evolution into a leadership role in the global movement to address climate change. The video is designed to supplement the “Paris to Pittsburgh” documentary, which had a premiere screening at the Conservatory and first aired on National Geographic Television. A 125-year-old glasshouse gem with a history of excellence in showcasing the beauty of the natural world, Phipps began its transformation into a climate change leadership role in the mid-2000s, becoming a recognized global platform to model and communicate sustainable ideals that now attracts nearly half a million visitors annually. In 2005 and 2006, Phipps opened three groundbreaking green facilities on its campus: the first LEED®-certified visitor center in a public garden, the first and only LEED®-certified production greenhouse (Platinum EBOM) and an energy-efficient 12,000-square-foot glasshouse that has no greenhouse effect and is 100% passively cooled. In 2012, Phipps reached new heights with the opening of the Center for Sustainable Landscapes (CSL), which was the first and remains the only facility in

the world to meet four of the highest green building standards: Living Building Challenge™, WELL Building Platinum, Four-Stars Sustainable SITES™ and LEED® Platinum. The CSL generates its own energy, treats its storm and sanitary water and is free from toxic chemicals. It was joined by the modular net-zero energy Nature Lab in 2015. Phipps is currently renovating a former public works building to complete a Living Campus that will showcase net-zero energy in new, modular and renovation projects on a single site.

In 2017, Phipps announced that it had reduced its carbon dioxide emissions from 2005 – 2016 by 56% per square foot, significantly exceeding the Paris Climate Agreement goal of a 26 – 28% reduction by 2025. Additionally, Phipps launched the Make the Switch at Phipps! Green Power Drive in 2017, allowing guests to switch to renewable home electricity during their visit and receive free membership to Phipps.

To date, more than 3,500 guests have switched; at the end of each year, these guests will have prevented 28,000 tons of CO2 emissions.

For more information on Phipps’ commitment to addressing climate change, visit phipps.conservatory.org/climatechange.

Lunch Buffet $6.50 a person Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Spend $20 & get a free egg roll Spend $30 & get free crab rangoon

344 3rd Street, California, PA Tel.: (724) 938-8888 or (724) 938-8500 Please phone your order in for quicker service OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Mon-Thurs 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Sunday 12 noon-10 p.m.

Stunning Textile Work on Display at Westmoreland Museum of American Art Circular Abstractions: Bull’s Eye Quilts, a touring exhibition that features some of the best machine-piecing and quilting being done today, will be on view at The Westmoreland Museum of American Art through March 10, 2019.

Organized by the Muskegon Museum of Art and curated by Nancy Crow, a renowned fine art quilt maker herself, Circular Abstractions displays 41 quilts by 32 artists who were challenged to create works that interpreted the bull’s eye pattern, traditionally a four-quadrant design with a bull’s eye at the center of each quarter.

Artists responded to the invitation by deconstructing and reassembling the bull’s eye into new compositions, resulting in a strikingly complex body of images, with each piece conveying its own distinct voice. Many of the artists maintain the quadrants, while others have circles that break those boundaries.

“I was drawn to this exhibition when it was first offered by the Muskegon Museum of Art because I was fascinated with the variety and complexity that the artists achieved by using a simple bull’s eye pattern,” said Barbara Jones, chief curator of The Westmoreland. “Speaking through the fundamental tools of art making—pattern, color, design, composition, rhythm, value and movement— these pieces communicate a host of impressions and narratives.”

“We are very excited for our visitors to experience this exhibition featuring some of the best fine artists working in textiles and pushing the boundaries of

quilt making,” said Anne Kraybill, the Richard M. Scaife Director/CEO of The Westmoreland.

Circular Abstractions: Bull’s Eye Quilts was organized by the Muskegon Museum of Art with Guest Curator, Nancy Crow. Travel is sponsored in part

by Bayer Crop Science.

This exhibition is made possible by the Hillman Exhibition Fund of The Westmoreland Museum of American Art, the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and through the generosity of our members and donors.

Related Events for Circular Abstractions:Artists Talk: Quilting in the Modern Era Sunday, January 13 > 2-3:30 p.m.

FREE Join us as quilters Stefani Danes and Shawn Quinlin lead a discussion about their experiences and perspectives as

fabric artists in the 21st century.

Quilting Workshop w/ Tina Brewer Sunday, January 20 > 1-4 p.m. $55 ($50 members) Tell your story through the creation of your own story quilt in this workshop led by internationally recognized fabric artist Tina Williams Brewer.

Sewing, Quilting and Fiber Arts Drop-In Events Sunday, January 27 > 1-3 p.m.

Sunday, February 24 > 1-3 p.m.

FREE Are you a quilting and sewing enthusiast? Curious about fiber arts? Bring your project or curiosity and enjoy the company of fellow quilters and sewers.

All skill levels are welcome and light refreshments will be served.

Members Tour: Quilts in the Vault Wednesday, February 20 > 6-8 p.m.

FREE (Museum members only) Join Chief Curator Barbara Jones for a walkthrough of Circular Abstractions, and then enjoy a special sneak peak of the Museum’s quilt collection in the vault.

Celebrating Quilts, Music and Movement Sunday, March 3 > 2-3:30 p.m.

FREE Join faculty and students from the dance, musical theater and music programs at Seton Hill University as they present a special performance inspired

by Circular Abstractions.

For more information on these programs, including RSVP/ticket purchasing, go to thewestmoreland.org/circular.

Armstrong launches The Talking Guide, a voice guidance feature on EXP Armstrong announced the launch of the Talking Guide, a voice guidance feature on EXP that will speak the text on your screen. This free new feature will make navigating of onscreen services and functions easier for customers with visual disabilities.

Talking Guide is available to all EXP customers. It covers functions such as program selection, channels, menus, settings, search and much more.

“We are very excited to be launching another great feature for EXP,” said Armstrong Vice President of Marketing, Dave Wittmann. “The

Talking Guide will make use of our services even easier for customers with visual disabilities.”

This new feature can be easily turned on or off by pressing and holding the “A” button on your EXP remote for at least 2 seconds. You’ll hear a voice say “Screen reader on” or “Screen reader off.”

Once it is activated, it will speak the text on your screen allowing for easier menu navigation and programming selection.

For additional information about Talking Guide visit

ArmstrongOneWire.com.

Armstrong provides industry leading high-speed internet, television, and telephone services to residential and commercial customers in Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, West Virginia, Maryland, and Kentucky.

As of Q3 2018, Armstrong is America’s 11th largest cable television provider, according to SNL Kagan, an offering from S&P Global Market Intelligence.

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

O PEN YOUR H EART & H OME 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.

21

Cultural Trust lauded for security practices

Pastor Dawn: Acknowledging the Relief

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is honored to be ranked in the top 10 of Security Magazine’s ‘Security 500 Ranking’ for 2018. This national ranking collects security metrics to evaluate an organization’s strengths and weaknesses in protecting and serving its guests. The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust ranked in section nine among other leaders in the hospitality and entertainment field, such as The Walt Disney Company, The Ritz-Carlton, MGM Mirage, and Hyatt Global.

According to Security Magazine, “The Security 500 tracks 20 vertical markets and collects unique data where appropriate (such as number of unique facilities in healthcare) and applies this data to key metrics. The key metrics collected this year include: security spending/person, security spending/revenue, and the number of security employees and officers.” The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust was measured and evaluated with other peer organizations in the nation, ultimately placing at number 10.

Chief Security Officer for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Kevin C. Wilkes has led the enhancement of Cultural District security over the past two years. Since joining the Trust in 2016, he has overseen implementation of a prohibited items list, a guest code of conduct, magnetometers, and bag checks.

To learn more about everything the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust does behind the scenes to keep guests safe, please visit TrustArts.org/Safety.

Partnership between the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police has facilitated even more awareness around security in the Cultural District,

My daughter and I sat to send out Christmas cards a few weeks ago. I enjoy this; some of the joy is derived because of the frugality of the bargain price I paid for the cards well past the holiday season last year, and I also get to think of all the people whom we send the cards. I pull out the old address book. My daughter wants to know how old it is – twenty-two years old now. I tell her, she should see her grandmothers address book if she thinks this one is old.

I start at the A’s. There on the first pages the memories begin as does the heartache that comes each year. Many of you know this same heartache. It is the heartache of grief, loss. Throughout that address book, I inevitably come across a name that I will have to decide whether this will be the year I erase or cross off the address. Most of the time, I do not cross off as it seems like the act of crossing off a name and address will add to the pain. So, I leave the name(s) in the address book for another year.

This year, I ventured into the contacts on my cell phone. My daughter has lost interest by this point. I am ever so thankful that this pain is not touching her this year. I scroll through the contacts, so caught up in the multitude of names, the memories, that I lose track of time and place. I delete several names of folks I worked with ten years ago.

I delete a phone number that is incomplete to JCPenney’s. And then, I see it. The name that I have not deleted in eleven years. She died eleven years ago. Maybe it was twelve.

Judy M. She was the churches treasurer and

including the Trust’s participation in the “If you see something, say something” campaign and creation of a Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Cultural District Substation in the Trust-owned Lantern Building.

“We’re always excited about providing amazing experiences and performances in the arts, while at the same time, increasing our ability to reassure our guests they are well-protected,” states Kevin C. Wilkes, Chief Security Officer of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. “We’ve made sure our new systems utilize the most current and effective screening technology without interfering with the arts experience, and have even added extra special perks and comforts for our guests.”

An example of these perks to keep a superior guest experience include a “Happy Half Hour,” which rewards guests for arriving early to pass through the enhanced security by giving them a 50% discount on all drinks and concessions. Also in 2018, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust hired a new group of Front of House Ambassadors; employees dedicated to answering guest questions and customer service inside and outside of the theaters prior to show time.

As always, none of this would be possible without the dedication of the Trust’s volunteers, who make up the usher corps, and vitally support the various festivals, galleries, and arts events in the Cultural District. Volunteers give their time selflessly and tirelessly to ensure the safety and enjoyment for all guests. Visit TrustArts.org/Volunteers to learn about our volunteer opportunities and join the team!

loved by everyone. She kept the position while she was sick and then when she became concerned she could not keep up with the work or would make a mistake, she asked for someone to take it over. I said I would. She passed the task on to me and shortly after, died.

I did not know her exceptionally well yet what I knew was that she took great care of the work of treasurer. Her bookkeeping was methodical and neat. Her handwriting was clear. Her files, well organized. She did her work as love for the Lord; even bookkeeping. And for twelve years, I just could not take her name out of my contacts. Judy M. I would have sent her a Christmas card. In it, I would write “Happy New Year!”

For everyone that is relieved that the holidays are over, may you know that you are not alone. The days by now are beginning to stay daylight longer. I say we boycott whatever that groundhog Phil predicts and hold on to the hope of Spring!

The scripture says, “blessed are those who mourn”. I have wondered about this. I have questioned this. I have asked about this.

And there in the lost time of scrolling through the contacts I know how blessed I am to have known Judy.

May peace and blessing be yours this day especially those who mourn or grieve.

Pax, Pastor Dawn

Citizens Bank Children’s Theater Series Schedule: Share the magic of theater with a child you love Your Alien– One day, you’ll be looking out your window when something wonderful comes your way… and you will want to keep him. Arts Power from the United States presents Your Alien, touching down with a stranded alien who strikes up a fabulous friendship with the boy who finds him. They go to school and have loads of fun together, but as evening approaches, the alien grows homesick.

Will the boy be able to figure out how to help his new friend? This funny and uplifting new musical shows how the power of true friendship can last a lifetime. Suitable for children & adults 3+.

Byham Theater, BUTLER REGION (Seneca Valley Intermediate High School), EAST REGION (Greensburg-Salem High School), NORTH REGION (Marshall Middle School), WEST REGION (Cornell High School), SOUTH REGION (Mellon

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Middle School) - January 6–14, 2019 Flight School the Musical–It’s the first day of Flight School, where they teach birds to fly. Penguin has the soul of an eagle and is ready to live on the wind, but he wasn’t built to soar, as the other birds constantly remind him. Penguin’s spirit won’t be grounded. With some friends of a feather, and a little help on the technical bits, Penguin follows his dream to flip, flap, and fly! Vital Theatre Company from the United States presents this show, based on the book from best-selling author Lita Judge. Suitable for children and adults ages 3+.

Byham Theater, BUTLER REGION (Seneca Valley Senior High School), EAST REGION (Greensburg-Salem High School), NORTH REGION (Marshall Middle School), WEST REGION (Cornell High School), SOUTH REGION (Mellon

Middle School) - February 17–24, 2019 Rosie Revere, Engineer–Ms. Greer's classroom includes three inquisitive outof-the-box thinkers. Theatreworks USA presents a fun, new musical based on the books Rosie Revere, Engineer, Iggy Peck, Architect, and Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty, which spotlights the STEM curriculum (focusing on science, technology, engineering, and math). Recommended for children and adults ages 4+.

Byham Theater, BUTLER REGION (Seneca Valley Intermediate High School), EAST REGION (Greensburg-Salem High School), NORTH REGION (Marshall Middle School), WEST REGION (Cornell High School), SOUTH REGION (Mellon Middle School) - March 31–April 7, 2019 Emily Brown and the Thing– Something monstrous is keeping Emily Brown awake...One evening, Emily

Brown and her old grey rabbit Stanley hear a Thing crying outside their window.

He just can’t get to sleep. Emily Brown and Stanley set off on incredible adventures to the Dark and Scary Wood, the Whirling Wastes, and beyond to find the Thing’s cuddly, his bedtime milk, and his medicine…but nothing seems to help him settle. What’s really troubling the Thing, and will anyone ever get to sleep?

Recommended for children and adults 3+.

Byham Theater - May 16–19, 2019 Accessible services are available.To purchase tickets, call (412) 456-6666, visit TrustArts.org/Kids, or visit in person at the Box Office at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue.

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Uniontown Art Club finds its own canvas at 86 W Main Street in Uniontown Story by Keren Lee Dreyer The Uniontown Art Club (UAC) - a place for art and artists since 1927 until recently held its monthly meetings in a free meeting space generously provided by the Uniontown Public Library. During those years, UAC members planned numerous events in the area, including annual shows at the Summit Inn, Farmington, PA. But without an appropriate space of their own, art sales, exhibitions, and regular artist-to-artist schmoozing were only a dream...until now, that is.

The Uniontown Art Club, 60 members strong, has come into its own with an official location at 86 W Main Street in Uniontown. Dubbed Gallery 86, the permanent space opens up worlds of opportunity for numerous artists of all locations, stripe, and medium. Importantly, it provides a face for Uniontown Art Club, which has seemingly been invisible since its inception.

“Before we talked about having a physical location, we would maybe have one art show a year” said Stephanie McClain, UAC President.

“We were lucky to meet Amanda (Voithofer, co-owner) at Summit Inn, and we started having shows about three times a year and were getting tourists and members of the community, and we figured out that if we had a location, we could educate people

about our existence, about our club, and artists could meet other artists and have a place to sell their work.”

Finding the new location was a five year process involving an extended hunt by club members, who searched Uniontown for a building to buy or rent. And when a photography studio, positioned between Rizz’s restaurant and Titlow Tavern and Grille, moved out, McClain and UAC board members knew what to do. Working with the Redevelopment Authority of the County of Fayette, they secured the location with “a great rate we were able to get as a non-profit, plus utilities.”

The biggest goal in finding a location was getting a place for local artists, McClain said. “Some people say they’ve never even heard of the club. But when you don’t have a physical storefront, it’s easy to miss.

We wanted to have a storefront for artists to display their work and meet other artists.” Now, Gallery 68 provides that, with much more being planned in the way of events, exhibitions, and sales.

In addition to its Summit Inn shows in May, July, and October, UAC is moving ahead with an exhibition space to provide artists with a resume-building private showing of

their work. The exhibition space could be rented by the week or just a weekend, while UAC will handle advertising and publicity. Non-member artists are also welcome. “We’ll probably get that rolling in the spring to give us time to advertise and to collect some artists” McClain said.

Other events on McClain’s community-building list include a ribbon cutting with the Chamber on May 3 (time tba), an open studio for people to come in during certain blocks of time to sketch or paint, community classes taught by local artists, a monthly art show (that also welcomes non-members) which will feature a different artist each month, and even antique appraisal events where,

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according to McClain “we’re going to actually have an appraiser come in. It will be $10 per ticket, per item, and he’ll give you an appraisal to see if it’s worth anything.” Antique appraisals are March 9, from 1-4 p.m. and September 8, 1-4 p.m.

Ultimately, McClain’s goal is “to have that environment where people can come and join the club, have events with the gallery, and have open work time...we have a variety of different types of art, from paintings, portraits, photographers, watercolorists, sculptors, potters, a blacksmith, and a wood carver. If anything makes us special and unique, it’s the variety of work we have and the quality of work we have.”

And the great news for art lovers is that most all of the works at Gallery 86 are available for purchase, meaning it’s now easier than ever to procure quality art in Uniontown while having the opportunity to meet with the artists creating those works.

Gallery 86 is staffed by art-loving volunteers, with operating hours on Monday through Friday from 12:305:30 p.m. Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Be sure to friend Uniontown Art Club at: facebook.com/ uniontownartclub/, or call 724-5507119 for information on membership, exhibitions, events, and more.

Check out McClain’s beautiful pottery work at Gallery 86, and order or commission at: https://www.facebook.com/shopforpottery/ “We’re always looking for new members,” McClain said, “and anybody is welcome to join us. Keep an eye out for the events!”

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Tropical Forest Cuba Exhibit Highlights Phipps Conservatory and Duquesne University Partnership Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and Duquesne University have joined together in a new collaboration that includes environmental research, in addition to programming, internship and engagement opportunities that will benefit students and the community as a whole.

“Through our partnership with Duquesne University, Phipps Conservatory continues to expand its environmental research capabilities and insights,” said Richard V. Piacentini, executive director at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

“We look forward to many exciting collaboration opportunities ahead as we bring our leading organizations together.”

The Phipps-Duquesne partnership is multi-faceted, with Duquesne students, fellows, research scientists and faculty involved in a range of expansive initiatives at Phipps. Students are currently gaining hands-on experience by participating in festival event programming in Phipps’ Tropical Forest Cuba. The exhibit invites guests to take an exciting, immersive journey through one of the most botanically rich rainforest regions in the world.

With new discoveries at every turn in Phipps’ impressive 12,000 square-foot, 60 foot high Conservatory, visitors will enjoy a wide variety of exotic Cuban plant species, in addition to interactive stations including a birding station featuring life-size replica carvings of endemic Cuban birds, a paladar where guests can recreate the

including Phipps in the new film.

Duquesne researchers and students are participating in “Meet a Scientist” days at Phipps, recently giving guests the opportunity to meet with Duquesne Ph.D. candidate Michelle Valkanas to learn about her groundbreaking research studies.

About Phipps: Founded in 1893, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh, PA is a green leader among public gardens with a mission to inspire and educate all with the beauty and importance of plants; to advance sustainability and promote experience of enjoying a Cuban meal in Phipps’ play café and a traditional Cuban farmacia where guests can learn about natural medicine rooted in organic farming.

“We are excited to partner with Phipps and help to bring the natural beauty and culture of Cuba to Pittsburgh,” said Dr. Philip Reeder, dean of Duquesne’s Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Sciences.

“New collaboration opportunities will facilitate research between post-doctoral fellows and research scientists at Phipps and faculty in the Bayer School, place Duquesne undergraduate student interns at Phipps and provide community engaged learning opportu-

nities for Duquesne students through special events and activities.”

Additional collaborations include: Duquesne research scientists are partnering with Phipps on a scientific study of Coqui frogs, a species of small tree frogs found throughout the Caribbean islands, including in Cuba, that are also located at Phipps. The new research will study the frogs at Phipps, including key factors affecting their survival and potential impacts on insect populations.

Duquesne's Dr. John Pollock is developing a documentary on mindfulness, compassion and yoga which will detail how human brains and bodies manage significant trauma and pain,

human and environmental well-being through action and research; and to celebrate its historic glasshouse.

Phipps commemorates its 125th anniversary throughout 2018, celebrating its historic past, vibrant present and exciting future ahead — including inspiring seasonal flower shows, community events, public programs and groundbreaking green innovation.

FMI: Learn more about Phipps at phipps.conservatory.org.

Photo by Paul G. Wiegman

Carnegie Science Center collaborates with Pennsylvania American Water for H2OH! exhibit Carnegie Science Center is thrilled to announce Pennsylvania American Water as the new sponsor of the Real-Time Data Monitor in the H2Oh!: Why Our Rivers Matter exhibit gallery. The generous $20,000 sponsorship supports one of the gallery’s most popular exhibits and creates more opportunities for the museum and utility company to bolster water science education at the Science Center.

“We are really excited to collaborate with Carnegie Science Center,” said Pennsylvania AmericanWater External Affairs Manager Gary Lobaugh. “This sponsorship broadens the reach of our waterfocused education efforts through

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one of the region’s premier education and visitor destinations.”

“With a myriad of challenges impacting the world’s water supply, it’s now more important than ever to instill in the public an understanding of water science,” said Carnegie Science Center Interim Director Jason Brown.

“Pennsylvania American Water shares the Science Center’s passion for educating the public about the environment, conservation, and why our rivers matter.

We appreciate their support in our mission to teach children and adults alike about water’s role in our

everyday lives.”

The Real-Time Data Monitor is a digital flat screen that generates real-time data from river monitoring systems. Visitors can see how the temperatures, pH, and water levels in local rivers fluctuate.

Pennsylvania American Water and the Science Center will also produce a series of short videos that highlight the vital role that water plays in everyday life. The videos, which will be shared via social media, include interviews with Pennsylvania American Water’s team of professionals,

as well as Science Center educators.

A Pennsylvania American Water customer appreciation event is slated for Sat., March 2 and Sun., March 3, 2019, during which Pennsylvania American Water customers and their families will enjoy savings on Science Center general admission.

“The appreciation weekend is a wonderful opportunity for our customers and their families to experience the importance of clean source and drinking water through fun-filled exhibits at a discounted price,” Lobaugh said.

For more information, visit CarnegieScienceCenter.org.

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Christmas House Challenge winners announced

“The Christmas House Challenge a fundraiser for the Brownsville Free Public Library, called it a wrap on Sunday the 16th of December...so we thought,” stated one of the coordinators, Margie McKinley. The houses were judged, the Change Challenge by the Brownsville Area Elementary School was over and sponsorship dollars were counted. The next day, a few calls were received requesting an extension to send a donation to our efforts so we decided not to announce the bottom line of this very successful community event until all donations are received.

We are happy to announce all the winners in this challenge. The top three winners for raising the most money for the library were in First Place: Emma Fertal (photo top left), Second Place: Michelle Hayduk (photo top right), Third Place: Carrie Kromer.

Other winners were judged by Kathleen Ward Hughes of Jerry's Catering and Charlie Perkins of the Route 40 Classic Diner. In the Individual category the Best of Show: Carrie Kromer; First Runner Up: inspired by Mrs. Chas McKinley and her dog Myrtle (photo bottom right);

and second runner up Candy Staggers.

In the Group category the Best of Show: Victoria & Jeannie Bremenour and Uncle Jerimiah; First Runner Up: Samuel & Karen Vollstedt; Second Runner Up: The staff of the Brownsville Library (photo bottom left). There was only one entry in the School category so the Best of Show goes to Brownsville's Mrs. Wright's Second Grade Class.

Renee Walmsley and Margie McKinley, the event coordinators extend their appreciation to the Brownsville community for their monetary support, the American Legion and Kevin and Heidi Kavanaugh for the use of their building and the Brownsville Elementary School for a successful Change Challenge. Many thanks to our sponsors; Redstone Pharmacy, California, State Representative Pam Snyder, WalMart, Army- Navy Store, California, Brownsville Ambulance, Dukman Distributors, Fayette Podiatry, Krause Department Store, NAPA Auto Parts, Rohland Family Dentistry, Soloman Auto Group, Anthony S. Dedola Jr. Esquire, Train Station Auto,and John Marchando Auto.

Monessen Historical Society January 2019 News The Monessen Heritage Museum will remain closed until January 9, 2019 to give our dedicated volunteers a welldeserved vacation. Beginning in January and lasting the winter months until midMarch, the Museum will not be open on Saturdays, except by special appointment.

Also, if planning to visit during the week, please call ahead to make sure someone is on duty, as our regular hours are weather permitting only.

The Board of Directors wish to thank everyone who participated in the Day of Giving.

Membership Renewal for 2019 and the annual fund appeal for the Greater Monessen Historical Society are underway. Please return your membership renewal, so we can update the records.

You are the reason for why we are here!

We depend on your generosity to sustain us and help us grow! Please be as generous as you can be. We need your donations to continue the Annex renovation work! Memberships cover the expenses of keeping the museum open and preserving local history. Gift memberships make great gifts! Individual memberships are $15 a calendar year with family memberships being $20.00.

Business memberships are $50.

The Mon Valley Genealogy Forum will not meet in January, due to the observance of the birthday of Dr. Martin

Luther King, Jr. GMHS is looking for individuals willing to present a lecture or program on local history or families in 2019. If interested, please contact the museum.

Do you have talents to share? Do you have spare time? Do you want to give back to the community? Do you enjoy history? If so, please consider joining our group and volunteering at the Museum. Call for details.

The Historical Society is also searching for interested individuals who are able to create models of well-known Monessen buildings that can be displayed inside the Monessen Heritage Museum.

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 Friday from 10 AM until 3 PM. The address is 505 Donner Avenue, Monessen, PA, 15062. The phone number is 724-684-8460.

#1 hit true crime podcast coming to Benedum Number one hit true crime podcast, My Favorite Murder, is coming to the Benedum Center on Friday, March 15, 2019 at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets are on sale to the public and can be purchased at TrustArts.org.

About My Favorite Murder - My Favorite Murder is the hit true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. Since

its inception in early 2016, the show has broken download records and galvanized a devoted “Murderino” fan base.

The show’s live tours are known throughout the world, selling out large theaters across the US, Canada, Australia, and Europe.

For additional information about My Favorite Murder, please visit MyFavoriteMurder.com.

Chamber Music at Old St. Luke’s Church February 17, 2019 – 2 p.m. - “Amor!”

Ballads and Fado - Chanteuse Daphne Alderson and the St. Michel Band March 24, 2019 – 2 p.m. - “A Bassoon Runs Through It” - Academy Chamber Ensemble with Bassoonist, Amy Baker April 28 – 2 p.m - “Contemporary Character for Flute and Clarinet” - PM

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Woodwind Project ~ Dr. Amanda Morrison - clarinet & Dan Parasky - flute Old St. Luke's Church is located at 330 Old Washington Pike Carnegie.

FMI: Call 412-969-7072 or visit m.facebook.com/ChamberMusicAtOldSt Lukes. Free admission. Donations are accepted and appreciated

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NOW PLAYING! Thursday, January 24 at 7:30 PM - Westmoreland Cultural Trust presents PHIL VASSAR $35, $40, $48 Country music hitmaker Phil Vassar is a piano-pounding powerhouse on stage whose reign of signature songs contains 10 No. 1 singles and 26 Top 40 hits, including “Carlene,” “Just Another Day in Paradise,” “Six-Pack Summer,” “When I Love You” and many more.

Vassar continues to churn out incisive, soulful lyrics and infectious melodies that capture the heart and soul in the unique and special way only he can.

Friday, January 25 at 8 PM Drusky Entertainment presents RODNEY CARRINGTON $39, $49, $59 ($6 additional per ticket day of show) Rodney Carrington is a multitalented comedian, actor, and writer who has recorded eight major record label comedy albums selling over 3 million copies. Rodney starred in his own TV sitcom Rodney, which ran for two seasons on ABC. Rodney has been one of the top ten highest grossing touring comedians for the last ten years and among the top 5 the last several years. He regularly performs to sold out crowds across the US

and Canada.

Saturday, January 26 at 8 PM - Cash Unchained presents CASH UNCHAINED - The Ultimate Johnny Cash Tribute with a special tribute to Patsy Cline by Cathi Rhodes - $20, $25, $30 From the early days with Sam Philips at Sun Records to the later years with Rick Rubin and American Recordings, Cash Unchained delivers a complete catalog of breathtaking music from one of the greatest country artists of all time. Performed by some of the finest musicians in the state of Virginia, James Tamelcoff captures Cash's trademark baritone voice, while his band delivers the infectious, driving rhythm of The Tennessee Three.

Sunday, January 27 at 2 PM Westmoreland Cultural Trust presents TAMBURITZANS Prism: Full Spectrum Culture $16, $20, $24 For more than eight decades, The Tamburitzans have traveled the country performing a vibrant stage show featuring exciting music, songs, dances and costumes of international cultures. Their new show takes “international culture” and separates it into the vivid and rich hues of heritages from around the globe. Through music, song and dance, “Prism – Full Spectrum Culture” transports audiences to the heart of a dozen countries and cultures, including Armenia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Greece, Ireland, Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia and Ukraine.

Saturday, February 2 at 7:30 PM - Big Time Entertainment, LLC presents ROOTS & BOOTS - An evening with: Sammy

Kershaw, Aaron Tippin, & Collin Raye - $68.50, $78.50, $88.50 Three of the voices that defined 90s country music – Sammy Kershaw, Aaron Tippin and Collin Raye – join forces in the Roots & Boots tour. Combined, the trio has amassed more than 40 Top 10 radio smash hits and sold more than 25 million albums. Don’t miss these iconic country artists as they come together to swap stories and perform their classic songs all on one stage.

Thursday, February 7 at 7:30 PM - Elko Concerts presents ABBA MANIA - $49.75 ($5 additional at the door) THE ORIGINAL TRIBUTE FROM LONDON’S WEST END, ABBA MANIA the tribute takes you back in time by recreating one of the world’s finest pop groups in a live stage performance. This highly polished and professional production has been delighting audiences of all ages since its formation in 1999, selling out UK theatres nationally.

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 8 at 8 PM FriendlyHart Productions presents SAL VALENTINETTI $39.50, $44.50, $54.50 Sal Valentinetti, the ItalianAmerican crooner known best for his flawless vocals, larger than life personality, and heart of gold, returns to The Palace. Sal saw success as a top 5 finalist on America’s Got Talent and has been touring the country and selling out venues of all sizes – from intimate jazz clubs to the legendary Madison Square Garden since. He continues to win

over the hearts of fans through his emotional and comical story-telling style performances Thursday, February 14 at 8 PM - Latshaw Productions presents TOMMY JAMES & THE SHONDELLS - $40, $50, $55, $60, $65 Crystal Blue Persuasion, I Think We’re Alone Now, Hanky Panky, Crimson & Clover, Draggin’ the Line, Mony Mony and Sweet Cherry Wine are just a few of the many hits from Tommy James. Tommy has accumulated 23 gold records, 9 platinum albums and over 100 million records sold worldwide. In addition to his 32 Billboard Hot 100 charting hits, of which many have been covered by artists around the world, his music is heard in 40 motion pictures to date and numerous tv shows and commercials.

Saturday, February 16 at 7:30 PM - Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra - HEART STRINGS Bartók: Rumanian Folk Dances - Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto - Chee-Yun, violin Beethoven: Symphony No. 4 $15, $29, $35, $37, $50 Violinist Chee-Yun’s flawless technique, dazzling tone, and compelling artistry have enraptured audiences on five continents.

Charming, charismatic, and deeply passionate about her art, Chee-Yun continues to carve a unique place for herself in the ever-evolving world of classical music. Chee-Yun plays a violin made by Francesco Ruggieri in 1669.

T H E PA L A C E T H E AT R E 34 West Otterman Street, Greensburg

Box Office: 724-836-8000 26

thepalacetheatre.org

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Liberty Magic is a space dedicated to elevating the art of magic. Special performances set for Feb/March The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is launching an immersive arts experience dedicated to the art of sleight of hand and prestidigitation, Liberty Magic. An experience, a place (811 Liberty Avenue), and an art form, Liberty Magic offers one-of-a-kind performances that are easy to access and hard to forget.

World-class magicians and performers gather at Liberty Magic, a parlour magic theater with less than 70 seats in four rows. The creative team behind Liberty Magic includes Scott Shiller, Vice President of Artistic Planning for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust as Producer, and magicians Dennis Watkins and Lee Terbosic serving as Artistic Advisors.

“As we continue to expand upon our repertoire of artistic offerings in the Cultural District, Liberty Magic is a perfect activation of the intimate storefront at 811 Liberty Avenue,” says Scott Shiller. “We are excited to see our expertise in the Pittsburgh arts community fuse with the art of close-up magic advanced by world-class magicians like Eric Jones, Dennis Watkins and Pittsburgh's own Lee Terbosic.”

Opening Liberty Magic for six weeks, February 6 - March 17, 2019, Eric Jones in IMPOSSIBLE will leave audiences in wonder as reality transforms into the unreal, coins multiply and cards fly. By the show's conclusion, guests will have been left in amazement by Jones' canny ability to blur the lines between reality and illusion.

In addition to serving as Artistic Advisor for Liberty Magic, Lee Terbosic is currently in the process of creating a brand new show, IN PLAIN SLEIGHT that will premiere in March. A 60minute performance of incredible magic, comedy, sleight of hand, illusion, mind reading, escape, and storytelling, IN PLAIN SLEIGHT will leave you wanting more. The audience becomes part of the performance with several opportunities to become part of the routines themselves and bringing an added dimension to the world of parlor magic. IN PLAIN SLEIGHT runs for eight weeks at Liberty Magic, from March 20 - May 12, 2019.

For more than 10 years, Eric Jones has made a name for himself in the world of magic. He has showcased at the worldfamous Magic Castle in Hollywood and Monday Night Magic, NYC's longest-

running Off-Broadway magic show, wowing A-list celebrities including Tobey Maguire (“I'd never play cards with you!”), John Mayer (“Incredible!

I've never seen anything like that before!”), and the judges on Season 12 of NBC's America's Got Talent, where he was named a top 12 semi-finalist (“You are a SUPERHERO! – Mel B.; “You are BRILLIANT! – Simon Cowell; “MINDBLOWING!” – Heidi Klum).

Lee Terbosic is a nationally-touring magician, comedian, actor, daredevil, and entertainer who makes Pittsburgh his home and base of operations. His newest project Houdini’s Last Secrets, a four-part television series, premieres Sunday, January 6 on Discovery's Science Channel. With the help of skilled engineers and one of Houdini's actual descendants, Lee looks to uncover the methods to Houdini’s magic and the science behind the madness. Lee has wowed some of Hollywood's biggest stars like Aaron Paul, Jack Black, Wiz Khalifa, and Johnny Depp. He has appeared on America's Got Talent on NBC, Four Weddings on TLC, and Now You See It on the BBC. On November 6, 2016, Lee performed his biggest stunt to date with Houdini100 in the Cultural District – a tribute to Harry Houdini's death-defying, upside-down straightjacket escape. His one-man show 52 Up Close at Hotel Monaco has established Lee as one of the most influential magicians in Pittsburgh. Lee joins the Liberty

Magic team as an Artistic Advisor.

In short, Liberty Magic is a space dedicated to elevating the art of magic.

Located at 811 Liberty, on the same block where Harry Houdini mesmerized Pittsburgh crowds in 1916, Liberty Magic is an intimate, speakeasy performance space dedicated to the art of sleight of hand and prestidigitation.

With less than 70 seats in four rows, the magicians and performers who appear at Liberty Magic offer you a one-of-a-kind experience that is easy to access and hard to forget.

Liberty Magic seating is general admission, priced at $40 per ticket.

Performances are: Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 5 and 8 p.m.,

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and Sundays at 6:30 p.m.

There is a special Skeleton Key VIP Experience for $65 reserved for the truly adventurous. The Skeleton Key VIP Experience unlocks the first two rows in our intimate theater, a chance to become part of the performance (if you wish) and an exclusive meet and greet with the artist after the show, which includes private, close-up mysteries. Members of the Skeleton Key VIP Experience also have the opportunity to purchase merchandise not available for sale to the general public.

The Liberty Magic experience is recommended for ages 18 and up, and no one under 12 will be admitted. Liberty Magic also offers a special space for private groups, corporate off-sites, staff member rewards, client entertaining, and many special occasions including anniversaries, birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and family gatherings.

Student, corporate, and group sales discounts are available for select performances. Visit TrustArts.org/Groups to learn more.

Liberty Magic is a BYOB speakeasy, and one of the most affordable in town!

Bring your own beer, wine, cocktails, or soft drinks to sip on while you are amazed by our world-class magicians.

There is a $5 per guest corkage fee.

While there is no dress code, we encourage our guests to get into the spirit with cocktail or party attire, making for an extra-special evening out. FMI: TrustArts.org/Magic

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

Storytime meets every Monday at 11:00 am for ages 30 months to 5 years.

TOPS meets every Tuesday, weigh-in is at 5 meeting starts at 5:30.

Coffee and Crayons meets every Friday at 10:30 am.

The library is closed Dec. 31.

CHARTIERS HOUSTON LIBRARY 730 W. Grant St., Houston PHONE: 724-745-4300.

One & Done Crafts and Cookie/Recipe Swap will be held Thursday, December 6 at 5:30 pm A Very Harry Holiday Party for families & children will be held Saturday, December 8 from 2-4 pm Adult Book Club will meet on Thursday, December 6 at 5:30 pm Adult Craft Night program will meet on Thursday, December 20 at 5:30 pm Yoga for Beginners class meets every Monday at 5:30 pm, cost is $1 per person Tuesday Toddler Tales Storytime for infants to 3 years old with Caregivers meets every Tuesday at 11:40 am until Tuesday 12/18 Lego Club meets every Tuesday at 5pm until Tuesday, 12/18 Writers Group will meet every Wednesday at 5:30 pm Preschool Storytime for children ages 3-5 and their caregivers will meet every Thursday at 11:40 am until 12/20 The library offers FREE individualized homework help for elementary school students and one on one computer training for anyone by appointment FMI, email lswanson@washlibs.org.

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FRANK SARRIS LIBRARY - 35 N. JEFFERSON AVE., CANONSBURG - franksarrislibrary.org The Library will be closed on December 31st and January 1st for the New Year’s Holiday.

Teen Advisory Board (grades 7-12) meet to plan, organize and lead activities that will engage and benefit members of the community. New members welcome. Monday 1/7, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Fiction Book Club will be discussing Tara Road by Maeve Binchy. New members always welcome! Wednesday 1/9, 1 p.m.

Nonfiction Book Club will meet for discussion on the topic the Romanov family and the last Russian Czar. A selection of books on this topic will be available at the main circulation desk.

Tuesday 1/22, 2:00 pm.

Genealogy Workshop will be hosted

by Ken Britten with participants learning how the local library can help them with their family history. In addition, attendees will learn how to uncover homestead records and military service.

The class is free but registration is required. The snow date for this workshop is Tuesday, January 29. The class will be held on Tuesday 1/22 at 3 pm.

Teen Writers’ Club (grades 7–12) will meet to write, share and support each other through the creative process.

Wednesday 1/23, 6-7pm.

New Resource: KANOPY a new film streaming service is now available at Frank Sarris Public Library. Kanopy is an on-demand film streaming service that allows library cardholders free access to start streaming films instantly. Films can be streamed from any computer, television, mobile device or platform by downloading the Kanopy app for iOS, Android, AppleTV, Chromecast or Roku. Kanopy showcases more than 30,000 of the world’s best films, including award winning documentaries, rare and hard to-find titles, film festival favorites, indie and classic films, and

world cinema with collections from Kino Lorber, Music Box Films, Samuel Goldwyn, The Orchard, The Great Courses, PBS and thousands of independent filmmakers.

With Kanopy, Frank Sarris Public Library cardholders will have access to more than 30,000 Films, for free! Take advantage of this fabulous resource by clicking on the KANOPY link in our RESOURCES tab on franksarrislibrary.org. Sign up to start streaming films instantly by creating an account, then entering your library card number when prompted after logging in. Frank Sarris Public Library cardholders can stream up to eight available movies per month.

Weekly Programs: Please note: Children’s programs will start back up Monday January 28, 2019.

Yoga Story Time - Stretch and be centered at this special yoga session for kids (and their grownups)! Mondays, 10:30-11:00 a.m.

Happy Monday! - Rise and Shine and greet the new week. All ages welcome!

Mondays, 11:15-11:45 a.m.

Madcap Mondays - Crafts, games, and science are just a few of the possibilities. Registration is required at the children’s circulation desk or by calling 724-745-1308 (option #4). Mondays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. for Grades 5-8 and 5:306:30 p.m. for Grades 2-4 Mother Goose Story Time - For infants up to 18 months with a caregiver. Tuesdays, 10:30-11:00 a.m.

Toddler Tales - Finger plays and songs based on simple concepts, repetition and lots of movement. Ages 2-3.

Tuesdays, 11:15-11:45 a.m Family Night - Stories, crafts, and games. New things to explore each week. Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Little Picassos - Every week is a new make and take creation. Ages 2-5.

Wednesdays, 10:30-11:00 a.m.

Story Time - Stories, finger plays and songs based on simple concepts, repetition and lots of movement. Ages 2-3 but siblings are welcome. Wednesdays, 11:15-11:45 a.m Wiggles and Giggles - - Bring your little ones to stretch, sing, and dance.

Ages 2-5. Wednesdays, 1:30-2:00 p.m.

Story Time - Provides active young children with stories, finger plays and songs based on simple concepts, repetition, and lots of movement. Fit for ages 2-3 but siblings are welcome.

Thursdays, 10:30-11:00 Wiggles and Giggles - Bring your little ones to stretch, sing, and dance. Ages 2-5. Thursdays, 11:15-11:45 More than A Story –Practice kindergarten readiness skills like listening during stories, making predictions, and following directions. Ages 5-6. Thursdays, 1:30-2:30 Super Science - Kids ages 3-7 and 813. Come have fun with Science!

Registration is required. Register at the children’s circulation desk or by calling 724-745-1308 (option #4). Thursdays, 5:30-6:15 Spanish Story Time - Story time favorites – stories and songs – in Spanish. Fridays 10:30-11:00 a.m.

For a complete listing of events and resources, please visit the Frank Sarris Library’s website at www.franksarrislibrary.org or call 724-745-1308 for more information.

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 via email to carla@pabridges. com or call us at 724-769-0123.

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MONESSEN PUBLIC LIBRARY - 326 DONNER AVE., MONESSEN - monessenlibrary.org Monessen Public Library & Cultural Center will reopen on Wednesday, January 2, 2019, following a short holiday break.

The Library will be closed on Monday, January 21, 2019, for the observance of the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Mon Valley Genealogy Forum will not meet.

If planning to participate in the annual Fund Drive, please return your donation envelopes as soon as possible. The Board of Trustees thanks all those who donated to the Library up to this point.

Knitting/Crochet Club will meet on January 9 and 23, at 6 PM. The Children’s Coordinator, Marsha Adams is looking for donations of plastic storage containers to organize the Children’s Programming items. The containers can be of various sizes. They

can be left at the Circulation Desk.

Children’s Program Schedule for 2019: StoryTime every Monday at 5:30 PM for ages 3-12.

Techie Tuesday for ages 10+ and Lego Club for ages 7+ at 5:30 PM. Baby Basics on Wednesday at 11 AM for ages 3 mos. To 3 years. Also, Toddler Time, at 1 PM, for ages 3 to 5.

Saturday STEM at 11 AM for all ages.

Wednesday, January 2, Birthday of Sir Isaac Newton, Jump in the Bouncy House to test Law of Gravity.

Saturday, January 5, National Bird Day, make a birdfeeder, 11 AM. Monday, January 7, Snow Day, snowball mini golf, at 5:30 PM. Wednesday, January 9, musical fun and games.

Saturday, January 12, STEM with large

blocks, at 11 AM. Monday, January 14, Dress up your Stuffed Animal for the parade, at 5:30

PM. Wednesday, January 16, Winnie the Pooh activities.

Saturday, January 19, Popcorn Day, movie and popcorn, 11 AM. Monday, January 21, LIBRARY CLOSED. Wednesday, January 23, Opposites Day, magnet experiments and fun.

Saturday, January 26, International Holocaust Remembrance Day, film “Paper Clips” for ages 12+ to adult, 11 AM. Monday, January 28, Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day, sensory walk, 5:30 PM. Wednesday, January 30, Backwards Day.

MONONGAHELA AREA LIBRARY - 813 W. MAIN STREET, MONONGAHELA - washlibs.org/monongahela Story Time: Story Times are held Tuesdays and Wednesdays 11 AM-12 PM. Ms. Becky reads with the children, completes a small craft, and incorporates some block play. Children 18 months and up are welcome to join the fun and socialize with others their age.

Writer’s Group: The Writer's Group meets the first and third Wednesdays of every month at the library to critique and encourage each other's writing.

Writing exercises are utilized and tips and advice are given to budding writers.

(January 2nd and 16th) Lego Club: The cornerstone of an aweinspiring creation begins with one small Lego. Turn your imagined palace, tower, or fort into a reality; come build with us!

The town will marvel at your projects displayed in the library. Each week will have its own theme! - Every Thursday 4:30-5:30 PM Basic Computer Classes: Need assistance using a mouse, browsing Facebook, conducting internet searches, or

Microsoft Word? The library can help!

One-on-one classes are on Fridays by appointment only. Stop by or call the front desk at 724-258-5409 to sign up today!

OsmoTime: OSMO is a award-winning game system that transforms screen time into healthy, hands-on, interactive play.

OSMO fosters learning in key areas such as: creative problem solving, art, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and common core. For children 4 and older. Parental supervision is required. - Every Saturday from noon to 2 PM Employment Help: Karen Wagner of the Mon Valley Initiative will be here every Monday from 12-2pm. Whether you are job searching or looking to switch careers, she is here to help. Karen can assist with resume and cover letter creation, job searching and applying, overcoming barriers to employment, and will conduct mock interviews. If it’s employment related, Karen can help! No

appointment necessary, just stop by!

Crochet Club: Bring your yarn, bring your hook and let's get our crochet on!

Join us to sit a while, chat, and work on your creations with fellow crochet enthusiasts Monday and Tuesday evenings from 6-8 PM. Hamilton the Musical Ticket Raffle: We are raffling off two Hamilton tickets (Orchestra seats). The show is on Wednesday, January 23rd at 7:30pm at the Pittsburgh Benedum. Raffle tickets are available for $10 and will be drawn on January 19th at 12pm. Proceeds benefit the Monongahela Area Library.

Nookworms: Pre-teens and teens ages 11-18 can join the fun of a book club!

The group meets to review and discuss themed books the second Monday of every month. For January the book is A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin.

- January 14th 4-5 PM Book Bites: Love reading and discussing books? Want to join a book club? The Book Bites group meets once a month

for a lively discussion of a pre-selected book. The January book is The Perfect Mother by Aimee Molloy. - January 17th 1-2 PM I Have A Dream Storytime: Join us for a special afternoon as we honor the late Martin Luther King Jr with dream related stories and block play. Children 18 months and up are welcome to join the fun and socialize with others their age. January 19th 1-2 PM Quilter’s Group: Have your pattern and blocks ready? Starting on Martin Luther King Day and running for 6 weeks, the local quilters group will be working on their creations at the library.

- January 21st & 28th from 6-8 PM STEM: Fortnite Towers: We challenge you to build the ultimate tower.

Complete our mini games to earn more materials to earn an advantage. For children Grades 3 and Up. Registration is required. January 22nd 6-7 PM The library will be closed Tuesday, January 1st.

WEST NEWTON LIBRARY - 124 N. WATER ST., WEST NEWTON - westnewtonlibrary.com The library is holding a Fill a Brown Bag for $5 book sale in our back room.

Paperbacks, children’s books, hardback and large print hardback. All the shelves are full and there are boxes filled on the floor. Ask the volunteer at the desk for a bag.

Since culling our old books, the Large Print section is very bare, If you are fin-

ished reading your large print books, please consider donating them to our library so others may enjoy reading them. They may be dropped off during our regular hours or phone if we possibly can, we will arrange pickup.

Ongoing projects are welcoming donations of used jewelry, rings, earrings bracelets necklaces, pins, watches

for our upcoming 2020 jewelry sale, and used books for our July book sale, newer hardcover books, paperbacks and DVD's for our patrons that we can catalog and add to the reading shelves.

Remember, library cards are free!

Come in with identification and join the library. Winter is coming, curling up with a good book or a DVD to watch is

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

right around the corner.

A wonderful way to honor a loved one or a funeral are Memorial Book donations of $25. We purchase the item requested and place a memorial page inside the front cover and notify the person being honored.

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EVA K. BOWLBY PUBLIC LIBRARY - 311 N. WEST ST., WAYNESBURG - evakbowlby.org The library will also be CLOSED Tuesday, January 1, for New Year's Day, and Monday, January 21, for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. CREATIVE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS – January 3, at 5:00 pm. Winter Project TBA. Cost for materials: $20. Please call library for more info at 724.627.9776.

NEW PROGRAM!! ART CLASSES for Teens & Pre-teens, every Tuesday & Thursday in January at 5:30-6:30pm.

Learn the basics, use different mediums, plus more!! First meeting is Thursday, January 3. Call to preregister at 724.627.9776 LEGO BRICK MASTERS - Saturdays, January 5 and January 19 @ 11am PUPPETWORKS / WRITE ON! Saturday, January 12, 2019 - Pittsburgh Puppetworks/Write-On! Contest Kickoff 11:00 AM TEEN ADVISORY GROUP – Tuesdays, January 15 and January 29 @ 5pm - Teens ages 13-18 are invited to come to the library and hang out!

Bring a friend!

READING COMPETITION TEAM Library is seeking kids who LOVE to read to join our Reading Team for competition in May! Join us on Tuesday, January 15 @ 6:00pm PIE & BINGO - Launching a new program in the New Year for all patrons!

Join us for Pie & Bingo on Friday, January 18, 6:00-8:00pm. Library will supply all items needed including prizes!

Call to register at 724.627.9776 AFTER-AFTER HOURS FOR TEENS “Fantastic Beasts!” themed event for teenagers on Saturday, January 19, 2019, 4:00 - 8:00 PM AMERICAN RED CROSS - Volunteer Information Session, Thursday, January 24 @ 5:30-6:30pm.

Learn the different ways you can help out in your community!

WRITE-ON! YOUNG WRITERS MEETING - Thursday, January 24, 5:00 - 6:00pm AFTER HOURS - Harry Potter Fun Night, Friday, January 25, 4:00-8:00pm NEW PROGRAM! COOKBOOK CLUB - Do you like to try new recipes, make new friends? Join us on the first meeting of this new program Monday, January 28 at 6:00pm. We'll be planning our agenda for the year!

MOVIE NIGHTS @ THE LIBRARY – Enjoy a movie here at the library every Wednesday evening beginning at 6:00 p.m. FREE popcorn and beverages!

KNITTING CLUB - The Knitting Club meets 2x a month on the second & fourth Fridays - January 10 & 24 @ 10am-12pm. All skill levels welcome!

BOWLBY BOOK CLUB - meets on the 2nd Monday of every month at 6:00pm. New members are always welcome!

Call or stop in Eva K. Bowlby Public Library for more info or to register for any of the above events.

724-627-9776 • 311 N. West St., Waynesburg, PA 15370

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CITIZENS LIBRARY - 55 S. COLLEGE ST., WASHINGTON - washlibs.org/citizens JANUARY HOLIDAY CLOSINGS- all day Tuesday January 1, 2019 and all day Monday January 21, 2019 for MLK DAY. Readers of the Lost Ark Book Club: “The Couple Next Door”by Shari Lapena, meeting Thursday, January 17, 2019 Conference Room, Free and open to the Public –Feel free to bring a snack!

Citibooks: used bookstore open 10-6 Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays and 10-4 on Saturdays, the lower level of the library. 1/2 price sale for the entire month of January on selected books categories, cookbooks, diet books, exercise, health & self-help. The bookstore will be closed during the month of February Adult Book of the Month for January: “Killing of SS by Bill O’Reilly.

Lego Club-Monday Jan 14th and 28th, 5-6, open to all ages Citizens Library Presents: Hitler and the Habsburgs: The Fuhrer’s Vendetta Against the Austrian Royals By James Longo. James Longo is Professor of Education and Education Department chair at W & J College. He is a former

Fulbright Scholar, Distinguished Chair of the Gender and Women’s Study Program at Alpen-Adrian University in Austria, and has lectured throughout Europe and America. His 2008 book, Isabel Orleans-Braganza: The Brazilian Princess who Freed the Slaves was nominated for the Yale University Gilda Lehman Frederick Douglass Book Prize for the “most outstanding non-fiction book in English on the subject of slavery and abolition. “He lives in Washington, Pennsylvania.

Crochet: First and Third Tuesday in Jan. 6-8 PM. Free & open to the Public Yoga: Every Monday and Thursday in Jan. 5-6 PM, 9 week series $75 or $10 per class Registration starts Tues., Jan 8 for Winter session of “Play & Learn” for ages 1-3. Play & Learn will be four Thursdays, Jan 24 & 31 and Feb 7 & 14, from 1:00-2:00 Registration starts Tues., Jan 29 for Spring sessions of Toddler and Preschool Story Times, which will begin in February.

University ranked in the top 5 percent for value Waynesburg University was recently recognized as a “Best for the Money” school by College Factual for the third consecutive year.

Ranked at No. 20 out of the 1,510 schools considered, Waynesburg placed in the top 5 percent nationwide.College Factual ranks schools for best value by estimating the actual average cost for an undergraduate degree, using the quality results from the best colleges ranking and personalized factors, such as location, cost and financial aid.

Waynesburg also placed in the top 5 percent for value in the Middle

Atlantic region, ranked at No. 3 out of 289 schools. In the state of Pennsylvania, of the 112 schools on the list, Waynesburg was ranked No. 2.

The University was recognized nationally as a top 1 percent “Best Value” for Nursing, ranked at No. 4 out of the 500 school nursing programs ranked for value. Additionally, Waynesburg was awarded a top 5 percent “Best Value” standing for Communication & Journalism, Criminal Justice and Psychology.

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PARTING SHOTS Send original photography for consideration for use in “Parting Shots” to carla@pabridges.com. Photos selected will be determined according to space and subject matter.

On Saturday, February 2, 2019, the Frosty Frolic River Romp celebrates its sixth anniversary by hosting more river jumpers than ever before. Walter MacFann, Frosty Frolic Committee Chairman, estimates that between 75 to nearly 100 sponsored jumpers will take the plunge on that day. Details on page 15.

Get The Led Out returns to bring the studio recordings of “the mighty Zep” to life on the concert stage. Presented by Westmoreland Cultural Trust, the band will perform Friday, January 18, 2019 and Saturday, January 19, 2019 at 8 PM at The Palace Theatre in Greensburg. Details on page 18.

Liberty Magic. An experience, a place (811 Liberty Avenue), and an art form, Liberty Magic offers one-of-a-kind performances that are easy to access and hard to forget. World-class magicians and performers gather at Liberty Magic, a parlour magic theater with less than 70 seats in four rows. Details on page 27.

Carrie Kromer won “Best in Show”at the Christmas House Challenge held in December to benefit Brownsville Free Public Library. For a full list of winners and some photos of the winning houses, see page 25.

Photos by Margie McKinley, one of the co-founders of this inaugural event.

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