LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST A Magazine for the Heart of Westmoreland County
Every Story Begins At Home.
www.LaurelMountainPost.com
Seton Hill Professor
SCARES Up Some Laughs
an interview with jeannette author
Michael A. Arnzen
FALL 2005: New Fiction by Drew Williams
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MOUNTAIN VIEWS Cathi Gerhard Williams
Traveling at the Speed of Life Once ancient civilizations noticed that the moon had cycles, they started paying attention to another repeating pattern . . . the changing of the seasons. With the help of the moon, they created the first calendars and began to track time changes and special days. From here, birthdays and other types of anniversaries could be observed each year.
summer, my dad hosts a huge corn roast at the farm right around my birthday.
but time travels at a steady, dependable and scientific rate with the moon, no matter how it seems to us.
I never seem to remember the presents I received for my birthday nearly as much as the places and people who
We have spent the last year meeting new friends, and surrounding ourselves with their stories. With each issue we have grown and reached even more readers in new neighborhoods. The community is sharing in the passage of time along with us. Many of you have commented that our writers are becoming like family members or friends you keep up with in letters or postcards, sharing the changes in their lives with each story we print. We are sharing our memories and, together, making new ones.
In ancient cultures, prior to the rise of Christianity, people believed that evil spirits were most dangerous to a person when they experienced a change in their daily life, like turning a year older. Birthdays became a time for family and friends to surround a person with joy, laughter, and celebration as a way to ward off the hovering evil. I have celebrated 36 birthdays so far, some more memorable than the rest. Now I am the same age that I always picture my parents. Life is like a movie, but sometimes memories are like photographs where time stops and the image stays the same forever. I got married on my birthday and had a small, fancy tea party with close family and friends. I got a sweet sixteen kiss from the boy who will always be like a beloved big brother. I had a baby shower on my birthday before my son was born. And every
shared it with me. I’ve come to know that at the end of every day, what matters most in life are the people in it. It seems appropriate that the first anniversary issue of the Laurel Mountain Post is coming out during the fall . . . when people are celebrating the annual harvest of the year, and having fun with all those spooky, creepy Halloween things as well! It’s hard to believe that it has been a year already,
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Briana Dwire Tomack Cathi Gerhard Williams editor@LaurelMountainPost.com
Thanks to everyone who has helped make this year not only possible, but a great success: our writers and support team, our advertisers who sponsor this publication, and our readers who keep coming back for more, to name a few. It has been an incredible journey, and we are honored to have shared it with all of you. Here is to the year ahead, and all the unknown memories that are waiting for us down the road . . .
LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST
Cathi Gerhard Williams, Editor & Publisher Briana Dwire Tomack, Marketing Director & Business Manager
Proud member of the Latrobe and Ligonier Chambers of Commerce
STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS - FALL 2005 (Volume II, Issue 4)
The Laurel Mountain Post is a quarterly publication of biffBOOcommunication designed to focus on the people, places and events at the heart of Westmoreland County in western Pennsylvania. We print stories about real people and their daily lives; feature local merchants, craftsmen and professionals; present short pieces of art & literature; and never lose sight of what makes this area a great place to call home. P.O. Box 227 | Latrobe, PA 15650 | 724-331-3936 | editor@LaurelMountainPost.com Special thanks to our advertisers for supporting this community publication!
Michael W. Arnzen, Jim Brewer, Walt Brewer, Angelo Caruso, Jr., Daniel Chicka, Carol Dwire, Ron Durika, Bill Fowler, Shelly & Carol Gerhard, Jim Kasperik, Kathy Kasperik, Rudy Mauro, David “Muggsy” Miles, Brian Panichelle, Susan Ransel McBroom, Ruth Richardson, J.B. Rossi, Michelle Schultz, Nicole Vitale Smith, Scott Sinemus, Elizabeth Srsic, Drew Williams, Robert Williams PRINTED BY THE LATROBE BULLETIN PRINTING & PUBLISHING COMPANY
LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST - 3
Mike Arnzen thinks scaring people is a lot of fun. In fact, he’s so good at it that he is a two-time recipient of the Bram Stoker Award from the Horror Writer’s Association. This is no small accomplishment for someone who, admittedly, began writing horror because he thought he could do it better than Stephen King. But there’s more to this Seton Hill professor than just being one of the most respected writers in the horror genre. He’s also a poet, essayist, and instructor in Seton Hill’s innovative MA program, Writing Popular Fiction. The Laurel Mountain Post caught up with this very busy Western Pennsylvania fright master at this year’s World Horror Convention in New York City and got a chance to talk with Mike about horror, teaching, and fuzzy bunnies.
LMP: Along with being a horror writer, you’re also a Professor at Seton Hill. What do you teach there? I teach in the Master’s Program, Writing Popular Fiction. Seton Hill is a great place to teach. It is small enough to allow me to teach a variety of courses like Horror Writing, Composition, and Literary Criticism. LMP: What is the most rewarding part of teaching at Seton Hill?
LMP: Along with being a novelist, you’re also a poet. Yeah, I got into writing poetry in college. It became a fun, creative work space for me. It was always a playful thing for me. LMP: That playfulness shows, you’re definitely not the “typical” poet. You write some rather unusual stuff. Yeah. My grandmother once asked me to write a poem about fuzzy, little bunnies. So I wrote a horror poem about them called “Slippers.” It’s in Gorelets.
Seton Hill Professor
SCARES Up Some Laughs
LMP: Tell us about yourself. I was born in Amityville, NY – home of the Amityville Horror House. I moved to Colorado when I was 12. Later I went into the Army for a couple of years. When I was stationed in Germany I met my wife, Renate. After the Army, I got my PhD in English from the University of Oregon, and now I’m teaching at Seton Hill University. LMP: Did coming from Amityville have any influence on your interest in horror? Actually, I like to think the thing that influenced me the most was MAD Magazine! That and the movies I watched as a kid. My dad used to take me to all the horror movies and cover my eyes when there was too much blood and gore. I would hear people screaming around me and wonder what was going on! That really helped produce my imagination. As for the Amityville Horror house, I remember when the murders took place, but as for the whole “horror” part – people in town were saying things like, “can you believe they made a book about that?”.
LMP: Your first novel, Grave Markings, won a Stoker Award for Best First Novel. What did it mean to you to win it? Well, for one thing, it certainly helped with my self-esteem. When you’re a writer you’re constantly getting rejection slips, so by Laurel when you get an award from your colleagues, you realize that rejection doesn’t matter all that much anymore. You realize that the genre has embraced you. No matter how many rejection slips you get, you can look at that statue and say, “Stephen King has one of those things in his house too.”
LMP: What is Gorelets? It’s a collection of short poems I wrote specifically for a palm pilot. Each poem fits on a pilot’s screen. I also did illustrations for the poems. Then I set up a website for people to download the poems onto their PDA’s. I got a laugh imagining all these business people downloading all these sick, little poems.
LMP: There’s obviously a lot of humor in your work. Do you think horror and humor naturally go together? Oh definitely. I think humor and horror are related in a way that they both come from the body in an uncontrolled way. I’m the kind of person who laughs when I’m afraid. I laugh when I’m nervous, and I think a lot of people do. There is something very human about laughter; after all, only humans laugh. And horror has to have some kind of humanity about it in order to be meaningful. The stuff that takes itself so seriously and has no humor, is usually stuff people don’t relate to. LMP: You recently published a new novel, Play Dead. What’s that about? That started out as my Master’s thesis, so it is kind of experimental. I’ve revised it over the years, and it has just come out in its completed form from Raw Dog Screaming Press. The book is like a deck of cards with fifty-two chapters and broken into four parts like the suits. The Mountain Post Fiction Editor Drew Williams premise is that there is a game The most rewarding part? That’s hard to pin down of poker played by some compulsive gamblers and to one thing, since I’m really just doing what I love staked by this rich casino owner. He gives the playall the time. It’s my dream job, and I remember ers these disposable cameras and tells them to take thinking the job description was custom-built for pictures and make their own deck of cards that will me. How many people ever really get to say that? be used in the game. Soon it turns out that the people But if I had to choose a favorite element, it would who are in these pictures are turning up dead. be the students. I don’t think any other teaching position would allow me to work so closely with a LMP: Do you play poker? horror or mystery writer. Usually English teachers Oh yeah. I love it. Actually, I just competed in a always have to be “cheerleaders” for the classic charity poker tournament. I played for a childhood works of literature, but the students in our proliteracy program called In2Books (in2books.org). gram come to me already full of energy. Their pasThe program provides free books to kids and then sion is contagious, and just inspires me to write, sets them up with an adult pen pal and the two and to become a better writer. That might sound have an opportunity to talk to each other about the sappy, but it’s true. book. It’s pretty cool.
an interview with jeannette author
Michael A. Arnzen
LMP: Is King a major influence on you? Oh yeah. One of the reasons I started writing was because I was a heavy-duty Stephen King reader. I was in the Army reading Firestarter and thought, “I can do this.” So I started writing and quickly realized just how hard it is, and how good King is. LMP: How long have you been writing? I’ve been writing seriously since 1986 and publishing since 1989. 4 - LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST
“horror has to have some kind of humanity about it in order to be meaningful”
FUZZY BUNNIES the eyes roll back and accusingly glare when my feet slide forward and hot rabbit innards squirt between my toes
MEET THE AUTHOR Michael A. Arnzen
only then do I see why these furry white skins are called slippers
October 7th, 7pm
Barnes & Noble Monroeville Mall, Monroeville, PA Play Dead Book Signing
Reprinted with permission from the author.
October 8th, 7pm LMP: So what are you working on now? I’m putting together a new fiction collection for a small press that is interested in doing a “Best of Arnzen” book with a few stories, poems, and essays. I’m also working on a new novel set in Western PA about a twisted veterinarian. LMP: Do you think the Westmoreland County area is a good setting for “horror” stories? Definitely! Just the other day I tried taking a short cut from Jeanette to Irwin, and ended up lost in a
maze of roads that all seemed to lead to cemeteries no matter which way I turned. It was bizarre. Plus there is so much history here; everything from the run down factories to the battlefields has so many tales to tell, so many ghosts of the past to unleash. At the same time there is so much hidden beauty and wonder. Plus, we’ve got a lot of “characters” in the area. LMP: Last question. Star Wars or Star Trek? (Laughing) Oh, Star Trek for sure.
A native of McKeesport, PA, Drew Williams received his PhD from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and teaches creatve writing at North Carolina Central University. His first novel, Night Terrors, was named Sime-Gen’s novel of the year for 2001. He lives in FuquayVarina, NC with his wife, two kids and a finicky cat. Keep up with Drew at his website: www.drewilliams.com or send an email to DrewWilliams@LaurelMountainPost.com.
DV8 Espresso Bar & Gallery 208 South Pennsylvania Ave, Greensburg, PA Poetry Reading featuring Gorelets, 100 Jolts, and Rigormarole
October 22nd
Ligonier Valley Writers Scottdale, PA Horror and Fantasy Writing Workshop
October 27th, 7pm Barnes & Noble Monroeville Mall, Monroeville, PA Guest Visit with Short Story Book Group
October 29th, 7pm
Barnes & Noble HWY 30, Greensburg, PA Reading and Play Dead Book Signing
Keep up with Michael Arnzen at www.Gorelets.com - try the online refrigerator magnet poetry !
Get In 2 Books! In2Books is the largest nonprofit literacy program in Washington, D.C. In2Books employs a collaborative, communitywide effort to foster reading, writing, and thinking skills in students in underserved schools. Throughout the school year, students receive five different kinds of books to keep. The books are diverse, demonstrate successful problem solving, and align with the national literacy teaching and learning standards. The students are matched with adult pen pals who read the same books and exchange a series of letters with the students, engaging them in critical thinking and the writing process. Teaching students essential literacy skills is one of the most important challenges our society faces. Research and experience have shown us what works. Now it is society’s responsibility to ensure that teachers and family members receive the training and resources to implement this knowledge. In2Books provides: • Five Books — Each student and teacher receives five books to keep during the year. The books are selected to promote discussion, demonstrate success-
ful problem-solving, encourage diversity, and foster knowledge and respect of self and others. • Adult Pen Pals — Each student is matched with an adult pen pal who reads the same book as the student. At the beginning of the year, students and pen pals introduce themselves by creating and exchanging personalized “visual collages.” • Six Letters — Students and pen pals exchange six letters over the course of the year; one introductory letter and five letters about the books. • Professional Development — Teachers attend 20 hours of literacy professional development classes and receive classroom resources that support effective implementation of literacy instruction. • Family Outreach — Families receive book-related, take-home activities and attend In2Books family literacy events. • Continuity — Students currently in grades 2-5 participate with increasingly complex curriculums and book choices each year. For more information or to get involved, contact In2Books at: 1250 Connecticut Ave. NW Suite 200 Washington, DC 20036, Tel: 202.223.5300, or www.In2Books.org.
Mary’s Laurel Mountain Post
Online Trivia Contest log on to play: www.LaurelMountainPost.com Congratulations to our previous winner, Jennifer Diana of Blairsville, who received a $10 gift certifcate from The Tree House of Ligonier!
LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST - 5
DERRY REMEMBRANCES Ruth Richardson
Autumn Journeys, 1963 - 1966 I run to the car with my list of errands. First the bank and the post office, next the grocery store, then pick up prescriptions at Rite Aid, not my idea of the perfect day, but as usual, I have put it all off until the last minute. Just then, to add to the fun, it starts to pour down rain. I make my way down the street as the drab day is broken by a flash of scarlet and I notice taillights up ahead. First from a car on the next block, then the two in front of me, now I also must brake. No doubt about it - another school bus. My impatience makes me sigh. I am always in a rush to ‘get there’, wherever there may be, and I want to be there NOW. Checking my watch, I inch forward and the big yellow bus comes into view. It’s flashing red lights are reflected in the wet pavement on this chilly fall day. My fingers drum the steering wheel as the rain sends the leaves dancing to the ground where they float in the puddles on the sidewalk. Was I always in such a hurry? With amazing coincidence the song on the radio is Lou Christie’s ‘Rhapsody in the Rain’ with the verse, “The windshield wipers, seemed to say - TogetherTogether-Together-Together.” Both the song and the weather take me back to a time when I also rode that big yellow bus. It was fall, 1963 and I remember waiting inside Hall’s Sunoco Station, my bus stop, for the bus to come. Although we were able to stay dry inside, the rainy day had called for my brand new olive green, hooded army slicker. I had my mom take me to the Amy Surplus store in Latrobe to buy one. She thought I was kidding when I said it was the latest style. As I used her pinking shears to cut the bottom off (it had hung almost to the floor), she rolled her eyes and chastised me that my lovely tan, doublebreasted raincoat with the plaid lining from last year was so much prettier. Obviously my mother knew nothing about fashion. She hadn’t even liked my Ben Casey shirt and everyone knew it had been the height of fashion. Especially so when I wore it with the matching bracelet that held the five symbols Dr. Zorba would draw on his chalkboard at the start of each show: Man - Woman - Birth - Death - Infinity. And just because she thought it was foolish to use white shoe polish on canvas tennis shoes, didn’t mean she was right. Although I did see her point when I wore them on a rainy day like this. I was also noticing that the rubber coat didn’t breathe very well and I was becoming very warm and damp, standing inside waiting for the bus to come. The first time I had ridden the bus to school was in 1958, at the beginning of fifth grade when we were the first students to be bussed to the new elementary buildings. There were four of them, Bradenville, 6 - LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST
New Derry, Brenizer, and Loyalhanna. From first grade through fourth, I had walked to West Derry School, twice a day and sometimes four times a day, if we had walked home for lunch. It was a comfortable trip. I walked with my brother and all the kids I had grown up with. I knew the way, I knew the layout of the school, and I knew all the teachers. Now the West Derry fifth graders would attend Loyalhanna School and the prospect was more than a little foreboding for me. As I carried my red plaid lunch box across Fourth Avenue to the gas station,
RUTHIE RICHARDSON: Derry Area High School Senior Photo, 1966. and that huge bus pulled up, I got my first glimpse of Jake. When those big doors flew open, there he was, smiling and encourgaing all of us to climb aboard. Jake Winebrenner was his name and after meeting him, I somehow didn’t feel quite so apprehensive. Jake was my bus driver for fifth and sixth grade at Loyalhanna School. After that, I had other drivers, all very nice, but none of them was Jake. Now I was a sophomore and heading for high school. Once again, I was apprehensive about a new school with combined sophomores from Derry A and Derry B, and the added pressure of two grades of upper classmen, most of whom I didn’t know. To make
matters worse, hardly any of my Derry B friends were in my assigned home room, Miss Hazlett’s 102. When the bus doors folded open, once again there sat Jake, laughing and calling hello to us and remembering our names. I didn’t feel quite so nervous now. Jake was such a wonderful man. I recall so many kindnesses he had shown throughout the years. Everyone hoped to be on Jake’s bus; he was the best. After he dutifully deposited us in front of the senior high and told us he’d see us around 3:00, we nervously walked through those big front doors to search for our homerooms. I found mine and took a seat just as the speaker above the chalkboard crackled. The next sound was someone blowing into the microphone. There were two, then three puffs, followed by a little squeal of feedback. Then, for the first time, I heard the voice we would all learn to fear, that of our principal, Mr. Stump. His name was Major Stump and somewhere along the way he had been christened Rojam Pmuts, but never within his hearing range. (Check the spelling, it’s his name backwards!) I guess this was our code name for him. At the end of every morning’s announcements, if he called your name to report to the office, your social life was about to come to an abrupt end. Our misdeeds were dutifully reported to our parents and, guilty or not, we were in trouble and probably grounded. There were not many gray areas back in 1963. The rules were pretty much black and white and we, as students, had zero input. I have to smile today when I hear the rumblings from teens about dress codes. I gaze, sometimes with amazement, at the outfits considered stylish, and imagine the look on Mr. Stump’s face if we had shown up in his office wearing them. There was a finite rule about skirt length, for instance. Any skirt above the knee was cause for being sent home to change. If there was a question about the length, you were sent to the office where you would drop to your knees. If the skirt didn’t touch the floor, it was too short. This position also was perfect since you were praying that Mr. Stump didn’t call your mother. I remember one day several of my friends and I decided to have matching hairdos. We all parted our hair in the center and made two puppy tails over our ears. In no time flat, we heard our names called over the P.A. system and we were told to report to the office. With much trepidation, we slowly made our way down there and were told by Rojam, in no uncertain terms, to take the rubber bands out. This hairstyle obviously was viewed as subversive and cause for an immediate threat of expulsion. Again, we quickly complied and prayed that he wouldn’t notify our parents.
Boys were also expected to follow the rules, and By my senior year of 1966, the photos of the boys their hair could not touch their collars. It wasn’t a in my yearbook had distinctively longer hair. There real problem that fall since they were still emulatwere still crewcuts scattered throughout, but ing Ricky Nelson with his crew cut, the Beach Boys change was in the air. Even Mr. Werner (our beand the Four Tops. These loved Sudsy) had a modiwere all clean-cut and fied Princeton! And our short haired boys. Our health teacher, the lusparents may have hated cious Miss Calhoun (obtheir music, but at least ject of Derry’s male adothe singers looked like lescent desire) may even nice boys who could have have failed the skirtlived next door. Later that length test, I fear. year, we would be introChange. I could sense it duced to some lads with in my mother’s quizzical a more rebellious look. look as she placed newsThey were an import that paper over my long hair would lead to a nationafter I draped it across wide rebellion that her ironing board and caused more than just a made her iron out every change in our hairstyles. wave to poker Meet The Beatles. After straightness. As our their arrival, we started skirts grew shorter, our to undergo a transformahair grew longer. When “Everyone hoped to be on Jake’s bus; tion that, good or bad, the lengths met, I guess he was the best.” showed us the power of we thought we had youth, and that power to achieved perfection. change things continues to this day. Out here in Think Cher and Marcia Brady. We were on the suburbia, though, we were not so prone to rebelhorizon of profound change. Most of us had one lion, and that change came slowly. I can’t say foot in the swinging sixties and the other one the revolution swept through Derry, it was more planted firmly in the more familiar fifties. We witlike a leisurely stroll and before we knew it, the nessed the transformation, sometimes feeling a rules began to bend ever so slightly, and there little uneasy, but mostly with great anticipation. was no going back. Each step was tempered with a little fear. For we had watched the murder of our president on live I also remember records being recalled by their TV, and a frightening and strange sounding place, labels and redone because the lyrics were way Vietnam, was the next voyage that so many of us too suggestive. Lou Christie’s aforementioned would reluctantly take. I often wished that Jake “Rhapsody in the Rain” is a perfect example. His was there with us, sharing smiles and encourlyrics “we were makin’ out in the rain” had to be agement, and getting us safely to our new and changed to “we fell unfamiliar destinain love in the rain.” tions. But some jourYou were very lucky neys are meant to be if you had managed taken alone. to buy a copy of the first version, since I think we children of this was the forbidthe sixties share such den one that everya strong bond beone wanted to hear. cause, together, we And who will ever witnessed this transiforget the fulltion, up close and in fledged FBI investiliving color. The gation into the 1950’s were not just Kingsmen and the a black and white TV so-called raunchy program to us. We lyrics to their hit, lived that life, and “Then, for the first time, I heard the voice we would ‘Louie Louie’. Of most of us felt very all learn to fear, that of our principal, Mr. Stump.” course, we all had safe and happy there. the ‘supposed’ lyrics We also, somehow, memorized, and would laughingly sing them in felt compelled to cast off the shackles and rules of the car at the top of our lungs every time the song our parents’ and grand-parents’ generation. Sudcame on the radio. The Kingsmen were also clean denly, we were the ones making the rules, and cut small town boys. This had done them absoour kids would not have to suffer the ‘puritanical’ lutely no good since they still had G-Men beating upbringing that we felt was forced upon us. Aldown their doors in the middle of the night, investhough we may have often glanced wistfully back tigating a myth they had no part in creating. The to the years of our childhood, we were determined adults from our era did what needed to be done to to leave that life behind. We lifted our collective protect our innocence from such smut. Can you foot, that had been so firmly planted in the fifties, imagine them turning on MTV today? and marched forward into our futures. I am ever
TRIVIA QUESTION: How much music censorship do you remember from the ‘Fab Fifties’ through the ‘Swinging Sixties’??? Turn to page 24 IF YOU DARE!
hopeful that our youthful rebellion, our struggle for change, for breaking the tight structure of the 1950’s, has brought us to a better and more perfect world. Even with 40-some years full of miraculous discoveries and the space-age inventions that we have witnessed since then, I sometimes wonder if we succeeded. Ruth (Parrish) Richardson has been a Derry resident her entire life and is a graduate of Derry Area High School. Passionate about maintaining the values and traditions of small town America, she has been an active voice in Derry, including Derry Board of Recreation (DAPP), and the PAL program within Derry school system.Write to Ruth at ruthelaine@LaurelMountainPost.com .
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TAKE IT ON FAITH Pastor Ron Durika
Does the Church Work On Commission? Ask a member of a church why their church exists, and you will hear a variety of answers. Many would say their church exists as a place for them to worship and to be led in worship. Others would say that their church is present in their community as a place where they and others can go for help when in need. Some look at a church as a place to grow in understanding, or a place where you might go to be understood and accepted. While these are valid reasons, a deeper understanding would show that a church is intended to be a demonstration of what God wants for the world.
dance, the number of programs it has, size of staff, or assets. While all of these may indicate the church is fulfilling its role, the one true test is if lost souls are being saved or at least awakened to want to know more. Anything less should not satisfy a Christian or be the direction the church should take. A person may be warmed, his belly filled, and his physical needs met but if his soul is unsatisfied and troubled, God has not entered his life and true contentment will never be found. Emphasis then should not be directed on the building, the pastor, ceremonies, or programs. Instead all these things and more should always seek to lead one to Christ.
Churches aren’t located near us to better serve us as much as they are there so we can better If we could look back on the past serve each other and our God. In fifty years at our churches, we this service the greatest gift we would find numerous worship can share, and the one that God services filled with sermons, sacwishes us to have, is the gift of raments, prayer, and singing. an eternal life in heaven after this There have been lessons, studearthly life is done. Too often we ies, visits, and lots and lots of either forget this or think that meetings in the lives of our that we are unable to be adminchurches. Bookkeeping would “a church is intended istrators of God’s grace and have recorded births, deaths, to be a demonstration mercy with this gift. I think this baptisms, weddings, attendance of what God wants for is where those who are leaders and financial transactions. But the world.” in the church are falling short in no record of how many have been their calling when they cannot saved will be known. To be fair convey the importance and urgency of leading no such record could be accurately kept, for we people to the saving grace of Christ. don’t really know if a person’s heart is truly given over to God. But what use are all those numbers Most churches do a good job of helping people and statistics if we do not as a church have as a within their own walls. Some work at reaching priority to save souls? How can we as a church out to those around them to share what they justify our existence if we worry about our own have been blessed with. Food pantries, clothing members but allow men and women around us to drives, temporary housing, cards, visits to the live and die uncared for, unprayed for, and withsick, financial aid, and counseling are but a few out the hope we have? How do we justify calling of the ways help is extended. We are to care for ourselves Christian if we do not try and share the sick, the needy, the oppressed and the lost. the love, the grace, the mercy and forgiveness of However it is the lost, those who have not found God with our neighbors? Christ, where we often place the least emphasis, yet that is the area we are to be most concerned. The church is to work on commission. This Great Commission was given to us in the final instrucIt’s almost as though we have lost direction and tions of Jesus Christ when in Matthew 28:19-20 have taken for granted what we who make up and in Mark 16:15-16 Jesus said we are to go the church of Christ are called to do. The priinto the world, baptizing, teaching and preachmary purpose of Christian ministry is to bring ing the news that salvation is offered to all. This lost sinners to salvation and to edify Christ. Anymeans that our duty to God does not end in our thing short of this-no matter how helpful it may pew when church is over. Church is not to be a be to our earthly existence-is work done in vain. destination but a starting point for our mission The work of the church is not to be primarily to go out with our faith and hope in Christ movdirected so we feel comfortable. It is not for acing us to share what we have. colades, honor, or fame that we move, but to save the lost and then give guidance to the saved. Ron Durika is the pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church in New A successful church is not to be measured by how smoothly it operates, membership, atten-
8 - LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST
Florence (corner of Fifth & Chestnut Streets, 724-235-2940). Join them for worship every Sunday at 10:30am and Sunday School at 9:15am. Bible Study meets on the first and third Monday of each month at 7pm.
Legendary “Rug Man” Ready to Retire Richard T. Walker, Sr. has covered some of the best places in the world . . . with oriental rugs. His father, Russell C. Walker, started Walker Rugs in 1940 in a spaced leased from the downtown Pittsburgh Kaufmann’s department store. Though living in Mt. Lebanon, Walker Sr. “grew up” in the family business. “I started working here when I was 15 years old, and really enjoyed it, so it was just natural for me to take it over,“ he explained. Their rugs come from all over the world – India, China, Pakistan, and Turkey. “We’d have contests by opening a rug part way to smell it and see where it came from. We could tell which village the rug comes from by the smell of the wool.” Walker Sr. travels extensively and has placed his rugs in many famous homes and buildings, including the White House and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater near Ohiopyle. “We attract a certain type of clientele, and it is enjoyable to learn about their beautiful homes and how they decorate them.” People have come from as far away as Alaska to shop at Walker Rugs, but the daily customers come from all over western Pennsylvania. Now ready to retire and pass the leadership to his own son, R.T. Walker, Jr., he looks back on his business career and says, “Honesty is the most important. We have always tried to be honest no matter if it’s good for the business or not.” He’ll miss going to work every day, but he looks forward to relaxing and losing track of time before it’s too late. Plans include seeing the grandkids, golfing in western Pennsylvania, and possibly giving educational lectures – by traveling the world on a cruise ship with his wife.
FOCUS ON CHILDREN Nicole Vitale Smith, M.S.W.
Good Grief: Helping Children Cope with Death For everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; A time to plant,…. A time to weep, and a time to laugh; A time to mourn, and a time to dance….. - Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8
As a graduate student in Social Work, I studied loss and grief theories. As a Hospice Social Worker, I witnessed first-hand, loss and grief while supporting the dying and their families. Despite having this knowledge and experience, and recognizing that death is a part of life, nothing prepares you for the loss of a loved one. I know the following information is valuable for families, but I wish I wasn’t writing this article from my recent, personal experience. My father died this summer. After an unexpected illness and a rapid decline, he died on June 9 th, my birthday. His family was his joy, and we were shocked and extremely sad that he was gone. Losing a parent is horrible, but the most difficult part for me was telling my young boys that their wonderful Pappy had died. What a very painful time. My boys knew that Pappy was sick and in the hospital. After being shuttled between relatives and friends for a few days, my oldest son sensed something was wrong when his extended family gathered together in the kitchen, crying. I told him that we needed to talk about Pappy and he started to sob and say no. In talking to children about death, it is important to be honest, so I explained to Austin that the doctors could not help Pappy and he died. He just hugged me, bawling and saying that he
wanted Pappy back. My youngest child was confused and too young to comprehend the news. Until the age of 5, children do not understand the finality of death. We held Owen and told him that Pappy was in heaven. Life hasn’t been the same since. It is tough explaining death to children and there are no magic words, but they do understand, and they do mourn. When talking with your child, reassure him that he will be ok- tell him that you love him and you will feed him, take care of him. Give him a hug! Again, be honest and use simple words – do not say that the person has gone to sleep or passed away. Tell him that it is ok to hurt, and it is normal and natural to cry. Explain that we all go through a mixture of emotions at different times. Just as adults grieve, you may see the following behaviors from children: sorrow, loneliness, anger, guilt, depression, self-pity, withdrawal, fear, frustration, helplessness, shock, disbelief, numbness. We need to validate their feelings, tell them that it is good to express our feelings. You also need to provide them with straightforward answers to their questions and involve them in rituals of family mourning. Professionals believe that children over the age of four should attend the funeral. Participating in ceremonies shows the child how others grieve. After careful thought, we decided to let our five-year-old attend the funeral home and funeral. First, we explained what he would see, hear, and what continued on page 21
LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST - 9
THE LIGONIER CHEF Scott Sinemus
For the Love of Legumes I was putting ‘Chukker’, our 100-pound MalamuteHusky mutt out for his last “before bedtime business” when I realized fall was really here. The sky was crystal clear, and chilly enough for a few people to be burning hardwoods in their fireplaces. There’s something pleasantly familiar the first time you can exhale and see your breath on a cool autumn night And nothing wakes you up quite as well as, coming downstairs after forgetting to shut the windows before going to bed, only to find the kitchen is about 50 degrees! It was almost on instinct that when I came back upstairs with Chukker, I headed right for the pantry and got out my split peas (so I could soak them
overnight). It was a tough call which legume to pick; it usually is though, because I love them all! Lentils~ especially the French green ones, navy beans, pinto beans, green & yellow split peas all have their strong suits. Though a grain and not a legume, pearled barley~ when roasted, makes one of the most amazing sticks-to-your-ribs soups anyone could ask for. By roasting the barley until the sugar caramelizes you’ll not only add flavor, you’ll add a natural brown color. I can’t bear to sit down and eat a bowl of barley soup however, unless the barley has been roasted. Typical barely soup made without roasting the barley or improperly browning the beef, seems to be
Golden Split Pea & Ham Soup with Spaëtzel
~ yield 10 quarts
2 pounds yellow split peas~ soaked overnight in 1 ½ gallon of cold water* 2-3 ham hocks 1 ½ - 2 pounds Smithfield Ham~ cut into ¼” dice 5 large carrots~ peeled & cut into ¼” dice 2 medium sized sweet onions~ cut into ¼” dice 4 celery stalks~ cut into ¼” dice 1 fresh bay leaf Tie together with cotton butchers twine: 16 sprigs of fresh thyme “Bouquet Garni” 10 sprigs of fresh parsley 5 sprigs of fresh Marjoram ~ optional 1/4-1/2 cups of ham base (like bouillon) ~ optional Several fine grinds of fresh white pepper 2 boxes of Maggi Spaëtzel (Swiss dumplings) 4T of virgin olive oil (only needed if making Spaëtzel) *If you forget to soak your peas overnight, put them in a 12qt. stockpot with enough water to cover peas by at least 6” bring to a boil for 20 min, drain completely, rinse thoroughly, then proceed with recipe. One other thing to note with any dried legume: always dump them out on a tray and sort through them looking for small rocks and other inclusions. You wouldn’t believe the things I’ve seen people find in a bag of dried beans!
Drain soaked peas, rinse once and drain again. Put peas, ham hocks and “bouquet garni” in a 12 qt heavy bottomed stockpot, add enough cold water to cover by at least 6”, bring to a low boil, and then reduce heat to a simmer. Continue to simmer & regularly stir the peas to prevent scorching for at least 3 hours. If the mixture begins to get too thick add more water. When the meat can easily be pulled from the ham hocks remove them, the “bouquet garni” and the bay leaf from the peas. When cooled off, the meat can be removed from the hocks and cut into ¼” dice and added back in with the other diced ham. Puree the pea mixture with a hand held blender, then add diced ham & vegetables, bring to a simmer, taste, and if necessary add the ham base or salt. Depending on how salty your ham hocks & diced ham are, it may not be necessary to add any base or salt at all. Continue to simmer for 45 min or until vegetables are tender. For Spaëtzel: Cook according to the box instructions, except you will need to shock them in ice water after they’re boiled. Then completely drain off ice water and coat with olive oil and reserve. Add the Spaetzel to the soup no more than 20 min before you’re going to be serving it. You’re just looking to heat them through and lightly soufflé the dumplings. If you don’t care for dumplings, you can substitute 4cups of red potatoes cut into ¼” dice, and added with the vegetables & diced ham. It’s also fun to omit the ham and substitute ¼” thick sliced cocktail franks for kids. Instead of serving saltines, offer Cheddar cheese flavored crackers and some grated extra sharp cheddar. I even know a few folks that spin some balsamic or cider vinegar on top of their bowl of soup.
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strangely gelatinous and looks like dirty dish water~ no wonder most folks won’t even try it! One other perk to the barley (and some legumes) is by only adding enough stock or water to plump it up, you can make an outstanding Pilaf with it, or chilled it can be a robust base for an antipasti salad. I decided to go with the golden split peas for the soup. Our friend Ellen doesn’t like the green split pea soup because of the color; and even I have to admit, it’s not the most appealing color of green. The yellow split peas however have a golden hue that I don’t think anyone could pass up without trying. If the delicious flavor isn’t enough to get you to taste them, the health benefits of legumes continue to be scientifically proven; something our grandparents seemed to already know. The only drawback I can think of to the yellow peas is the difficulty I had in finding them. The Giant Eagle in Latrobe has one of the better organic sections than any other grocery store around the area; but they only had a premixed bag of yellow & green split peas. I did however have some luck at Cascio’s Fruit Market as well as the Kountry Kupboard Amish store, both in Somerset. The Amish store doesn’t always have the yellow split peas, but the produce market almost always does. Since they’re a dried product, I usually buy a large amount and keep them cool & dry in my pantry till needed. If you’re striking out you can always try a health food store like Nature’s Way in Greensburg. The recipe in this article makes 10 qts of soup. I know some of you are thinking that’s a huge amount of soup! And it is, considering you will need to add more stock each time the soup is reheated. Split peas whether green or yellow seem to have some magical ability to absorb an inordinate amount of liquid. My suggestion is to make the whole recipe and fill containers to put in the freezer for future meals. The benefits of this are multifold: Because it does take most of a day to make this soup correctly, it’s an absolute joy to have some on hand in the freezer so you can be eating it momentarily after you’ve got a craving for it. And by breaking it down into smaller containers, it will cool more quickly, and not be in the temperature “danger zone” (40-140 F) for considerably much less time, as an entire 10 qt pot would be. It also makes anyone you’ve invited over for dinner that night very happy to take some with them; because, just like Granny used to say, “it’s better the next day” is an expression that seems to be even truer with legumes than almost anything else. Scott Sinemus is a Chef with a degree in Culinary Arts from the Pennsylvania Institute for Culinary Arts in Pittsburgh. He’s continued his education with classes from the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone and The Greenbrier; and has travelled internationally in search of authentic cuisine. To schedule a private cooking class, visit www.The LigonierChef.com.
The Ligonier Chef’s Best-Kept Secrets Cascio’s Fruit Market 242 West Main Street Somerset, PA 15501-1559 814.445.4852
Hours: Mon,Tue,Wed,Thurs: 7AM - 6PM Fridays: 7AM - 7PM Saturdays: 7AM - 5PM Sundays: closed Jodi & Donald Brougher and their sons have one of the best-kept secrets in the area with Cascio’s Fruit Market. Even though it’s been there for generations, not many people I talked to seem to know they were there. It was my pleasure to find the yellow split peas as well as a plethora of other dried legumes on the pantry shelves. I even managed to pick up some nori (seaweed) sheets to make sushi with the caviar I picked up in Philadelphia, at Caviar Assouline! There is also a nice selection of cheeses as well as beautifully presented fresh produce. It’s almost like stepping back in time until you come across some of the gourmet products like the Stonewall Kitchens line. One swell thing to note: if there’s something special you’re looking for and you don’t see it, just ask! …more than likely Jodi will be able to find it for you. Keep in mind; if you’re looking for something out of season, you might have to take more than a pound or two if none of their other clients have any interest in absorbing the rest of the case. If you have ever eaten in almost any restaurant in Somerset, you’ve probably already enjoyed the bounty from Cascio’s. With great hours it’s quite easy to take a drive up the mountain and treat yourself to some very fresh, very affordable and very tasty treats. Especially considering I’ve noticed some of the leaves beginning to turn color already, the ride alone would be magnificent!
Nature’s Way
796 Highland Avenue Greensburg, PA 15601 Hours: Mon - Fri: 10:00- 6:00 Wednesday* until 7:00 Saturday: 10:00 - 5:00 Sunday: closed If you haven’t been to Nature’s Way in awhile you should stop by when you’re in the area; it’s like the old neighborhood market meets Whole Food’s. Brightly lit & immaculately clean, there is truly a little bit of everything. Jill Ashbaugh the manager
Looking as if they’ve just plodded off the set of a classic monster movie, the creatures in Gene Fenton’s menagerie are colorful, fantastic - and intentionally a little disturbing. They bring together a medium and a subject that most of us may never have uttered in the same breath before: paper maché and dinosaurs. Fenton, graduated from IUP in 1993, with a major in Sculpture and a minor in Printmaking. Sculpture, he says, was “a natural choice” for him. He had begun doing modeling clay sculptures back in grade school, and even then, his subject matter came easily: “I made dinosaurs, and painted the clay with car paint.” He got the paint from his father’s company, ICRS, an auto body and repair shop in Indiana, and recalls that he once spilled it all over the floor at home, to his parents’ horror. “Let’s just say…it was not a happy moment in the house,” he notes dryly. After his undergraduate work, Fenton attended graduate school at Long Island University, where he received his Master’s Degree in Sculpture. He had done paper maché on and off
Meet the Master of Monster Mache while at IUP, and began making dinosaur-like creatures while living in New York. He moved back home in 1996, taking a “day job” in his father’s auto shop. It was then that he started working seriously in paper maché, which, as he explains, “isn’t always a medium that people necessarily look up to - it’s considered a ‘craft’ rather than ‘art.’” Does the somewhat dubious stature of his chosen medium bother him? Fenton just grins. “Well, it’s a little late now,” he says with complete practicality. But he is fully aware of how odd his work can sound. “When you say ‘paper maché dinosaurs’…do you have a good memory of paper maché in school? I can safely say I don’t. As a kid, you don’t have the patience. It’s messy, and it’s fun for about five minutes. But there’s some discipline behind working in paper maché.” The reasons he chose the medium are, typically, born of practicality. Just as he used leftover paint from his father’s shop to paint the clay dinosaurs he made in grade school, Fenton, as a working artist, chose paper maché for sculpting because it was free and readily available: “I didn’t have the clay.” He also points out that paper maché can be done anywhere, as it’s not a material for which the artist needs a separate studio. “You can do it in front of the T.V.” His main workshop is the cavernous basement . (It’s amusing to imagine the surprise of anyone who wanders unawares into Fenton’s herd of teeth-baring, eye-bulging creatures - especially if the lights are dim.) His other inspirations include comic book artist Jack Kirby, creator of classic Marvel comics in the 1960s, which showcased monsters rather than superheroes. “The arms and teeth on my creatures, especially,” he explains, “show the Jack Kirby influence.” Another source for him is the work of Theodore Rosak, an artist who did semi-abstract bronze sculptures in the 1960s. Looking at these various sources as a whole, it’s easy to see how their styles and elements overlap and influence each other. www.genefenton.com
was extremely helpful & knowledgeable. There was a considerable amount of local produce since it’s our growing season; but in the off-season most of it comes from certified organic farms in California. There’s even an organic section for your pets! Although they didn’t have the yellow split peas on hand; they can be ordered by two pound minimums, and take about 2 weeks.
AMERICAN INDIAN JEWELRY and ARTIFACTS Jewelry Created by Navajo, Zuni & Hopi Artisans – Old Pawn Jewelry “The Best from the West”
Kountry Kupboard 814.629.1588
Route 30 East just before you get to Pottery, Kachinas, Dream Catchers, Baskets, the 219 interchange on the right Fetishes, Rugs, Wood Carvings, Indian Herbs Just like their sign says: bulk foods, & Smudges, Lamps, Peace Pipes. cheese, spices, vitamins, herbs, books SALSA - DIPS - NATIVE AMERICAN HERBAL TEA & more! You just never really know 14K GOLD AT 65% OFF • GIFT CERTIFICATES what you’re going to find on the GRAND RE-OPENING shelves in there, but I always seem to NEW LOCATION IN LIGONIER: find something I need for the pantry. It’s a pretty small store, but full with more difficult to find food items without the huge price tags. The deli case isn’t too large either; but, there’s usually one lunchmeat and one cheese on sale each week. I suggest getting the applewood smoked cheddar, and making whole grain macaroni & cheese with it. The darker color of the noodles tricks your palette into thinking the noodles have been smoked.
123 W. Main Street (Across from Ligonier Post Office) 724-238-9160
GREENSBURG:
Greengate East Shopping Center Rt. 30 (Big Lots Plaza) 724-834-5228 www.AmericanIndian-Jewelry.com AmericanIndianJewelry@msn.com
Fabric Art
Melanie Kimmel www.melaniesfabricart.com Email: mel@melaniesfabricart.com
724-532-3542 LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST - 11
Passion Parties by Karen Confidential Parties for Women 18 • Theme Parties • Bachelorette Parties
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208 Weldon Street, PO Box 306 Latrobe, PA 15650 John Hanna, Owner PHONE: (724) 537-5140 FAX: (724) 537-0687 www.hannainsuranceagency.info
Book a party in October or November and recieve a free gift!
724-532-2877
Providing All Of Your Insurance Needs Since 1959
THINK PINK Especially In October How much do you know about breast cancer? Here are a few facts to ponder: • • • • •
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Every two minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer. More than 211,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year and 43,300 will die from the disease. One woman in eight either has or will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. In addition, 1,600 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 400 will die this year.
Yet if detected early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 95%. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The mission to promote the awareness and the importance of early detection is a critical part of saving the lives of those who have the disease. While most activities surrounding early detection should take place all year (and they do), there is a national emphasis on providing the educational resources during this month. The goal is to reach as many people as possible to encourage involvement in the search for a cure. The following are just some of the ways you can make an immediate impact for yourself and the community:
Know Your Body
The best way to detect breast cancer at the earliest level is to make examining your breasts part of your regular routine. The first basic method is the breast self-exam (BSE). This should take place once a month, within a few days after the last day of one’s cycle. You should look and feel for changes in your breasts. The second method is the clinical breast exam. This is done by a health care provider, and usually takes place during the yearly exam. The provider checks for both lumps and changes in the breast and surrounding areas. And the third basic method, still considered among the best, is a mammogram. A mammogram takes an x-ray picture of the breast, and often detects lumps before they can be felt. All women age 40 and above should have a mammogram every year.
Understand Your Risks
There are many factors that contribute to the de12 - LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST
velopment of breast cancer. Some things we can control, others we cannot. Learn about family history. Ask questions. Have discussions with your health care provider. And in general, adopt a healthy lifestyle. This can only help in reducing one’s risk of getting the disease. A proper diet and regular exercise are a must. Limiting alcohol consumption and not smoking are also very important keys to prevention.
Take Action
One of the most popular activities during October is Lee Denim Day. It is the world’s largest singleday fundraiser for breast cancer. On one Friday, Lee® Jeans encourages millions of people nationwide to slip into their favorite jeans and make a $5 donation to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Participants also receive a pink ribbon pin, also to be worn that day. Every year 100% of the proceeds go directly to the Komen Foundation. This year the event takes place on Friday October 7th, marking the tenth anniversary of the program. This year the Lee® Company goal is to raise $10 million dollars. For more information, visit www.denimday.com. There are also many other great ways to promote the month. Many businesses will create and sell pink ribbon items. Some buildings may develop a pink hue, when regular light bulbs are replaced with the signature awareness ribbon color. To find out more about activities and to get ideas about how to help, visit www.komen.org for a list of their corporate partners. Locally, you may also find tools through the Komen Pittsburgh Affiliate at www.pittsburghraceforthecure.org or by calling 412-521-CURE(2873). Let’s step up to the challenge, Westmoreland County. Together, we all have something to contribute, and not just in October. Think Pink now ... and never stop! Kathy Kasperik is a Derry High Graduate and received her Bachelor’s Degree from Penn State University. Kathy is also extremely passionate about the Komen Race for The Cure® after losing family members and friends to the disease. She has been a volunteer with the Pittsburgh Affiliate for over 10 years. Kathy will always be seen wearing some form of a pink ribbon, the universal sign for breast cancer awareness. Everyone needs to THINK PINK!
Will Social Security Be There for You? Great news! We are living longer and healthier lives than ever before. Sixty-five years ago, a retiree could expect to live only to age 77½. Now, the average 65year-old lives to about age 82½ — five additional years and with a higher quality of life. But, what is good news for us is bad news for Social Security. In 30 years there will be nearly twice as many retirees as today. At the same time, the number of workers paying into Social Security is declining. In 2050 the ratio will be two workers to one retiree, down from the current 3 to 1 ratio.1 Because of this changing face of America, the future of Social Security is uncertain. At the current pace, payments will exceed income in 2017 and funds will be exhausted by 2041.2 Our government is starting to take notice. Some ideas have already been implemented to avert a Social Security crisis. The age for receiving Social Security benefits is slowly increasing. Other ideas are being discussed across our nation, such as paying Social Security taxes on all income, allowing us to invest a portion of our Social Security payments in personal savings accounts, and allowing the government to invest Social Security funds in the stock market. No one is sure what direction the government will take, but it is clear that changes must be made. It appears that some form of Social Security will be available for you when you retire. However, even at its best, Social Security replaces only 40% of the average worker’s pre-retirement income. So what should you do to counter the uncertainty of Social Security? The old saying, “don’t put all your eggs in one basket,” is certainly applicable here. Make sure you have non-Social Security income to get you through your retirement. Investing your own money for retirement, whether through an employersponsored plan (like a 401(k), 403(b) or 457 plan), an annuity or an IRA, is highly recommended. Retirement is a time for truly enjoying the things life has to offer. Social Security benefits will likely help you achieve some of your retirement goals. If you don’t count solely on Social Security, though, and build up a retirement nest egg of your own, you may be pleasantly surprised with the opportunities your retirement will be able to afford you. This article is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to be legal or tax advice. Please consult your attorney or tax advisor for answers to your specific questions. [Article provided by Brian E Panichelle, B.P. Insurance, Inc,, Agent of Nationwide Life Insurance Company and Registered Representative of Nationwide Securities, Inc., P.O. Box 3430, Dublin, OH 43016, 1-866-323-2303. Member NASD. DBA Nationwide Advisory Services, Inc. in AR, FL, IL, WV. DBA Nationwide Advisory Services in MA, NY, OK.
Take the Art in the Kitchen Tasting Tour The Art of Invitation by JB Rossi
As the change of the season became ever more evident, I decided that a change in my jogging routine was also in order. I turned my thoughts toward the upcoming 250th anniversary of the French and Indian War and decided it would be fun to jog around Fort Ligonier. Jogging always affords me the time and opportunity to clear my mind and get my ducks in a row, so to speak. There is nothing better than the fresh air, a rapid pulse, and the buildup of lactic acid to help sweep away the cobwebs. I decided to start at the Ligonier Diamond since I always begin with jewels (my first passion). With cross trainers laced, I headed up East Main Street, turned down on S. Graham and up to East Loyalhanna. I began making my way down toward the entrance of the Fort with the intentions of finishing back up at the gazebo. But as I made that last turn, panic struck! My mind whirled, my forehead began to throb, and my stomach did a somersault. A change in the season meant that the holidays were approaching fast! The “Entertaining Season” was upon me and it was my turn to host the gang. Okay, so maybe there was no need to panic exactly. The French and Indian theme could always work for my Thanksgiving gathering. But would this theme really grab my guests and get them excited about coming? And where would I get my invitations, plates, and napkins to reflect my theme? I needed help and I knew just where to go. I turned back around and headed straight up St. Clair Street toward The Stationery Shop. As I neared the shop, I thought of the longstanding tradition of sending the proper invitations. I found it slightly ironic that one of the earliest known invitations was written by a woman living near a fort, a Roman fort in this case. Her name was Claudia Severa. She lived in Vindolanda near Hadrian’s Wall in England during the 1st century. Her invitation to her sister for her birthday party was written on wafer-thin sheets of wood with carefully smoothed surfaces. This invitation was among a large number of wooden writing tablets found at this site and contains the earliest known example of handwriting in Latin by a
woman. Once translated, the invitation’s wording and subject matter would still be perfect in today’s world. It appears that a well-written invitation is timeless! As soon as I walked through the side entrance of this quaint little shop, I decided to take a few moments to survey the area (as well as catch my breath.) I was amazed and a little intimidated at the variety of stationery, invitations, and paper products that were available. Claudia only had wood with which to work. How did we get to this massive array of writing products? Welcoming me with a huge smile and a cold glass of water was Melissa Smith, the new owner of The Stationery Shop, who immediately sensed my bewilderment and took matters into her own hands. Together we went about answering my questions and planning my event. Interestingly enough, the word “paper” is derived from the reedy plant, papyrus, which grows along the Nile River in Egypt. Papyrus, clay tablets and hide parchment were the original writing materials. The invention of paper as we know it today is credited to the Chinese. They made their paper from the plant fibers or bark of the paper mulberry, Broussonetia papyrifera. In the 1700 and 1800’s, paper was predominantly made from processed linen and cotton fibers. This kind of paper was called “rag” because it was literally made from the recycled old rags. As the demand for more printing grew, people could no longer generate enough rags to meet the needs of the paper mills. When the rag pulp became scarce, papermakers looked for alternatives and tried tree bark, bagasse or sugarcane waste, straw, and cornstalks. An example of how important the rag trade became in the American colonies can be seen in the story of Nathan Sellers from Pennsylvania. Sellers was such a skilled mold maker that the Continental Congress discharged him by special resolution from the Ameri-
The ninth annual Art in theKitchen Tasting Tour, a project of the Women’s Committee of Westmoreland of American Art (WMAA) will be held Saturday, Oct. 1. Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for this self-driving tour are six residential kitchens in Greensburg, Latrobe and Ligonier, along with the Saint Vincent Gristmill, a fully operational gristmill continuously operated since 1854 by Benedictine Monks, located on the campus of Saint Vincent Archabbey, College and Seminary in Latrobe. The self-guided tour was initiated as an adjunct to the Women’s Committee cookbook, “Art in the Kitchen,” published in 1995. The food samplings available at each stop are recipes from the cookbook. In addition, ticket holders receive a guidebook that includes a favorite recipe from each of the day’s hosts. Also, on Oct. 1 only, the “Art in the Kitchen” cookbook is offered at a reduced price of $17 (tax included) and will be available at the Swetz home in Greensburg, the Sorice home in Ligonier and at the WMAA. The tour tickets are $20, in advance; and $25, on the day of the event. This year’s kitchen hosts are: In Greensburg Bernadette and Robert Swetz and Mary Ann and Howard McMurtrie; in Latrobe-Helene and Tom Long and Saint Vincent Gristmill; and in Ligonier-Eve and Joe Novak, Patricia and Mark Sorice, and Annie and Barry Sullivan. Kitchen Tour participants will enjoy the variety and distinctiveness of each kitchen. The kitchen in the Sullivan’s country estate offers a rustic ambiance. The vaulted ceiling in the Swetz home creates an inviting environment for both cooking and relaxing. The Long kitchen incorporates a contemporary look into a traditional space. The Gristmill coffee shop will offer a weaving demonstration. Ticket sales are limited to 500. Advance sale tickets are available at the following Greensburg locations: Earnest Gourmet, Urania Avenue; The Kitchen Shelf, Westmoreland Mall; and the Museum Shop at Westmoreland Museum of American Art. Additional outlets include: Amica on West Main Street, Ligonier, and the Little Shop at Latrobe Area Hospital, Latrobe. Dayof-event tickets will be sold only from 9 a.m. to noon at the Museum Shop. Proceeds benefit the Museum, which opened in 1959 and is noted for its collection of American art, and, in particular, the works of Southwestern Pennsylvania artists. For additional information, call 724-837-1500 ext. 29 or access the website: www.wmuseumaa.org.
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FALL 2005 COMMUNITY CALENDAR Through October 9
Gristmill Productions presents Patsy Cline 8PM, Green Gables Mountain Playhouse; Jennerstown; 814-629-9201 www.mountainplayhouse.com
Through October 31
Tom Savini’s TerrorMania Monessen, PA; 724-684-3684; www.terrormania.net
October 1-31
Gene Fenton Window Space Exhibit at 5013 Penn Avenue, between Winebiddle and Millvale Streets, or between Carl’s Electronics and Kraynick’s Bike Shop; 412.365.0353
October 1-31
Rich’s Fright Farm 2043 Springhill Furnace Road, Smithfield, PA; 724-564-7644 or 877-564-7644 www.frightfarm.com
October 1
River City Brass Band’s Brass Olympics 800-292-7222
October 1-2
Fast & Furious Challenge Jennerstown Speedway, Jennerstown; 814-629-6677 www.jennerstown.com
October 1-2
Autumnfest Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Champion; 800-452-2223 x7057; www.7springs.com
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October 4
Elko Concerts presents Queensryche Palace Theatre, Greensburg: 724-836-8000, www.thepalacetheatre.com
October 7
Michael Arnzen Book Signing, Play Dead 7PM Barnes & Noble, Monroeville, PA
October 7-8
Huston’s Haunted Hollow Route 281 South, Somerest; 814-926-2666 www.HauntedHollow.net
October 7-9
Polka Octoberfest Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Champion; 800-452-2223 x7057; www.7springs.com
October 7-15
Seton Hill University Theatre Presents Fuddy Meers October 7 – 8:00 PM; October 8 – 8:00 PM; October 9 – 2:00 PM; October 12 – 10:30 AM; October 13 – 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM; October 14 and 15 – 8:00 PM; Seton Hill Univeristy - Reeves Theater; 724-838-4241; www.setonhill.edu
October 8
Poetry Reading featuring Gorelets, 100 Jolts, and Rigormarole with Michael Arnzen 7PM, DV8 Espresso Bar & Gallery, 208 South Pennsylvania Ave, Greensburg, PA
October 8-9
Cycle Fest Jennerstown Speedway, Jennerstown; 814-629-6677 www.jennerstown.com
October 8-9
Autumnfest Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Champion; 800-452-2223 x7057; www.7springs.com
October 12
Latshaw Productions presents Carl Hurley 2PM Palace Theatre, Greensburg ; 724-836-8000 www.thepalacetheatre.org
October 14-15
Haunted Mountain Hayrides Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort, Mill Run, PA; 724-455-2929 or 800-439-9644 www.jellystonemillrun.com
October 14-15
Huston’s Haunted Hollow Route 281 South, Somerest; 814-926-2666 www.HauntedHollow.net
October 14-16
Fort Ligonier Days Midtown Ligonier, Ligonier; 724-238-4200 www.Ligonier.com
October 15
Westmoreland Cultural Trust presents The Best of Broadway featuring the songs of Andrew Lloyd Webber 8PM Palace Theatre, Greensburg; 724-836-8000 www.thepalacetheatre.org
October 15-16
Autumnfest Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Champion; 800-452-2223 x7057; www.7springs.com
October 15-16
Dollhouse & Miniature Show Mountain View Inn, Greensburg; 724-834-5300; www.MountainViewInn.com
All Ads in Our Holiday 2005 Issue Are
50% OFF! Call today to reserve your space!
724-331-3936
Advertising Deadline November 5
from the LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST
October 16
Arts ONSTAGE Entertainment presents Wayne Brady Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Fisher Auditorium, Indiana, PA; 724-357-7553; www.onstageatiup.com
October 17November 1
Scarecrow Contest Midtown Ligonier, Ligonier; 724-238-4200 www.Ligonier.com
October 20
Westmoreland Cultural Trust presents Tim Conway and Harvey Korman: Together Again with Special Guest Star Louise DuArt 3PM and 8PM; Palace Theatre, Greensburg; 724-836-8000; www.thepalacetheatre.org
October 21-22
Pennsylvania Arts & Crafts Christmas Festival Washington County Fairgrounds, Washington, PA; 724-863-4577; www.familyfestivals.com
October 21-22
Haunted Mountain Hayrides Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort, Mill Run, PA; 724-455-2929 or 800-439-9644; www.jellystonemillrun.com
October 21-22
October 22
October 22
October 23
October 22-23
October 28-31
Huston’s Haunted Hollow Route 281 South, Somerest; 814-926-2666 www.HauntedHollow.net
Haunted Mountain Hayrides Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort, Mill Run, PA; 724-455-2929 or 800-439-9644 www.jellystonemillrun.com
October 28-29
Ligonier Valley Writers Horror & Fantasy Writing Workshop with Michael Arnzen Scottdale, PA; www.ligoniervalleywriters.org
Huston’s Haunted Hollow Route 281 South, Somerest; 814-926-2666 www.HauntedHollow.net
October 29
Michael Arnzen Reading and Book Signing 7PM, Barnes & Noble, Greensburg, PA
October 29
Westmoreland Cultural Trust presents Corbin/ Hanner with special guest Vanessa Campagna Palace Theatre, Greensburg; 724-836-8000 www.thepalacetheatre.org
October 29
Halloween Parade 3PM, Downtown Derry, 724-694-2120, www.darb.org
October 29
Trick or Treating 6PM-8PM, Downtown Derry, 724-694-2120, www.darb.org
October 29-30
Pennsylvania Arts & Crafts Christmas Festival Washington County Fairgrounds, Washington, PA; 724-863-4577; www.familyfestivals.com
October 30
Arts ONSTAGE Entertainment presents Pat Metheny Trio Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Fisher Auditorium, Indiana, PA; 724-357-7553 www.onstageatiup.com
October 31
Halloween Parade 5:30PM, Lynch Field, Greensburg, PA; 724-834-4880, www.city.greensburg.pa.us
October 31
Trick or Treating 6PM-8PM, Greensburg, PA; 724-834-4880, www.city.greensburg.pa.us
October 31
Trick or Treating 6PM-8PM, Ligonier Township, PA; 5PM-7PM, Ligonier Borough, PA; 724-238-4200, www.ligonier.com
5th Annual Mountain Playhouse Revels Green Gables Mountain Playhouse, Jennerstown; 814-629-9201 www.mountainplayhouse.com Live Onstage with 3 Bricks Shy 7PM-9PM, Ligonier Theater, Ligonier, PA; 724-238-6514,ext.2 www.ligoniertheater.com Autumnfest Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Champion; 800-452-2223 x7057 www.7springs.com
October 27
Michael Arnzen Visit and Short Story Group 7PM Barnes & Noble, Monroeville, PA
October 28
Autumn Big Band Dinner Dance Mountain View Inn, Greensburg; 724-834-5300; www.MountainViewInn.com
October 28
October 28
October 28-29
Arts ONSTAGE Entertainment presents Miss Saigon Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Fisher Auditorium, Indiana, PA; 724-357-7553 www.onstageatiup.com Papier Mache Creatures Invade Moxie DaDa Moxie, 4510 Liberty Ave - Pittsburgh Halloween party and anniversary fundraiser featuring 28 Papier Mache creatures by Gene Fenton. Fenton’s; 412.682.0348 Godspell Ligonier Theater, Ligonier, PA; 724-238-6514,ext.2 www.ligoniertheater.com
16 - LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST
November 4-6
Polka Fall Festival Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Champion; 800-452-2223 x7057; www.7springs.com
November 20January 29
Holiday Toy and Train Exhibition Westmoreland Museum of American Art, Greensburg, PA; 724-837-1500 www.wmuseumaa.org
November 4Feb 19
10th Anniversary Southwesten Pennsylvania Regional Art Exhibit Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art, Ligonier, PA; 724-238-6018 www.spcarts.org
November 22January 3
Parade of Trees Four Points by Sheraton, Greensburg, PA; 724-836-6060; www.greensburgpa4points.com
November 25
Light Up Night/Santa’s Arrival Ligonier Valley Chamber of Commerce 724-238-4200 www.ligonier.com
November 25
Light Up Night Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, Farmington, PA; 724-329-8555 www.nemacolin.com
November 25
Rock on the Mountain Concert Series presents Poco, Pure Prairie League, and Firefall Grey Rocks Amphitheatre, Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Champion; 800-452-2223 x7057 www.7springs.com
Novemeber 4,5 Godspell 8PM, Ligonier Theater, Ligonier, PA; 724-238-6514,ext.2 www.ligoniertheater.com November 4-6
Antique Show & Sale Mountain View Inn, Greensburg, PA; 724-834-5300 www.mountainviewinn.com
November 5
Arts ONSTAGE Entertainment presents Chicago Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Fisher Auditorium, Indiana, PA; 724-357-7553 www.onstageatiup.com
November 5December 11 (weekends)
Compass Inn Candlelight Tours Compass Inn Museum, Laughlintown, PA; 724-238-4983; www.compassinn.com
November 26
Westmoreland Cultural Trust presents Bill Cosby 4PM and 8PM Palace Theatre, Greensburg; 724-836-8000; www.thepalacetheatre.com
November 6
Godspell 2:30PM, Ligonier Theater, Ligonier, PA; 724-238-6514,ext.2 www.ligoniertheater.com
November 27
Live Onstage with Neon Swing X-Perience 7PM-9PM, Ligonier Theater, Ligonier, PA; 724-238-6514, ext.2 www.ligoniertheater.com
Harvest Bed & Breakfast Open House Tour Laurel Highlands 800-333-5661 www.laurelhighlands.org
November 30
Latshaw Productions presents Patti Page Christmas 2PM, 8PM; Palace Theatre, Greensburg; 724-836-8000 www.thepalacetheatre.com
November 6
November 11January 1
Overly’s Country Christmas Westmoreland County Fairgrounds, Unity Twp., PA; 800-9OVERLY, www.overlys.com
November 12-13
Jazz Weekend Mountain View Inn, Greensburg, PA; 724-834-5300 www.mountainviewinn.com
November 13
Bridal Show Mountain View Inn, Greensburg, PA; 724-834-5300 www.mountainviewinn.com
November 17
Arts ONSTAGE Entertainment presents Blast Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Fisher Auditorium, Indiana, PA; 724-357-7553 www.onstageatiup.com
November 18,19
Always…Patsy Cline 8PM, Ligonier Theater, Ligonier, PA; 724-238-6514,ext.2 www.ligoniertheater.com
November 19,20
Always…Patsy Cline 2:30PM, Ligonier Theater, Ligonier, PA; 724-238-6514,ext.2 www.ligoniertheater.com
November 18-20
Greater Pittsburgh Arts & Crafts Holiday Spectacular Montgomery Ward Building, Charleroi, PA; 724-863-4577; www.familyfestivals.com
November 19
Holiday Parade 12:00PM, City of Greensburg, Greensburg, PA; 724-834-4880, www.city.greensburg.pa.us
To add your community event to this calendar, please call 724-331-3936 or visit our website www.LaurelMountainPost.com LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST - 17
Experience the best of Ireland and the British Isles without leaving Ligonier! 131 Country Club Court P.O. Box 360 Jones Mills, PA 15646 724-593-5144/5044 blackthorn46@yahoo.com www.jacqueharris.com
REALTORS & SELLERS: TO SELL YOUR PROPERTY QUICKLY AND FOR A BETTER PRICE, LET ME “STAGE” IT FOR YOU. IT WORKS!
Sales Hours Mon,Tue,and Thur,.9-8 Wed and Fri,.9-5 Sat,.9-4
Celtic Culture Goods from Ireland and the British Isles
218 West Main St
Ligonier
724-238-2420
Nicholas Mosse Pottery Aran Island Sweaters • Belleek China Bill Baber Knitwear • Burns Crystal Food • Jewelry • Possumdown Custom Made Kilts See our coupon on page 26 for a free gift from Nicholas Mosse Pottery!
For anyone else “sport wagon” would be an oxymoron.
www.laurelbmwpa.com
2006 530XIT
X-Drive All Wheel Drive System Premium package Heated seats Power Liftgate $599 per month plus tax for 36 months 10,000 miles per year.
Laurel BMW 1880 Bedford St Johnstown, PA 15902 (814) 269-3400 Lessee resp. for maint. and excess wear & tear. Total inception due at signing includes $600.00 ref. sec. dep. $599.00 1ST mo payment,$4,112.00 cash down,$370.00 tax on cash down,119.00 plate fees.Total due $5800.00. closed end lease with 10,000 mi/yr; 20 cents, thereafter. MSRP_$56,070.00.Sale Price $53,480.Payment is plus tax. Offer ends 10/31/05. Price includes all costs to be paid by the consumer. No tresp for typos. Pictures are for illustrative purposes only. STK#6037120
HOW TO EAT Jim Brewer, RD, LDN, CNSD, CNIS
Are There Any Herbal Supplements That I Should Be Taking? Herbal Supplements fall under the category of Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). CAM therapies also include but are not limited to aroma therapy, massage therapy, hypnotherapy, some say chiropractors, prayer, yoga, breathing therapy, and so on and so on. About 61% of the population use some form of CAM. 18% of the population takes some type of herbal remedy, mostly without telling their physician. The most common questions asked of a dietitian like myself seem to be about herbals. I guess because many are a component of food, or come from a plant. And since we eat plants I guess that’s the connection. I have to say that I am not exactly a big fan of (CAM). I think there are far more “quacks” out there than there are CAM professionals. Most are less interested in your personal “well being” and more interested in what’s in your wallet. Most Registered Dietitians are not experts in this field. But many know where to go to find the answers to herbal questions. Looking at clinical studies to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of herbal products is how most Dietitians learn about herbal products. Even though I’m not too trusting of herbal remedies, I try to approach each new product with an open mind. Every day researchers are discovering more and more ingredients of herbs or components of foods that have some possible benefits for improved health and a better quality of life. Example: Lycopene (that stuff in ketchup that decreases your risk of cancer). I believe that much more research is needed and more regulation would make many herbal supplements safer for everyone. That said, knowledge is power, and a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing. I would suggest that if you hear of some herb that your friend or family member is taking and having miraculous results still proceed with caution. Don’t take their word for it. Do your homework, check reputable websites, read a study or two if you have the time, seek out a professional, and by all means tell your doctor what you plan on taking. Herbal medicine, although thousands of years old, still has many unknowns and you don’t want to become the victim of some overzealous profiteer looking to make a quick buck by preying on your fears. You’ll know who they are just by listening to them. They’ll say things like “its new and improved”, or that it is “very rare and expensive”, “removes toxins”, “miraculous results” etc. Beware of the testimonials. You’re a unique individual. Most likely you won’t have the same results as that guy or gal in that late night commercial. It’s important to know that there are no FDA regulations available regarding herbal supplements and no controls on what the manufacturer puts in one pill compared to another. You could take one pill of St. Johns Wort and get only half the amount the
label says it has. The next pill may have twice as much as stated. No dose controls seems like it could be a big problem if you happen to be sensitive to any of the herbs or fillers used. Since many herbals or supplements contain some form of plant, it’s not beyond reason to think these could make your existing allergies worse. Not to mention that without regulation on harvesting and packaging you could end up with a harmful mold or virus in your bottle. Also, many herbal and supplements can have some nasty effects on that expensive prescription drug you are taking. For instance, ginseng can decrease your INR (International normalized ratio), which means that your blood will clot faster or be thicker than it should be. This can be very bad for someone taking a blood thinner like coumadin. Garlic would do the opposite, making your blood thinner than it should be and may increase risk of bleeding episodes. Ginkgo biloba has been shown to increase blood pressure. Counteracting that expensive hypertensive drug you are paying for and increasing your risk of a hematoma (blood clot). St Johns Wort can interfere with Digoxin. Anyone with a heart condition should beware. Yohimbe can cause high blood pressure on its own and be even worse if mixed with an antidepressant. So, please tell your doctor what you are taking. Many times they can adjust your meds to prevent negative side effects or at least advise against mixing some of these potent chemicals.
Find the flavors of Fall right in your neighborhood! Mastrorocco’s has everything you need right in downtown Derry. Still a family-run business headed by great-grandson Vince Mastrorocco, they provide a full-service grocery store (including bakery, deli, meat, and produce) and offer a small delivery service to their customers. Stop in today for your grocery needs as well as money orders, faxes, and copies – or to purchase that winning lottery ticket! 33 East 1st Avenue • 724-694-2788
R se
Style Shopp e Shoppe SINCE 1932
• • • • •
Women’s Fashions Gift Boutique Just For Kids Gourmet Food Delightful Service
It ght Her e It’’s AAllll Ri Right Here Order your custom gift basket or tray today!
906 Li at e • (724) 537-6218 Liggonier S Sttreet et,, LLat atrrob obe www.rosestyleshoppe.com
Even though there are no federal regulators looking out for your safety when it comes to herbals, a few independent agencies are available that monitor herbal drugs and other CAM therapies. If you have access to the web these are the most reputable: http://www.quackwatch.com for health fraud and quackery http://wwwfda.gov/medwatch may have some useful information http://www.ncahf.org National Counsel Against Health Fraud http://www.consumerlab.com Consumerlab – provide periodic independent evaluations, have to pay for this subscription. Take the time to do some research or talk to a professional. It may save you a lot of pain and grief for your troubles. Jim is a1983 graduate of Derry Area High School with 10 years experience in nutrition. He has a BS in Clinical Dietetics and Nutrition from the University of Pittsburgh and currently practices as a clinical nutritionist. His specialties include physical nutrition assessment, nutrition support and renal nutrition.
Barkley’s Derry King Route 217 Derry • 724-694-8552 Named Best Hot Fudge Sundae by The Ligonier Chef!
LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST - 19
Ft. Ligonier Days Schedule Friday Oct. 14, 2005 7am to 1pm
Pancakes and Sauage, Heritage United Methodist Church
9:00 AM
Community food booths open Craftsmen’s Fair opens at several locations Runa Pacha - Music of the Andes Mountains - Lower West Main St
10:00 AM
Fort Ligonier Museum & Gift Shop opens Merchant’s Old Fashioned Sidewalk Sales begin
NOON
OFFICIAL OPENING CEREMONY on the Diamond
2:30 PM
Swing City - Music of the Dance Bands of the 40s - Bandstand Stage
6:00 PM
Craft booths close
Saturday Oct. 15, 2005 7am to 1pm
Pancakes and Sauage , Heritage United Methodist Church
9:00 AM
Community Food Booths Open - Craftmen’s Fair continues Runa Pacha - Music of the Andes Mountains - Lower West Main St
9:00 AM
Fort Ligonier Museum and Gift Shop opens
10:00 AM
Sidewalk sales begin
11:00 AM
COMMUNITY PARADE BEGINS on Main Street
1:30 PM
Artillery demonstration at Fort
2:00 PM
Acoustic Shadows of the Blue & Gray - Civil War String Band - Bandstand; Battle Re-enactment at Fort
4:00 PM
Tony Janflone, Jr. - Blues, Rock, Pop & Jazz Battle Re-enactment at Fort
6:00 PM
Craft booths close
6:30 PM
The Vogues - 60s/70s Oldies group in concert on East Main Street
ALLISON CHIROPRACTIC CENTER
Dr. James W. Allison, Jr. 310 S. CHESTNUT STREET DERRY, PA 15627
724-694-9700 Providing quality health care to the Laurel Highlands for 20 years. A provider in the Blue Cross/ Blue Shield network and Medicare. We have affordable plans for anyone without insurance.
Complimentary Exam, Scan, Xrays and First Adjustment for a donation of a brown paper bag full of non perishable groceries! Donations benefit the Derry Area Food Bank
Health Care for Your Entire Family Turn on your Power of Life thru Chiropractic.
Sunday Oct. 16, 2005 10AM - 5PM
Fort Ligonier open to the public
Noon
Craft and Food Booths open Runa Pacha - Music of the Andes Mountains - Lower West Main St
12:30 PM
Noel McLeary - Gospel Music - Bandstand Stage
1:30 PM
Artillery demonstration - Fort
2:00 PM
Tom Watt - The Buffett Man - Bandstand Stage Battle re-enactment at Fort
4:00 PM
Delmont Area Concert Band - Old Fashioned Band Concert on the Bandstand; Battle Re-enactment at Fort
5:00 PM
Craft booths close
5:30 PM
Carillon concert from Calvary United Methodist Church, Shirley Benner at the keyboard closes Fort Ligonier Days
See the Ligonier VFD’s award-winning, antique fire truck in the parade on Saturday! 20 - LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST
LIVE ONST AGE! ONSTA
ENTERT AINMENT ENTERTAINMENT FOR EVER YONE EVERY
SPECIAL EVENTS
Ligonier Theater 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM $5.00 per person Tickets at the door
GODSPELL
AL WAYS…PA TSY CLINE ALW YS…PATSY
October 28 and 29 November 4 and 5 at 8:00 PM November 6 at 2:30 PM
November 18 and 19 at 8:00 PM November 19 and 20 at 2:30 PM
LIVE ONST AGE ONSTA WITH 3 BRICKS SHY!
Ligonier Theater
A LIGONIER CHRISTMAS
October 23
LIVE ONST AGE WITH ONSTA -PERIENCE! X-PERIENCE! NEON SWING X November 27
208 West Main Street 724-238-6514, ext. 2 vpltheater@wpa.net www.valleyplayers.org www.ligoniertheater.com
December 3 at 2:30 PM & 8:00 PM December 4 at 2:30 PM
continued from page 9
would happen. We asked him if he wanted to go and he said yes. He also told us that he wanted Pappy to have the picture he drew for him while he was in the hospital. We included Austin’s picture and something special from his younger brother in the coffin. Although it was very hard, I am glad Austin had the chance to see Pappy and say goodbye. A designated caregiver should be present if the child becomes overwhelmed and needs to leave. We did have friends that needed to help out the morning of the funeral. We did not have the children attend the cemetery after the funeral mass, but we did visit Pappy’s grave recently. My boys talked to Pappy, we said a prayer and planted a flower for Grandparent’s Day. Donating your money or time to a special cause in memory of your loved one or starting a tradition to commemorate his life may assist your family’s healing process. Our summer was not easy. We still went on vacation, the boys attended camps, and we tried to keep a routine. We had good and bad days. We’ve laughed and shed many tears too. We read a number of the helpful books that I’ve listed at the end of this article. We recall our favorite activities with Pappy and we constantly share our memories. To remind the boys of their special relationship with Pappy, I have a photo of each of them with him in their room. It may be helpful too, to have something that belonged to the special person. I told Austin that Pappy will always be a part of him, that he will have Pappy’s love and lessons forever. And although we still cry when we think about
continued from page 13
can Army to go home and craft the paper molds so desperately needed during the Revolutionary War for military orders and gunpowder wrappers. In 1850, Esparto, a grass native to Southern Spain and Northern Africa, was introduced in England and was really the first successful substitute for linen or cotton fibers. Although it continues to be used in the United Kingdom for the production of better grades of books, the high cost of transporting the grass prohibits its use here in the United States. Today the majority of superior paper products comes from wood, linen and cotton fibers. But with the variety of paper styles and printing techniques available today, how do I choose the proper product? “The most important thing to remember when purchasing your invitations is to properly reflect your occasion,” Smith began. “Whether your event is a formal black tie affair or a simple casual party, your invitation should mirror that style.” “You can tell a good quality paper by its touch,” Smith said. “A top selling brand like Crane’s will feel substantial and elegant. Watermarks are important, too.” In fact, Crane’s is also the vendor for the paper used to print the U.S. dollar.
not seeing Pappy again, more frequently we are remembering the good things and all the happy times we spent together.
Recommended Books:
You can not avoid the pain. Like adults, children have to journey through the loss in order to heal. Children are amazingly resilient and time does help. However, their grief may come intermittently. For example, Austin had a good two weeks and then one night he cried himself to sleep saying that he missed Pappy. No two people grieve exactly the same, each child will react differently. You may have to re-visit their feelings of loss at anniversaries, holidays, special occasions. Many times my son and I have said, “I wish Pappy was here.” You need to be self-aware of your grief because you will not be able to help your child if you do not accept your feelings and take care of yourself. If you do need assistance, The Caring Place is a wonderful resource for families. It is a center located in Pittsburgh that provides support groups for children who have lost a loved one. Other bereavement services may be found through your church or religious organizations, mental health agencies, and school counselors.
My Grandpa Died Today, by Joan Fassler (Behavioral Publications, 1971) Part of Me Died Too, by Virgina Lyn Fry (Dutton, 1995) The Fall of Freddie The Leaf, by L. Buscaglia (Skine, Inc., 1982) What’s Heaven?, by Maria Shriver (St. Martin’s Press, 1999) I Miss You: A First Look at Death, by Pat Thomas (Barron’s 2001) Sad Isn’t Bad, by Michaelene Mundy (Abbey Press, 1998) When Someone Very Special Dies, by Marge Heegaard (Woodland Press, 1988)- this book encourages children, ages 5-12, to use art to help them grieve
I know it is a cliché, but I encourage you to appreciate each day. May you live life to its fullest! My family is still adjusting to life without Pappy, and there will always be a hole in my heart; but we must go on. When you face death, you realize that life is truly a gift. I thank God for my blessings, especially the love of my family and friends. Thank you for allowing me to share my recent loss, writing this article has furthered my healing process. Peace to all . . .
I found Smith to be not only extremely helpful on the history and production of paper and printing techniques, but a knowledgeable source on all aspects of entertaining etiquette as well. When it comes to personalized stationery, history and tradition are still important. “Monograms are still very much in style as well as the engraving, embossing, and letter pressing techniques.” Thermography is a more modern and less expensive technique that can be used for any occasion. My personal favorite is the blind embossing; a process similar to engraving except that no ink is used, resulting in a white on white effect.
For Children
For Adults How Do We Tell Children- A Parent’s Guide to Helping Children Understand and cope when someone Dies, by Dan Schaefer and Christine Lyons (Newmarket Press, 1993) Helping Children Cope with the Los of a Loved One: A guide for Grownups, by William C. Kroen (Free Spirit Publishing, 1996) Explaining Death to Children, by Earl A. Grollman (Beacon Press, 1967) Talking About Death: A Dialogue Between Parent and Child, by Earl A. Grollman (Beacon Press, 1990) Nicole is a 1988 Derry Area High School graduate. She attended the University of Pittsburgh and graduated in 1992 with a BA in Social Work. She received her MS degree in 1997 from Temple University. She has worked in the following areas: Early Intervention (developmental disabilities), Adolescent Mental Health, Hospice, and Youth Work (England). Currently, Nicole is taking a break from her career as a Licensed Social Worker to be a full-time mom to her two boys, ages 5 and 2 years old.
able to attend their function. This response should always be done within a day or two of receiving the invitation. The proper invitation should also tell the guest how to RSVP. Respond according to the directions given. Today’s most popular avenues include returning a response card, sending a note to an e-mail address, or making a “Regrets only” phone call if you are not able to attend. If a telephone number is given, guests should always make sure they speak directly to the host or hostess. Answering machines can be so unreliable and impersonal even in today’s electronic age.
“One of the newest and most popular items has been the “Save the Date” cards,” Smith said. These short notes gives your guests a chance to mark their calendars, and are especially important when the event takes place during the holidays, popular weekends, and prime vacation times. “Save the Date” cards are a necessity when inviting out-of-town guests who will need to make travel and lodging arrangements well in advance.
The history of The Stationery Shop was also fascinating. “The original shop was called the “Bay Window” and it handled “Grandmother’s”, a national franchise which matched people who needed work with those who needed work done,” Smith said.
Needless to say that with every exciting invitation comes very important obligations. First and foremost is the RSVP which stands for “Repondez, s’il vous plait” or “Please reply”.
Being the aggressive journalist that I am, I had to ask Smith how the electronic media such as e-mail and IM (instant messaging) has affected her business. “I think that if you are a person who has always placed a high value on hand-written cor-
This is a time honored code which requires a response to the hosts as to whether or not you are
“From there, the owner branched out into offering typing and other executive services, which naturally included writing paper and stationery.
continued on page 28
LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST - 21
FRIENDS & HEROES Honoring Our Neighbors Serving in the United States Military We would like to keep in touch with our friends, family and neighbors proudly serving our country in the United States military across the nation and around the world. In each issue of the Laurel Mountain Post, we will feature some Westmoreland County area soldiers. To be included in future issues, simply fill out our online form and email us a current picture (or send the information to us at Laurel Mountain Post; P.O. Box 227; Latrobe, PA 15650-0227). We can’t wait to hear from you!
Lance Wilson
David A Neubauer
US ARMY/1983 (pictured at right) HOMETOWN: Delmont, PA CURRENT LOCATION: Greensburg Recruiting Station FAMILY INFO: Wife Amy; Hannah, Seth JOB: infantry platoon sergeant MISS MOST ABOUT HOME: hunting and fishing FAVORITE PLACE ON THE JOB: New Boston Recreation area, New Hampshire PROUDEST ACHIEVEMENT: Training new soldiers in the US Army for 22 years FUTURE GOALS: To have my own business and a hobby farm WRITE TO ME AT: Lance.wilson@usarec.army.mil
PRIVATE FIRST CLASS, UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS (pictured at left) HOMETOWN: Greensburg, PA CURRENT LOCATION: Westmoreland Mall (recruiting office) JOB: Infantry, basic rifleman MISS MOST ABOUT HOME: I am stationed at home! FAVORITE PLACE ON THE JOB: Parris Island, SC because of how motivating the island is PROUDEST ACHIEVEMENT: becoming part of the world’s finest fighting force
Kevin Schoen
Vance Edward Phillips
STAFF SERGEANT, US AMRY, 1996 (pictured at left) HOMETOWN: Syracuse, NY CURRENT LOCATION: Greensburg Recruiting Station FAMILY: Wife, Monica; Kylie, Zachary, Kameron JOB: Military Police Squad Leader MISS MOST ABOUT HOME: Oswego Lake and water sports FAVORITE PLACE ON THE JOB: Baghdad, Iraq PROUDEST ACHIEVEMENT: Spending a yearin Iraq helping rebuild a troubled country. Jumping out of airplanes, repelling from helicopters FUTURE GOALS: to retire from Army and open my own business WRITE TO ME AT: kevin.schoen@usarec.mil
LCPL, US MARINE CORPS, 2002 (pictured at left) HOMETOWN: Latrobe, PA CURRENT LOCATION: Greensburg Recruiting Station JOB: Operator of the trucks and humvees MISS MOST ABOUT HOME: the freedom of being able to do what you want FAVORITE PLACE ON THE JOB: Camp Pendleton, California PROUDEST ACHIEVEMENT: two tours in Iraq, wounded in combat FUTURE GOALS: finish college at University of Pittsburgh WRITE TO ME AT: Shmance1049@yahoo.com
Bring Home A Ligonier Valley Historical Christmas Keepsake This year’s 2005 Christmas in the Ligonier Valley ornament is the new Bethlen Home. This ornament celebrates the completion of their new facility. Bethlen Home began its service to the community more than 80 years ago. On July 4, 1921, Bethlen Home was dedicated as an orphanage for Hungarian children. Its location on Kalassay Drive was named after one of the founders, Alexander Kalassay. In 1922, the Hungarian Reformed Federation of America (HRFA) bought a neighboring farm to provide food and revenue for the orphanage. Care for the elderly began in the 1930’s as the individuals tending to the orphans aged. Space became limited, however, so the orphanage moved to downtown Ligonier. It operated until it was closed and sold in 1979. In the two and a half decades that followed, Bethlen Home: Built Bethlen Cottages Retirement Village for those individuals 62 and over; converted the orphanage in downtown Ligonier into the Bethlen Apartments; offered more comprehensive senior care to the community through the Ligonier Gardens Personal Care & Retirement Center; re-
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placed the old Bethlen Home with the beautiful, state-ofthe-art Bethlen Home Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. The Bethlen Home skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center opened June 28, 2005. The Bethlen Home 96-bed replacement facility rests on a 108 acre hilltop (66 Carey School Road). The new building was designed to look and feel more like home, and less like an institution. Tours are available. Individuals interested in the Bethlen Communities may also request more information online at www.bethlen.com or call 724-238-6711. The ornament is number 22 in the series and is on sale at the Ligonier Valley Chamber of Commerce office for $8.00 including tax. If you need Christmas ornaments from prior years, please call the Chamber office for their availability at 724-238-4200. The Ligonier Valley Chamber of Commerce is also proud to present “The Ligonier Diamond Snow Globe”. The Diamond has long been the focal point of Ligonier Valley. Since Ligonier began as a stagecoach stop on the Phila-
delphia-Pittsburgh Turnpike, the Diamond was at first a place for parking wagons and resting horses while drivers and passengers sojourned in nearby taverns. Gradually, it became a public square. The grassy Diamond is crossed by two brick pathways that lead to the Bandstand in the center. Nature is at home here: The paths are lined with trees, flowers and park benches. The present bandstand was built in 1968, replacing another which was originally erected in 1894, and renovated in the 1920’s. Open-air band concerts are still given here every Sunday from the last Sunday in May to the last Sunday in August. Like all good town squares, the Diamond gives Ligonier an identity, a sense of place. Ligonier’s Town Square, one of the most handsome in the state, has always been known as “the Diamond.” The Ligonier Diamond Snow Globes will make a wonderful Christmas gift, keepsake for newlyweds, or a memento for those who have moved away and need a little bit of Ligonier. They make great paperweights. Price for the new snow globes are $39.95 plus tax. If you would like one shipped an additional $5.00 will be needed.
THE CORNER STORY Drew Williams
“Sand and Straw” Sam McReady said it was going to be easy money. Five hundred dollars under the table for five days work, maybe four if we hustled. It was a simple job. Some guy he knew named Mel Fairview in Derry needed a three bay prefab garage erected on his farm before the weekend. I don’t know what the particulars were-something about custom made doors being delivered on Sunday, but I wasn’t listening when Sam explained them. It had been nearly three months since I had anything that resembled a paying job, so McReady had me at five hundred bucks. Sam McReady ran a pretty successful construction business specializing in patios and decks, but he wasn’t above taking the occasional side job whenever it popped up. But he couldn’t ask any of his regular employees to stop working on a contracted job for a little moonlighting. That’s why he came to me. I had worked construction for nine years before getting laid off and was pressed for cash. Sam knew that, so, even though I jumped at the chance to work, I think he was short changing me with the pay. But like I said, it had been a while since my last paycheck so I wasn’t going to complain. Besides, he gave me a hundred up front. Sam told me to be at the Fairview place at eight sharp Monday morning, and I didn’t want to do anything to screw this job up so I made sure to get there ten minutes early. But as I steered my pickup to the top of the gravel, farm lane, I saw that someone else had beaten me there. A rusty, black Dodge Dart was parked near the side of an enormous red barn. I recognized the car immediately. I pulled up beside the Dart and had barely opened my door when I heard Gerry Newell’s familiar voice. “So McReady got you for this job too,” Gerry said with a laugh. He was leaning against the side of his car, his arms crossed against his chest and an unlit cigarette dangling from his mouth. “You must be as broke as me.” I got out of my truck and smiled. Gerry was in his mid-fifties and one of the hardest working men I knew. He was tall and thin and deceptively strongthe kind of man who looked like a strong wind could knock him over but could hang drywall all day and not break a sweat. “Yeah,” I said. “Things have been kind of slow.” Gerry nodded. “I know what you mean.” He pulled a disposable lighter from his pocket and lit his cigarette. “You think Sam will get here on time?” I shook my head. “Me neither,” Gerry laughed and pulled a small flask from his back pocket. He downed a quick hit and slipped it back into his pants. I didn’t say anything. I had worked with Gerry enough over the years to know that Gerry Newell existed on a diet of cigarettes, coffee and whiskey. On the job or off, it didn’t matter. That’s just the way he was. “Well speak of the devil,” Gerry said, pointing to the farm road. “Looks like Sam is going to be on time for once after all.” *****
The first day of work went rather smoothly. A concrete slab had been poured directly behind the barn where we were to erect the garage. Gerry and I worked well together, and in between Gerry taking an occasional nip at his flask and Sam more interested in barking out orders than lifting anything heavy, we managed to get the roof trusses put together and the side frames up before it was quitting time. I was pretty pleased with myself at the end of the day. If we kept up our pace we would be finished in four days, and I was already contemplat-
ing the possibility of my having a Friday evening with cash in my pocket. Sam, too, seemed happy with our effort. In fact, after we called it quits, he took out a cold six pack of beer from a cooler in his truck. Gerry, however, seemed a bit out of sorts. Sam noticed it too. “What’s eating you?” he asked as he passed Gerry a beer. “You haven’t said a word all afternoon.” Gerry took the beer and drained a quarter of it down his throat before he answered. He glanced to the left and cocked his thumb over his shoulder. “Ah,” he began. “Over there, in the field behind the barn. Old man Fairview got a scarecrow out there.” He shuddered and took another swig of beer. “I hate
those things,” he said. “Ever since I was a kid. Scarecrows just freak me out.” Sam slapped his knee and started to laugh. “You have got to be kidding me,” he said. “That is the stupidest thing I ever heard.” Gerry just shrugged, finished off his beer and grabbed another from the cooler. ***** The three of us had just finished erecting the second side wall when Gerry tapped me on the shoulder and pointed toward the field behind the barn. “Does that scarecrow look like it’s closer, to you?” I looked out and saw the scarecrow about two hundred feet away, its head bent downward and its arms stiff at its side. To tell you the truth I hadn’t even noticed the thing, so I really didn’t know what Gerry meant by ‘closer’. “I don’t think so,” I said. Gerry frowned and absently reached for the bottle in his pocket. Not quite lunch and already it was half empty. “I swear that thing moved,” he said, gesturing to the scarecrow. “Maybe ten, fifteen feet. But I know it’s closer.” He shot back a quick gulp, all the while never taking his eyes off the scarecrow. I was about to say that his imagination was playing tricks on him when Sam hurried up to our side. “What’s going on?” he asked. “You guys ready for lunch?” “Gerry thinks the scarecrow moved,” I told Sam. “That it’s closer to the barn by some fifteen feet.” Gerry didn’t say anything. He just kept staring at the scarecrow. “Oh for Pete’s sake,” Same said, pointing at the bottle in Gerry’s hand. “Maybe you ought to have a sandwich instead of a liquid lunch today.” Gerry spun around and thrust a finger at Sam. “Don’t you talk to me like that,” he yelled. “I know what I know and that thing is closer to us than it was yesterday.” Sam threw up his hands. “Fine. Whatever. The scarecrow is closer. But unless he’s coming up here and stealing your tools there’s no reason for itTMto get us behind schedule. Now why don’t you grab some lunch and get this scarecrow nonsense out of your head.” Sam turned and walked away while Gerry sulked and headed for his car and a quick refill of his flask. ***** We didn’t get as much done the second day as we did the first, but I was certain that we could have the job done before Friday. Sam was also fairly confident, but Gerry kept obsessing about that scarecrow. It got so bad that I thought about asking Mr. Fairview to take the thing down while we were working. But we made it through the day, and continued on page 24
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when we were done, I thought I’d stop at the Road House Tavern about a mile from the farm for a beer. Unfortunately, when I got there I discovered I was without my wallet. It only took me a few seconds to remember that I had taken it out of my pants at work when Gerry and I were screwing in one of the side braces into the garage’s back wall. I had to scrunch down in order to get the proper angle and my wallet kept digging into my rear end, so I took it out and put it on the workbench we set up in the middle of the garage. I hurried back to the farm and luckily, I found my wallet right where I had left it. As I was heading back to my truck, Sam called out to me. “What are you doing here? I thought you left.” He was coming from behind the barn, Mr. Fairview’s scarecrow in his arms. I ignored his question and asked one of my own. “What are you doing with that?” Sam grinned and motioned for me to follow him over to his car. “I moved the scarecrow,” he said, laughing. “After Gerry told us how he didn’t like scarecrows, I thought I’d play a joke on him. I moved the scarecrow closer to the barn to see if he would notice.” Sam’s laughter grew louder and he slapped his knee. “Boy did he ever.” “That was wrong,” I told him, but part of me thought the joke was pretty funny. “That really freaked him out.” “I know.” A wide grin spread across Sam’s round face. “That’s why I’m really going to get him tomorrow.” He tossed the scarecrow into the back of his car then took a plastic bag from his front seat. “I thought I’d play a little dress up,” he said, removing a rubber scarecrow mask from the bag. “I’m going to borrow his pants and jacket,” Sam said, motioning to the scarecrow in the back seat. “And give the Gerry the scare of his life.” I told Sam I didn’t think that was a good idea, that Gerry was already kind of high strung. “He’ll get over it,” Sam said, getting into his car. “See ya tomorrow.” *****
I intended on getting to work a little early. I wanted to tell Gerry about what Sam had planned. I don’t know why I thought I should do that because I actually thought Sam’s idea was pretty funny. But I forgot to set my alarm, and I ended up turning onto the lane to Fairview’s farm a few minutes after eight. I was barely half way up the farm lane when I saw a black plume of smoke rising into the sky. I thought it was odd but didn’t become concerned until I crested the hill and saw the halferected garage and the field behind the barn. It was on fire. I sped toward the barn, skidding my truck to a stop next to Gerry’s car. As I jumped out of the truck, Gerry was coming from behind the barn and walking slowly toward me. “What’s going on?” I yelled, pointing at the rising smoke. “What happened?” Gerry looked at me with an odd expression. “It was at the edge of the field,” he said. “It was standing at the edge of the field.” I ran up to Gerry and grabbed him by the shoulders. “What was at the edge of the field? What are you talking about?” Gerry looked at me blankly. “The scarecrow. It had moved to the edge of the field.” “Gerry,” I screamed. “What are you talking about?” “The scarecrow was at the edge of the field when I got here. I was looking at it, and it started waving at me. I swear it was waving.” As I stared into Gerry’s frightened eyes all I could think of was Sam boasting how he was going to give Gerry the scare of a lifetime. “What did you do, Gerry?” He shook his head and I repeated my question. In the distance I could hear the wail of a fire engine. “Gerry?” “I threw my bottle at it,” he said, his voice low and emotionless. “It hit him in the head. Then,” Gerry said, pausing to take a step away from me. “What, Gerry?” I asked, the sound of the siren growing louder. “What did you do?” Gerry extended his right hand revealing the lighter in his open palm. “I set it on fire.”
The Laurel Mountain Post is now accepting creative writing submissions. Send your work to our writing editor at PO Box 227, Latrobe PA 15650 or email: DrewWilliams@LaurelMountainPost.com
Earl,
ROBERT EARL. FILLMORE, JR. June 16, 1965 – October 3, 1993
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You have been missed since October 1993 . . . when you left the United States to help keep someone free. I have met many of your friends and acquaintances over the years, and the stories they tell me brings me to tears. You can’t be forgotten, Earl, even if we tried, because you left a piece of your heart over the world wide. It is so amazing to me that the boy I knew , grew up to be a soldier so true. God knew what he was doing the day he chose you, to guard Heavens Gates and the Red, White , and Blue. I wish you were here, the world is a mess; I’d trust you to help put a lot of this to rest. I know you are in Heaven looking down on us now, please continue to help us get through these trials. You are sadly missed, but I am very proud, to be one of the many to honor you. I love you Earl. Your sister,
Brenda
Music Censorship in the 50s and 60s! A few examples that are sure to bring a smile to your face . . . 1955 - Elvis Presley told if he moves in appearances in San Diego and Florida he would be arrested on obscenely charges 1956 - Parks Department in San Antonio Texas removes all rock and roll records from juke boxes located at local swimming pools terming it ‘jumpy, hot stuff’ that is unsuitable for teens 1957 - Ed Sullivan producers instruct cameramen to shoot Elvis Presley from the waist up only 1958 - The Mutual Broadcasting system drops all rock and roll records from its network music programs calling it “distorted, monotonous, noisy music” 1959 - Wanting to secure an appearance on American Bandstand, Lloyd Price agrees to re-cut his hit, “Stagger Lee,” removing all references to violence 1959 - “Charlie Brown” - The BBC refuses to play the Coasters hit because of its reference to ‘throwin’ spit balls’ 1960 - “Tell Laura I Love Her” by Ray Peterson - banned from several radio stations for being a ‘death disc’ 1961 - BBC bans the song “100 Pounds of Clay,” by Gene McDaniels because it has a reference to woman being created from building materials, which the network considers blasphemous 1962 - BBC bans “Monster Mash” by Bobby ‘Boris’ Pickett 1964 - “Louie Louie” - FBI investigation begins 1964 - “Puff the Magic Dragon” - Illinois crime commission ads this song to it’s published list of popular songs with drug references 1965 - “I Can’t Get No Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones - banned across the country 1965 - “Eve of Destruction” by Barry McGuire pulled from store shelves and banned from radio play because it promoted suicidal feelings in teens 1966 - Lou Christie changes lyrics for “Rhapsody in the Rain” after it is censored 1966 - “Let’s Spend the Night Together” The Rolling Stones - Ed Sullivan made them change it to ‘let’s spend some time together’ for an appearance on his program 1966 - “Gloria” - by Them, re-recorded to delete the phrase, ‘she comes to my room’ 1966 - “Double Shot of My Baby’s Love” - banned, re-released with more benign lyrics. The live version, however became the big hit 1967 - “Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison,re-cut without racy lyrics 1967 - “Light My Fire” by The Doors, the group was banned from Ed Sullivan show for not changing lyrics ‘girl we couldn’t get much higher’ after they had agreed to 1967 - “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” investigated for reference to LSD – compiled by Ruth Richardson
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Unique Education Programs & Events Across Westmoreland County
ScienceWISE Is Inspiring Tomorrow’s Scientists “Nothing is in the mind that is not first in the hand’” — Aristotle It’s not new – in fact, it’s a very old concept – the idea that hands-on investigation or inquiry-based instruction in science can help children learn. But the concept is being revisited as testing shows American students lagging behind their counterparts in other parts of the world in science skills. Dr. Gene Leonard is a believer in the idea that inquiry-based teaching works. In fact, he was such a proponent that after retiring as supervisor of the elementary schools in the Greater Latrobe School District he started the program, ScienceWISE, which operates out of Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA and is partnering with 11 school districts, mostly in Westmoreland County, in an effort to enhance the way science is taught and learned at the elementary school and middle school levels. “The movement to reform science impacts on more than just science. Inquiry is a way of thinking that transcends all of the traditional academic areas,” Dr. Leonard says of the program which is serving nearly 20,000 students. The mission of ScienceWISE is to ensure that students in elementary schools will understand and apply fundamental concepts of inquiry science. This is accomplished by preparing teachers to provide content-based, inquiry-centered instruction utilizing professional development, regional support and collaboration, and quality hands-on materials. Through ScienceWISE, school districts can get core curriculum of hands-on science instruction (selecting from 40 widely varied titles) for grades K-8. The six- to eight-week instructional units include all of the materials necessary for class investigations and are selected from Science and Technology for Children (STC) and Full Option Science System (FOSS) . . . both programs use a hands-on inquiry approach to teaching and learning, and both programs address the state and national science standards.
Besides supplying the materials, ScienceWISE also provides the teacher training, takes care of replenishing the science module kits and provides assistance with assessment. The instructional units offer topics in the areas of life science, physical science, earth science, and design technology, and are targeted for kindergarten to eighth grades. Among the sampling of topics of the nearly four dozen units are Animal Studies, Plant Growth And Development, The Life Cycle Of Butterflies, Solids And Liquids, Food Chemistry, Weather, Soils, Rocks & Minerals, Land & Water, Floating And Sinking, Comparing And Measuring, Sound and more.
Students are taught to record observations and data in this fourth grade “Land and Water” science unit.
“The science lessons are designed to engage the students in vivid, memorable experimentation, observation and inquiry,” Dr. Leonard points out. “Ideas that previously involved memorization suddenly take shape in interactive lessons in a way that students can see, touch, understand and remember.” One fifth grader offered her own assessment. “These hands-on experiments make you tremble with excitement and leave you hanging to find out what you’re going to do next.” Community support for ScienceWISE is evidenced when scientists volunteer in the classroom, when information sessions are requested by area PTOs, schools boards and community groups, and when financial support comes from private and corporate foundations.
Close observations lead to more questions and further inquiries.
That ScienceWISE has developed a relationship with Saint Vincent College should be no surprise to those who are familiar with the longstanding commitment to improving the pre-college teaching of science and mathematics that Saint Vincent College has demonstrated. That commitment was underscored when Saint Vincent College was invited to take part in a five-year National Science Foundation-funded Math Science Partnership Project designed to bring together 40 school districts and several institutions of higher education to focus on strengthening student achievement by improving the quality of teaching mathematics and science.
ScienceWISE Schools and School Districts: Diocese of Greensburg Schools (Aquinas Academy, Christ the Divine Teacher School, Mary Queen of Apostles School, Mother of Sorrows School, Queen of Angels School, Sacred Heart School, Saint Bernard School, Saint Gertrude School, Saint Sebastian School), Derry Area School District, Franklin Regional School District, Greater Latrobe School District, Greensburg Salem School District, Hempfield Area School District, Indiana Area School District, Jeannette City School District, Ligonier Valley School District, Mount Pleasant Area School District, Monessen City School District. ScienceWISE is an outreach program at Saint Vincent College, Visit its webpage at: http://www.stvincent.edu/static/sciencewise/index.htm
Students assume responsibilities in caring for living material.
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THE REC ROOM Jim Kasperik
Coach Lou Tepper – Life Lessons Through Football Vince Lombardi once said “winning isn’t everything, it’s the only thing.” Those words have rung true in the sports world for many years and for many coaches, but only a few select coaches take the time and effort to develop the character of the athletes as well. For over thirty years Lou Tepper, a native of the Laurel Highlands, has excelled as an assistant and head football coach at various levels all the while teaching each athlete to be a better person.
running back and linebacker for Derry and was part of an offensive backfield that sent three people to play at Division I schools. “There were so many scouts coming to look at others on the team that they saw me also.” From this exposure, Lou was offered the chance to attend school and play running back at Rutgers University in New Jersey. Lou accepted and after growing up in a small town, he was about to embark on the next phase of his life.
Life In A Small Town A great deal of people state that they hail from a small town, but for Lou Tepper that may even be an understatement. Lou was born on September 7, 1945 and was raised in Keystone, Pennsylvania – a town with a population of less than two hundred people. As Lou reminisced, he stated that not much has changed between now and then in Keystone. In fact there is still only one stop sign that you see as you pass through!
A Scarlet Knight – Education and Football at Rutgers University
As Lou arrived at Rutgers University for his freshman year – he became only the second person at that time from his hometown to attend college (his sister was the first!). The differences were “you must be apparent to him immediately. In fact strong in your the lecture halls of 150 students and convictions and the larger town atmosphere had Lou strong in what “scared to death.” But as he had done before, he focused on what he needed you believe is to do. “I had to make it” Lou recalled, best for the As Lou was growing up, his father so he concentrated on football and scholarworked hard to support the family and schoolwork and had “no time initially athlete’s he began to understand the value of for a social life.” During that time, future.” hard work. Playing sports was a reFreshman did not play varsity (playing ward for Lou as his father stressed the only a freshman schedule) so he was importance of getting good grades first. able to set his foundation for his reTherefore by excelling in the classroom, Lou could maining three years. pursue his growing passion for athletics. After beginning at the running back position, Lou In 1959, there were only three varsity sports at Derry was switched to cornerback and linebacker for his – football, basketball and track – and Lou decided sophomore season – the switched turned out to be to try out for each. As a freshman in football, Lou permanent. Not only was it permanent, but it was began to develop as a reliable, tough and smart quite productive as well. Lou went on to lead the player. After football season, Lou’s basketball coach Scarlet Knights in interceptions as a Junior and (also his football coach) assumed he would carry tackles as a Senior all the while earning his BS his success from the field to the court. Lou still Degree in Physical Education. remembers the coach’s comment the first time he was on the court – “Tepper, what are you doing?!” From that day forward, although his hoops skills The Coaching Life – A Positive Influence on improved, Lou stuck with football and throwing javYoung People’s Lives elin for the track team. During Lou’s time at Rutgers, his passion for footDuring Lou’s Senior year, he played quarterback, ball grew and this was leading him directly to the
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coaching ranks. At the same time, he was developing strong convictions on racial harmony. As he witnessed a fellow student being isolated and subjected to racism, he knew he could not only be a great coach but make a difference in our society. So as Lou coached throughout the nation, his theme of racial harmony and awareness among his players and staff continued to resonate. “The bottom line to some alumni is simply to win” he stated, “but you must be strong in your convictions and strong in what you believe is best for the scholar-athlete’s future.” He continued, “Football is merely a tool – not good or bad, just a tool” to accomplish your life goals. Back In Western Pennsylvania After traveling the country – Illinois, Louisiana, Virginia, Colorado – and coaching over twenty players that went onto to the NFL, Lou Tepper is back in Western Pennsylvania as the head coach of Edinboro University. His return has been a success so far and one that he and his family have truly enjoyed. Last year Edinboro had a breakthrough year and was ranked 18th nationally and this year, the Fighting Scots have started well and again are nationally ranked. While winning is important, certainly it is not the only thing. Lou Tepper has shown that football coaches not only can be successful in winning games but they can succeed in producing fine young people as well. Using football as a positive influence on athlete’s lives has led many of Lou’s players to have a much better social understanding as they leave college. This combination of coaching skills and life lesson skills is rare to find in a coach, and I hope that alumni and fans alike appreciate that in Lou Tepper. Jim Kasperik was born in Derry and has lived in the Laurel Highlands most of his life. He received his Engineering degree from Carnegie Mellon University and his MBA from The Pennsylvania State University. He has worked at Latrobebased Kennametal, Inc. for over ten years. During his school years Jim played football, baseball, volleyball and basketball, and still enjoys playing hoops whenever he can. His love for the competition that sports provides has kept him continually interested in sports year round.
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WHERE’S MUGGSY? On the Scene with David “Muggsy” Miles
Pittsburgh Steelers Training Camp St. Vincent College, Latrobe
Something to Crow About The Merchants Committee of the Ligonier Valley Chamber of Commerce would like to remind everyone to enter your Scarecrow for the 14th Annual Scarecrow Contest. Interested businesses, organizations, or individuals may participate by creating life size scarecrows for display around the Diamond and surrounding streets of Ligonier from October 19 until November 1. Cash prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places. The public will vote for “Honorable Mention” by ballot for “Community Favorite” in participating shops. Cash prizes are compliments of Loyalhanna Realty. The community and visitors look forward to this event as we celebrate autumn with the whimsical scarecrows decorating the Lampposts around the Diamond in Ligonier. To enter a Scarecrow, stop in the Chamber office located in Town Hall and pick up the contest guidelines.
THE LLAUREL AUREL MOUNT AIN POST MOUNTAIN IS NOW LLOOKING OOKING FOR
Muggsy caught up with the Steelers, fans and sports legends like Joe Theisman (pictured above left with Muggsy) during their August visit to St. Vincent College. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (above right with Editor Cathi Williams) says he enoys the quiet, outdoor atmosphere of the Latrobe area. Photos by Marketing Director Briana Tomack, and Rudy Mauro of Harrison City.
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respondence and good quality paper, then you will always prefer that personal touch.” The best thing about the old fashioned pen-and-ink letters is the good emotional feeling that your friends and relatives get when they receive that special personal note. The style and quality of the paper is an extension of the personality of the sender. And with the variety of postage stamps available, even the envelope can reflect your taste.
As I left the shop, I was confident that my party would be as successful as Claudia’s. Who knows? My event might even be as historic as well! Bring on the “Entertaining Season”! I’m ready ! J.B. Rossi wishes to thank all the family and friends who have generously supported all of her recent endeavors. Special thanks go out to her loving husband who has the wisdom of a sage and the patience of a saint! You are my everything!
Within minutes, we had decided on the best theme for my gathering, selected the perfect invitations, and ordered all the paper products. Smith patiently answered every one of my endless questions and even freshened up my water bottle for my jog home. I once read that every successful person surrounds herself with the experts she needs to get the job done right. I have found a new ally to add to my cabinet and a great rest stop on my fall jogging trail.
EASTERN ALLIANCE TAEKWON-DO is moving to downtown Latrobe!
Mozart House News Our Banquet Hall will be re-opening soon. Look for details in the next issue of the Laurel Mountain Post!
Summer Is for the Birds at The Powdermill
The 2nd Pennsylvania Breeding Bird Atlas field crew, a group of expert birders, spent the summer canvassing the state for evidence of breeding birds. They encountered several species that had not been found twenty years ago when data was collected for the first PA Breeding Bird Atlas. In addition to working extremely long hours every day throughout the season, they conducted point counts at nearly 10,000 randomly selected locations in the state. Among the unusual finds for PA were Sandhill Cranes and Trumpeter
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Swans. Significant numbers of Cerulean Warblers, Henslow’s Sparrows, and Upland Sandpipers, thought to be declining in the state, were also found. At far left is the 2nd PBBA Project Coordinator for the state, Bob Mulvihill, and at far right, the Assistant Project Coordinator, Mike Lanzone. Both ornithologists are on staff at Powdermill Nature Reserve in Rector. Photos of Cerulean Warbler (left) and Trumpeter Swans (right) by Tom Johnson.
north
Pick Up A Copy of the Laurel Mountain Post Across the County & Neighboring Communities! DERRY A Touch of Class AH Creations Allison Chiropractic Center Ameriserv Financial Barkley’s Beer Distributor Caldwell Memorial Library Camman Industries, Inc. Creative Dreams Crispin State Farm Insurance Dablock’s Beauty Shop Derry Federal Credit Union Derry Post Office First Commonwealth Bank George J Bush Kitchen Center Glassmart Gooch’s Herron Hollow Stonery J & K Produce Mastrorocco’s Market Dr. Morgan, DMD Palombo’s Bar & Restaurant Prakash K. Vin, M.D.P.C Pit Stop Quik Shop, Inc. Red Apple Kwik Fill Rite Aid S&T Bank Sunkissed Tanning GREENSBURG Academy of the Wagging Tail Advantage Resource Group American Indian Jewelry Art Tech Supplies Barnes & Noble Booksellers Bill & Walt’s Hobby Shop Cook’s Market Crossroads (Route 66) Denny’s (Westmoreland Mall) Derby’s Delicatessen Descendents Children’s Clothing Boutique The Dinner Pantry Dr. Philip Dahar, Orthodontist dV8 Expresso Bar Fantastic Sam’s - E. Pittsburgh St Fantastic Sam’s - WalMart Plaza Gander Mountain Gianilli’s II Glassmart Greensburg Care Center Ground Round - Westmoreland Mall Hampton Inn Herbs to Your Health Holiday Inn Express Hyundai of Greensburg Just Miniature Scale Katsur Dental Kids Korner Furniture Malloy’s Cameracade Memory Lane Hallmark Mountain View Inn Mustard Seed Gallery, Inc. Northwood Realty - Greensburg Northwood Realty - North Huntingdon Pagnotta Cafe Paouncic Chiropractic Life Center Penelope’s
Pepperwood Grille - Westmoreland Mall Phillip Pelusi - Westmoreland Mall Pizza Hut Pizza Siena Seton Hill University Sharp Image Hair Designs and Day Spa Sheraton Four Points Hotel Shop ‘n Save- Westmoreland Mall Sun Parlor Super 8 Motel Tom Clark Ford Toyota of Greensburg University of Pittsburgh Westmoreland Athletic Club Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce Worldwide Travel LATROBE Adam & Eve’s Pet & Hobby Shop Adelphoi Village Arnold Palmer Motors Inc Arnold Palmer Regional Airport Aqua Pets Bella Pasta The Corner Store Chiropractic Health Center Commercial National Bank Downtown and Lawson Heights Creative Expressions Denny’s Dino’s Sports Lounge DiNunzio’s Italian Chophouse DiSalvo’s Station Restaurant Dr. Philip Dahar, Orthodontist Dr. Scott Learn, DMD Falbo’s Rainbow Inn First Commonwealth Bank First National Bank - Latrobe 30 Plaza First National Bank - Downtown Frank’s Lounge Gino’s Pizza of Latrobe Hanna Insurance Agency Harvey’s Barber Shop Holzer’s Store Hostetter Club In-Sync Rehabilitation Services Jocelyn’s Beauty Salon Joe’s Store – Lawson Heights Kaye’s Tailoring L & L Quik Lube Latrobe 30 Beverage Latrobe Animal Clinic Latrobe Art Center Latrobe Center Distributing, Inc. Latrobe Chamber of Commerce Latrobe Glass & Mirror Latrobe Hair Company Latrobe Hospital Little Shop Latrobe News Stand Latrobe Post Office Latrobe Senior Center Latrobe’s Pet Stop, LLC Len’s Jewelry Loyalhanna Care Center Mosso’s Medical Supply Company Inc Mozart House National City Bank - Latrobe 30 Plaza Northwood Realty
Pennywise Books Petrosky’s Pro Hardware Pizza Siena Ray Foot & Ankle Center Rose Style Shoppe Scotty G’s Pizzaria Sharky’s Cafe Sherwin-Williams - Latrobe 30 Plaza Shop-N-Save - Latrobe 30 Plaza St. Vincent College St Vincent Gristmill Tuxedo Room Van Dyke Styling Center Vickie’s Awesome Blossoms Vita-Charge Weiss Furniture Wingate Inn Youngstown Tire Zappone Sausage Company and Retail Outlet LIGONIER Abigail’s Coffeehouse American Indian Jewelry Beno’s Betsy’s of Ligonier BP (CoGo’s) Carol & Dave’s Roadhouse Celtic Culture Compass Inn ComTech Connections Store The Country Cupboard Crafts Unlimited Curves for Women Diamond Cafe Endless Possibilities Equine Chic Essentials The Fairfield Grille The Frame Place The Garret Giant Eagle Gino Gianelli’s Hair Parade Holiday Home Store The Hollow Tavern Ivy’s Cafe John Clark Jewelers Lady Bug Style Lady of the Lake Bed & Breakfast La Rosa’s Barber Shop Laughlintown Post Office Ligonier Chamber of Commerce Ligonier Country Inn Ligonier Outfitters & Newsstand Ligonier Palms Tanning Salon Ligonier Post Office Ligonier Tavern Main Street Deli Pamela’s Golden Touch Salon The Paper House & Baskitry Pathfinder Photo Persnickity The Pie Shoppe The Post and Rail The Road Toad Ruthie’s Diner
west east south The Sandwich Shoppe The Treehouse in Ligonier Underneath NEW ALEXANDRIA 22 Diner Curves for Women Di’s Pizzeria & Restaurant Johna’s Hair Design Oasis Hotel Qwik Stop The Roadhouse NORTH Blairsville Pharmacy - Blairsville Dean’s Diner - Blairsville Fantastic Sam’s - Blairsville Guy’s Tavern - Avonmore Jerich Insurance - Leechburg Lonestar - Avonmore Melissa’s Cut ‘n Curl - Blairsville Northwood Realty - Blairsville Papa Sal’s Restaurant - Blairsville Pie Cucina - Blairsville SOUTH Coming Soon! EAST Betsy’s Collections - Donegal ©Laura Petrilla Cogo’s - Bakersville Collections by Marty - Donegal The Country Pie Shoppe - Donegal Courtyard by Marriott - Altoona Darshana Yoga Center - Champion Hair Expressions - Seven Springs Foggy Mountain - Donegal Italian Gourmet Deli - Donegal Kreinbrooks Market - Jones Mills Living Treasures Animal Park - Donegal Log Cabin Motel - Donegal Lost Mountain Campground - Rockwood Loyalhanna Veterinary Clinic - Stahlstown Mountain Horse Saddlery - Donegal Northwood Realty - Donegal Oakhurst Tea Room - Somerset Sarnelli’s Market - Jones Mills Seven Springs Mountain Resort -Champion Tall Cedars Restaurant - Donegal UniMart - New Florence Windy Lindy’s Mountaineer Crafts - Donegal WEST Courtyard by Marriott -Penn Ave (David L. Lawrence Conv. Ctr.) Would you like the Laurel Mountain Post delivered to your business? Give us a call at 724-331-3936. We’ll list your business name in the print and online editions!
LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST - 29
CUT TO THE CHASE COUPON VALUES 10% Off Any Purchase
Free Appetizer with the Purchase of 2 Dinner Entrees
With This Coupon
with the purchase of TWO lunch or dinner entrees
expires 11/15/05
expires 11/15/05
Latrobe-Derry Rd Bradenville, PA
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expires 11/15/05
109 South Market Street, Ligonier
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Scotty G’ s Pizzaria G’s Large Plain 12-cut Pizza
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toppings additional, pick-up only (expires 11/15/05)
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New Location: 123 W. Main Street
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LATROBE
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Save 25% off REFILLING OF C02 PAINTBALL CYLINDERS WITH THIS COUPON THRU 12-31-2005
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AQUAPET
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218 W Main St in Ligonier
815 East Pittsburgh St. Greensburg, PA 15601
Equine Chic
1/2 PRICE APPETIZER
SAVE 25 O OFF O
REG. PRICED ITEMS w/COUPON THRU 10/22/2005
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5556 Route 982
4915 Route 982 Latrobe, PA
(Across from Derry Middle School)
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50% OFF ALL ADS IN THE LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST HOLIDAY 2005 ISSUE (does not include coupons)
Get the Most from Every Gallon of Gasoline by Taking Care of Your Vehicle Your car needs 9,000 gallons of air to burn one gallon of gas. A dirty air filter makes your engine work harder due to restricted air flow causing wasted fuel. Air filters should be fresh for max fuel capacity. You should be able to see light through your filter. If you can’t — it needs to be changed. Low tire pressure will create drag on the vehicle due to road friction. Properly inflated tires will conserve fuel. See owners manual for proper tire pressure. One of the most important changes you can make is to keep your tires inflated to the highest recommended level. However, too much pressure will exhibit in greater tread wear in the center of the tire. Driving with too little pressure is dangerous because tires can overheat causing sudden tire failure. Driving with too much pressure in tires can also be dangerous because tires are more likely to be cut or punctured by sudden impact. Why tires lose pressure: Under normal conditions you lose 1 PSI per month. 30 - LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST
So, if you don’t check a tire for 6 months, you are running at least 6PSI too low. Tires should be checked monthly.
Avoid high speed starts – it takes a surge of fuel to get your car from 0-55 quickly. Easing the car from 0-55 will save gas usage and reduce engine wear.
You should always check the pressure in tires when they are cool, before driving. Why? Because driving increases the temp in tires, therefore increasing pressure. If you have to drive a distance to get air, check the tire pressure before you go, then add the appropriate amount of air once you get there. Also, never release pressure, or “bleed” a tire when it is hot.
A properly tuned engine is more efficient when all spark plugs are firing correctly.
Air pressure can go up in warm weather or down in cold weather 1-2 pounds for each 10 degrees of temp change, so check your pressure often for fuel economy!
Air conditioning works via a refrigerant compressor under the hood of your car. When you turn on the AC, you engage the compressor, which creates drag on the engine, thus consuming fuel. Use the AC as little as possible to conserve fuel.
Clean oil will reduce friction and engine operating temp. This will save fuel because the engine runs more efficiently. Clean fluids will dissipate heat. It is important that fluids such as power steering, transmission, and engine coolant are kept clean. Fluids that are dirty retain heat and rob your car of fuel economy.
Remember — an engine is a dirt-making machine. Getting the dirt out and keeping the fluids fresh and filters clean will always be a benefit to your fuel economy and life of your engine.
Car tips written by Angelo Caruso, Jr., Co-Owner/President, L&L Quik Lube (102 Depot Street in Latrobe) and Bill Fowler, Owner/Operator, Youngstown Tire (4369 Latrobe Street in Youngstown).
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