171 Locust Avenue Ext. • Mt. Morris PA 15349
724-324-2205 F: 724-324-2220
President’s
Message Welcome to Waynesburg—a town full of history, tradition and great opportunities. Waynesburg has a charming hometown atmosphere in which everyone feels welcome whether you’re a visitor, new business or longtime resident. This is the third edition of this publication and it covers the town of Waynesburg as well as the surrounding Greene County area. Locally referred to as the “Greene Book,” due to the color of the cover, we feel that this title is also a reflection of the content as well. The “Greene Book” is meant to be a snapshot of the entire Greene County area. As you read through this book, we hope that you enjoy the beautiful, locally-shot photographs and detailed articles on life in Waynesburg and Greene County. In the pages that follow, you will find a wealth of information including our proud history, tourist attractions, entertainment, sporting events and information on the abundant supply of natural resources available in the County. The Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce publishes the “Greene Book” as a resource to the community—for visitors,
new residents and new businesses alike. Over the years, the Waynesburg Chamber has found that this book has been a valuable asset to those aforementioned individuals, as well as to our membership. The Waynesburg Chamber has around 300 members who serve the greater Waynesburg business community. The Chamber provides community services through various events, service projects and works to enhance the economic development and overall quality of life in the Waynesburg area. Our members are able to take advantage of the many opportunities we provide, such as networking sessions, featured speakers and special seasonal events. These events are of invaluable assistance for the community by helping promote the many businesses and organizations associated with the Chamber. Some of the events that the Chamber holds include an annual golf outing, a business expo and a membership banquet. Not only do these events offer a great time, but they also provide valuable networking opportunities with local business and community leaders. Waynesburg has a charming hometown feel, is rich in opportunities and is within close proximity to several major cities on the East Coast. Welcome to Waynesburg—we invite you to experience all that our community has to offer. By Alan Laick – Owner, Laick Design & President of the Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
This is a Village Profile® Publication
Table of
Contents Inside Front Cover President’s Message
created and produced for the Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce 143 E. High Street • Waynesburg, PA 15370 Phone: (724) 627-5926 • Fax: (724) 627-8017 Website: www.waynesburgchamber.com E-mail: waynesburgchamber@windstream.net Copyright© 2010 VillageProfile.com, inc.® 33 N. Geneva St., Elgin, IL 60120 • 800-600-0134
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Community Introduction
www.villageprofile.com® Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy
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History
of the information in this publication. The Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce and VillageProfile.com® assume
Location & Transportation
no responsibility for misinformation. Please contact the Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce with any additions or corrections. Reproduction in whole or in part without
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Tourism
permission of the Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce
Housing & Real Estate
CEO/President Daniel M. Nugara
and VillageProfile.com® is prohibited.
Executive Vice President Joseph C. Nugara, Sr.
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Arts & Entertainment
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Rain Day
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Sports & Recreation
Director of Business Operations Michael D. Nugara Vice President Gordy Swinehart Acquisition Manager Gayle Bohman Project Sales Manager George Schmidtetter Project Coordinator Kiwanda Evans
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Education
Director of Production Joseph C. Nugara, Jr. Production Manager Nick Olah
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Shopping
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Business, Industry & Agriculture
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Healthcare
Creative Director Sarah Kavanagh Graphic Designer Kirsten Riedl Graphic Production Stacey R. Cordero Ad Coordinator Director Stefanie Mikutis Ad Design Manager Kerri Reaves
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Worship
Managing Editor Becky Cline Writers Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce, Alan Laick,
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Government
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Index of Advertisers
Cindy Bailey, Bobby Fox, Steve Barrett, Joy Eggleston, David Crowe Photographers Cindy Bailey - GreeneSpeak Publications, Pam Blaker - Direct Results/The Greene Saver, Jack Graham, Jerry Hardy, Melody Longstreth - Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce
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Community
Introduction he best of both worlds is what you will find in Waynesburg. A small-town atmosphere and a sense of belonging to a community is what awaits you here. Newcomers are welcomed with open arms and quickly become old friends.
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In a fast-paced world where communication is instantaneous, you can slow down a bit and relax in Waynesburg. Folks pass you on the street and call you by name. Friends chat on the courthouse steps or at the local grocery store. But the highspeed connection to the world is alive and well here and can be accessed at a moment’s notice.
With the educational opportunities here in the county and in neighboring ones, we are educating our youth to become tomorrow’s leaders right here at home. It has been said many times that Waynesburg is a wonderful place to raise a family and that it is. Our rural agriculture heritage makes this a place like no other. The lifestyle is flavored by the past but is growing and embracing the future. With 400,000 square acres of rolling wonderland, Greene County stands as an enchanting balance between Revolutionary War history and revolutionary planning for the future. By Melody Longstreth, Executive Director of the Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce
Our Glass
We are proud of a historic downtown with second and third generational retail businesses, but are embracing a new economy with new industry poised to move into our area.
CREATIONS Beth Day Stained Glass Artist
Karen Calvert Mosaics / fusing
106 E. High Street Waynesburg, PA 15370
724-627-7167 ourglass2.com www.waynesburgchamber.com •
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LOCAL CONNECTIONS Cable Television: Comcast – (800) 266-2278 Deeds/Wills: Greene County Courthouse 10 East High Street, Waynesburg – (724) 852-5283 Driver’s Licenses: Examination Point – (724) 627-8626 Electricity: Allegheny Power – (800) 255-3443 Garbage Collection: Waste Management – (888) 964-8724 Vieola – (800) 437-1759 Gas: Columbia Gas – (888) 460-4332 Equitable Gas – (800) 654-6335 General Information Inquiries: Chamber of Commerce 143 East High Street, Waynesburg – (724) 627-5926 Marriage Licenses: Clerk of Courts 10 East High Street, Waynesburg – (724) 852-5282 Registration/Titles: PA D.O.T. Center – (800) 932-4600 Photo Identification – (724) 852-1914 Sewage: Franklin Township Sewer Authority – (724) 627-9728 Waynesburg Waste Water Facility – (724) 627-5406 Telephone: Windstream Communications Residential – (866) 445-3402 Business – (800) 843-9214
Community Foundation of Greene County P.O. Box 768 Waynesburg, PA 15370
E-Mail: cfgcpa@gmail.com Web Site: www.cfgcpa.org
Office: 724-627-2010 • Fax: 724-627-2011 “Our mission is to strengthen Greene County by building charitable endowments, maximizing benefits to donors, making effective grants and providing leadership to address community needs.”
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Voting: Board of Elections 93 East High Street, Waynesburg – (724) 852-5230 Water: Southwestern PA Water Authority – (724) 627-7445 or (724) 883-2301 Note: The area code 724 must be dialed even from another 724 number
A Rich Heritage
History
n act of the Legislature passed on February 9, 1796, divided Washington County into two counties—the southern division became Greene County, named for Revolutionary War General Nathanael Greene. Permanent settlement began in Greene County in 1764 after the last major conflict with native Indians. Two forts were constructed in 1774—Jackson’s Fort and Garards Fort—which were built to protect the isolated homes in the area from attacks.
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Colonel John Minor, a sponsor of the bill that gave birth to the county, is called the “Father of Greene County.” A board of trustees was authorized to buy a tract of land near the center of the county to establish a county seat and to build a courthouse and jail. According to a deed dated October 28, 1796, the trustees bought 158.5 acres of land called “Eden” from Thomas and Eleanor Slater for $2,376. The board named the new seat Waynesburg, after General “Mad” Anthony Wayne, to honor his success in leading the army in claiming the Northwest Territory (Ohio) in 1794. On October 27, 1796, exactly 201 lots were offered for sale through an advertisement in a Pittsburgh newspaper. Prices ranged from $5 to $139 per lot. A log courthouse and jail were erected (the courthouse still stands and has been fully restored). Apparently, the first store was established by William Crawford, who had purchased a “load” of goods from a settlement along the Monongahela River in the early 1800s and began trading. Transportation of merchandise from Baltimore and Philadelphia was a long and costly undertaking and the local residents had to pay ridiculously high prices for necessities like salt, tea, coffee, hardware and manufactured articles. There were 80 dwellings in Waynesburg in 1853 and the town had grown to 350 by 1906. Today, Waynesburg and Franklin Township, which encircles Waynesburg, has a population of 11,800. Greene County contains 577 square miles and has a population of 40,672 in six boroughs and 20 townships. Mining and sheep ranching were the major industries of Greene County and were responsible for the county’s days of prosperity. Before World War II, Greene County was the largest producer of merino wool in the country. The steep terrain was better suited for sheep than cattle and there were said to be more sheep than people in the county at that time. Today, that history is celebrated with a Sheep and Fiber Fest that takes place each May. Live demonstrations, crafts, entertainment and food abound, along with a breed pavilion, herding demonstration and a “Sheep to Shawl” competition.
www.waynesburgchamber.com •
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The Best of Both Worlds
Location & Transportation aynesburg offers the best of small-town American life as well as convenient proximity to culture, entertainment, sports and higher education opportunities. Situated in the center of Greene County, with its rolling hills and forests that put on a brilliant display each fall, Waynesburg serves as the connector to dozens of interesting cities and towns in all directions.
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Due north, the mid-sized city of Washington is about 20 minutes away, and you can be in downtown Pittsburgh perusing the dinosaur exhibits at Carnegie Museum, cheering on the Penguins or watching ballet at the Benedum within an hour via Interstate 79. The interchange is just 1.5 miles east of Waynesburg Borough and the Pittsburgh International Airport is just one hour away.
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To the south, Morgantown, WV, is less than 20 miles down the road, via I-79 South, home of the West Virginia University Mountaineers, as well as numerous restaurants and shopping opportunities. Route 21 East will take you to Uniontown in 40 minutes, where historic Route 40 cuts through the mountains to nearby Fort Necessity National Monument and Park. Another 30-minute drive will bring you to Connellsville where you can hop aboard an Amtrak train and chug through the scenic Cumberland Mountains to points southeast, including Washington D.C. in less than six hours. By Cindy Bailey, Editor/Publisher – GreeneSpeak Publications
To the west, in the West Virginia panhandle, the first stop is Wheeling, only 40 minutes from here via I-79 and I-70. I-79 and I-70 will then connect you to Holmes County, the heart of Amish Country, within three hours, and Cleveland in half a day. Waynesburg is the kind of place where you want to raise a family and the closeness to several cities has made it an ideal home for commuters. The schools here are small enough for every child to get a great foundation, but also to have a chance to be an active player on a ball team, serve as an officer with their Student Council or receive personal instruction in music and the arts. Numerous higher education choices lie within a 50-mile radius, including our own Waynesburg University, Westmoreland County Community College and SAGE Tech, as well as Washington and Jefferson College in Washington, PA; California University in California, PA and Penn State, Fayette Campus
Waynesburg Locator Map
in Uniontown. In Pittsburgh, popular choices include the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, the Culinary Institute and the University of Pittsburgh. Numerous small, private colleges, such as Grove City and Geneva, are also located within a four-hour drive. City dwellers from nearby metropolitan areas often move to Greene County in retirement. The lifestyle here offers plenty of shopping, dining and community service opportunities but less traffic and shorter lines at the grocery store. The bonus is that folks are close enough to maintain their ties with former colleagues and professional organizations. Waynesburg is one of those rare communities that has maintained an old-fashioned, small-town flavor through its 200-plus-year history. Many residents feel that the nearby metropolitan areas are a nice place to visit, but they are glad to call Waynesburg their home.
Western Pennsylvania Locator Map
www.waynesburgchamber.com •
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Come See the Different Shades of Greene County
Tourism iscover Waynesburg and surrounding Greene County, PA and discover a world of history, agritourism and outdoor recreation. Greene County is where northern charm and hospitality come together with a rich history and wild beauty. From the unique shopping and dining in historic Waynesburg, to the natural beauty of the trails and woodlands surrounding the Monongahela River, there’s something for everyone.
Fairgrounds, you will find the Foundation Coal Aquatic Center, featuring slides, a lazy river and food available at the Greene Grille, everyone is sure to have a great time!
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Enjoy the great outdoors with scenic bike rides, hiking, kayaking, golfing, hunting and fishing. You can enjoy the simple pleasure of relaxing at a peaceful bed & breakfast or visiting one of our many farms. Tour the stately churches, distinguished homes and quiet country roads scattered throughout the landscape. With its abundant festivals, events and activities, there is always something fun and interesting for the whole family to enjoy. Some of these include Rain Day and the Fifties Fest & Car Cruise—right in downtown Waynesburg! Waynesburg is also home to the Greene County Fairgrounds. Here you can attend the Annual Buckin’ B Cattle Company Championship Bull Riding Competition, the Annual Sheep & Fiber Festival, the Black Diamond Cluster Dog Show and the Greene County Agricultural Fair, just to name a few. Across from the
Back Alley Shoppe Anita Vitolo Tue-Fri 10-4 • Sat 11-2 • Closed Sun & Mon
724-998-8933 242 East Elm Street Waynesburg, PA 15370 8
• www.waynesburgchamber.com
Downtown Waynesburg is home to several unique eateries. Have traditional tea in a beautiful Victorian home at Sisters 4 Tea. If you like barbeque, be sure to check out Hot Rod’s House of Bar-B-Que. If you’re craving a serious sandwich, stop by the South Side Deli. For some traditional home cooking, check out the College Town Diner. If takeout and delivery are more your style, pizza from Domino’s and Chinese food from Lam’s Garden are always great options. For the shopaholic, downtown Waynesburg will not disappoint. Specialty shops, like Our Glass Creations, the Artisan’s Gallery, Grandma’s Attic, the Perfect Arrangement, the Frame-Up & Gallery, Locker Room, Fashion Shop and Mickey’s Men’s Store, are must-sees. The Waynesburg area is a visitor’s delight! Visitors can use Waynesburg as a launching point for other attractions in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Learn more about Greene County by visiting www.greenecountytourism.org.
The
Airport Restaurant...
at the Greene County Airport
• HOME-MADE STYLE COOKING • HOME-MADE PIES & CAKES • BREAKFAST SERVED ALL DAY A FAMILY RESTAURANT
724-627-8207 417 East Roy Furman Highway, Exit 14 off I-79 - Waynesburg, PA
Free Farm Tours Alpaca Sales Owner Seminars Breeding Alpaca Store • Clothing • Stuffed Animals • Accessories • Yarn
724-852-4084
Lippencott Alpacas Open by chance or appointment 265 Meadowbrook Road Waynesburg, PA 15370 www.lippencottalpacas.com
724-627-TOUR (8687)
Call for More Information on Becoming a Member!
www.greenecountytourism.org
Greene County Tourist Promotion Agency Greene County Commissioners Pam Snyder, Chair - Dave Coder - Archie Trader www.waynesburgchamber.com •
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A Place to Call Home
Housing & Real Estate f you prefer a casual lifestyle, Waynesburg is your kind of place. Most of the residents enjoy small-town or country living, but they also like the idea of having the advantages of the big city close by. When people return to their homes at night, they feel secure in knowing that they are living in one of the most crime-free areas in the nation. Housing needs have grown in recent years and are in the midst of another growth spurt, but the area retains a warm and inviting neighborhood feel.
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Waynesburg is a quiet, charming county seat with a sense of its historic past and a solid future. City fathers in Waynesburg recognized their city’s possibilities and acted to preserve them in setting up the Historic District, a Victorian-style downtown area that encompasses 61 acres (almost 15 percent of the entire borough) and includes the campus of Waynesburg University. A
THWOO R D NO RE A
LTY
C SERVI
ES
ST WAY HOME, GO NORTHWO SM THE BE OD R O F
NORTHWOOD REALTY SERVICES 224 Elm Drive Waynesburg, PA 15370 Phone 724-627-4300 Fax 724-627-4303 www.northwood.com
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day spent walking through the business and residential districts will offer many excellent examples of charming, turn-ofthe-century architecture. In 1999, the Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce began an effort to create a “Main Street” program through the National Main Street USA office and Waynesburg Prosperous & Beautiful, Inc. was born. Named after a 1900 publication that featured photographs of many of the beautiful homes in the area at that time, the organization works to bring shoppers into downtown and to assist with the historic preservation and beautification of the area. Whether you prefer one of the Victorian homes that abound in the area or a more contemporary house in a modern and convenient development with underground utilities, there is housing available for nearly every taste and budget. New homes are off the beaten path on beautiful wooded parcels and farmland. The local housing market is comprised mostly of existing homes in a wide variety of styles from Italianate and Georgian to ranches and modern designs. Several apartment buildings are available for families and some are specifically available for the elderly population. Many beautiful older homes are also available as rentals. Water, electricity and gas utilities are abundant and competitively priced. For those contemplating the construction of a new home, there is a tax abatement program available to new residential construction and commercial construction. Under the program, real estate taxes related to improvements on the property will be abated for three years in resident instances and five years in commercial instances.
Victoria Square Complex 95 E. High Street • Waynesburg, PA
Residential Rentals Commercial Office Suites Climate Controlled Self Storage
724-344-1535
Arts & Entertainment Something for Everyone
aynesburg boasts a renovated, old-fashioned movie theater (housed in a historic building) that serves up current movies, many on their opening days. In addition to the traditional movie snack of popcorn, moviegoers can enjoy pizza, hot dogs and nachos. Local theater productions also call this unique building on High Street home.
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Waynesburg University hosts a full schedule of cultural events year-round. Some are held in the beautiful Center for the Performing Arts, located off of Johnson Commons in the middle of the campus. Art shows, musical performances, live theater and guest speakers are just a few events to choose from. Most are free and open to the public. The Eva K. Bowlby Public Library on North West Street is a modern library in a beautiful old home. It has large adult and children’s collections, records and microfilm. The Cornerstone Genealogical Society offers a large genealogical collection in its headquarters, located in the restored, original log courthouse on Greene Street. Dating from 1796 and said to be the oldest log courthouse standing on its original site in the country, the original two-story log structure is home to the Society’s collection of 3,000 books, more than 350 rolls of microfilm of early newspapers, numerous vertical files and scrapbooks.
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The Greene County Historical Society Museum, located on Old Route 21 three miles east of Waynesburg, is a 52-room structure that dates from 1861. It contains antique furnishings, tools, quilts, pottery, Indian relics and other memorabilia. Visitors can follow nature trails, have a picnic lunch and visit reconstructed log cabins on the 12-acre grounds. The last surviving steam engine of the Waynesburg and Washington Railroad can also be seen outside the museum. The Harvest Festival, organized by the Historical Society, is held annually in October on the museum grounds and is the cornerstone of many popular events held there each year. In addition, Waynesburg is in close proximity to Pittsburgh (50 miles), so theater, ballet, symphonies and many other events are within easy traveling distance.
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Waynesburg’s Claim to Fame
Rain Day uly 29th may be just another day to the rest of the world, but to the residents of Waynesburg, it has a special significance that is passed along from generation to generation. Waynesburg has had rainfall on that date— Rain Day—112 times in the past 136 years (as of 2010).
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It all started during the late 1800s at a drugstore located on High Street (the main street in town). An unknown local farmer remarked to William Allison, the pharmacist, that it always seems to rain on July 29th. This comment inspired Allison to keep an annual record of the rainfall on that day. William’s brother, Albert, continued recording this mystical event; then, sometime during the 1920s, the record-keeping was taken over by the late Bryon Daily.
Rain Day would not have remained a local phenomenon if it hadn’t been for the efforts of the late Waynesburg newsman John O’Hara. He began sending Rain Day stories to other newspapers in the 1930s. Today, newspapers, TV and radio stations from around the world flood the town of Waynesburg with calls every July 29th to learn if it indeed rained. For many years, the only observances of Rain Day were the annual hat bet between Bryon Daily’s son, John, and a national or regional celebrity and a brief ceremony on the Courthouse steps. In 1979, the Waynesburg Borough Special Events Commission was created to hold a special celebration on July 29th. That same year, the Waynesburg Chamber of Commerce held the first annual Miss Rain Day Scholarship Pageant. In 2003, the Chamber of Commerce created a new, nonprofit entity, Rain Day Scholarship, Inc., with the sole purpose to plan and execute the pageant. Each year, one talented local teenage girl wins the coveted crown, hundreds of dollars in scholarship savings bonds and the chance to “reign” over the day’s festivities. Among the activities sponsored by the Special Events Commission on July 29th is a street fair in the heart of town, live entertainment on the Courthouse steps, arts and crafts booths, hometown food booths, children’s games and assorted other diversions—including an umbrella decorating contest. Best of all, the admission is free! The festivities are silenced every year at 5:00 p.m. to pay a moment’s tribute to the men of Company K, 2nd Battalion, 110th Infantry —a battalion from Waynesburg that lost men in France during World War I on Rain Day, 1918. Nearly half of the 250 Greene County men were either killed or wounded on that day. As John O’Hara once wrote, “On that Rain Day in 1918, it rained bullets on the men of Company K.” July 29th, Rain Day in Waynesburg, is the only holiday anywhere in the world that is not a success unless it rains! It is just another day to the rest of the world, but to the people of Waynesburg, it means special festivities and memories on Main Street. By Waynesburg Borough Special Events Commission www.waynesburgchamber.com • 13
A Season for All
Sports & Recreation hough things are always changing in Waynesburg, one thing that has stayed constant is its welldeserved reputation as a paradise for those who enjoy nature and its bounty. Whether it’s taking advantage of some of the best white-tailed deer hunting in the state or enjoying the area’s pristine waters during fishing season, any outdoor enthusiast can find a good reason to slip away and enjoy the pristine surroundings.
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If your sporting tastes are more geared towards the collegiate level, Waynesburg University has you covered with its 18 varsity programs. If Friday nights don’t supply you with a big enough football fix, John F. Wiley Stadium brings the college football atmosphere to town as the Yellow Jackets battle their rivals in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference.
However, if your sport of choice takes place in a gym or on a field with hundreds or thousands of screaming fans, Waynesburg enjoys a rich athletic tradition at both the high school and college levels.
Much like WCHS, Waynesburg University boasts a rich legacy in wrestling. Over the last two seasons, Waynesburg’s mat men have been reborn into a nationally ranked program that has seen a pair of native sons, Nick Garber and Corbin Semple, compete at the NCAA Division III national championships following each of the last two years.
During the school year, Waynesburg Central High School (WCHS), home of the Raiders, provides nine months of excitement for its fans and supporters. Whether it’s cheering on the WCHS football team in the cool fall months, watching the Raider grapplers continue one of the longest-running, most successful wrestling programs in the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) during cold winter months or heading out to the baseball and softball diamonds as part of the spring sports schedule, there’s something for any sports fan to enjoy in the 14 WCHS athletic programs. Who knows? You could catch a glimpse of the next Bill George (NFL Hall of Famer and 1948 grad of then-Waynesburg High School), Coleman Scott (three-time Pennsylvania State wrestling champion and NCAA Division I national champion) or Jocelyn Lindsay (the first-ever WPIAL and Pennsylvania state champion in the pole vault) while cheering on the Raiders.
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Waynesburg University has also made looking to the future a major part of its athletic focus. In recent years, women’s lacrosse and track & field have been added to the more established programs like baseball, basketball and football. The Yellow Jackets have also enjoyed the fruits of the school administration’s labor, which have materialized as new playing facilities. Among them is a new artificial turf baseball field, which is located on route 21 to the west of town. So, whether you are a die-hard high school sports nut or prefer that your athletics take you back to your college days, Waynesburg can certainly satisfy the cravings of any fan. The only problems one may face is how to catch all the action with just 24 hours in the day and what to do during the long, hot months of summer vacation. By Bobby Fox, Sports Information Director, Waynesburg University
Preparing for the Future
Education aynesburg University is a strong partner for growth and development. The University is a private, Christian, liberal arts institution founded by the Presbyterian Church in 1849. Chartered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 1850 and fully accredited by the Middle State Association of Colleges and by the Department of Education of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the University is in its 159th year. Waynesburg University offers more than 40 academic areas of study and has one of the most extensive service learning programs in the world. The University offers several bachelor’s degrees, a master’s of education degree and a master’s of science in nursing degree. An accelerated degree completion program for adults to complete a business degree and a Nursing Express Track are offered at three adult learning centers in the Pittsburgh area. Waynesburg University students average more than 1,100 hours per week of volunteer work. In addition, students and faculty build cultural understanding through international experiences and mission trips.
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The Greene County Education Center of Westmoreland County Community College is located in the EverGreene Technology Park. The center was established in the fall of 1999 to serve as a central office for students taking Westmoreland County Community College classes in Greene County. Classes are conducted full-time and year-round at the state-ofthe-art facility. The Central Greene School District operates two elementary buildings (K-5), one middle school (6-8) and one senior high school (9-12). A professional staff of teachers, support personnel and administrators are dedicated to provide the finest educational programs possible to the students of the Central Greene School District. The instructional curriculum in the elementary schools emphasizes education in the basic skills. An enrichment program adds diversification to the curriculum, as does the intramural program. Interscholastic activities include football, basketball, wrestling, golf, track and soccer. The high school was recently renovated and boasts a 1,000-seat auditorium, a gymnasium, a pool, two microcomputer laboratories, a distance learning room, a fullmotion video classroom, a student center for counseling and a music suite for band and choir. Advanced placement honors and California University courses are also available to students in the high school. www.waynesburgchamber.com • 15
The Greene County Career & Technology Center is supported by all five county school districts and state funds. The center is located on the campus of the Central Greene High School and Elementary Schools. It provides training in a number of fields, such as auto mechanics, accounting, cosmetology, drafting, food service, culinary arts and welding. There is also a licensed practical nursing program for adults. The school serves the students from the five county school districts, as well as adult students. There are also many preschool, head start and day care programs available throughout the county. Open Door Christian School is a private, Christian-based school that covers grades K-12 and is within a 10-minute drive from Waynesburg.
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At a Friendly Place
Shopping t the heart of Greene County lies Waynesburg, which serves as the geographical and commercial central seat for the county’s 40,000-plus residents.
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Downtown Waynesburg continues to thrive as a popular location for a variety of specialty stores and shops, while just outside this “Main Street” area there are a number of popular restaurants, stores and shopping plazas that offer a wide array of food and merchandise for all types of shoppers. The downtown area offers a charming “small-town” vibe and provides a multitude of fine specialty stores, many of which are owned and operated by second and third generation families. The area also showcases the talents of various local artists, whose different types of unique art works are available for sale.
Waynesburg Prosperous Beautiful represents a community endeavor to preserve and revitalize historic downtown Waynesburg and raise awareness of the educational, cultural and historical opportunities as well as the convenience of shopping associated with the town. The organization has recently hired a fulltime Main Street manager who explores new ways to strengthen downtown Waynesburg by focusing on the “prosperous” half of the organization’s name.
The historic preservation and beautification of downtown Waynesburg continues to improve with each passing year, thanks to the efforts of nonprofit organizations such as the Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce and Waynesburg Prosperous & Beautiful, Inc.
In addition to the many specialty stores and restaurants that can be found in Waynesburg and throughout the county, shoppers will also find a variety of other treats in just a short drive’s time by traveling to Washington, Uniontown and Pittsburgh, not to mention Morgantown, WV. All of these locations are within a 20- to 50-mile radius from Waynesburg.
In 1999, the Chamber of Commerce started an initiative to create a “Main Street” program through the National Main Street USA office for the purpose of improving the downtown Waynesburg area. It was during the beginning stages of this initiative that Waynesburg Prosperous Beautiful was born.
When it comes to friendly and pleasant experiences in shopping and dining in and around Greene County, it is no surprise that Waynesburg is at the center of it all. By Steve Barrett, Editor, Greene County Messenger
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Breaking New Ground
Business, Industry & Agriculture ituated in the southwestern corner of Pennsylvania, Greene County is 60 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh and within 500 miles of six of the 10 largest metropolitan areas in the nation. These metropolitan areas have populations of one million or more and comprise 60 percent of the entire U.S. population. Products can be transferred via prime highways, air, rail or river. Business travelers can enjoy a commute with zero traffic lights between the Pittsburgh International Airport and Waynesburg.
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Greene County has the largest bituminous coal reserves in the state and an extensive supplier network supports four of the most productive coal mines in the world. This supplier network ensures that any number of industries prosper within the county. Industries find the necessities for prosperous and successful operations close by and in abundance. While much of the country is concerned about water shortages, the Monongahela River is the main source of water for the area (it also allows transportation). The county’s workforce is a diversified mixture of skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled laborers.
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A tax abatement program for both residential and commercial construction is in place. On a more industrial scale, industrial parks are strategically located and nestled in the gently rolling hills and pastoral splendor of the county and offer excellent access to major north-south and east-west interstate routes. The parks are designated Keystone Opportunity Zones, which provides almost total tax relief for employers located within a zone for a specific period of time. The EverGreene Technology Park boosts a unique high-speed fiber connection, making it the perfect location for companies that require transfer of large amounts of data and scientific computation. A new, exciting development is on the horizon for Greene County and much of Pennsylvania. The Marcellus Shale gas play lies directory beneath Greene County and is poised to provide a staggering economic shot to not only Greene County
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SERVING THE LEGAL NEEDS OF THE PEOPLE IN SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA FOR OVER 85 YEARS WE’RE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
Peacock Keller Trusted Legal Counsel Since 1925
102 E. High Street Waynesburg, PA 724-627-8331 • 724-222-4520 www.peacockkeller.com
www.waynesburgchamber.com • 21
but most of the state. This growing industry and all of the supporting industries are bringing new companies to the area daily. New horizontal drilling technology has been developed to drill and harvest the product and place it in production streams, which means jobs and economic wealth for the county and its residents.
Village Profile’s Convergence Publishing Program ®
®
Brings You Total Market Connectivity! It’s not just about reaching more prospects, but how you reach them. Convergence Publishing puts prospective customers in touch with local businesses 24/7, via print, the Internet and now wireless access, with convenient mobile access to Chamber members and advertisers.
Our Publications Provide Worldwide Exposure
When a new Village Profile® custom-designed, traditional publication is printed...
Website Publication
. . . text, photos and other content are converted into a bonus publication website for your chamber and community, featuring an online advertiser directory and links to participating advertisers’ ® business websites, hosted by Village Profile’s Community Profile ® ® Network at www.villageprofile.com ;
. . . a community eBook is also made available on the website, downloadable free to computer desktops and handheld devices to greatly enhance distribution online; cation Print Publi Traditional
eBooks of the Publication
Hosted at ww w.villag eprofil e.com ®
Wireless Access to your membership via Patent Pending Technology
. . . and then, the most dynamic aspect of the Convergence Publishing Program® provides a wireless mobile membership directory featuring detailed business listings and links to participating advertisers’ websites – ALL accessible via web-enabled cell phones, ® smartphones and other wireless devices, hosted by vpmobile.us
For more information call 800-600-0134 ext. 220 or e-mail jcn@villageprofilemail.com
Be sure to link to your community at VillageProfile.com® for maximum promotional value. 22 • www.waynesburgchamber.com
Waynesburg Agway Service Your farm, lawn & garden, and pet place. ONE STOP GETS IT ALL! Southern States & Agway Bagged Feed Landscaping & Nursery Supplies Canning Supplies • Lime • Fertilizer Grass Seed • Straw • Fencing Supplies LP Tanks Filled
TRADER’S
250 East First Street Waynesburg, PA 15370
724-627-9470
PLUMBING, HEATING, & AIR CONDITIONING
NOW OFFERING EXCAVATOR SERVICE Gas • Water • Sewer Lines
HOURS: Monday - Friday 8am - 4:30pm
24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE Phone: 724-883-3005 PA 017648
1429 Jefferson Road Jefferson, PA 15344
Building a Better Workforce in Beaver, Washington and Greene Counties
Training the Workforce
Our firm is committed to helping small businesses, non-profits and government agencies with:
Process Outsourcing • Transition Management Accounting & Tax Services • Contract Staffing Business Consulting
We’ll help you keep more of what you make.
Contact our experienced professionals for all your business and personal accounting needs.
WAYNESBURG OFFICE
BALDWIN OFFICE
69 South Washington Street P.O. Box 647 Waynesburg, PA 15370 724-627-6491
The Hough Building, Suite G 2801 Custer Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15227 412-882-5383
WWW.DONNELLY-BOLAND.COM BRENTWOOD OFFICE
GLASSPORT OFFICE
3730 Brownsville Road Pittsburgh, PA 15227 412-884-4829
842 Monongahela Avenue Glassport, PA 15045 412-664-7554
Preparing Youth for Future Jobs
Meeting industry’s needs
Contact the Southwest Corner Workforce Investment Board for all of your Workforce needs. 724-229-5083 www.southwestcornerwib.com www.waynesburgchamber.com • 23
Close at Hand
Healthcare outhwest Regional Medical Center is Greene County’s only acute-care hospital. Whether it is doctors, programs, technology or expansion projects, the hospital strives to provide quality care for the community.
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To demonstrate its commitment to quality care, Southwest Regional Medical Center was recently confirmed with the Gold Seal of Approval from The Joint Commission. “This accreditation shows that our efforts are paying off,” said Cindy Cowie, CEO. “Not only are we expanding services for the community, but we are offering care worthy of the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval.”
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Southwest Regional also offers a beautiful unit for patients needing surgical services. The 15-bed Surgical Services Center, located on the fifth floor of the hospital, provides patients with state-of-the-art, luxurious amenities comparable to fine hotel suites. The Center is devoted to the treatment and recovery of surgical patients in an atmosphere that is conducive to a quick and comfortable recovery. With talented doctors and a committed staff, the hospital continues to provide the
Proudly Serving Greene County since 1994 Business: (724) 852-2384 or (724) 852-2385
For Emergencies Dial 911 • 24 hour a day 7 day per week. Advanced Life Support for Greene County. • Providing both emergency and non-emergency ambulance transportation. • Wheelchair van service available. • Approved provider for: Medicare • All BC/BS Plans • All UPMC Health Plans All Medical Assistance Programs • UMWA • and Many More!
Save Money Become a Member Today! Our membership program guarantees NO balances after your insurance payment.
Call for more information today!
www.waynesburgchamber.com • 25
community with many of the same surgical procedures as larger hospitals in the region, including laparoscopic, orthopedic, vascular, gynecological, ENT, ophthalmologic, urologic and gastroenterological procedures. Southwest Regional is committed to adding new services, employees and physicians to serve the healthcare needs of the community. To learn more about the transformations at Southwest Regional, visit our website at www.sw-rmc.com. Our online physician directory and health resource guide will help you make educated decisions about your healthcare needs. By Joy Eggleston, Senior Public Affairs Officer, Southwest Regional Medical Center
Washington-Greene County
BLIND ASSOCIATION 303 West High Street Waynesburg, PA 15370 (724) 710-6316 washgreene@onecommail.com Tuesdays: 10am-3pm • Thursdays by Appointment
566 E. Maiden Street Washington, PA 15301 (724) 228-0770 Monday through Friday 26 • www.waynesburgchamber.com
24-Hour Skilled Nursing Short Term Rehabilitation Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Orthopedic Care Stroke Recovery Palliative Care/Hospice Suite Medicare, Medicaid and Most Insurances Accepted 107 Curry Road • Waynesburg, PA 15370
724-627-3153 Rolling Meadows Care, Inc. d/b/a Rolling Meadows Nursing and Rehabilitation, a non-profit organization. We subscribe to a non-discrimination policy.
www.rollingmeadowsnursing.com T
www.cornerstonecare.com
Most Insurance Accepted Reduced Fees for the Uninsured Convenient Hours & Parking
CORNERSTONE CARE GREENE COUNTY LOCATIONS Waynesburg Office
Central Greene Pediatrics
Greensboro Office
Rogersville Office
Mt. Morris Office
501 W. High Street 724-852-1001
236 Elm Drive Waynesburg 724-627-0926
7 Glassworks Road 724-943-3308
140 Church Street 724-499-5188
Family Practice Medical and Dental Services Chiropractic Counseling • Psychiatry
Family Practice Medical Services Chiropractic
120 Locust Avenue Extension 724-324-9001
Dental Services Counseling Psychiatry
Full Pediatric care through age 21
Family Practice Counseling Dental Services
PRIMARY MEDICAL CARE • MENTAL HEALTH • ORAL HEALTH www.waynesburgchamber.com • 27
A Friend in Faith
Worship
estled within an area of our great nation where individuals continue to revere faith and family, Waynesburg is blessed to enjoy numerous congregational families. We’re fortunate to be among a people who come together in times of both need and joy, pulling together and spurring one another on in the journey of life.
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Whether in town or enjoying a drive through the countryside just outside of town, you’ll find houses of worship ranging from beautiful, historic structures built before the turn of the
20th century, to rented storefronts, house churches and modern new facilities. Yet far more important than the physical structure of the building are the people who gather for worship each week in their own local congregations and who involve themselves in the service and work of ministry within Greene County. By David Crowe, Pastor, Greene Community Church
Government s the county seat, Waynesburg is home to county government. The county is governed by a board of three County Commissioners; county government departments include Law and Order, Recreation, Planning and Development, Human Services, Finance and Administration. There are boards within each department made up of interested citizens who serve in advisory capacities, enhancing the public participation aspect of county operations.
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Waynesburg is located in the 20th United States Congressional District, the 46th Pennsylvania Senate District and the 50th Pennsylvania House District. There are 20 townships and six boroughs within the county. The county is divided into three magisterial districts for the operation of the lesser court system and there are two judges who sit on the Court of Common Pleas in Waynesburg. There are two state correctional facilities and a county jail.
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Waynesburg Borough is governed by nine elected members of the Council. Residents and businesses are also served by a full-time police force. The Greene County Sheriff Department adds deputies to local law enforcement. The borough also has a zoning officer, code enforcement officer, street department and a sanitary department. The borough maintains several parks and recreational areas in the community and provides an annual summer day camp for children. Fire protection is covered by the Waynesburg Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Department, which has two locations—one in Waynesburg borough and one in Franklin township. The Waynesburg area uses an enhanced emergency 911 system for fire, police and ambulance services. There are several emergency ambulances services available within the area and a strong emergency response team.
Index of
Advertisers The Airport Restaurant ....................................................................................................................................... 8 Back Alley Shoppe................................................................................................................................................ 8 Community Bank .............................................................................................................................................. 21 Community Foundation of Greene County ...................................................................................................... 4 Cornerstone Care............................................................................................................................................... 27 Donnelly-Boland and Associates....................................................................................................................... 23 DPS Penn ............................................................................................................................................................. 1 EMS Southwest.................................................................................................................................................. 25 First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Greene County ....................................................... Back Cover Golden LivingCenter - Waynesburg ................................................................................................................. 27 Greene County Industrial Developments, Inc................................................................................................. 19 Greene County Tourist Promotion Agency ....................................................................................................... 9 LaickDesign.com................................................................................................................................................ 23 Lippencott Alpacas ............................................................................................................................................... 9 McCracken Pharmacy ....................................................................................................................................... 25 Nomac Drilling ...................................................................................................................... Inside Front Cover Northwood Realty Services............................................................................................................................... 10 Observer-Reporter ............................................................................................................................................. 21 Our Glass Creations ............................................................................................................................................ 3 Peacock Keller..................................................................................................................................................... 21 Rolling Meadows Nursing & Rehabilitation.................................................................................................... 27 Southwest Corner Workforce Investment Board............................................................................................. 23 Southwest Regional Medical Center ................................................................................................................ 25 Stage Door .......................................................................................................................................................... 12 Tanglewood Exploration, LLC .......................................................................................................................... 21 Trader’s Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning ........................................................................................... 23 Victoria Square Complex................................................................................................................................... 10 VillageProfile.com, inc....................................................................................................................................... 22 Washington-Greene County Blind Association ............................................................................................... 26 Waynesburg Agway Service ............................................................................................................................... 23 Waynesburg University...................................................................................................................................... 16 Westmoreland County Community College - Greene County Center......................................................... 15
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