Laurel Mountin Post :: Winter/Holiday 2012

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Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind ?

Normally, a subject like this would and homemade noodles among other • Making Christmas cookies with my come at the end of our publication, as classic comfort foods. mother, and eating way too much raw we wind up our holiday coverage and • Counting the houses with Christmas dough. look forward to a near year. But as I lights in all the local neighborhoods.

• My favorite holiday specials, the put together this issue, I couldn’t help • My father usually missing Christanimated classics from Rankin Bass but notice a repeated theme of rememmas dinner, because he got called out (with Rudolph, Frosty, Bergermeister brance. More than usual, this time of to plow roads when it snowed. We felt Meisterberger, and Heat Miser), and year we can’t seem to help ourselves, guilty wishing for a white Christmas, especially when Fonzie played Scrooge repeatedly visiting with the ghosts of and his arrival after work always in an American Christmas Carol.

Christmas Past. made me appreciate and miss him Usually, we focus on those happy more. I still think of him every time it I can get lost thinking back on all of times that made us feel like we’re snows. that nostalgia. Life was wonderful wrapped in one of Perry Como’s styl• Long-lost relatives or friends showand simple for me as a child, and I ish, comfy sweaters. For me, there’s ing up to visit for a while, and often often wish I could return to those a montage of scenes from childhood: wishing they had never left. times, those people and places. In the • Advent calendars first part of my adultmy mother used to hood, I spent most make for us and still Christmases fretting Devoted to the Man Who Invented Casual does for children in over what I wanted the family. and what I had lost – Somewhere along the way, I developed a crush on Perry Como It’s not because he was • My father putting so much so, that I a western Pennsylvania boy (born in Canonsburg, PA in 1912), but that surely strengthens my bond. Perhaps his preference for relaxed attire (golf clothes) made out hay, corn and never really enjoyed him seem more friendly to me as a child – in that Mr. Rogers and Arnold Palmer sort oats next to the barn what I had as fully as of way. Bing Crosby called him “the man who invented casual,” but that didn’t stop door so the reindeer I could. It took a very him from being named one of the Ten Best Dressed Men of the United States by the could have a snack. long time to find only fashion industry in 1946, 1966 and 1983. Celebrity aside, he also had that working• Picking out a sweet comfort in class charm about him, as a trained barber in the local shop. I suppose all of this just proves the equation: Perry Como was a western Pennsylvania girls’ dreamboat.

Christmas Tree bethose holiday memoBy the time I was born in 1969, he was just a nice, older man who sang Christmas hind old Uncle Dan ries rather than so songs on television: and next to Santa Claus, he was the coolest guy ever. That was my Yates’s service stamuch grief. Slowly I first introduction to his era of entertainment. To me, this entire group of old-fashioned tion near Coopersbegan to take the crooners existed to celebrate the holidays: Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Percy Faith town (where the new best of what I used to and Ray Conniff orchestras, Danny Kaye, Nat King Cole, and so many others. My shelves are full of their holiday CDs and my personalized Pandora Christmas station Commercial Bank know, and apply it to is called “Perry Como Radio.” It’s not the holidays without them, and when I hear drive-thru and Mcmy current world.

Perry Como tell me to have myself a merry little Christmas . . . (first I squeal like a Donalds stand today).

I made peace with delighted little girl, but then-) all my troubles soon turn into bubbles.

• Going to my the marching toy solGrammy’s house in diers of time, and for Cooperstown for our the sake of auld lang • A week off from school!

Christmas Eve snack and cookies afsyne, now joyfully give toast to all those • Trips to King’s Nursery to see their ter church, and then again on Christunopened packages of life waiting unChristmas Land full of decorated mas Day for the family “White Meal,” der my Christmas trees. trees and other sparkly holiday which consisted of turkey, stuffing, things. white pepper gravy, mashed potatoes – Cathi Gerhard, Editor Every Story Begins At Home.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 1

Laurel Mountain Post Mediterranean Tour 2012 Athens, Mykonos, Ephesus, Istanbul, Pisa, Rome, Venice

LMP Columnist Cindy Parker photographed by Larry Parker

Be sure to take the Laurel Mountain Post along on YOUR next trip – and send us the photos!

Jessica Prosdocimo Will Race at the Pittsburgh Street Shop ‘n Save for the Westmoreland County Food Bank on November 12, 2012 United Way of Westmoreland County announces Jessica Prosdocimo from Murrysville, PA, as the winner of the Shop ‘n Save Step Up Prize and grocery shopping spree benefiting the Westmoreland County Food Bank. Jessica works as a Customer Service Representative for the Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County. Her strategy is to gather staples, such as peanut butter, cereal, canned tuna or salmon, fruit juices, salad dressings, pasta, and soups for families in need.

Thanks to the generosity of Ray Charley and his family, not only does Jessica win a $250 gift certificate for Shop ‘n Save merchandise, but also the Westmoreland County Food Bank will receive hundreds of dollars of merchandise from the winner’s run through the store, which starts at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, November 12, 2012.

The United Way of Westmoreland County (UWWC) offers this incentive to those who participate in the annual campaign to highlight the need for food by thousands of 2 - Winter/Holiday 2012

families in our area. With over 15,000 individuals utilizing the resources of pantries throughout the County annually, hunger is a real issue in Westmoreland County. Many working families need food due to the loss of a job, challenges from major medical issues, or rising costs of basic needs such as housing, heat, transportation and/or medicine.

The United Way of Westmoreland County is a nonprofit organization that invests its resources in efforts that solve critical community problems with measurable results.

Covering Westmoreland, Fayette and portions of Armstrong Counties, the UWWC serves over 100,000 people through partnerships in three targeted areas: Helping children attain Success in Learning and Life; Supporting the Basic Needs and Financial Stability for the community; and, Ensuring Health Access and Independence for our neighbors.

For more information please contact the UWWC at 724834-7170 or visit us on the web at unitedway4u.org.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

MEMORY LANE

by Ruthie Richardson

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year It’s hard to read those words and not have the song dance merrily through your mind. I think music truly is “the soundtrack of our lives.” I can easily be transported to another time and place, just by hearing the first few notes of a long forgotten melody. When Andy Williams serenaded us with this tune, he was brilliant in conveying the joy and anticipation that comes with the season. So was Perry Como when he crooned these unforgettable lyrics, “There’s No Place Like Home For The Holidays.”

Back in the ‘olden days’ when I was growing up in my little house in West Derry, that Perry Como hit was usually the first holiday song we heard emanating from our old Silvertone wire recorder/radio as it sat grandly in our living room. For me, it was a magical song - the prelude that would welcome that most wonderful time of the year.

Even now, Mr. Como can musically transport me back to those days. I can still remember unexpectedly hearing that song serenading us right before Thanksgiving. Instantly my thoughts would be filled with visions of a banquet of my mom’s lovingly prepared turkey feast, followed by a procession of sugarplums dancing in my head.

Why is it that I recall those days as being so gentle and sweet, and why does it seem to stand in such contrast to some of the things I see today? Has the aging process made me a little grumpy and cantankerous? Or is it really a very different world than the one I grew up in? Maybe a little of my annoyance was caused by seeing a Christmas commercial on television, telling us to BUYBUY -BUY ….in mid-October.

Every fall I bleakly anticipate some new controversies about Thanksgiving and Christmas. Will I hear how cruel and vicious our ancestors were to the Indians? Will the lessons we were Every Story Begins At Home.

taught about the Pilgrims and Indians learning from each other, working together and sharing their bounty be replaced by stories of hatred and treachery and greed? I know it wasn’t all sunshine and roses, but why can’t

The jolly, old fat man and a tentative Ruth Elaine.

the protestors hold off on the trashing of a wonderful and uplifting story until mid January? We will already be depressed by then, and a little more angst added to the mix of freezing rain, sleet and black ice probably wouldn’t make much difference. And as for Christmas, will baby Jesus and his manger be evicted from another location on His birthday? Are the

colors red and green offensive and should they be banned in elementary school for the month of December? Do I have to beware of smiling at a stranger and wishing them a Merry Christmas lest they take it the ‘wrong way’ and get offended? I fear the ‘most wonderful time of the year’ is fast becoming the most disparaged and controversial time. When did it all become so sadly convoluted? I remember it all so differently …

While October was always a spooky, fun-filled and visually stunning month in my little hamlet, the true magic began in late November. After the Halloween paraphernalia and masks (or as my mom always called them, false faces) were packed away, we immediately turned our attention to the grand celebrations that would close out the year. Thanksgiving was first up on that delightful list. My mom’s menu and expert way around the kitchen was always the star of the fete, but we were also taught the meaning behind the feast, not only at home and at church, but at school as well. Thanksgiving was referred to in almost every class.

Spelling words were geared toward Pilgrims and Indians, as well as roast turkey and pumpkin pie. Reading class consisted of stories of that first feast in our young country, and how it came to be. We learned about the struggles of those hearty souls, and the tales of sharing, and helping one another, of learning to harvest those succulent wild turkeys and the delicious surprise of a new vegetable–maize. In music class we sang our little hearts out to “Turkey In The Straw” and “Over The River And Through The Woods”, as well as songs of Thanksgiving we had learned in church and Sunday school, like the soaring “Come, Ye Thankful People continued on page 4 Winter/Holiday 2012 - 3

Come.” Our classrooms were decorated festively with the masterpieces we learned to create in art class. We made tracings of our hands that we cleverly transformed into turkeys, adding a smile and a beak to the thumb and colored feathers to the fingers. We made Indian headdresses and Pilgrim hats from construction paper. There were also mimeographed pictures we had colored of the Pilgrims and Indians, gathered around bountiful tables of food, their heads bowed in prayer. Because, after all, this was Thanksgiving, or the day to give thanks, and that meant thanks to the Lord above for all of our blessings. It all seemed so simple back then, and our teachers used the holiday to teach us wonderful lessons.

As the Thanksgiving weekend wound down, mom would create the last of her innumerable left over turkey dishes and my brother and I would polish off the pies. Come that Sunday afternoon, Daddy would head for the garage, stepladder in tow. His main goal was getting all his hunting paraphernalia out for the first day of deer season. But mom would make sure she supervised as he also dragged down her brown cardboard boxes of Christmas decorations from the little storage area in the garage rafters.

While mom helped us carefully unpack those glittery treasures, the old Silvertone would be playing in the background, reminding us that our house was ‘Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas’, and that ‘Santa Clause Was Coming To Town!” Those beloved and well-worn songs conjure the most striking and vivid memories for me. I can close my eyes and be back there in an instant, replaying it all in my mind, like a rerun of a favorite old movie. I can make a sentimental journey back, back to where I remember life being so sweet and simple, and at Christmastime, agonizingly exciting.

Most everyone went to church in those days. At least most everyone I knew. The churches, especially at Chrismastime, were always bustling and my church, The EUB (Ecumenical United Brethern) in West Derry was no exception. The Sunday after Thanksgiving offered our first preview of the 4 - Winter/Holiday 2012

music to come as we opened our hymnals and sang the first Christmas Carols of the season. I was in the junior choir, and at choir practice on Sunday evening we were given the music for the anthem we would perform at the Christmas Pageant. The Pageant was usually held the Sunday afternoon before Christmas, and we knew the sanctuary would be filled to capacity with our families, neighbors and friends, awaiting our performances. In Sunday school, our teachers handed out our speeches. Each kid was given a little something to say at the Pageant an essay or poem about Christ’s birth.

Some of the speeches, especially those for the little kids, were just a few words long. The older kids got short stories, poems, or scriptures to learn and recite.

We all knew we would be front and center in the spotlight for our starring performance.

The stage was set at the alter, which was always decorated by pointsettas, a Christmas tree, and a beautiful manger scene. Sometimes we recreated a living nativity scene, and everyone would vie for a chance to be one of those characters. The day of the program, our Sunday school teachers would sit in the first pew, ready to prompt us if we got a little stage fright and lost our place.

Included in the program were the soaring young voices of my junior choir, singing in glorious harmony the stories of the star in the East, the wise men, and the gifts of the Magi. I can still recall, after each of our little additions to the performance, the choir members rushing back to the choir room, where we would all be helped into our little white choir robes. Our junior choir would then quietly assemble at the alter where we would delight our audience with the traditional old favorites that told of the birth of our Savior.

We were all dressed in our finest for that pageant, and our new, or sometimes ‘gently worn’ finery would compliment our shiny, smiling faces.

One year in particular, I vividly recall the beautiful new dress my Grandma Stewart bought for me at Reed’s Department store in Latrobe, to wear especially for my Christmas pageant. It had a red velveteen bodice and a white chiffon full skirt with embroidered

poinsettias across the fabric. I remember the rustling sound my crinoline slips made as I twirled around in this most glorious creation and how glamorous I felt as I walked to the spotlight to recite my speech. And I recall my brand new black patent leather shoes tap-tap-tapping as I walked. I can still see all the ornery boys from my Sunday school class, so handsome in their little sports coats and neckties with their hair neatly combed, showing no trace of their usual

The Dress!

A frock fit to walk any red carpet.

mischief. I guess the solemn and majestic story we were telling helped us to be on our best behavior. The church was usually filled to capacity with all the doting parents and grandparents, some with their Brownie box cameras in hand. Afterwards we would gather in the church basement to bask in the accolades from our adoring fans, and, more importantly, to munch on cookies, candy canes and punch.

In Sunday school, as well as at West Derry School, we would exchange names in anticipation of the yearly Christmas party, which was held the day before Christmas break. We would each write our names on a piece of LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

paper, fold it up, and put it in a jar. One by one we would choose a name from that jar and we were responsible for getting that person a little Christmas gift. I can’t remember for sure, but I think the price limit was 50 cents. Even that small amount was a lot of money in those days. Each mom would send a snack along for us to share on the day of the party at school; some sent candy but my mom always made fresh cookies, and she allowed me to choose which of her delicious recipes I wanted to share with my classmates.

At some point, each year at Christmastime, some little unrelated incident or song or story comes up and I will be reminded, once again, of a long-ago West Derry school Christmas party.

How funny that after all these years its memory can still bring a sense of melancholy to my usual exuberant holiday joy.

It was 1956 and I was in the third grade. My mom took me to the Derry 5 & 10 to purchase my name-exchange gift, a task I took very seriously. I was determined to find the most spectacular 50-cent gift ever. I had a girl’s name, long forgotten now, but I decided she would probably like the same kind of things that I would like. After scouring the endless treasures offered at my most favorite store, I chose a heart-shaped necklace and a matching expandable bracelet. And to make this selection even more stunning, I chose the one with MY birthstone, amethyst, encrusted in what I knew must be pure gold. My mom knew how much I loved this jewelry set, so she had her work cut out for her in helping me to wrap it in festive paper, attach a nametag, and convincing me to give it away. She assured me I would be receiving a gift, too, and it would be something that I would like just as much. At school that day, I reluctantly placed my gift on our teacher, Mrs. Smail’s desk, with all the others. The party was in full swing and we were all enjoying the vast array of Christmas treats our moms had provided when Mrs. Smail announced the first name to receive their Christmas gift. As she read each name, that person would come forward and collect the gift that a classmate had chosen especially for them. I watched as that Every Story Begins At Home.

lucky girl whose name I had chosen unwrapped my spectacular selection, exclaimed over its beauty and thanked me profusely as she fastened the necklace around her neck and gently laced her hand through the bracelet. I watched her with a mix of pride and envy, and impatiently awaited the call of my own name. I just hoped the gift I would receive could ease the lingering envy I felt as I watched MY jewelry adorn someone else. The stack of gifts became smaller and smaller and as the last name was called, I listened in shocked silence to the happy chatter and holiday laughter of my friends, as they compared their newly acquired treasures, I realized there were no more gaily wrapped gifts on the teacher’s desk ….

I had waited in vain and my name was not going to be called. I walked up to Mrs. Smail’s desk and whispered in what I’m sure was a tearful and anxious voice, “You didn’t call my name.” She looked at me in surprise, and turned to the class and asked, “Did anyone forget to bring a gift?” The nonchalant answer came from the back of the room. “Yes, my mom forgot … sorry ...”

I can still hear those words hanging in the air like they were spoken yesterday, confirming my worst fears, and hurting like a slap in my face. I would not be receiving a gift. Mrs. Smail put her arm around me and said how sorry she was, and that she was sure Santa would bring me some lovely gifts.

Fifty cents. That was the meager price of my loss, yet this story can still bring stinging tears to my eyes. Some childhood hurts, no matter how insignificant they may seem when viewed as an adult, can never be undone. I told this sad tale to my husband, Doug, once. As the hot tears sprang to his eyes, he told me in no uncertain terms I was never to tell him that story again. He knew that all the pots of gold, the diamond tennis bracelets or emerald necklaces in the world would never make up for that long ago hurt and disappointment.

I guess we all have stuff that we carry with us – the not quite forgotten painful memories that linger side by side with our joys and happiness. I thank the good Lord that most of my memories are joyful. And I’m glad that Mrs. Smail was right about Santa. He, along with

his ‘helpers’ did indeed give me wonderful Christmases, for every year of my childhood and beyond.

The endless HAPPY holiday memories of my youth were always on full display in the Christmas pageantry at that little school in West Derry. One unhappy incident could never dull the stunning spectacle of the holiday extravaganza that I, along with all of the other students, had helped to create. To my young eyes, that display was every bit as impressive as the Hollywood designed set of the Perry Como Christmas show we always watched on television. I remember us creating what seemed like elaborate decorations for our classrooms. Our meticulously colored pictures of Santa and Rudolph were hung side by side with those of the Baby Jesus in the manger and the Three Wise Men. The green holly leaves with bright red berry cutouts were taped on the big windows of our classroom right next to the angels, and the star of Bethlehem shown down on Frosty the Snowman. Strings of our carefully woven chains of red and green construction paper were hung like garlands around the classroom, and our attempts at origami were rewarded by a snowstorm of our intricately cut flakes, hanging from the ceiling. If there had been any Jewish students in our school, there is no doubt in my mind that the Menorah would have been proudly displayed right next to the stockings, as they hung by the chimney with care. It was a delightful mish-mash of the secular and the sacred, with nary a complaint to be found.

Music class was always representative of the changing seasons, and at Christmastime, the selection was vast. “Here Comes Suzie Snowflake” would be followed by “Joy to the World, the Lord has Come,” and “Up On The Rooftop, Reindeer Pause” led into “Silent Night.” After all, Christmas was the birthday of Christ; it was the reason for all the celebrating. Every Derry High School alumnus knows about the Hallelujah Chorus at the Senior High School Choral Concert when all Derry graduates still make their way to the stage at the end of the program to sing continued on page 6

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along. They weren’t singing Hallelujah for sparkle season, they were singing to the ‘King of Kings, the Lord of Lords who shall reign forever and ever. ‘ Not much wiggle room for the secular in those lyrics.

The Christmas trees in the hallways at school were beautifully decorated and each had a manger scene lovingly placed beneath it. It was the same all over town. The angels, the wise men, Mary, Joseph and the Baby Jesus shared the stage with Santa and Rudolph and Frosty. We know there will always be sadness and strife and hurt feelings in the world. That is the nature of life. But the gentle yet infinite

meaning of Christmas has never contributed to those things. The Christmas story is one of joy and hope, the story of the greatest gift of all. Its simple message proclaims peace and love and good will.

I think we can all learn a lesson from Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang. They were very straightforward and unflinching in their production, “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Every year its popularity grows and grows.

Towards the end of the story, Charlie Brown looks at his sad little tree, hears the mocking laughter of his friends and wonders in despair about the true meaning of Christmas. His friend,

Linus, says he can tell him what it means. And, in silence, Linus walks to the center of the stage, stands under a single spotlight, and reminds us all just exactly what makes this the most wonderful time of the year: And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace and goodwill towards men.

On a final little PS, just from me to you: Happy Birthday, Jesus! And in the glorious mish-mash that I remember so fondly from all those years ago, I remind you of the words of the jolly old fat man himself, “Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!” ***** Ruthie loves to share memories with you.

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

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LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

What’s the big deal about lead in hunting ammunition and fishing tackle? If an animal is going to die anyway, it’s not going to get lead poisoning, right?

The issue of lead in hunting ammunition and fishing tackle isn’t so much about lead contaminating the spoils of hunters and fishermen but about lead accumulating in our ecosystems and poisoning other animals that ingest it. “Lead is an extremely toxic element that we’ve sensibly removed from water pipes, gasoline, paint and other sources dangerous to people,” reports the non-profit Center for Biological Diversity (CBD). “Yet toxic lead is still entering the food chain through widespread use of lead hunting ammunition and fishing tackle, poisoning wildlife and even threatening human health.”

The group reports that at least 75 wild bird species in the United States—including bald eagles, golden eagles, ravens and endangered California condors—are routinely poisoned by spent lead ammunition. Meanwhile, every year thousands of cranes, ducks, swans, loons, geese and other waterfowl ingest spent lead shot or lead fishing sinkers lost in lakes and rivers “often with deadly consequences.”

“Animals that scavenge on carcasses shot and contaminated with lead bullet fragments, or wading birds that ingest spent lead-shot pellets or lost fishing weights mistaking them for food or grit, can die a painful death from lead poisoning, while others suffer for years from its debilitating effects,” reports CBD. Across the U.S. some 3,000 tons of lead are shot into the environment by hunters every year. Another 80,000 tons are released at shooting ranges, and 4,000 tons in fishing lures and sinkers are lost in ponds and streams. CBD estimates that as many as 20 million birds and mammals in the U.S. die every year as a result.

Agency (EPA) denied the coalition’s request to take toxic lead out of hunting ammunition. In response, CBD and six other groups filed suit against EPA in June for refusing to address the problem.

Opponents of CBD (such as the National Rifle Association/ NRA) are on the offensive, supporting the Sportsmen’s Heritage Act of 2012 (HR 4089), a bill that aims to open up more federal land to hunting, limit the President’s ability to invoke the Antiquities Act to designate new protected lands, and prevent the EPA from regulating ammunition containing lead, among other provisions. The bill recently passed a floor vote in the House of Representatives, but political analysts doubt it will make it through the Senate.

CONTACTS: CBD’s “Get the Lead Out,” www.biologicaldiversity.org/ campaigns/get_the_lead_out/; Sportsmen’s Heritage Act of 2012 on Govtrack, www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/112/hr4089.

EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is a registered trademark of E - The Environmental Magazine (www.emagazine.com). Send questions to: earthtalk@emagazine.com.

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Of course, lead ammunition also poses health risks to people, especially those consuming hunted meat. “Lead bullets explode and fragment into minute particles in shot game and can spread throughout meat that humans eat,” says CBD. “Studies using radiographs show that numerous, imperceptible, dust-sized particles of lead can infect meat up to a foot and a half away from the bullet wound, causing a greater health risk to humans who consume lead-shot game than previously thought.”

CBD launched its Get the Lead Out campaign in March 2012 to raise awareness about the issue and help build support for a federally mandated transition to non-toxic bullets, shot and fishing gear. The coalition includes groups from 38 different states representing conservationists, birders, hunters, scientists, veterinarians, Native Americans and public employees. In April, the U.S. Environmental Protection Every Story Begins At Home.

According to the Center for Biological Diversity, lead is an extremely toxic element that is entering the food chain through widespread use of lead hunting ammunition and fishing tackle, poisoning wildlife and even threatening human health. (Credit: KevinChang, courtesy Flickr)

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 7

Love Actually... Is All Around To the typical college student the words ‘Thanksgiving’ and ‘Christmas’ immediately precede the word ‘break’. For us these holidays are spent working on final assignments, prepping for exams, taking extra classes, or spending exorbitant amounts of money on textbooks for the spring. Since I’ve started college, I haven’t had a single Thanksgiving break without a term paper or a Winter break without classes. The consequence of this was spending much less time with my family, catching up and making memories. This isn’t what the holiday season should be about.

For many, the holidays are spent juggling work, kids, families, cooking, travel, presents, wrapping, and spending– until they yearn for the stability of their daily routine. What this amounts to is kin to a celebrity squeezing in appearances with relatives, rather than spending meaningful time with any of them. Even as a child I felt the stress of having to balance visits to all of my relatives. First there was the ninehour ride from North Carolina to Pennsylvania. Then my time in PA was spent a day here, a few hours there, but not staying at one home a significant amount of time.

When relatives would ask after each other, I didn’t feel I could always answer that question: “Well I guess she is doing well. I mean I saw her and said ‘hello’ before I had to leave.” Once again, this isn’t what the holiday season should be about.

Reflecting upon my own memories of Thanksgiving and Christmas, immedi-ately I think of how I celebrated as a child. From the Macy’s parade I would do around the cul-de-sac every year to ‘Year Without a Santa Claus’ and singing my heart out to ‘We Need a Little Christmas’ my childhood holidays were filled with excitement. Of course, as a child presents were always wonderful, but memories of those gifts

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aren’t what I remember now. I recall watching the same Christmas movies with my mother and brother every year (always with ‘Holiday Inn’ at Thanksgiving to kick off the season), constructing my Thanksgiving day floats out of wagons, bikes, and stuffed animals, and the sing-alongs on the way to and from relative’s houses.

All of these activities were things I did with my family and friends. We spent time together doing things that were special to that time of year. We built traditions together. And overall there was that particular feeling of warmth – that feeling of Love. That’s what the holidays are really about, isn’t it? Love. We come together for holidays because we love each other. We feel a need to be close to one another, catch up, reminisce, and make memories. Although the season comes with its share of headaches and stress, which can be overwhelming, what is most important is the time you spend with family. Life sometimes gets in the way and sometimes we forget to pay attention to what is most important.

While we may not always have a lot of time to spend with those we love, make the most of the moments you have together and try not to get bogged down with the negative aspects of the season. You may resent the holiday traffic but when you arrive at your destination, and your grandmother reaches out and hugs you, the voices of your brothers and sisters in the other room call out, you remember why all the stress and the fuss was worth it. You are where you belong. Surrounded by the people you love.

Next time you are feeling the holiday blues, remember this quote from one of my favorite Christmas movie: “If you look for it, I’ve got a sneaking suspicion . . . love actually is all around.”

– Elizabeth Srsic

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Gifts That Give Back

Volunteers Needed for Overly’s Country Christmas Celebrate the season at Overly’s Country Christmas, an impressive holiday light display complete with a walk-through Christmas Village that is filled with an array of old-fashioned traditions and treats. Sing carols ‘round the bonfire, revel in the model train display, have your picture taken with Santa (in the days before Christmas) and shop for gifts in the C. Edgar & Sons General Store as you experience the beauty of this illuminated winter wonderland!

Overly’s Country Christmas is a nationally recognized holiday light display that has been featured on “Good Morning America” and other ABC, NBC and CBS affiliated television programs. In 1983, Good Housekeeping Magazine named Overly’s Country Christmas one of America’s Best Outdoor Light Displays.

If interested in volunteering, we are looking for Moms, Dads, Grandparents, parents with a young child, high school and college students needing to complete community service hours, retired professionals, those between jobs looking for experience, members of a service group or church group, etc. You can help create holiday memories and traditions for our Westmoreland County/Western Pennsylvania holiday event! Volunteer today by calling 724-423-1400 or email to overlyvolunteers@gmail.com If you are unable to volunteer, we sure hope you can stop by ... it really is something to see!

Every Story Begins At Home.

The annual IKEA Soft Toys for Education campaign is starting!

Running from November 4 through December 29, one Euro ($1.30) will be donated to UNICEF and Save the Children for every IKEA soft toy sold, to help children around the world gain access to a quality education. Adorable toys like Mr. Broccoli and Clown Dog (below), which range in price from 49 cents to $19.99, will delight and also be a great gift that gives back.

Since the start of the Soft Toys for Education program in 2003, IKEA has raised more than $61 million, helping over eight million children in close to 40 countries.

Star of Wonder, Star of Night, Star of royal beauty bright. Westward leading, still proceeding, guide us to thy perfect light... In the Bible, the star is a representation of the star that guided the three wise men to the manger in Bethlehem where baby Jesus lay. However, astronomers have concluded that no new star appeared at the time of His birth, nor was this a shooting star as the three kings followed their star for weeks. In fact, studies suggest that Jesus was born in the spring of 6 B.C. rather than 1 A.D. This star of Bethlehem may have actually been the group of three planets-Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn-also known as Pisces. The star is a symbol of high hopes and ideals (for Christians, it represents the ideals held by Jesus in the bible). That star sitting atop your tree is more than a decoration- it’s a guide and it serves to remind us of what the Christmas season is really all about.

– Kaytlen Powers Winter/Holiday 2012 - 9

Together We Are Stronger √ Cereal (high fiber, low sugar) √ Tuna, Canned Salmon

(packed in water) √ Fruit, Vegetable Juice (100%) √ Canned Beans (kidney, black, navy) √ Canned Vegetables √ Peanut Butter (15 or 18 oz) √ Canned Fruit in juice √ Paper Products √ Laundry Detergent √ Diapers (baby & adult) √ Cash Donations ($2/$5) at the registers Non-perishable items only!

Please no GLASS. Donated food and funds will benefit your local food bank.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN

POST

Over 37,000 children and their families throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania are in need of assistance from the Greater Pittsburgh and Westmoreland Community Food Bank. You can help feed a family in need by participating in the Fall FoodShare food drive held every year at your local Giant Eagle.

• Statewide, 19.6% of children under 17 years old, almost 1 in 5, live in poverty (US Census American Community Survey) • Half of all Food Stamp recipients nationwide are children.

• Children in food-insecure house-holds are 2x as likely to suffer poor health, and 2x as likely to need special education (Feeding America).

• More than 54,000 households in southwestern Pennsylvania live on incomes below $10,000 per year.

We all need help from time to time. Whether you’ve lost your job and can’t make ends meet or you simply need assistance reaching the top shelf, we all turn to our friends, family and neighbors in times of need. With 50 million people—or 1 in 6—struggling with hunger in our country, people in our communities need a little help putting food on the table.

Our nation was built on a sense of community—that together, we are stronger than we are as individuals. That is the spirit in which Feeding America and local food banks advocate for programs that help struggling families put food on the table. With our economy fighting to emerge from the greatest recession since the Great Depression, people in communities across our nation need help getting back on their feet.

Its simple – get involved today – and get your family and friends involved.

To find opportunities in your area, please contact your local food bank. In our area: WestmorelandFoodBank.org, 724-468-8660.

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

Cathi Gerhard - Editor • Gregory Susa - Publisher Jason Ament - Managing Editor & Advertising Sales Director Megan Fuller - Editorial Consultant Carol Gerhard - Copy Editor • Scott Sinemus - The Ligonier Chef Elizabeth Srsic - Art & Education • Ruthie Richardson - Memory Lane Mark Rullo - What’s Cooking in Fitness • Granny Earth - Healing With Weeds Brian Mishler - Home Study • Cindy Parker - Three Pennies Bruce & Ellen Henderson - Features & Photography • Kaytlen Powers - Intern Joe Jerich - Features & Photography • Eric Pensenstadler - Video

Subscriber Information

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

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

724-537-6845 • www.Laurel Mountain Post.com

10 - Winter/Holiday 2012

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

EDITORS’ CHOICE COMMUNITY AWARDS Local Favorites Chosen by the Staff of the Laurel Mountain Post

Best New Fashion Accessory Magnabilities Interchangeable magnetic disks for necklaces, bracelets and earrings, there are over a thousand different designs to choose from – or use your own photo to order a custom disk. This creative jewelry idea began as a small, at-home business by three financially-strapped friends in Sumner, Washington: “Blood, sweat, and enough tears to fill the world’s oceans later, Magnabilities has arrived. A sincere thanks goes out to all that have made this dream come true. Keep an eye on us, there are many more ideas to come.”

Promote small business to small business success and stop in at Chicora’s ( 313 Depot Street in Latrobe) to try out some combinations – we love them, especially at only $5 per disk!

Best Outdoor/Farm Fashion for Women Kerrits Performance Equestrian Apparel These are the best-made, most comfortable and incredibly stylish “barn clothes” I have ever worn or even seen!

Whether it’s hats, jackets, tops, coats or breeches, you’ll find everything you need from sizes small to 2X. Sadly, there is no Tall sizing, but inseams do increase proportionately from 30 to 33 inches. Warm in the winter, and moisture-wicking cool in the summer, Every Story Begins At Home.

they have become my go-to pieces for daily wear in both town and country.

A small company in Bingham, WA, they have strong environmental and ethical commitments: “We do not make disposable equestrian apparel, never have, never will.

From the beginning, we’ve had a standard. We won’t make anything that we might be embarrassed to wear next year. And the clothes that we do make? Well, they are meant to be ridden in hard and worn well for a good long time. We wake up every morning realizing we have the opportunity to make a difference.” (www.Kerrits.com) Shop this apparel line year-round at Equine Chic in Ligonier, on the Diamond at 100 E Main St, 724-238-7003, www.equinechic.com. They are having a seasonal trunk show/in-store event on November 15!

Best Local Honey Crimson Creek Apiaries We love their honey – and their slogan even more: Keeping Wild Girls in a Box! After discovering their products

this summer at the Ligonier Country Market, we are hooked! Here’s their adorable story: “The curve in the bottom of the hollow on Dick Station in Sewickley Twp.was once a bustling hub for the townsfolk. A grist mill used water from Little Crimson Creek to grind grain and a train station greeted travelers as they came and went. A dirt road carried horse and buggy riders past and a little Crimson Schoolhouse stood atop the knoll overlooking it all. The Schoolhouse still stands obscured by some trees, but is still fondly remembered as Schoolhouse #3 at Millville/Dick Station built in 1837 and now owned

by Norman and Linda Lachimia. This is where our story begins.....

Norman and I purchased •the one724-238-9273 • 412-951-5579 Fully room schoolhouse in 2009 and began Insured (PA046680) restoring the 175 year old building. For twenty-five years we admired the forsaken structure adjoining our property. With its stone foundation, the wooden schoolhouse was a dream,

calling a pair of Carpenters by trade.

The Crimson schoolhouse’s slate roof, slender cream windows,and it’s bell tower perched so alluringly atop the structure has seen the change of times.

We are restoring the schoolhouse to her original beauty,but not without a large obstacle along the way, as we approached the south side of the schoolhouse we encountered buzzing continued on page 12

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 11

and a few friendly fly-by’s all pointing to the Honeybees taking up residence in the walls.

Knowing the plight of the Honeybee and being avid gardeners, we wanted to place the bees in a hive box but had no idea where to begin. Finding a friendly local beekeeper that was kind enough to come out and place the honeybees in a brood box, we were able to create the hive we now fondly refer to as our “School girls,” for the Queen and all the worker bees are all females!!

And this was the start of Crimson Creek Apiaries.”

They carry beekeeping products, honey and beeswax candles. Their website will soon be available for online ordering at www.crimson creekapiaries.com. In the meantime, call Swarmin Normin at 724-289-7879 or send an email to Linda@crimson creekapiaries.com. To taste their honey, visit Palace Restaurant in Herminie, McNally’s in Rilton, Country Custard in Sutersville, or Gary’s Chuckwagon in West Newton.

– Cathi Gerhard & Greg Susa

Sherwood Circle in Youngwood, (724) 433-5315; greenpandas1985@com cast.net; http://johnsonhill.mygc.com.

Other GC candle consultants can be found at goldcanyon.com

Best Tea for a Cold Tadin Tea Chamomile with Anise

Best Cupcake Kimmy’s Cupcake Co. I know most trendy things take about a decade to reach our area. Cupcake craze being one of them. Kimmy’s Cupcake Co. is better than most. We’ve had the Georgetown Cupcakes and I still can’t understand why people are so enamored. Kim has attention to detail for decorating that is worthy of a reality show. And the cupcake itself is moist and delicious. Kimmy says: “I don’t know the meaning of box cake! Everything I produce is homemade with the freshest ingredients.”

She’s on Facebook and definitely worth liking, her creativity is always a pleasure to see. You can also contact her at 412-260-3716 or via email: kmenartjohnson@gmail.com

With the cold and flu season coming on we like to keep a supply and think it really does help with stuffy noses and coughs. Tadin Teas can be purchased online at tadincorp.com, walgreens.com and amazon.com.

Best Scented Candle Gold Canyon

Best Lip Balm EOS

Changing the fragrance in our house (in Arizona) is the only way to distinguish the seasons, so I stock up on Gold Canyon Candles, we have “pumpkin pie” burning right now with “autumn walk” on deck and “cozy christmas” in the wings. In western PA, contact Bryan & Kelly Johnson-Hill at B&K’s Gold Canyon Candles n More: 320

This lip balm comes in an egg, and my daughters love it for its fight against dry lips. Just a note: keep it on a high shelf or a zipped bag because the dogs seem to love it as well! We get ours at our local Target, but it is also available at http:// evolutionofsmooth.com – Megan Fuller

Best Braised Pork Shank The Kitchen on Main Truly one of the most consistent and tasty shanks I’ve had the pleasure of in ages! It’s not on many menus, which makes little sense really, it’s easily cooked, holds magnificently for service,

Window Cleaning Gutter Cleaning Pressure Washing Office 724.694.0368 Chad - Owner 724.875.0629

I CAN SEE FABULOUS!

C-FAB Services

IWCA Safety Certified • Fully Insured

12 - Winter/Holiday 2012

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

makes a myriad of phenomenal “planned-overs” and is ridiculously affordable. Located at 136 E. Main Street in Ligonier. 724-238-4149. www.thekitchenonmain.com Best Soup Base Minor’s at Penzey’s Penzey’s has a line of bases that are truly home made in flavor. Minor’s is what most restaurants use. It does make a good base when used alone. I prefer using just a bit to enhance homemade stock. I use it instead of adding salt to my stock. Both need to be refrigerated.

your favorite cocktails, with specialty drinks designed to compliment every holiday. I recently helped the bartender perfect November’s feature martini: pumpkin pie! All this and a staff like Cheers, where everybody knows your name. Stop by for a little break from all the hustle and bustle, maybe we will see you there!

– Ruthie & Doug Richardson

– The Ligonier Chef Best Home Enthusiast Shop Vite E Vino Vite E Vino First avenue in Derry where the old State Store was. If you are looking for an unusual gift, they have a large array of wine and beer making supplies, and lots of lovely little gift items, too, like goat milk soaps and lotions, candles, old fashioned toys and lovely framed photographs.

124 East First Ave in Derry. www.viteevino.com 724-309-9601 Best Watering Hole Chef Dato’s And everyone knows that Chef Dato’s Table in West Derry has wonderful food and desserts, but they also have a lovely bar with seasonal beers, both imports and local; a terrific wine list, that includes their own, houseinfused white and red sangria; and Every Story Begins At Home.

Oh Christmas Tree, oh Christmas Tree, how richly God has decked thee!

Today, an evergreen decked out with colorful ornaments and twinkling lights says “Christmas” to many people. But decorated trees had meaning long before Christmas came about!

Druids, who worshipped nature some several thousands years ago, would decorate oak trees during winter solstice; the gilded apples were a sign of gratitude to the god Odin for bestowing fruits, and the candles honored the sun god Balder.

Originally, trees were adorned with fruits, gilded nuts, gingerbread, paper roses, baby Jesus with angel wings, etc. Eventually, glass balls in all different colors replaced the fruits, and strings of popcorn and cranberries, paper chains and paper stars, became the garland of American Christmas trees. On early Christmas trees, fairies(the good spirits) took the place of angels! Ornaments vary depending on the country; In Poland there are always angels and peacocks, the Swedes hang brightly colored wooden and straw ornaments, In Denmark they sometimes have strings of tiny Danish flags adorning the Christmas tree. In Japan they often have trees lit with paper lanterns, and Czechoslovakians ornament are made out of painted eggshells. One of the most interesting symbolic ornaments can be found on a Ukrainian Christmas tree: a spider web for good luck.

Start a new tradition! The first actual record of the Christmas tree as we have come to known it is in a German book dating back to 1604. A good way to keep this fact alive would be in the form of a particular ornament known as the “Christmas Pickle,” or die Weihnachtsgurke. Though there is a question as to whether or not this is a true German custom, it is a symbol nonetheless. Whoever finds the Christmas pickle gets a special treat or extra present. In a less materialistic sense, the pickle represents good fortune.

– Kaytlen Powers

***** The above recommendations are honest kudos from the staff of the Laurel Mountain Post. With so much negative press in the world, we think it is important to put our compliments in writing!

The Laurel Mountain Post maintains high standards of editorial credibility with our endorsements. We do not trade product endorsements for paid advertisements or free samples. In many cases, our ad sales and articles result from us contacting businesses we really like – and telling them so! These are simply our opinions, however, and we can hold no responsibility for your personal experiences with these products or services.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 13

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Bringing the olde general store to your door – with a $75 minimum order!

History and Heroines of Western Pennsylvania Engaging novels set in the true historical settings of our life and times

by Judith Redline Coopey

Now Available at Amazon.com and signed copies at Second Chapter Books in Ligonier, PA

Makes a ggreat reat Christmas gift!

Preventing and alleviating human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.

www.JudithRedlineCoopey.com 14 - Winter/Holiday 2012

Your local Red Cross in Westmoreland County is here to help.

For more information, visit WestRed.org or call 724-834-6510.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

A Visual History of the

Bedford Springs Hotel The newest addition to Arcadia Publishing’s popular Images of America series is The Bedford Springs Hotel from local author Alison Reed Ross. The book boasts more than 200 vintage images and memories of days gone by.

The Bedford Springs Hotel, located in a valley in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains, has a rich and fascinating history spanning over 200 years. Established in the 1790s by Dr. John Anderson, who gained his knowledge of the therapeutic mineral springs from local Native Americans, the spa resort drew visitors to the almost magical curative waters in search of renewed health and vitality.

Bedford Springs grew to be a popular and fashionable summer resort destination throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, hosting industrialists and socialites and even serving as the summer White House. After housing a US Navy training school and Japanese diplomat detainees during World War II , the Bedford Springs Hotel attracted resort goers until the late 1980s, when it closed its doors.

The expansive property sat silently, but elegantly, for two decades before its 2007 rebirth as the luxurious Omni Bedford Springs Resort.

Highlights of The Bedford Springs Hotel: • • • • •

Developing the spa Taking the waters Enjoying the social scene Golfing the links Meeting the demands of modern times

Author Alison Reed Ross, an architectural historian living and working in central Pennsylvania, studied historic preservation at the University of Pennsylvania. She selected most of these photographs from the extensive collection of the Bedford Springs Historical Society, which was established by William L. Defibaugh, P.E. Available at area bookstores, independent retailers, and online retailers, or through Arcadia Publishing at www.arcadiapublishing.com or (888)-313-2665.

Arcadia Publishing is the leading publisher of local and regional history in the United States. Our mission is to make history accessible and meaningful through the publication of books on the heritage of America’s people and places.

Have we done a book on your town? Visit www.arcadiapublishing.com.

National Geographic has just confirmed what many in Western Pennsylvania already knew – it is one of the most beautiful places in the world to visit in the fall.

The travel editors of National Geographic have listed the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) as one of the top ten in their “Best Fall Trips 2012”—a timely honor because the ground-breaking for the last section of the trail was held last Friday in Pittsburgh.

Once work is finished, this piece of the trail will complete the GAP. The GAP meets the existing C&O Towpath in Cumberland, MD and together, the GAP and C&O Towpath trails link Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C. It is estimated this vital piece of the trail will be completed by April 15, 2013.

The GAP itself is a 141-mile rail trail from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, and traverses through miles of beautiful scenery including four HeritagePA sites including Altoona and the Allegheny Ridge Heritage Area, plus the Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor, National Road Heritage Corridor, and Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area.

As the National Geographic article stated, visitors can spend a day, weekend or week enjoying the trail and stopping at the interesting, small towns along the way.

Donna Holdorf, executive director for the National Road Heritage Corridor, agreed.

“There is nothing more amazing than the fall colors of the Laurel Highlands and Pittsburgh’s Countryside.

Pedaling the GAP at this time of year will immerse riders in Mother Nature’s gift to our senses,” she said.

“But visitors shouldn’t limit themselves to the trail: make a stop in anyone of the trail towns and villages along the way and explore the PA Heritage Area’s historic and cultural sites, and enjoy our local eateries,” said Holdorf.

The HeritagePA regions identify industrial, cultural and natural resources of a particular locality and work with other entities to bring visitors and business to that area to learn about and enjoy these resources.

Congratulations to the Great Allegheny Passage!

Call for Local and Creative Magazine Submissions The Laurel Mountain Post is looking for creative writing and article proposals. All local writers are invited to submit original (never before published) works for consideration. Prose and poetry should not exceed 2500 words; longer stories will be serialized if selected for publication. Suggestions for articles should include the who-what-where, and especially WHY it would interest our readers. No sales copy will be accepted – we are looking for legitimate, local feature topics.

Submissions will be read by a multidisciplinary team of editors, so please be patient regarding our decision once you receive a cofirmation receipt. It takes a while for our editorial board members to read through your manuscripts and make their recommendations. We are truly looking forward to hearing new ideas and reading your work!

Complete writing and submission guidelines are available on our website: www.LaurelMountainPost.com Every Story Begins At Home.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 15

WHAT’S COOKING IN FITNESS

by Mark Rullo (MS, CSCS, MES) and Julie Martson

Pie, Push-Ups, and Party Pounds: How to Celebrate the Holidays without the Weight Gain

If you’ve been on the quest to lose or maintain your weight, you know that with all of the holidays at the end of the year, it can feel like an uphill battle.

Now that Halloween is over – though the candy may still linger – you’ve got Thanksgiving, Christmas-HanukkahKwanzaa (Christmahanakwanzika anyone?), and New Year’s to look forward to! Let’s be honest though, if you’re trying to lose weight, these holidays can feel more like walking through a minefield rather than a celebration.

Here’s some food for thought (pun intended): Stop trying to be perfect!

The holidays are a time for celebration, and we humans enjoy food as a centerpiece of our celebrations. There is nothing wrong with that, so instead of agonizing over every Christmas cookie that passes your lips, just focus on maintaining your weight where it is.

That’s right, I said maintain. Take a break from the year-round Battle of the Bulge(s) and allow yourself to enjoy a little holiday cheer. There are only nine weeks between Halloween and New Year’s. All of the holiday hustle and bustle can leave us with less time to invest in monitoring what and how much we eat, so these next few weeks are a great time to switch your focus to weight maintenance.

So how can we still enjoy the holiday celebrations without tipping the scale in the wrong direction? Here are some ideas that just might keep you from ditching the dress pants for elastic waistbands: • Know the “caloric cost” of food.

One pound of fat is equivalent to 3500 calories, so if you’re taking in extra 16 - Winter/Holiday 2012

calories every day (even small amounts) you will see weight gain. A sugar cookie could be in the neighborhood of 192 calories, and a slice of pumpkin pie can easily be over 300! Know those costs before you indulge.

• Go ahead, have a candy cane!

Research shows that peppermint satisfies the sugar cravings often experienced following a meal. Added bonus: the menthol in peppermint soothes your digestive track. The little canes are only 11 calories while the 6inch canes are 55 calories.

• Find some healthy recipes that won’t sacrifice taste.

For example, there are some pretty incredible stuffing recipes online that are lower in calories and higher in fiber than boxed stuffing. I understand some relatives won’t go near it if you say “it’s healthy,” so make sure they try it before telling them it’s better for them! Also

from another perspective, who says you have to tell them in the first place?

• Eat ahead of time.

Before you go to the holiday office party, eat a small meal to keep you from nibbling on too many of the unhealthy treats. A handful of baby carrots or an actual meal – one with a good balance of protein, fibrous carbohydrates, and healthy fats – could keep you from munching on everything on the buffet table.

• Use a smaller plate.

If you hold a plate in your hand that’s

the size of a Humvee’s hubcap, you’re going to fill it up with way too much food. Let’s face it: Once it’s on your plate, you want to eat it (especially if it’s something yummy, like Grandma’s Christmas cookies). We are visual creatures! A smaller plate will appear full of food without completely

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

compromising all the progress you’ve been making on your weight loss goals.

out of it by ranking the dishes based on both taste and nutrition facts!

• Don’t bother buying Halloween candy - even once it’s on sale.

You’re going to get plenty of it at work or from your kids, so there’s really no reason to buy it when everyone else is trying to get rid of theirs. Taking the giveaway candy means you might save yourself some calories and some cash!

• Run a Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving.

You can torch a few hundred calories by running a charity race – then you can get your very own slice of Grandma’s pie! Thanksgiving is typically a day of eating and napping so this is one option for some activity on a typical non-active day.

• Limit yourself to 1 drink.

Does Aunt Elsie make good eggnog?

Does Cousin Ed’s homemade wine bring you some holiday cheer? Great, feel free to have a glass and be social, but stick to just one. Alcohol is full of empty calories. If you would indulge in more than one, then space each drink with at least one or two glasses of water.

• Brush your teeth or chew gum.

It could keep you from eating right when you get to the party or keep you from eating once you’ve finished your meal. Plus your friends and family will appreciate the fresh breath!

• Fill up on veggies.

Vegetable platters are my favorite part of the holidays (or it might be my mom’s cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning…but I do like veggies too!).

The veggie tray is a great place to get fiber, nutrients, and a crispy crunch without getting slammed with hundreds of calories. And just so we’re clear, ranch dressing is not a vegetable or a food group. Sorry to disappoint!

• Split desserts with a friend/ date/spouse/child/parent.

Grandma’s pumpkin pie is awesome, but it could take you at least half an hour of jogging to burn off one slice!

Share it with a loved one and spend a little less time working it off later.

• Have a “Holiday Dance Party.”

Or make it a ski trip, bike ride (if you’re not in a snowy place), hike, or other form of group activity. The point is find ways to get active!

• Only visit the dessert table once… and don’t forget about the tip above to choose small plates!

• Host your own “Healthy Holiday Party.”

Encourage your friends and family to bring healthier dishes. Make a contest Every Story Begins At Home.

yourself this holiday season, I would like to give you one more. If you eat too much, forgive yourself and move on, and make sure your next choice is one that moves you closer to your goals. Stressing over your mistakes will only make it worse.

Allow yourself the chance to learn from your mistakes and start to make new habits.

Think ahead - by holding that holiday weight gain at bay, you’ll be setting yourself up for success in the New Year. Stay tuned for more of What’s Cooking in Fitness by the weight loss experts at My Fitness Kitchen.

• Make your own food to take.

You know what you’re putting in it, so you have an idea of how much it is going to cost you calorie-wise.

So even if the holidays turn into a time of weight maintenance rather than weight loss, you’re doing well! Here at My Fitness Kitchen®, we have a contest called “Holiday Hold ‘Em.” The goal is to maintain your current body fat percentage through New Year’s.

Each participant is entered into a pool, and as long as the body fat percentage does not change between the two check-in dates they are eligible to win the entire pool! The Holiday Hold ‘Em is open to anyone interested, whether or not they are a member of My Fitness Kitchen®.

No matter how few or how many of these tips you decide to try out for

About My Fitness Kitchen® Located in Latrobe 30 plaza, My Fitness Kitchen® is truly Where Fitness & Nutrition Come Together. From the moment you enter My Fitness Kitchen® regardless of your age, fitness level or experience, it’s all about “You”.

The supportive staff, welcoming atmosphere, and friendly members combine to create the most unique and comfortable environment for your fitness and weight management success.

Whether it is Fitness, Nutrition or both, you can be confident My Fitness Kitchen® is the solution to a healthier you.

About the author:Julie Marston Julie Marston is an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and group fitness instructor at My Fitness Kitchen with a passion for overall wellness and health with a degree in exercise science and health. Her specialty is weight loss, and she has worked with clients of all ages.

Pumpkin pie is a staple of any Thanksgiving meal.

But did you know that the only pies the Pilgrims knew were meat pies? They might not have had the flour and eggs to make pie crust at all. It’s not even certain that the Pilgrims ate any pumpkin at their first Thanksgiving with the Wampanoag tribe in 1621! If so, they were roasted on coals and served stewed.

Pumpkin pies became a Thanksgiving dinner staple later in 17th century America, possibly as early as the second celebration of Thanksgiving in 1623, but most likely in 1670.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 17

“Worn But Not Worn Out” Shoe Collection Westmoreland County Courthouse, November 15: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Celebrate America Recycles Day by recycling your “worn but not worn out” shoes on Thursday, November 15, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Westmoreland County Courthouse. Join Westmoreland Cleanways and Westmoreland County in keeping thousands of pairs of good, usable shoes out of the landfill and getting them to people in need across the globe.

Westmoreland Cleanways is kicking off an exciting new collaboration with ShoeBox Recycling for this year’s American Recycles Day on November 15. Visitors to Greensburg and employees of all downtown businesses are encouraged to bring gently used, paired, mens, womens and kids shoes to the Westmoreland County Courthouse with the hope that the message, ‘worn is not worn out’ will resonate throughout the county. Drop them off at Westmoreland Cleanways’display at the Courthouse from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on November 15, and feel good about giving them a second useful life.

Collection boxes will be set up at both entrances to the Westmoreland County Courthouse on November 15, one at theMain Street entrance and one at the Pennsylvania Avenue entrance.

Commissioners Charles Anderson, Tyler Courtney, and Ted Kopas enthusiastically endorsed the America Recycles Day “Worn But Not Worn Out” shoe collection at the Courthouse, and paved the way to make it happen.

“We are thrilled that, with the support of our Commissioners, we can take advantage of America Recycles Day to launch a transformative program like ShoeBox Recycling that encourages our community 18 - Winter/Holiday 2012

members to easily choose the path of sustainability and find new and convenient ways to green our county,” said Westmoreland Cleanways Executive Director Ellen Keefe. “Everyone has extra shoes in their closet, and now we have an opportunity to make a great choice to put those shoes to reuse.”

Gently worn shoes turned in at the collection will be packed up and shipped to where they are needed most . . . countries such as Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guatemala, Kenya and Haiti. Westmoreland County will benefit by keeping thousands of pounds of shoes out of our county landfills, reserving space for the real trash.Westmoreland Cleanways will benefit because rebates earned from ShoeBox Recycling will be used to sustain its free environmental educational programs.

All “worn but not worn out,” still wearable shoes will be accepted (no holes in the soles, or shoes in need of repair). If they’re disgusting to you, they’ll be disgusting to someone else. Go through your closets to find pairs of men’s, women’s and kids’ shoes, in all shapes, sizes, and colors: athletic shoes, cleats, work boots, dress shoes, sandals, flats and heels. The only shoes we can’t use are singles, ski boots, heavy winter boots, roller- or ice skates.

“Shoe recycling needs to become as familiar to us all and as easy to perform as bottle, can, and paper recycling,” said Lisa Pomerantz, Queen of Sole at ShoeBox Recycling (pictured at left). “It’s great to work with Westmoreland Cleanways, true leaders in sustainability, who see the vision we have of shifting the way people think about their shoes.”

Westmoreland Cleanways notes too, that the “Worn But Not Worn Out” shoe collection is an on-going program. While the official kick-off will be at the Courthouse on November 15, permanent drop-off locations are also located in Founders Hall on the campus of Westmoreland County Community College in Youngwood; Chambers Hall on the campus of the University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg; and Westmoreland Cleanways’ office at 226 Donohoe Road in Greensburg.

For complete details of the “Worn But Not Worn Out” shoe recycling program, visit www.westmoreland cleanways.org, or call 724-836-4129.

Mission: We take all types of wearable pairs of mens, women’s and kids shoes. The only shoes we do not take are ski boots, heavy winter boots, roller skates/blades and ice skates. We take shoes in all shapes, sizes and colors.

Company Overview: We are ShoeBox Recycling and our mission is to recycle as many pairs of shoes as possible so that your old shoes can be given a new life.

Recycle your shoes, find your SoleMate™ Description: As a for-profit recycler, we know that we can only do good if we do well. Every shoe we collect will be distributed for reuse at various local market places around the world. When you place a note in your shoes and tell the next owner what is special about them, you can trace the path they take and ultimately find your ‘Sole Mate’.

Who knows what experience awaits you. Let’s all recycle our shoes and make the world smaller, greener and friendlier.

ABOUT WESTMORELAND CLEANWAYS Westmoreland Cleanways is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to protect, restore, and maintain the environmental qualities of Westmoreland County for all who live, work, and visit herein. Westmoreland Cleanways addresses the proper disposal of solid waste through recycling, special collections, the cleanup of illegal dumpsites and littered areas, and public education. For additional information about Westmoreland Cleanways, call 724-836-4129.

ABOUT SHOEBOX RECYCLING ShoeBox Recycling is proud to be a for-profit recycler of shoes. ShoeBox Recycling was founded in 2011 with a mission to recycle as many pairs of shoes as possible. With over 300 million pairs of shoes hitting landfills each year, ShoeBox Recycling is looking to change the way people think about their shoes and the need for reuse around the globe. ShoeBox Recycling is headquartered in Fairless Hills, PA. For more information, call 888-482-5754, send email to: info@shoeboxrecycling.com, or find them on Facebook.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Fender Skirts: A Blast from the Past

by Nancy A. Clark

An anonymous writer “of a certain age” recently lamented the disappearance of treasures near and dear to his heart – objects like spinner hubcaps, Continental kits, running boards and fender skirts.

His lamentation also included the obsolescence of particular components of the King’s English, claiming the trail to social extinction is littered with lyrical literary jewels like brassiere, percolator, Simonize®and groovy.

Going, going, gone are phrases like a blast from the past, in the family way, double-dare-ya and don’t you know?

The author then invited his readers to harvest recollections of physical and literary treasures from human relics of a certain age – “if you know any relics,” he adds. Know any? Honey, I IS ONE, and I have a list of literary jewels I’d like to rescue from obscurity, starting with linoleum and aluminum - two tongue ticklers that melt in my mouth like marshmallows in the microwave.

Sales Associates (store clerks in my day) respond with vacant eye and furrowed brow when I ask to see their linoleum (or is it aluminum?) floor samples. Today the product of choice is vinyl. Durable? Yes. Lyrical? No. I also transpose “restaurant” and “restroom,” but that’s another story.)

Girdle. Say it: G-i-r-r-r-d-l-e. Now, say SPANX. No music, there!

Big box stores don’t carry spigots, don’t you know? They only stock faucets.

I’d like to resurrect car model names like Pinto and Sunbird and Chief.

Where’s the lyricism in X4R, ZM1 and QT2?

And whatever happened to the dash board? Today’s vehicles present with cock-pit-like command centers that do everything but cook dinner and fold laundry! Ms. GPS can recalculate Every Story Begins At Home.

‘til the cows come home; but an unfolded map, best studied in the shade of an apple tree along a country road, reviews where I’ve been and previews where I’m going.

Many once-common words have new meanings, and some modern jargon get relics like me into trouble.

I’ve learned it’s not kool to say “hijack” in an airport or “postal” at the stamp counter. “Awesome” will do for groovy, and “rad” will pass for super-duper, but I would love a lot less “like” filling the air space. It like drives me like nuts to like engage in conversation where like every other word is like connected like to every other like word. OMG! There are phrases I’d like to revive, too, notably the positive reference to one happy camper. Those three words bypass a lot of psycho-babble and go directly to the core of confident in my being, right with God, and socially stable. For this reason, alone, I’d vote that KISS (keep it simple, stupid) classes be made mandatory in all halls of education.

The-Land-of-the-Lost-but-NotForgotten has become the repository for the neighborhood apothecary where mysterious medicinal powders were compounded in a marble pestle and mortar and then given to the customer in a paper envelope…and where inventory consisted of only medical equip-

ment, first-aid products and personal hygiene supplies. One couldn’t buy car polish, cornflakes, dish soap or inflatable lawn ornaments in the local drugstore anymore than one could purchase a can of Spam at the tire store.

I’d like to resurrect the malt shop, where a soda jerk scooped real ice cream from a freezer chest and blended it with whole milk from the refrigerator while I watched. I’m not a total skeptic, but one wonders what ingredients constitute a shake these days.

With due reverence, I surrender the aforementioned physical and literary artifacts to history. May they rest in peace.

A few ancient objects have survived evolution and now travel under an assumed name. When I offered to buy our twelve-year-old Angela a book bag for school, she gave me “The Look” that questions a grandmother’s mental acuity. Today, the thingamabob into which a student dumps all his earthly possessions has a new identity. “It’s called a back pack, Granma,” she informed me, rolling her pre-relic eyes in deference to my obvious antiquity.

As for other products that once filled showcases and storefront windows, they have either disappeared in the galaxy’s Black Hole or are “available only online.” We computer illiterate dinosaurs have a better chance of retrieving our favorite Ice Age relics by fishing in that Black Hole.

Well, enough of this reverie. Please excuse my dust as I don my brassiere, rev up our groovy DOB (dependable old Buick) and hit the local One-Stop Shop for a can of Simonize®car wax. Gotta keep my fender skirts polished, don’t you know?

Nancy Clark and husband, Tom, rejoice in 50 years of marriage, three children and three grandchildren. She dabbles in freelance and memoir writing when she isn’t baking, knitting, reading or building a jigsaw puzzle.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 19

Don’t Let Stress Mess with Your Holidays

by Hayley Chemski, MSN, CRNA and Certified Fitness Trainer

The holidays are a season of joy, a time to reconnect with loved ones, and an opportunity to reflect on shiny new things and old memories. Yet, in our attempt to perfect holiday traditions and revel in holiday magic, we can lose ourselves in a whirlwind of last minute gift wrapping, frantic grocery shopping, and baking disasters that end in plumes of powdered sugar. Perhaps our inability to prepare for relaxing moments with those we love, or our inability to release stress, may contribute to holiday mess.

Any situation that induces worry or anxiety is essentially ‘stressful.’ Clenched jaws, racing heart rates, flushed faces, pins and needles in our hands, and tension headaches are a few physical signs that we have relented our control, and succumbed to stress. As we allow a ‘loss of control’ to persist, we lose ourselves in anger, frustration, and worry. So as we move into the holiday season, let’s investigate a few de-stressing suggestions to promote healthy memories this year.

As a Nurse Anesthetist and Fitness Trainer, I find that those who fail to plan are planning to fail.

In other words, when my patients and/or clients do not engage in preventative, planned care and do not develop an exercise and workout plan, respectively, they are essentially planning to fail. The same concept applies to much of our manageable stress loads, especially during the holidays.

Decreasing stress by eliminating selfimposed standards, by planning meals and activities, and by utilizing several de-stressing techniques are excellent ways to prepare for tinsel, twinkle lights, and houses filled with relatives.

Holiday traditions impart a sense of comfort to many; traditions offer solace and warm fuzzies. We pressure ourselves to make our houses sparkling 20 - Winter/Holiday 2012

clean, to make certain meals ‘just right’ and jingles perfect to pitch. In doing so, we lose the importance of holiday tradition and focus more on somewhat uncontrollable outcomes. A dish may be ruined by a broken stove burner and a party ruined by a unruly guest. Yet, if we focus on the effort and sentiment of upholding family traditions, we may be

parties, exuberant family gettogethers, grocery lists for tiny items that compile annual meals, tired children crying, begrudging looks from estranged family members . . . and a partridge in a pear tree. Are you able to predict the likely culprits of your mess of stress? Will an argument likely erupt if you bring up monies owed between family members or lifelong relationship issues at Christmas Eve dinner? Don’t! Will your brain explode if you can’t manage to iron your family’s church clothing in one day? Plan ahead! Can you write lists now for each day of your holiday to-dos and make a schedule that is reasonable in order to have moments to cherish later?

Finally, when all else fails and your boiling point has been met, try one of the following: 1. Take a long, deep breath.

Focusing on your breath will help you to engage your parasympathetic nervous system (the bodily system associated with relaxation). As you feel your shoulders rise into your ears and your fists clench, relax your muscles and take a nice, long breath.

able to lessen the stress of perfection and mastery. I suggest that we make a manageable list of the traditions we find imperative to a memorable holiday, and release the standard of sending a Christmas card to every acquaintance since birth.

Planning ahead by utilizing a smart-phone app or pen and paper lists can prepare you now for the demands of a hectic holiday schedule. Work

2. Close your eyes and visualize a pleasant place. Self imagery has been illustrated in clinical trails to bring about relaxation. Ultimately, positive thoughts warrant positive results. Soothe your anxiety or frustration by chanting one word in a quiet mind. A mantra of Yoga students, chanting can drop your blood pressure, your heart rate, and slow your mind.

3. Reason through an issue by focusing on the importance of self-control. Does your mother-in-law raise your blood pressure? Sure...but you are not in LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

control of her, just of yourself. Can a sick child throw a wrench in holiday responsibilities? Sure, but it’s more time to cuddle around a lit Christmas tree. Does a burnt turkey ruin a traditional dinner? Sure, but offers an opportunity for a dinner out without dirty dishes. Will a cancelled flight keep you from seeing relatives? Sure, stay an extra day if you can or communicate a change in plans and move forward with a positive outlook. Don’t try to control the uncontrollable.

Release what you cannot control this holiday, and find yourself less stressed.

Moreover, when speaking of selfcontrol, remember to prioritize holiday purchases. In the tide of pressure to present our entire circle of friends and family with gifts, we lose sight of our bank statement until the dark days of January! Offer homemade gifts, opt to spend time together versus gifting, send e-cards, or set a budget before shopping sprees to keep the unwanted worry of

an astounding credit card statement off of your radar.

4. Break from your to-do list and sit for a moment while listening to music.

Studies have shown a link between music and a peaceful spirit. Besides, traditional holiday music may offer depth to a party’s athosphere while relaxing your mind.

5. Exercise. The holidays are a time ridden with guilty pleasures. Enjoy!

Yet, don’t lose sight of your healthy habits. Exercise illicits an endorphin release and manages stress by clearing your spirit and body of toxins. Utilize the body’s responses thru exercise to combat stressful times. As mentioned,

plan your workouts and plan healthy snacks to keep yourself grounded and your sugar stable.

6. Volunteer. Helping others is regularly suggested as a means to combat “the blues.” When helping others, you have less time to focus on your own troubles and more time to become aware of life’s treasures and your own good fortune.

The holidays are our time to relish in our lives, our families and friends, and the joy of simple pleasures. You can make it the most wonderful time of year by using some of the above tips and techniques.

Enjoy a holiday full of memories and absent of messy stressors.

********** Hayley owns and operates Building Bodeez Fitness Center in Derry, PA, with her husband, Shawn Horwat. She is also a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at St. Margaret’s Hospital in Fox Chapel, PA. An avid group exercise instructor and fitness trainer, she assists clients to manage stress regularly. Visit Building Bodeez at www.buildingbodeez.net for a FREE 7-day trial this holiday season or contact Hayley directly at buildingbodeez@gmail.com. “HAPPY HOLIDAYS!”

LIGONIER VALLEY RAIL ROAD MUSEUM At the restored Darlington Station

Sharing the 75-year history of railroading in Ligonier Valley

Wednesday thru Saturday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Compass Inn M useum Museum Nov. 3-1 8: H arv est Candlelight T ours 3-18: Harv arvest Tours Nov. 223-D 3-D ec. 9: Christmas Candlelight T ours 3-Dec. Tours Dec. 1-9: F estiv al Lights own H all Festiv estival Lights,, Ligonier T To Hall

3032 Idlewild Hill, Ligonier, PA www.lvrra.org 724-238-7819 ─ lvrra@verizon.net Every Story Begins At Home.

1382 Route 30, Laughlintown, 3 miles east of Ligonier 724-238-4983 • www.compassinn.com Events sponsored by Ligonier Valley Historical Society

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 21

DOWN ON THE FARM

by Cathi Gerhard & Gregory Susa

This Old Farmhouse Since moving back to the Fairview Farm in November 2010, my husband and I have become fairly obsessed with homesteading. I have a hard time using such vernacular since I grew up here, and my father began this very column to describe the daily lives of family farming. This way of life seems natural to me. During the 20 years I lived away from home and “in town,” I realized how much I was missing, and have since become desperate to retain or relearn that knowledge from my family: farming/gardening, canning/preserving, carpentry/construction/repair, cooking/baking, sewing and other needle crafts, etc.

many articles about gardening and preserving food. Now that winter is drawing near, our attention is turning back inside – to our farmhouse, built circa 1887.

My father and grandfather did a lot of restoration, beginning in 1963. Pap George built my Nanny an entirely new kitchen out of plywood; the bathroom was re-done a few times – first to actually put one in between two bedrooms, then it was outfitted in 1950s pink and black tile. We lived with that bathroom until sometime in the late 1970s when my parents did some upgrades. In 1980, new double-paned windows replaced the old crank-out models.

Homesteading has become quite popular lately, for many reasons – the least of which is the poor economy. It seems that my middle-aged generation either forgot most of what they experienced as children, or never had the opportunity to see how things were done “in the olden days.” Whether we are returning to our roots or interested in learning important skills from the past, I’m thrilled that resources for rediscovery are becoming so readily available.

Much of what my husband and I put together for this column now is geared toward people just like us, and the generation bringing up the rear. In the last few issues, there have been

Around 1983, my father covered our bedroom walls made of horsehair plaster with a bulletin board product so that our teenage selves could hang as many posters as we wanted and not worry about holes (he was such a thoughtful dad). At the same time, my mother and her father remodeled our living room with pine board paneling stained a natural color, with custom built-in display and storage cabinets.

Shortly after, the crumbling front porch and roof was totally replaced.

The early 1990s saw another round of updates. My parents converted our 3-car garage into a retirement apartment for themselves, my sister and brother-in-law moved into the “big

22 - Winter/Holiday 2012

house” and the post-depression era red insulbrick was replaced with blue and white vinyl siding. My sister and her husband remodeled the den and brought part of the house up to code electrically – the rest is still knob and tube wiring!

I wish I could find pictures of our house through time – to see how it has transformed over the years, but mostly as a guide for trying to restore it more closely to its period appearance with modern amenities. There have been several design styles at play inside, including mid-century modern, a 1970s colonial revival, and early 1980s country lodge. Right now we are stuck somewhere among them all.

My husband leans toward a hip, modern, industrial style, but we have come to a blended agreement between rustic country and New-York City loft.

However, this Pottery Barn style often wrestles with a WalMart budget. We had designed our dream home with this combination in mind a few years back, before circumstance led us back to the family home instead of taking on the new construction challenge. Derry architect Kevin Quinlisk did a fabulous job of blending our German bank barn meets trendy loft design for a home set to be built on my lot in Fairview Farm’s back 40. But things change, and we moved on, literally. (Thanks, Kevin – I’m sorry we never got to build it; maybe someday!).

A few weeks before we moved into the homestead, I had the upstairs carpeted – that’s when I found the floorboard in my very own childhood bedroom with the carving of 1887 and initials NMK, presumably a member of the Kiser family who settled this acreage in the 19th century. Normally I prefer to keep hardwood floors exposed, but carpet makes a bedroom more cozy – especially since the LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

fireplaces (in every room) no longer have working chimneys and the walls are without insulation! Fortunately, I remembered to make a pencil rubbing of the board before we covered it over!

We also painted the walls to brighten things up, since there was no time to replace the bulletin boards and add insulation. This spring, Greg, ripped out several layers of old flooring in the living room (which we are now using as a dining room) to reveal red oak and chestnut boards in great condition. He resurfaced and stained them. A new area rug has just arrived, and Greg will finish the baseboard trim as a winter project.

Laurel Mountain Post-style stories, links and photos EVERY DAY

www.facebook.com/laurelmountainpost and Pinterest

mother and sister once painted is another tough one – I am criticizing their decorating tastes right in front of them. There are so many ways to hurt feelings in a multigenerational homestead as it passes down through time!

But now it’s my turn, and everyone recognizes that despite the raw emotions. Greg and I are trying to rebuild a home together in midlife, on the foundations of those who lived here before us. That means new furniture, carpet, paint, housewares, and appliances combined with cherished heirlooms from all sides, including my children’s extended families.

We delight in picking out the perfect mirror for the front hall, take months choosing what photographs to hang up, and get endless quotes on all the projects on our list. Each month there is a budget struggle over what we can afford to do now, and what will have to wait. Waiting at our age is a different kind of hard – we are supposed to be settled by now, and building on the past, instead of starting over. It’s a condition experienced by so many

people these days, for so many economic and personal reasons. That’s why I think homesteading has become so appealing. It’s a quick path to a more genuine sense of “home” in a turbulent time; a way to take control of our situations, finding security and joy along the way. This psyche has led us to focus more on the present, and less on the mindless race toward the future.

So my goal for the winter months is to focus on sewing and needlework, making some of the things on our list like pillow covers, shams and curtains – instead of buying them when the budget allows. I hope to create our own family heirlooms rather than amass a collection of goods from a catalog (I’m sure Amazon.com and the UPS man will miss me, though). *****

Best friends, but never quite college sweethearts, Greg and Cathi finally married 20 years later. Together they own and operate Fairview Farm in Derry Township, now an estate winery in the making, “managed” by two peculiar black cats, two devoted dogs, and a ridiculously bossy new kitten.

We also tackled the front hall over the past few months. Not many newer homes actually have this type of entrance anymore – the kind where the stairs are in a room all by themselves.

Thanks to some inspiration from Pinterest, we added a board and batten wainscoting over the existing horsehair plaster walls. Structurally, the walls are in great shape – they just needed a facelift. Now to sand those stair treads . . .

I’ve learned that changing things in your family home can be difficult. I still open the wrong kitchen drawer looking for silverware where my mother used to keep it. I hesitate to tear apart anything my father built because it feels like I am insulting his memory. Painting over walls that my Every Story Begins At Home.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 23

SURE, AT FIRST I WAS A LITTLE TAKEN ABACK

BY THE WHOLE PEEING STANDING UP THING. BUT I TAUGHT HIM TO THROW A STICK AND NOW HANGING OUT WITH HIM IS THE BEST PART OF MY DAY. — EINSTEIN adopted 12-09-10

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LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

HOMESTUDY

by Brian Mishler

Did You Know?

Feed the Birds In any given winter, your Pennsylvania backyard sees about 35 species of birds. The varied species your yard attracts depends on the types of habitat you provide. The optimum yard will have an abundance of trees and shrubs (as nesting sites and cover from predators), sources of food and water, and a heated bird bath.

The Top Ten Pennsylvania Birds:

*

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Dark-eyed junco Mourning dove Tufted titmouse Northern cardinal Blue jay White-breasted nuthatch Downy woodpecker House finch American goldfinch Black-capped chickadee

*Project Feeder Watch, Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

When shopping for bird seed, you’ll find over 20 different types. Smll black-oil sunflower seed is the best all-around choice. Although it costs a bit more, it is preferred by smaller species such as nuthatches, chickadees and titmice. The high oil content in the sunflower seed is nutrititous, and the shells are easy to crack. Larger striped sunflower seeds are popular with Blue jays and cardinals, but difficult for small birds to eat.

Other popular choices include millet, peanuts and thistle seeds (a favorite of finches). Grains such as wheat, oats, rice and rye are NOT acceptable food for birds, and many less expensive varieties of bird seed use them as filler. The birds will pick through the grains, and only eat the seeds – leaving behind a rotting mess in your feeder.

A frequent phrase heard at home inspections is “I never knew…” Take it from a home inspector; here are a few great things to know during the holidays. 25% of all home décor fires occur in December.

Make sure the only thing roasting in your home is the turkey: • All extension cords are not created equally; indoor cords should not be used outdoors. Use the shortest cord possible; the extra cord laying there not only poses a trip hazard, but creates extra electrical demand and heat. Extension cords like any other wire or cable should be in good condition, not run under any carpeting or furniture. They should not be routed through walls, floors, doors, windows or anywhere else they might be pinched, or otherwise damaged. If you have a cat like mine, put the cords where he won’t / can’t chew them!

• Check the condition of the holiday lights and wires. If they’re nicked or otherwise damaged throw them away. The cost of the lights may seem high, but is far lower than your insurance deductible, and potential damage. Don’t plug all your lights into one outlet; this can overload that circuit; and follow the manufacturer’s requirements as to how many sets can be connected. If you need more outlets, hire an electrician; many people assume this to be an easy task, and then do it incorrectly.

• Even though your light display is the best in the neighborhood, turn it off before you go to bed. And be careful putting your display up; over 5,000 falls off ladders occur each year from folks hanging lights and decorations.

• Have your fireplaces or wood burner cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep before the holidays; they’re busiest between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Ask the technician about proper burning practices, and what not to burn; wrapping paper is one of them.

• Regarding that roasting turkey, 30% of home fires start in the kitchen. Don’t leave cooking food unattended. Keep pot and pan handles out of reach of small children, and keep flammable materials away from cooking appliances. Learn how to properly put out small kitchen fires here: http://www.youtube.com/watch ?v=ecvG7sb4H4M • When in doubt, check the manuals and tags that come with your décor or appliances. While it’s not fascinating reading, the information can help you ensure the joy and excitement of the holidays. ***** Brian Mishler is an 18-year veteran of home inspection and is a past president of PRO-ASHI, the local chapter of the American Society of Home Inspectors. You can get more information about home inspection at www.pro-ashi.com

For more information about local birds and other wildlife, contact the Penn State Extension Office of Westmoreland County, 214 Donohoe Rd in Greensburg; 724- 837-1402; or email: WestmorelandExt@psu.edu

Every Story Begins At Home.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 25

THE LIGONIER CHEF

by Scott Sinemus

Don’t Be U-bisque-quitous!

Squash of nearly any variety has never really been on my favorites list. Of course I will have the obligatory piece of pumpkin pie at some point during the holidays. Indeed most pumpkin baked goods do get my attention – even before I saw on the Discovery Channel a few years ago the results of a study suggesting that Pumpkin Pie is an aphrodisiac! Check it out: http://science.discovery.com/ top-ten/2009/aphrodisiacs/ aphrodisiacs-09.html Butternut squash is another squash that I could take or leave until I used it to make a soup, in this case “bisque.” A bisque is a rich, creamy soup made with shellfish — specifically, bisque is traditionally made with the puréed meat and shells of crustaceans, including lobster, crab, shrimp or crayfish. Bisque can be thickened with rice, which is the traditional method. Modern bisques are often thickened with roux. Although a classic bisque is made only with shellfish, some thick soups made with vegetables, poultry or meat are sometimes referred to as bisques.

I’ve had the good fortune of finding some amazing lobsters, and can’t bear to toss the shells out when they make the most amazing stock for soup and chowder! It is a royal mess and tragic for the blade of your Cuisinart (I keep a blade specifically for grinding the shells). The lobster base from Minors is pretty good; but doesn’t compare to making it yourself. So I proceeded to make a batch of stock. The decision of what to make with the stock is seldom easy. Miraculously I had a little meat left over; not enough for an entrée but a nice amount for bisque

26 - Winter/Holiday 2012

garnish. A friend gave us a really lovely butternut squash a few days prior. I thought the sweetness of the squash and the sweet lobster meat would be great together; and they are!

Using chicken stock or vegetable stock are acceptable substitutions; in fact that’s what I normally use now unless the menu warrants something indulgent.

Butternut Squash Bisque · · · ·

4 Tablespoons unsalted butter 1/2 cup diced onion 3/4 cup diced carrots 4 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash · 3 cups stock of your choice · At least 1.5 cups of Dry Sack Sherry · 1-1.5 cups pre cooked lobster meat · salt and ground black pepper to taste · ground nutmeg to taste · 1/2 cup heavy cream~ optional · More Sherry if desired · Petite home made croutons are a superlative addition

Directions

Something worth noting is, because of the velvety nature of butternut squash, when pureed there is no flour necessary in this recipe (and so is gluten free for those who have a gluten free lifestyle).

Its somewhat neutral base allows a plethora of additions as well. Lignonberries, cranberries, roasted pecans, crab, crème fraiche, fresh herbs, pheasant etc. Poke around the pantry and fridge and have yourself a ball!

Heat half of the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the onion in the butter until browned. Deglaze with sherry and remove to bowl.

Add remaining butter and cook carrots and squash until they begins to caramelize. Deglaze with more sherry, return onions and cover with stock, season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until vegetables are tender.

In a blender or food processor, puree the soup mixture until smooth. Return to the pot, and stir in the heavy cream and lobster meat.

Heat through, but do not boil. Serve hot with garniture of your choosing.

***** 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.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

For the Birds: Marvel Meal 1 cup peanut butter 1 cup vegetable shortening 4 cups cornmeal 1 cup flour 1 handful of sunflower seeds (optional) Mix and press into blocks or other shapes.

Hang in trees or smear on logs.

Nanny’s Brandy Slush 2 teabags 1 cup boiling water 1 cup sugar 3 1/2 cups cold water 1 - 6 oz can frozen orange juice 1/2 - 6 oz can frozen lemonaid 1/2 cup apricot brandy 7Up, Sprite, or Ginger Ale Steep teabag in boiling water 2-3 minutes.

Remove bag and stir in sugar.

Add remaining ingredients.

Mix well until sugar is dissolved.

Freeze overnight.

Remove 10 minutes before serving.

Spoon chunks into glass; add additional apricot brandy if desired; top with pop.

Holiday Favorites from Fairview Farm Church Dinner Ham Rolls Blend together to make a spread: 1 cup softened butter 3 Tablespoons mustard 3 Tablespoons poppy seeds 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 Tablespoon Worchestershire sauce 3 packages Martin’s mini potato rolls (24 count bags) 1 pound cooked deli ham, sliced ½ pound deli swiss cheese. Sliced Slice rolls open and slather top and bottom insides with spread above.

Layer ½ slice ham, folded and ¼ slice swiss cheese between roll halves.

Re-assemble as sandwiches, and warm in oven at 350 degrees on baking sheet until cheese melts and rolls start to crisp.

Sausage Pinwheels

Christmas Snow Cosmopolitan 4 parts white cranberry juice (1 cup) 2 parts vodka (1/2 cup) 1 part Cointreau (1/4 cup) twist/splash of lime Garnish with skewer of fresh cranberries and a lime wedge.

Serve with ice – shaken, not stirred!

Powdered Sugar Icing 1 TBL melted oleo 1/8 tsp salt powdered sugar 1/2 tsp vanilla 1 1/2 TBL milk Mix together and add powdered sugar to desired consistency. Use on your Christmas sugar cookies!

2 cups baking mix 1/2 cup water 3/4 to 1 lb plain sausage

Nanny’s Dill Dip 2/3 cup mayonnaise (not miracle whip) 2/3 cup sour cream 1 tsp seasoned salt 1 tsp parsley flakes 2 TBL minced onion (dried) 1 tsp dill weed Dash or more of garlic salt Mix together until creamy.

Serve with your favorite raw vegetables, crackers or other dipping items!

Every Story Begins At Home.

Combine first two ingredients and roll dough into a long ractangle. Spread sausage evenly across dough.

Roll along long edge into a tube. Chill until firm.

Slice into disks and bake on cookie sheet at 4500 for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Instant Cappucino Mix

Makes a great appetizer or holiday breakfast treat!

Grind together and add 2 TBL to one cup boilng water.

Store in a jar; give as a gift.

1 cup powdered creamer 1 cup chocolate milk mix 2/3 cup instant coffee 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 27

POSTMODERN TENDANCIES

by Megan Fuller

Land of Hard Work and Positivism In the last issue of the LMP we let readers know about the Laurel Mountain Post Kiva.org lending page and team. We lent $25 to Christina in Mariakani, Kenya to enhance her charcoal business. So far she has already paid back $2.08. Thank you to the folks who have joined our team and we invite others to do so!

This issue we are jumping across the globe from Kenya to Guatemala.

Guatemala is one of the most wonderful places that I have ever had the pleasure to visit and I am going to work diligently to ensure that I get to take my family there. I flew into Guatemala City on the day after Christmas 1991 and stayed with a friend for about one month.

My friend had been an exchange student at IUP and I met her when I lived at La Casa Español for a summer (it was $100 for the whole summer!). She was so nice to invite me down to stay with her family. We went to amazing places: up sides of volcanos and to black sand beaches, to Mayan ruins and colonial towns, we even stayed in a convent with the nuns. The people were the hardest working people I’d ever seen. Over the countryside tiny little men and women (I was a giant and I’m 5’4") would carry enormous bundles of agricultural products on their backs twice as big as the carrier.

Small children would sell gum or bracelets in the street and even scour the landfills to see if there was anything usable.

Funny Story: My friend, her boyfriend, her sister and I were on a bus coming home from the 28 - Winter/Holiday 2012

beach. The buses are old school buses from the United States. Not a single centimeter of space goes unused on these buses. Even the aisles are shrunk down to about 5 inches across so you can’t even stand with your legs side by side. My friends all got on the front of the bus but there was no room for me so I went to the back of the bus and was the last person on the bus right inside the emergency exit. On one side of me was a mom, a dad, and four kids. On the other side of me was a mom, a dad, five kids and two ducks. We were

Josefa and me in front of the convent where we stayed in Guatemala, December 1991.

packed in so tight I could not turn around. So as we were driving up the side of a volcano the emergency door flies open–right behind me! I couldn’t turn around to close it and I was sure that I was a going to be thrown out and left behind. Unfortunately, I don’t speak Spanish but I did know the word for door so I’m yelling at the dads on either side of me “la puerta, la puerta!!!”

and gesturing with my head (there was NO WAY that I was going to let go of the handles I was holding!). Finally, one of the dads looked and managed to get the door shut. Whew!

Back to Business: Though my time there was wonderful, the poverty of the rural areas was pervasive. For this reason making Kiva.org loans to entrepreneurs in Guatemala has been one of my priorities. Because it has been more than 20 years since my visit to Guatemala I asked my friend (the same wonderful friend from college via the magic of Facebook) to update me on the state of the economy: “The Guatemalan economy has always been hard. Guatemalans have been raised to have and not have. To be content with what we have, no matter how little, and be good hosts.”

Small farmers in Guatemala have a lot of trouble making money because most of their crops are used for feeding their families, and have only a small percentage to sell at the market.

For this reason it is very risky for them to borrow finances for their crops. Many small farmers have great difficulty paying off debt.

In Guatemala there is extreme poverty, and in the countryside it is even worse. The weather has been very difficult this year; many farmers could not produce even enough to cover the need to feed their families. The government has had to seek ways to help, bringing them corn from elsewhere (although realistically this aid is not enough and has not reached all the places that need it).

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Guatemala is a land of hard work and positivism, every morning you wake up with the desire to live and move on. The city has plenty of poverty, wages do not change and prices rise.

There is need for jobs and few opportunities. The Guatemalans have learned to appreciate things that are priceless such as sharing with family, playing with your kids, and walking the dog.

Banks might lend to farmers and artisans, however interest rates are about 25% annually, making it difficult for many to afford. Guatemala has a rich farmland but we are still far behind in terms of maximizing the land. What is produced by our farmers is the result of the strength of their hands. Using a hoe, machete and handmade instruments, the fields are worked. In most fields there is no machinery. In Guatemala, from the early hours of the morning, you can see whole families working the fields.

Small businesses that sell handicrafts are generally family businesses in which all family members are working and contributing to the business.

They work a lot, earn very little, but are content to get a living for their families.

Guatemala is rich in handicrafts and pure art, practiced manually with little specialized machinery. Guatemala produces: Pottery, Porcelain, Carretería (Weaving), Basketry, Hammocks, Synthetic clay objects – usually jewelry,

Iron Craft, Puppets, Wood-work and We at the LMP again invite you to Inlay, Massage, Mosaic, Silverware, join with us on Kiva.org and make a Tagua Objects, Upholstery, Stained loan to one of the many Guatemalan glass, Blown glass, etc. entrepreneurs or one of the other small One of the great difficulties facing producers looking to take their business Guatemala is the lack of to the next level. The industrialization and current exchange rate machinery: due to the between U.S. dollars poverty the population and Guatemalan Quetzuses manual labor to ales is 1:7.98. For more carry out their work. To information about the me this description is country of Guatemala: very moving. My friend visitguatemala.com. paints a clear picture of skilled, hardworking, ***** life-loving people who Megan Fuller is an applied may never have an opcognitive anthropologist portunity to get ahead with postmodern tendencies by expanding their farms currently working in enor their businesses bevironmental compliance for cause they are afraid to a mineral extraction comborrow from a bank. pany in historic Florence, Microlending through Arizona (Troy Polamalu Kiva.org provides them has an off season home with possibilities not just there!). She grew up in the My goddaughter, Elizabeth to expand their own Srsic (at age 1), modeling some exciting Pittsburgh suburb fine Guatemalan handicrafts of Pleasant Hills and had business, but to do so as from my trip. the distinct pleasure of a group. Many of the earning a Bachelor of Arts loans distributed there inAnthropology from IUP. In 1993, Megan are to borrowing groups, who are moved out West to get a Master’s Degree. She responsible for paying back the loan also picked up a husband and hasn’t quite together, rather than just an individual convinced him to move back to Western PA. entrepreneur. Group borrowing spreads To maintain her authentic Pittsburgh the risk, and maybe makes it more likely accent she regularly watches Pittsburgh Dad and engages anyone wearing black and for the Guatemalan farmer or artisan to gold sports gear in conversation. take that risk to get beyond subsistence.

Bringing Your Characters to Life Lacy Marschalk, an instructor at St. Francis College, will teach the workshop “Bringing Your Characters to Life” at a Ligonier Valley Writers program on Sunday, November 11, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at St Michael’s of the Valley Church in Rector. The workshop is free to LVW members and $10 to nonmembers.

In most fiction and nonfiction, characterization is the most important component. More than plot, setting, or theme, characters make us care about the world on the page and compel us to keep reading. Poorly constructed characters can have the opposite effect. They can make readers stop reading or even keep them from picking up a book in the first place.

This workshop will discuss essential ingredients for creating characters who matter: characters with whom readers want to laugh, cry, love, and live. We will discuss Every Story Begins At Home.

how to create convincing heroes and villains and how to find the right balance when describing characters and relaying backstory.

Lacy will create some of her famous handouts and give a short talk on how to make your readers care by bringing your characters to life. Then we’ll do several exercises and break into small groups to make sure everyone gets to participate and gets feedback on their work. Please bring at least two character sketches from a current story or novel in progress and a short scene in which a major character is introduced. Your excerpts need not be fully developed.

Lacy Marschalk is a fiction writer, a PhD candidate in English, a literature and writing teacher, a music and movie junkie, and a travel addict. Her blog is called “Diving into the Wreck.” She divides her time between Alabama and Pennsylvania.

Although some advice and exercises will be more helpful to fiction writers, this workshop is open to writers in all genres.

The registration deadline is November 6; space is limited. St. Michael’s Church is at 2535 Route 381 in Rector. You can download a registration form from LVWonline.org.

Please return it with your check (payable to Ligonier Valley Writers) to Judith Gallagher, 128 Ober Rd., Stahlstown, PA 15687 by November 6, 2012.

For more information, please e-mail jgallagher@LVWonline.org or call Judith at (724) 593-7294.

To join LVW and receive discounts on this and other events, download a membership application at LVWonline.org. If you join now, your membership will run through 2013. Dues are $30 per year. Ligonier Valley Writers serves writers and readers throughout western Pennsylvania.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 29

ASK GRANNY EARTH Healing with Weeds

All About Cob Houses I have been obsessed with cob-mania for several years now. When I tell people about my vision of building my own “cob” house, most often they get a puzzled look on their face. I ask them, “Do you know what cob is?” They usually respond, “Corn cobs? You want to build a house using corn cobs?” Then I go on to explain to them what cob is, and how I have a vision of building with cob. And so the purpose of this article is to educate and draw attention to the importance of building in unison with Mother Nature and giving back to her more than what we take.

The word “cob” is an old English word meaning “a lump or a rounded mass of earth,” (also called “clom” in Wales).

Cob walling, a traditional English technique of monolithic (massive, solid, uniform) earthen wall construction uses a mixture of moistened earth and straw. The mud and straw mixture could be laid as walls with or without the use of wooden forms. The earliest documented earthen structures in this country are two cob walled residences in Penfield (Near Rochester), New York: the Lawrence Johnston House (1832) and the William Gorse House (1836). These structures are still standing today.

If you have ever worked with clay as an art medium, you know first-hand the satisfaction and tranquility that takes place as you create your piece of art from a lump of earth. I have been told that clay contains every mineral element that the human body possesses. This is because it has undergone millenniums of transformation with the natural elements and decaying life matter. These elements are all 30 - Winter/Holiday 2012

merged into the malleable clay as a still life form. I think of it as actually being alive, just waiting for my hands to transmute my energy with it into a finished product, be it a pot or a house.

When you begin working with clay, and put your own energy into it, magic happens. If you can still your mind and totally immerse yourself in your

Thatched cob cottage in Cornwall, England.

project, time seems to fly. Your deepest inner being is expressed in, and becomes part of your clay project. In this sense, working with can be a very healing adventure.

Healing and creative- that’s what I think of when I visualize building with cob. First you have to select your building site, arrange for septic and water provisions and excavate (as little as possible) so that you have good drainage away from the house. Next scrape off the topsoil from the proposed house area and dig down to below the frost line, or solid bed rock for your footer. Pile the soil somewhere handy for making cob mixes later. Fill the footer ditch with reinforced poured

concrete up to ground level and embed the first layer of stonework into the top of the wet concrete. Next, you’ll need to provide for your plumbing and electricity supply lines, put down the cob floor, and decide on what type of roof you’ll want.

Now you’re ready to start sculpting with cob, which will eventually turn to “stone.” You can design your house before you start, or you can create as you go, making any shape you want.

Start with a blend of clay, earth and sand. The proportions used will depend on the type of soil used. A good cob mix only needs about 20-30% of clay.

Water is added according to pliability, making the mix not too firm, nor too runny. Then you add a lot of chopped up straw, preferably wheat, which is more fibrous than oat. The best way to mix the ingredients is to use one wheelbarrow full on a tarpaulin and stomp it with your bare feet after water has been added to the sand and clay.

Continue with the stomping after adding the straw. The mix is ready as soon as the straw is coated with earth, and the clumps (cob) have a plastic consistency. Start cobbing by carrying hands full or coffee cans full of the mix to the site. Sculpting and being creative is an important part of the con-struction. So have fun!

There are a lot of details and “tricks of the trade” to learn when cobbing. I recommend the book, The Cob Builders Handbook, by Becky Bee. It gives pictures and detailed instructions, which are very helpful. Ms. Bee has built her own cob houses, and warns: “Caution: Cob is addicting.” She encourages women to build their own cob houses, as a way to be less dependent LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Audubon to Expand Christmas Bird Count New York, NY - The Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC), the longestrunning citizen science wildlife survey in the world, will undergo several significant changes beginning this year as Audubon builds on the program’s success to entice birdwatchers to lend their eyes and ears year round. Fees to participate in the count will be dropped to encourage greater participation, and the annual published report, American Birds, will go digital in 2013, saving more trees for the birds. Christmas Bird Count information will be available online in Spanish for the first time. And in 2013, Audubon will begin to extend conservation-focused observation efforts throughout the seasons.

American Robin by Johnathan Oleyar, courtesy National Audubon Society

continued from page 30

on the patriarchal system for their shelter. She feels that cobbing is a way for women to re-experience a sense of community, and be empowered to make more life choices for themselves.

This isn’t to say that we still don’t need men and a few machines to do the really hard work. It’s just that building a house with cob is inexpensive, creative, and very possible for an individual, or a group of women to do.

Making homes with natural materials gathered gently from the earth improves the likelihood of the survival of life itself. It is gentle on the planet and reduces the use of wood, steel and toxic building materials. Cob houses are easy, affordable, comfortable and long lasting.

They can last for centuries. ‘Earth’ is recyclable – Nature’s abundant, cheapest, healthiest building material.

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

Granny Earth has a bachelor’s in Psychology from California University of Pennsylvania (which she earned at age 59), and both a masters and doctorate from Clayton College of Natural Health. Visit her website www.grannyearth.com, call 724-542-9713, or email grannyearth@zoominternet.net.

Every Story Begins At Home.

“We’re dropping fees, adding languages, going digital, and taking citizen science year-round,” said Audubon President and CEO David Yarnold. “The Audubon Christmas Bird Count harnesses volunteer power to gather knowledge that shapes conservation policy at enormous scales in this country. I couldn’t be prouder of the 60,000-plus volunteers who contribute each year: This is the largest, longest-running animal census on the planet, and we’re all proud to be a part of the CBC. And with the elimination of fees, we’re looking forward to even more people having a role in this adventure.”

From Dec. 14, 2012, to Jan. 5, 2013, tens of thousands of volunteers will add a new layer to data that has shaped conservation and Congressional decisions.

“This is not just about counting birds,” says Gary Langham, Audubon’s chief scientist. “Data from the Audubon Christmas Bird Count are at the heart of hundreds peer-reviewed scientific studies and inform decisions by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Department of the Interior, and the EPA. Because birds are early indicators of environmental threats to habitats we share, this is a vital survey of North America and, increasingly, the Western Hemisphere.”

CBC revealed the dramatic impact climate change is already having on birds, and a disturbing decline in common birds, including the Northern Bobwhite quail. The many decades of data not only helps identify birds in need of conservation action, it also reveals success stories. CBC helped document the comeback of the Bald Eagle and significant increases in waterfowl populations, both the result of conservation efforts.

Last year’s count shattered records. A total of 2,248 counts and 63,223 people tallied over 60 million birds. Counts took place in all 50 states, all Canadian provinces, plus 99 count circles in Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Islands. In Colombia, the Christmas Bird Count is a crucially important monitoring system of biodiversity in the country.

The journal Nature issued an editorial citing CBC as a “model” for Citizen Science. The count began in 1900 when Dr. Frank Chapman, founder of BirdLore (which evolved into Audubon magazine) suggested an alternative to the holiday “side hunt,” in which teams competed to see who could shoot the most small game, including birds. Chapman proposed that people count birds instead, described by actor John Cleese in The Big Year (watch it here on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMHlzAuYnfs).

To find a count near you http://birds.audubon.org/get-involved-christmasbird-count

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 31

THREE PENNIES

by Cindy Blonk Parker

Broken and Blessed She did not look like a Pharisee. She appeared harmless: long brown hair that she often wore pulled back from her face, she dressed in the latest designers and worked out on her treadmill daily. She had three children, all girls whom she would bring to church on Sunday mornings. She sat proudly in the front pew with her children beside her, confident that she followed God’s laws to the letter: she had no other gods in her life; she had not murdered or committed adultery.

She did not steal, lie, or covet her neighbor’s possessions (too much). I know what Pharisees are like you see, because she was me.

And then one day everything changed. I found myself a divorced, single parent of three daughters, trying desperately to juggle their care, work, activities and church. Broken: that’s a good word for what I was and how I felt.

A little while later, God sent a wonderful, divorced man into my life, at a time when I certainly wasn’t interested and eventually he proposed.

I was in my final year at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and I was taking a course on the Gospel of Mark and I came face to face with the passage where Jesus is questioned by the Pharisees about divorce. And remarriage. I was especially concerned with the part about remarriage because Jesus has some not so nice things to say about remarriage and committing adultery.

In case you are wondering, I did get remarried, with God’s blessing, I believe, but not without a lot of questions about Jesus’ words. And so I continued to read, study, cry over, reread, question and pray about this passage of scripture.

On Sunday, October 7th, churches all over the world celebrated World Communion together. As a pastor and 32 - Winter/Holiday 2012

a preacher I follow the lectionary, which is a three year cycle of scripture that follows the church liturgical year. (It keeps you from preaching on the same texts.) Any guesses which passage of scripture was part of the lectionary for that day? If you guessed this passage in Mark’s gospel about divorce and the blessing the children, you would be correct!

I have to admit I was tempted to skip over the part about divorce, perhaps preaching instead about how we are all God’s children. Or maybe I could just ignore this passage. And so I prayed: “Please God let me speak about one of the other lectionary readings.

Give me the psalm, God, it’s a really good one! Or Hebrews, Lord, I can preach on that!”

But the answer I received is this: “What is the church, if not a place where we can really talk about these tough issues, support one another, pray for each other and share God’s love with each other, especially to those reeling from the pain of divorce?”

And so, God sent a divorced, remarried woman preacher to speak about a passage of scripture that has caused hurt and guilt and blame over the years and through God’s love transform it into a passage about HOPE. Being a former Pharisee myself, I noticed that Jesus doesn’t simply begin to teach the disciples about divorce as he does about other subjects in Mark’s gospel. In this passage, Jesus was approached by some Pharisees who asked him this question about the legality of divorce specifically to test him.

I wondered, “Are the Pharisees really concerned with Jesus’ answer?”

Yes—but only because they are trying to trap him into saying something that went against their laws. They already know the answer to their question.

Pharisees are crafty, they know Jesus proclaims God’s mercy and grace and that conflicts with the law that they so carefully follow. They want Jesus to say something that will step outside of the law’s boundaries. Pharisees are like that, and that’s why Jesus has a hard time with them.

Pharisees are so concerned, so focused on following the laws to the letter that they forget about the people.

The Pharisees end up answering their own question, (they knew the answer all along!) So Jesus reminds them that God did permit divorce because of the hardness of the people’s hearts. But then he tells them about God’s intention for us, which is marriage, not divorce.

Jesus reframes the Pharisee’s question. He turns their question about divorce into a question about marriage.

He is letting us know that divorce is something that God permits, but it is not what God intended for us. God wants the best for his children- not pain, not heartache, not loneliness, not grief-which are all the products of divorce. The proof comes to us through Jesus Christ-a savior who came for a broken people.

And that’s often what we find when we encounter Jesus–our questions are answered in ways we never thought possible- grace and mercy are freely given and lives are changed.

In this passage, as in so many of the gospel stories where Jesus is teaching, the disciples just don’t get it!

Which I love, because they remind me of how clueless we can sometimes be with Jesus’ words.

I imagine Jesus becoming frustrated with the disciples: after all, these are the ones who should know him the best. They are the ones who have eaten with him, walked with him, talked with him, spent countless hours LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

with him, and yet, THEY STILL DON’T GET IT! And sometimes, neither do we.

And so Jesus tells them this: “whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”

WHAT?? These are the last words we expect to hear out of Jesus’ mouth.

Sounds extremely harsh, doesn’t it?

The first time I read this passage, I remember thinking, “That’s not the Jesus I know!”

One of my seminary professors always told his students to read through the passage and focus on what sticks out, what gets under the skin, what grabs hold and won’t let go! For me, it’s this part of the passage. These words are meant to grab us, to get our attention, to have us whip our heads around and say, run that by me again!

So, how do we reconcile these harsh words with the Lord of love and grace? For that, we have to look back at the bigger picture of Jesus and his ministry. Just as it is important not to take a passage of out context, it is equally important to look at it within the entire framework: in this case, Mark’s gospel.

Who did Jesus spend time with while he lived here on Earth? Was he dining in the great banquet halls with powerful kings? Was he leading large armies to victory? No, he was the one who cared for the outcasts and healed the sick, invited the poor to feasts and those on the fringes of society he made whole. He is the one who takes everything we know and turns it upside down.

What sounds harsh to our ears takes on another tone entirely when we understand that Jesus’ intent is the protection and honor of the woman who was cast aside after a divorce decree. When a woman received a “certificate of divorce” she lost what little rights she had and could easily find herself begging for food or selling her body for money to survive. And so we have Jesus condemning those who Every Story Begins At Home.

divorce and remarry in order to protect us, his children.

We are the ones that take these passages of Scripture, who take Jesus’ own words and twist them into words that hurt. Scripture has been used over the years to satisfy people’s own agendas: helping to keep slavery alive and well in this country, condemning people who are not like us. All by using Jesus’ words against them.

This passage has been used for years by proponents who view marriage sanctioned only between a man and a woman. Imagine the hurt that inflicts on those for whom that is not an option. When we use a passage of scripture to serve our own agendas, are we really any better than the Pharisees?

We sit in our church pews and wonder: • If our divorced sons and daughters will be beside us in heaven?

• If our gay friends are damned for all eternity?

• If our Jewish in-laws won’t be saved because they don’t believe Christ is the Messiah?

• If our children’s friends who are Muslims or Buddists or Hindus have no hope of resurrection?

We are a broken people. Whether we are broken by divorce, broken by guilt, broken by addiction, broken by adultery, broken by taking God’s name in vain, or broken like the Pharisees,

who believe that they are not broken at all.

If all of that is just too much for us to wrap our heads around, the writer of Mark’s gospel reminds us at the end of this passage to, “let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.”

Are we really so naïve that we believe by Jesus’ words, only children go to heaven? It reminds me of another Pharisee, Nicodemus, who asks Jesus how to enter his mother’s womb again in order to be born again. Sometimes Jesus’ words are not meant to be taken literally.

So why does the writer of Mark’s gospel place the blessing of the children here? Because he didn’t have anywhere else to put it? I don’t think so. I think the writer of Mark’s gospel is intentional in his placement of the text. He reminds here, using Jesus’ own words, that we are all God’s children, and that the kingdom of God belongs to each and every one of us.

We are a broken people; that is true, but we are a blessed people too.

Blessed because a savior has come to God’s beloved children.

And so, that is the story about a divorced and remarried woman who came to understand how a passage of Scripture that has been used for centuries to hurt, has been transformed through Christ’s grace into a woman containing HOPE. ***** Cindy Parker came to the United Church of Christ by way of the Presbyterian Church. A life-long Presbyterian, she jokes that she was “predestined to become UCC!” Currently called as the Pastor and Teacher of Christ Church UCC in Latrobe, PA and St. John’s UCC in Darlingtoon; she, her husband Larry and three daughters enjoy traveling all over the world! Cindy also serves as a Spiritual Director for the Three Rivers Walk to Emmaus retreats and was part of the team that brought the Kairos Outside Ministry to Pennsylvania.

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

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 33

What is the scientific consensus on all the extreme weather we’ve been having—from monster tornadoes to massive floods and wildfires?

Is there a clear connection to climate change?

And if so what are we doing to be prepared? — Jason Devine, Summit, PA Extreme weather does not prove the existence of global warming, but climate change is likely to exaggerate it—by messing with ocean currents, providing extra heat to forming tornadoes, bolstering heat waves, lengthening droughts and causing more precipitation and flooding.

“A changing climate leads to changes in the frequency, intensity, spatial extent, duration and timing of extreme weather and climate events, and can result in unprecedented extreme weather and climate events,” reports the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), an

In a poll conducted by Yale University, four out of five Americans reported personally experiencing one or more types of extreme weather in 2011, while more than a third said they were personally harmed by one or more of these events. A large majority of Americans believe that global warming made several high profile extreme weather events worse. (Credit: iStockPhoto/Thinkstock)

independent group of leading climate scientists convened by the United Nations to provide the world with a clear scientific view on the current state of knowledge in climate change and its potential environmental and socio-economic impacts.

While most scientists don’t dispute the link between global warming and extreme weather, the once skeptical public is now starting to come around—especially following 2011, when floods, droughts, heat waves and tornadoes took a heavy toll on the U.S. According to a poll conducted by researchers at Yale University’s Project on Climate Change Communication, four out of five Americans reported

34 - Winter/Holiday 2012

personally experiencing one or more types of extreme weather or a natural disaster in 2011, while more than a third were personally harmed either a great deal or a moderate amount by one or more of these events. And a large majority of Americans believe that global warming made several high profile extreme weather events worse, including record high summer temperatures nationwide, droughts in Texas and Oklahoma, catastrophic Mississippi River flooding, Hurricane Irene and an unusually warm winter.

The IPCC wants world leaders to err on the side of caution in preparing their citizens for extreme weather events that will likely become more frequent; earlier this year they released a report entitled “Managing the Risks of Extreme Events and Disasters to Advance Climate Change Adaptation” to help policymakers do just that. The report is considered a must read in coastal, arid and other especially vulnerable areas.

As for the U.S. government, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) tracks weather and storms, while the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) deals with the impacts of extreme weather and other disasters. But critics would like to see Congress and the White House do more to increase Americans’ preparedness. “The U.S. [in 2011] experienced a record fourteen weather-related disasters each in excess of a billion dollars—and many more disasters of lesser magnitudes,” reports the non-profit Climate Science Watch (CSW). “Yet the U.S. has no national climate change preparedness strategy; and Federal efforts to address the rising risks have been undermined through budget cuts and other means.” CSW and others are calling for the creation of a new cabinet-level agency called the National Climate Service to oversee both climate change mitigation as well as preparedness for increasingly extreme weather events.

CONTACTS: IPCC report, www.ipcc-wg2.gov/SREX/ images/uploads/SREX-SPMbrochure_FINAL.pdf; Yale Project, http://environment.yale.edu/climate/files/ Extreme-Weather-Climate-Preparedness.pdf; FEMA, www.fema.gov; NOAA, www.noaa.gov; Climate Science Watch, www.climatesciencewatch.org.

EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is a registered trademark of E - The Environmental Magazine (www.emagazine.com). Send questions to: earthtalk@emagazine.com. Subscribe: www.emagazine.com/subscribe. Free Trial Issue: www.emagazine.com/trial.

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

A Crafty Treasure Chest for Kids!

During my days as a preschool teacher, it was often hard to come up with enough craft projects to keep kids busy throughout the week – even with a fully-stocked craft cupboard stuffed with supplies at my disposal. As a mother, it was downright exhausting sometimes.

But now there’s a great new product for 3-7 year-olds called “Kiwi Crate.” The LMP recently received some samples of this product, and we asked an expert for help. Emmersyn White, a first grader at Latrobe Elementary School, agreed to do

some Kiwi Crate crafts with us. Our two sample boxes were “Gifts Made By Me” (shown in photos) and “Crafty Christmas.”

We started with the Gifts box, and were happily surprised that it came with EVERYTHING needed to complete the crafts – down to the Q-tips! The materials were high quality, with very easy to understand picture and word step-by-step directions.

Each phase of the projects takes about 15 minutes to complete – a great timeline for young attention spans. Clean-up was easy, and Emmersyn was excited to get started on the next one, Crafty Christmas. Her favorite project in that box was the tree ornament, but we haven’t worked on the gingerbread house yet!

What was her favorite thing about the Kiwi Crate boxes? “Doing it together!”

Check it out – each box is $19.95; subscriptions are $19.95 per month, and only $7.95 for each additional child. There are tons of boxes to choose from. We were pretty darn impressed!

– Cathi Gerhard

www.kiwicrate.com

Santa’s Arrival: November 23 (6:30 pm) Town Wide Open House: December 2 (noon to 5pm) Gingerbread House Contest: December 1-9 (vote for your favorite!)

Ice Fest: January 26-27

Every Story Begins At Home.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 35

Dovecote

A unique collection of new and old.

20 Brilliant Ave in Aspinwall 412-781-1777

136 East Main St in Ligonier 724-238-3181

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

Where Country Has Old-Fashioned Flair!

Johnston Benchworks Furniture Handmade Primitives, Lamps, Country Prints Berries/Twigs/Garland, Wood Signs, Flags/Stars Denims/Purses and a whole lot more!

Tues-Thurs 11-4, Fri-Sat 10-5, Sun 12-4 231 East Main St • Ligonier, PA • 724-238-3376 Call for Holiday Hours

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

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

New Holiday Merchandise!

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

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

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

“Dr. Mastson, you’re the best!”

Fly Fishing Center Dog Beds & Pet Accessories Barbour Waxed Jackets Men’s and Women’s Apparel Home & Gift Ideas

FREE UPS SHIPPING with catalog orders

– Basel Wasel

www.ligonieroutfitters.com

Men’s Shop

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

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

“When How You Look Matters” 36 - Winter/Holiday 2012

Ligonier Outfitters

NEW Vera Bradley • Byers’ Choice Carolers Baby Gifts • Caspari Paper Products Cards •Fashion Jewelry • Scarves • Linens

TheFinishingTouch 210 West Main Street in Ligonier Mon - Sat 9:30-5 and Sun 12:30-5

724-238-9832

Spend $10 or more to sign up for a $25 gift certificate (Drawn Monthly)

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

“Quest for the Best” Best Lunch in Ligonier

CONNECTIONS CAFE & TEAROOM

109 South Market Street in Ligonier 724-238-9611 • Open 7 Days Monday - Saturday, 11-6 • Sundays 12-4 Women’s Sportswear and Accessories • Gifts and Wool Shop Dusters NAOT and OTBT Shoes & Sandals

Edible Kneads Breakfast Bagels (Mon & Tues) Healthy Salads • Homemade Soups • Desserts Grilled Cheese Sandwiches • Loose Tea • Locally Roasted Coffee Dinner with Friends (Thursday) Mexican Night (Friday)

Steelers, Penguins, Holiday Gifts from Around the World

The Paper House

Cards & Collectibles Polish Pottery Locally-made pure maple syrup Boxed Bayberry Tapers Boxed Lang Holiday Greeting Cards Products from Sand Hill Berries 2013 Lang Calendars Loova Glycerin Soaps

On the Diamond at 121 W. Main St. 724-238-3160

On the Diamond

ANTIQUES Multi-Dealer Shop

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

Mary Jo Culbertson Proprietor (724) 238-0497

Second Chapter Books New & Used Books • Childrens Gifts • Jewelry Greeting Cards • Neat Stuff • Great Holiday Gifts 139 East Main Street Ligonier, PA 15658

724-238-7933 fb.com/secondchapterbooks

The Strawberry Crow 209 East Main Street Ligonier, PA 15658 724-995-8022

Period Reproduction Furniture • Candles Folk Art • Lighting • Textiles • Antiques • Giftware Handmade in the USA Folk Art Santas by Arnett

Extended Holiday Hours!

219 East Main Street Ligonier, PA 15658 724.995.8116 • 877.848.6371 Monday - Saturday 10 - 5 www.naughtytoffee.com

Melt in your mouth mischief!

Every Story Begins At Home.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 37

Latrobe: Welcome to the Neighborhood!

latrobe Latrobe Animal Clinic

906 Ligonier Street Latrobe, PA 15650 www.RoseStyleShoppe.com

5767B Route 981 Latrobe, PA 15650

724-537-6218

724-539-8531

Laurel Mountain Post Subscribers

Take $5 OFF purchase of $25 or more

Ben Helman, DVM Winry Hughes, Fairview Farm

www.LatrobeAnimalClinic.com

(Must present coupon at time of purchase) Valid November 2012 through January 2013

Celebrating 80 Years of Style in Downtown Latrobe!

“I heard a bird sing In the dark of December A magical thing And sweet to remember.”

Oliver Herford

3804 Route 30 in Latrobe

724-539-1900

www.eyeglassshoppe.net

SAME CONVENIENT LOCATION! Behind Domino’s Pizza Downtown Latrobe

72 4-53 7-9329 724-53 4-537-9329 Angela Caurso, Jr. James Deglau

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

38 - Winter/Holiday 2012

Michael J. Brownfield, O.D. Matthew A Christianson, O.D. Friendly Service and Quality Products!

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

HOLIDAY/ WINTER COMMUNITY CALENDAR “In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy.” –William Blake

Through December 28

Craft Friday

Johnstown Children’s Museum Rt. 56 & 7th Ave. Johnstown 814.539.1889 A different craft every week at the Johnstown Children’s Museum!

Presented at about 2:30; suitable for kids aged 4 and up. www.jaha.org Wednesdays - Saturdays through Christmas, 10 am - 3 pm

Colonel James M. Schoonmaker and Civil War Vets Monessen Heritage Museum, 505 Donner Ave, 724-684-8460 www.monessenhistoricalsociety.org

Colonel James M. Schoonmaker was the youngest colonel in the Union Army during the Civil War and received the Medal of Honor for gallantry at the Third Battle of Winchester in 1864. In later years he became heavily involved in the coke oven business in Westmoreland and Fayette Counties. He was a founder of the Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad and served as a director, Vice President and later Chairman of the Board.

He was involved in veterans’ affairs and was the long-time president of the Pennsylvania Association of the Blind. As the head of the East Side Land Company of Pittsburgh, he founded the town of Monessen. The Greater Monessen Historical Society salutes the Colonel with an exhibit showcasing over sixty family and official photographs of the Schoonmaker Family. Other Mon Valley Civil War veterans are also on display, such as the Ringgold Cavalry members. There are Civil War memorabilia and items to see.

Ted Neeley (Jesus Christ Superstar) and his Little Big Band take a look back at Ted’s career as a pioneer of rock operas and showcase music from his new CD. Show starts at 8 PM. Presented by Vestry.

November 8-10

Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe

St. Emma Monastery, 1001 Harvey St in Greensburg 724-834-3060, www.stemma.org. Admission $5 Our annual Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe runs Thursday, November 8 (Early Bird Evening 5-8 pm), Friday November 9 (11-7) and Saturday, November 10 (10-4). Great selection of wonderful gifts, great low prices, tasty baked goods and yes, we will wish you a Merry Christmas!

This year’s menu includes fish sandwiches, pierogies, beef sandwiches, homemade chili and pizza to eat in or take out. Donations accepted of items that you have to re-gift or like-new items. For questions or additional information, please call!

November 9, December 14

Art on Tap

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

November 3&4, 10&11, 17&18 (3-7 pm) November 24 (5-8 pm), November 25, Dec 1-2, 8-9 (3-7 pm)

November 9-11

Compass Inn Museum, 1382 Route 30 E in Laughlintown. 724-238-4983 www.compassinn.com

Mylan Park Expo Center in Morgantown, WV, 500 Mylan Park Lane www.familyfestivals.com, 724-863-4577, Fri & Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4

Harvest & Christmas Candlelight Tours

Experience the beauty of Compass Inn decorated for the holidays with all natural accents. Cheery wood fires in three fireplaces and the glow of nearly 100 candles enhance the informative and entertaining tour. An 1862 addition is opened that displays many interesting items that cannot be seen any other time of year. In there, you can relax by a crackling fire with a cup of hot mulled cider and a cookie, and enjoy the gracious hospitality of a 19th century inn.

November 7

Holiday Marketplace Preview

Westmoreland Museum of Amercan Art, 221 N Main St in Greensburg www.wmuseumaa.org, 724-837-1500 Great shopping is what you’ll find as The Westmoreland’s shop, An American Marketplace, is transformed for the holidays. Featuring oneof-a-kind items created by contemporary American artists, craftsmen and designers, the Marketplace is the perfect stop for unique holiday shopping. 20% off purchases this evening only, complimentary refreshments and free gift-wrapping are provided throughout the evening. All purchases support the Westmoreland Museum of American Art and its programs. 5pm-9pm November 7

Ted Neeley and the Little Big Band

The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org. $45, $38, $28; Senior and student discounts

Every Story Begins At Home.

3rd Annual West Virginia Arts & Crafts Spectacular

Featuring artists & craftsmen from throughout the region, you can browse and shop over 185 exhibits of high-quality arts & crafts including jewelry, dried & silk floral arrangements, decorative painting, soft sculpture, photography, clothing, fabric decor for your home, personalized ornaments, scented candles, lotions & soaps, pet collars & treats, holiday decorations, and much, much more!!! Sample delicious pre-packaged foods such as dip & drink mixes, candies, fudge, kettle korn, roasted almonds & nuts, dessert mixes and more!!!

You can do all of your holiday shopping and home decorating at the Mylan Park Expo Center!!! Bring your camera and take your child’s photograph with Santa!!! Have your face painted and create balloon animals with clowns Glitter Dot & Dapper!!! Acres of free parking!!!

Festival held rain, snow, sleet or shine!!!

Admission: Adults $5.50, Senior Citizen (65+) $5.50, Child (6-12) $1.00, Under 6 FREE November 10 & 17

Afternoon Tea at Historic Hanna’s Town 362 Sandhill Rd in Greensburg, 724-532-1935 www.westmorelandhistory.org

Escape the inevitable hustle and bustle that comes with preparing for the holiday season by indulging with a friend or two in the ambiance of early Americana at Historic Hanna’s Town. The Westmoreland County Historical Society will serve Afternoon Tea during two seating at 11:30 and 2:00 p.m. Full tea will be served, which includes tea, savories, scones, sweets and pastries, for $18 per guest. Seating is limited and Winter/Holiday 2012 - 39

advance booking is a must. Please call 724-532-1935 x215 to reserve your place at tea.

The English Afternoon Tea dates to the 1840s, but tea drinking in Britain began in the mid-1650s. At that time, tea was expensive, and it was primarily the aristocracy who could afford the delicate pots, cups, and tea-brewing equipment, as well as the leisure time needed to enjoy the exotic beverage. Tea drinking was widespread by the early 1700s, and became even more popular when Queen Anne (1665-1714) made it known that she preferred tea to ale with her breakfast. The Duchess of Bedford, Anna Maria Stanhope, is credited with beginning the social custom of late afternoon tea time by inviting friends to enjoy tea with an assortment of butter sandwiches, cakes and sweets.

A special Open House will be held at the Hanna’s Town Shop during the teas from 11:00a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Many regularly stocked items will be on sale and special stocking stuffers and holiday gifts will be available.

November 10, 1902

Youngwood incorporated

George Washington wrote that his life was never in more danger than during this incident. Young Col. Washington led a group of Virginia militia out from the post at Loyalhanna (later named Fort Ligonier) and encountered troops led by fellow Virginian Lt. Col. George Mercer. In the twilight conditions, both forces confused the other for the enemy. For additional information visit www.fortligonier.org.

November 14, 1864

Irwin incorporated November 14

Elko Concerts presents Chris Isaak

The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org. Tickets $59 and $45.

November 15

Latshaw Productions presents KC & the Sunshine Band

November 10 and December 8

The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org. 7:30 pm.

St. Vincent College, Dupre Science Pavilion, 724-805-2631, 11 am

November 15

Planetarium Shows

“Fall Sky Show and Dynamic Earth.”All of the shows will also feature “The Sky Over Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood” at 12:30 p.m.

Each show lasts about one hour and begins with a tour of the season’s night sky conducted by one of the faculty members in astronomy from the College’s Department of Physics, Dr. John Smetanka or Dr. Daniel Vanden Berk. Selected deep sky objects – star clusters, nebula and galaxies – will be viewed along with simulated trips to planets and moons in the solar system. The shows will end with a 25-minute theatrically-produced full-dome immersive video.

A second, 30-minute show appropriate for children age 3 to 10, The Sky Over Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood, will be presented at 12:30 p.m. on each date. The show will explore the sky with Mr. Rogers and the animated characters from the land of make believe.

Because of limited seating, advance reservations are requested and may be made by contacting the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Computing at 724 805-2631. Private shows for groups of 15 to 35 people may also be scheduled at other times by contacting the Boyer School. Scout groups who wish to fulfill requirements for merit badges are especially encouraged to make appointments.

November 11, 1895

Arona Incorporated November 11, 1911

Export incorporated November 11

2nd Annual Hungarian Grape Festival Mill Creek, 1 Springer Rd in Ligonier, 4 pm

Homemade food and dessert, live entertainment by The Relics and The Tamburitzan Alumni Dance group, wine tasting by Walnut Hill Winery, cash bar, door prizes, raffle baskets donated by local businesses, 50/50 tickest, and traditional game will be provided for only $15 (preordered) or $17 at the door, $5 for children 5-15 years old, and FREE for children under 5 years old. The event is sponzored by and will benefit the Bethlen Communities Hungarian Cultural Center. Please call Timea 724-2382032 ext. 27 (Bethlen Communities) or Judy at 724-238-7942 (The Valley Center for Active Adults).

Novembe 12,1758

George Washington nearly killed by friendly fire incident in future Westmoreland County

40 - Winter/Holiday 2012

Phoenix Jazz Project

Westmoreland Jazz Society at Westmoreland Museum of American Art 7:30 pm. $10 for members, $15 for nonmembers, $3 for students under 21 Most of the basis for the quintet’s music lies in traditional jazz. But the group prides itself in creating and performing great music regardless of genre. From the traditional styles of originals “Halfway Out and “Billy or Bud to the modernized arrangements of classics “If I Only Had a Brain and “Softly As A Morning Sunrise, the Phoenix Jazz Project provides a wide variety of entertaining music. They have wowed audiences from Pittsburgh to Prague. Performers include pianist Tom Glovier, vocalist Jessie Glovier, drummer Dr. David Glover, saxophonist Eric DeFade and bassist Bob Insko. www.phoenixjazzproject.com November 16

Deer Camp: The Musical

The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org. Tickets $30, $25, $20 You’ll laugh your antlers off as four Mighty Hunters head off to their shack in search of the elusive 14-point big buck, but between the beer and the bull, who has time to hunt? Starring Tony Papenfuss and John Voldstad, best known as “My Brother Darryl and my other Brother Darryl,” on the “Newhart” television show. Show starts at 8 PM November 16 - January 1, 2013

Overly’s Country Christmas

Westmoreland Agricultural Fairgrounds, 123 Blue Ribbon Lane in Greensburg. 724-423-1400, www.overlys.com Celebrate the season at Overly’s Country Christmas®, an impressive holiday light display complete with a walk-through Christmas Village that’s filled with an array of old-fashioned traditions and treats. Sing carols ‘round the bonfire, revel in the model train display, have your picture taken with Santa and shop for gifts in the C. Edgar & Sons General Store as you experience the beauty of this illuminated winter wonderland!

November 16, 1895

Arnold incorporated November 16

15th Annual Greater Pittsburgh Arts & Crafts Holiday Spectacular

Monroeville Convention Center, 209 Mall Blvd. 724-863-4577 www.familyfestivals.com Adults $6.00 Senior Citizen (65+) $5.50 Child (6-12) $1.00 Under 6 FREE. Friday 10-9, Saturday 10-6, Sunday 10-5

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

This outstanding festival features over 260 indoor booths of arts & crafts in two huge exhibit halls! Whether you are looking for new decor items for the holidays or you are ready to start (or finish!) your Christmas shopping, you are sure to find something to suit your style and budget!

Exhibitors from more than a dozen states will be on hand to display the finest in decorating and gift giving for the upcoming holiday season.

Browse through a huge selection of holiday decorations & trees, appliqued & embellished clothing, decorative painting, photography, prints, personalized Christmas ornaments, handcrafted jewelry, pet treats & collars, soft sculpture, dolls, children’s toys, fabric decor, scented candles, lotions & soaps, and much, much more!!!

Sample and purchase delicious pre-packaged foods including gourmet dips & drink mixes, jellies & jams, maple syrup products, homebaked goods, kettle korn, cinnamon roasted almonds & nuts, candies, fudge and much, much more! Bring your camera and have your child’s photograph taken with Santa Claus. Clowns Glitter Dot & Dapper will be painting faces and creating balloon animals. Acres of free parking & shuttle!

November 17

House Tour

Saint Emma Monastery, 1001 Harvey Ave in Greensburg 724-834-3060, www.stemma.org, $20 per person

ClassicFilms November 18: The Great Gatsby December 14: It’s A Wonderful Life January 11: Dr. Zhivago February 8: The Princess Bride If you’re missing the State Theatre Classic Film Series, you’re missing out! Come see some of the greatest films ever made on the big screen at the State. Our series makes a great girls/ guys night out, the best date night and a great place to go with friends and family!

One Friday a Month at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM Adults $5, Seniors/Students $3 2012 - 2013 90th Anniversary Season Join us in celebrating all season long with a GREAT lineup of shows, classic films, concerts and events!

State Theatre Center for the Arts 27 East Main Street Uniontown, PA 15401 724-439-1360 www.statetheatre.info

Enjoy the beauty of this 1931 colonial revival style home decorated for Christmas by the Benedictine Nuns & volunteers, view our collection of creches from around the world in St. Benedict Room and enjoy some tasty hors d’oeuvres. 11am-2pm or 3pm-6pm November 17

That Guy with the Birds

Unity Township Building, Latrobe Unity Parks & Rec 724-537-4331 11 am. Registration Required.

The Exotic Parrot Program is a unique, educational and entertaining experience for the whole family! Learn interesting bird facts and meet John (a one man rescue operation for abused and neglected parrots) and his feathered friends for an up-close, hands-on experience. Join in the Music and Magic as you watch the parrots do incredible feats! Check out budwing.com to see a WQED video clip. Ages 13 and up.

November 18

St. Rose Fall Craft Show

St. Rose Catholic Church Hall, Hillview Ave in Latrobe, 724-532-1142 November 20, 1922

Boiler Firemen Strike

A strike by boiler firemen on this date in 1922 leaves the county courthouse and jail with no light or heat.

November 24, 1950

Record-breaking snow fall

On this date in 1950, a record-breaking snow fall begins which ends with 31 inches falling over the Thanksgiving weekend.

Come and enjoy the Annual Festival of Lights, held at the Braddock Trail Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, Warden Mansion. Tour the historic 125-year old Samuel Warden Mansion, view the beautifully decorated Christmas trees and choose your favorite tree, enjoy refreshments, and become eligible to win a daily door prize. Just be sure to visit our craft and raffle room.

Nov. 24th from 10am to Noon

Christmas Shoppe

American Legion in Latrobe. This vendor fair has the usual home party vendors along with some exciting new ones as well as some with faith themed jewelry, gifts and decor. Door prizes, donated by some of the vendors, will be given out throughout the morning. This is a fundraiser for the Latrobe Alliance Church Youth Group.

November 25

Santa’s Enchanted Workshop

The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org. Tickets $9, $8 In a trek to the North Pole, Stanley and his baby sister wind up in a dilapidated gas station run by a mysterious old man named Nick.

Could this be Santa’s Enchanted Workshop? A joyous holiday musical which features a singing robot, a dancing rag doll and one of the silliest villains you’ll ever see. Shows at 2 PM and 5 PM

November 24 and December 22 Sub Sale - Latrobe United Methodist Church 440 Main St at Ridge Ave in Latrobe, 724-537-8141

November 26, 1892

Cost is $6. Proceeds will benefit the 2012 Mission Trip to Zimbabwe.

Call the office to pre-order or just stop by and pick one up. Pickup times are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the church.

November 29

November 24-24, December 1-4

23rd Annual Festival of Lights

Samuel Warden Mansion, 200 S Church St in Mt. Pleasant 724-423-3275, http://mountpleasantfol15666.tripod.com/ 1:30 PM - 9 PM. $5 per person; children under age 12 admitted free

Every Story Begins At Home.

New Kensington incorporated Somerset Chamber Holiday Shopping Bazaar Somerset Country Club, 416 Plank Rd. 814-445-6431 www.somersetcountychamber.com, FREE

Shop at local businesses and non-profit organizations in one convenient location. Find the perfect gift for special customers, staff, friends and family. Shop from an array of local products and services or donate to a local non-profit in their name. Complimentary light refreshments will be available. 3-6 p.m.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 41

November 29

Tribute to the Platter Holiday Doo Wop Show

The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org. $48, $38, $28, Shows at 2 PM and 8 PM Latshaw Productions presents: Cornell Gunter’s Coasters, The Marvelettes, and Marshak’s Tribute to The Platter. Three legendary doo wop groups combine for a holiday Christmas Show with their biggest hits and sentimental holiday favorites, doo wop style.

November 30

Latshaw Productions presents Clint Black

The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org. 8 PM, $85, $75, $65, $55, $45 Prolific singer-songwriter Clint Black has long been heralded as one of Country music’s brightest stars. His many talents have taken him even further, as Black has transcended genres to become one of the most successful artists in all the music industry. To date, Black has written, recorded and released more than 100 songs, a benchmark in any artist’s career. An astounding one-third of these songs eligible for major single release also achieved hit song status at Country radio, while more than 20 million of his albums have been sold worldwide. While it’s wellknown that Black is an accomplished singer and guitarist, people may be surprised to learn that he is also proficient on drums and harmonica.

November 30

Forever Plaid - Plaid Tidings

Cresson Lake Playhouse, 279 Shapiro Rd in Loretto, 814-472-4333 www.cressonlake.com, Adults - $17 (includes processing fee) Student under 18 - $12.00 with Student I.D. It is a brand-new show that offers the best of FOREVER PLAID tied-up in a nifty package with a big Christmas bow on top! Filled with Christmas standards that have all been “Plaid-erized,” our boys are back to do their Christmas Special. At first they aren’t sure why they’ve returned, but a phone call from the heavenly Rosemary Clooney lets them know that they’re needed to put a little harmony into a discordant world.

Sprinkled among the Christmas offerings are audience favorites like their riotous three minute and eleven second version of “The Ed Sullivan Show” - this time featuring the Rockettes, the Chipmunks and The Vienna Boys Choir, and a Plaid Caribbean Christmas which puts the “Day-O” in Excelsis! This is one holiday treat that is truly “heaven-sent!”

FOREVER PALID-PLAID TIDINGS is under the direction of Mr. Jim Pollino of Ebensburg.

December 1

Christmas Open House at Christian W. Klay Winery 412 Fayette Springs Rd in Chalk Hill, 724-439-3424 www.cwklaywinery.com

Enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas homecoming. This event will feature popular carols, light holiday fare, Santa Claus and activities for kids of all ages! Becoming an area Christmas tradition, the winery’s open house provides a spirited beginning to the December countdown to Christmas.

Complimentary Admission. Noon - 3 pm.

December 1 - 9

Festival of Lights

Ligonier Town Hall Community Room, 120 E Main St 724-238-6818, www.ligonierhistoricalsociety.org December 1

Holly Jolly Christmas in Latrobe

Latrobe Art Center & Cafe, 819 Ligonier St, 724-537-7011 www.latrobeartcenter.org Latrobe Art Center Artists set up tables with jewelry, stained glass, clothing, paintings, woodwork, and pottery while the Neighborhood Cafe provides breakfast and lunch specials. Santa Claus is reads a story to the 42 - Winter/Holiday 2012

children and then is available for picture taking! Come one, come all, it’s a great day to find that perfect someone a unique Christmas gift.

December 1

Scottdale Historical Society’s Christmas Tour Louck’s Homestead, 527 N Chestnut St. 3-6 pm. 724-887-5045 scottdalehistoricalsociety@yahoo.com. $15 or 2 for $25

Start out the Christmas season in Scottdale. The Scottdale Historical Society is hosting our annual Christmas house tour from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm. The tour starts at the society’s “Loucks Homestead” at 527 N. Chestnut St..The circa 1830 home was later turned into a Victorian gem.

The Peter Loucks house is inspired to an 1880’s interior design. Light refreshments are served and a special theme is presented annually. The additional homes on the tour range in style, and showcase how our residents celebrate the holiday season.

December 1

Unwrapping the Faith Behind Our Christmas Decorations with the Benedictine Nuns Saint Emma’s Monastery, 1001 Harvey Ave in Greensburg www.stemma.org, 724-834-3060, 10 am - 3 pm

Enjoy our beautiful Christmas decorations while touring the Robertshaw Country House, Fatima Chapel, lounge, and St. Benedict Conference Room with talks by the Nuns explaining the faith meaning behind our popular traditional decorations. Delicious homecooked buffet-style meal served on Christmas-patterned tableware and real linens. Cost: $35/adults, $20 children under 18 December 5, 7, 11

Christmas Luncheons

Saint Emma’s Monastery, 1001 Harvey Ave in Greensburg www.stemma.org, 724-834-3060, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm, $30 per person Celebrate Jesus as the reason for the season by bringing your family, friends, co-workers, or church group to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal (served buffet-style), including fruit cup, main course, two side dishes, tossed salad, bread/rolls and butter, home-baked cookies, ice cream and coffee/tea. Christmas-patterned tableware, real linens and miniature nativities adorn our tables. Enjoy the numerous crèches from around the world. Tours of the Robertshaw Country House B&B are available before or after dinner.

December 7

Derry Christmas Celebration Join DARCee at Mossback Park in downtown Derry from 5:30pm7:30pm on Friday, December 7th as we welcome the holiday season.

Our Christmas Celebration will include a parade featuring the DAHS Marching Band and Santa, music, food and drink concessions, a ride in Santa’s sleigh (donations accepted) for the children, and the lighting of the community Christmas tree.

December 7, 1949

Greensburg Coliseum destroyed by fire

from an article by James V. Steeley in the Winter 2012 issue of the Westmoreland History magazine: On a cold winter night in the early morning hours of December 7, 1949, the old Greensburg Coliseum was destroyed by fire. The hard-to-control firre destroyed part of the old wooden dance floor, bringing an end to the old central Westmoreland County landmark and signaling the end of an era.

Until its destruction by fire . . . the Colesium in Greensburg was unrivaled as a venue for big events that included automobile and farm equipment shows, commercial exhibits, home and garden shows, grand banquets and conventions, sporting exhibitions, and a farm LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

produce market. But, from the late 1920s through the end of World War II, the old Greensburg landmark was arguably the place in Westmoreland County where the nation’s best dance bands of the Big Band Era played to packed houses. . . . in the end, the burned-out Coliseum was razed, and the lot was eventually bought by developers of the present-day Pershing Sqare high rise apartments for senior citizens.”

December 8-9

The Nutcracker Ballet

The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org. $33, $25, $23, $17, $10 Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra teams up with Laurel Ballet for this enchanting production of Nutcracker in three performances.

December 8 - 2 PM & 7 PM and December 9 - 2 PM December 10, 1785

Newtown, now Greensburg, was selected as the permanent county seat for Westmoreland County.

from John Boucher’s History of Westmoreland County, Vol. 1, Chap. 13: “Shortly after their appointment the commission viewed the territory. and met at Hannastown to deliberate.

On November 1st and 2nd they came to no agreement, and in December met again at Newtown (or Greensburg) and the three of them living south of the Forbes road decided on Newtown as the county seat. They were Benjamin Davis, Michael Rugh and Hugh Martin. John Shields and John Pomeroy, living north of the Forbes road favored Hannastown, and, dissenting from the decision, refused to act further with the trustees or commissioners. But by the terms of the act three of them had the necessary power, and on December 10, 1785, they entered into an agreement with Christopher Truby and William Jack, to which Ludwig Otterman afterwards subscribed, to sell to them, in trust for the county two acres of land on which to erect public buildings. This day, December 10, 1785, is the Day upon which Greensburg was legally selected as the county seat of Westmoreland county.”

December 11

Clay Aiken Joyful Noise 2012 Tour

The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org. $49 and $39, 7:30 pm Since coming to national attention on the second season of American Idol in 2003, Clay Aiken has evolved into a versatile and beloved popular entertainer. He has released five well-received albums, selling over 6 million units as of 2011.

Throughout his career, Aiken has continuously been a supportive activist on behalf of children. As he has often explained, “My music career has allowed me to do the same thing I was doing before—work with kids. It has just given me a bigger stage, so I can enact change on a grander scale.” Clay has been an ambassador for UNICEF since 2004; the same year he started the National Inclusion Project with co-founder Diane Bubel. NIP supports the integration of children with disabilities into the same environments as their non-disabled peers.

He has toured nine times, written a New York Times bestselling memoir, sold more than six million albums, produced and hosted television programs, starred on Broadway, and devoted considerable energy and resources to improving the lives of children all over the world.

December 11

Holiday Tour

St. Vincent Basilica and Gristmill, 362 Sand Hill Rd in Latrobe 724-532-1935, www.westmorelandhistory.org Take a special holiday tour of St. Vincent Basilica and Grist Mill. Coffee and cookies at the Grist Mill. Charge for this off-site holiday event is $5 for members and $7 for others. Advance reservations, please.

December 14-16

Annie

The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org. Adults $22 and $18, students $18 and $15 The lovable orphan with the heart of gold is brought to life in this awardwinning musical that is the perfect way to get you into the Christmas spirit! Friday & Saturday: 7:30 PM, Sunday: 2 PM December 15

Melissa Manchester, JOY

State Theatre Center for the Arts , 27 East Main Street in Uniontown 724-439-1360, www.statetheatre.info, $36, $32, $28. 8 PM With hits like “Midnight Blue”, “Through the Eyes of Love”, “Don’t Cry Out Loud” and the Grammy Winning, “You Should Hear How She Talks About You”, Melissa Manchester topped the charts and showcased her incredible talent! This Christmas the State Theatre presents her holiday show featuring traditional favorites from the album, Joy, including “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and “White Christmas”, along with “When You Wish Upon a Star” and “Christmas Time Is Here”, taken from the classic animated special A Charlie Brown Christmas.

December 19

Latshaw Pops Orchestra Christmas Spectacular

The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org. $35, $30 and $25. 2 pm and 8 pm The Christmas tradition continues with the Latshaw Pops Orchestra, singers and dancers in a holiday variety show! Celebrate the Christmas season with heartwarming Christmas songs and carols, beautiful costumes and a special visit from Santa, too!

Every Story Begins At Home.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 43

December 20

The Benny Benack Band

Westmoreland Jazz Society at Westmoreland Museum of American Art 7:30 pm. $10 for members, $15 for nonmembers, $3 for students under 21 The Benny Benack Band prides itself in achieving a level of versatility that defies conventional labels. From Big Band Swing to Dixieland Jazz, and from Motown to the hits of today, The Benny Benack Band gives each its own unique contemporary feel.

Benny Benack left his mark on the music world as a performer, bandlSeader and teacher. Now his son Benny Jr., and a new generation in Benny Benack III, carry on the tradition. In fact, many of the band members grew up together from the time they were kids, and when they get together to jam, the youthful exuberance is infectious. They truly have a great time playing together and take personal pride and pleasure in seeing to it that their audiences join in the fun. www.bannybenack.com

a soloist, with the Eric Barchiesi Combo, the Tommy Phillips “Tophatters and as the keyboardist for the Powerplay band, an eightpiece local event band. From Bach to Basie, Sondheim to Springsteen, Eric is at home and relaxed “at the piano.

Eric resides in Penn Township with his wife, Dawn, and their sons, Dominic and Dante.

December 22

Home for the Holidays Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra

The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org. $10-$39.

Guest conductor Matthew Kraemer leads our annual holiday concert, highlighting choral and instrumental favorites and featuring the All-Star Choir of Westmoreland County. Marc Tourre, Director.

December 23, 1908

The Westmoreland County Historical Society was founded.

The Westmoreland County Historical Society is the oldest and fastest growing historical society in Westmoreland County. Founded in 1908, the Society is an educational organization dedicated to acquiring and managing resources related to the history of Westmoreland County, and to use these resources to encourage a diverse audience to make connections to the past, develop an understanding of the present, and provide direction for the future.

December 29

Christmas Open House (Visit and Vespers) Saint Emma Monastery, 1001 Harvey St in Greensburg 724-834-3060, www.stemma.org 1pm: Enjoy Nativity Displays and Refreshments 3:30pm: Christmas Caroling 4pm: Sung Vespers with Benedictine Nuns December 31

New Year’s Eve Party

Ramada Inn in Ligonier, 216 W Loyalhanna St, 724-238-9545

December 20

Eric Barchiesi

Westmoreland Jazz Society at Westmoreland Museum of American Art 7:30 pm. $10 for members, $15 for nonmembers, $3 for students under 21 Eric Barchiesi, a native of Crabtree, PA, began his musical journey with his first piano lesson on his 7th birthday. After graduating from Greater Latrobe Senior High School, he pursued his love of music at Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, earning a Bachelor of Music Education in 1986. At IU, Eric studied piano with Edward Auer and jazz in an ensemble directed by jazz trumpeter, Dominic Spera. Following his graduation from IU, Eric attended the University Of Pittsburgh School of Law, earning a Juris Doctor degree. Since 1989, Eric has been a full-time practicing lawyer in Pittsburgh.

Musically, Eric has maintained a diverse and active presence in the Pittsburgh/Greensburg music scene for decades. After winning several Lion’s Club Talent Shows as a young teen, Eric began his big band experience at age 15 with the Frankie Carroll Orchestra. During his summer college breaks, Eric played piano in the tavern at the former Mt. View Inn. Beginning in ’90s, Eric was the house pianist at Chestnut Ridge Inn. Along with being a solo artist, Eric has also musically directed and played keyboard for productions with local theater groups and schools. For many years, he served as liturgical music director/organist for several area churches. Eric continues to play as a sideman with a number of local big bands and jazz combos. Currently, Eric performs as 44 - Winter/Holiday 2012

Don’t miss a great New Year’s Eve party!

Cocktail Reception (7PM-7:30PM) - open bar & hors d’oeuvres New Year’s Eve Dinner (7:30PM);Open Bar (8:30PM-midnight) DJ Entertainment & Dancing; New Year’s Eve Celebration; Hats & Noise Makers; Champagne Toast at Midnight. Call to make your reservation today!

Party Package: $162 per couple (taxes included) Lodging starting at $99 per night with free hot breakfast included.

December 31

New Year’s Eve at Ligonier Tavern

139 W Main St in Ligonier, 724-238-7788, www.ligoniertavern.com COME CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S WITH US! ... Stuffed loin of Pork with roasted tomatoes and spinach with mushroom demi-glace. Served with creamy goat cheese polenta. Surf and Turf Grilled filet mignon with sauce béarnaise and Lobster tail served with rosti potatoes, broccoli rabe and carrots. Crab stuffed Shrimp With wild rice pilaf, broccoli rabe and carrots. Gratin of Scallop and Shrimp Newberg. FOR RESERVATIONS CALL 724-238-7788 DINNER SERVED 4-10PM January 6, 1777

Pennsylvania’s 8th Regiment leaves to join Washington in New Jersey January 6, 1787

Hugh Henry Brackenridge Letter to the Gazette LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Hugh Henry Brackenridge, who was then a member of the legislature from this county, and a resident of Pittsburgh, on December x6, 1786, wrote the following letter, which was published in the Gazette of January 6, 1787: “A bill is published superceding the powers of the Trustees for building a Court House and jail in Greensburg. The object is to prevent any further expenditure of public money in public buildings at that place, inasmuch as the Court House and jail already erected are sufficient, at least for a number of years. This appeared to us, the Representatives from Westmoreland, to be sufficient for the present. It must remain with future time to determine whether the seat of justice shall be removed or a new county erected on the Kiskiminetas. The last, I believe, will be deemed most eligible.”

January 7, 1787

Court held in Greensburg for the first time.

January 10,1887

Latrobe Electric Light Company incorporated. One of its founders was A.W. Mellon.

January 18-20, 2013

18th Annual Fire & Ice Festival in Somerset www.somersetincpa.com, 814-443-1748 January 19, 2013

Ligonier Ice Festival

Ligonier Valley Chamber of Commece, 120 E Main St www.visitligonier.com, 724-238-4200 January 22, 1895

Westmoreland Hospital Association founded.

January 25-26

Jimmy Buffett Weekend

Ligonier Country Inn, 1376 Route 30 in Laughlintown. 724-238-3651 www.ligoniercountryinn.com It’s time to get rid of the winter time blues and celebrate with some Jimmy Buffet music. Live entertainment both nights. Room packages available. Call Ligonier Country Inn for pricing and availability - 724238-3651; $10 cover charge on Saturday.

February 2, 1787

Arthur St. Clair elected President of Continental Congress.

February 2

Beethoven’s Pastorale

Palace Theater, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, 724-836-8000 www.palacetheatre.org, Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra February 5, 1874

Scottdale incorporated.

February 7, 1821

William Jack died.

He was sheriff in 1772 when Hanna’s Town was attacked. He was also one of three donors of the Courthouse property.

February 9, 1799

Greensburg incorporated.

February 10, 1787

Rebuttal letter to to Mr. Brackenridge in the Gazette On February 10, 1787, the following letter appeared, written by one who signed himself “A Friend of Westmoreland”: “We find by Mr. Brackenridge’s late publication that the seat of justice in this county yet remains an object of envy in our Legislature. as ‘a bill is published superceding the powers of the Trustees for building a Court House and jail in Greensburg: I wonder, when we shall see an end of the cavilings on this subject and the succession of ridiculous laws occasioned thereby. By the first law we find a number of Trustees appointed for erecting a Court House and prison. etc.

By the second law we find their proceedings rejected, though perfectly legal, and the former repealed, and another set of Trustees appointed, with more extensive and conclusive power. A third law approves and confirms their proceedings, and a fourth law supercedes their powers in the midst of the duty assigned them: and to carry the farce a little farther. I think the fifth law ought to amount to the total annihilation of the county.”

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS:

January 26, 2013

Get the Led Out: The American Led Zeppelin

Westmoreland Cultural Trust, Palace Theater, 21 W Otterman St in Greensburg, www.palacetheatre.org, 724-836-8000 $30, $26, $22, 8 pm.

Get The Led Out is a group of professional musicians who are passionate about their love of the music of Led Zeppelin. It’s been their mission to bring the studio recordings of “the mighty Zep” to life on the big concert stage. This is not an impersonator act but rather a group of musicians who were fans first, striving to do justice to one of the greatest bands in rock history!

January 30, 1897

Please send complete event information, including a descriptive paragraph and artwork for consideration to: Calendar Editor, Laurel Mountain Post PO Box 332 Ligonier, PA 15658 calendar@laurelmountainpost.com

Building of the present Courthouse (Westmoreland’s fifth) authorized by the Court.

January 31, 1908

Present Courthouse dedicated.

Every Story Begins At Home.

Family-friendly, cultural, and nonprofit events take precedence when print space is a consideration.

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 45

Holiday SHIPPING

HAPPY

GET YOUR PACKAGES THERE SAFELY AND ON TIME FAMILY FEATURES

he holidays are usually pretty hectic, and the last thing you need is to stress over shipping your holiday gifts. With millions of packages moving across the country every day, knowing how to pack and when to ship your gifts can save you time and money, taking the hassle out of holiday shipping.

These tips from FedEx will help you ensure the safe and timely delivery of your holiday packages.

T

Smart Packing Tips n

n

n

n

n

n

n

Use new, sturdy boxes with the flaps intact, and do not reuse boxes. Select a box that is large enough to accommodate the proper thickness of cushioning material.

Wrap items individually with cushioning material and center them in cartons away from other items and away from the sides, corners, top and bottom of the box.

Choose cushioning of appropriate density and thickness, and use enough to fill all void spaces in your shipping container. Position at least two inches of bubble wrap, peanuts or other packing materials on all sides, and use a heavy duty tape designed for packaging.

Double-box fragile items with 3 inches of cushioning in and around the smaller box.

For odd- or irregular-shaped Holiday Shipping items, be sure to wrap and tape Deadlines all sharp edges or protrusions.

For delivery in time for Position the shipping label Christmas, the last day to squarely on the most visible side ship with FedEx Ground is of the container away from any Monday, December 17, and folds or seams. Provide complete the last day to ship with sender and recipient addresses, FedEx Express is Saturday, including zip codes and telephone December 22. numbers. Make sure the label is For more tips, or to create properly and securely attached. and print a shipping label, FedEx also recommends placing visit www.fedex.com. an extra label, business card or letterhead with the shipper’s address and phone number inside the package before sealing it.

Apply at least three strips of packing tape (no duct or masking tape) to the top and bottom sides of the container using the H taping method.

Don’t be afraid to ask for packing and shipping help. There are more than 1,800 FedEx Office Print & Ship Center locations around the world that provide a variety of packing and shipping supplies and services.

Smart Shipping Tips n

n

Send your gifts ahead. If you are traveling this holiday season, take the hassle out of carrying wrapped packages with you by sending your gifts ahead of your arrival.

Ship early in the season. This will allow you to avoid the lines and provide you with a greater selection of shipping service options. Take advantage of FedEx Ground, FedEx Home Delivery, and FedEx Express Saver and 2Day services to save money on your shipments.

Trees for Troops In conjunction with the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, FedEx donates transportation and logistics services to help deliver Christmas trees to activated service members and their families. Since the program began in 2005, Trees for Troops has delivered more than 100,000 trees to troops stationed at more than 60 bases around theworld.

Here’s how you can help spread holiday cheer to military families: Make a Donation Make a tax-deductible contribution to the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation

46 - Winter/Holiday 2012

Recipe for a Safe and Crumble-Free Sweet Treat If you’re sending cookies or other sweet holiday gifts, make sure you pack them properly so that they don’t arrive as crumbs.

Ingredients: 1 sturdy container for the baked goods 1 box of wax paper 1 roll of tape 1 sturdy corrugated cardboard box Bubble wrap, Styrofoam peanuts, plastic grocery bags or other packing materials Directions: Place the baked goods in a sturdy container lined with plastic wrap or wax paper. Layer wax paper between the baked goods, using crumpled paper to fill in any void spaces.

Secure the lid of the container to the body with tape, to keep it from accidentally popping off.

Place the container in a sturdy corrugated cardboard box, and use packing materials to cushion the container tightly in place.

Shake the box — if you can feel or hear any movement, add more cushioning.

Baker’s Notes: n Don’t forget to include a card or sheet of paper with the shipper and/or recipient’s contact info on it. In case the shipping document gets lost, this information will help get the package to its destination. n When thinking about gift ideas, small or sturdier items like sugar cookies, biscotti and popcorn are some of the sweet treats that will ship the best. n Be sure to send your cookies early in the week so that they are still fresh when they arrive, as shipping may take up to 3 to 5 business days. n For more tips and affordable shipping ideas, please visit www.fedex.com/us/holiday.

Buy a Tree Find a Trees for Troops Weekend location or a tree farm near you. You can purchase a tree to donate to Trees for Troops.

Buy an Ornament or T-shirt • Purchase a commemorative pewter ornament, with proceeds benefiting the Trees for Troops.

• The Christmas SPIRIT Foundation partners with Greater than Goods to sell tshirts and sweat shirts. For every Trees for Troops item you purchase, $5 will be donated to CSF for the Trees for Troops program.

Learn more at www.treesfortroops.org

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

SOMERSET HISTORICAL CENTER SOMERSET COUNTY, PA

LAUREL MOUNTAIN

POST

Looking for products or services mentioned in one of our articles?

SHOP OUR GENERAL STORE

Visit our website and click on the General Store tab.

We’ve assembled links to every topic available online.

Some shops (like Amazon.com) support our magazine with a percentage of all sales – money we use to help fund our nonprofit matching grant program and pay for college internships.

www.LaurelMountainPost.com

The Somerset Historical Center preserves the rural lifestyles of southwestern Pennsylvania from the times of the earliest farmers

Authorized American-Standard Showroom

to the present day.

MACK M. DARR PLUMBING • HEATING • AIR CONDITIONING 320 W. MAIN ST. • LIGONIER 15658

SOMERSET HISTORICAL CENTER Pennsylvania’s Rural History Museum 10649 Somerset Pike, Somerset, PA 15501 (814) 445-6077 www.somersethistoricalcenter.org

Every Story Begins At Home.

724-238-5612 “A tradition for over 65 years!”

Licensed PA006886

HEATING • NEW CONSTRUCTION • REMODEL • WATER SYSTEMS ROUTINE SERVICE • RADIANT FLOOR HEAT • PLUMBING • REPAIR AIR CONDITIONING • NEW INSTALLATION • DUCT CLEANING

Winter/Holiday 2012 - 47

FAMILY FEATURES t can be challenging to eat right during the holidays, especially when the entire season seems filled with hearty meals, rich dishes and sweet treats. While it’s okay to moderately splurge before kick-starting the New Year with a healthy diet, it’s important to build momentum prior to January 1 by making smart dietary decisions over the holidays to ensure a healthy immune system during the winter months and increased energy for burning off those extra calories.

I

How Much Is a Cup?

n

To help you gauge how much produce you’re eating, here’s a quick look at what equals a cup:

n n n

1 small apple 1 large banana 1 medium grapefruit 1 large orange

n n n n n n

Drink to Your Health

n

A simple way to enjoy a healthy holiday season and New Year is to start each day with a nutrient-rich beverage packed with essential ingredients that produce increased energy levels, decreased cravings for seasonal junk foods, and greater overall wellness.

Whether it’s a nourishing morning pick-me-up or a mid-day energy and immunity boost, these nutritious and delicious recipes from NutriBullet will help ensure a healthy holiday season and put you on the right track to wellness in the New Year. The NutriBullet emulsifies healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables and grains into their most easily digestible state. Learn more at www.nutribullet.com.

1 medium potato 2 large or 3 medium plums 12 baby carrots 1 small wedge watermelon 8 large strawberries 2 large stalks celery 1 medium pear

Nutrient Know-How How many times have you read a list of nutrients on a food label, but not really known how each works to benefit your body? Following are some nutrient quick tips so you’re better informed during your next trip to the market.

Calcium — Essential for healthy teeth and bones; also important for muscle, nerve and some gland functions.

Iron — Necessary for healthy blood and normal cell functioning.

Magnesium — Needed for healthy bones; also involved in more than 300 enzymes.

Potassium — Helps maintain healthy blood pressure.

Vitamin A — Helps keep eyes and skin healthy; also helps protect against infections.

Vitamin C — Helps heal cuts and wounds; helps keep teeth and gums healthy, and helps iron absorption.

Folate (folic acid) — Helps the body form red blood cells.

Fiber — Helps reduce blood cholesterol and may lower risk of heart disease.

Sniffle Snatcher A tasty combination of vitamin Crich ingredients, cayenne to reduce congestion, and rosemary to reduce inflammation and soothe a sore throat.

1 cup kale 1 carrot 1 pear (cored and seeds removed) 1/2 cup cubed pineapple Dash of cayenne pepper Dash of fresh rosemary Add water to the max line of the large cup, and blast.

Sweet Apple Pumpkin Pie An antioxidant-rich, proteinpacked healthy dessert option so you can enjoy the flavors of the season guilt-free.

1/4 cup organic silken tofu or organic Greek-style yogurt 1/2 cup canned pumpkin or cooked fresh pumpkin 1/2 apple (cut, cored, and seeds removed) 1 tablespoon raw almond butter Pinch of cinnamon Pinch of ground cloves 1–2 teaspoons pure maple syrup 1 cup almond milk Add ingredients to large cup, and blast.

Flu Fighter

Cranbanana Blast

Vitamin C, antioxidants, and antibacterial ginger help keep the immune system at its peak during the winter months.

1/2 cup spinach 1/2 cup Swiss chard 1/4 cup parsley 1 kiwi (peeled) 1/2 lime (peeled) 1 banana (peeled) 1/2 bell pepper (seeds and stem removed) 1 inch fresh ginger root (peeled) Add water to the max line of the large cup, and blast.

Filled with heart-healthy nutrients and anti-viral properties, cranberries blend well with bananas and dates for a tart-sweet treat.

1 cup spinach 1 ripe banana (peeled) 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries 2 dates Add water or almond milk to the max line of the large cup, and blast.

Sweet Potato Pick-Me-Up Complex carbs from the sweet potato will provide sustained energy, and cinnamon keeps blood sugar balanced.

1/2 cooked sweet potato (skin on) 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Pinch cinnamon Pinch nutmeg 1 cup ice cubes Add almond or coconut milk to the max line of the large cup, and blast.

Sniffle Snatcher, Sweet Apple Pumpkin Pie, Flu Fighter, Cranbanana Blast, and Sweet Potato Pick-Me-Up

48 - Winter/Holiday 2012

LAUREL MOUNTAIN POST

Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

Welcome to the brand new SpringHill Suites Pittsburgh Latrobe hotel, offering a refreshing stay unlike any other. Our Pittsburgh-Latrobe area hotel is situated less than one mile from the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport.

Allow us to shuttle your family and friends in town for the holidays to their comfortable accommodations and take one more thing off of your to-do list. At the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Latrobe we offer a hot complimentary breakfast and the 19th Hole Lounge is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. With a 24 hour market in the lobby you will never have to worry about your guests, we will take care of everything! You can expect bright, comfortable suites with a separate living area including mini-fridge and microwave. Our stylish design offers a revitalizing stay with amenities such as free Wi-Fi and flat screen TVs. The welcoming lobby and lounge area is perfect for family and friends catching up and spending time together and the children will be sure to love the outdoor fire pit on the patio. The hotel will be beautifully decorated for the holiday season so everyone will feel right at home.

We understand how busy the holidays are, let us make your guests feel comfortable and everyone can relax and enjoy this magical time of the year.

Among Latrobe hotels, SpringHill Suites will far exceed your expectations!�

Please call the Sales Office for group rates 724-879-0059.

Call today to make reservations! 1-800-971-3981.

SPRINGHILL SUITES BY MARRIOTT Pittsburgh Latrobe 115 Arnold Palmer Drive Latrobe , PA 15650 Phone: 724-537-7800

Space

Light

InspirationÂŽ

SpringHillSuitesLatr LatrobeP obePA Latr obeP A.com

Call us today to book our Family Friendly New Y ears Eve Package! Fun for kids of all ages!

Years

IN 1946 OUR CHRISTMAS SEAL ADDED CLEAR SKIES TO AMERICA’S CHRISTMAS WISHES.

For more than 100 years, Christmas Seals® have helped support the American Lung Association’s fight for healthy lungs and healthy air.

Celebrate another year by making Christmas Seals part of your holiday tradition.

Go to ChristmasSeals.org to learn more.

ChristmasSeals.org